Want dockside relaxation anywhere you go? Store your boat in a slip and need an easy platform to work from the water? Inflatable docks are sturdy platforms that support sitting or standing adults, beach chairs, coolers, and more — giving you a private dock wherever you anchor. Here are our top picks, with options for kids and pets too.
- For converting from solid dock to lounger: West Marine Floating Rec Mesh Dock Kit
- For a sturdy, reliable dock: West Marine Floating Dock Kit
- For a fun option for the kids: West Marine Floating Slide Dock Kit
- For getting your dog in and out of the water: Solstice Pup Plank Boost Kit
- For maximum in-water lounging area: West Marine Floating Hex Mesh Dock
- For built-in seating and back rests: West Marine Floating C-Dock Kit
- FAQs
Inflatable Docks and Platforms
West Marine Floating Rec Mesh Dock Kit
Top features: Our Floating Rec Mesh Dock Kit gives you a floating home base with a 10’ × 8’ surface area and an 8” thick core for maximum stability. Holds multiple people, beach chairs, a cooler, and more.
What makes it stand out: The 5’ × 4’ inset solid platform removes to uncover a mesh in-water lounging area underneath — giving you the choice of a solid deck or a partially submerged mesh lounge with the same dock.
West Marine Floating Dock Kit
Top features: Our Floating Dock Kit is a solid platform designed for relaxing on the water or as a secondary dock when working on your boat. Made from premium-grade PVC with dropstitch technology — rigid and stable when inflated, compact when rolled up for storage.
What makes it stand out: The most versatile utility dock in the lineup. Easily supports adults, beach chairs, and coolers, and doubles as a work platform when you need to access the hull or make repairs from the water.
West Marine Floating Slide Dock Kit
Top features: Our Floating Slide Dock Kit converts from a solid platform to a water slide in minutes. Inflate it, raise the slide, and you have a personal water slide anywhere on the water. Leave the slide flat and it becomes a solid platform that accommodates adults, coolers, and gear.
What makes it stand out: Two modes in one dock. The best choice for families with children or anyone who wants an activity platform that also functions as a standard floating dock.
Accessories for Pets
Solstice Pup Plank Boost Kit
Top features: Solstice’s Pup Plank Boost Kit attaches to your dock, swim step, or pool and gives your dog an easy, independent way out of the water. The weighted mesh entry ramp dips below the water surface so the dog can swim onto it naturally, and the extra-dense, claw-resistant EVA traction pad provides grip and comfort.
What makes it stand out: The weighted mesh entry angle and claw-resistant surface make this genuinely functional — dogs figure it out quickly without needing to be lifted. The best solution for keeping your dog safe and happy on the water without constantly hauling them aboard by hand.
Mesh Lounge and Seating Docks
West Marine Floating Hex Mesh Dock
Top features: Our Floating Hex Mesh Dock features a large 5’ center mesh lounging area where multiple people can float partially submerged — cooled by the water while supported by the dock. The surrounding inflatable frame keeps everyone in place.
What makes it stand out: The largest mesh in-water lounging area in our dock lineup. If your priority is staying cool in the water while relaxing with friends, this is the right choice.
West Marine Floating C-Dock Kit
Top features: Our Floating C-Dock Kit is designed as a social hangout platform with built-in backrests, cupholders, and a comfort traction pad for secure footing getting in and out of the water. Two C-Docks can be connected together to double the seating and lounging space.
What makes it stand out: The built-in backrests and cupholders make this the most comfortable option for extended lounging. The ability to connect multiple units makes it ideal for large groups or anchoring parties.
How to Choose the Best Inflatable Dock for You
Consider how you plan to use it. Primarily staying cool and relaxing? A mesh-center dock like the Hex Mesh is the right call. Want a mix of utility and fun? A convertible like the Rec Mesh or the Slide Dock gives you flexibility. Need a solid work platform? The standard Floating Dock Kit is the most practical. Have a dog? Add the Pup Plank. Whatever you choose, West Marine inflatable docks are built with premium-grade PVC and dropstitch construction for season after season of use.
Looking for More Gear?
From coolers and drinkware to swimwear and footwear, we have everything you need to enjoy your time on the water. Find your nearest store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are inflatable docks stable enough to stand on?
Yes — West Marine inflatable docks use dropstitch PVC construction, which inflates to a rigid, board-like surface that can support standing adults. The 8” thick cores on our platform docks provide significantly more stability than thin inflatable SUP-style products. Most of our docks are rated to support multiple adults plus gear simultaneously. That said, inflatable docks are floating platforms, not fixed structures — they will move with water and shift when weight moves around them, particularly in choppy conditions.
What is dropstitch construction and why does it matter?
Dropstitch construction uses thousands of internal threads connecting the top and bottom layers of the inflatable. When inflated, these threads hold the surfaces parallel under pressure, creating a rigid, flat platform rather than a round balloon shape. This is the same technology used in inflatable SUP boards and allows inflatable docks to be firm enough to stand on, hold chairs, and support significant weight — while still deflating to a compact, portable size for storage.
Can I anchor an inflatable dock in open water?
Yes. Most inflatable docks include anchor attachment points or D-rings specifically for this purpose. Use a stake anchor, mushroom anchor, or other suitable anchor appropriate for the bottom type and water depth at your anchorage. In exposed conditions with significant wind or current, use multiple anchor points to keep the dock from spinning or drifting. Always check local regulations regarding anchoring and placement of floating platforms.
How do I store and transport an inflatable dock?
Deflate the dock completely, rinse with fresh water to remove salt, sand, or debris, and allow it to dry before rolling it up for storage. Most West Marine inflatable docks roll up to a manageable size that fits in a vehicle trunk or storage locker. Store away from direct sun and extreme temperatures when not in use. Inflate with an electric pump (often included or available separately) — hand inflation of a full-size dock is not practical.
