Pontoon Boats

Harris FloteBote Pontoons

Official Company Name: Harris FloteBote, Inc.

Manufacturer’s Website: www.harrisboats.com

Established: 1957

Other Brands Associated with Manufacturer (Current or Past): Brunswick Corporation, Bayliner, Crestliner, Harris, Lowe Boats, Prince Craft, Sea Ray.

Model Line Up

Most Popular Model:

Sunliner Series – The Sunliner Series of pontoons from Harris is a favorite of many families. They are quite versatile with lengths ranging from 20 to 24-foot and come with luxurious features for having a fun on the lake be it cruising, swimming or watersports.

Premium Model:

Crowne Series – Boat owners who only want the best would be excited about the flagship Crowne series from Harris. It has received the NMMA innovation award for its exquisite design and grandeur. The Crowne pontoons are perfect to take the lifestyle from your den to the lake.

Tritoon Model:

V 270 – Individuals who would like to add one of a kind item to their pontoon collection will yearn for the V270 pontoon from Harris. The 27-foot pontoon has an unorthodox center console and an exterior made from fiberglass on a 3-tube platform. It even comes with a shower and a pump-out toilet.

Economy Model:

Cruiser Series – The Cruiser Series is entry-level offering from Harris Boats that provides maximum utility at an economical price. The pontoons have a sleek and modern design and all high-end features in a compact package. They are available in 18 to 24-foot lengths and with different floorplans and engine options.

Fishing Model:

Cruiser FC/FS – The FC and FS floorplan variants of the Cruiser pontoons are designed for fishing expeditions. The FC variants come in 18 to 22-foot lengths and have two fishing seats, a tackle station and a livewell at the stern. The Cruiser 200 FS model with four fishing seats is a great choice for families who go fishing together.

Other Models:

Grand Mariner Series – The Grand Mariner Series pontoons can become whatever you want them to be. With over three dozen floorplans to choose from, these boats can be used for watersports, lounging, cruising, or parties. They can be equipped with everything from galleys and lounges to ski tows depending on the buyer’s requirements.

Solstice Series – The Solstice Series is perfect for gettogether with family and friends. These pontoons combine the best comfort and luxurious features in a spacious package for large gatherings. Additional performance packages impart the required punch for a thrilling afternoon.

About:

A multiple award-winning company based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, manufacturing pontoon boats for over six decades.

From the Manufacturer’s Literature:

Harris has never settled for good enough. For more than 60 years, we've set the standard for what a pontoon should be. Premium materials, sophisticated design, unmatched safety and superior performance make Harris one of the most high-end and sought-after pontoon brands on the water. With each passing year, we take great pride in finding new ways to improve, implementing the most advanced features and technology so that you're always guaranteed to own the most innovative pontoon out there.

Optional Accessories:

Harris pontoons can be installed with optional accessories including bimini upgrades including LED lighted bimini, electric power top bimini, double bimini, full enclosures, powered sport arch, rough water packages, performance and sports packages, saltwater package, lifting strakes, hydraulic and power steering, LED lighted cupholders, rope lighting, underwater lights, ladder lights, swim platform extension, boarding ladder, curtained changing room, cooler, fire extinguisher, refrigerators, swim seat, aerated livewell, fishing seats, rod storage locker, fishfinder, depthsounder, GPS, chartplotter, stereo and speaker upgrades and furniture upgrades like tables, cupholders, storage doors and footrests.

Current Brochure: https://www.harrisboats.com/brochures/

The Best Pontoon Boat Brands –  An Indepth Review

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People on a pontoon boat

Introduction

When deciding the best pontoon boat brand to settle for as a buyer, several factors have to be considered. Pontoon boat brands available to boat lovers have gone beyond the regular old-fashioned, slow-moving item floating on the sea. Modern versions of the best pontoon boat brands are not only elegant when it comes to looks, comfort, and style have been introduced, thereby giving you an experience close to that of a yacht.

The pontoon boat market has witnessed a surge in brands, styles, makers, and products far from what was obtainable in the past. Makers have developed the best pontoon boat brands by modifying speed, utility, flexibility, and design to meet boat lovers’ needs. This article will take you through the best pontoon boat brands available for boat lovers.

Why Pontoon Boats?

Pontoon boat with a pirates flag

Just before we get into giving you insights on the best pontoon boat brands, you might be wondering why pontoon boats? Below we will explain why a pontoon boat is just what you need.

Comfort plus luxury

Pontoon boats offer comfort and luxury at the same time, the new brands come with a well-built structure that is spacious for a couch, and an average of ten people can ride with you. The stylish build makes it perfect for a mini barbecue get-together with family. Pontoon boats can be switched to fast or stable rides, which gives you the luxury of enjoying wonderful weather with your family, which is comfort plus luxury.

