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Wave Runner 1 vs Wave Runner 2: 18 ft vs 16 ft Ocean Slide Rental
Wave Runner 1 vs Wave Runner 2: both are ocean-themed inflatable slides with blue waves and dolphins, and both run wet or dry. The difference is scale. Wave Runner 1 is an 18-foot, 32′ × 13′ slide at $449 a day built for the biggest thrill. Wave Runner 2 is a compact 16-foot, 27′ × 10′ slide at $399 a day that fits mid-sized yards. Here is how to choose.
Quick Answer: Which Wave Runner Should You Rent?
- Choose Wave Runner 1 if you want the tallest slide we rent, have a larger yard or event space, and want a show-stopping centerpiece.
- Choose Wave Runner 2 if you have a mid-sized yard, want to save $50, or are hosting a backyard birthday where a 16-foot slide is plenty.
Side-by-Side: Wave Runner 1 vs Wave Runner 2
| Wave Runner 1 | Wave Runner 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 18 ft | 16 ft |
| Size (L × W × H) | 32′ × 13′ × 18′ | 27′ × 10′ × 16′ |
| Daily price | $449 | $399 |
| Wet or dry | Wet or dry | Wet or dry |
| Ages | 3+ with adult supervision | 3+ with adult supervision |
| Riders on the lane | 1 at a time recommended | 1 at a time recommended |
| Theme | Blue wave art and dolphins | Wave graphics and dolphin accents |
| Space to reserve | About 37′ × 18′ | About 32′ × 15′ |
| Best for | Big kids, school fun days, wow-factor events | Backyard birthdays, mid-sized yards, church socials |
Which Is Better for Your Yard Size?
Space is the deciding factor for most families. Wave Runner 1 is five feet longer, three feet wider and two feet taller than Wave Runner 2. Using the rule of thumb in our size and space guide, reserve about 37′ × 18′ for Wave Runner 1 and about 32′ × 15′ for Wave Runner 2, on flat ground with clear air overhead. If you are unsure, send us a photo of your yard and we will tell you which fits.
Which Is Better for Your Guests?
- Younger kids (ages 3 and up): both are recommended for ages 3+, but a 16-foot slide is a gentler first step for many children.
- Big kids and teens: Wave Runner 1 is the thrill-seeker’s pick, the tallest slide in our fleet.
- Mixed ages: Wave Runner 2 is easier to supervise in a typical backyard; for a bigger group, Wave Runner 1 gives more of a “main event.”
Either way, only one rider should be on the slide lane at a time, and an adult should supervise the queue and landing. See our safety guide.
Is the $50 Difference Worth It?
It is if you have the room and want a bigger impression. Wave Runner 1 is a tall, photo-worthy centerpiece for school carnivals, block parties and large summer birthdays. If your party is a typical backyard birthday and space is limited, Wave Runner 2 delivers the same ocean theme and wet-or-dry flexibility for $50 less. Both include delivery, setup, takedown, a commercial blower, anchoring and cleaning.
Wet or Dry? Both Work
Both slides can run with a splash pool or dry. A wet setup needs a water source and a place for runoff to drain, and the splash pool adds a little to the footprint. For help deciding, read wet vs dry slide rental and our water slide setup checklist.
What About Other Slides?
If neither is quite right, compare all five of our water slides on the water slide comparison page, or see every unit on the inflatable comparison chart. For a combo with a bounce area, see the combo comparison.
Where Do We Deliver?
We are based in Laguna Niguel and deliver across Orange County, including county-wide water slide rentals, Mission Viejo, Huntington Beach, Santa Ana and Tustin.
Frequently Asked Questions: Wave Runner 1 vs 2
What is the difference between Wave Runner 1 and Wave Runner 2?
Wave Runner 1 is 18 feet tall and 32′ × 13′ at $449 a day. Wave Runner 2 is 16 feet tall and 27′ × 10′ at $399 a day. Both are ocean-themed, wet or dry, and recommended for ages 3 and up.
Which Wave Runner is taller?
Wave Runner 1 stands 18 feet tall, two feet taller than Wave Runner 2.
Do both Wave Runners include delivery and setup?
Yes. Delivery, professional setup, takedown, a commercial blower, ground tarp, anchoring and cleaning are included.
Can Wave Runner 2 fit in a smaller yard?
Generally yes. At 27′ × 10′ it needs less room than Wave Runner 1. Send us a photo or measurements and we will confirm.
Can I use either slide dry?
Yes. Both run wet with a splash pool or dry. Confirm your preference when you book.
Ready to book? Call or text Sea Breeze Bouncers at 714-510-4499. Rated 5.0 across 43 Google reviews and serving all of Orange County.