Dan - Pontoon Boats

18 Best One Man Pontoon Boats for 2022

May 20, 2022 by Dan

Investing in a large-sized pontoon boat can be an unnecessary expense for buyers who use the boat only for solo fishing outings. You can instead consider one of our best one man pontoon boats that are affordable and occupy less space (especially the inflatable ones). One man pontoon boats come packed with features and are created with the fisherman in mind. These pontoon boats are also great for traversing shallow water where regular pontoon boats won’t go. Here are the ten best one-man pontoon boats for fishing!

If you are in a rush here is a table of our top recommended one man pontoon boats:

Title	Why We Like
Classic Accessories Colorado XT Inflatable Pontoon Boat	Best Overall	Check Price on Amazon
Sea Eagle 285 Frameless Pontoon Boat	Most Compact	Check Price on Amazon
Classic Accessories Roanoke Inflatable Pontoon Boat	Most Economical	Check Price on Amazon
AQUOS Heavy Duty Inflatable Pontoon Boat	Most Sturdy	Check Price on Amazon

Best One Man Fishing Pontoon Boats

Here are the ten best one-man pontoon boats for fishing!

1. Classic Accessories Colorado XT Inflatable Pontoon Boat

best one man pontoon boats classic accessories colorado xt

The Colorado XT inflatable pontoon boat is a great choice for buyers who are looking for the best one man pontoon boats. It is a nine feet pontoon boat made from heavy-duty materials including a PVC bottom and nylon tops. Its powder-coated steel tube frame is durable, and there are two 7-feet aluminum oars provided as well as the option to mount a trolling motor. The boat can carry a weight of up to 400lbs. and has enough room to stash all your gear. It has twenty pockets, two drink holders, a rear storage platform, six fishing rod mounting positions and two removable side pockets that combine to form a gear bag. The Colorado XT pontoon boat comes with a 2-year warranty.

2. Classic Accessories Colorado Inflatable Pontoon Boat

best one man pontoon boats classic accessories colorado

If you don’t carry much gear when going on a trip, then the Colorado boat from Classic Accessories will be a more apt choice for you among the ten best one man pontoon boats. It is a nine feet boat made from PVC bottom and nylon top with a sturdy steel tube frame. The boat has ten mesh pockets, twelve zippered pockets, a rear storage rack and a couple of insulated drink holders. There are two aluminum oars provided, but you can also mount a trolling motor. The Colorado inflatable pontoon boat comes with a 1-year warranty.

3. Sea Eagle 285 Frameless Pontoon Boat

best one man pontoon boats sea eagle 285

The Sea Eagle 285 Frameless Pontoon Boat is a great choice for individuals who want the best one man pontoon boat that can be carried around. It is an inflatable boat that can be set up in less than five minutes. It weighs under forty-two pounds and is ultra-portable. The boat is made from 1000 Denier material and can carry a weight of up to 450lbs. It comes with a pair of oars but also has a mount for electric motors or engines. There are two rod holders provided along with four carry handles. Sea Eagle 285 comes with a 3-year warranty against defects.

4. Classic Accessories Roanoke Inflatable Pontoon Boat

best one man pontoon boats classic accessories roanoke

Buyers who are seeking a compact option on the list of ten best one-man pontoon boats can consider the Roanoke from Classic Accessories. It is a slightly smaller boat with a length of eight feet and a weight capacity of 350lbs. Its heavy-duty construction with a PVC bottom, steel tube frame, and nylon top makes it rugged and durable. There are two 6-foot aluminum oars provided, and its low weight makes it easy to steer. It has two zippered pockets and a rear storage platform for gear. Roanoke inflatable pontoon boat comes with a 1-year warranty.

5. Aquos Heavy Duty Inflatable Pontoon Boat

best one man pontoon boats aquos heavy duty 7.5

Individuals who prefer a one man pontoon boat with a sturdy platform will like the AQUOS Heavy Duty Inflatable Pontoon Boat. The boat is 7.5 feet long and is constructed from heavy-duty PVC to improve its ruggedness and durability. It comes with a sturdy aluminum floorboard that provides a nice platform to fish from. The boat is portable allowing for easy transportation and takes fifteen minutes to assemble. Its motor mount can support a trolling motor and if you purchase the upgraded AQUOS package it comes with its own trolling motor. Two oars are included in the standard package. The AQUOS Inflatable Pontoon Boat comes with a 3-year replacement warranty and can be customized with accessories.

6. Pelican – Boat BASS Raider 10E

best one man pontoon boats Pelican Boat Bass Raider 10e

The Pelican – Boat BASS Raider 10E is a versatile offering for individuals who are looking for a good one man pontoon boat but don’t want an inflatable model. It can be used as a 2 man boat, trolling boat and a rowing boat. It consists of two seats that mount on top of the bottom boat, and has two semi-formed pontoons along the length to help with flotation and controllability. The front of the Pelican Boat BASS Raider boat has a trolling motor mount while additional mounts are provided on the sides for rowing kit or rails. It is constructed from rotationally molded polyethylene for high durability. There are multiple storage compartments provided along with two cup holders.

7. Outcast Fish Cat Panther

best one man pontoon boats outcast fish cat panther

The Outcast Fish Cat Panther is a great choice when it comes to the best one-man pontoon boats. It is a nine feet long boat designed for flat waters and can carry a weight of up to 400lbs. It is made from heavy-duty PVC with an aluminum frame and welded seam construction. A pair of 7-foot oars is included in the package while a motor mount is provided for electric or gas motor. There is adequate space for carrying your fishing gear or other items. The Fish Cat Panther comes with a 5-year warranty.

8. Outcast PAC 1000FS

best one man pontoon boat outcast fish cat panther

The Outcast PAC 1000FS will suit the requirements of the buyers who need a large one-man pontoon boat. It is ten feet long boat that can be used on large water bodies with rapids. The boat is designed to be stable especially when fishing and can carry a weight of up to 500lbs. It is made from 1100 PVC fabric and has welded seam construction. The four-piece aluminum frame adds to its sturdiness. It comes with two 7-foot oars while a motor mount is also provided. Outcast PAC 1000FS is covered by an excellent 10-year warranty.

9. Outcast Fish Cat 13 Stand Up

best one man pontoon boats outcast fish cat 13

The Outcast Fish Cat 13 is a top choice for fishers looking for a one-man pontoon boats. Although it is advertised as a “two man” boat it has the option to convert into a one man boat. It has been designed to facilitate fishing while standing up. A casting deck and a lean bar can be deployed for fishing and stowed afterward. The boat is made from durable and rugged PVC fabric and has a weight capacity of 450lbs. Its 12-piece steel frame provides structural rigidity. It comes with a pair of 7-foot oars as well as a motor mount. The Fish Cat 13 comes with a 5-year warranty.

10. Classic Accessories Togiak Inflatable Fishing Float Tube

best one man pontoon boat classic accessories togiak

The Classic Accessories Togiak Fishing Float Tube is an inexpensive option for individuals requiring a one-man pontoon boat. It is quite compact with 67” length and 39” width but can still carry 300 lbs. Its pontoons have heavy-duty PVC bottoms and nylon tops for enhanced ruggedness and durability. There are two fishing rod holders provided along with backpack straps. It comes with a high back stadium seat with adjustable backrest seat many storage pockets to help you keep your gear together while you fish. The Togiak Fishing Float Tube is covered by a 1-year warranty.

11. Classic Accessories Cumberland Float Tube

best one man pontoon boat Classic Accessories Cumberland Float Tube

The Classic Accessories Cumberland Float Tube is a float tube and not a specific pontoon boat. However, they offer many like features. They are also extremely lightweight and great in terms of affordability. They weigh only 14 lbs. The size of the float tube when assembled is 56″L x 44″W x 19″H. Coming with a hydrodynamic hull shape, the tracking and steering can be improved. The hull is made out of U shaped pontoon with rugged and abrasion resistant PVC bottom which prevents damage. With extra high seat, you get improved visibility and a dry fishing experience. The thickly padded seat with a width of 18 inches has adjustable backrest offering you good support and comfortability for those long fishing hours.

There are also ample options in terms of storage. They have a mesh pocket with draw cord closure, two zippered interior pockets, and two cargo pockets with double zippers. There are also two drink holders and two rod holders. The float tube also comes with a mesh stripping apron with fish ruler so that you can keep track of your catches. They also have adjustable backpacking straps so that you need not worry much about transportation.

12. Outcast Fish Cat Scout Pontoon Boat

best one man pontoon boat Outcast Fish Cat Scout Pontoon Boat

The one person pontoon boat also features two airecell chambers which are made of vinyl. The outer fabric and chambers are built to act with durability even in rough territories. The pontoon boat is extremely stable in moving water. It features a low profile for still water. It is found to be easily maneuverable and this can be attributed the combination of pontoon boat and float tube styles in the design. The design is such that you can fish with great comfort from the kayak style seat. You can also fish while standing in shallow water. You can store your gears behind the seat and can have easy access when needed. With the kick-fins, you can move silently. There are also the 2 piece 5 foot oars for use in heavier water. They also feature the Summit II valve system. The Fish Cat Scout comes with an Integrated Gear System so as to add pockets and rod holders. The maximum loading capacity of the one man pontoon boat is 400lbs. It has a five year limited warranty.

