Pontoon Boats 101: Everything You Need to Know
If you haven’t noticed the pontoon boat renaissance that is sweeping across boat shows around the nation, you must have been hiding under a dock.
There are vast amounts of pontoon boats for sale in Alberta to right across Canada & the USA at the boat shows
In 2015, the sales of pontoon boats at the International Boatbuilder’s Exhibition rose by 48%. This rise far outpaces the other recreational watercraft in the leisure category. So what’s the big deal?
When you are considering buying a pontoon boat, the selection of features, sizes, and options is astounding. Thanks to new advances in tube design, boatbuilding materials, fabrics, and engines, pontoons have become much more than the relatively slow party barges they are known as.
Today, these boats are being used by water sport and fishing enthusiasts alike. With some boats reaching speeds in the 60s, pontoon boat offers you more recreational activities than ever before.
Keep reading to find out more about the recent changes in these amazing watercraft and how they are changing the lives of boaters all over the world.
Defining the Pontoon
In a general sense, pontoons are boats that have large, flat decks. The decks are mounted on top of two or three metal tubes referred to as the pontoons.
Due to the buoyancy of the tubes, designers of these types of boats are able to create massive decks with expansive lounge areas, sun pads, waterslides, and bars. These features are great for large parties or long days on the water.
And with recent innovations in tube design, pontoon boats are able to hit higher speeds than ever as builders find ways to increase the amount of horsepower they can handle.
Construction
A basic design starts with two plain, round tubes that come to a point at the front of the boat. They are typically made of marine-grade aluminum that has been welded. Within the tubes, you will find the fuel tanks as well as a place to store your belongings.
On top of the tubes, manufacturers weld support channels for the deck using cross beams. This creates a rigid structure that the deck will be mounted on giving the boat its rigid ride and feel.
The deck is typically made of plywood that has been covered with carpet or vinyl but keep in mind higher end pontoon manufactures are starting to use composite floors. Then, aluminum side panels are put around the deck as fencing for safety. Finally, the seats, helm, and mechanical systems are put in place.
Once the engine has been put on, it is ready to hit the showroom floor.
Questions to Ask About Construction
When you are looking at the construction of a boat, you will want to find out about any warranties that cover the tubes, deck, engine, and other components.
Some other good questions to ask include:
- How are the tubes made?
- How is the support structure engineered?
- How do you waterproof the deck?
- How long do the boats last on the water?
This video below is a great reference on pontoon boat construction
Considering Your Options
Pontoon boats are great because they offer you so many ways to customize. Manufacturers will typically build your vessel in a variety of different seating configurations with different add-ons depending on what you plan to use the boat for.
In fact, you may find yourself overwhelmed by all the different ways you can make your boat your own. So let’s explore some of the most popular customization options.
Interior/Exterior Packages
Since pontoon boats have such a modular design, they have a lot of options when it comes to layouts and schemes. You will also have a ton of different upholstery and fabric options as well as floor coverings and graphics packages.
To contend with all of these options, it is a good idea to hit the manufacturers website before you go to showroom so that you can price out exactly the features you want.
Engines
From 14 to 30 footers, every model of pontoon boat comes standard with an engine that anyone would find lacking. Most people choose to upgrade the engine on their boats.
Questions to consider regarding engines include:
- How fast are you trying to go?
- How much fuel are you willing to use?
- What uses will you have for the boat?
- Do you need a specific motor transom height?
You can find a lot of information on engines available online. By analyzing the data on different engines, you will be able to find the right one to fit your needs.
Performance Packages
Performance packages could include an additional tube or just larger tubes. Some tubes also are shaped specially for better handling.
With the add-on of a performance package, your boat will have additional buoyancy. This allows you to fit it with a larger engine so that you can go faster.
Electronics and Sound
The base package for a pontoon boat does not typically offer extensive marine electronics. But if you are looking for chart plotters, depth sensors, touch panel controls, and other gear, then you are going to need to purchase an electronics package.
The stereo is another place you may want to spend some money. These kinds of boats are made for partying and the right sound system can take your gathering to the next level. Try pairing nice speakers with an LED lighting package to really turn up the party.
Various Types of Pontoons
Though some people keep their pontoons in coastal areas, they are most often used on lakes and rivers for a variety of different activities. Let’s look at some of the most popular styles and explore their design.
Performance Pontoons
If you are looking for a boat with a lot of speed, then you need a boat that has a lot of horsepower on its stern. Some of the boats you can find have as much as 900 horsepower.
If you pair this horsepower with a performance package for your pontoons, then you can reach some serious speed while making tight turns.
Watersport Pontoons
Yes, that’s right, you can now use a pontoon boat to tow tubers, water skiers, and wakeboarders. All you need is enough horsepower and something to be used as a towing pole or mount.
But if you are really serious about your watersports, there is a class of pontoons made just for you. They have sports arches with mounts for towlines and brackets for you to store boards and skis as well as exciting graphics and interiors to keep up with the vibe.
Luxury Pontoons
A luxury pontoon is all about maximizing the comfort of riders. They often have high-quality furnishings with buttery upholstery and seating that makes you feel like you’re sitting on a cloud.
Other luxury features might include:
- Joystick steering
- Twin engines
- Oversized chaise lounges
- Stand-up bars
- LED lighting
- Fun fencing schemes
Fishing Pontoons
If you want to use your boat for fishing, then fear not. These boats are incredible for a day on the water. They feature lots of deck space which means more room for live wells and fishing poles as well as other tackle equipment.
And since the pontoon boat sits so high on the water, you will be able to take it into shallow waters without fear allowing you to maximize the variety of your fishing capabilities.
Family Fun Pontoons
For a boat to be considered a member of the family fun class, it has to offer great options for relaxing, exploring, and towing tubes. It will also have lots of space for lounging and a sensible layout that keeps comfort as the focus.
If you are trying to use the boat for outings with the whole family, you should make sure it has enough storage and cooler space for all your needs.
Value Pontoons
Some people just want a solid boat that won’t drain their bank account. There are a ton of models for them to choose from when it comes to pontoons.
It is possible to put together a perfectly capable, comfy pontoon boat that will give the customer hours of fun at a reasonable price.
Disadvantages of Pontoon Boats
This style of boat is not for everyone. For example, if you are looking to get into racing, then you’re probably looking in the wrong spot.
They also don’t handle very well in rough water. If a very large wave hits them they can dive down instead of riding it which may cause the vessel to dive. So if you plan on heading out to sea, then you should consider another option.
Also, if you are looking to use your boat for wakeboarding or waterskiing, you will notice that the pontoons have a wake of their own making the wake less steep.
This means that you may not be able to get as much air as you are used to.
Where to Buy A Pontoon Boat
Pontoon boats are a great choice for most people looking to begin enjoying some time on the water without emptying their wallet. They give you the opportunity to spend your money on the features you want with their customization options.
Before you buy you should be sure you do your research to find out what kind of size you need as well as what engine you want to purchase. You also need to know what types of boat financing options are available and what you qualify for. If you are looking for help selecting the pontoon boat of your dreams, contact us today.