Finding Your Perfect Pontoon: The Complete Buyer’s Guide
Looking for a pontoon boat buying guide? Here’s a quick overview of the key factors to consider:
- Primary Use: Decide if you’ll mainly use it for cruising, fishing, watersports, or entertaining
- Size & Layout: Choose based on typical passenger count and activities (16-30 feet)
- Tubes: Standard twin-tube or performance tritoon (three tubes)
- Engine: Match horsepower (9.9-400 HP) to your intended activities
- Features: Select fishing packages, seating configurations, or watersports add-ons
- Budget: Factor in purchase price plus ongoing costs (insurance, maintenance, storage)
Pontoon boats have surged in popularity for good reason—they’re incredibly versatile, family-friendly vessels that maximize space and comfort on the water. Unlike traditional V-hull boats, pontoons use hollow aluminum tubes for buoyancy, supporting a spacious, customizable deck above.
The rectangular layout offers more usable space than other boat types of similar length, making pontoons ideal for everything from relaxed family cruising to serious fishing expeditions. Modern pontoons have evolved far beyond the slow, boxy platforms of the past—today’s models can be equipped for impressive performance, with triple-tube designs and powerful engines capable of pulling wakeboarders or reaching speeds over 40 mph.
Whether you’re a first-time boat buyer or looking to upgrade, this guide will walk you through every consideration to match you with the perfect pontoon for your lifestyle, waterways, and budget.
Basic Pontoon boat buying guide vocab:
Why Read This Guide?
If you’re considering joining the pontoon community, you’re probably overwhelmed by choices. With countless models, configurations, and features available, first-time buyers often find themselves unsure where to start. That’s exactly why we created this comprehensive pontoon boat buying guide.
By the end of this article, you’ll have the confidence to make an informed decision that matches your specific needs. We’ll walk you through every aspect of pontoon boat selection, from understanding the basics to finalizing your purchase. Think of this as your roadmap to finding the perfect pontoon boat for your lifestyle.
Pros & Ideal Uses of Pontoon Boats
Pontoon boats are often called the “SUVs of the water,” and for good reason. Their unique design offers several distinct advantages that make them perfect for a variety of activities.
Advantages vs. Other Boat Types
When you step aboard a pontoon boat, the first thing you’ll notice is the incredible amount of space. No other boat type carries more people for its length than a pontoon. That rectangular deck design isn’t just for looks—it maximizes every inch of usable space, giving your family room to spread out and relax.
The exceptional stability is another game-changer. Those wide, flat aluminum tubes create a platform that barely rocks, even when everyone rushes to one side to see a jumping fish. As Maria, a recent Blackbeard Marine customer, told us, “I always got queasy on my brother’s speedboat, but our pontoon feels like standing on a floating living room—I can actually enjoy being on the water now!”
Family-friendliness is built into the DNA of pontoon boats. The gates keep little ones secure, the flat deck makes moving around safe and easy, and the simple boarding design is perfect for everyone from toddlers to grandparents. “I switched from a bowrider to a pontoon when my family grew, and I’ll never go back,” says James, a pontoon owner from Kingston. “The gates keep my toddlers secure, there’s room for everyone, and the flat deck is perfect for my elderly parents to board easily.”
Love exploring those hidden spots on the lake? The shallow draft of pontoons—often just 12-18 inches—lets you glide into secluded coves and pull up to beaches that deeper V-hull boats can only dream of reaching.
The versatility of modern pontoons is truly impressive. From fishing-focused layouts with livewells and rod holders to luxury cruisers with premium sound systems and plush seating, there’s a pontoon design for every lake lifestyle. And speaking of lifestyle, the low maintenance requirements of aluminum tubes compared to fiberglass hulls means more time enjoying the water and less time cleaning and waxing.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While I love recommending pontoons to most of our customers at Blackbeard Marine, honesty is important—they’re not perfect for every situation.
Rough water limitations are probably the biggest consideration. Standard twin-tube pontoons prefer calm lakes and protected waterways. While tritoons (three-tube designs) handle chop much better, if you regularly boat in big waves, you might want to consider other options.
That tall, flat profile that gives you so much space also creates wind sensitivity. On blustery days, your pontoon can catch the wind like a sail, making it more challenging to dock or hold position while fishing.