13. Bucks Bags High Adventure 9-Foot Pontoon Package

best one man pontoon boat Bucks Bags High Adventure 9 Foot Pontoon Boat

The Bucks Bags High Adventure 9 foot pontoon boat is one of the best one man pontoon boats. You can take this pontoon boat to anywhere, lakes, rivers and pond. The High Adventure inflatable pontoon boat comes with a powder coated steel frame. This frame is sturdy and it connects to two heavy duty pontoons. The rotary welded pontoons are made from 18 ounce PVC coated polyester. They have internal vinyl bladders. There is also a framed battery well. The one man pontoon boat measures 55 x 96 inches (W x L). This lightweight pontoon boat weighs about 60 lbs and is easy to carry. It can have maximum load capacity of 375 lbs. The one man pontoon boat has a dual position anchor lock system featuring the line lock system so that you can release and retrieve the anchor in no time. The cargo deck is roomy. With the side storage pockets, there is enough space to keep all your accessories. The one man pontoon boat comes with adjustable chair and foot rests. The 6 foot oars are collapsible. Also, there is a motor mount. It also features an effective stripping apron. The personal pontoon boat also comes with a 2 year warranty.

14. YILI Inflatable Fishing Floatation Pontoon Boat Tube

best one man pontoon boat YILI Inflatable Fishing Floatation Tube

You can have a great fishing or floating experience with the YILI Pontoon boat tube. This is also more of a floatation tube with features similar to inflatable pontoon boat. The maximum weight capacity is 286lbs. The model is designed with great buoyancy so as to help you fish safely in the lake. The Hydrodynamic hull guarantees for superior tracking and easy steering. The thick inflatable seat comes with a high adjustable inflatable backrest. This makes it a comfortable and durable structure offering good support for spending long hours fishing on the lake. The material used in the construction is abrasion resistant and durable 600D oxford fabric which is also waterproof. The Fish ruler can be used to measure the size of your catches. The Fish Ruler sleeve comes includes a buckle strap which when connected to the seat ensures that you do not fall off the seat. They offer enough storage space. There is the left side storage pocket and also the detachable waterproof black storage bag on the right for holding mobile, water bottle, bait, etc. At the back of the seat, there is a net in which you can store fishes you catch. Velcro is present on the side and front of the tube which can be used to place the oars and the fishing rods. The included oar can be used for deeper and speedy rowing which can also be disassembled for compact storage. The step in fins can be used for navigating and is a must have for backcountry anglers. With the two adjustable shoulder straps, you can carry the floating tube to the fishing destination with ease. It can be inflated and deflated with ease. All the necessary equipment is included.

15. Classic Accessories Cumberland Float Tube

This is a float tube and not a specific pontoon boat. However, they offer many like features. They are also extremely lightweight and great in terms of affordability. They weigh only 14 lbs. The size of the float tube when assembled is 56″L x 44″W x 19″H. Coming with a hydrodynamic hull shape, the tracking and steering can be improved. The hull is made out of U shaped pontoon with rugged and abrasion resistant PVC bottom which prevents damage. With extra high seat, you get improved visibility and a dry fishing experience. The thickly padded seat with a width of 18 inches has adjustable backrest offering you good support and comfortability for those long fishing hours. There are also ample options in terms of storage. They have a mesh pocket with draw cord closure, two zippered interior pockets, and two cargo pockets with double zippers. There are also two drink holders and two rod holders. The float tube also comes with a mesh stripping apron with fish ruler so that you can keep track of your catches. They also have adjustable backpacking straps so that you need not worry much about transportation.

Classic Accessories Cumberland Float Tube

16. Outcast Fish Cat Scout Pontoon Boat

The Fish Cat Scout Pontoon Boat which is a one man, do everything pontoon boat, comes with a frameless design which offers ultimate portability. The super portable frameless one man pontoon boat is also simple and easy to set up without hassles. It weighs only around 35 lbs. The 7 foot one person pontoon boat is so compact that you can even take it for airline travel if you are planning to explore some distant fishing location. The outer base fabric denier is 1000 PVC with welded seam construction offering great durability. The one person pontoon boat also features two airecell chambers which are made of vinyl. The outer fabric and chambers are built to act with durability even in rough territories. The pontoon boat is extremely stable in moving water. It features a low profile for still water. It is found to be easily maneuverable and this can be attributed the combination of pontoon boat and float tube styles in the design. The design is such that you can fish with great comfort from the kayak style seat. You can also fish while standing in shallow water. You can store your gears behind the seat and can have easy access when needed. With the kick-fins, you can move silently. There are also the 2 piece 5 foot oars for use in heavier water. They also feature the Summit II valve system. The Fish Cat Scout comes with an Integrated Gear System so as to add pockets and rod holders. The maximum loading capacity of the one man pontoon boat is 400lbs. It has a five year limited warranty.

Outcast Fish Cat Scout Pontoon Boat

17. Bucks Bags High Adventure 9-Foot Pontoon Package

Bucks Bags High Adventure 9 Foot Pontoon Package

18. YILI Inflatable Fishing Floatation Pontoon Boat Tube

You can have a great fishing or floating experience with the pontoon boat tube. This is also more of a floatation tube with features similar to inflatable pontoon boat. The maximum weight capacity is 286lbs. The model is designed with great buoyancy so as to help you fish safely in the lake. The Hydrodynamic hull guarantees for superior tracking and easy steering. The thick inflatable seat comes with a high adjustable inflatable backrest. This makes it a comfortable and durable structure offering good support for spending long hours fishing on the lake. The material used in the construction is abrasion resistant and durable 600D oxford fabric which is also waterproof. The Fish ruler can be used to measure the size of your catches. The Fish Ruler sleeve comes includes a buckle strap which when connected to the seat ensures that you do not fall off the seat. They offer enough storage space. There is the left side storage pocket and also the detachable waterproof black storage bag on the right for holding mobile, water bottle, bait, etc. At the back of the seat, there is a net in which you can store fishes you catch. Velcro is present on the side and front of the tube which can be used to place the oars and the fishing rods. The included oar can be used for deeper and speedy rowing which can also be disassembled for compact storage. The step in fins can be used for navigating and is a must have for backcountry anglers. With the two adjustable shoulder straps, you can carry the floating tube to the fishing destination with ease. It can be inflated and deflated with ease. All the necessary equipment is included.

YILI Inflatable Fishing Floatation Pontoon Boat Tube

What is a One-Man Pontoon Boat?

A one-man pontoon boat is a small-sized boat designed for use by a single person. Most of them are inflatable boats that can be assembled and disassembled easily. They have a solid frame with two inflatable tubes. An aluminum floor rests on the tubes and may have a single seat. A few one-man pontoon boats may be made of durable materials like aluminum or polyethylene. There is adequate space provided for storing gear in addition to a motor mount. Riders can use oars, a small electric motor, or a gasoline motor for steering one-man pontoons.

The boats can be inflated and deflated as required using an air pump. They are extremely portable and can be transported in SUV and pickup trucks. One-man pontoon boats are more affordable, making them suitable for buyers wanting budget options. They are suitable for fishing as well as leisure.

Why Buy a One-Man Pontoon Boat?

Buying a one-man pontoon boat makes sense for many boat lovers. Here are a few reasons for considering these boats over full-sized pontoons.

Shallow Water Bodies

A one-man pontoon boat is ideal for shallow water bodies. They are way smaller in size as compared to regular-sized pontoon boats. It allows for excellent maneuverability in shallow and narrow water bodies. You can navigate to spots that might not be reachable on a large boat. These may include closed-off locations that are only accessible through rivulets. Fishers can reach the best angling spots in the water and get a sizeable catch faster. One-man pontoon boats can be used in most types of waters irrespective of the bed depth or the narrowness of the water body. If the water bodies in your area have shallow beds, then a one-man pontoon boat will be ideal for you.

Beginners

One-man pontoon boats make perfect sense for beginners. The small size of these boats makes it easier to control and maneuver them. Larger boats are harder to steer and have powerful engines. Inexperienced people may feel overwhelmed at the helm of a large pontoon boat. If you are new to boats and want to learn how to steer them, then a one-man pontoon boat makes perfect sense for you.

A pontoon boat feels different from other types of boats. People who are trying pontooning for the first time may not be sure if they would like the experience. They may want to try them out before buying one. A one-man pontoon boat makes good sense for them. It will cost them significantly less as compared to larger boats. If people like the feel of a pontoon boat, they can invest in a bigger pontoon. However, if they feel that pontooning is not their cup of tea, then they can consider other types of boats.

Budget Option

Some people may wish to own a pontoon boat, but it may not be economically feasible for them to purchase and maintain it. Typically, a small-sized pontoon boat costs upwards of ten thousand bucks. It can be difficult for people, especially those who have retired, to spend such an amount on a boat.

