Introduction
The pontoon boats are famous sea vessels known for various unique purposes. One of such recreational activities is tubing which requires specific boat models. The best pontoon boats for tubing are more durable to withstand constant usage. What’s more, these boats come with top-notch features and modifications that meet tubing requirements.
Tubing boats come in a wide range of sizes, with numerous features and designs meant for specific tasks. Aside from horsepower, another essential factor is the number of people tubing behind the boat. For instance, pontoon boats with 115 horsepower or more will be ideal for tubing. Picking the right tubing boat could be tricky for any buyer, especially someone without prior knowledge.
We’ve put together a list of the best pontoon boats for tubing in this guide. These boats range from compact models to high-capacity vessels that guarantee a thrilling experience at sea. Hopefully, a model on this list catches your eye!
Why Buy Pontoon Boats for Tubing?
Most people are yet to fully understand what these vessels are capable of, including pontoon boat owners or those looking to buy. Pontoon boats have become popular in recent years because of their versatility and prominent features. The list of what a pontoon boat can do is endless, which is why people of all age groups are exploring the option of owning one.
There are three main factors to consider before buying a pontoon boat for tubing:
The Attaching Point
The attaching point for connecting the towing rope is a crucial aspect to consider. It would help to get the proper equipment that will fit the boat. Most pontoon boats come with built-in tow bars tubing attaching ropes. The buyer can choose to install it or ask the dealer to conduct the installation process. Ensuring the tow bar is strong enough to pull the tube is crucial as most tow bars can’t withstand the stress.
The Number of Persons Tubing
Knowing the number of people tubing behind the boat is another essential factor. It is okay if the ship has to drag one person because the vessel won’t work too hard to reach top speed. If a boat with a low horsepower engine has to carry two or more persons behind, there would be a significant reduction in the rate of the vessel. For anyone to experience a thrilling ride on a pontoon boat, the tubing should accommodate only two people and nothing more.
The Boat Model
The boat’s horsepower determines the main factor determining the vessel can pull a tube. Most pontoon boats have an average speed limit of 14.5 to 25 miles per hour. The horsepower will decide if the ship can draw lines at high speeds with this speed range. Therefore, pontoon boats with more increased horsepower are ideal for tubing.
Essential accessories needed for a pontoon boat to pull a tube include
A Tow Harness
A high-quality tow harness is one of the crucial components needed for a pontoon boat to pull a tube behind. The harness creates a stable attachment point behind the vessel’s outboard and is ideal for tubing activities. A good example is the Airhead Watersports Tow Harness which is highly rated for towing tubes behind a pontoon.
A Pylon or Tow Bar
Pylons are the perfect choice for many water sporting activities, including tubing. It holds the tow in place despite the significant weight and stoutness. A pylon or tow bar is pretty easy to use and reduces strains from the rope to allow it to slide from side to side. If a pontoon boat doesn’t have a pylon, the owner can use tow bars such as the Turbo-Swing Ski Tow Bar.
A Tow Rope
A tow rope is an essential accessory for tubing behind a pontoon boat. Every boat owner needs a good yarn to pull the tube without much difficulty. It is ideal to look for a strong rope capable of withstanding the stress of dragging a tube.
There are three ways of setting up a tube on a pontoon boat:
- Using a tow harness
- Using a ski pylon
- Using a tow bar
The Best Pontoon Boats For Tubing
The best pontoon boats for tubing in the market come with custom-built specifications. Below are some of the best pontoon boats for tubing:
The Malibu TXI Open Bow:
The Malibu TXI Open Bow offers the three-event performance required for water sports activities like tubing. With a T-Cut diamond hull, this pontoon boat has proved its high-quality performance over time. It has a luxurious open-bow that allows a tube connection for two extra passengers.
Features of the Malibu TXI Open Bow
- The Malibu TXI has a dry weight of 3100 pounds.
- It consists of marine-grade fiberglass.
- The vessel comes with a 7-inch touchscreen display.
- It has a standard engine with a 360 horsepower engine.
- The Malibu open edition accommodates up to 7-persons.
The Premier 220 Cast-Away:
The Premier 220 Cast-Away is one of the perfect pontoon boat models for tubing and fishing. It comes with polished aluminum docks and navigation lights. The boat has dual lifting strakes and movable fender clips for attaching a tubing rope.
Features of the Premier 220 Cast-Away
- Automatic dual-battery control system.
