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Buying the Right Pontoon Boat

May. 27 2022 Buying Guide By Shoreline Boat Center

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There’s nothing like spending a gorgeous day out on your very own boat, and few boats are as comfortable and spacious as a pontoon! But this family of boats encompasses a lot of shapes, sizes, and features, so it can be hard finding the right make and model for your needs. 

We here at Shoreline Boat Center want to help you get the perfect vessel for your maritime needs, so we’ve put together some tips on getting the right pontoon boat, below. To learn more, or to see the pontoon boats we have for sale, contact our store in Green Lake, Wisconsin, today!

What Are “Pontoons?”

While the boats that use them are sometimes called pontoons, the term actually refers to the hollow tubes that make up a pontoon boat’s hull. Typical pontoons have two of these tubes, though tritoons have three.

If you’re a stickler for details, you may want to consider the size of the pontoons themselves when buying a pontoon boat. Most often these tubs have a diameter of around 23-25 inches, which will work just fine for most boaters. Larger pontoons may have a diameter of between 27-28 inches, however, which increases the boat’s buoyancy and allows to handle more weight and sit higher on the water.

The Intended Use

Pontoons as a category can do just about anything there is to do on the water, but different boats will have features that make them better at different activities.

For dedicated anglers, you’re looking for:

  • Layouts with easy access to all sides of the boat
  • Accessories like a livewell and rod holders
  • Slip-resistant vinyl floors rather than carpet

If you’re planning to tow watersports enthusiasts, look for:

  • Higher engine power
  • A good and potentially-customizable wake
  • Storage room for watersports accessories and toys

For the pontoon boat that’s more of a swimming platform than tool, seek out:

  • Sun loungers or swim decks
  • Improved and more numerous ladders for easy access
  • Slides for extra fun

Number of Passengers

Next, consider the average size of the group you plan to take out on the water with you. You want to find a balance between accommodating everyone you’ll be bringing and overpaying for space you won’t be needing. Try to keep everyone from getting cramped without getting more boat than you really want.

For a general guideline:

  • 1-5 passengers will need a pontoon boat up to 20’ long
  • 6-10 passengers will need one that’s 20-24’ long
  • 10 or more passengers will need one that’s 24’ or longer

Ready to get started? Contact us at Shoreline Boat Center for more information, or to see the pontoon boats we have for sale. We proudly serve the people of Oshkosh, Fond du Lac, and Ripon, Wisconsin—let us serve you today!