One-man pontoon boats allow them to fulfill their dream of owning a pontoon boat. They can be purchased for as little as a couple of hundred bucks. While they may not have the bells and whistles found on larger pontoons, one-man pontoon boats provide an enjoyable experience nonetheless. Maintaining a one-man pontoon boat is easier and more cost-effective as compared to larger ones. You can deflate and disassemble them for storing and protecting them from natural elements like rain, sunlight, and dust. They will occupy minimum space in a garage.

Solo Boaters or Fishers

Individuals who prefer to boat or fish in silence, enjoying their own company, will find a one-man pontoon boat to be ideal for them. As they will be the sole person on the boat, they will not find it lacking in any aspect. Most one-man pontoon boats allow you to install accessories just like larger pontoon boats. These can include angling equipment, cup holders, GPS, fish finders, and trolling motors, among others. Buying a large pontoon for a single person may not make sense economically. Not only will the person incur extra expenditure, but their pontoon also may not be fully utilized.

Portable Option

The majority of one-man pontoon boats are inflatable. They can be disassembled, deflated, and rolled, making it easy to carry them. You can store the boat in the back of your SUV or pickup truck and travel to the water body in your area. One-man pontoon boats are easy to assemble and don’t require many tools for rebuilding them. Most required hardware and tools are included with the boats. All you need is an air pump for inflating the boat. It can be powered via the 12V DC outlet in the pickup truck or SUV. Most people already have an air pump for inflating the tires of their cars. Even if you don’t have one, you can buy it for about thirty bucks. The boats can be assembled in around ten minutes. Their portable nature makes them ideal for people who live far away from water bodies. Individuals who are on a road trip can take a one-man pontoon boat for fishing or leisure along with them.

Environmentally Friendly

Some local governing agencies may not allow larger pontoon boats on local water bodies. It could be because of ecological or environmental reasons. A one-man pontoon boat can be propelled and steered using small electric motors as well as mechanically using oars. It makes them environment friendly and prevents the pollution caused by gasoline engines. If you want to buy an environment-friendly pontoon or your local body has imposed restrictions on gasoline engines, then a one-man pontoon boat may be a suitable option for you.

Pontoon Boat Accessories Fun – Best Upper Decks, Slides, Platforms, and Diving Boards for 2022

May 18, 2022 by Dan

There are plenty of activities that you can indulge in while taking a trip on your pontoon boat. With water all around, swimming and diving are two of the most common. If you are like us, setting anchor in a cove and swimming around your pontoon boat is some of the most fun you can have on your boat! Using pontoon boat accessories designed specifically for these, the fun factor can be increased greatly while providing safety. These include decks, swim platforms, diving boards and even water slides. An additional upper deck allows you to increase the space on your boat as well as providing a separate area for kids and adults alike to relax or sunbathe. Quite a few companies are engaged in the manufacturing of decks, platforms and slides. Here are the best pontoon upper decks, diving boards, and slides for your enjoyment.

If you are in a rush here is a table of our top recommended fun pontoon boat accessories:

Title	Why We Like
Lillipad Diving Board	Best Overall, Most Fun	Check Price on Amazon
EEz-In Outboard Transom Platform	Most Economical	Check Price on Amazon
Pactrade Swim Platform	Highest Quality	Check Price on Amazon
RAVE Sports Pontoon Slide	Most Portable, Most Fun	Check Price on Amazon

Upper Decks

Upper decks are one of the popular pontoon boat accessories for fun. They are a versatile addition to boats that have multiple benefits. The upper deck increases the amount of area available on your pontoon by creating another floor, generally accessible by a ladder. You can invite more people to your weekend excursion and have fun. There is no need to worry about space if your friends or family drop by.

It functions as a sun deck, and you can install a pair of loungers for relaxing on your trip. Some upper decks provide you the option of installing a slide as well as side rails. If your pontoon does not come with a sunshade, then installing an upper deck may be a great option for you. It will provide protection from the sun during hot summer days and keep you cool. In case it suddenly starts raining while you are spending time on the lake, the upper deck will keep you dry as well.

You can opt for prefabricated upper decks or get a custom one. Popular upper deck sizes include 8’x8’ and 8’x16’, depending on the pontoon boat. Upper deck installation is possible on pontoons that are of a certain size. It may not be feasible to install upper decks on small-sized boats. Here are a couple of great pontoon upper decks for 2020.

1. J’s Upper Deck

pontoon boat accessories Upper Pontoon Deck

J’s Upper Deck is a great choice for pontoon boat owners looking to increase the area on their boat as well as have a large diving platform. It is available in multiple pre-fabricated sizes as well as gives the option of customization as per the requirement of the boat owner. The deck floor and the framework are made from aluminum while the railings and ladder are of stainless steel. A decorative trim, corner and side rails and ladder are included in the kit. J’s 8’X8’ deck costs $2,995 while 8’6”X16’ deck is priced at $5,595. Jay’s just announced recently that have added a sturdy platform slide ladder to their lineup due to high demand! If you are interested in learning more about J’s Upper Deck please feel free to Contact Us. We have a partnership with J and can work with you on finding the exact deck you are looking for!

2. U-Fab Boats Sun Deck Kit

pontoon boat accessories Pontoon Sun Deck Kit

Another option for individuals looking for a deck is Sun Deck Kit by U-Fab Boats. The deck has a frame that is completely made of aluminum providing it strength while keeping it lightweight and making it corrosion resistant. The frame is supported by four heavy duty posts also made of aluminum. For access, a ladder with handrails is included while a 7.5” trim rail helps to keep it safe. The Sun Deck Kit comes in a standard size with a height of 84”, width of 8’ and depth of 10’. A marine grade vinyl floor covering may be chosen additionally.

Diving Boards

A diving board is one of the best pontoon boat fun accessories for swimmers. If you are taking a trip on your pontoon, it is highly likely that you will be going for a dip in the water. You can consider adding a diving board to your pontoon to enhance your experience.

There are a few different types of diving boards available for pontoon boats. The most basic ones can be attached to the swimming platform at the rear of your boat. They consist of the diving platform, which can be fitted on the boat using a few bolts and screws.

Some diving boards for boats come with a ladder and frame for increasing the diving height. They can be installed on the deck or at the rear of the boat. The frame or the ladder is attached to the pontoon using bolts, and the diving board is mounted on the frame.

Diving boards for pontoons are specially designed and engineered to optimize energy transfer. It prevents the boat from rocking when a person dives off the board. The surface of the board is made from antislip materials to minimize the chances of accidents. Still, care must be taken when using a pontoon diving board. There is a risk of injury if you slip in excitement and hit the boat instead of the water. If you are searching for the best diving board for 2020, then consider the following option from Lillipad.

3. Lillipad Diving Board

pontoon boat accessories Lillipad Diving Board

The Lillipad Diving Board is a fun accessory for both kids and adults and is specially designed for installation on boats. It can be mounted on boats over 18 feet long and can support a weight of up to 250 pounds.

This board makes use of urethane springs unlike a pool board that flexes itself. Its patented framework design ensures minimal stress on boat by counteracting energy of the jumper. The board is constructed from heavy duty aluminum and stainless-steel components making it durable and long-lasting. The Lillipad Diving Board is available in underfloor and surface mounting options.

Platforms

Once you are in the water, you will need a way to get back onto the pontoon easily. A swim platform is designed for this purpose. They allow you to come out of the water and dry yourself before you step on the deck. Platforms may be made from different materials and have varying designs.

Types of Platforms

There are different types of swimming platforms, depending on their design and installation requirements.

Outboard Swim Platforms

Outboard swim platforms are quite popular on pontoons. They consist of a durable boarding platform that is accessible through a ladder. Their ladder may have one, two, or three steps, and could either be telescoped or folded back after use. A handrail may be provided on the platform to make it easier for people to get on the pontoon. Outboard swim platforms are generally installed on either side of the motor. Here are a couple of excellent outboard platforms with different designs.

4. EEz-In Outboard Transom Platform with Two-Step Telescoping Ladder

pontoon boat accessories EEz-In Outboard Swim Platform Telescoping Ladder

EEz-In Outboard Transom Platform allows individuals to easily board their pontoon boat from the water. It consists of a two-step stainless-steel telescoping ladder that leads to a platform made of high-density polyethylene material for improved durability. One-inch rails reinforce the platform and providing additional support. A single handrail is attached on one side of the platform to aid a person while climbing. While not in use, the ladder can be retracted under the platform. The EEz-In Outboard Transom Platform can be mounted on either side of the pontoon boat’s motor and carries MRP of $239.99. Mounting hardware must be purchased separately.

5. Pactrade Marine Boat Universal Swim Platform Under Mount Telescopic Ladder 1 Step Inboard

pontoon boat accessories Pactrade Boat Swim Platform

Pactrade offers a swim platform for pontoon boat owners and other types of boats. Their Under Mount Swim Platform is an ideal accessory that facilitates boarding the pontoon after a swim. The platform is made of high-strength polypropylene which makes it lightweight and resistant to fading and cracking. A single step ladder is made out of a 1” stainless steel tube and has a soft vinyl step. The ladder can be folded back onto the platform when not needed. Handrails are attached to platform for support while boarding. It is easy to install and comes with required fasteners for installing it. Pactrade manufactures a one step inboard platform but also manufacturers a 3 step platform that works with either inboard or outboard motors.

