Paddling alone is peaceful, but have you ever wondered if it’s more fun with friends? A multi person paddle board is fun! Not mention they are growing in popularity because they offer a new way to hit the water together. Plus everyone likes a party SUP.

Our adventure on one of these giant boards was full of insights and laughs and I’m excited to share it with those curious about group paddling.

Read on and dive into our splashy journey! 💦

What is a Multi-Person Paddle Board?

A multi-person paddle board, also known as a multi-person SUP or tandem paddle board, is a larger inflatable paddle board designed to accommodate multiple riders. It offers the opportunity for group water activities and social paddling experiences.

Why should you use one?

So I actually asked this question recently, and after a quick Google search this is what I found…

Social Experience	Paddling with friends or family on the same board is fun! It creates a sense of teamwork and camaraderie. It’s a unique way to enjoy the outdoors together, encouraging communication and coordination.
Increased Stability	Multi-person paddle boards are generally larger and more buoyant than single-person boards, providing increased stability. This makes them ideal for beginners or those who are less confident on the water, as the extra stability can help reduce the chances of falling in.
Versatility	These boards can be used for a variety of activities beyond just paddling, such as yoga, fishing, or even picnicking on the water. The larger surface area provides more space for gear, snacks, or even pets.
Strength & Balance	Paddling together requires synchronized movements, which can enhance core strength and balance for all participants. It’s a fun and engaging way to work out with others.
Exploration & Adventure:	Sharing a paddle board can encourage exploration and adventure, as you work together to navigate new waterways or destinations. It’s an excellent way to create memorable experiences.

Our Experience Trying a Multi-Person Paddle Board

So what was it like to actually use one? One word – chaos.

There were so many paddles flying around and it’s really hard to co-ordinate everyone so that the weight is evenly distributed. Don’t get me wrong – it was a really fun experience and I’m glad I did it.

We used this SUP: Solstice Maoria

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

The board was great, it was big and heavy (which you’d expect) and it was a nightmare to pump up.

But once we got it going then it worked really well with the 4 of us. We took an adventure all around a flat water bay in Cape Town, South Africa and there were lots of laughs and us falling into the water.

If you are considering buying or renting one then you should 100% do it – just make sure that you understand a few things about these big paddle boards.

Safety Precautions

Here are a few safety things that I learned from the experience:

• Always wear a life jacket, regardless of your swimming skills. It’s a key piece of safety gear that can save lives in emergencies.
  
• Check local weather conditions before heading out. Avoid paddling in high winds or thunderstorms to reduce the risk of accidents.
  
• Use a leash attached to your multi – person paddle board. This keeps the board close if everyone falls into the water. Not everyone needs on but at least one person should be sensible.
  
• Apply sunscreen and wear the right clothing. We got so badly sunburnt because we didn’t take this seriously.

Fun Activities To Do On A Multi-Person Paddle Board

Here are some fun things that you can do on a multi-person paddle board:

1. Fishing Trips – The stability and space on a multi-person paddle board make it ideal for a calm fishing experience. You can carry more gear and enjoy the serene environment, possibly increasing your chances of a good catch with friends or family.
   
   
2. Drinking Games – These are often party SUPs. So you can grab a paddle board cooler with some drinks and go out on the water to have fun. I’ve done this a few times in the past and it’s always a good time.
   
   
3. Water-based Games – A large multi person paddle board is always a hit with kids. Play games like tag, relay races, or paddle board jousting, where balance and teamwork are key. These activities add an element of competition and fun to your paddle boarding experience.
   
   
4. Swimming Platform – Anchor the board in a safe location and use it as a platform for swimming, diving, or simply relaxing on the water. It’s a great way to cool off on hot days.
   
   
5. Photography Sessions – The board can serve as a stable platform for photography sessions on the water, capturing stunning landscapes, wildlife, or group selfies with a unique perspective.
   
   
6. Star Gazing – On clear nights, paddle out away from the light pollution and lie back on the board to stargaze. The water’s gentle movement adds a magical feel to the experience.
   
   
7. Picnics on the Water – Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks, and enjoy a floating picnic. The large surface area of the board makes it possible to lay out a spread and enjoy a meal with an unbeatable view.
   

Tips for Using a Multi-Person Paddle Board

When using a multi-person paddle board, it’s important to choose the right size and weight capacity for your group. Properly inflating and deflating the board, as well as regular maintenance and care, will ensure that you have an enjoyable experience on the water.

