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| Margaux Triumphs Over the Tube (Photo credit: CliffMuller) |
Water tubing is the perfect activity for those who are new
to water sports. Unlike some of the more advanced hobbies like water skiing,
water tubing requires only minimal skills. Instead of extreme agility and
balance, water tubers need only be able to hold on tight! It’s also fun and
exciting for lake goers of all ages. Tubing can be done at any speed, and can
even be enjoyed by the youngest children if you have a large tube that accommodates
more than one person. Tubing is also a great group activity as compared to
other popular water sports. Even if you only purchase individual tubes, it is
far easier to take turns while water tubing than other activities.
With new boat technology, it’s even easier to incorporate
tubing into group outings on the lake. Before, tubing was most exciting with a
fast speedboat that could zip the tubes along and create wakes that allowed for
jumps. Now, pontoon boats can get in on the tubing action without sacrificing
the speed and excitement. Pontoons from Manitou Pontoon Boats specifically boast V-Toon
design and Sport Handling Package technology that combine the party atmosphere
of a pontoon with the handling of a speedboat. These features are perfect for families
or groups who are interested in recreational water tubing.
Safety is essential when water tubing, as with any sport.
Life jackets should always be worn aboard a boat, but especially when tubing.
Riders often become temporarily separated from the boat when an unexpected bump
causes them to loosen their grip, so having a floatation device is essential.
Having the right equipment is also important. Make sure your tube is
appropriate for the weight you plan to have on it, and that the tow line used
is securely tied and in good condition. Finally, everyone needs to be alert and
aware of surroundings while tubing. Drivers should pay close attention to
distance from other boats in the water, tubers should keep a firm grip and not
be reckless, and others aboard the boat should keep an eye on the rider as
well.
Tubing is a popular and easy sport for boaters of all ages,
and is now even easier to enjoy as a family due to new pontoon technologies. As
with any water sport, safety is essential, but if everyone remains vigilant
tubing can add a lot of fun and excitement to water excursions.
