The Best Pontoon Boat Size for You
The perfect pontoon boat size for you depends on a number of factors, including the number of people you’ll be boating with, the type of activities you plan to do on the water, and your budget.
In this article, we’ll discuss the different factors to consider when choosing a pontoon boat size, and we’ll recommend some specific models that may be a good fit for your needs.
So What Size Pontoon Boat Do I Need?
The size of pontoon boat you need depends on the number of people you plan to cruise with, the activities you want to do on the water, and your budget. A small pontoon boat can accommodate up to six people, while a large pontoon boat can hold up to 12 people. If you plan to do watersports, you will need a larger boat with more power. Pontoon boats range in price from a few thousand dollars to over $100,000.
What Size Pontoon Boat Do I Need?
Determining the Right Size Pontoon Boat
When it comes to choosing the right size pontoon boat, there are a few factors you need to consider. These include:
The number of people who will be using the boat: If you plan on using the boat for family outings or entertaining guests, you’ll need a larger boat than if you’re only planning on using it for solo fishing trips.
The type of activities you’ll be doing on the boat: If you plan on spending most of your time on the water swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing, you can get away with a smaller boat. However, if you plan on doing watersports like wakeboarding or tubing, you’ll need a larger boat with more power.
Your budget: The size of the boat you can afford will obviously be a factor in your decision. Keep in mind that larger boats are more expensive to purchase, operate, and maintain.
Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your choices. Here are a few general guidelines to help you determine the right size pontoon boat for your needs:
For a couple or small family, a 16- to 22-foot pontoon boat is a good option:
These boats are typically affordable and easy to handle, making them ideal for day trips and weekend getaways.
For a larger family or group of friends, a 24- to 30-foot pontoon boat is a good choice:
These boats offer more space for passengers and gear, and they’re also more stable in rough water.
For serious boaters who plan on doing watersports, a 32-foot or larger pontoon boat is a good option:
These boats have plenty of power and stability for wakeboarding, tubing, and other activities.
Of course, these are just general guidelines. The best way to determine the right size pontoon boat for your needs is to talk to a qualified boat dealer. They can help you assess your needs and make the best decision for your budget.
How to Choose the Right Pontoon Boat for Your Needs
In addition to considering the size of the boat, there are a few other factors you need to keep in mind when choosing a pontoon boat. These include:
The type of pontoon boat: There are two main types of pontoon boats: deck boats and fishing boats. Deck boats are designed for entertaining and recreation, while fishing boats are designed for fishing.
The materials used in the construction of the boat: Pontoon boats are typically made from aluminum, fiberglass, or a combination of the two. Aluminum boats are lightweight and affordable, while fiberglass boats are more durable and stylish.
The features and amenities you want: Pontoon boats come with a variety of features and amenities, such as stereo systems, fishing platforms, and swim platforms. Consider what features are important to you and make sure to choose a boat that has them.
By considering all of these factors, you can choose the right pontoon boat for your needs and enjoy years of fun on the water.
Pontoon Boat Size Chart
The following table provides a general overview of the different sizes of pontoon boats available.
| Size | Length | Beam | Capacity |
|—|—|—|—|
| 16-foot | 16′ | 8′ | 6-8 people |
| 18-foot | 18′ | 8′ | 8-10 people |
| 20-foot | 20′ | 8′ | 10-12 people |
| 22-foot | 22′ | 8′ | 12-14 people |
| 24-foot | 24′ | 8′ | 14-16 people |
| 26-foot | 26′ | 8′ | 16-18 people |
| 28-foot | 28′ | 8′ | 18-20 people |
| 30-foot | 30′ | 8′ | 20-22 people |
| 32-foot | 32′ | 8′ | 22-24 people |
Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines. The actual size of the boat you need will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Also Read: What Size Anchor Do I Need For A 24 Foot Pontoon Boat
FAQs: What size pontoon boat do I need?
What is the difference between a pontoon boat and a pontoon?
A pontoon boat is a type of boat that floats on pontoons, which are large, buoyant tubes. Pontoons are typically made of aluminum or fiberglass, and they provide a stable platform for the boat to sit on. Pontoon boats are typically used for recreation, such as fishing, swimming, and water skiing.
What size pontoon boat do I need for fishing?
The size of the pontoon boat you need for fishing will depend on the number of people who will be fishing on the boat, the type of fishing you will be doing, and the size of the body of water you will be fishing on. For example, if you will be fishing with a group of friends, you will need a larger boat than if you will be fishing alone. If you will be fishing in a large lake or river, you will need a larger boat than if you will be fishing in a small pond.
What size pontoon boat do I need for swimming?
The size of the pontoon boat you need for swimming will depend on the number of people who will be swimming on the boat, the size of the boat, and the type of swimming you will be doing. For example, if you will be swimming with a group of friends, you will need a larger boat than if you will be swimming alone. If you will be swimming in a large lake or river, you will need a larger boat than if you will be swimming in a small pond.
What size pontoon boat do I need for water skiing?
The size of the pontoon boat you need for water skiing will depend on the number of people who will be water skiing on the boat, the size of the boat, and the type of water skiing you will be doing. For example, if you will be water skiing with a group of friends, you will need a larger boat than if you will be water skiing alone. If you will be water skiing in a large lake or river, you will need a larger boat than if you will be water skiing in a small pond.
What size pontoon boat do I need for wakeboarding?
The size of the pontoon boat you need for wakeboarding will depend on the number of people who will be wakeboarding on the boat, the size of the boat, and the type of wakeboarding you will be doing. For example, if you will be wakeboarding with a group of friends, you will need a larger boat than if you will be wakeboarding alone. If you will be wakeboarding in a large lake or river, you will need a larger boat than if you will be wakeboarding in a small pond.
