More fun on the water. Less stuff onboard.
Ask almost any boat owner what they wish they had more of, and there's a good chance they'll say storage.
Whether you're out on a small RIB, enjoying a day on a family motorboat or heading away on a larger yacht, finding space for all your boating equipment can be a challenge.
Towable inflatables, paddleboards, bodyboards, floating swim platforms, inflatable loungers and other water sports equipment all add to the experience. But they also take up valuable room.
So what are the best water toys for boats when space is limited? And is there a smarter way to make the most of the water without filling every locker?
Let's explore.
Why Storage Matters When Choosing Water Toys for Your Boat
Space is one of the biggest considerations when choosing boat accessories, particularly on smaller motorboats, sportsboats and rigid inflatable boats (RIBs).
Unlike equipment kept at home, everything you take onboard needs somewhere to live. That means thinking about more than just how much fun a water toy will be.
There's also its weight, packed size, setup time and how often you'll actually use it.
A large inflatable towable might be brilliant fun, but it may spend most of the day taking up cockpit space. A stand-up paddleboard offers freedom to explore, but isn't necessarily something everyone onboard wants to use.
The ideal boat water toy should earn its place.
And that's where compact, lightweight and multi-purpose water toys start to make sense.
1. Towable Inflatables: Great Fun Behind the Boat
Towable water toys have been a popular part of family boating for years.
From inflatable donuts and towable tubes to larger multi-person inflatables, they're a great way to enjoy time behind a suitable boat.
Why boat owners love them:
- Fun for families and groups
- Different designs suit different riding experiences
- A great way to add excitement to a day on the water
Things to consider:
Traditional inflatable towables are often designed around one activity. While they're brilliant at what they do, larger models can take up a surprising amount of space, even when deflated.
You'll also need to consider their weight, inflation time, towing requirements and the space needed for storage.
For boat owners who use towables regularly, they're a fantastic addition. But if you only have room for a limited amount of equipment, it may be worth looking for something that offers more than just towing.
2. Inflatable Swim Platforms: Extra Space on the Water
An inflatable swim platform can transform the area around your boat.
Whether you're swimming, relaxing at anchor or spending an afternoon with friends, floating platforms create additional usable space outside the cockpit.
They're particularly popular as yacht accessories, motorboat accessories and water toys for boats with limited bathing platforms.
Why they're useful:
- Create additional space at water level
- Provide somewhere to sit or relax
- Can make swimming and playing around the boat more enjoyable
- Help extend the usable space beyond the transom
Things to consider:
Many conventional inflatable swim platforms are relatively large. Some are designed as substantial extensions to a yacht's existing bathing platform.
That's fantastic if you have the storage space to accommodate one, but less practical if you're trying to keep your boating setup compact.
Smaller inflatable platforms can offer an alternative, particularly for RIBs, sportsboats and day boats.
3. Stand-Up Paddleboards: Explore Beyond the Boat
Inflatable stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) are another popular choice for boat owners.
They're ideal for exploring quiet bays, heading ashore from an anchorage or simply enjoying some time on the water.
Why they're useful:
- Great for exploring away from the boat
- Suitable for fitness and recreation
- Inflatable models are easier to store than rigid boards
- Can offer another way to enjoy an anchorage
Things to consider:
Even an inflatable paddleboard can be relatively bulky once packed, particularly when combined with its paddle, pump and other equipment.
Paddleboards also have a more specific purpose. If everyone onboard wants to swim, play or relax together, a SUP may not always be the most versatile option.
For people who love paddleboarding, they're hard to beat. But for families looking for a more varied experience, there are other options worth considering.
4. Compact Multi-Purpose Water Toys: One Product, More Possibilities
What if a single inflatable water toy could do several different jobs?
Instead of carrying a separate towable, floating platform, bodyboard and lounging accessory, a multi-purpose inflatable offers the opportunity to get more from less equipment.
This was the thinking behind AIRBOB.