You’ll also notice a wider turning radius than other boat types. It’s not a deal-breaker by any means, but something to be aware of when navigating tight spaces.
For the financially-minded, pontoons typically experience about 25% depreciation after the first couple years of ownership. This is worth considering if you tend to upgrade your boats frequently.
And while performance has improved dramatically in recent years, standard twin-tube pontoons generally aren’t as speed-focused as comparable fiberglass boats. That said, high-performance tritoons with sufficient horsepower can reach impressive speeds that might surprise you.
Ideal Uses for Pontoon Boats
Where pontoons truly shine is in their versatility on the water. Leisure cruising is perhaps what they do best—that comfortable seating and stable platform creates the perfect setting for relaxed tours around Oklahoma’s beautiful lakes.
If you love entertaining, few boat styles can match a pontoon’s natural talent as a floating party platform. With spacious decks, ample seating, and features like built-in tables and premium sound systems, your pontoon becomes the most popular destination on the lake.
Fishing enthusiasts appreciate the stable casting platform and specialized features like rod holders, livewells, and dedicated fishing stations. You can comfortably fish from any position without worrying about rocking the boat.
Modern performance pontoons excel at swimming and watersports too. With the right engine package, they can pull tubes, skiers, and wakeboarders with surprising power. Many feature swim platforms, ladders, and even water slides that make them swimming destinations in themselves.
And don’t forget beaching! Pontoons excel at pulling up to sandbars or shorelines for picnics and swimming. “We love taking our pontoon to a remote sandbar for birthday parties,” shares Oklahoma pontoon owner Sarah. “It’s like having a private beach club.”
Safety always comes first on the water, of course. The U.S. Coast Guard requires appropriate life jackets for all passengers, with specific requirements for children depending on your state. At Blackbeard Marine, we’re happy to walk you through all the safety equipment you’ll need for your new pontoon trip.
Pontoon Boat Buying Guide Checklist
Now that you understand the advantages of pontoon boats, let’s dive into the specific factors to consider when shopping for your perfect pontoon.
Pontoon boat buying guide for selecting size & layout
When it comes to finding your ideal pontoon, size truly matters. Most pontoons range from 16 to 30 feet, but the right choice depends on your specific needs.
If you’re a couple or small family, a 16-19 foot pontoon gives you cozy comfort for 2-6 passengers while being easy to trailer and store. Moving up to a 20-22 footer strikes that sweet spot for many buyers, comfortably hosting 8-10 people with good maneuverability. Larger families or frequent entertainers might prefer a 23-25 foot model that accommodates 10-12 passengers with extra amenities. True luxury seekers can explore 26+ foot options with all the bells and whistles for 12 or more guests.
One of our customers recently shared her experience: “We initially thought we needed the biggest pontoon we could find for our family of six, but after measuring our dock space and considering our storage options, we realized a 22-footer was perfect for us. It’s easier to handle and still has plenty of room.”
Beyond length, consider what you’ll be doing on your pontoon. A cruise layout prioritizes comfortable seating with L-shaped lounges and sunpads. Anglers should look at a fish layout with swivel chairs and livewells, while those wanting the best of both worlds might choose a fish & cruise hybrid. Party hosts will appreciate an entertainment layout with maximum seating and premium sound, while watersports enthusiasts need a watersport configuration with tow bars and rear-facing seats.
Before making your final decision, be sure to measure your dock space and storage area, check your vehicle’s towing capacity, and consider your typical passenger count. Bigger isn’t always better—larger pontoons need more fuel and can be trickier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Browse our extensive pontoon inventory to compare different sizes and layouts in person.
Pontoon vs. Tritoon: Which is Right for You?
One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between a traditional twin-tube pontoon and a tritoon (three-tube design). This choice affects nearly everything about your boating experience.
| Feature | Twin-Tube Pontoon | Tritoon (Three Tubes) |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | Good | Excellent |
| Rough Water Handling | Moderate | Good to Excellent |
| Maximum Horsepower | Typically up to 225 HP | Up to 400 HP or twin engines |
| Top Speed | 25-35 MPH | 35-60+ MPH |
| Turning Ability | Wider turning radius | Sharper, banks into turns |
| Weight Capacity | Good | Superior |
| Price | More affordable | Higher investment |
| Best For | Calm water, cruising, fishing | Rougher water, watersports, higher speeds |
Don’t overlook tube diameter when shopping—this seemingly small detail makes a big difference. Modern pontoons typically feature tubes between 23-27 inches in diameter, with larger tubes providing more buoyancy for heavier loads.