- The boat comes with soft-touch furniture cup holders.
- Wireless charging phone mount.
- Movable fender clips.
- It comes with RGB speaker lights.
The SX Premium Model:
The SX Premium Model is one of the best-selling pontoon boat models loaded with custom-built features. It offers high-performance options and power packages of up to 250 horsepower. This pontoon model comes with an intuitive layout and is easy to operate while on the water.
Features of the SX Premium Model
- The SX Premium comes with dual seating areas comprising L-Bench and quad bench.
- It comes with a standout Bimini frame and bumper trim.
- The floor plan offers twin lounge seats for ultimate relaxation.
- The quad bench configuration maximizes lounge space, seating, and storage capacity.
- The vessel has an integrated toe-kick that makes it easier to move about onboard.
The Prince Craft RL Vectra:
The Prince Craft RL Vectra is a top-quality pontoon boat with lots of space to accommodate ten persons. With an engine ranging from 40 – to 150 horsepower, it is the ideal boat for water sporting activities and tubing. In addition, there is a sundeck with an adjustable backrest and a captain passenger seat for maximum relaxation and comfort.
Features of the Prince Craft RL Vectra
- The Prince Craft RL Vectra comes with a custom-built bow gate and locks hinges for tubing.
- It has 4-waterproof speakers.
- The smoked windscreen comes with a quick-release feature.
- The seating lounge has storage compartments underneath.
- The vessel weighs 2047 pounds.
The Lowe SS 210 CL:
The Lowe SS 210 CL is a unique pontoon boat model ideal for tubing and fishing. The console comes with comfort-grip steering, automobile-grade gauges, and ready access to the captain’s electronics. A storage compartment under the seats means enough room for the fishing and tubing gear. The Lowe SS 210 CL guarantees durability and top performance with reliable mercury power and quality construction.
Features of the Lowe SS 210 CL
- The Lowe SS weighs 2538 pounds.
- It has a 30-gallon fuel capacity.
- The vessel can accommodate up to six people and has a maximum passenger weight capacity of 2273 pounds.
- The aft conversion lounge has enough space to watch tubing and watersports activities behind the boat.
- The Kicker sound system allows passengers to pump out music during boat cruises.
The Bennington QX Sport:
The Bennington QX Sport is a pontoon boat model that delivers top-notch performance no matter the water. The integrated custom wake tower and windshield seamlessly blend performance and style. Its long list of design attributes and exclusive features is perfect for tubing once the boat hits the water.
Features of the Bennington QX Sport
- The built-in commercial-grade refrigerator elevates the passenger’s boating experience.
- The integrated docking lights, custom bow gate design, and spacious front deck bring a unique flow and character.
- The exclusive interior comes with premium materials and luxurious finishes for added comfort.
- Its audio components have a powerful high-grade system that offers a full-range sound experience.
- The Bennington QX Sport has a hidden integrated kitchen sink that over-delivers every way.
Safety Tips To Follow When Tubing Behind A Pontoon Boat
There are specific safety tips to avoid accidents or crashing into the boat when riding on a tube behind a pontoon boat. Below are some safety tips to follow when tubing behind a pontoon:
Observe The Riders
When riding on a tube, it is essential to have another person with you in the pontoon boat to watch whoever is on board.
Use Strong Ropes for Tubing
There are specific ropes with high tensile strength designed for tubing. Using the proper strings when tubing behind a pontoon boat is ideal for preventing snapping in half or injuring someone.
Make Use of the Safety Gear
A Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is the minimum safety gear requirement onboard the pontoon boat. The PFD is an ideal and priceless device to have when tubing as it offers protection in an accident. The boat owner should ensure that everyone is wearing a proper-fitting life jacket. Don’t forget to apply enough waterproof sunscreen to protect the skin from sunlight rays.
Double-Check the Connections
It is important to note that only the required ropes, pylon, tow bar, and harness can pull a tube. Pontoon boat manufacturers now offer pylons and ski tow bars for tubing. These manufacturers recommend using a standard harness to hook the U-bolts at the end of the pontoon if the boat doesn’t have a pylon or tow bar.
Final Thoughts
Tubing behind a pontoon boat is an excellent way of creating memories on the water with friends and family members. However, knowing the proper boat to use for the activity is a crucial factor to consider. Using the best pontoon boats for tubing ensures that the rider experiences a hitch-free moment without accidents or injuring someone else.
