WAVERIDER Telescopic Seat Pedestal with Shock Absorber – 3 Sizes (310–650 mm)

The Waverider telescopic pedestal with shock absorber is a top-tier solution for comfort and safety at the helm or seating positions of speedboats, fishing vessels, and yachts. By combining adjustable height with vibration-dampening capability, it greatly improves the experience for the helmsman in rough conditions.

Key design features: The pedestal consists of two telescoping tubes (Ø75/65 mm) that slide within each other, allowing height adjustment via an integrated gas spring. Inside is a shock-absorbing mechanism that cushions vertical impacts – when hitting a wave or chop, the seat “suspends” slightly instead of slamming hard. This protects both the occupant and the boat’s structure from excessive shock loads.

Height Variants:

• Model 48.707.10 (310–390 mm): A low-profile pedestal suitable for small to medium boats with a lower seating position. It’s recommended where keeping the center of gravity low is important – e.g., at high speeds. Ideal for helm seats on boats ~3–5 m or passenger seats on RIBs where seating is close to the deck level. The 310–390 mm range allows fine adjustment depending on the skipper’s preference (for example, lower when windy, higher when stationary).
• Model 48.707.11 (440–570 mm): A mid-height, all-purpose choice for most powerboats and runabouts. This is the most popular range, fitting standard console setups. It can raise a seat high enough for excellent visibility or lower it for a more braced position in rough water. Recommended for boats ~5–7 m.
• Model 48.707.12 (520–650 mm): An extended pedestal designed for larger boats and specialized needs – for example, a flybridge helm, seats on raised platforms, or control stations with elevated consoles. This model offers a significant lift (up to 65 cm) for superb visibility over the bow. Suited for boats over ~7–8 m, where the helm station or view point requires a high seating position.

All versions feature a universal top plate: it’s made of reinforced nylon (or composite) and has a standard hole pattern to fit most marine seats. You attach your seat with bolts, and the top can swivel 360° – meaning you can easily turn to converse with crew or adjust your view without standing up.

Stability: The bottom round base (Ø228 mm flange) bolts securely to the deck (typically with six or more screws/bolts). It’s wide to distribute loads and ensure stability even under lateral forces. The pedestal can be removed from the base – it’s a “snap-in” style design: via a locking mechanism, the post can be lifted out, leaving only the low-profile base on deck. This is convenient if you want to stow the seats (e.g., cover the boat or clear space for fishing).

Benefits & Recommendations:

• Comfort & Safety: Thanks to the shock absorber, long runs in choppy conditions are far less fatiguing. The helmsman’s spine and joints are protected from sharp impacts. This reduces risk of injury and increases focus and comfort while operating the boat.
• Customization: With adjustable height, you can set your seat to your stature or the conditions. For instance, when approaching harbor you might raise the seat for better view, while in open water you might lower it for stability.
• Improved Visibility: The tallest model allows the skipper to see over the bow or cabin, which is especially useful when piloting a boat with a long foredeck or navigating shallow waters.
• Easy Upgrade: The WAVERIDER pedestals are an excellent upgrade over standard fixed posts. If you currently have a simple non-suspending pedestal, switching to a shock-absorbing one yields an immediate improvement. All metal parts are anodized or stainless – built to withstand marine conditions, ensuring a long service life.
• Capacity: These pedestals are engineered to support an adult’s weight plus additional forces from waves. (Typically tested for ~120 kg / 265 lb static load or more, depending on model.) This makes them suitable even for heavy captain’s chairs with padding.

Installation: It’s advisable to install the pedestal on a strong, flat deck surface, with reinforcement if needed. Use the included or recommended fasteners (stainless steel bolts with backing washers or a backing plate underneath). Check the height and rotation clearance before final tightening – ensure that at full 360° rotation, the seat won’t hit the steering wheel or any instruments.