Putting A Tube On Your Boat: A Step-By-Step Guide

Water tubing is a fun activity for all ages, but it's important to remember that safety comes first. Before you start tubing, you need to ensure you have the proper equipment, such as life jackets, a tow rope, a towable tube, and, of course, a boat. It's also crucial to designate a driver and a spotter. The tow rope should be attached to the tube and tied off to the stern (back) of the boat, with safety hand signals agreed upon for communication between the spotter and those riding the tube.

When choosing a tow rope, consider the material, weight capacity, length, and colour. Polypropylene is a popular choice as it's lightweight, floats, affordable, and resists rot and mildew. However, nylon is more durable and provides better shock absorption. The length of the rope is critical, as one that's too long will cause the tube to whip side to side, while a rope that's too short will put riders too close to the propeller. The Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA) recommends a length of between 50 and 65 feet.

The attachment point for the tow rope is also important. While some boats have a tow bar or ski pylon, others may require you to secure the tube to the transom eye. Transom tie-down eyes can be used but ensure they can handle the weight. Cleats are not recommended as they are not designed to withstand the force of towing and could rip out, causing damage and potential injury.

By following these steps and prioritising safety, you'll be able to enjoy a thrilling tubing experience with family and friends.

Ensure you have the proper equipment

To ensure you have the proper equipment for tubing behind a boat, you will need a life jacket, tow rope, towable tube, and a boat.

The life jacket is essential for safety, and it is recommended to choose one with bright colours for children, as this makes them easier to spot in the water. The tow rope should be made from a strong material such as woven polyethylene, which is buoyant, waterproof, and resistant to degradation. It should be around 60 feet in length and be rated to withstand thousands of pounds of force. The tube itself should be a proper boat tube made from reinforced PVC with proper anchor points.

In terms of the boat, it is important to have a suitable attachment point for the tow rope. While some boats have a dedicated tow bar or ski pylon, others may use transom eyes or tie-downs. It is recommended to attach the tow rope to a point no higher than 70cm (2ft) off the floor to avoid the tube bouncing or becoming airborne.

Additionally, it is important to designate a driver and a spotter for the boat. The driver needs to be aware of their surroundings and maintain a safe distance from shorelines, docks, trees, and other boats. The spotter will assist with communication and safety, using hand signals to coordinate with those riding the tube.

Designate a driver and a spotter

When preparing to go tubing, it is essential to designate a driver and a spotter. The driver must be aware of their surroundings, including any shorelines, docks, trees, and other boats. They are responsible for ensuring a smooth ride by minimising the effects of the rope getting submerged in the boat's wake, which can cause the rider to be jerked around and bounced off the tube.

The spotter is also crucial to the safety of the riders. They should be seated in the backward-facing passenger seat and act as the driver's second pair of eyes. It is important for the spotter and riders to review safety hand signals to communicate effectively. The spotter should also be mindful of the tow rope, ensuring it does not hit or injure any passengers in the boat.

The driver and spotter should work together to ensure the safety of everyone involved. They should be aware of the number of riders and their weights to select the appropriate rope with the right tensile strength. Additionally, they should confirm that the tube is securely attached to the boat and that all riders are wearing properly fitted life jackets.

By designating a driver and a spotter and ensuring they are well-informed and prepared, you can create a safe and enjoyable tubing experience for everyone.

Attach the tow rope to the tube

When attaching the tow rope to the tube, it is important to ensure that you have the right equipment. The tow rope should have a suitable tensile strength based on the total weight of the riders and the tube, as well as the recommended number of riders for the tube. For example, for a single rider below 170 lbs, use a rope with a tensile strength of 1500 lbs. For 5-6 riders with a weight between 810 and 1020 lbs, a tow rope with a tensile strength of 6100 lbs is recommended.

The length of the tow rope is also crucial. If it is too long, the tube will be whipped from side to side, and if it is too short, the riders will be too close to the propeller and will inhale carbon monoxide from the boat. The ideal length for a tow rope is between 50 and 65 feet.

When attaching the tow rope to the tube, you can use a quick connect device. First, place the quick connect on the tube, and then secure the tow rope to the quick connect. Make sure that the attachment point is not above 70 cm (2 ft) off the floor to avoid putting the riders and the boat at risk.

