Best Inflatable Dock
Whether you're looking to add a bit more real estate to your boat or find a way to soak up some sun on the lake without having to get wet, you might consider purchasing an inflatable dock. Of course, there are plenty of inflatable floating dock products on the market today, though many of them use weak materials that'll barely get you through the summer.
Luckily, we've done our inflatable dock research.
So come dive in with us as we explore 5 of the best inflatable docks on the market today!
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Quick Answer :
#1 Best Overall - ISLAND HOPPER: 15 Foot Inflatable Water Platform→
#2 Most Durable - RIFTSUN: Floating Mat And Swim Dock→
#3 Best Luxury Choice - INFLATABLE SPORT BOATS: Yacht Dock, Floating Platform→
#4 Best Yoga Platform - BLUE WATER TOYS: Four Person Swim Deck With Non-Slip Surface→
#5 Best Budget Platform - HAPPYBUY: Inflatable Floating Dock for 3-5 People→
With 15' of length to play around on, the Island Hopper 15' Inflatable Floating Dock is one of the best inflatable docks for those looking to party!
So whether you're anchoring it down on the lake's surface to soak in some sun or extending out your pontoon boat, there are plenty of uses for this massive water platform.
Not many inflatable docks can hold weight quite like this one. With over 2,000 lbs of capacity, it is one of the strongest docks out there.
Pair that with the durable EVA foam material, and you'll find yourself an ultra-durable swim platform that can be used season after season.
We dig the fact that the surface is non-slip, allowing you to play around and potentially get your morning yoga routine in without sliding all over the place.
You can even set up a little hangout spot with chairs and coolers thanks to the 24 web loops, six carrying handles, and 11 stainless steel D rings.
We were surprised by how easy this inflatable floating dock was to set up.
It comes with a 15PSI portable power inflator if you have an outlet available, or you can choose to use the double-action hand pump to inflate it by hand! Nothing wrong with getting a little workout in before a long day of lying in the sun!
#2 DRIFTSUN: Floating Mat And Swim Dock - Most Durable
Suppose you're planning on getting some activities done with your inflatable boating dock, such as performing maintenance on the exterior of your boat or lying down on your yoga mat for your morning flow.
In that case, the Driftsun Floating Dock is a wonderful choice. Not only does this inflatable dock look great, but it can be used for just about anything, thanks to its durability. The Driftsun Inflatable Dock uses a layered PVC drop-stitch with UV-resistant qualities.
At six inches thick, this thing is near indestructible, perfect for those wild days on the water!But, of course, you should note that it only holds up to 600 pounds, so we wouldn't recommend it as a party vessel.
Use the included D-rings to hook up your cooler, chairs, and other accessories, and easily transport it back and forth from the water using the comfortable neoprene handles. Similar to the Island Hopper, this inflatable dock inflates with ease using a dual valve design.
#3 INFLATABLE SPORT BOATS: Yacht Dock, Floating Platform - Best Luxury Choice
With a unique teak wood EVA foam design on the top, the Inflatable Sport Boats Inflatable Floating Dock is one of the most luxurious-looking inflatable docks on the market today.
Not only does this inflatable dock make you feel like the king of the lake, but its ultra-durable, heavy-duty PVC design will allow you to use it for multiple seasons to come without having to make constant repairs.
At 10' x 6', you have enough room for about five people before it starts getting uncomfortable.
With a max load of 1,500 pounds, you can even store some of your favorite accessories, such as a cooler or chairs.
Beyond its size and durability, this luxury inflatable floating dock comes with various accessories, including a storage strap, 2 PVC repair patches, 10 D-rings, two heavy-duty carrying handles, and a double-action hand pump with a PSI gauge for easy inflation.
If you have a dog or kids and need an inflatable floating dock with added durability, there is no better choice.
