Pontoon Boats

Party Pontoon Boats

Pontoon boats are party boats. When you own a pontoon boat you can fit a large number of people, you have a stable platform, and you have endless possibilities on fun accessories including a second deck, a BBQ grill, a bar, a great sound system, and anything else that amounts to a great party.

Party Pontoon Boat

This page is dedicated to the latest and the greatest pontoon boats that are made to party.  In addition, we also feature new reviews of fun accessories that help you create your pontoon boat into a party boat.  Some fun accessories that can help you to transform your party pontoon boat include a wet bar, a BBQ grill, an upper deck, special lighting systems, and a bumping speaker system.

Pontoon Slides

by

Pontoon boat slides can be great fun for your whole family. With kids on board, this can indeed be the best pontoon boat accessory you can invest your money in. With the pontoon boat slides, you can stay cool in the scorching summer. By investing in the best slides, you can have safe fun. In this article, we will see some of the best options of pontoon slides for your pontoon boat.

Types of Pontoon Boat Slides

Pontoon boat slides are mainly of two types: fixed ones and inflatable ones. The fixed water slides are a main attraction of double deckers, where the upper deck features the slide usually made from durable fiberglass. Thereby, they have the advantage of offering much more height for your fun sliding. They come pre-installed during the construction phase of the pontoon boat. As handled professionally, they are a much safer option if handled within weight restrictions and safety guidelines. They also offer a great appealing look to your pontoon boat. The double deckers can cost you more, but they can double your fun. Now, if your pontoon boat doesn’t have an upper deck, then you can still have it installed by companies that offer such services. J’s Upper Decks is a famous manufacturer of upper platform decks for pontoon boats if you intend to add an upper deck to your pontoon boat. They offer pontoon slide kits made of fiberglass.

Inflatable pontoon slides on the other hand are more common and cheap means of having the fun associated with water slides on a pontoon boat. You can have them attached to your pontoon boat and have the mini waterpark kind of experience. They can be easily set up and when not in use, they can be deflated and stored. You need to look for safer options, built from durable materials and also follow the recommended weight restrictions. In this article, we will be dealing mainly with this category of pontoon slides.

What to look for when buying inflatable pontoon boat slides?

Before investing your money on any pontoon boat slide, you need to look into some of the factors so that you can have safe fun.

Material

Pontoon slides made from quality materials can add both safety and durability. In most cases, inflatable pontoon boat slides are made from durable, commercial grade polyester reinforced PVC. PVC is waterproof and with UV resistant coating, they can also withstand long hours of sun.

Easy Inflation and Deflation

You need to look for options which are easy to inflate/ deflate as it can reduce the amount of effort needed to set up the inflatable pontoon slide. In most cases, high pressure pumps will be included in the slide kit which can make way for easy inflation or deflation. These high pressure pumps can easily run off the pontoon battery without drawing much power.

Safety

Slides are used by almost all. Be it adults or children, they are everyone’s favorite. Safety should be give due importance. The attachment strap will securely hold the pontoon slide onto your pontoon boat. The molded handles and footsteps can be a good safety feature to look for as they make it easy to board the slide with convenience. By following proper safety protocols, you can have fun without losing grip or falling off.

Weight Capacity

Following the recommended weight capacity is of great importance as it can lead to safe fun. Overloading your pontoon slide can be dangerous and can lead to hazards like falling off. It may puncture the slide and may cause other irreversible damages, hampering the durability of your pontoon slide or making it totally useless. In most cases, for an inflatable pontoon slide, the weight capacity will be 200 lbs. So a single slider can have fun at a time. Everyone can have fun by taking turns.

Storage

The inflatable pontoon slide should also be compact to store when deflated.