Perfect for fishing or skiing

Unlike traditional fishing boats and skiing boats, where you may not be able to invite as many people as you want, the best pontoon boat brands give a better fishing and skiing experience. When fishing with a pontoon boat, stability is achieved, preventing fish-spooking. Not only this, there is an opportunity to try out fishing at different spots until a perfect spot is achieved.

Pontoon boats are the best when fishing under harsh weather conditions such as cold. The availability of shades and inner heaters give a perfect shield against harsh weather.

Best for Family Cruise

A family cruise on a traditional boat does not give the most pleasant experience, especially for families with kids. Pontoon boats give the kids ample space to play around the couch and table, which makes the cruise exciting for them. Kids can also get to invite a few friends for the cruise, and this experience will surely be one of the most exciting ones for the family.

Safe and easy to maintain

The best pontoon boat brands are produced using high-quality aluminum, which will help prevent damage to the hull, and if damaged, it’s easy and less expensive to fix; pontoon boats also come with fenced rails which guide the kids from going outside the play zone. Pontoon boats come with a strongly built structure, making them easy to drive.

pontoon boat cruising

The Best Pontoon Boat Brands

1. Premier 310 Escalante

One of the best pontoon boat brands in the Premier 310 Escalante is made by Premier marine, a United States-based company founded in 1992. This pontoon boat is not only stylish but built compactly with a touch of luxury which makes it one of the best pontoon boats available for boat lovers.

Features of Premier 310 Escalante

  • It has a twenty-three-passenger seat capacity.
  • It comes with two deckings.
  • Built with soft and smooth leather touch.
  • Presence of refrigerated cup holders.
  • In-built USB port in-between seats.
  • Compact audio player with woofers.
  • It has a 12v power outlet and a wireless mobile device charger.
  • Has a speed above 50mph.

Pros

  • Built for comfort and luxury.
  • Large capacity.
  • High-speed limit.
  • The availability of in-built speakers and woofers makes it convenient for mini parties.

Cons

  • It is expensive.
  • The soft leather seats are prone to tear.
  • Has to be maintained regularly.

2. Manitou 25 Legacy SL

Manitou 25 Legacy SL is also one of the best pontoon boat brands in Lansing, MI. This pontoon boat is all about luxury and top-notch creativity, and if that is what you are looking for as a boat lover, you are at the right place. Manitou 25 Legacy SL was made by Manitou, a US-based company founded in 1985.

Features of Manitou 25 Legacy SL

  • Seats are adjustable to different positions.
  • In-built stereo.
  • Multiple glass holders are made with stainless steel.
  • It comes with a dinette table.
  • Stainless-steel cleats.
  • Pivots that are hands-free.
  • It comes with a stepping stool.
  • In-built USB port, 12V power outlet, and a Bluetooth stereo.
  • It has an in-built changing room.

Pros

  • It comes with a lot of useful gadgets.
  • It has a speed of 48mph.
  • It is convenient and luxurious.
  • It is safe and secure.
  • It is durable and compact.

Cons

  • It is expensive.

3. Princecraft Vectra 21 RL

If you are looking for a pontoon boat brand that embodies efficiency, simplicity, and prudence, then Princecraft Vectra 21 RL is the best pontoon boat brand. This pontoon boat brand is good for family lounging; no wonder it is called a rear lounger (RL). It is made by Princecraft, a company based in Quebec, Canada.

Features of Princecraft Vectra 21 RL

  • The backrest can be adjusted two-way.
  • It is available in three colors.
  • Comes with an outboard motor.
  • Large sundeck included.
  • It has a boarding ramp made of stainless steel.
  • Can speed up to 36mph.

Pros

  • Built for Convenience and economical in style.
  • Good for a family cruise.
  • Built for good capacity.
  • Good for sailing.

Cons

  • It is expensive.
  • The upholstery is prone to tears.

4. M3 CRS SYLVAN

Made by Sylvan Marine, an Indiana-based company founded in 1948, M3 CRS Sylvan remains one of the best pontoon boat brands available.

Features of M3 CRS Sylvan

  • It has in-built stereo speakers.
  • USB charging ports for your mobile devices.
  • Comfortable upholstery.

Pros

  • It is good for family sailing.
  • Has a good capacity for friends and family.
  • Good speed limit.

Cons

  • It is not built for rough water.
  • It is expensive.

5. Lowe SS 210 CL

Lowe as 210 CL is one of the best pontoon boat brands made by Lowe boats, a Lebanon-based company founded in 1971. This pontoon boat is built for comfort and luxury. The CL (Conversion lounge) feature shows it is built for luxury.

