5 Disadvantages of Pontoon Boats
- Speed. Pontoon boats can go over 100mph (160kph) in extreme circumstances, but most pontoon boats sit right around the 28 – 35 mile per hour mark if you have a 90hp engine or faster (and an overall length under 24′).
- Rough Water.
- Wake Shape.
- Handling.
- Outboard Noise.
Why is it called a pontoon?
The word stems from the Latin pontonem, “flat-bottomed boat,” and its root pons, or “bridge.”
How much money is a pontoon?
The price of pontoon boats can range from as low as $20,000 to as high as $175,000. For example, you can get an 18-foot 60-HP G3 Suncatcher pontoon fishing boat for only $20,000. If you want a trendier pontoon boat, you can get the 27-foot 400-HP Harris Crowne DL 250 for about $150,000.
What is a pontoon boat good for?
Pontoons are perfect for large crowds, kiddos, families with pets, and the list goes on. They can also accommodate other functions depending on the floorplan and engine such as fishing, entertaining bar side, and some water sports. There’s literally a pontoon boat for just about any on-water outing.
What are the disadvantages of a pontoon boat? – Related Questions
Do pontoons flip easy?
It is almost impossible to flip a pontoon boat, whether a bitoon or a tritoon. Their unique design makes them almost incapable of flipping over, with reports of such incidents happening being very rare.
Are pontoons high maintenance?
Pontoon boats have a few key characteristics that make them inherently lower maintenance than other boats on the market. They are a lot less delicate, and they are not going to rust as easily.
Can a pontoon boat go in the ocean?
Thanks to modern design and technology, as well as advancements in both materials and construction, the answer to the original question — can you take your pontoon boat into open waters — is a resounding yes.
Are pontoon boats worth the money?
A pontoon boat is a great purchase for a family, people who fish, or those looking for versatility. Because of the space and safety, families can be comfortable bringing small children aboard and can entertain lots of their kids’ friends as well.
Can you sleep overnight on a pontoon boat?
In recent years there has been an increase in demand for hybrid pontoon boats you can sleep on, with a few manufacturers now releasing models that come with cabins and sleeping quarters.
Is a pontoon a good first boat?
There are many advantages to choosing a pontoon boat, including safety and versatility. They’re also very easy to handle and beginner-friendly, making them an excellent choice for any boat owner, whether it’s your first boat or your next boat.
How deep of water do you need for a pontoon boat?
Two feet of depth is considered safe for an experienced boater to handle a pontoon boat, though three feet is advisable.
How long does a pontoon last?
Pontoon boats may last for 10–20 years if they’re new and if you take good care of them. If your pontoon boat is bought used, I can’t say the same. A lot of other aspects also go into consideration, including the brand, material, maintenance, and whether you use it in saltwater or freshwater.
What size pontoon is best?
Generally, a 17 to 19-foot pontoon boat is best for small bodies of water that tend to be calmer. These boats are great for entertaining groups of up to eight people. 20 to 22-foot boats are well suited for lakes and rivers that do not have large waves. The mid-sized boats are well equipped to seat up to 13 passengers.
Do pontoon boats use a lot of gas?
The average pontoon boat will consume around 5 gallons per hour at cruising speed. This means that a five hour trip out on the water will take 25 gallons of gas.
How fast will a 150 hp pontoon boat go?
How Fast Can A 150 HP Pontoon Boat Go? A 150 HP motor on a pontoon boat has an average top speed of 38.2 MPH, but speeds range from 35 MPH to 43.7 MPH.
Are pontoons cheaper than boats?
Cost. In general, a deck boat will be more expensive than a pontoon boat. However, more luxurious pontoon models will begin to approach price point similar to that of a deck boat. And, depending on what type of engine you choose for either, that alone could cost up to 50% of the price of the boat itself.
How fast can a pontoon boat go?
Although boat operators do not immediately think of pontoons when seeking top speeds, the max speed of pontoon boats is decent, ranging between 17 to 25 miles per hour.
Are pontoon boats safe?
Pontoon Boat Is Very Safe
Pontoon boats are much safer than others because there are less “don’t go there” parts on the boat. Fence with high rails on a boat reduces chances of falling over into the water. The weight of pontoon boats makes them extra safe.
Do pontoon boats plane out?
Pontoon boats plane out quickly because they’re already sitting on top of the water. The toons, wave tamers, and nosecones take the brunt of the chop and act much like shocks in a car leaving you with a smooth ride. Deck boats plane out quickly as well due to their V-Hull style bow and flat stern hull.
What is the most popular size pontoon boat?
It’s important to know that every brand is different so there’s not a set rule on what length equals what capacity. The most common lengths offered are 20-25′ pontoon boats.