Rave Sports Pontoon Slide

Pontoon-Slides-Rave Sports Dock Slide

The inflatable pontoon slide is made from commercial grade PVC vinyl reinforced material which can offer long lasting fun in the water. The pontoon slide is overall 10 feet in length, featuring a 9 foot long sliding surface. A required water depth of 5 foot is recommended. They feature inflated side air chambers. There are four inset vinyl molded footsteps and two vinyl assist handles molded on the top. It can fit most pontoon boats. The included straps can be used to attach it to the pontoon boat sides (easy set up instructions are included). With the included 12V high pressure inflator/ deflator it is easier to inflate the slide. You can inflate the slide in just 5 minutes and it deflates and rolls up so small in size like a sleeping bag so that you can store it with ease even under your seat. The maximum weight capacity of the inflatable pontoon slide is 200 lbs. The product has a weight of about 30 lbs. The inflated dimensions are: 10′ x 25″ x 68″. The pontoon slide is priced around $600.

SportStuff Spillway Pontoon Slide

SportStuff Spillway Pontoon Slide

SportStuff Spillway Pontoon Slide is another great option for having years of fun in the water and features an 8 feet long sliding surface. It is smaller compared to the Rave Sports Pontoon Slide. Made from UV treated 1000 denier polyester reinforced PVC material, the seams are hot air overlap welded and hence it is built to last longer. With the help of the raised inflatable safety chambers on both sides, the riders are kept centered with safety. While, the four inset molded steps and two molded handles on the top makes it easy to climb onto the slide. It can fit most pontoon boats. The Hulkey Roberts valve allows easy inflation of the inflatable pontoon slide. Hence you can set up and attach it to your pontoon boat sides within a few minutes. However, inflation pump is not included. The inflatable slide has a maximum weight capacity of 200 lbs. The inflated size of the pontoon slide is 10.5’ x 33in x 54in. The price is around $600.

WOW Sports Pontoon Waterfall Slide

WOW Sports Pontoon Waterfall Slide

A relatively cheaper option is the WOW Sports Pontoon Waterfall Slide with price around $400. It features an 8 foot long sliding surface. Made from heavy duty Premium Layered polyester reinforced PVC, the inflatable pontoon slide is built to last. The adjustable straps will let the slide fit most pontoon boats. It also features inflatable deluxe safety rails. The molded steps and two molded handles make it easy to board the slide. You can inflate and attach the slide to your pontoon boat within minutes without any hassle. You can also ddeflate the pontoon slide and fold up for EZ Storage. The pontoon slide has a capacity of 200 lbs. i.e., you need to take turns and slide one at a time. The pontoon slide has the inflated dimensions: 10.5ft x 33in x 54in. 1 year WOW warranty is also offered.

WOW Sports Pontoon Zip Slide

WOW Sports Pontoon Zip Slide

With the ability to turn any pontoon into a playground, you can slide into the coolness of the water with the WOW Sports Pontoon Zip Slide. This inflatable pontoon slide is yet another affordable option to have fun. It features an 8 foot long smooth glide sliding surface. You can have heavy duty fun with the Zip slide as it is made with an ultra-heavy duty premium layered reinforced PVC. The pontoon slide features inflatable deluxe safety rails. They feature moulded steps and two molded handles which makes way for easy boarding. With the adjustable straps, the slide can be fit into most pontoon boats. You need to simply inflate the pontoon slide, attach it and have the fun slide! However, inflation pump is not included. Once deflated, you can fold up for EZ storage. The pontoon slide has a weight capacity of 200 lbs. and hence one user is recommended at a time. It has the dimension of 10.5ft x 33in x 54in when inflated. This is a more budget friendly option, priced at around $250. One year warranty is offered.

Aquaglide Freefall Pontoon Slide

Aquaglide Freefall Pontoon Slide

The Aquaglide Freefall Pontoon Slide can be a great accessory for your family’s pontoon adventures. You can turn your pontoon boat into a water playground. A minimum water depth of 8 foot is recommended. The inflatable pontoon slide is made from UV coated, reinforced PVC Duratex material of commercial grade which will provide years of guaranteed service. The 316 stainless anchor rings will remain secure and stable. The molded handles along with the welded footsteps gives a convenient way to easily board the pontoon slide. With the simplistic design, the pontoon slide can be attached over the seating and can fit almost any pontoon boat. With the free 12V turbo pump, the pontoon slide is easy to inflate and deflate. It has a dimension of 10’L x 35″W x 42″H. The weight capacity is 200 lbs. and so you can have fun in turns. The pontoon slide will cost around $600. 1 year limited warranty is offered.