Choosing the right size and weight capacity

When selecting a multi-person paddle board, consider the size and weight capacity that will accommodate the number of individuals using it. Look for a board with a weight capacity suitable for all paddlers, ensuring stability and safety on the water.

Choose a length and width that can comfortably hold the intended number of riders to enhance balance and maneuverability during group activities. Checking the manufacturer’s recommendations for maximum weight limits is essential to ensure everyone’s safety while enjoying collaborative paddleboarding experiences.

Ensure that you choose a paddleboard with an adequate weight capacity to support multiple users without compromising stability or overall performance in various water conditions – this not only ensures safety but also contributes to an enjoyable group paddling experience.

Here are some other great party SUP options:

#1: Gili Manta Ray

The GILI 12′ Manta Ray is a massive, fun-filled inflatable paddle board designed to host you, your family, friends, and even pets, loaded with gear. It’s versatile with 5 action mounts for everything from cup holders to cameras, plus two huge bungee systems for ample storage. It’s perfect for various activities, including fishing, thanks to multiple mounts and oversized bungees. The board is ultra-stable, features a grooved traction pad for comfort and slip resistance, and comes with a complete accessory kit including pumps, paddles, fins, and a rolling duffel bag. Plus, purchasing this SUP supports ocean and marine life charities. It’s the ultimate party SUP, offering fun for groups looking to enjoy the water together.

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

---

#2: ISLE Megalodon

The ISLE Megalodon is a beast of an inflatable stand up paddle board that’s all about bringing the fun for everyone. Designed to hold up a massive crew, with the 15-foot version supporting up to 1,050 pounds and the 12-foot version 450 pounds, it’s perfect for family outings, friend gatherings, fishing, yoga, or just chilling with your pets. It’s made from military-grade PVC, making it super durable yet lightweight, and it features a grooved traction pad for comfort and slip resistance. Transporting this giant is a breeze with its multiple neoprene-padded handles. Each board comes with a sweet accessory bundle including an adjustable paddle, carry backpack, high-pressure pump, and more. Created by a team passionate about water sports, the Megalodon is ideal for those looking to take their paddle boarding adventures to the next level, whether you’re into group paddles, floating docks, or surf sessions.

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

Properly inflating and deflating the board

To properly inflate and deflate the board, follow these steps:

1. Use a high – quality pump to ensure efficient inflation. Consider an electric pump because these are big.
2. Connect the pump to the valve securely to avoid air leakage.
3. Inflate the board until it reaches the recommended PSI level for optimal performance.
4. Check the firmness of the board by pressing down with your hand.
5. To deflate, open the valve and use a deflation pump to release air quickly.
6. Roll the board tightly to remove any remaining air before folding it for storage.

Maintenance and care

Regularly check the inflation valve and tighten it if necessary to ensure a secure seal during use.

To maintain your multi-person paddle board properly, periodically check all fins for tightness and make sure they are free of any debris or damage that could affect performance on the water.

Keep an eye on the overall condition of your paddleboard bag if you have one; clean it as needed to prevent mildew or mold growth, which can impact both its appearance and functionality over time.

Conclusion

Using a multi-person paddle board can be incredibly fun. We had a lot of fun trying out various activities on the water and messing around on our SUP. So I’d really recommend trying out a party SUP. Grab a good group of people and you won’t be disappointed. Would I buy one? Maybe – if you have a place to regularly use them or children then they are amazing. But if you’re buying one as a novelty thing then I’d give it a skip.

FAQs

How many people can ride a multi-person paddle board?

A multi-person paddle board can accommodate 2-8 riders, depending on the size and weight capacity of the specific board.

Is it difficult to balance on a multi-person paddle board?

Balancing on a multi-person paddle board may require some adjustment, especially with multiple riders moving around, but it can be stable once everyone finds their footing.

What activities can you do on a multi-person paddle board?

On a multi-person paddle board, you can enjoy activities such as leisurely paddling, group yoga sessions, picnicking, fishing or even small excursions along calm waters.

Can children participate in riding a multi-person paddle board?

Yes, children can join in the fun of riding a multi-person paddle board under adult supervision and appropriate safety measures.

Are there any tips for maximizing fun on a multi-person paddleboard?

To maximize enjoyment while riding a multi-person paddleboard, consider choosing calm water conditions and bringing along snacks or games for added entertainment during breaks.