Decks

Watersport Decks - Resources & Information

Decks are inflatable platforms or rafts that are designed for lounging, sunbathing, or other leisure activities on the water. They can be similar to leisure floats, but they tend to be more stable and have more surface area, which makes them more comfortable for sitting or laying on.

PartsVu is proud to offer a full selection of Decks, as well as Watersports & Kayak Accessories. Choose from the following Decks: 

• Aqua Leisure 10' x 8' Inflatable Deck
• WOW Watersports Water Mat
• Aqua Leisure Yoga Mat
• And much more

Want to learn more about how to mount watersports accessories, tips to enjoy the water safely, and learn about the newest gear for your watercraft? PartsVu regularly publishes helpful how-to guides and other valuable information on our boating blog, PartsVu Xchange. On the PartsVu Xchange (and the FAQ below), you’ll find a wide range of relevant topics that every boater needs to know to have the best time on the water. 

Decks FAQ

What are decks in regards to inflatable watercraft?

Deck inflatables can come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be used for different activities such as lounging, sunbathing, fishing, yoga or even as a platform for water sports like wakeboarding and water skiing.

When purchasing an inflatable deck, some important factors to consider include:

• Size: Consider the size of the float and how much space you will need. Some decks can be quite large and take up a lot of room in the water, while others are more compact.
• Material: Look for decks made of durable, puncture-resistant materials such as heavy-duty PVC or nylon.
• Features: Some decks come with built-in cup holders, backrests, and even canopies for shade. Consider what features are important to you and what will make your deck more comfortable and enjoyable to use.
• Weight capacity: Make sure to choose a deck that can accommodate the weight of the people who will be using it.

When using an inflatable deck, it is important to properly inflate it before use and ensure that it is securely anchored or tied to a stationary object. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines, and never exceed the recommended weight capacity. It's also important to wear a personal floatation device (PFD) while using an inflatable deck, especially if you are not a strong swimmer.

How to pull a wakeboarder?

Pulling a wakeboarder behind a boat involves several steps:

1. Prepare the boat: Make sure the boat is properly maintained and in good working condition. Fill up the fuel tank and check the oil and other fluid levels.
2. Set the boat speed: Start the boat and slowly increase the speed to the desired level. A speed of around 20-22 mph is a good starting point for wakeboarding.
3. Position the rider: Have the rider put on their lifejacket and board, and then have them get into the water next to the boat. Have the rider hold onto the rope handle with both hands, with their arms extended in front of them.
4. Give the rider slack: Slowly give the rider slack in the rope by releasing it from the boat while they hold onto the handle. Once they have enough slack, they will start to be pulled behind the boat.
5. Pull the rider: Once the rider is up and moving, pull the rope handle towards you to give the rider a steady and consistent pull. Keep a steady speed and try to maintain a straight path.
6. Look out for signals: The rider may give you hand signals to indicate if they want to speed up or slow down, or if they need to stop. Be sure to watch for these signals and respond accordingly.
7. Be prepared for falls: The rider will likely fall at some point, so be prepared to stop the boat and pick them up.
8. Safety first: Always pay attention to the rider and keep a close eye on them. Make sure to use appropriate safety gear and make sure that everyone is wearing life jackets.

It's worth noting that wakeboarding is a sport that requires a certain level of skill, and it's important to start off slow and gradually increase the speed and difficulty. It's also important to get a professional instructions and practice in a controlled environment before attempting to pull a wakeboarder in open waters.

What's the most reliable wakeboard boat?

There are many different types of wakeboard boats available on the market, and the most reliable one will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user. However, some brands and models are generally considered to be more reliable than others.

Some of the most reliable wakeboard boat brands include:

• Mastercraft: Known for their high-quality construction and excellent performance, Mastercraft boats are considered to be some of the most reliable wakeboard boats on the market.
• Malibu: Malibu boats are known for their quality construction and innovative design, and are considered to be very reliable.
• Nautique: With a reputation for building high-quality boats that are designed for serious wakeboarding and watersports, Nautique is a reliable brand.
• Tige: Tige boats are known for their high-quality construction, innovative design, and excellent performance, making them a reliable choice for wakeboarding.
• Moomba: Known for building boats that are both affordable and high-quality, Moomba boats are a reliable choice for wakeboarding.

