When the engine stops, the fun begins! Everyone loves to enjoy the water, especially on a hot day. This fun can multiply ten times by having a diving board on your pontoon.
The massive jumps and somersault make the plunge extremely fun. Believe me; you can do it all day long without really feeling too much. But is placing a diving board on a pontoon possible? Yes, that’s what this article is all about.
This diving board from Lillipad is the world’s only patented diving board for boats, which means it’s the only option in the market. But I don’t think there can be anything better than this one.
It is durable, install/remove easily, very stable, doesn’t slip, offers a good jump, and has a great design. This diving board is made from heavy wall aluminum; this diving board works on any boat at least 18 feet in length and has a solid, flat surface for proper installation.
Technically, it works on most boats. Apart from the pontoon, you can install it on houseboats, motor yachts, and cabin cruisers with integrated swim platforms. The best part is that it’s easily removable, so if you have multiple boats, you can get it on the other within no time.
The stainless steel mounting hardware can be quickly removed when needed. This thing is suitable for anyone up to 250 lbs, so kids and adults can use this. The installation process is a breeze; even a layman can do it. All in all, this thing is impressive. So, let’s begin with some of its features.
- Item may ship in more than one box and may arrive separately
- Energy canceling design means you can play for hours without rocking the boat
- Designed for kids and adults up to 250 lbs
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We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
Features of Lillipad Diving Board –
1. Great Stability –
People often ask me – Does it hurts the pontoon? And does it move the pontoon upon jumping? The answer to both of your questions is a big NO. This diving board stayed very stable upon use thanks to its well-engineered design.
It uses traction materials and an adjustable stabilizer rail for stability. Basically, it cancels the jumper’s energy by counteracting the force within the framework of the diving board. So, you have no to minimal effect on the outside.
Others on the pontoon may feel a gentle wave-action, but nothing too big to notice. Since the internal mechanism takes most of the pressure, very little stress goes on the pontoon framework, which means it won’t hurt your boat.
2. Durable board that is built to last –
Made from heavy wall aluminum extrusion, Lillipad uses stainless steel hardware and urethane spring components, creating a durable board. The chances of corrosion or component failure are very minimal.
You can expect it to last for years or even decades if properly cared for. Of course, that’s what you expect at this price. By proper care, I mean removing and covering it after use, nothing special.
Remember, you have to altogether remove the board for putting the cover on. It fits in most seating storage, so you don’t have to worry about the storage either.
3. Multiple Mount Option –
This board has two mount options – Surface and Underfloor. If you have access to the floor underside that is free of obstructions from frame members, wires, etc., then go for the underfloor.
However, if accessing the underside area is impossible, or the frame member is hindered by mounting plates, go for surface mounting hardware. I went for the underfloor as it was cheaper; however, people usually go for the surface one(official statement).
The reason is its ease of installment and stainless-steel mounting plates. Additionally, it’s the only option for fiberglass or composite floors. Decide it for yourself.
If you are still confused, here is the installation video of the Surface mount and Underfloor mount. It’s not the full video but a glimpse of what you can expect. The How-to Install section below gives all the installation videos and user guides.
4. Other Features –
This diving board has a quick-release pin underneath that can be adjusted to strengthen the spring for heavier or lighter users. Beneath the board lies two holes for putting the pin.
Putting the pin in one hole makes it suitable for light users(like kids), while the other is suitable for heavy ones. It ensures both parties enjoy without sacrificing the fun.
Make sure the kids wear a USCG-approved kid’s life jacket before jumping in the water. It hardly takes three seconds to change the pin, much like how you do in the gym.
Once the fun part is over, remove the pin, and the board drops down along the side of the boat. You don’t need to remove the diving board when the boat is in motion, docking, or trailering.
In most cases, you don’t need to remove Lillipad while trailering. However, it’s recommended to lock the stabilizer handle into the lowered position and install the cover for the best protection. OR you can just remove it; totally your choice. Both ways, it works fine.
Installation Process –
Installing the Lillipad diving board is quite easy; even a layman can do it if you have installed anything on your pontoon. It’s just easy. Even though the process is easy, I will not write it all.
The reason is that Lillipad offers a dedicated user manual and video series for installation, which is simple and easy to understand. I might get things complicated, so learning from there is an intelligent option.
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FAQ –
I know you must have many questions, so let’s talk about all of them. I am sure all of your doubts will be cleared below.
Can you put your pontoon cover with this diving board on, or do you have to remove it altogether?