Features of Lowe as 210 CL

  • In-built conversion lounge.
  • Water-powered.
  • It comes with a power outlet of 12V.
  • In-built USB connection port.
  • It comes with underneath seats.
  • Stepping stool for boarding safety.
  • In-built glass holders and a cocktail table.
  • It has rails made of stainless steel.

Pros

  • Safe and secure
  • Fast with a speed of 37mph.
  • Built with style and luxury.
  • Convenient for hosting feasts.

Cons

  • It is expensive.

6. Bennington 30QX

The Bennington 30QX is one of the best pontoon boat brands available for boat lovers. This pontoon boat is produced by Bennington Marine, founded in 1997, and based in the United States.

Features of Bennington 30QX

  • It comes with the option of a single or double engine.
  • It has a speed of over 60mph.
  • Lots of color combinations.
  • It comes with an item of pillow-top furniture.
  • It has fastback pods.

Pros

  • It is fast, convenient, and relaxing.
  • It is customizable and affordable.

Cons

  • It does not come with an in-built gadget except customized.

7. Crestliner 240 Rally DX

Crestliner 240 Rally DX is one of the best pontoon boat brands for comfortable skiing and cruising when relaxing with family and friends.

Features of Crestliner 240 Rally DX

  • It comes with back-leaning chairs.
  • Table-top and holders for a container.
  • Compatible with Bluetooth.
  • Comes with a stereo.

Pros

  • It is convenient and Durable.
  • It can be customized to your taste
  • Best for skiing and cruising.
  • Nice for playing music using your phone’s Bluetooth connection.

Cons

  • It is not built for speed

8. Bennington 24 R Bowrider Swingback

Bennington 24 R Bowrider is one of the best pontoon boat brands made by one of the biggest makers of pontoon boats, a United States-based company Bennington Marine founded in 1997. The Bennington’s 24 R Bowrider is fenced with aluminum and safe when kids are on board.

Features of Bennington 24 R Bowrider Swingback

  • It has a cockpit and aluminum fencing.
  • It has in-built underneath space.
  • Built for varieties of seating positions.
  • It comes with a backrest. 

Pros

  • It is convenient and stylish.
  • Safe and secure for kids on board.
  • Multiple seating styles
  • It is spacious.
  • It gives the boat captain a transparent view.

Cons

  • Not built for speed.

9. SunChaser Geneva 22 LR PSB

SunChaser Geneva 22 LR PSB is also one of the best pontoon boat brands made by SunChaser, an Indiana-based company. This pontoon boat is the best choice family boat lovers will find exciting.

Features Of SunChaser Geneva 22 LR PSB

  • It comes with two lounges at the bow and a room for relaxing.
  • Stool step made with aluminum.
  • It comes with a large deck.
  • Four deck cleats.
  • It has room for changing.
  • It comes with a flexible backrest.
  • Speed of over 28mph.

Pros

  • It is well equipped, convenient, and luxurious.
  • It is affordable and secure.
  • It is excellent for cruising and relaxing.

Cons

  • It is not built for speed.

10. Harris Crowne SL 270

The Harris Crowne SL 270 is one of the best pontoon boat brands made by Harris boats’ award-winning US-based company. Harris boats were founded in 1956, which tells us the company has a reputation. Harris Crowne SL 270 is built for boat lovers with great tastes and class.

Features of Harris Crowne SL 270

  • It has adjustable seating for various positions.
  • In-built stepping stool.
  • It comes with a classy in-built kitchen.

Pros

  • It is compact and convenient.
  • It is safe and secure.
  • It is good for family feasts and lounging.

Cons

  • It is not cheap.

Final thoughts

In creating the best experience and spending quality, exciting time with family and friends, pontoon boats can come in handy to help you create these experiences. Nevertheless, with the myriads of brands and makers of pontoon boats finding the best pontoon boat brands that work for your family’s needs requires careful consideration. Follow through with the features and make the right choice.

18ft Pontoon Boats

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pontoon boat anchored

Introduction

The 18ft pontoon boats are the ideal size of boats for first-time buyers and enthusiasts of pontoon boats. The boats do not offer only the same quality as the larger pontoon boats, but the boat’s size comes without the larger boats’ troubles. The 18ft pontoon boats are cheaper, more portable, and versatile for all sorts of water; this makes them suitable for learners.

The boats come in different designs and features that collectively offer an angler or family the best experience. A few also run on solar energy, which environmentalist highly acknowledges to offer a green and carbon-free environment suitable for the ecosystem.

