18ft small pontoon boats are the ideal size for first-time buyers and enthusiasts of pontoon boats. These small pontoon boats offer the same quality as the larger pontoon boats (24′ pontoon boats), but they come without the troubles associated with larger boats. 18ft pontoon boats are cheaper, more portable, and versatile for all sorts of water making them suitable for beginners.
18′ small pontoon boats come in different designs and features that collectively offer an angler or family the best experience. Also, a few run on solar energy, which environmentalists highly acknowledge to offer a green and carbon-free environment suitable for the ecosystem.
18′ Pontoon Boat Benefits
The 18′ pontoon boat does not just stand out because of its size. The boat has proven to be ideal to sail on any water due to its low weight. More so, due to their size, these pontoon boats are the best option for sailing on restricted water ways.
Use in Restricted Waterways
Local authorities impose boating restrictions to protect waterways from physical damage from large boats. Most restrictions revolve around larger boats and the fact that they more likely to significantly impact water depth (amount of water displaced and wakes). For these conditions, 18′ pontoon boats are the most ideal because of their small size and less powerful outboard engines.
Ideal for Shallow Waters
Most ponds have extremely shallow waters, which makes it hard for heavy or large boats to sail. 20′ pontoon boats and larger will not be suitable for these waters. Therefore, it is crucial to go for 18′ small pontoon boats with lesser weight.
Use in Horsepower Restricted Waterways
Most lakes have horsepower restrictions due to their volume or even environmental constraints. However, the use of a low horsepower engine does not affect the performance of small pontoon boats. Due to being lightweight, 18′ small pontoon boats move well even with lower horsepower engines.
Cost Effective
Full-size pontoon boats are a significant purchase when considering fuel, repairs, storage, and regular maintenance. If one doesn’t want to buy a full-size pontoon, 18′ pontoon boats have lower overall costs making them ideal for those on a tight budget or first time buyers.
Maneuverability
18′ pontoon boats are the best option for anyone intimidated by the stress associated with putting a pontoon boat on the water. These boats are much easier to handle, trailer and dock.
Easy Storage
The small size of 18′ pontoon boats makes them easy to store in a garage, unlike bigger pontoon boats. Their shorter length allows them to fit perfectly into a standard size (12′ wide and 22′ deep) single-car garage bay. Additionally, the short length allows for easy maneuverability when backing the pontoon boat trailer from the street to the garage.
Environmentally Friendly
Most 18′ pontoon boats are so small that they don’t need a diesel engine. In fact, because of their size and weight, it is not advisable to use an outboard engine greater than 75 HP. An outboard engine with greater than 75 HP will cause damage to the pontoon boat. Due to their smaller gasoline engines, 18′ pontoon boats a little more eco-friendly. Additionally, 18′ pontoon boats can operator using an electric motor, which makes them even more environmentally friendly.
Stability
18′ pontoons have the same draft as an aluminum canoe or fishing boat. However, the pontoon boat has additional benefits. Instead of a constant rocking motion, the flat deck keeps the entire boat and any onboard equipment stable.
Best 18′ Pontoon Boats
Below is a list of the best 18′ small pontoon boats on the market. As previously mentioned, they are suitable for shallow waters, ponds, and lakes. While small, these pontoon boats can carry a decent number of passengers, and their standard quality is suitable for every one to enjoy their trip on the water.
Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 XL
The Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 DLX is an ideal boat for fishing and other water activities. It has two foldable fishing chairs. The Sun Tracker pontoon boat also has an L-shaped lounge. This gives a sailor and boarders space if there is the need to do something else, like playing games. Also, the lounge comes in quite handy as one can store different things underneath. This 18′ pontoon boat is simple yet classic; it’s worth checking out.
Lowe Ultra 162 Fish N Cruise
The Lowe Ultra 162 Fish N Cruise is also a contender in this category and performs admirably. Lowe Boats have come a long way in the boat business. Just like Sun Tracker, Lowe has over 50 years of experience. One of the special Lowe small boats falls under the Ultra series. The boat offers several value packages that make it stand out even among the bigger pontoon boats.
The Ultra 162 Fish N Cruise is cheap regardless of its various features like live well, fishing pole holders, comfortable seating, and layout. This model stands out for a small boat even compared to larger boats.
Princecraft BrioE 17
All thanks to the Torqeedo Cruise 3.0, the 3,000 watt electric outboard motor, the Princecraft BrioE 17 runs at a decent speed. Also the motor doesn’t harm the ecosystem. This makes it the ideal boat for anyone that frequents a lake or pond that doesn’t allow gasoline engine. Or an environmentalist that wants to have the lowest carbon footprint. The power system is what makes the boat unique; regardless, it has the same standard features as other pontoon boats.
Bennington S18 L-Bench
The Bennington S18 L-Bench pontoon is one of the best cruiser boats on the market. The design is very nice, and it guarantees to give couples an experience never to forget. The boat has an L-bench with a sun pad and a large amount of storage underneath. This boat is unique because buyers can select the same model in 13 different configurations, which the manufacturer can customize to one’s taste and preferences. It isn’t that expensive, and it’s worth every penny.
Sunchaser Vista 16 LR
The Sunchaser Vista 16 LR is a decent pontoon boat. It comes with a 40 horsepower outboard engine, and options are available to select a smaller engine to reduce cost. The boat has Sea Weave carpeting and a Bimini top. Six passengers can fully enjoy the boat’s features.
The basic model arrangement of the boat is not too extravagant, but it provides the comfort necessary. Two sofas face each other in the bow, while a third port side sofa sits in the stern, across from an-arm resting chair. It also comes with a 6-year warranty covering several parts of the boat.
Harris Cruiser 190
The Harris pontoon boat company has bagged several awards over the past decades, and one of the pontoon boats that made it possible is the Harris Cruiser 190. Even though the boat doesn’t look like much compared to the modern day’s quality, it remains sturdy on the water. Despite the Cruiser’s small size, this pontoon boat can comfortably accommodate up to 8 people, making it one of the most spacious vessels. It also has several decent features, and the pontoon boat is relatively cheap.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 18′ small pontoon boats are an excellent choice for those seeking a compact, versatile, and budget-friendly option for enjoying time on the water. Their manageable size makes them perfect for smaller lakes, easy towing, and hassle-free storage, while still offering the comfort and features pontoon enthusiasts love. Whether you’re fishing, cruising, or hosting a small gathering, these boats provide a practical solution without compromising on fun and functionality. With the right 18′ pontoon boat, you can create lasting memories on the water with family and friends.