Fixed Platforms

Fixed platforms are the ones traditionally found on pontoons. The platform is installed at the rear of the pontoon, above the motor. Its width is the same as that of the pontoon, while the length is around a couple of feet. A telescoping ladder may be installed under the fixed platforms for easy access. Otherwise, users can climb on the platform directly. Fixed platforms have the most surface area out of the different types. They provide adequate space for individuals to dry off before they get on the boat. We have selected some of the best manufacturers of fixed platforms for you.

6. Swim Platforms, Inc. custom swim platforms

pontoon boat accessories Swim Platforms Inc Custom

Boat owners who like a swim platform customized to their needs can turn to Swim Platforms, Inc who construct quality platforms for boats. The material used for manufacturing the platform is fiberglass that is both lightweight and sturdy.

Every model manufactured is customized to fit the pontoon boat and blend seamlessly into its design and color scheme. Additional customization options include U style and P style swim handles, gel coating and lighting installation. The platform comes with all required installation hardware which is made of stainless-steel. A price quote for the platform can be requested while enquiring for the same.

7. Contemporary Fiberglass, Original Safe Step

pontoon boat accessories Contemporary Fiberglass Swim Platform

Contemporary Fiberglass’ Original Safe Step is another option for boat owners looking for a customized swim platform.

The company fabricates the platform in a size and style that conforms to the customer’s demand. Material used in construction is marine grade plywood and fiberglass that ensures that the platform lasts long.

pontoon boat accessories Contemporary Fiberglass Swim Platform 2

The platform finish is nonskid, providing safety to users. Customization options include addition of colors, graphics, hand rails and three-step drop-down boarding ladder. Besides these, a boat owner may consider getting LED lighting, vent, and even accessories such as barbeques installed on the platform.

Submersible Platforms

Submersible platforms are unique as they are installed at the front (bow) of the pontoon instead of the rear (stern). These platforms use a hydraulic mechanism that allows you to lower them when you are going for a swim and raise it for steering the pontoon. Submersible platforms may be ideal for pontoons, wherein it is unfeasible to install a platform at the rear due to multiple motors or other reasons. Splash step is one of the most popular submersible swim platform manufacturers.

8. Splash Steps – Submersible Swim Platform

pontoon boat accessories Splash Steps Submersible Swim Platform

Submersible Swim Platform from Splash Steps is a unique offering for pontoon boat owners. Unlike other platforms that attach to stern side of the boat, this model is installed on bow side. There is more room on the bow side as there are no outboard motors taking up space. This makes this platform both advantageous and safer than conventional models. It makes use of hydraulics and can be raised and lowered as needed. The linkage system, for maintaining balance, keeps the platform even with the bow. It is fully cudstomizable as per the needs of the boat owner and variants are also available for tri-pontoon boats.

Slides

Everyone loves water slides, irrespective of their age. You can experience the same fun on your pontoon boats by installing a water slide on them. They keep everyone entertained, be it children or adults. There are different types of water slides available for pontoon boats. Some of them are factory-fitted while a few aftermarket ones are also available.

Factory-fitted slides are mostly provided on pontoon boats with an upper deck. The slide is accessible from the upper level of the boat. It provides a reasonable height for the slide and grants momentum to its users. Also, the additional space on the upper deck ensures adequate space for using the slide safely. It keeps the energy and excitement of children to the upper deck while adults can lounge on the main deck of the pontoon.

If you own a pontoon with a pre-fitted upper deck, then the manufacturer of the boat may provide the slide as an accessory. People who have installed an aftermarket upper deck can order a custom slide. There are a few temporary slides also available that can be assembled before use and disassembled after use. They are ideal for pontoon owners who don’t have an upper deck on their boats. These slides can be stored in a compartment of the boat and are easy to use.

When using a slide, ensure that the water is deep enough. Provide swimming safety gear for children and young adults if they are going to use the slide while keeping an eye on them.

Here are a couple of great slides that you can consider.

9. RAVE Sports Pontoon Slide

pontoon boat accessories Rave Sports Pontoon Slide

Waterslides are always fun and even more so when on a pontoon boat. RAVE Sports pontoon slide is compact and a must have accessory for taking your pontooning experience to a whole new level. This 10’ slide is small enough for installation on a pontoon boat yet big enough for enjoying. The RAVE Sports pontoon slide is inflatable so it can be transported easily and then inflates within 5 minutes with the included air pump. It has straps that can attach to nearly any pontoon boat and is made of heavy duty material to take on days of pontoon boat sliding fun!

10. Slidewhizzer Kids 6′ Slide

pontoon boat accessories slidewhizzer wavy kids slide

Slidewhizzer 6′ Wavy Kids Slide is a great accessory for a pontoon boat trip. It can be carried in a space as small as the backseat of a car. Its assembly is quite simple and can be done with minimal hassles. The slide and ladder steps are made from plastic and a stainless-steel frame and support bar provide strength, stabilization and rigidity. Handrails are provided ensuring safety while climbing. A water hose may be attached to convert it into a water slide. It is a fantastic to keep children busy and occupied when going on a pontoon boat expedition.

Inflatable Water Platforms

Inflatable water platforms can be used to extend the usable space on your pontoon boat, so that you can have the extra dose of fun with family and friends.

11. Island Hopper Inflatable Water Platform

The inflatable water platform with a dimension of 15’ X 6’ x 6” can be used as an excellent patio platform extension for your pontoon boat. With a weight capacity of 2000 lbs, it can accommodate 10 or more people. By connecting multiple units, you can have even more people. It can be your sun bathing spot. You could also wakeboard, swim play and more. With the durable EVA foam surface, it is soft and non slippery. They have 11 side welded D rings of stainless steel and 24 top and bottom welded web loops for ensuring secure anchoring. They also feature 6 handles and other holding accessories. Auto set potable power inflator comes included. Costing under $100, 5 year limited warranty and 30 days money back guarantee is also offered.

pontoon boat accessories Island Hopper Inflatable Water Platform

12. Blue Water Toys Inflatable Swim Deck

If you are looking for a smaller one, then you can go for this one which has a load capacity of about 4. It is made from military grade material. They also have heat welded seams with extra Blue Guard Protection. Reflectors are present on four sides. With the stainless steel rings on the sides, you can with your pontoon boat. The kit also includes two way bravo pump, patch kit and storage bag. Priced under $500, they have a year warranty.

pontoon boat accessories Blue Water Toys Inflatable Swim Deck

Dog Ladder

Dog Ladders can be helpful for your pet friends to get in and out of the water.

13. Beavertail Aluminum Folding Dog Ladder

pontoon boat accessories Beavertail Aluminum Folding Dog Ladder

The ultra strong ladder comes with an aluminum and stainless steel construction. With this two way adjustable ladder, your pet can have an easy entry and exit into/out of the pontoon boat. The rubber arms can adjust easily to fit your pontoon boat so that you are assured of no scratches or any unwanted noise. As it is foldable, it is easy to store when not in use. Price is around $150.

14. Great Day Load-A-Pup Pet Loading Platform

pontoon boat accessories Great Day Load-A-Pup Loading Platform

The Load-A-Pup Pet Loading Platform can be hooked to your Pontoon boat’s boarding ladder with ease. Aircraft aluminum is used in the construction. With the gripping ridges safe and solid footing is ensured as the dog climbs back into your pontoon boat. The dog ladder is priced below $200.

Pontoon Boat Ramp

Pontoon Boat Ramps helps in loading and unloading your pontoon boat equipment, passengers including adults and even pets.

15. Harbor Mate Aluminum Pontoon Boat Ramps

They have a lightweight aluminum construction. The maximum weight capacity of the ramp is 600 lbs. It has 7.5′ length, which allows easy loading and unloading of passengers, pontoon accessories, etc. It has a traction surface which is non slippery. The universal mounting brackets allow them to fit most pontoon models. With 7.5′ L x 24″ W, it weighs only 62 lbs. Mounting hardware comes included. It will cost you around $650. 6 foot model is also available.

pontoon boat accessories Harbor Mate Aluminum Pontoon Boat Ramp

Click this link for additional information about Fun Pontoon Boat Accessories.

How Wide is a Pontoon Boat

May 18, 2022 by Dan

Pontoon boats comes in different shapes and size. The dimensions of the boats are affected by a number of factors that include the manufacturing company, the model and make of the boat and the purpose it is to be used for. Generally, the length determines how wide a pontoon boat is. These are generally in a specific ratio to each other. Addition of a third pontoon does not necessarily change the dimension of the boat. This article addresses the question “How Wide is a Pontoon Boat?”

Though different manufacturers have slightly different width to length ratios in their boats, a general classification can be made that defines how wide is a pontoon boat.