Many of today’s pontoons also include performance-enhancing features like lifting strakes that improve handling at higher speeds, under-deck skins to reduce drag, and streamlined nosecones that cut through water more efficiently. If you’re planning to do watersports or frequently steer choppier waters, these upgrades are worth considering.
Pontoon boat buying guide for engine & performance
Your engine choice dramatically shapes your pontoon experience, from leisurely cruises to thrilling watersports trips.
Most pontoons use outboard motors, which offer several advantages including easier maintenance, the ability to tilt completely out of the water when not in use (reducing corrosion), and a wide range of horsepower options to match your needs and budget.
Selecting the right horsepower depends on how you’ll use your boat. For basic cruising on small pontoons or horsepower-restricted lakes, a 9.9-25 HP engine will do the job. If you want comfortable cruising speeds with occasional tubing, look in the 40-90 HP range. For good all-around performance suitable for most watersports, a 115-150 HP engine hits the sweet spot. Serious performance seekers should consider 175-300 HP options, especially for larger pontoons. And for those wanting maximum thrills on a tritoon, engines 300 HP and above deliver exhilarating speed.
For specialized applications, high-thrust outboards offer better low-speed control and pushing power thanks to their larger propeller design.
Keep fuel consumption in mind during your selection process. A 150 HP outboard running at full throttle will consume approximately 15 gallons per hour—though your actual usage will likely be much lower during normal cruising.
As for speed expectations, a 25-40 HP engine typically delivers 10-15 MPH, 60-90 HP will get you 15-25 MPH, 115-150 HP reaches 25-35 MPH, while 200+ HP on a tritoon can hit an exhilarating 35-50+ MPH.
One customer shared his experience: “I initially went with a 90 HP engine to save money, but after a season of struggling to pull my kids on tubes, I upgraded to a 150 HP. The difference was night and day—not just in towing ability but in how the boat handled with a full load of passengers.”
Matching Features to Your Activities
The beauty of pontoon boats is their incredible customizability. Let’s match features to your favorite on-water activities.
If you’re a fishing enthusiast, look for pedestal fishing seats at the bow and stern, an aerated livewell for your bait and catch, convenient rod holders and tackle storage, a fish finder with GPS, and a trolling motor mount for precise positioning.
Watersports lovers should prioritize a ski tow bar or pylon, board racks for storage, rear-facing seating for spotters, upgraded horsepower (150+ HP recommended), and a performance package with lifting strakes for better handling.
For those who love entertaining and cruising, focus on L-shaped lounge seating, convertible tables, a premium sound system, refrigerator or cooler storage, a power Bimini top for shade, and perhaps a changing room or privacy enclosure.
If swimming and sunbathing top your agenda, features like an extended rear swim platform, heavy-duty boarding ladder, sunpad lounge areas, and possibly a slide or diving board on larger models will improve your enjoyment.
Boaters in saltwater environments should invest in saltwater-grade aluminum and hardware, anti-corrosion packages, and upgraded electrical systems with marine-grade components to protect their investment.
While factory packages often bundle popular features, our team at Blackbeard Marine can help you customize your pontoon to match your specific needs and water activities. We understand that every boater is unique, and your pontoon should reflect your personal boating style.
Budget & Ownership Costs
When budgeting for a pontoon boat, it’s important to consider not just the purchase price but also the ongoing costs of ownership.
Purchase Price Ranges
Pontoon boats span a wide range of price points depending on size, features, and performance:
Mid-Market Range: The majority of new pontoon boats fall between $18,000 and $60,000. This range includes boats from 18 to 25 feet with varying levels of features and engine options.
Luxury Models: High-end pontoons with premium features, maximum horsepower, and luxury appointments can exceed $100,000.
As with any major purchase, you’ll need to balance your wish list with your budget. One approach is to prioritize the features that matter most to your primary activities while being flexible on less essential items.
