Introduction
A Pontoon Boat is a typical pleasure boat that fits into any description. This is because it can be used for fishing, boat skiing, parties and other outdoor activities. Pontoon boats provide a range of models for different users. Finding a good boat at an affordable price is the goal of every boat user, especially beginners. To ensure a good boating experience regardless of the cost, one should opt for the best entry-level pontoon boats.
Entry-level boats are designed to meet the taste and satisfaction of their users at pocket-friendly prices. However, when looking for a good one, certain things must be considered. It is essential because while looking for an affordable Pontoon, the boat must provide basic features despite its affordability.
This article will guide users on the best boating experience using the best entry-level pontoon boats.
How Are Pontoon Boats Different From Other Boats?
Pontoon boats are flatboats that depend on floats to stay afloat in the water. They are usually designed with a catamaran with two hulls or a trimaran with three hulls. The ones with three hulls are called tri-toons.
Because of their build, they are used for pleasure rides on rivers and lakes and along the shores of the ocean. The pontoon boats have unique accessories like an inflatable slide, shades, Bimini tops, diving boards etc. In some countries they can also be used as small ferries, especially to cross lakes and rivers.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Pontoon Boat
Before buying a pontoon boat, there are some specific features a user should look out for. There are;
The engines
The presence of two different types of engines, ‘the twin toons‘ and the ‘tri-toon,’ allows a user to choose the kind of boat he wants. However, the former (Bi-toon boats) make use of less power. This usage depends on the load and speed of the boat. Engines outboard with 50 or 60 HP can push up to 18 to 20 bi-toons at 15 or 16 mph.
Seating arrangement
The pontoon boats have diverse seating arrangements in different brands. In light of this, a user who wants to purchase a boat should check the brand or model that can accommodate the number of potential boarders. These boats also have different luxury packages. It ranges from basic to super luxury packages. They also have models that can allow a wheelchair to come in. Thus, allowing passengers on wheelchairs to enjoy a pleasurable boating experience.
Boarding pass
Pontoon boats are built for the convenience of their passengers. These boats’ has features that give enough room for passengers to come on board regardless of age or disability. Most pontoon models come with three gates; port side, stern and bow. Some gates are wide enough to allow any wheelchair to go through it.
Ladder
Pontoon boats come with a re-boarding ladder that goes way below the waterline. These ladders are pretty durable and last longer due to their heavy-duty elements. The ladders are also built-in in different varieties. Some pontoon boats come with permanent ladders while others with removable ladders. In the case of safety, the permanent ladder is the most recommended variety. This is because they don’t occupy storage space, and it is readily available in times of emergency.
Bimini Tops
A Bimini top is always present in any pontoon model. It is either an option or part of the standard. It is always advisable to select the pontoon model with the most considerable size of Bimini tops. The reason is to keep cool during sunny weather. There are also different ways to install the Bimini top –some require fewer efforts while others are complicated and require professional help.
The Best Entry-Level Pontoon Boat Models
A beginner who is completely new to boating may face the dilemma of the type of boat to go for. In a bid to solve this problem, users should opt for a basic pontoon model. Such a model fits into all potential uses, extending from fishing to cruising. Thus, it is not enough for the pontoon to have good fishing features, but to also have strong engines. Having good engines is an important factor to consider, especially when the boat will be used for water sports. Additionally, ensuring the pontoon has quality furniture is a plus for comfy cruising.
Some of the best entry-level pontoon boats are;
Lexington 325
The Lexington pontoon has a beautiful layout for relaxing and enough space to accommodate up to 14 people. This space ranges from the chaise lounge to the midship corner lounge and stern sun lounger. Other details like the vinyl floor, helm seat flip-up bolster, and the backlit panel adds to the boat’s unique features.
Specifications
Person Capacity: 14
Length overall: 26’ 4”
Beam: 8’ 6”
Max HP: 140hp
Price: $28,644
Pros
- The horsepower is strong enough to withstand certain watersports.
- It can accommodate a good number of passengers.
Cons
- Due to its size, it cannot withstand severe weather.
- Not suitable for water bodies other than freshwater.
Lowe Ultra Cruise 180
The Lowe’s Ultra Cruise 180 mode is marked with comfort and quality. It is built with excellent seating and a storage room. The Boca Raton marine carpet used in the boat gives one’s feet a smooth feel. Also, the aft bench has additional storage trays and cupholders. At the same time, the helm made of fibreglass adds a mark of comfort to the raised footwell.
Specifications
Length overall: 19’ 6”/ 5.94m
Beam: 8’
Max Passengers: 9
Max HP range: 75hp
Price: $22,949
Pros
- Has additional storage.
- Very affordable.
Cons
- It does not have a durable engine.
Princecraft Brio e 15 Pontoon boat
The Princecraft BrioE 15 is among the most affordable and environment-friendly pontoon boats. This model is powered by an electric motor called the Torqeedo. The Torqeedo Cruise 2.0R runs in a 5-hp range. The budget for this boat allows the user to upgrade to Cruise 4.0R, which runs in an 8-hp range.
Although the boat is relatively small, it still has a sleek interior with an L-lounge and dinette table. The boat comes with a Bimini top, cup holders, a Jensen stereo and classy interior lighting.
Specifications
Length overall: 15’1/ 4.6m
Max Passengers: 4
Beam: 7’6
Weight: 496kg
Engine: Torqeedo Cruise 2.0R/4.0R
Price: $13,028
Pros
- One of the cheapest models.
