Many boaters today prefer using pontoon boats because they provide the perfect opportunity for leisurely cruising, fishing, or spending quality time with family and friends on the water. The unique design of the pontoon boat featuring two or more hollow, buoyant tubes, also called pontoons in addition to a flat deck provides ample stability making it ideal for relaxing on the water. If you have been considering buying a new boat, understanding the advantages and disadvantages of pontoon boats will help you determine if this is the right vessel for your requirements.
What Are Pontoon Boats?
Some of the main features of the most common hull form in the world, pontoon boats, are wide, flat decks that are constructed using one or more bound pontoons. These hollow structures serve dual purpose by acting as the primary source of buoyancy for the boat while stabilizing it through rough waters. Different types of pontoon boats are known for their spacious decks, comfortable seating, and mid range price which gives them their charm for many customers.
From lounge chairs to tables on offer, many pontoon boats have additional features that accommodate rest and leisure activities on the boat. The most sophisticated of the larger models also offer kitchens and bathrooms. Some types are focused on providing an exceptional fishing experience, and others concentrate on cruising or providing a performance in water sports. They are often seen on rivers and lakes and are well known for the calm and relaxing atmosphere they provide.
Pros of Pontoon Boats
- Stability: One of the biggest advantages pontoon boats have is their unparalleled stability. They are less prone to tipping or rocking, even in turbulent waters, because of their wide deck and multiple pontoons. This is especially reassuring for families with young kids, older people, and anyone else who may be uncomfortable in smaller, more unstable boats.
- Spacious and Comfortable: With pontoon boats, passengers have adequate free deckspace, to socialize, relax, or partake in different water-related activities. Their generous deck space makes them perfect for get-togethers, picnics, and family outings. Most other pontoon boats also come equipped with comfortable seating arrangements that include recliners, benches, and tables enabling the passengers to relax and enjoy the ride.
- Versatility: Pontoon boats offer one of the most diverse functionalities. They are ideal for fishing, waterskiing, tubing, cruising, or just relaxing. A number of pontoon boats also come equipped with fishing stations, built-in coolers, and even sound systems. Some are even fully customizable, allowing you to add different accessories and tailor the boat to your preferred activities.
- Ease of Handling: Compared to other types of boats, pontoon boats are relatively easy to handle. Because of their slow speed and stable nature, they are ideal for beginners or those who do not yet feel confident in their boating skills. They are also relatively simple to steer, especially while docking or navigating through small areas.
- Cost-effective: Pontoon boats are often more affordable than other types of boats. Their upfront costs as well as their maintenance costs tend to be lower than other types of boats. Additionally, insurance, fuel, and, in turn, overall cost savings makes pontoon boats a budget friendly option to consider.
Cons of Pontoon Boats
- Slow Speed and Performance: Although pontoon boats are perfect for a relaxing stroll, they are not created for any speed or form of performance. In case you enjoy fast paced activities or require a boat for wakeboarding or water skiing, then pontoon boats are not for you. Pontoons are all about comfort and not at all about performing.
- Less Ability To Steer in Rough Waters: Because they are wide and flat, pontoon boats are not suitable for strong winds or rough waters. While calm waters make them stable, these boats tend to struggle with high waves and windy weather. If your ankles are not thick enough to take the hit, it is best to avoid coastal and open water conditions that have unreliable weather because it would not be a wise idea to buy the pontoon boat.
- Can Aid Limited Storage Space: Used along with a large deck area, storage space becomes rather limited. Depending on the model, it may be difficult to store away fishing equipment, gear, and other essentials. Larger pontoon boats usually have built-in storage spaces, but smaller models leave very little space for your belongings.
- Weight and Dimensions: In general, pontoon boats tend to be larger and heavier than other boats of different kinds, which makes these vessels quite complicated to transport without a larger vehicle to tow it. Furthermore, the sheer size of the boat limits the vessel’s ability to traverse through tight canals or narrow waterways, particularly, if you intend to scout out little lakes or petite rivers.
- Not Perfect for Overnight Use: While some pontoon boats do come with basic features like small cabins or bathrooms, these vessels are not intended for use during the night or for extended cruising. Because there is no enclosed living area, pontoon boats are meant for day trips only, and these vessels do not provide easy comfort nor protect from the environment like larger boater-type vessels with full-sized cabins do.
Is a Pontoon Boat Right for You?
For individuals and families who want to go leisurely out on the water, pontoon boats are an excellent choice. They provide stable and comfortable platforms for activities such as fishing, cruising, or simply being outdoors. However, if you are looking for extreme pontoon boating, fast speeds, or extensive overnight cruising, a pontoon boat may not be the ideal option.
Ultimately whether a pontoon boat is right for you depends on your priorities and how you intend to utilize the boat. If your goals include relaxation, socializing, spending time in the water with family or friends, a pontoon boat is great. However, if you are seeking for a boat that is an all rounder in terms of speed, performance, and adaptability towards a variety of conditions, you may want to consider other options.
In conclusion, personality being a priority for many boaters, pontoon boats offer a great option on comfort, stability, and versatility. However they also have their limits when using them for performance and weather handling which should be taken into account before making your decision. You may find that these advantages combined with the possible drawbacks make pontoon boats the ideal choice for your lifestyle.