Rave Sports Dock Slide

Rave Sports Dock Slide

As the name suggests, this is a dock slide, mostly used on the dock. However with the adjustment of attachment straps, you can also use them on your pontoon boat. You may need to buy 2 separate attachment straps to serve the purpose. So you can have fun on the boat or on the pontoon boat. The inflatable pontoon slide is made of heavy duty PVC vinyl and comes with a 9 foot long slick sliding surface. The two inflated side chamber will keep the sliders centered. The four inset molded foot steps along with the two molded vinyl assist handles will allow easy and safe boarding. The pontoon slide features quick and easy set up. With the 12 V DC High Pressure Inflator/Deflator, it is convenient to inflate and deflate the pontoon slide. Repair kit is also included. A minimum water depth of 4 foot is recommended. The inflated dimension of the slide is 9′ x 34″ x 68″. It weighs around 30 lbs. 200 lbs. is the maximum weight capacity. 90 days limited warranty is being offered. It will cost you around $500.

Maintenance Tips for Pontoon Boat Slides

As you invest money in any pontoon boat slide, you are looking forward to use it for many longer years to come. You are not looking to replace it summer after summer. The investment should not go in vain. With proper maintenance you can ensure safety and durability of your pontoon boat slides. Some of the maintenance tips for achieving the best use of pontoon boat slides, both in case of inflatable and fixed counterparts are mentioned below:

Fixed Pontoon Slide

The fixed slides are already well built with durable materials. They require less maintenance. However proper maintenance and good care can make you spend less on repair and related costs.

  • Make sure that the surface is cleaned regularly.
  • Periodically check for scratches and other damages. If you notice any damage or loosened parts, contact the service provider for getting the necessary altercations done.
  • During winters when you plan to keep it away, you can keep it brand new by using a UV protector spray.

Inflatable Pontoon Slide

Inflatable pontoon slides can also be easily taken care for so as to extend their term of use.

  • Deflate the pontoon slide when not in use. Make sure that no air remains in the chambers.
  • Dry the pontoon slide fully before you fold the slide. Or else, there is chance for mold and mildew formation.
  • You need to fold the pontoon slide and store it in a dry place, away from the sun. Though most pontoon slides are UV resistant, you need not have to over expose the stuff. It is better to store the pontoon slide in a dark, dry place when not in use.
  • Check the pontoon slide periodically for any holes or damages and use repair kit if needed.
  • During winter when you plan to keep your summer toys away, you need to wash the material with soap solution. Also, using a UV protector spray can keep the surface new.

Lake Floats For Adults Heavy Duty

by

A dog with a sunglasses on a pontoon boat

Introduction

Heavy-duty lake floats are gradually becoming popular. This is because of several years of dedication to giving clients and customers the best value for their money. Lake floats features such as detachable canopies, recessed cup holders, and inflatable pillows are reasons why many waterways explorers opt for them.

Lake floats ensure that the users have fun on the water yet are within the limits of safety because of the buoyancy of these floats. Some essential factors to consider before buying a lake float include; the lake rules, safety, budget, and how to transport the lake float. These boat types also come with coolers and a swim platform for easy access to the raft.

This guide will review some of the best lake floats for adult heavy duty.

Things To Consider Before Buying A Lake Float

Lake Rules

Some lakes have specific rules against large lake floats. One need to research the laws of the lake where they plan to use their lake floats.

Safety

Safety should be a priority when buying a lake float. Kids will have to wear life jackets, and water safety rules must be followed.

