Six tips to help you decide what style of pontoon boat is right for you

Are you a relaxed cruiser, an enthusiastic angler, a watersports fan, or someone who loves entertaining in style? Matching a boat’s layout, size, hull design, and features to your priorities will ensure it fits your needs perfectly.

1. Determine what your main activities will be

• Leisure and Cruising: Choose a classic pontoon with spacious lounges and open decks for comfort and socializing.
• Fishing: Look for a fishing pontoon with features like rod holders, live wells, captain’s chairs, and open decks suited for casting.
• Watersports: If you want to tow skis, tubes, or wakeboard, consider a tritoon (three tubes) for extra speed and stability or a performance pontoon with powerful engines and wake-enhancing options.
• Family Fun: Lounge-style or quad seating floorplans offer plenty of comfortable seating and safety, great for kids and large groups.
• Luxury and Entertaining: Higher-end trim levels with premium finishes, wet bars, upper decks, and entertainment systems add style and amenities for upscale experiences.

2. Determine the size of your crew

• Matching the size of your typical group to the capacity of the boat will ensure you’ll have enough space without overspending on a boat that is too big. Smaller pontoons fit about 8 people, mid-size up to 13, and larger ones up to 15 or more.

3. Choose Your Floorplan

• Floorplans with rear lounges that convert to daybeds are perfect for sunbathing, whereas quad seating provides a space that is more conducive for conversations.

4. Select the Hull Type: Pontoon vs Tritoon

• Standard pontoon boats have two tubes, providing excellent stability for leisurely cruising. For calm lakes and rivers, basic pontoons are fine.
• Tritoon boats have three tubes for better performance, faster speeds, enhanced handling, and greater towing power, which is also ideal for watersports. For larger bodies of water or more active use, consider tritoons.

5. Review Trim Levels and Customization

• Just like cars, pontoon boats come in various trim packages or series levels, which can include more features, upgraded materials, and better performance options.
• Decide which amenities matter most within your budget, such as sound systems, sunshades or upgraded controls.

6. Test Drive and Virtual Build Tools

• Use manufacturer online build tools to explore options and visualize your custom pontoon.
• Whenever possible, test drive different models to get a feel for size, handling, and comfort. If you’re still unsure trying out different rentals can provide hands-on insights!