Small Pontoon Boats

Small size pontoon boats can be defined as ones that have a length that is less than 20 feet. These boats typically have a width which is around 8 feet. They generally have two pontoons with a diameter of 24 to 26 inches each. A smaller boat which may be 12 or 14 feet in length, may have a width of 7 feet. Sport CRB / QL from the house of Tahoe Pontoons is an example of such a boat. Its 14, 16 and even 18 feet models have a width of 7 feet. The Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 DLX has a width of 7 feet while the Party Barge 18 DLX from the same manufacturer is 8 feet and 2 inches wide. Small pontoon boats that are 7′ wide or less can also be characterized as mini pontoon boats. Click the following link to see our comprehensive guide to all major mini pontoon boats.

Mid-Size Pontoon Boats

The mid-size pontoon boats are classified as those having a width from 8 to 10 feet. These boats generally have a length that can vary between 20 feet to 40 feet depending on the manufacturer. The boats can have two or three pontoons as per the choice of the buyer. This segment has the highest number of boat models and is quite sought after. The 27 feet wide beam QX series from Bennington has a width of 10 feet and can accommodate 18 people easily. However, as you can see from a Sylvan brochure (one of my favorite pontoon boat brands, and most likely the brand that I will be purchasing JUST as soon as we have enough money saved up), all of their standard boats have a 102″ (or 8.5′) width. In the 20′-30′ range I would say most standard pontoon boats hover around the 8.5′ (+/- 6″) range.

Large Pontoon Boats

If someone is thinking how wide is a pontoon boat at maximum, there are a few pontoon boats that are almost 12 feet wide. The Dodici manufactured by Premier pontoon has a width of 11 feet and 10 inches and is available in 29 and 31 feet lengths. The boat can easily accommodate 26 people and has 26-inch side pontoons and a massive 42-inch center pontoon.

Different Widths of Pontoon Boats

By width of the pontoon boat, it can mean either the deck width or the tube width. Different manufacturers can include either one of two of them in their specifications. Now, beam width is something which is more of our concern as it will reflect on the space in the deck. Tube width on the other hand will reflect on the performance of your pontoon boat.

Width of Customized Pontoon Boats

Besides the standard widths of models from different pontoon boat brands, customized boats are also available. Various manufacturers, fabricate pontoon boats that are as per the requirements of their customers. The biggest of these boats may have width anywhere from 12 feet to 20 feet in proportion to the length of the boat and the intended usage for the boat. The boats can be from 30 feet to all the way up to 50-60 feet. These boats require pontoons that may be 30 to 60 inches in diameter. These boats are generally used for hosting parties and events for a large number of guests on the water. We hope that this articles has answered your Question “How Wide Is a Pontoon Boat”. Please feel free to ask questions below.

Factors to Consider when Selection the Right Size Pontoon Boat

Now we have had an idea of what we can expect in terms of the width when looking for pontoon boats. You can arrive at the proper choice of size of pontoon boats only after making some considerations. This becomes important as pontoon boats are a huge investment. With the right size of pontoon boat, you can have the right experience. Several factors influence the choice of pontoon boat size. Let us have a look at each of them in detail.

Storage and Transport

Storage and transport means need to be thought of even before you look out for the floorplans. The pontoon boat you intend to buy should fit your storage dock and the trailer in which you are looking to transport it, both in terms of length and width.

It is better to take the proper dock space measurements before looking for pontoon boats so that you can be assured that you are equipped with proper storage requirements beforehand. This will ensure that the pontoon boat fits the trailer. With the measurements of your dock space you can compare the measurements of the pontoon boat you intend to buy. This will give you guarantee that the pontoon boat you intend to buy will fit your space. Now if you plan to tow and store the pontoon boat in your storage space, then remember to include the length and width of the trailer too. Now in case of towing, take into account the combined weight of the pontoon boat and the trailer. This should be within the towing capacity of the vehicle you intend to use for towing

Note:

When considering length of pontoon boat, remover to include length of outboard motor which can take up about two or three feet.

For example, a 19 foot pontoon boat requires at least a 22 foot long trailer (with outboard motor)

Passenger Capacity

In order to arrive at the right choice of pontoon boats, you also have to have an idea about the people you expect to have with you in your pontoon boat adventures. The market is flooded with different pontoon boat models having different holding capacities. There is no shortage of options. So why make the wrong choice and repent later? It is not like you can go looking for new pontoon boats after a year or so when you realize the pontoon boat is not fitting your passenger capacity. Now, overloading your pontoon boat is a great unwanted risk. It can be very dangerous when you are out in the water and your pontoon boat is overloaded. The pontoon boat will remain stable, comfortable and safe in the water while traversing within its carrying capacity.

Now, the small pontoon boats can carry about 8 persons. As size increases, the carrying capacity increases. The medium sized pontoon boats can have about 10-12 people. There are larger pontoon boats with over 20 people capacities.

Location or Body of Water

how wide is a pontoon boat location body of water

There are different water bodies or locations to which you can take your pontoon boat. You can take them to lakes, rivers, bay, creeks, etc. Based on the location or the water body, the size consideration can vary. Now the smaller pontoon boats with smaller motors are well suited for small bodies of water like ponds and rivers. They are suited for such water bodies without high currents. If you take them to large bodies of water, they will have a hard time hitting those high currents. Now if you go for the reverse case and take a larger pontoon boat with you to a small river, then this can lead to navigational limitations. So if you are frequently into calm water bodies, then a small sized pontoon boat can let you sail smoothly, even through the shallow ones. However, if you look to navigate on those locations where the wave action gets high, then it is better look for larger sized pontoon boats, which are more stable under such conditions. It is better to go for those 23 to 28 feet long ones or the much larger ones with width ranging from 8.5 to 10 feet in such cases.

Note:

There are limitations on the sizes of boats in certain locations. This varies from state to state. So it is better to have a check on that before going for any larger models.

Pontoon Boat Recreational Activities and Size Considerations

Pontoon Boats are used for many different recreational activities. You can use them for fishing, partying, lounging or any other recreational activities like tubing, wakeboarding, etc. There are variations in the size considerations based on the intended purpose of using the pontoon boat. Then only you will be able to achieve the right experience in your water activities. So let us look into how we can select the correct pontoon boat sizes suiting the water activities we intend to carry out.

Fishing

Fishing is something which pontoon boat owners watch out for. Some cruising models also include options for fishing. The floorplan for fishing models should allow you to take all your fishing gears with you. There can be fishing rods, fishing nets, etc. requiring sufficient storage space. There can be livewells so that you can keep your catches fresh. The floorplan can also include fishing stations, tackle storage, etc. In general, about 22 feet long pontoon boats with 8.5 feet width will be a good choice for those passionate fishing anglers. As size increases, you get more in terms of storage and convenience. For those involved in occasional fishing and more of cruising, 19-20 feet long pontoon boat with 8 feet width will be a good choice.

Water Sports

how wide is a pontoon boat lounging swimming

For swimming and snorkeling, there is not much in terms of storage requirements. In this case, you need to have a check on the passenger capacities. You just need to have a check on the carrying capacity of your pontoon boat. You can take as many passengers with you based on the safe limit of your pontoon boat. For scuba diving and water skiing some equipment is required and hence storage requirements are also needed. Water sports like water skiing requiring pulling the ones involved in the activity require you to look into the speed and the motor of the pontoon boat. In such cases, the pontoon boat should have at least 90 HP maximum engine HP. You can ride wild with higher horsepower engines. Thus as the intensity of the water activity increases, you need to look for proper engine horsepower considerations too.

Sunbathing and Lounging

If you are just interested in cruising or partying with your friends, then you look for larger decks. With comfy seating options, you can relax and enjoy with your friends. The double decker pontoon boats with upper decks can give you a great location for sunbathing. They offer more shade. You also get much greater field of view from the upper deck. You can alsohave water slides which are great fun. These models usually come about 25 feet and more in length with width of 8.5 feet or more.

Best Pontoon Boat Names for 2022

May 13, 2022 by Dan

A pontoon boat is not just a water vessel. It is a companion, a friend for the good times and a relaxing getaway for stressful times. It is a ritual for all new boat owners to name their pontoon. Before you get on the water with your new pontoon boat, look up the best pontoon boat names to find the most suitable one for your boat.

Boats require maintenance and care and efforts for their upkeep. Every boat owner develops a relation with their boats and a feeling of belonging and it is ideal that a thing of such immense value and importance has a name of its own. The name gives an identity to the boat and hence it is customary to give it that honorary designation.

Best Pontoon Boat Names During COVID-19 2022:

Maybe it’s too soon but all of these creative boat owners are giving us new ideas for boat names post-COVID! Since it’s top of mind for everyone now you might as well have fun with it if you are naming a new pontoon boat! Here are the best COVID related pontoon boat names we have found so far! Send us a comment if we are missing any:

Covid Therapy

Cove It!

Social Distance

Social Distancing

Whoo- Hahn!!

