Thinking About Buying a Pontoon Boat? Here’s What to Know
Pontoon boats have come a long way from their humble beginnings, now offering everything from simple, family-friendly cruisers to fully-equipped luxury platforms for entertaining, fishing, and water sports. Whether you’re planning lazy afternoons on calm inland lakes, hosting gatherings on the water, or casting lines from a spacious deck, there’s a pontoon setup to match. But with so many variations in size, performance, layout, and features, choosing the right one can be daunting. Below is a breakdown of the key factors to consider—covering design types, usage scenarios, handling, durability, pricing, and more—to help you find the perfect pontoon for your lifestyle on the water.
Types of Pontoon Boats: Choosing Your Boat.
Pontoon boats fall into three main categories: Leisure & Cruising, Fishing, and Performance & Sport. Each is built for a different purpose—relaxing, angling, or water sports—but many models offer crossover features. Understanding these differences (and where they overlap) helps you choose the right setup for your time on the water.
Leisure/Cruising Pontoons
Top of the range
Best for: Calm lakes, rivers, bays, entertaining, family outings, and relaxing day trips
General size: 6m – 8.5m
Features: Plush seating, loungers, tables, bimini tops, sound systems, LED lighting, optional bars, kitchen or toilets
Price range: $40,000 – $150,000+
Popular brands: Bennington, Harris, Barletta, Avalon, Sylvan, Manitou
Fishing Pontoons
Typically fishing/cruising hybrid
Best for: Lakes, rivers, estuaries, and calm inshore waters; ideal for freshwater and light saltwater fishing
General size: 5.5m – 7.3m
Features: Livewells, rod holders, swivel fishing chairs, tackle storage, fish finders, easy-to-clean decks
Price range: $25,000 – $80,000+
Popular brands: Sun Tracker, Lowe, Crestliner, Sylvan, Ranger, Avalon
Performance & Sport Pontoons
High powered boat
Best for: Watersports, coastal runs, rougher lakes, fast cruising, and larger groups
General size: 6.7m – 9.1m
Features: Triple-tube (tritoon) hulls, high-horsepower engines (150–300hp+), reinforced structure, upgraded steering and handling, optional ski tow bars and performance packages
Price range: $50,000 – $180,000+
Popular brands: Manitou, Bennington, Premier, Avalon, Crest, Harris
Did you know: Pontoon boats float on air, not hulls – Unlike traditional boats that rely on a solid hull to displace water, pontoons stay afloat using hollow aluminium tubes (or “pontoons”) filled with air.
Before You Buy: Key Considerations
Before buying, consider how and where you’ll use the boat—these factors are key to choosing the right fit and avoid buyers remorse.
- Primary Use: Choose a pontoon that suits your main activity—whether it’s cruising with family, fishing, entertaining, or watersports.
- Design & Layout: Look for features that match your needs, like livewells and rod holders for fishing, or plush seating and bars for leisure.
- Size/Capacity: Make sure the boat can comfortably handle your typical group size, gear, and any extras like coolers or tow toys.
- Toon Configuration: Standard two-tube models are ideal for calm waters, while triple-tube (tritoon) setups offer better speed and handling.
- Performance vs Comfort: Balance luxury features with handling and power, especially if you plan to tow, cruise at speed, or navigate choppier water.
- Budget: Factor in the full cost—boat, motor, trailer, accessories, fuel, and maintenance—to find the right fit for your lifestyle and wallet.
Accessories You’ll Likely Need
Owning an pontoon isn’t just about the boat, it’s the whole kit. Some accessories are mandatory, others just make boating better.
Boat Cover or Enclosure: Protects your pontoon from the elements when not in use.
Trailer or Boat Dolly: Essential for transporting your pontoon between waterways or for storage.
Safety Equipment: Life jackets, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and emergency distress signals are a must.
Anchor System: A reliable anchor complete with chain and rope helps you secure your boat safely.
Docking Lines and Fenders: These assist with safe docking and protect your pontoon from damage when moored.
Bimini Top or Canopy: Provides shade and shelter, enhancing comfort during long days on the water.
Storage Solutions: Coolers, dry bags, or custom-built storage compartments to keep essentials organized and secure.
Maintenance Kits: Marine soap, brushes, wax, and a bilge pump help maintain your boat’s appearance and functionality.
Maintenance & Care Tips
Pontoon boats are built for fun, but they still need regular upkeep. Routine cleaning, engine checks, and deck care will keep your boat running smoothly, looking great, and ready for every outing.