Budget

Lake Floats’ range in price starts from about $100. They may also run into thousands of dollars depending on the brand and features of the float. Also, one should decide their budget beforehand to determine which float best suits their needs.

Location

There are multi-functional lake floats in their application which means that people can use them on lakes, swimming pools, and some oceans. It is vital to consider if the lake float can be used on just one mentioned water body.

Accessories

One essential accessory for a lake float is a good quality electric pump that will inflate the float. It is also an intelligent decision for the buyer to invest in a good repair kit for any holes.

Transportation

Boat owners should ensure that lake floats can fit the vessel or be stored inside. Anyone operating their craft with an already inflated lake float should ensure that there is a proper rope to keep it from flying off.

TOp 10 Lake Floats For Adults

Heavy-duty lake floats are excellent accessories for young kids, teenagers, or adult family members. Below are some great suggestions for lake floats.

CoolerZ Tropical Breeze

CoolerZ Tropical Breeze is built to provide an excellent relaxation experience for its users. It can fit six adults and comes equipped with six cup holders. The float’s raft has a boarding platform with a unique deck attachment and grabs handles. The raft is more than adequate for those who may want to sunbathe.

The roof of Coolerz is left open so that its users can stay cool while they lounge. It also has an in-built cooler in the armrests to keep drinks cool and easy to reach. The cooler Z also includes an anchor bag that helps make mooring easier.

PROS

  • The cooler Z Tropical Breeze comes with a detachable canopy.
  • There is an in-built cooler for keeping drinks cold and pleasant.
  • It has inflatable pillows.

CONS

  • The canopy breaks too often.

Bestway Tropical Breeze

BestwayTropical Breeze is the perfect lake lounging floater. It can comfortably seat six adults and has a detachable canopy. Owners of the Bestway Tropical Breeze can sit back and submerge their legs in the mesh bottom. It comes with an inset cooler that keeps snacks and drinks in a preserved state.

People can climb onto the raft using an inflated board on the side of the float. The float is built with unique features such as six cup holders and also a pair of wide inflatable pillows attached to the backrests. Bestway Tropical Breeze has interconnected nozzles which makes its inflation very easy.

PROS

  • It has large pillow headrests.
  • The Bestway Tropical Breeze has a detachable canopy.
  • The swim-up platform makes it easy for people to climb into the boat.

CONS

  •  Sunshade does not cover many areas.

Bestway Tropical Breeze 3

The Best Tropical is a more extensive version of the Cooler Z. With an impressive 11 feet that can take eight adults simultaneously, the raft is easy to inflate and deflate, and with plenty of room to relax under the canopy.

Bestway Tropical Breeze 3 has two added lounge areas for people who wish to sunbathe. It also packs six cup holders and attached ropes for easy mooring, anchoring, and towing.

PROS

  • Bestway Tropical Breeze 3 is a preferred choice for many due to its high seating capacity.
  • It comes with six cup holders.
  • The inflating and deflating are very quick and convenient.

CONS

  • The six cup holders may be inadequate, considering that the seating capacity is for eight persons.

Comfy Floats Party Platform

The Comfy Floats Party Platform is the perfect option for those that want to party while on the lake. It has 13 feet in length and can hold up to six people. It comes with extra backrests, and all the backrests are comfortable because of their plush padding.

The shade that is provided by the canopy is removable and retractable. Also, the most prominent feature of the comfy float party platform is its button-activated water mister. However, it does not come with a battery for the activated water mister.

PROS

  • The 13 feet length ensures that there is ample space for every passenger.
  • Canopies are retractable, which ensures easy storage.
  • It has a button-activated water mister.

CONS

  • The water mister does not come with a battery.

Body Glove Catalina Island

Unlike many lake floats, Catalina Island has many features, making it a stand-out performer as far as lake floats go. It has an in-built Bluetooth speaker so that its occupants can enjoy music as they float on the lake. The raft can fit up to six people, and a sundeck-style seating with a reinforced mesh center.