Below is a list of a few of the 18ft pontoon boats in the market one can choose from.

Why 18ft Pontoon Boats ?

Pontoon boat next to the dock

 The 18ft pontoon boat does not just stand out because of its size, but the boat has proven to be the ideal size to sail on any water due to its low weight. What’s more, an extra advantage of these sizes of boats is that they mostly don’t get to fall under the various restrictions put up by local authorities against sailing on several water bodies. This makes them the best option to sail on restricted waters without causing a fuss.

Some of the reasons to choose 18ft pontoon boats are:

It is possible to sail on lakes with limits

Local authorities sometimes impose restrictions to protect the waterways. The physical constraints include the constant fluctuation in water depth that is caused by rain or a lack thereof. For these conditions, 18ft pontoon boats are the most ideal.

It is ideal for shallow waters

Most ponds have extremely shallow waters, which makes it harder for heavy or large boats to sail. Pontoon boats of 20 feet overall and more will not be suitable for these waters. Therefore, it is crucial to go for the 18ft pontoon boats with lesser weight.

One can overcome horsepower restrictions

Most lakesides have horsepower restraints due to their volume or even environmental constraints. However, the use of a lower horsepower engine does not affect the performance of small pontoon boats. Due to their lightweight, the boats move well regardless.

It is perfect for a first-time purchase

These  boat types can be a significant purchase when considering repair costs, storehouse, and further aspects. If one doesn’t want to buy a full-size pontoon, 18 feet pontoon boats are more cheap selections for new buyers lowering overall expenses.

It is easy to maneuver

This boat size is the best option for anyone intimidated by the stress and money involved in putting a boat on the water. Eighteen feet boats are easy to handle, trailer and dock.

It is easy to store in a garage

The small size of 18ft pontoon boats makes them easy to store in a garage, unlike the bigger boats. The boats fit perfectly in a garage and inside any basic garage length; this provides space for other vehicles as well. It is also easy to maneuver an 18ft pontoon into one’s garage. One doesn’t have to worry about how hard it’ll be to make a turn from the street to the driveway.

It solves the issue of environmental concerns

Most 18ft pontoons are so small that the boats don’t need a diesel engine. In fact, because of their size and weight, it is not advisable to go for anything greater than 75 horsepower. A horsepower greater than this will cause damage to the boat. This makes 18ft boats a little more eco-friendly. Some waterways may also require the usage of an electric motor, which gives one an objective.

It is quite stable

18-foot pontoons can have the same draft as an aluminum canoe or fishing boat. However, the pontoon has some additional benefits. Instead of a constant rocking motion, the flat deck keeps the sailor and any equipment stable. In addition, unlike a V-hull, it reduces the wakes that scare fish away.

The Best 18ft Pontoon Boats

Below is a list of the best small model pontoon boats in the market suitable for shallow waters, ponds, and lakes. While these boats are small, they can carry a decent number of people onboard and comprise standard quality suitable for every angler or family to enjoy every trip on the water.

Some of the best 18ft Pontoon Boats include:

Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 XL

The Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 DLX is an ideal boat for fishing and other water activities. It has two fishing chairs mounted on it that are foldable. This gives a sailor and boarders space if there is the need to do something else, like playing games.

The Sun Tracker pontoon boat also has an L-shaped lounge. The lounge comes in quite handy as one can store different things underneath. This 18-footer boat is simple yet classic; it’s worth checking out.

Features

  • Has an L-shaped lounge.
  • Has a Bluetooth stereo system.
  • Measures 16 inches long and 8 inches in width.
  • Has dual bow fishing chairs.
  • Measures 18.5 feet overall.

Pros

  • Ideal for fishing.
  • Has an aerated live well.
  • Has enough space for storage.
  • It can carry seven people.

Cons

  • Not suitable for harsh weather conditions.

Lowe Ultra 162 Fish N Cruise

The Lowe Ultra 162 Fish N Cruise is also a contender in this category and performs admirably. Lowe Boats have come a long way in selling the boat business, just like Sun Tracker with over 50 years of experience. One of the special small boats of Lowe falls under the Ultra series. The boat offers several value packages that make it stand out even among the bigger pontoon boats.

The Ultra 162 Fish N Cruise is cheap regardless of its various features like live well, fishing pole holders, and comfortable seating and layout appearance. This model stands out for a small boat even compared to larger boats.

Features

  • Measures 17.10 feet overall.
  • Mas folding bow fishing seats.
  • Has a stern 4-step ladder.
  • Has two bow fishing seats.
  • Weighs 1600 pounds.

Pros

  • Has many storage compartments.
  • The seats are very comfortable.
  • It can carry a lot of passengers.
  • Accepts 50 horsepower motors.

