Hasnt been a problem for parties...I leave it in. Most people just comment about the neato whirlpool thingy and leave it be.

It sticks out about 10" maybe? 1ft max.

Detatches easilly enough without any tools in a few seconds but I havn't had to bother. Also comes with a little stick that keeps the automatic pool cleaner's cord from interfering so I dont bother removing it for that either.