Body Glove Catalina has cup holders which will keep the cups of its occupants secure. Even better, Body Glove Catalina has two built-in coolers to keep snacks cool. The seven independent air chambers help to make inflating and deflating the float easy.

PROS

  • The built-in speaker system produces acceptable sound quality.
  • It comes with built-in coolers.
  • The multiple cup holders are a plus to the features of the float.

CONS

  • The sound produced by the speaker is inadequate.

AirHead Reef Island

AirHead Reef Island is notable for its durability and ability to withstand harsh marine conditions. It can comfortably hold six adults because of its ample space provisions. AirHead Reef Island has three sundecks, and each of them has its backrests. The float colors are brightly colored, which is very aesthetically pleasing.

AirHead Reef Island has six molded cup holders and three in-built coolers. People who purchase the Airhead Reef Island will also benefit from the three sloped boardings. It has three tether points for an anchor bag or tying the float to a dock. The speed safety valve makes inflation and deflation easy.

PROS

  • It comes with an anchor bag which is quite handy for storage.
  • The backrests provide adequate lumbar support for its occupants.
  • The built-in coolers are vital for keeping food persevered on long rides.

CONS

  • There is no sound system.

WaterSports Floating Island

WaterSports Floating Island is an excellent option for those who wish to float on the lake or do some tubing on the river. It can impressively fit up to ten people, and it has a diameter of 12 feet. The float also packs eight recessed seats. Four recessed seats have a mesh, while the other four don’t. There is also a central mesh that is reinforced.

WaterSports Floating Island is made of heavy-duty PVC construction. It includes an anchor bag and a rope for mooring. It also has eight recessed cup holders and an in-built cooler.

PROS

  • The seating capacity of the raft is very impressive.
  • It is made out of heavy-duty PVC.
  • The anchor bags and tie ropes make it easy for users to moor their floats safely.

CONS

  • There are complaints of the seal breaking often.

Wow Watersports Inflatable

The Wow WaterSports Inflatable is a massive lake float, having the ability to hold twelve persons simultaneously. It has twelve meshed-lined seats, which offer premium relaxation for the dwellers. The boat has an open middle which gives the occupants plenty of room.

Wow WaterSports Inflatable has reinforced grommets used to tie down the raft to a dock or boat. It also has an anchor bag filled with other items and sand for mooring on lake beds and surfaces. The wow WaterSports is perfect for parties.

PROS

  • The seating capacity is one of the best compared to others.
  • It has reinforced grommets.
  • The open middle is perfect for those who like to splash.
  • The process of inflating the wow WaterSports is easy.

CONS

  • There is a problem with users finding holes after purchase.

Coolerz Rapid Rider

Coolerz Rapid Rider is not as massive as the Wow WaterSports Inflatable, but this lake float holds its own in terms of good quality and great features. It has four-meshed lined seats, perfect for users of all age demographics. The backrests are also inflated, which is ideal for a relaxing lounge.

It has four cup holders, which keep drinks secure. People will also want to check out the cooler and storage compartments, which offer places to store snacks, drinks, and other items. Due to the ample storage compartments, people can afford to bring extra luggage, phones, repair kits, etc. It is made of puncture-resistant material, making the Coolerz Rapid a durable lake float.

PROS

  • The seats are mesh-lined.
  • It comes with an inflated backrest that allows people to relax properly as they float.
  • The storage compartment is water-resistant and dry.

CONS

  • The seating capacity is relatively small.

Intex 5 Seat Float

Intex is world-renowned for their abilities to make excellent products. Ranging from their Spas to their lake floats, the quality of Intex products never drops. The Intex 5 Seat float can hold up to five adults simultaneously, and it comes with four cup holders. It would have been preferable if the cup holders were enough to meet its five passengers, but that doesn’t limit the quality of the Intex 5 seat lake float.

Intex 5 Seat float has a mesh bottom that allows occupants to cool their feet as it floats along the lake. It features four grab handles which ensure that the occupants have easy getting in and out of the raft. The large backs add to the comfort of the float’s seats.

