Lifting strakes on a pontoon boat are a series of vertical strips that run along the bottom of the pontoon, just below the waterline. They help to improve the boat’s performance by reducing drag and increasing lift.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss what lifting strakes are, how they work, and why they’re important for pontoon boat owners. We’ll also provide some tips on how to choose the right lifting strakes for your boat.
So What Are Lifting Strakes On A Pontoon Boat ?
1. Pontoon boat lifting strakes are also called sponsons.
2. They help to keep the boat afloat by providing lift and stability.
3. The number and size of lifting strakes will vary depending on the size and type of pontoon boat.
4. Lifting strakes can be made from a variety of materials, including aluminum, fiberglass, and steel.
5. Properly maintained lifting strakes will help to extend the life of your pontoon boat.
What Are Lifting strakes on a Pontoon Boat?
What are lifting strakes?
Lifting strakes are strips of material that are attached to the bottom of a pontoon boat. They are designed to help the boat plane more efficiently by reducing drag and creating lift.
How do lifting strakes work?
When a pontoon boat is moving through the water, the water flows over the lifting strakes. This creates a pressure difference between the water on the front and back of the strakes. The water on the front of the strakes is pushed down, while the water on the back of the strakes is pushed up. This creates a lifting force that helps the boat plane out of the water.
What are the benefits of lifting strakes?
Lifting strakes can provide a number of benefits for pontoon boats, including:
Increased speed: Lifting strakes can help a pontoon boat plane out of the water more quickly, which can result in increased speed.
Improved handling: Lifting strakes can help a pontoon boat handle better in rough water.
Reduced drag: Lifting strakes can reduce drag, which can improve fuel efficiency.
Are there any disadvantages to lifting strakes?
There are a few potential disadvantages to lifting strakes, including:
Increased cost: Lifting strakes can add to the cost of a pontoon boat.
Increased noise: Lifting strakes can create more noise than a pontoon boat without lifting strakes.
Increased wear and tear: Lifting strakes can increase wear and tear on a pontoon boat’s hull.
When should you use lifting strakes?
Lifting strakes are a good option for pontoon boats that are used for speed or in rough water. They can also be a good option for pontoon boats that are used for fishing, as they can help to improve handling.
How to choose lifting strakes
When choosing lifting strakes for your pontoon boat, there are a few factors to consider, including:
The size of your pontoon boat
The type of water you will be boating in
Your budget
Once you have considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your choices. There are a variety of lifting strakes available on the market, so you should be able to find a set that meets your needs.
Installing lifting strakes
Lifting strakes can be installed by a qualified boat mechanic. The installation process will vary depending on the type of lifting strakes you have chosen.
Conclusion
Lifting strakes can be a great way to improve the performance of your pontoon boat. They can help to increase speed, improve handling, and reduce drag. If you are considering adding lifting strakes to your pontoon boat, be sure to do your research and choose a set that is right for you.
Also Read: What Is The Best Anchor For A Pontoon Boat
FAQs: Lifting strakes on a pontoon boat
What are lifting strakes?
Lifting strakes are strips of material that are attached to the underside of a pontoon boat. They help to lift the boat out of the water, reducing drag and improving performance.
How do lifting strakes work?
Lifting strakes work by creating a vortex under the boat. This vortex helps to lift the boat out of the water, reducing drag and improving performance.
What are the benefits of lifting strakes?
Lifting strakes offer a number of benefits, including:
Improved performance: Lifting strakes can help to improve a boat’s performance by reducing drag and increasing speed.
Reduced fuel consumption: Lifting strakes can help to reduce a boat’s fuel consumption by reducing drag.
Improved handling: Lifting strakes can help to improve a boat’s handling by making it more stable and easier to turn.
What are the disadvantages of lifting strakes?
Lifting strakes can have a few disadvantages, including:
Increased noise: Lifting strakes can create more noise than boats without lifting strakes.
Increased vibration: Lifting strakes can create more vibration than boats without lifting strakes.
Increased drag: Lifting strakes can increase a boat’s drag in certain conditions, such as when the boat is going slow or when the water is rough.
When should I use lifting strakes?
Lifting strakes are a good choice for boats that are used for speed or performance. They can also be helpful for boats that are used in rough water or for boats that are used to tow skiers or wakeboarders.
