Now that summer is here if you have access to a powerboat, a towable water tube, and a lake you are in for some fun. Powerboat tubing is a sport that can be enjoyed by virtually any member of the family who is old enough to feel comfortable in the water, can wear a life vest, and is not afraid of the water. Obviously babies should be excluded from powerboat tubing.
Powerboat tubing is basically pulling an inflatable tube behind a boat that has either an inboard or outboard engine. Since tubing on inflatables (another name for the tube) can be done at almost any speed, the horsepower of the boat isn’t critical. Runabouts, fishing boats, and pontoon boats can all be used. Obviously for those desiring a more exciting ride a higher horsepower engine is needed. A 16-foot aluminum runabout with a 65 horsepower outboard motor is capable of providing as exciting of a ride that you could want.
There are a wide variety of inflatables on the market. Tubes come in various sizes and shapes and may be designed to carry one to upwards of four people. Personally I feel the models that can carry up to two people offer a good compromise of agility and speed but are small enough for easy carrying and storage when not in use. An example of one such tube can be found at the link referenced in this article. When considering an inflatable look for rugged hand holds which get used virtually all the time. Look closely at the tow rope attachment for reinforced fabric and an easy-to-use connector. Often the inflatable will have sections of fabric covering the bulk of the inner inflated bladder plus neoprene where you lay or kneel. Neoprene is a good wear surface, provides good traction, and is comfortable to the touch.
In addition to the tube itself a sturdy towrope is critical to enjoying your time on the water. Typically the rope is 60 feet long and has sufficient tensile strength to handle the load you are going to pull. For a two-rider inflatable this might mean a 2,200 pound tensile strength two rope. As the capacity of the tube for passengers increases you should consider moving up to a 4,350 pound tensile strength rope. Equally critical equipment includes life vests suitably sized for each passenger and is USCG (US Coast Guard) approved.
The driver of the boat should have another responsible person as a spotter (required in most states) so that they can concentrate on the water ahead while the spotter focuses on the people being towed on the inflatable. As with any water sport you should stay away from the shore, other power and especially non-power boats, and all wildlife such as ducks or loons.
The driving part comes quickly once you get the feel of the responsiveness of the boat, engine, and tube combination. Various things such as running a figure 8 course will take the riders through the waves generated by your boat and provide for a challenging, fun filled ride. Long sweeping turns can propel the tube at high speeds outside the wake of the boat providing even more thrills. The driver, while using discretion, may cut through the wake of another powerboat but only when appropriate caution is exercised. Obviously driving the boat while under the influence is not recommended in any case.
Riders should remove glasses, and jewelry of all types. The riders have some control by moving back or forward on the tube and dragging one’s feet for rudimentary steering. By shifting your weight you can steer the tube in a fashion although the effects are limited. Once you try a powerboat tube ride you’ll develop an instinctive feel for handling the tube and getting the most exciting ride possible. Basically lay back and have a fun ride and hang on!