PROS

  • The price of the float is moderate.
  • The float seats are very comfortable, and the backrests make it even better.
  • The cup holders aid in holding cups firmly, even in rough water conditions.

CONS

  • The number of cup holders is a little inadequate.

Faq (Frequently Asked Questions)

Do Pool Floats Work In A Lake?

No. Pool floats are toys intended for swimming pools and designated swimming areas. Pool floats will not do well when used on open rivers or lakes.

How Do You Clean Lake Floats?

Owners of lake floats can use quality dish soap and water to clean their lake floats. The mixture can cut through gunks and grease accumulated on the lake float.

What Safety Precautions Can People Take When Using A Lake Float?

Every occupant of the lake float will have to wear a life jacket if someone falls into the water. Also, adults must be around to supervise the activities of the kids.

Conclusion

Heavy Duty Lake Floats derive their uniqueness from how easy they are to inflate, deflate, and their mid-range prices. Lake Floats work well for lake water and even oceans. Special features such as cup holders, sound system, mesh-lined seats are all part of what makes lake floats an excellent alternative for marine enthusiasts. This guide has reviewed some of the most impressive heavy-duty lake floats.

How Fast Can Pontoon Boats Go?

by

If you are someone planning to buy a pontoon boat for pulling skiers and tubers or just for having a ride in the lake or to reach a fishing spot and yet in second thoughts because of concerns about speed, then this article will help in finding how fast do they can actually get. Now as we know, pontoons are not meant for any water sports, skiing or tubing requiring higher speeds, they are usually meant for fishing and leisure purposes. So can they be used for water sports? Yes, they can be used. So what are the achievable speeds? Now coming straight to the answer, pontoon boats can have average speeds of about 15 to 24 miles per hour under medium to fully loaded conditions. With some tritoon models, you can even reach speeds above 45 miles per hour. The cost is up but if you look for speed, then that is what the scenario is. Now let us get into the details like the factors which can affect the speed of pontoon boats, some real life examples of speeds achieved and some means to improve the speed of your pontoon.

Pontoon boat on a high speed

What Are Pontoon Boats?

Pontoon boat is used as a recreational craft. It has two pontoons and at the center, there is an open deck. It is ideal for fishing and parties. The rear pontoon, which is the inner most one is often used. It helps fishing activities by allowing the stern of the boat to be lowered and by also allowing those involved in fishing to stand on the top while doing so. The smaller pontoon which is the floating deck or the flat deck is the area where you stand or sit on. This deck also can have overhead fishing platforms for those interested in fishing from the top of the boat. Pontoons make it possible for a pontoon boat to be hauled easily on and off the trailer, or to be towed without need for trailer.

Speed Requirements For Different Water Sports Activities?

In order to decide whether or not your pontoon boat is slow for water sports, firstly you need to have an idea about the average speed requirements for the different water sport activities. Speeds vary with tastes and ability of the riders. However, here we present some of the average speed requirements for different water sport

  • Water skiing (2 skis) – 15 to 26mph
  • Tubing: With young kids- 5 to 10mph

              With 10-12 year old kids- 15 to 20mph

              With teenagers and adults- 20 to 25 mph (above 25mph can be dangerous)

  • Wakeboarding – 13 to 18mph
  • Slalom skiing – 14 to 22mph (above 30mph can be dangerous)
  • Kneeboarding – 13 to 20 mph

From the above, we can infer that around 18-20mph is a fairly good speed that is required for carrying out water sport activities.

Real Life Examples Of How Fast Pontoon Boats Can Go

Now let us have a look at some of the real life examples of how fast pontoon boats can go. This is what we found on the internet. Tritoon model performances are also included so that you can have a better comparison between the both. These are for mostly light to medium loads.