New vs. Used Cost Pros & Cons
New Pontoon Advantages:
- Full warranty coverage (typically 5-10 years on structural components)
- Latest technology and features
- Customization options
- No hidden issues from previous owners
- Dealer support and training
Used Pontoon Advantages:
- Lower initial investment
- Avoiding immediate depreciation (remember that 25% loss in the first couple years)
- Potentially more boat for your money
- Previous owner may have added valuable upgrades
If considering a used pontoon, always:
- Check for signs of tube damage or leaks
- Verify engine hours and maintenance records
- Test all systems (electrical, steering, pumps)
- Have the boat professionally inspected if possible
- Research the specific model’s reputation for reliability
Total Cost of Ownership
Beyond the purchase price, budget for these ongoing expenses:
Insurance: Annual boat insurance typically costs between $150 and $400, depending on coverage level and boat value.
Maintenance: Plan for at least $1,000 annually for routine maintenance, including:
- Engine servicing
- Tube cleaning
- Upholstery care
- Winterization in colder climates
Storage: Options include:
- Marina slip: $2,000 to $15,000 annually depending on location
- Dry storage: $1,500 to $4,000 annually
- Trailer storage: Less expensive but requires space and proper covering
Fuel: A 150 HP outboard running at full throttle consumes about 15 gallons per hour. For more typical cruising speeds, expect 3-8 gallons per hour depending on engine size and speed.
Accessories: Budget for safety equipment, covers, water toys, fishing gear, and other accessories.
One pontoon owner shared this practical advice: “We set aside 10% of our boat’s value each year for maintenance and unexpected repairs. Some years we don’t use it all, but it’s there when we need a new prop or have to replace upholstery.”
Financing & Insurance Tips
Financing Options: At Blackbeard Marine, we offer flexible boat financing with competitive terms:
- Buyers with credit scores over 740 typically qualify for the best rates
- Terms commonly range from 10-15 years
- Down payments of 10-20% are standard but vary based on credit profile
- Fixed and variable rate options available
Insurance Considerations:
- Liability coverage protects you if someone is injured on your boat
- Property coverage protects against damage to your boat
- Consider additional coverage for personal effects, towing, and fuel spills
- Many insurance companies offer discounts for boating safety courses
For the best boat loan rates, we recommend getting pre-approved before shopping. This gives you a clear budget and stronger negotiating position.
Safe Purchase & Registration Process
Once you’ve narrowed down your pontoon boat options, it’s time to finalize your purchase and get on the water safely. This is where excitement builds, but it’s also where careful attention to detail really pays off.
Test Drive & Inspection Checklist
Never skip the test drive – it’s your chance to feel how the boat performs in real conditions. When you’re out on the water, pay attention to how the pontoon handles at different speeds. Is acceleration smooth or jerky? Does the boat maintain stability when passengers move around? Those tight turns in a dealer’s showroom look very different out on a busy lake on a Saturday afternoon.
Listen carefully to the engine – unusual sounds could signal problems that might not appear on paper. A customer recently told me, “I almost bought a used pontoon without testing the steering, but during the test drive, I noticed it was stiff on one side. Saved myself a big headache!”
For used boats, check the pontoon tubes carefully for dents or leaks. Even small punctures can become big problems later. Run your hand along the tubes – they should feel smooth and consistent.
Comfort matters too. Sit in every seat for at least a few minutes. Those chairs that look plush in the showroom might feel very different after an hour on the water. Open all storage compartments and imagine loading them with your gear – is there enough space for your needs?
At Blackbeard Marine, we encourage families to bring everyone who’ll regularly use the boat to the test drive. As one customer wisely shared: “During our test drive, we brought the whole family and all our gear to see how the boat handled with a full load. It was eye-opening and helped us choose a model with enough space and power.”
Safety Equipment & Legal Must-Haves
Safety isn’t just a good idea – it’s the law. The U.S. Coast Guard requires specific equipment on all pontoon boats:
Life jackets are non-negotiable – one Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device for each person onboard. For children, make sure you have appropriately sized jackets. Keep them accessible, not buried under seats or in storage.
You’ll also need at least one throwable flotation device (Type IV), a B-1 marine fire extinguisher, and a sound signaling device like a horn or whistle. If you’ll be boating at night, navigation lights are required. For coastal waters, pack visual distress signals too.
Fire safety deserves special attention. According to BoatUS research, marine fire extinguishers typically have a 12-year service life. Mark the purchase date on yours and replace when needed – this is no place to cut corners.
Beyond the legal requirements, I strongly recommend carrying a well-stocked first aid kit, an anchor with sufficient line, dock lines, and fenders. A basic tool kit and flashlight can be lifesavers when small issues arise. For larger bodies of water, a VHF radio provides communication when cell signals fail.