Created by two yacht designers who understood the challenges of onboard storage, AIRBOB was designed to offer multiple ways to enjoy the water without the bulk of traditional single-use inflatables.
At just 90 × 90 × 12cm when inflated and approximately 3.9kg, AIRBOB is a compact inflatable water sports platform that rolls away into a small bag.
But it's what you can do with it that makes it different.
One platform. So many ways.
AIRBOB can be used as:
- A towable water toy: A different way to enjoy the water behind a boat, with options to sit, kneel or stand in accordance with the product's towing guidance.
- An inflatable swim platform: Additional floating space beside your boat for swimming and playing.
- A floating lounge: Somewhere to relax and enjoy the water at anchor.
- A bodyboarding platform: Take it to the beach and enjoy the waves in suitable conditions.
- A multi-purpose water sports platform: Use it for playing, balancing and a variety of other activities.
- A modular floating platform: Connect multiple AIRBOBs to create a larger floating area.
Unlike many traditional water toys, AIRBOB isn't restricted to one specific activity.
And when you've finished, it deflates and packs away ready for your next adventure.
5. Modular Inflatable Platforms: More Space When You Need It
One particularly useful feature to consider when choosing an inflatable water platform is whether it can connect to other platforms.
Traditional inflatable water toys often have a fixed shape and size.
Modular inflatable platforms provide more flexibility.
AIRBOB features integrated attachment points, allowing multiple platforms to be connected together.
One AIRBOB might be all you need for a quick swim or a day out on a small boat.
Connect two and you've created a larger floating area.
Connect several and you can build a bigger setup for playing, relaxing or enjoying time together at anchor.
This makes modular water toys particularly interesting for families, larger motorboats, yacht owners and anyone who wants flexibility without committing to one oversized inflatable.
The idea is simple: take the space you need, not necessarily the space your equipment demands.
What Are the Best Water Toys for a RIB?
If you own a rigid inflatable boat, choosing the right accessories is especially important.
RIBs are fantastic for getting out on the water, exploring coastlines, heading to beaches and enjoying watersports.
But storage can often be limited, particularly on smaller RIBs.
When choosing water toys for a RIB, it's worth looking for equipment that's:
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Compact enough to fit in onboard storage
- Quick to inflate and deflate
- Suitable for several different activities
- Easy to take ashore
- Practical for the size and layout of your boat
A compact inflatable water toy can be particularly useful because it doesn't need to stay inflated all day.
AIRBOB was designed with exactly these sorts of considerations in mind.
Its compact packed size and multiple uses make it an option for RIB owners looking to enjoy more activities without carrying several separate inflatables.
The Best Water Toys for Family Boats
Family boating is rarely about doing just one thing.
One person might want to go swimming while someone else wants to be towed behind the boat. Others might prefer relaxing at anchor or heading to the beach.
That's why versatility can be so valuable when choosing family boat accessories.
Instead of selecting water toys purely for one activity, it's worth considering how many people onboard might enjoy using them and how they'll fit into a typical day.
For example, a multi-purpose inflatable platform could be used for playing beside the boat in the morning, relaxing at anchor in the afternoon and taken to the beach later on.
Having fewer pieces of equipment to manage can also make packing and organising the boat considerably easier.
Of course, activities should always be matched to the conditions, the abilities of the people using the equipment and the relevant safety guidance.
What About Water Toys for Larger Yachts and Superyachts?
Storage isn't only a challenge on small boats.
Even larger yachts need to make careful decisions about the equipment carried onboard.
Tender garages, lazarettes and dedicated water toy storage areas are valuable spaces, often accommodating everything from tenders and jet skis to paddleboards, diving equipment and other watersports gear.
For larger yachts, the question isn't always whether there's room for another water toy.
It's whether that water toy adds enough value to justify the space it occupies.
Compact, multi-functional water toys are an interesting addition because they can complement existing equipment without requiring the storage of another large inflatable.