ModelHorse Powermph 
22 feet G3 Suncatcher Pontoon                   902225
22 feet G3 Suncatcher Pontoon11525 
16 feet Sun Tracker Bass Buggy Pontoon4015 
18 feet Sun Tracker Bass Buggy Pontoon7521 
18 feet Sun Tracker Bass Buggy Pontoon6018 
18 feet Sun Tracker Party Barge Pontoon7524 
20 feet Sun Tracker Bass Buggy Pontoon6015 
22 feet Sun Tracker Fishin Barge Pontoon                    7021 
26 feet Crest III Pontoon                    9028 
20 feet Godfrey Sweetwater 2086 Pontoon5015 
20 feet Godfrey Sweetwater 2086 Pontoon9024 
23 feet Godfrey Sweetwater 2386 Pontoon11525 
24 feet Godfrey Sweetwater 2486 Pontoon9018 
24 feet Godfrey Sweetwater 2486 Pontoon11521 
22 feet Manitou Oasis Pontoon15036 
23 feet Manitou Encore SHP 373 Tritoon25045 
20 feet Quest 820 Lanai Tritoon11534 
20 feet Ultra 202 Fish & Cruise Pontoon11527 
24 feet Xcursion 255RFX Tritoon11527 
27 feet Xcursion 255RFX Tritoon25041 
25 feet JC Marine 25 NepToon Tritoon15033 
25 feet JC Marine 25 NepToon Tritoon25046 

From the above real life examples we can see that most of the pontoon boats offer the speed range that is required for carrying out water sports. Also, we can see how tritoons have an upper hand in terms of the speed achieved.

What Factors Affect The Speed Of A Pontoon Boat?

Pontoon boats speed is affected by the water and air medium. The pontoon boat moves through the water medium, but there is also interference from the air medium. You can get improved speed based on the engine power, the lift and the drag of the tubes and proper weight management.

How Can You Make Your Pontoon Boats Move Faster?

In most cases, initially you would just be looking for a pontoon boat so that you could do fishing or enjoy parties. So would happily go for some pontoon boat with a smaller motor. However, after sometime, you may try to venture into more activities like skiing, tubing, etc. In such cases, you may have more speed requirements. In order to achieve this, you may need bigger motor with more horsepower. This can add several additional costs like buying a bigger one, installation charges, etc. Rather than spending more money afterwards, it is better to have a bigger motor in the firsthand. This can help you in the future. However if you are out with a pontoon boat having a smaller motor, still there are ways by which you can improve on your speed.

Clean Pontoon Tubes To Reduce Drag

This is something you need to practice regularly. The pontoon tubes need to have a smoother surface to reduce the drag so as to get faster. Debris in the pontoon tubes can prevent it from gliding smoothly through the water. So keep the pontoon tubes clean from barnacles and gunk.

Trim The Engine Up

This is easy to do task. Sometimes when you are out with your pontoon boat, when the throttle is up, you may feel as if you are struggling a lot or water splashing under the boat and between tubes. In such cases, trimming your engine can improve the speed.

Let us see how we can trim the engine up. In trimming, the engine is physically tilted to a higher angle. This is done by using the hydraulic motor on the boat which raises the front of the boat a little out of the water. You will get improved speed as a result.

Increase Pontoon Boat’s Thrust

Tuning your pontoon boat’s motor can change the thrust. You need to increase the pontoon boat’s thrust by tuning the motor. This will increase the horse power which can in turn improve the speed. You can also switch to a more powerful engine based on the engine manufacturer assigned limits.

Lighten Load And Have Better Weight Distribution

If you are out with a smaller motor and want to achieve higher speeds, then you obviously need to lighten the load. Leave unnecessary items and do not carry them with you.

The correct placement of weight is equally important thereby which you can achieve the required lift and increase the speed. More weight towards the rear side of the boat can lift the front and reduce slowdown.

Lifting Strakes

Latest pontoon boats can come equipped with this feature. However, if you do not have them, you can try getting them on your pontoon boat as they can not only improve the speed but also fuel efficiency. Lifting strakes are strips of metal, welded directly onto the pontoons. They help to create lift on the water so that the pontoon can glide through the water instead of plodding.

