--- title: "Rigging the Airlink Tube Platform Connection for a Firm Deck · Dockee" url: "https://dockee.net/blog/airlink-tube-platform-connection-rigging-steps" description: "Learn the precise steps for rigging the Airlink Tube platform connection to create a firm, continuous floating deck behind your yacht." language: "en" --- ![Rigging the Airlink Tube Platform Connection for a Firm Deck](https://shelter.hunpera.com/blog/dockee.net/airlink-tube-platform-connection-rigging-steps-hero.jpg)# Rigging the Airlink Tube Platform Connection for a Firm Deck [ Back to the Journal](https://dockee.net/blog)Dockee Editorial4 min read Setting up a large, stable deck behind the yacht requires a proper link between your inflatable units. An Airlink Tube platform connection brings your modular components together, creating a flat, continuous area for guests to walk across. A secure floating deck connector stops the individual platforms from drifting apart in the swell. Because Dockee platforms are built from drop-stitch fabric with reinforced PVC, they remain highly rigid on the water. The top is finished with a [teak-look surface](https://dockee.net/glossary#teak-look-surface), which provides a secure grip and requires no oiling or sanding as it is not real wood. During the autumn cruising season, a well-rigged stern gives guests a comfortable place to relax close to the water. The drop-stitch construction uses two layers of fabric joined by a dense array of internal threads. When inflated, the threads hold both surfaces parallel, making the product flat and firm instead of rounding out like a balloon. When you link two such platforms, the join must be equally firm to maintain that stability. ## Rigging the drop stitch dock link Let us look at the method for joining modular swim platforms properly. You will need your deflated connector, your floating platforms already positioned on the water, and a suitable inflator. 1. Bring the two floating platforms side by side in the water at the stern of the yacht. 2. Make sure the engines and thrusters are switched off before anyone enters the water to guide the units into position. 3. Connect the [Air Pump for Inflatable Docks 500W](https://dockee.net/product/air-pump-500w) or a similar electric inflator to the valve of the [Airlink Tube](https://dockee.net/product/airlink-tube), which measures 200 x 30 cm. 4. Inflate the tube to the pressure stated in the product instructions until it is completely rigid. 5. Slide the rigid tube into the connection loops spanning the gap between the two platforms. 6. Fasten the tube using the integrated straps, pulling them tight so that nothing shifts when a person steps across the gap. ## Managing your connecting inflatable platforms When you assemble a wider floating arrangement, the connections take the strain of the water movement. You should only use these products in calm, sheltered water. If wind and waves begin to build up, bring the inflatables in or secure them well. Connecting inflatable platforms gives you a broader area for lounging, but you still need to tie the main lines to strong, suitable fixing points on the yacht. Keep all lines clear of the propellers at all times. If guests are using the extended deck for swimming, you must always supervise swimmers, especially children. ![Airlink Tube, inflatable connector by Dockee](https://shelter.hunpera.com/blog/dockee.net/airlink-tube-platform-connection-rigging-steps-inline-1-073ccfa4.jpg) *Pictured: Airlink Tube, an inflatable connector* A proper setup means that guests stepping from a [Premium Teak Platform 4.10 m](https://dockee.net/product/premium-teak-platform-410) to a secondary unit will find a stable footing. Air expands as it warms, so check the pressure again on hot, sunny days. You can learn more about this in our [inflation and setup guide](https://dockee.net/guide#inflation-and-setup). When the platforms and the tube are correctly inflated, the entire assembly feels firm underfoot. ## End of season care and stowage At the end of the autumn cruising season, the gear requires a little basic care before stowage. Rinse the platforms and the tube thoroughly with fresh water after contact with salt water. Clean the fabrics with a mild soap solution and give the teak-look surfaces a regular, gentle clean to keep their appearance. Let everything air-dry in a well-ventilated space. It is vital that