It's worth noting that these are just a few examples and there are other brands and models available on the market. It's important to research different options and consider factors such as price, features, and overall performance when choosing a wakeboard boat. It's also important to keep in mind that maintaining the boat properly, and regularly, is crucial for its longevity and reliability.

What is a water ski tower?

A water ski tower is a tall structure that is typically mounted on the back of a boat, and is used to tow water skiers and wakeboarders behind the boat. Also known as a “boat tow tower”, the tower is typically made from aluminum or other lightweight materials and is designed to be strong and durable. It typically features a platform at the top of the tower, which is used to hold the rope and handle for the rider.

The water ski tower is designed to provide a high point for the rider to jump off and also gives the rider more clearance above the water when they are being pulled by the boat. It also provides a better angle for the tow rope, which allows the rider to maintain a more efficient and comfortable position while being pulled behind the boat.

Water ski towers come in different designs and sizes, and some towers can be adjusted to accommodate different types of riding and different skill levels. They can also be equipped with different features such as speakers, lights, and cameras.

It's worth noting that a water ski tower is an accessory and can be added on most boats, not just wake boats, but it's important to check with the manufacturer or dealer to ensure that the tower is compatible with the specific boat, and that the boat can handle the added weight and stress of the tower before installing it.

What is a center console wake boat?

A center console wake boat is a type of boat that is designed specifically for wakeboarding and other watersports. It typically features a center console design, which means that the steering and controls are located in the center of the boat, rather than at the bow or stern.

The center console design allows for more open space on the boat, which is ideal for wakeboarding and other watersports. It also provides better visibility for the driver and allows for easy access to the controls.

Center console wake boats are typically equipped with a wakeboard tower, which is a tall structure that is used to tow the rider behind the boat. This tower is used to hold the rope and handle for the rider and provides a high point for the rider to jump off.

Center console wake boats are generally considered to be more versatile than other types of boats, as they are designed for a wide range of activities such as wakeboarding, wakesurfing, tubing, and even fishing. They come in different sizes, designs, and brands. They also come equipped with different features and technologies, such as ballast systems, which are used to adjust the shape of the wake and make it more suitable for wakeboarding.

It's worth noting that a center console wake boat is a serious investment, and it's important to research different options and consider factors such as price, features, and overall performance when choosing one. It's also important to have a valid boating license and follow safety guidelines when operating a center console wake boat.

Where can I learn how more about watersports?

In addition to learning about Decks, PartsVu has plenty of resources for everything you need to know about watersports, kayaks, and much more. Start with the following guides and be sure to use the search bar to find plenty of other useful guides to enjoy the water in confidence:

Kayak

• Beginner’s Guide to Outfitting a Fishing Kayak
• Kayak Fishing Florida’s Remote Waters
• Angler Armor—New Boat Theft Prevention Technology
• Different Types of Boats — A Comprehensive Guide - PartsVu

Inflatables

• 6 Boat Party Ideas You Have to Try 
• Top 16 Gift Ideas for Kids Who Love to Boat 
• 5 Ideas for Pontoon Boat Fun

Fishing

• Bass Fishing Tips from Bassmaster Elite Series Angler Garrett Paquette
• Part 2: How to Become a Better Bass Angler
• How a Texas Fisherman Made His Boat His Own - PartsVu
• Top Boating Destinations in Florida – 12 Places You Must Visit
• Toadfish Outfitters - Protecting What We Love

Safety

• PFD 101: Selecting the Right Life Jackets
• US Coast Guard Requirements: Boat Safety Equipment
• Boating Safety—Justin Borque and Matthew Bongi of Seachoice Discuss the Ins and Outs of Boating Safety Products
• Kids’ Life Jackets- How to Ensure a Proper Fit
• Boating Safety – Essential Guide to Gear & Technologies
• Offshore Boating Safety — Knowledge & Preparedness
• What Safety Precautions Should You Take When Hunting from a Boat?