#4 BLUE WATER TOYS: Four Person Swim Deck With Non-Slip Surface - Best Yoga Platform
With non-slip, military-grade material, this inflatable floating dock is one of the best choices for those looking to do yoga on the water. The pads use UV-protected, non-slip material, so not only do you not have to worry about sliding around, but you also don't need to worry about sun damage after a week on the lake.
The Blue Water Toys Inflatable Dock is incredibly strong thanks to its Blue Guard Protection. As a result, you'll never have to stress about cracks, dings, or deck damage.
One unique thing we love about the Blue Water Toys Inflatable Dock is the safety reflectors on all four sides of the platform. So if you're out at night or during days where visibility is low, these reflectors will keep you and your crew safe.
Thanks to the stainless steel D-rings, the company has made tying the floating dock to your boat or dock easier than ever.
There's even an anchor loop built into the bottom if you want to hang out away from the boat without floating miles offshore.
This particular dock comes with various accessories, including a patch kit, storage bag, and two-way bravo pump for easy inflation.
#5 HAPPYBUY: Inflatable Floating Dock for 3-5 People - Best Budget Platform
Don't feel like forking out quite so much on an inflatable dock platform?
Whether you don't spend much time on the water, don't plan on having huge groups of people get together, or you don't want to throw down quite as much money on a luxury swim platform, the HappyBuy Inflatable Swim Platform is a wonderful choice.
The beauty of this particular swim platform is its portability. At 6' x 5', it is perfect for around 3-5 people.
You can pack it up and store it away in the trunk of your car without having to put any seats down!
Don't underestimate this swim platform because of its smaller size.
With ultra-tough drop-stitch construction and 1.2mm PVC brushed cloth, this floating dock platform is surprisingly durable.
FAQ
How Long Do Inflatable Docks Last?
If you take care of your inflatable dock, it can last many years. The better you take care of it, the longer it will last. We always recommend cleaning your dock after each use to get rid of any dirt and grime. A simple spray down with your hose should do the trick. Make sure to dry your swim platform thoroughly and store it out of direct sunlight. If left out, UV rays can deteriorate the material.
Are Inflatable Docks Any Good?
If you're looking to create a swimming platform, anchor your other inflatable products, get your morning yoga routine in, or extend the deck of your boat to create a space to party or chill, an inflatable dock is a great choice. While these platforms aren't as sturdy as permanent wood docks, they are cheaper, much easier to assemble, and surprisingly sturdy.
Factors To Consider When Buying
Size / Weight/ Capacity
The first thing you'll need to consider is the size of your swim platform. Are you planning on having a huge party with your family and friends? Maybe you need some additional storage space to hold your coolers and chairs?
If so, you'll probably need a bigger dock.
On the other hand, you might just want to extend your boat and anchor your other inflatable products or sea vessels, such as kayaks, jet skis, or floaties. Maybe you just want a deck pad to do yoga on or soak in some sun? You might not even have enough storage space to store or transport a MASSIVE swim raft in your home or vehicle.
In these cases, you might consider getting a portable inflatable swim platform.
Make sure to consider the capacity and the size (both inflated and deflated).
Materials / Construction
All of the inflatable platform products on this product list use highly durable materials, such as drop-stitch military-grade PVC construction. If you're looking to lay down chairs or have your whole family on your inflatable platform, you're going to need strong material.
Look for an inflatable platform with a soft EVA deck, as these decks are made to provide traction, cushioning, and water whisking. Not only will you feel more stable on your inflatable platform, but you'll also enjoy heat resistance, which is excellent for hot days on the water!
Inflatability
What kind of inflation system does your inflatable platform come with?
Does it use a built-in air compressor for automatic inflation, or do you have to pump your inflatable platform up manually?
If you don't want to spend hours pumping up your inflatable deck pad, we recommend looking for those with easy inflation properties.
Accessories
The best inflatable docks come with accessories to enhance the swim platform experience, including:
Alternative fun water products you should also definitely check out are the best floating water mats, Costco floating Islands, and the best water trampolines.