You can put the cover on your pontoon with this on, but it may not fully snap. If the diving board is installed near the deck, it may not need to be removed, but you must eradicate it if it’s near the main seating area.
The reason is that a pontoon cover is designed to fit tight around the seats. Since it can be easily removed, I don’t think it’s in any way a con. Of course, you have to put in a little effort, but it won’t take a lot of your time.
Does the pontoon move when adults dive off the board and what is the weight limit?
The maximum weight limit is 250 lbs, and I have my friend(200 lbs) jump off the diving board without causing any movement in the pontoon.
So, I can say this board is very stable, and you will feel nothing when someone dives off it other than maybe a gentle wave-action. But it’s the opposite for the diver; he will feel all bouncy and energetic.
What’s the size of the footprint on the deck?
It’s 24 x 17 inches.
Where can a Lillipad Board be installed on?
It can be installed on any boat of at least 18 feet in length and has a solid, flat surface for installation. So technically, it works on almost all boats, including your Pontoon, motor yachts, and more.
Will this Board Hurt my pontoon by putting too much pressure?
Nope! Its spring mechanism takes most of the pressure leaving behind a minuscule portion for the pontoon. So, it doesn’t put much stress or hurt your pontoon, don’t worry, guys.
What is the difference between an Underfloor mounting system and a Surface mounting system?
The underfloor mounting means it’s screwed in from the bottom/under the floor surface (if you have access), whereas the surface means screwing it in from the top. I recommend underfloor mounting if you have access as the holds it in is much stronger.
But people usually prefer surface-mounting due to their ease of installment and stainless-steel mounting plates. Additionally, if you have a fiberglass or composite floor, the surface mounting system is also preferred.
Do I need to drop my underfloor skin for installing this diving board?
Not really! You can use the surface mounting kit for installation. This way, you don’t have to remove the skin for installation, and even if you do, it’s only for a few screws, not the whole thing.
You should be able to position the mounting hardware to secure the mount plates to “one lineal.” You will know more about this process in the installation manual and videos I recommend in the “How to Install” section.
Can I use this for my pool?
No, as it’s designed for boats, so it won’t fit properly.
How durable is the diving board?
Designed with heavy wall aluminum extrusions, stainless steel hardware, and urethane spring components, so corrosion and component failure are minimal. So, you can say it will last for long, even decades, if taken care of.
Who can use a LilliPad Diving Board?
Anyone weighing less than 250 pounds can use the lillipad. It includes kids, adults, dogs, birds(I got it far, lol), everything, and everyone.
Its adjustable pin design strengthens the spring for heavier or lighter users, so everyone can have fun.
Will the diving board interfere with docking my boat?
No really. Simply take out the pin, and the diving board gets low along the side of your pontoon, so it won’t interfere by any means. You can even put a cover on top for extra protection.
Remember, the Lilipad cover is an add-on, so you must buy it separately. I do recommend getting this board cover for maximum protection. A cover protects the board and makes it easy to transport.
Is it difficult to remove the diving board from the boat to stow?
Nope, it’s actually the opposite. You can stow it by unscrewing the three eye bolts that secure it to your pontoon’s floor. Once removed, it separates into three parts(Stabilizer Handle, Ladder, Base/Board), which can be easily stowed.
A LilliPad Diving Board Cover is always recommended for use during storage. The diving board cover protects the diving board and pulls the components together for ease of transport.
Do I need to remove the diving board while trailering my boat?
In most cases, NO! But I recommend locking the stabilizer handle into the lowered position and putting the cover on before trailering.
It secures the diving platform to the shock tube and protects the board from the elements.
Is it a plank?
It’s NOT a plank. But it isn’t as flexible as home pool diving boards. The spring action from the LilliPad comes from the urethane springs, which are part of the framework of the diving board.
Are there different sizes or heights of diving boards available?
Nope, it comes in one size and height, i.e., the one you saw in the picture above. It, however, does come in different mounting hardware kits.
Is the mounting hardware difficult to install?
Nope! I have said it a thousand times that even a layman can do it. You got plenty of installation videos and manuals, making the process easier.
Of course, if you are a marine professional or skilled handyman, you can do it quickly, but that doesn’t mean a novice can’t do it the same way.
Conclusion –
Today we talked about the Lillipad diving board, which is the best pontoon diving board. If you want to make diving more fun in your pontoon, this thing can do the magic. It may appear a bit pricy but believe me; it’s worth every penny. If you like this board, share it with your boater friends so they too know about this fantastic diving board.