Cons

  • The fishing pole holder is not that strong.

Princecraft BrioE 17

All thanks to the Torqeedo Cruise 2.0 2,000 watts electric outboard that powers the boat, Princecraft BrioE 17 runs at a decent speed that doesn’t damage the ecosystem in any way. This makes it the ideal boat for anyone that frequents a lake or pond that doesn’t allow gasoline motors. Or an environmentalist that wants to have the lowest carbon footprint around.

The price is slightly over $20,000 when one includes the price of the pair of 24-volt solar panels. The power system is what makes the boat unique; regardless, it has standard features that every pontoon boat has.

Features

  • Runs on a Torqeedo Cruise 2.0 2000 watt electric outboard.
  • Measures 17.7 feet overall.
  • The boat weighs 1365 pounds.
  • Has a beam of 2.5m.

Pros

  • Eco-friendly.
  • Has ample storage.
  • It is really quiet.

Cons

  • Not fast like the gas-powered boats.
  • It can only carry a few passengers.

Bennington S18 L-Bench

The Bennington S18 L-Bench pontoon is one of the best cruiser boats on the market. The design is very nice, and it guarantees to give couples an experience never to forget. The boat has an L-bench with a sun pad and a large amount of storage underneath.

This boat is unique because buyers can select the same model in 13 different configurations, which the manufacturer can customize to one’s taste and preferences. It isn’t that expensive, and it’s worth every penny.

Features

  • Has a sun pad with storage at the rear.
  • Has an 8 inches narrow beam.
  • Has an L-bench midship.
  • Measures 18 feet and 4.5 inches overall.

Pros

  • Offers great value for money.
  • Has a lot of storage space.
  • Can be customized during purchase.

Cons

  • The engine is loud at high speed.

Sunchaser Vista 16 LR

The 16 LR is a decent boat from the Sunchaser company. It comes with a 40 horsepower outboard, and one can choose a lower one to cut down the cost further. The boat has Sea Weave carpeting and a Bimini top; six passengers can fully enjoy the boat’s features.

The basic model arrangement of the boat is not too extra, but it provides the comfort necessary. Two sofas face each other in the bow, while a third port side sofa sits in the stern, across from an-arm resting chair. It also comes with a 6-year warranty covering several parts of the boat.

Features

  • Measures 17 feet.
  • Has a dry weight of 1275 pounds.
  • Its fuel capacity is 21 gallons.
  • It can carry six passengers max.

Pros

  • It is not expensive.
  • It is customizable.
  • The captain’s seat is very comfortable.
  • It has a canopy.

Cons

  • The engine is loud at high speed.

Cypress Cay C 171 Cruise

The C 171 Cruise is one of the C series of Cypress Cay models. The boat is the perfect competitor to the large boats on the water as it is loaded with various conceivable options and accessories, unlike some larger boats. The price is within the $18,000 mark, and it includes a 50 horse Mercury FourStroke on the transom. One must agree that’s cheap.

The C 171 Cruise also offers a seating arrangement that’s a bit different from the norm, with a forward-facing couch, helm and passenger’s pedestal seats and a pair of forwarding loungers. The seating arrangement allows it to carry eight passengers at the same time regardless of its size. It’s a go-getter.

Features

  • Measures 17 feet overall.
  • Has a captain chair that revolves.
  • It is compatible with a 50 horsepower motor.
  • It comes with a warranty.

Pros

  • It is customizable.
  • Very cheap
  • It can fit a lot of people.
  • Has a good seating arrangement.

Cons

  • A lot of people complain that the eight-passenger capacity is hype.
  • The motor is noisy.

Harris LX 160 Cruise

The Harris boat company is one of the companies to have bagged several awards over the past decades, and one of its boats that made it possible is the Harris LX 160 Cruise. Even though the boat doesn’t look like much compared to the modern day’s quality, it remains sturdy on the water as always.

Despite the LX160’s small size, this pontoon can comfortably accommodate up to 8 people, making it one of the most spacious vessels. It also has several decent features, and the boat is quite cheap.

Features

  • Measures approximately 18 feet overall.
  • Has an L-bench.
  • Has a beam of 8 feet.
  • Has a foldable ladder.

Pros

  • It can carry a decent number of people.
  • It is not expensive
  • Accepts 50 horsepower.

Cons

  • The 8 person capacity is not entirely true.
  • The motor is noisy at high speed.

Final Thoughts

The 18ft pontoon boats have been of great help to curb the several problems that anglers face, ranging from a depth of water, restrictions, and many others. Thanks to these small sizes, everyone can now enjoy fishing and sailing without fear.

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