Rivers are magic, and it is natural to seek out a day of excitement and adventure on the waters. Boating is a fairly common past time. Fishing seems to fish out the Zen in people, and for those who love the extremes, white water rafting is popular sport. Along with all that, rivers are also a great place to relax and unwind.
Enjoying a picnic with family and friends on the river sounds like a great idea. There’s a plethora of activities you can plan out to enjoy the day.
If you’re planning a river picnic on a float and haven’t yet bought one, there can be a little uncertainty about which one to buy, but fret not; the process is very simple. Just a few things to keep in mind and the rest is business as usual –
Safety –
When we’re talking about a big body of water such as a river, you can’t be too careful. If you’re going to take a float to the river, make sure that it’s made of sturdy material and won’t give out under pressure. Also, keep in mind to pick a place where the water is quiet. You do not want to take a float to a heavy flow area. Pick one with good safety measures.
Design –
When we’re talking design, it’s okay to go for a flashier option like sun pleasure party bird (https://www.amazon.com/Sun-Pleasure-Party-Island-Unicorn/dp/B07C1XSLVH/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8), but it’s all up to your personal taste. If you want something compact, a smaller float will do just fine. You should pick a float that has the basics features that you’re looking for, along with design that matches your style.
If you want to go with a bigger float but also want something that you can float around on your own with, you can buy two : A smaller for one or two, and a bigger one for the whole party.
Price –
The price range can vary from a couple of dollars to a couple hundred dollars. Your ideal float will be the one that has all the features you need, and is under or closest to your budget range. There are quite a few good options available, and you can easily find the float that fits your requirements.
Make sure to be safe out there with your family and friends. Plan your trip thoroughly, be prepared. Keep repair patch kits with you. If you have people on board who are good swimmers, much better.
Now that all that information is in your buying brain,
Let’s review some of the best river floats
1. Intex 58837EP River Run II –
If you’re looking for a compact float that you can share with someone else on your river trip, this dual raft from Intex is a good option. It is made for two with two interconnected lounges, and is a perfect option for you. The float is quite sturdy and provides good support and comfort with built in backrests.
The mesh bottom is there to keep you cool so you can relax. There is a large built in cooler with a lid for the refreshments, and two built in cup holders.
For safety there are five air chambers. A repair patch kit comes with the float. There is an all around grab rope, and two heavy duty grab handles for easier access. The easy to use connectors can be used to connect the float to other Intex river runs so that more of your friends can join you in your river fun.
2. Intex Oasis Island –
The Oasis Island from Intex is a big Island raft, spacious enough for a company of five. You can call it your “party on the river” float, and it won’t be a lie.
The Intex Oasis Island for five is a nice float with comfortable backrests and armrests on every seat that you can relax on. There is mesh lounging area where you can cool your feet, and an inbuilt cup holder for keeping the beverages.
It comes with Boston valves with which you can easily inflate or deflate the float. There is a rope ladder and grab ropes on both sides of the island. With the anchor bag you can keep the float moored and there’s also a repair patch kit.
3. Intex Pacific Paradise Relaxation Station –
Like its name, this float from Intex is a good way to relax on water. This four person river tube raft provides comfortable lounging experience with four backrests. On hot days, you can use the mesh netting to hold some water for cooling down.
There is a rope ladder with rigid plastic steps that you can use to get on and when you’re in water, there’s an all round grab rope you can hold onto. With the heavy duty handles, you can easily climb back on board.
4. Tahiti Floating Canopy Island –
This huge Island float from sun pleasure is extremely comfortable. With ample floor space, this Floating Island can seat six adults easily. There is a built in cooler and cup holders to keep refreshments and beverages fresh for snacking. The Island features a canopy which is easy to assemble and remove, and can be used for sun protection.
The seats are comfortable with backrests and armrests. You can stretch out without being a nuisance to others. With the boarding platform, you can easily get on and there are well- placed handles to assist you as well.
5. CoolerZ X5 Canopy Island –
CoolerZ X5 Canopy Island from Bestbuy has an extra wide contoured back rest, with two smaller pillow backrests. This floating Island is good for seven people, and has a swim up platform, and grab ropes on both ends. The mesh bottom can be used to cool the feel when the heat is on.
There are two cooler bags in the Float and six cup holders for the drinks. The removable sun shade can be easily assembled for the hot days.