Such a newb question but here goes anyway..

[Nick70]

Are there any towable boat tubes that could be used to paddle to shore?
my first boat is going in the water soon. I plan on dropping anchor off shore a few different places. I'd also like to have a towable tube for fun. I don't want to try and store two small inflatables, and think it would be great if a tube could pull double duty.
As a recreational towable, and a dinghy.
is this just me dreaming?

 

[LG111]

Maybe a banana tube could function as both? Google banana tube, tons to choose from.

 

[BillK2632]

Never have done it, but don't see why you couldn't, just look at the various tubes etc somewhere like Overton's to get an idea of what might work.

 

[Stee6043]

I bought a cheapo (sub $100) raft for ferrying kids to shore when we anchor out in Lake Michigan. I quickly learned a couple things - 1.) Paddling is not particularly realistic in a low dollar inflatable boat/raft with an uber soft bottom. What is more realistic is Dad being in the water swimming while pulling said inflatable boat/raft to shore while kids enjoy the ride. 2.) You have to spend "real" money to get something of any size that would withstand towing behind the boat. 3.) We now never use it, we just anchor closer and all swim.

I assume there is no reason you couldn't paddle in using a normal tube. We scoot around on them all the time while anchored in coves for swimming.