Multiple smaller platforms can also provide flexibility for different groups and activities.
It's one reason why we believe compact and modular water toys have a place onboard everything from small family RIBs to much larger yachts.
What Should You Look for When Buying Water Toys for a Boat?
Before investing in new water sports equipment or inflatable boat accessories, ask yourself a few simple questions.
How much space does it take up when packed?
The inflated dimensions are only part of the story. Think about how easily the product will fit inside your boat's lockers or storage compartments.
How easy is it to set up?
Water toys should add to your day, not take up half of it. Quick inflation and packing can make a big difference, particularly if you're frequently moving between anchorages or beaches.
How many different ways can you use it?
A single-purpose inflatable may be perfect for a specific activity, but a more versatile product could offer better value if storage is tight.
Is it suitable for your boat?
Consider the boat's size, towing capability where relevant, passenger space and how you intend to use the product.
Will the whole family enjoy it?
Think about the ages, interests and abilities of everyone onboard. A versatile product can offer different experiences for different people, provided it's used appropriately.
Can it grow with your needs?
Modular water toys offer an interesting advantage because you can start with one and expand your setup later.
Why We Created AIRBOB
AIRBOB started with a straightforward question:
Why carry so many different water toys when one product could do more?
With backgrounds in yacht design, we were familiar with the importance of making the most of limited space onboard.
And we wanted to bring that same design thinking to something fun.
The result was AIRBOB, a compact inflatable platform designed to be lightweight, versatile and easy to take almost anywhere.
We focused on a simple square shape, a rigid inflatable drop-stitch construction, removable handles, two usable surfaces and integrated connection points.
Every detail was considered around the same goal: creating more ways to enjoy the water without unnecessary complexity.
Because whether you're heading out on a RIB, spending the afternoon on a family boat or enjoying time aboard a larger yacht, we'd rather you spend more time enjoying the water and less time dealing with equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boat Water Toys
What are the best water toys for small boats?
For smaller boats, compact inflatable water toys are often a practical choice. Inflatable paddleboards, small towables and multi-purpose floating platforms can offer enjoyable experiences while taking up less storage space than many rigid or oversized alternatives.
What water toys are best for RIBs?
The best water toys for a RIB depend on the boat's size, storage capacity and intended activities. Lightweight, compact and quick-to-inflate products are particularly useful. Multi-purpose platforms can offer several activities from a single piece of equipment.
Can you use an inflatable platform behind a boat?
Only if it's specifically designed and rated for towing. Not all inflatable swim platforms are towable water toys. AIRBOB has a reinforced towing point and is designed for towing, but users must follow its towing instructions, limits and safety guidance.
Are inflatable swim platforms worth it?
Inflatable swim platforms can be a useful addition to a boat, particularly if you regularly swim, relax or spend time at anchor. They can create more usable space on the water. The best choice depends on how much space you have to store the platform and how you plan to use it.
What's the difference between a towable inflatable and an inflatable swim platform?
A towable inflatable is specifically designed to be pulled behind a suitable boat, while an inflatable swim platform is generally intended for use while stationary. Some specialist multi-purpose products, including AIRBOB, are designed for both types of activity.
How can I save storage space on my boat?
Choosing compact, collapsible and multi-purpose boating equipment can help reduce storage requirements. Prioritise products that are easy to pack, regularly used and suitable for more than one activity.
Can AIRBOBs be connected together?
Yes. AIRBOB has integrated attachment points that allow multiple platforms to be connected, creating a larger floating area for suitable stationary water activities. Always follow the manufacturer's guidance for each activity.
Less Equipment. More Adventure.
The best water toys for boats aren't necessarily the biggest, most expensive or most complicated.
They're the ones you actually use.
Whether that's a paddleboard for exploring, a towable for watersports or a compact floating platform for spending time with friends and family, the right equipment should make life on the water more enjoyable.
At AIRBOB, we believe that a single product can offer more possibilities without demanding more storage space.
One platform. So many ways.