The Best Pontoon Boat Motor Size A Guide for Boaters
Pontoon boats are a popular choice for recreational boaters, thanks to their stability, comfort, and versatility. But with so many different motor sizes available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the factors you need to consider when choosing a pontoon boat motor, including the size of your boat, the type of water you’ll be boating on, and your budget. We’ll also provide some tips on how to choose the best motor for your needs.
So whether you’re a first-time boat buyer or you’re just looking to upgrade your current motor, read on for all the information you need to know about choosing the best pontoon boat motor size!
So What Size Motor For Pontoon Boat ?
The best pontoon boat motor for your needs depends on the size of your boat, the type of water you’ll be boating on, and your budget. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a pontoon boat motor:
Size:
The size of your pontoon boat will determine the size of the motor you need. A general rule of thumb is to choose a motor that is about one-third the weight of your boat.
Type of water:
If you’ll be boating on calm lakes and rivers, you can get away with a smaller motor. However, if you plan on boating on rough water, you’ll need a more powerful motor.
Budget:
Pontoon boat motors range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The best way to find the best motor for your budget is to compare prices from different manufacturers.
Here are a few of our top picks for the best pontoon boat motors:
Mercury Marine 40 ELPT Outboard Motor:
This motor is a great option for smaller pontoon boats. It produces 40 horsepower and has a top speed of 22 mph.
Yamaha F60 Outboard Motor:
This motor is a good choice for mid-sized pontoon boats. It produces 60 horsepower and has a top speed of 30 mph.
Honda BF75 Outboard Motor:
This motor is a great option for larger pontoon boats. It produces 75 horsepower and has a top speed of 35 mph.
What Size Motor for Pontoon Boat
The Importance of Choosing the Right Motor
The size of the motor you choose for your pontoon boat is an important decision that will affect the performance, handling, and fuel efficiency of your boat.
There are a few factors you need to consider when choosing a motor for your pontoon boat, including:
The weight of your boat: The heavier your boat, the more powerful motor you will need to propel it.
The number of people you will be carrying: The more people you plan on carrying on your boat, the more powerful motor you will need to provide enough power for everyone.
The speed you want to achieve: If you plan on using your pontoon boat for watersports, you will need a more powerful motor to reach the speeds necessary for wakeboarding or skiing.
Your budget: The cost of a motor can vary significantly, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping.
Once you have considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your options. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a motor for your pontoon boat:
Outboard motors are the most common type of motor used on pontoon boats. They are easy to install and maintain, and they offer a wide range of power options.
Inboard motors are less common on pontoon boats, but they can provide more power and performance. They are also more expensive to install and maintain.
Sterndrive motors are a hybrid of outboard and inboard motors. They are mounted on the transom of the boat, but they have an inboard engine. Sterndrive motors offer the best of both worlds, providing good performance and easy maintenance.
How to Choose the Right Size Motor
The size of the motor you need for your pontoon boat will depend on the factors listed above. A good rule of thumb is to choose a motor that is about 20% more powerful than the minimum horsepower required to move your boat at a comfortable cruising speed.
For example, if you have a 20-foot pontoon boat and you plan on carrying four people, you will need a motor with a minimum horsepower of 20. A good choice for this boat would be a 25-horsepower motor.
Of course, you can always choose a motor that is more powerful than the minimum required horsepower. This will give you more power for watersports or for towing a skier or wakeboarder. However, it is important to remember that a more powerful motor will also use more fuel.
Conclusion
Choosing the right size motor for your pontoon boat is an important decision that will affect the performance, handling, and fuel efficiency of your boat. By considering the factors listed above, you can choose a motor that is the right size for your needs.
Also Read: What Size Fenders For Pontoon Boat
FAQs: What size motor for pontoon boat?
What is the best size motor for a pontoon boat?
The best size motor for a pontoon boat depends on a number of factors, including the boat’s length, weight, and intended use. A good rule of thumb is to choose a motor that is about 20% of the boat’s weight. For example, a 2,000-pound pontoon boat would require a motor that is about 400 pounds.
How much horsepower do I need for my pontoon boat?
The amount of horsepower you need for your pontoon boat depends on the boat’s length, weight, and intended use. A good rule of thumb is to choose a motor that has about 1 horsepower for every 500 pounds of boat weight. For example, a 2,000-pound pontoon boat would require a motor with about 40 horsepower.
What type of motor is best for a pontoon boat?
The best type of motor for a pontoon boat depends on the boat’s length, weight, and intended use. Outboard motors are the most common type of motor used on pontoon boats, but inboard/outboard motors and sterndrive motors can also be used.
How much does it cost to install a motor on a pontoon boat?
The cost of installing a motor on a pontoon boat varies depending on the type of motor, the size of the boat, and the location of the marina. A general rule of thumb is to expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000 for a new motor installation.
What are the benefits of having a motor on a pontoon boat?
There are a number of benefits to having a motor on a pontoon boat, including:
Increased speed and maneuverability
The ability to travel in windy conditions
The ability to tow watersports equipment
The ability to reach more remote destinations
Having a motor on a pontoon boat can also make it easier to dock and maneuver in tight spaces.
