Call them “party barges” or “floating living rooms,” but pontoon boats have emerged as one of the strongest segments of American boating, with one out of three new boats sold being a pontoon. These are, quite simply, designed for good times on the water.
Rectangular and flat-decked, pontoons—using either two or three (tri-toons) aluminum floats—offer stability and a shallow draft thanks to outboard power. The spacious decks and immense stability make them perfect for all generations perfect for all generations (even ‘Aunt Edna’ can step aboard from a dock without climbing over seats). The flat deck also makes them ideal for strollers and wheelchairs, while manufacturers offer endless layout choices that combine couches, lounges and sun pads with ample walk-around space.
On Sylvan and Starcraft pontoons, a stretch-out sun pad morphs into a bar with four stools for entertaining, while the Lillipad 23 features a full diving board for cannonball fun. Several others feature twisty waterslides that turn the boat into a floating waterpark. Anglers aren’t forgotten—the Lowe LF232 includes a fish-cleaning station and two premium fishing seats.
With built-in grills, sinks and refrigerators, you can serve steaks and burgers for a crowd, making these perfect for on-water barbecue parties. Fido isn’t forgotten either—many models feature slide-out trays for food and water bowls to keep pets happy.
An onboard head, often optional but worth considering, is a smart choice for long outings. Usually tucked into a console, it provides a private marine toilet and enough space to change out of a wet bathing suit.
Power options vary, with most pontoons offering single or twin outboards. The Manitou Explore 26, a tri-toon, tops out past 60 mph, proving that pontoons can have enough punch to tow water toys and even skiers, along with get-home speed if the weather turns.
For Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer, their raft on the Mississippi symbolized friendship and freedom—and that’s exactly what boating families are finding on today’s pontoon boats.
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