the equipment is completely dry before you deflate, fold and pack it away. When not in use, store your inflatables and covers dry and out of prolonged direct sunlight. A detailed care guide is included with every order to help your crew maintain the equipment over the winter months. Proper storage ensures the materials remain supple and ready for deployment next spring. ## Delivery and warranty policies Dockee products carry a two-year manufacturer warranty from delivery against defects in materials and workmanship. We offer worldwide, fully insured [shipping](https://dockee.net/shipping) for all items. Smaller items travel by insured courier, while larger products are handled by specialised logistics partners who coordinate delivery to your marina or berth. ![Airlink Tube, inflatable connector by Dockee](https://shelter.hunpera.com/blog/dockee.net/airlink-tube-platform-connection-rigging-steps-inline-2-4766b48d.jpg) *Pictured: Airlink Tube, an inflatable connector* On arrival, inspect the delivery and report any damage promptly with photos. Should your plans change, we accept [returns](https://dockee.net/returns) within 14 days of delivery for unused items in their original packaging. Please note that tailor-made items are excluded from this return policy. Tailor-made options are available on request if you need a specific size, surface or configuration adapted to your yacht. Share[](https://x.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdockee.net%2Fblog%2Fairlink-tube-platform-connection-rigging-steps%3Futm_source%3Dx%26utm_medium%3Dsocial_share%26utm_campaign%3Djournal&text=Discover%20the%20correct%20steps%20for%20rigging%20the%20Airlink%20Tube%20platform%20connection%20to%20keep%20your%20yacht's%20floating%20deck%20firm%20and%20secure. "Share on X")[](https://www.linkedin.com/sharing/share-offsite/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdockee.net%2Fblog%2Fairlink-tube-platform-connection-rigging-steps%3Futm_source%3Dlinkedin%26utm_medium%3Dsocial_share%26utm_campaign%3Djournal "Share on LinkedIn")[](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fdockee.net%2Fblog%2Fairlink-tube-platform-connection-rigging-steps%3Futm_source%3Dfacebook%26utm_medium%3Dsocial_share%26utm_campaign%3Djournal "Share on Facebook")[](https://wa.me/?text=Discover%20the%20correct%20steps%20for%20rigging%20the%20Airlink%20Tube%20platform%20connection%20to%20keep%20your%20yacht's%20floating%20deck%20firm%20and%20secure.%20https%3A%2F%2Fdockee.net%2Fblog%2Fairlink-tube-platform-connection-rigging-steps%3Futm_source%3Dwhatsapp%26utm_medium%3Dsocial_share%26utm_campaign%3Djournal "Share on WhatsApp")[](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdockee.net%2Fblog%2Fairlink-tube-platform-connection-rigging-steps%3Futm_source%3Dpinterest%26utm_medium%3Dsocial_share%26utm_campaign%3Djournal&media=https%3A%2F%2Fshelter.hunpera.com%2Fblog%2Fdockee.net%2Fairlink-tube-platform-connection-rigging-steps-og.jpg&description=Discover%20the%20correct%20steps%20for%20rigging%20the%20Airlink%20Tube%20platform%20connection%20to%20keep%20your%20yacht's%20floating%20deck%20firm%20and%20secure. "Share on Pinterest") ## Frequently asked questions - ### Can I leave the floating deck connector attached overnight? You should only use the products in calm, sheltered water. If wind and waves begin to build up, bring the inflatables in or secure them well. ## Recommended for this article [Airlink Tube | Seamless Floating Connector · €210.00](https://dockee.net/product/airlink-tube)The central inflatable connector that securely ties your modular floating units together. [Premium Teak Platform · From €1,850.00 · 4 sizes](https://dockee.net/product/premium-teak-platform-410)A versatile floating deck that forms the foundation of your extended yacht swim platform. [Air Pump for Inflatable Docks 500W · €80.00](https://dockee.net/product/air-pump-500w)A reliable electric inflator for setting up your connector tubes and smaller accessories. ## More from the Journal [Transom Inflatable Safety Checklist for Autumn Anchorages · Read](https://dockee.net/blog/transom-inflatable-safety-checklist)[How to Care for Your Floating Platform's Teak-Look Deck · Read](https://dockee.net/blog/maintaining-floating-platform-teak-look)[Jet Ski Docking Solutions and a Pre-Launch Checklist · Read](https://dockee.net/blog/jet-ski-docking-solutions-pre-launch-checklist)