Final Escape

Some of the best pontoon boat names:

A Wave From It All

Auto-Toon

B-4 reel

Blue Toon

Break Time

Bull Fish

Called in Sick

Crave-a-Wave

Crewless

Dances With Waves

Dark Side of the Toon

Drivin Miss Lazy

Eat Drink and Remarry

Finally A Wake

Fish Tank

Fishful Thinking

For Play

For Reel

Get Reel

Good Toons

Harvest Toon

High Toon

Hot Air Pontoon

Knot So Fast

Knot Too Shabby

Knot Working

Lead Pontoon

License 2 Chill

Liquid Assets

Looney Toons

Man of the Toon

Men Who Stare At Boats

Miss Behaven

Murphys Lure

National Pontoon’s Vacation

No Plane No Gain

O.Y. Knot

Over the Toon

Pond Toons

Post-it Boat

Reel Time

Rest A Shore

Shenanigans

Sick Day

Social Networking

Sunburn

The Incredible Hull

Thing 1 | Thing 2

Toon Machine

Toon Much Toon Soon

Tooned In

Tooned Out

What’s Knot to Like?

Y-Knot

A few more best pontoon boat names that are quite clever:

A Cool Change

A Fish Too Far

Aida Fish

Albavarden

Another Bad Hair Day

Apocalypso

Aquaquack

Aquaholic

Artifishal

Cant Take It With You

Captains Horrid Treasure

Chill Pill

Cold Behind

Crews-inn

Daly Devotion

Dark Secret

Daze Off

Devils Whore

Direct Deposit

Dos Winos

El Viento

Finale

Fish On Iv Ever

Fishin Fool

Gone Fission

H20 Office

Hang On Sloopy

Here Fishy Fishy

Just About Perfect

Just Us

Kingfish For A Day

Knotaklu

Lickety Split

Life Preserver

March Monkey

Mary Gale

Meant To Be

Miss Fitz

My Three Suns

Nobody You Know

Old As Dirt

On Line

One Moor Time

Pacific

Paw-seidon

Posideons Death

Round Tuit

Skimmer

South Shore Sun

Sturgeon General

Sun-day Driver

The Good Life

Tranquility

Viaqua

White Noise

Wicket Wet Too

“Wind” in Spanish

Wire We Here

Y-knot

Your Ad Here

Zephyr

Funny best pontoon boat names below:

Afternoon Poon

A-loan at Last

Amy’s Wine-House

Andiamo

Aquaholic

Auto-Toon

Bail Out

Beeracuda

Berth Control

Brews and Poon

Dark Side of the Toon

Docked Wages

Drivin’ Miss Lazy

Eat Drink and Remarry

Fish Tales

Get Reel

Grounds for Divorce

Gypsea

Hakuna Matata

Happy Hours

Har-poon

Harvest Toon

High Toon

In Deep Ship

Knot On-Call

Liquid Asset

Liquid Assets

Looney Toon

Miss Behavin’

Moon Poon

Name that Toon

National Pontoon’s Vacation

No Plane No Gain

On the Rocks

Over the Toon

Pier Pressure

Plan B

Pond Toons

Pontoon-icating

Poon Toon

Poon Town

Poonin’

Pura Vida

Reel Time

Rest A Shore

Rock Bottom

Sea Senora

Sea-Battical

Seaduction

Sea-esta

Sea-Rossis

Seas the Day

She got the house

Ship Faced

Silver Lining

Sir Docks-a-lot

The Incredible Hull

The Salt Shaker

Time Out

Toon Deaf

Toon Down for What!

Toon in Tokyo

Toon Me Up

Toon Much Toon Soon

Toon Time

Toonces

Tooned In

Tooned Out

Toon-Tastic

Wet Dream

What’s up Dock?

How to Name Your Pontoon Boat

In this era of fast growing internet technologies, naming your pontoon boat is not a tough task. You need not even have to stress or make it hard on your brain. There are a lot of options available on the internet. We ourselves have discussed quite a list of pontoon boat name suggestions. If you find any of them interesting, then your work is done. Or else, if you want to explore your creative corner, then you can also go with that. Here we present some of the tips which can make your mission fruitful easily. Your naming journey can be a better task with these tips in mind.

Invest Some Time

When you search for pontoon boat names, many options will come in right through. With many options in hand, it may seem tough to arrive at the best option. You need not have to worry much. Here is when patience counts. You need to invest some time in arriving at the best possible name for your pontoon boat. You should not burden yourself with stress as you are not time limited. You are not bound to name your pontoon boat the moment you buy them or even in the coming days. You can take your time.

Short Names are Catchy

Remember that short names grab more attention than long names. Also, longer names can take up more space and you may have to worry about whether they will fit into your pontoon boat or not. It also makes it easier to mention short names during your conversations.

A Big “No” for Offensive Words

Your pontoon boat name can reflect your outlook in a way. Using offensive or ruse words can create bad impression. It will never go well as you set to sail. It can also get embarrassing mentioning the name in public. Remember that it is not cool to use such names.

Explore Your Creative Side

This can be the best occasion for you to explore your creative side. You can wordplay and then it will be a fun experience. You can look for cool, clever and funny options. Funny names can give a moment of joy for those looking at your pontoon boat. They also impart good vibes when you have a discussion with your friends. You can even make your personal experiences reflect in the name of our pontoon boat. This can also make you feel more attached to the vessel as you have a part of your memory attached to your pontoon boat. You can also have the names of your loved ones as pontoon boat names. This can remind you of the best times or moments spent in your lives.

Name Should Match the Pontoon Boat Style

Whatever be the name you intend to put it should match the style of your pontoon boat. Like for a sports pontoon you can look for more of sporty names.

Be Up to Date

You can also invest your time and effort and be up to date in your suggestions. You can include technological booms or related aspects. In the scenario of pandemic outburst many can also look for such names which may seem relevant.

Significance of Pontoon Boat Names

Naming or not naming your pontoon boat can be a personal choice. However, in my view, as owning a pontoon boat is a huge investment you make, it can have a distinct recognition of its own. Naming your pontoon boat will give the necessary recognition for your pontoon boat. If you are someone who loves naming your favorite things, then why not have a good name for your pontoon boat. You have a name for your pet, your house, etc. Naming the pontoon boat will bring in the joy every time you address her. It becomes easy to bring up the name in your conversations with your friends. Creative names can further stretch out the conversation. Striking names can let your pontoon boat sand out in the crowd. The names can also reflect on the personality of the owner. By giving your pontoon boat a new name, you are making it a special part of your lasting memories for future adventures. They are indeed special as they are your travel buddies, your means of relaxation. You look out for fun and lasting memories when out with your pontoon boat. Naming the pontoon boat can also make you more attached to the pontoon boat. You can feel a sense of closeness as you hit hard on the waters with your pontoon boat.

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures for 2022

May 13, 2022 by Dan

Unlike a car that has a roof to protect it from the adverse effects of weather, a pontoon boat is directly exposed to forces of nature. This is where pontoon boat canopy enclosures become quite handy. They provide privacy, and protect from the hot sun and its UV rays. These enclosures even help when encountering rough weather such as a rolling thunderstorm when you are caught in the middle of a lake (I am talking to you everyone in the Midwest!). Canopy enclosures transform your boat into a floating lodge and are great for long trips.

Pontoon boat canopy enclosures can generally consist of just simply a bimini on top that provides protection from the sun all the way to a full enclosure that includes a roof for the length of your pontoon boat and full sides with windows that can truly turn your pontoon boat into a weatherproof vehicle. These full enclosures might be biminis that are extended by adding curtains that have zippers. The best full enclosures are made custom from good quality durable and weatherproof material such as acrylic fabric. Isinglass is commonly employed for plastic see through windows of the curtains. When I think of a “pontoon boat canopy enclosur” I think of the real deal, totally waterproof enclosure.

If you are in a rush here are a few of our favorite Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures:

Title	Why We Like
Naviskin Bimini Top Cover	Best Bimini Top	Check Price
SureShade Power Bimini Shade System	Best Electric Bimini for Pontoons	Check Price
Northstar Double Bimini Top	Best Double Bimini	Check Price
VINGLI Bimini Top Boat Cover	Best Value Bimini	Check Price
Taylor Made Bow Enclosure	Best Bow Enclosure	Check Price
Oceansouth Bimini Extension Airflow Boat Shade	Best Bimini Extension	Check Price

Full Canopy Enclosure

Full canopy enclosures cover the entire area of the boat from bow to stern and enclose the sides too. A full pontoon boat canopy enclosure is like having your own movable cottage on the sea. These offer comprehensive protection from the weather conditions both when sailing as well as when the boat is moored. It is almost double in size to half canopy enclosure. For someone who owns a large boat and sails with quite a few companions on board especially for long durations, the full canopy enclosure is ideal. These start around $3500.

Besides these, multiple manufacturers also have customized designs for pontoon boat canopy enclosures.

Pre-Installed vs Custom Fitted

The canopy enclosures might be added in the package when ordering a boat or they might be retrofitted. Pre-installed canopy enclosures are generally top notch as they are manufactured and installed by the boat company itself which ensures that the best material is used for the same and fitting and installation is of professional quality.

After market fitting of pontoon boat canopy enclosures is a bet that may go both ways. A well trained professional custom fitter, will make a fitting as close to the original while an unqualified installation job will not be as proficient and might even make a mess of the job. It is best to add a canopy enclosure while ordering a boat.

No one likes to see their prized possession covered up in dirt and grime. If left out in the open for long durations, the pontoon boats can get tarnished. These enclosures provide cover both on water and when the boats are moored, adding them to every boat owners must have list. Here are a few companies who specialize in making full pontoon boat canopy enclosures.