Registration, Title & Trailer Logistics
The paperwork side of boat ownership isn’t the most exciting part, but getting it right prevents headaches down the road. All motorized boats must be registered in the state where they’re primarily used. In Oklahoma, you’ll work with the Department of Natural Resources, submitting your bill of sale or manufacturer’s statement of origin, completing their application form, and paying registration fees and sales tax.
Capacity limits are serious business. Every pontoon has a capacity plate showing maximum weight and passenger limits. Exceeding these isn’t just illegal – it’s dangerous. These limits are calculated based on pontoon size, number of tubes, and tube diameter, and they’re not suggestions.
Choosing the right trailer matters too. Bunk trailers support the pontoon tubes along their length, while scissor trailers cradle them at specific points. Either way, verify the trailer is rated for your pontoon’s weight. Even more importantly, make sure your vehicle has sufficient towing capacity – a mismatch here can damage your vehicle and create dangerous driving conditions.
Before each trip, check your trailer lights and brakes. A quick five-minute inspection can prevent roadside emergencies. For ongoing maintenance needs, our boat maintenance services help keep both your pontoon and trailer in top condition year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my pontoon boat in saltwater?
Yes, but choose a model specifically designed for saltwater with corrosion-resistant materials. After each saltwater outing, thoroughly rinse with fresh water. Expect more frequent maintenance and component replacement compared to freshwater use.
How do I winterize my pontoon boat?
In Oklahoma’s climate, proper winterization is essential. Start by stabilizing fuel and changing engine oil and filters. Fog the engine according to manufacturer recommendations and drain all water systems completely. Remove electronics and upholstery if possible, and invest in a quality cover. While outdoor storage works in milder climates, a climate-controlled facility offers the best protection in areas with freezing temperatures.
What’s the passenger capacity of a pontoon boat?
Your boat’s capacity plate is the final word, but generally, a 16-18 foot pontoon handles 6-8 passengers, a 20-22 footer accommodates 8-10 people, a 24-26 foot model fits 10-13 passengers, and 28+ foot pontoons can carry 14 or more people. Capacity assumes average-sized adults and minimal gear – adjust accordingly for your situation.
How fast will my pontoon boat go?
Speed depends on several factors working together. A typical 22-foot pontoon with a 115 HP engine will reach about 25-30 MPH. If you opt for a performance tritoon with 300+ HP, you might exceed 50 MPH under ideal conditions. Passenger weight, water conditions, and even fuel load affect performance.
Do pontoon boats hold their value?
The honest answer is that pontoons typically depreciate about 25% in the first couple of years. After that initial drop, depreciation slows considerably. Well-maintained boats from reputable manufacturers tend to hold their value better. Regular maintenance and indoor storage significantly impact resale value.
Conclusion
Finding your perfect pontoon boat doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With this pontoon boat buying guide in hand, you’re now equipped with the knowledge to make a confident, informed decision that aligns with your water trips for years to come.
We’ve covered everything from understanding the unique advantages of pontoons to selecting the right size, power, and features for your specific needs. The ideal pontoon isn’t necessarily the biggest or most expensive—it’s the one that perfectly matches your lifestyle, waterways, and how you plan to enjoy your time on the water.
At Blackbeard Marine, we don’t just sell boats—we help create lifelong memories. Our team lives and breathes the boating lifestyle, and we’re passionate about matching each customer with their perfect watercraft. As one of our recent customers told us, “I came in feeling completely lost about pontoons, but left with exactly the right boat for my family and a wealth of knowledge about maintaining it.”
Whether you’re dreaming of peaceful fishing mornings, exciting watersports afternoons, or sunset cruises with friends and family, we have pontoon options to match every vision and budget. Our dealerships in Kingston, Oklahoma and Branson, Missouri offer convenient access to an extensive selection of quality pontoons, along with the expertise to guide you through every aspect of ownership.
Ready to start your pontoon journey? We’re here to help every step of the way. Visit our Kingston dealership to experience our selection firsthand, or browse our online inventory from the comfort of your home. Our team is ready to answer any questions, arrange test drives, and help you steer financing options to make your pontoon dreams a reality.
The water is calling—and your perfect pontoon is waiting at Blackbeard Marine.
