Water pad (Lily Pad) Float behind 18ft runabout

[arminius]

I've been trying to decide if it's worth trying a water pad behind my 18' runabout that doesn't have an extended swim platform. Anyone else have this setup and what should I consider? Attached are pic of back of boat and a generic pic of a Lily pad float for reference. My hopes would be I could drop anchor in 20ft of water and put that behind the boat for the kids (and myself) to play on.

 

[SDSeville]

That thing looks pretty cool. We do that with a big towable. Just make sure you let it out far enough (or to the side) to keep everyone away from the prop when they are jumping or falling off.

 

[arminius]

That thing looks pretty cool. We do that with a big towable. Just make sure you let it out far enough (or to the side) to keep everyone away from the prop when they are jumping or falling off.

Makes sense. Thinking I should add a swim platform off the back (like $1500) and should be a pretty nice setup.

 

[mjf55]

Thats a nice toy, and makes better sense as a swim platform as it keeps swimmers away from the engine/prop.
As with what SDSeville has said, we use a large towable or bumpers floating, but that lilly pad would be better.

 

[SDSeville]

I guess if you tie it off tightly to the built-in platform, it would keep people away from the prop.

 

[gm280]

What are all those little frogs doing on that Lily Pad... :lol:

 

[theBrownskull]

I use a splash pad and it works great. Some of them are strong enough that they can be towed. It depends upon the manufacturer. I got mine a Sams Club for $290.00. It is 6' x 16'. I roll it up and tie it to the rear of the boat while underway.

 

[Jmunk]

A friend has one and brings it with him usually. Everyone likes it, stays pretty busy while we are socializing.