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures Manufacturers

Paul’s Custom Canvas, Inc.

Now, I am going to have to play “hometown favorite” for a little here. For those of you who don’t know I reside just south of Denver in Colorado. Around these parts “Paul’s Custom Canvas” is synonymous with full pontoon boat canopy enclosures. Whenever a marine dealer is selling a boat with a full enclosure in Colorado it is made by Paul’s Custom Canvas 99% of the time. Nearly all they do is create custom canvas enclosures and man does it show! They make every single cover custom for your boat so you will definitely have to give them a call and explain exactly what you are looking for. Since everything is custom they can basically make the enclosure and the windows out of anything you want but they have certainly earned their spot as “experts” at what they do so if you order what they recommend you are nearly guaranteed to be satisfied with the end project. Now, I do understand that the word “custom” typically means expensive and a long lead time but sometimes when you need a one of a kind item that’s the route you have to go!

Lavignes Canvas Co.

Lavigne’s Canvas Co., Canada formed in 1995 has been working in North Bay and surrounding areas. They offer many reliable and durable boat tops. They have been producing reliable, durable and stylish boat tops. Top quality workmanship is provided. Mobile service offers flexible service to the customers. The marine canvas and upholstery materials used are of superior quality. They use Top Gun, Sunbrella, Costguard, Harbor Time, YKK zippers, UV protected threads and DOT fasteners. The materials are offered a 5 year manufacturer’s warranty.

With the full pontoon enclosures, you can create a cozy living space for your family and friends. It covers the complete pontoon seating area with full protection from the elements, thereby which your pontoon boat can be turned into a RV on the water. If the full pontoon enclosure is too much for you, then you can have it scaled down to a half pontoon enclosure. The half pontoon enclosure can cover the rear section of the boat up to the helm area. With the tonneau cover in the front section, the pontoon boat interior can be protected. Also with the custom luxury pontoon enclosures, you can have the most stylish pontoon boat on the water.

Ameritex Direct

Ameritex Technologies merged with Taylor Made in 2009 to become Ameritex Fabric Systems. They are a member of the Taylor Made Group, LLC. From AmeritexDirect, you can have boat tops and enclosures which are of great fit, highly engineered and of top quality. You can use the quote request form for further details. Ameritex provides pontoon boat covers and pontoon boat enclosures to some of the best brands in the business. Based on the make and model of the boat, AmeritexDirect can supply you with the exact enclosure of your requirement based on the specifications of your pontoon boat builder. You can have the enclosure with frame or if your pontoon boat’s existing frame is well off, then you can also go for the fabric alone. The enclosures are of ready to install type. So you can have quick and easy installation without much worry. You also have access to replacement parts as well.
However, due to high demand from the boat builder partners, Ameritex is not taking consumer direct orders at present. You can check with the site for the latest updates.

Dowco Marine Products

Dowco Marine Products prides itself in being an innovator in aftermarket pontoon boat products and accessories, and they are NOT lacking in the pontoon boat canopy enclosure department! The benefit of finding a pontoon boat canopy at Dowco (based out of Manitowoc, Wisconsin) is that they have pre-selected a large number of pontoon boat models that they can make a canopy for. If you browse through their website they have a HUGE selection available, so cross your fingers and type in your boat model and hopefully it will come up on their list. They are actually the OEM manufacturer for a number of boat brands including Tracker, Lowe, G3, Crestliner, Lund, Xpress, Veranda, Mirrocraft, Harris, Barletta, Landau, Alumacraft, Mirrocraft, Ranger, Triton, Nitro, Tahoe, SunTracker, Premier, Hurricane, and Silverwave so if you are looking for a cover for one of those brands chances are pretty good that you can find one from Dowco. They were previously purchased by Patrick Industries in 2018 but at this time it does not look like the acquisition effects their canvas division much.

Canvas Craft

Canvas Craft is another custom pontoon boat enclosure manufacturer who is based in Otsego, MN. They make a number of different products out of canvas so chances are if you can dream it they can make it! Making pontoon boat covers doesn’t look like it’s necessarily their “specialty” but they certainly appear to be able to make anything that you would want for your boat so feel free to give them a call and see what they can do!

Bimini Tops

Bimini tops basically come standard on any boat nowadays so if you have purchased a new boat in the last 5-10 years chances are you got one thrown in with your boat. If your boat did not come with one and you need a new one a bimini consists of a metal frame that has some sort of canvas covering its top and might be fixed or retractable. They are described as how many bows they have (3 bow or 4 bow typically), not to be confused with the bow (front) of the boat. Not confusing at all, right? Retractable biminis may be automatic with an electric motor to draw them back and forth. Standalone biminis provide shelter from overhead sun but don’t offer protection from the sides. Biminis are available in different lengths, widths, and heights. Here is a list of our favorite bimini pontoon boat canopy enclosures manufacturers are made to fit a number of boats and are readily available.

Top Ten Bimini Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosure Manufacturers

Naviskin Bimini Top Cover

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures Bimini Tops Naviskin

The Naviskin Bimini Top Cover is a very popular bimini online. It is very versatile because it comes in a very many sizes and colors including 6 “3 bow” sizes, 7 “4 bow” sizes, and every size can come in 10 different colors including light grey, pacific blue, navy blue, beige, black, burgundy, white, dark gray, teal, and green. Reviewers like that the bimini top comes with all of the necessary structure including a 1″ aluminum frame and all of the hardware that you need to mount it to your boat. Then all you need is 2 beers and about 45 minutes and you should be able to install a nice new bimini top on your boat! Although the vast majority of people who purchased the Naviskin Bimini Top Cover gave it 5 stars there are a small percent of owners who commented that the bimini material felt a little thin, and others commented that the original hardware (screws, etc…) was a little loose so they have to replace some of it with hardware readily available from a hardware store.

Leader Accessories Bimini Boat Tops

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures Bimini Tops Taylor Made

Leader Accessories has been mainstay in marine accessories for over 30 years. They make anything from pontoon seats to dock edges and even marine stereos. They also make a number of pontoon boat covers and pontoon boat canopy enclosures. Their bimini top is a high quality item and comes highly recommended. They also have a bimini top especially made for boats with wakeboard towers. They do list a whole bunch of sizes online so make sure that your measure your boat well so the size is correct when you order a bimini top from Leader Accessories. One fun fact that I wanted to throw out there: Leader Accessories appears to make a lot of RV covers and accessories, but they are using their knowledge and expertise on covers to expand into the marine and boating world! They are based out of Beloit, WI.

SureShade Power Bimini Electric Shade System for Pontoon Boats

Pontoon Boat Enclosures SureShade Power Bimini Electric Shade System

Sureshade makes an Electric Power Bimini Shade System that is SPECIFICALLY for pontoon boats. This makes us very happy because we all know that pontoon boats are a little wider and a little straighter than an open bow or fishing boat. So that means that you can purchase the Sureshade with full confidence that it will fit great on your pontoon boat. *Disclaimer* – make sure you measure first, don’t take my word for it! Regardless this 4 bow power pontoon bimini looks perfect for a pontoon boat because it is a nice long size of 8′ long and so it is made to cover nearly half of your boat (unless you are a lucky owner of a huge pontoon boat) and it is power top that goes up with the touch of a button. We don’t see very many electric bimini systems out there so we are excited about this one. People who have purchased the Sureshade Electric Power Bimini Shade System seem to be generally pleased with the quality of the product, but spend a lot of time researching installation instructions to get it right. Once it is in place and working most purchasers appear to be very happy with their purchase!

Northstar Double Bimini Top

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures Bimini Tops Northstar

Now this is what I am talking about! When I run into a pontoon boat owner they usually appreciate having a huge deck to lounge on (or party on for your youngsters) and I can’t think of a better way to hang out on a pontoon than with a big old double bimini top. Now don’t get me wrong, you can always buy two bimini tops and put them close to each other, but then you run into the issue of what to do around the crack between the two. Rain gets in, sun gets through, and some poor sap is stuck in the “crappy seat” that splits the two. That’s why I am excited to find the Northstar Double Bimini Top because they offer a legitimate, OEM quality double bimini top. Some bonuses to buying from Northstar include: their customer service is SUPER responsive, they answer every question asked of them very quickly, they make everything in the US, and they can actually help you figure out if their tops fit your boat. If they don’t, then they are willing and able to make any size you want to make sure it fits! Additionally, as I mentioned they use OEM quality canvas and framework so you can expect a legitimate double bimini top when the Northstar Double Bimini Top arrives at your door.

VINGLI Bimini Top Boat Cover

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures Bimini Tops Vingli

If you are looking for a high quality pontoon boat bimini top at an incredible price then you will find it with the VINGLI Bimini Top Boat Cover. They appear to be a pretty new brand (at least to the US) and I am 99% sure that they are based overseas somewhere but it appears that they have a fully stocked warehouse in the US and they make a wide range of products for either backyard pools or boats. Their bimini tops are super inexpensive compared to nearly all other tops, and the vast majority of people purchasing them expect a low quality product at this price point but are surprised at the high quality and ease of installation when the product arrives. There are not a lot of color or size options but if you find a VINGLI Bimini Top Boat Cover online that fits your boat and you like one of the standard colors they offer then you can buy it with a high confidence that you will be able to install it easily and it will be a great product. Some of the hardware they offer is vinyl instead of stainless but people have found the the hardware that usually breaks is all made of high quality material and that their biminis are lasting a long time.

