Floating mats are very popular with boaters. Kids and adults love to lounge and play on these floating island extensions of their boats. If you are considering purchasing a floating lily pad for your boat, you may be wondering "How do I secure my floating mat?" or "How do I anchor my floating mat?"
Below you will find some helpful tips to manage your large new boating toy.
How Do I Choose a Floating Mat For My Boat?
There are many options for floating mats that provide hours of fun on the water. Here are a few things to consider when investing in a floating boat mat.
- Do I choose price over quality? Just like most products you get what you pay for... if you opt for the cheaper big box warehouse store version, be prepared to replace your foam floating island each season, or even mid-season. Many of the made in USA mats will cost a little more up front, but will last you many seasons. In the long run, you will save money and the environment by purchasing a better quality mat.
- You should consider, "What size floating mat is best for my boat?" Keep in mind when choosing a floating mat, you will have to carry it on your boat. There are many sizes and styles to choose from. Foam mat vs. inflatable mat? Inflatable mats are easily stored when not inflated, so if you have limited space, you may consider the inflatable option. When choosing a mat, always consider how much room you have in your boat and how you will store and carry your mat when it is not in use.
- When purchasing a mat you should consider how many people you want on your floating mat at one time. If you only want to have a few kids on your mat, you could purchase on of the smaller size mats.
How Do I Transport My Floating Boat Mat?
Before purchasing a floating mat, you should have a game plan of how you will transport the mat in your boat. We have heard of many boaters excited about purchasing their first floating foam mat, only to be frustrated when they try to transport it on their boat. Keep in mind, you can never roll the mat as tight as it was when it arrived in the box!
- Many boaters are great at DIY solutions. You many want to try to modify a kayak rack and attach it to your boat. The straps will easily secure to your boat.
- Some boats have room between the back gate and ladder. If your mat fits there, make sure you secure it with some bungee straps or other tie down straps. Unsecured mats can come loose and fly off the boat.
- There are also many mat rack options on the market as well. Most are designed to easily secure to your boat. This option can be a bit pricey, but you will get a clean look and secure place to store your mat up and out of the way.
How Do I Anchor My Floating Mat?
Before you let all the fun begin on your floating mat, you will need to find a safe way to tie off your mat. Unsecured mats will quickly float away from your boat, and ruin your fun. Below are some easy ways to tie off your mat.
- Use the provided cord and tie off to the side of your boat. There is typically only one tether on a mat, so additional tie offs are recommended. You can also use this tie off to tie up and connect mats together.
- Get some bungee lines with hooks and clip them to the grommets in the mat and on to the cleats on your boat. this will keep your mat secure and close to your boat.
- Get a light weight anchor or sandbag anchor and attach it to your mat. Drop anchor and enjoy hours of fun.
So when considering buying a floating mat, we suggest you do your research. Figure out what size is suitable for your boat. Make sure you know how you will carry it in your boat. Have a way to anchor your mat before you head out on the lake. Enjoy all the new fun memories you will make with your new water toy.
Happy Boating!
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