Another option is to use a harness bridle, which will provide a smoother ride. When using a harness, the tow rope should be shorter, between 50 and 60 feet.

It is important to remember that tubing puts a lot of stress on the boat, so the attachment point should be strong enough to support the weight of the tube and the riders. Additionally, the tow rope should be made of a material that is durable and buoyant, such as woven polyethylene or polypropylene.

Tie off the rope to the stern of the boat

To tie off the rope to the stern of the boat, you can use the transom tie-down eyes, which are strong enough to support the weight of the towable with riders on it. However, before using these transom tie-down eyes, check with the boat manufacturer that they can withstand the towing force specified on the tube's label. Some tubes can generate a large amount of drag, so it is important to ensure that the attachment point can handle the force.

Another option is to use a harness bridle connected to the starboard transom rings. This method provides a smoother ride on the water. When towing with a harness, a shorter tow rope of 50, 55, or 60 feet is necessary.

Additionally, it is important to select the right tow rope for your boat and tube. Consider the weight of the riders, the tube, and the rope's tensile strength. The Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA) recommends choosing a rope with a tensile strength based on the total weight of the riders and the towable, as well as the recommended number of riders for the tube. For example, for a single rider below 170 lbs, use a rope with a tensile strength of 1500 lbs.

It is also crucial to ensure that the attachment point is not too high, as this can cause the tube to bounce or become airborne. The recommended height for the attachment point is no more than 70 cm (2 ft) off the floor.

By following these guidelines, you can securely tie off the rope to the stern of the boat, ensuring a safe and enjoyable tubing experience.

Review safety hand signals

When preparing to go tubing, it is important to review safety hand signals to ensure that everyone involved is on the same page. This is crucial for maintaining effective communication between the driver, spotter, and riders, especially when the noise and speed of the boat make verbal communication difficult. Here are some essential hand signals to know before you begin:

Thumbs Up: This signal means "Go faster." When giving this signal, ensure you have a strong grip on the tube handles, as the boat's increased speed can cause you to lose your balance and fall off the tube.

Thumbs Down: This signal means "Slow down." It is important to use this signal when the ride feels too intense, especially if there are younger or less experienced riders on the tube.

Pointing Forward: If you want to go straight, point your finger forward. This signal indicates to the driver that you are ready to take on the waves and ride in a straight line. Remember to keep your eyes open for any obstacles in the water.

Pointing Left or Right: When you want to turn in a particular direction, point your finger in that direction. This signal is crucial when approaching curves or obstacles in the water, helping the driver navigate safely.

Hand-on-Head: Placing your hand on your head signals "Stop." Use this signal if something goes wrong or you need to take a break. It can also be used as an emergency signal if someone falls off the tube and needs to be picked up.

Tapping Head: If you need to take a break but are still feeling okay, tap your head with your hand. This signal indicates to the driver that you want them to slow down and give you a moment to rest.

Thumbs Across Chest: This signal means "Cut the engine." It is important to use this signal if someone falls off the tube, as it will make it easier for the driver to retrieve them from the water.

Additionally, it is essential to establish clear hand signals with your tubing crew before starting. Here are some other general safety tips to keep in mind:

• Always wear a properly fitted life jacket or personal flotation device. This is especially important for children, who are more prone to falling off tubes. Bright colors are recommended for increased visibility in the water.
• The driver should exercise caution and maintain 360-degree awareness. Be mindful that the tube swings out wide in the opposite direction of the turn, and keep a safe distance from shorelines, docks, trees, and other boats.
• Choose the appropriate tow rope for tubing based on its tensile strength, length, and color. The rope should be at least 50 feet long and not exceed 65 feet. A bright-colored rope made of polypropylene or nylon is recommended for visibility, durability, and buoyancy.
• Ensure the rope is attached to a suitable towing point on the boat, such as a ski pylon no more than 70 cm (2 ft) off the floor or a center-mounted tow eye. Avoid attaching the rope to the tower or pylons in the middle of the boat, as this can be unsafe for passengers.
• If using a harness bridle, use a shorter tow rope of 50, 55, or 60 feet.

Frequently asked questions