Rinse After Every Trip
Salt and grime can corrode metal and damage upholstery. Give your pontoon a fresh water rinse after each use—especially if you’ve been in saltwater.
Protect the Upholstery
UV rays and moisture wear down seats fast. Use seat covers or a full boat cover when not in use, and clean with marine-safe vinyl cleaner.
Inspect the Tubes
Check pontoons for dents, leaks, or algae build-up. Even small issues can affect buoyancy or fuel efficiency over time.
Stay on Top of Engine Maintenance
Regularly check oil levels, fuel filters, and the propeller. Follow your manufacturer’s service schedule to keep performance sharp.
Check Electrical Systems
Test navigation lights, gauges, battery terminals, and wiring often. Corrosion or loose connections can sneak up quickly in marine environments.
Keep the Deck Clean & Sealed
Sweep off debris and wash the deck with non-slip cleaner. If your deck is wood, seal it annually to prevent water damage and rot.
Warranty & Brand Reputation
When it comes to pontoon boats, appearance can be deceiving. Two boats might look alike on the surface, but the difference in build quality, materials, and long-term reliability often comes down to the brand behind them. A well-established manufacturer typically offers stronger warranties and more responsive customer support—something bargain brands often fall short on.
Investing in a reputable brand isn’t just about name recognition—it’s about protecting your purchase. Here’s what to focus on when reviewing warranties:
– Toon Construction: Marine-grade aluminium pontoons should be backed by a multi-year warranty against leaks, corrosion, or structural failure.
– Deck & Frame: Look for coverage against warping, water intrusion, and weld issues—especially in high-moisture environments.
– Upholstery & Electronics: Quality seating and factory-installed electronics should come with separate, clearly defined coverage.
– Engine Warranty: Often handled separately, but critical to review—especially on higher-horsepower performance models.
Choosing a trusted brand with solid warranty support gives you peace of mind—and helps maintain your boat’s value over time.
The Smart Way to Buy a Pontoon Boat
A pontoon boat isn’t just a floating lounge—it’s your platform for adventure, relaxation, or reeling in the catch of the day. But not all pontoons are built the same. From laid-back cruisers to high-powered tritoons, the right choice depends on how you use the water, not just how it looks on the trailer.
Before buying, think beyond size and price. Consider performance, layout, and durability—then choose a boat that fits your lifestyle, not just your wish list. Get it right, and your pontoon becomes more than a boat—it becomes your go-to escape.
FAQs
What’s the difference between a pontoon and a tritoon?
A pontoon has two tubes (pontoons), while a tritoon has three. The third tube adds better stability, speed, and handling—ideal for rougher water or watersports.
Are pontoon boats good for saltwater use?
Yes, but only if properly equipped. Choose models with saltwater-rated components, and rinse the boat thoroughly after each use to prevent corrosion.
How fast can pontoon boats go?
Speed depends on the engine and configuration. Basic pontoons average 15–25 mph, while tritoons with high-horsepower motors can exceed 40–60 mph.
Do pontoon boats handle rough water well?
Standard pontoons are best for calm lakes and rivers. For choppy conditions or coastal use, opt for a tritoon with a reinforced frame and more horsepower.
What size pontoon boat should I buy?
It depends on your typical group size and activities. For 2–6 people, 18–20 ft is often enough. For larger groups or added comfort, go with 22–26 ft. Bigger boats also handle rougher water better.
Are pontoon boats easy to trailer and launch?
Yes, they’re relatively easy to trailer with the right setup. However, their wide stance requires a larger trailer and tow vehicle. Launching is straightforward, but you’ll need a wide enough ramp and good depth.
Do pontoon boats require a lot of maintenance?
Not compared to many other boats. Routine cleaning, engine servicing, and inspecting electrical and pontoon tubes are usually enough. Upholstery and decking also need seasonal care.
Are pontoons cheaper than other boats?
It depends on what you’re comparing them to. Entry-level pontoon boats are often more affordable than similarly sized fiberglass bowriders or deck boats, especially when considering maintenance and operating costs. However, high-end or performance pontoons (like tritoons with big motors and luxury features) can be just as expensive—or even more—than traditional boats.
In short:
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Yes, pontoons can be cheaper at the entry level.
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No, they’re not always cheaper when comparing premium or high-performance models.
Let me know if you’d like a price comparison chart between pontoon types and other common boat styles.