- Makes use of green energy.
Cons
- The maximum number of passengers is limited.
- The power does not last as much as regular engines.
Sunchaser Vista 16 LR
The LR model is built with a comfy and simple layout with a single port side sofa and two more facing each other in the bow. This model comes with a Bimini top and a sea weave flooring. It rides on top of a 23 inches tube construction from gauge aluminium. Another top feature of this boat is that it comes with a warranty. The warranty covers the structure and hull for life and a six-year coverage on electronics, carpets, components etc.
Specifications
Length overall: 17’0″
Max Passengers: 6
Beam: 96’0″
Price: $23,563
Max HP: 40
Pros
- Has enough sofas for a boat its size.
- Comes with a warranty.
- Very affordable.
Cons
- Cannot withstand severe weather conditions.
- Not suitable for all waterbody types, just freshwater.
- The engine is not durable.
- Cannot withstand rough terrain.
Bayliner Element 18
The Element 18 is the perfect boat for fishing, enjoying water sports, or cruising. It has a spacious layout with 3 different rooms or zones for social interaction. It is big enough to accommodate up to 9 persons on board. Regardless of its height, it is pretty easy to manoeuvre. The M-Hull design helps to give the boat stability. This model will give anyone out in the water an enjoyable experience.
Specifications
Length overall: 18’ 2”
Beam: 7’ 5”
Max Passengers: 9
Max HP: 115hp
Price: $22,500
Pros
- It has a spacious layout.
- Pretty affordable and well-balanced.
- Accommodates quite a lot of passengers for its size.
- The engine can withstand rough terrains.
- It can be used for different outdoor activities.
Cons
- Cannot withstand bad weather conditions.
- Not suitable for saltwater.
Hurricane Sundeck Sport 188 OB
The Sundeck Sport 188 is built with features that give riders a new level of fun. It is packed with amenities like an entertainment centre, manual pump and a sink. It also has an Aux stereo with two speakers which are essential for entertainment.
Specifications
Length overall: 18’ 10”
Beam: 8’ 5”
Max Passengers: 10
Max HP: 200hp
Price: $19,999
Pros
- Quite affordable.
- Built with several amenities.
- The engine can withstand rough terrains.
- Accommodates as many as 10 passengers.
Cons
- Not adequate for bad weather conditions.
Sea-Doo Switch Compact Pontoon Boat
This pontoon boat is quite different from the traditional boats. For instance, it does not come with outboard or a wheel and Instead of an outboard, it has a Rotax 1630 Ace engine with a unique steering system. Like other Sea-Doo series, it has an intelligent brake, reverses, and cruise control.
The boat is built with polypropylene; the regular material used in Sea Doo’s boats. Because of its build, the boat can easily be rearranged and customized to personal taste. Chairs and cupholders can easily be moved by pulling the lever and placing the item where it needs to be placed. The massive pre-orders of the model, even a 2022 model, is a clear indication that the boat is a flagship of the pontoon boats.
Specifications
Length overall: 13′
Beam: 7’10”
Max HP: 100
Price: $17, 999
Pros
- It is affordable.
- The engine is durable.
- It can be rearranged to personal taste.
Cons
- Lacks an outboard.
Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 Fishing Pontoon
One of the outstanding feats for the Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 is that it comes with a “10+Life” warranty. It also has a ten-year bow to the stern warranty on materials installed by the factory, including the artistry. The boat model comes with a limited lifetime deck and structural warranty.
The boat has front and rear boarding, swimming platforms and a folding boarding ladder. It also has other perks like an aft L-lounge and a helm seat. Due to the improvements made to the 2021 model, the Bass Buggy 16 has M-bracket deck support.
Specifications
Length overall: 18’5
Max Passengers: 7
Max HP: 50
Price: $17,495
Pros
- Easy to purchase.
- It comes with a warranty.
Cons
- The engine is not durable.
Bentley 220 Cruise
With rooms enough to accommodate up to 15 people, a changing room and four speakers, the Bentley 220 cruise is the perfect boat for the water party. It has a fibreglass console, Bluetooth, and an Mp3 adapter for standards. In addition, it has a Sundeck that helps absorb sun rays. The front gate is wide enough for a wheelchair to come through. Other added perks include LED lighting and tow bar etc.
Specifications
Length overall: 22’
Beam: 8’ 6”
Max Passengers: 15
Max HP: 115hp
Price: $28,998
Pros
- Accommodates up to 15 passengers.
- The engine is durable.
- Has enough room for privacy.
Cons
- Cannot withstand harsh weather conditions.
Veranda Relax Series VR22RC
The model is built for relaxation, hence the name. One of its unique feats is the interlocking deck system. The Ski and tow bar and the vertex table are other options that complement this model. It also has LED lighting. This model is affordable and guaranteed to give boaters the boating experience of a lifetime.
Specifications
Length overall: 22’ 8”
Beam: 8’ 6”
Max Passengers: 11
Max HP: 115hp
Price: $25,900
Pros
- It has a comfortable build.
- The engines are durable.
- It is affordable.
Cons
- It cannot withstand bad weather conditions.
Final Thoughts
Pontoon boats provide varieties of models to meet different needs. Their entry-level models for low-budget users or beginners are still designed with class and meet customers’ convenience. The best entry-level pontoon boats are a guarantee to give outdoor enthusiasts the best boating experience.