MSC Bimini Top

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures Bimini Tops MSC

MSC makes a nice Bimini Top as well. They have either a 3 bow or a 4 bow top available and they offer a whole range of colors including gray, tan, burgundy, navy, royal blue, forest green, and black. People who purchase the MSC top are generally pleased with the purchase especially considering that it’s relatively inexpensive compared to some of the other choices. A couple of tips from previous buyers is to replace the hardware that attaches the bimini to your boat with higher quality hardware because the screws that comes with the bimini are a pretty cheap plastic. Also, the canvas that is used is not an OEM quality heavy duty canvas, but if you don’t mind the couple of issues above people are generally happy with their purchase when they buy an MSC Bimini Top.

Savvycraft Bimini Top

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures Bimini Tops Savvycraft

Savvycraft Biminis come highly rated from buyers. Similar to VINLGI, people make the purchase not knowing what to expect but are general very happy with quality of the bimini top when it shows up. There are many colors to choose from and you can pick either the 3 bow or 4 bow bimini depending on how big you are looking for. It doesn’t look like they have the most responsive customer service but when buyers did experience a damaged package replacement parts were sent right away. The fabric is not the “super thick” kind that people dream about and that comes with your boat out of the factory but buyers are generally pleased with the fabric and the structure.

King Bird Bimini Top

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures Bimini Tops King Bird

The King Bird Bimini Top appears to be very similar to the last bimini tops that we reviewed. 1″ aluminum, decent canvas but not the thickest. I am starting to think that all of these bimini tops are coming out of the same factory overseas and that they are just slapping a different logo on them as they leave the factory! Oh well! It does seem like there are a couple of differences with Kind Bird Bimini Tops compared to the other reviewed tops. I do want to preface this by saying that the vast majority of buyers are happy with the product and would buy it again. It does appear that the person who wrote the instructions on how to assemble the top was overly tired, drinking too much, or didn’t actually know how to assemble the top themselves but attempted to write the instructions anyhow, so it has been advised to just throw away the instructions and look at the website picture to figure out assembly! Additionally, some buyers recommend replacing ALL hardware as this comes with the less durable plastic hardware. At that point you might as well buy some of the other biminis above that come with some of the upgraded hardware already but to each his own!

Stock Canopy Enclosures

An enclosure either half or full is an expansion of the bimini. Curtains of canvas are added to the bimini to extend it from top to the sides. These generally have zippers for entering and exiting the enclosures. A half pontoon boat canopy enclosure will require one bimini while a double enclosure will be installed with two biminis.

Half Canopy Enclosure

A boat with a half canopy enclosure will have some part of it covered. This generally is installed in the center of the boat but is a bit more towards the stern. These are best for small boats and people who are travelling in groups of few individuals. Custom half pontoon boat canopy enclosures of decent quality may start from $1500 – $2000 but if you can find a stock half canopy enclosure or a bimini extension then they are a lot less expensive. Here are a few that we like.

Taylor Made Bow Enclosure

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures Taylor Made Bow

We previously featured a Taylor Made Bimini Top but where Taylor Made really shines in pontoon boat canopies is their “additional” products offerings that other manufacturers don’t offer. The first of those products is the Taylor Made Bow Enclosure. This enclosure is really made for those of us who want to use the pontoon boat to sleep in or camp in at night. It serves as a waterproof tent. Please note that you are NOT supposed to keep this enclosure up while you are in motion, it’s only supposed to be setup when you are anchored. The majority of buyers of the Taylor Made Bow Enclosure are happy with the product but some have suggested that the pole holders could do a little longer so they don’t slip out so easily, and the straps that strap the enclosure to the pontoon boat rails could be a little longer, but overall a great product!

Oceansouth Bimini Extension Airflow Boat Shade

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures Bimini Tops Oceansouth Extension Airflow

If you already have a bimini and are still longing for more shade but don’t want to spend a lot of money then the Oceansouth Bimini Extension Airflow is for you. It is made specifically to attach to an existing bimini and extend the shade to the back with the help of a couple of additional poles in the back and four straps (2 in the front, 2 in the back). People who have purchased the Oceansouth Bimini Extension are impressed with the product overall and really like the durability of the fabric. A few critiques are that some users can’t get it super tight unless they modify the fabric but that is a little bit to be expected since this product is a universal product made to be installed on a number of different boat models.

Taylor Made Products T-Top Bow Shade

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures Bimini Tops T Top Bow Shade

If you are looking for a canopy for the front of your boat but you aren’t looking for a “tent-like” structure such as the Taylor Made Bow Enclosure then maybe another good option for you would be the Taylor Made T-Top Bow Shade. This is more like a bimini type structure (or is actually made to attach to a T-Top but I think would attach to a bimini too) and is more breathable, so you can sit under it but actually still feel the breeze or look outside (kind of why you bought a boat in the first place, right?). If you do want a lot more shade Taylor Made makes a very similar “Playpen Shade/Bow Area Shade” that is made to attach directly to the pontoon rail with no light shining through. People who have purchased the Taylor Made T-Top Bow Shade are really impressed with the value of the product and their only complaint is that it is advertised to fit on a 24′ boat but really should max out at a 21′ or less boat. Please keep in mind these are made more for center console boats with a t-top but I am guessing you can make it work with a pontoon!

North East Harbor Boat Sun Shade Extension

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures Bimini Tops North East Harbor Boat Shade Extension

The North East Harbor Boat Shade Extension is very similar to the Taylor Made extension – it is made to be install at the stern and attached to an existing bimini (or t-top). It gets excellent reviews and people are very impressed with the high quality of the fabric and extra two pole for a relatively low price. It is made to protect you from the sun and is very easy to setup and take down.

Gazebos

The Gazebo shade top will hover above the front bow of your pontoon boat providing you with the much needed shade plus a good view of the water. It should be noted that a Gazebo will obstruct the driver’s vision and hence is not to be used when the boat is in motion. It is designed so that you get shade while anchored or moored.

The Taylor Made Gazebos will provide you with an easy and quick way to gain additional shaded area on your pontoon boat. It can accommodate both 96″ and 102″ wide pontoon boats and also extends out to 8 feet of coverage. The Gazebo is being constructed from Hot Shot polyester fabric of marine grade which is both UV and mildew resistant. It is lightweight, yet strong. The shock corded fiberglass pole framework support system will break down for easy storage. With the large interior radius, you get excellent headroom and you can sit comfortably without bending over. It allows easy attachment and removal. Nine color options are available to match with your pontoon boat. The permanently mounted hardware need to be installed to your rail, the Gazebo then attaches to it easily and also comes down in minutes. Shade top, frame, marine grade hardware, etc. is included. Storage bag is also included. The Gazebo measures 8′ long X 102″ wide X 50″ high from the mounting point.

Playpen Shade

Playpen shade is another quick and easy way to gain some additional shaded area on your pontoon boat. It will also protect your pontoon boat seats not only from the harmful UV rays from the sun but also from the other harsh weather conditions. However, it can block driver’s view and should not be used underway.

The Taylormade playpen shade is available in sizes which can accommodate pontoon boats up to 102″ wide, extending out to 12 feet of coverage. It is constructed from Hot Shot^™ polyester fabric of marine grade. The fabric is resistant to both UV and mildew. The playpen shade is lightweight, yet strong. The adjustable straps with quick release buckles will make way for fast and simple installation. It can be secured to the front bow of your existing bimini or hard top and down to the playpen railing. The playpen shade will fold down to a compact size allowing for ease of storage. It is available in nine color options so that you can have the best match for your pontoon boat.

Bow Enclosures

Bow enclosure or cover is used for pontoon boat shade and privacy. It will add shade, shelter and also privacy to the bow area of your pontoon boat. However, they should not be used when underway.

Pontoon Boat Canopy Enclosures Taylor Made Bow Enclosure

The TaylorMade Bow Enclosure offers a spacious enclosure which provides comfort and convenience. It is constructed from polyester fabric shell which is fire retardant and durable. They have a zippered entryway and mesh windows. The bow enclosure is supported by shock corded fiberglass pole framework. With the large interior radius, you can sit comfortably without bending or crouching. The interior created by this shock corded fiberglass pole frameworks allows for plenty of headroom. The Pontoon Boat Bow Enclosure measures approximately 56″ L x 74″ H (varies slightly by beam and railing height). It can fit both 96″ and 102″ width pontoon boats. The large interior radius allows you to sit with comfort on the existing seating without bending over or crouching down. The permanent hardware needs to be installed at first. With the instruction manual, you can set up or break down the bow enclosure within minutes for easy storage. As the enclosure is available in multiple colors, you can best match them with your existing bimini or canvas. Storage bag is included for convenient storage.

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