Planing Pontoon Tubes

This is a technology addition you can have in your pontoon boat to reduce the drag. It can be expensive however worthy. Pontoon boats use displacement hulls. A displacement hull lies inside the water, and displaces water as it moves. The boat is held up using buoyancy. A planing hull on the other hand, lies on top of the water as it moves. Thus it holds up the boat using lift.

Pontoon Boats with planing hulls will rise up and glide on top of the water when enough power is supplied. At rest and even at slow speeds, these behave like displacement hulls. However, they climb toward the surface of the water at higher speeds thereby reducing the drag.

Convert to a tritoon

Pontoons have two tubes whereas tritons have three tubes. In order to convert your pontoon to a triton you can add a third tube to the middle of the pontoon. It is a costly update. However speed of the boat will improve for sure. So it is advisable for the first hand buyers to better go for tritoon than a pontoon. Though the initial investment is high, it will benefit you in the future.

You can also make use of booster balls, raised and mounted ski harness which will not make any difference on the speed of boats, but can improve the riding experience of the ones pulled behind. These have their rope line above water. The raised rope line ensures zero drag resulting from water. As a result, the skier or tuber can feel like they are behind a faster boat.

Party Hut Pontoon Boat

by

A pontoon is a metallic tube, flotation device with buoyancy sufficient to float itself as well as a heavy load over it. Boats using pontoon as a floating device are called pontoon boats. Pontoon boats are typically cylindrical and do not have inside access; they are simply for flotation.

In today’s world, pontoons have become a common item in most of the households. Pontoon boats are suitable for families and can accommodate furniture as well. With its many designs, pontoon boats offer a variety of features to make it more comfortable and more appropriate for the usage of the boaters. Different types of pontoon boats have their own features and characteristics which make them unique and customized according to the preferences of the customers.

Sun Tracker is a leading player in the market of pontoon boats. It is a market leader primarily in premium and luxury pontoon boats. Sun Tracker has been in the boat business since 1983. They are a part of the Bass Pro Group. It is one of the largest and best boat service providers in the pontoon boat business. It is a thirty year (a bit more than that) heritage of boating innovation, focusing mainly on family friendliness of the boats. It has always merged comfort and quality into every single model through integration. Party Hut pontoon boat is a unique product from Sun tracker.

Party Hut pontoon boat is an old product and has been now replaced by Party Barge series. Party hut was a famous pontoon boat until 2009-10. Then the company started a new series very similar to it, and discontinued Party Hut. Party hut is an all around Family fishing boat. It is a niche product and its demand was very high due to its unique features and characteristics. It can easily accommodate six people. It has a full hard top, which allows you to sit and relax on the lounge chairs or jump while swimming. You can also add many upgrades like the power bimini top, on board battery conditioner, rear canvas cover, high end audio system, on board barbeque, refrigerator, roll down shades, power inverter, compost toilet, generator box, fishing rod holders, LED light additions, power water faucet; to name a few. A heavy duty sports trailer can also be added to it. Other equipments which can be added to a party hut pontoon boat are TV (up to 27 inches), a bait tank (up to 32 gallon) , a transom live well, a bar, a dishwasher, fish box, ice maker (up to 20 pounds per day), a microwave, water heater (up to six gallon), impeller, pressure water system, Jet-a- Vator (manual or electric), nozzle reducer. The list is too long. With so many inbuilt features and optional add-ons, one could only imagine how great the party hut pontoon boat was!

Party Hut Pontoon Boat

by

Sun Tracker is a world-renowned name when it comes to pontoon boats. Since the last three decades, the brand has been impacting the pontoon boat industry with its innovations and expertise. The Party Hut Pontoon Boat is a reflection of their efforts and ideals. It is not just a boat, it is a legacy of Sun Tracker. This timeless classic has and always will be one of the favorites of all pontoon boat lovers.

Sun Tracker Party Hut 30

The Party Hut 30 is one of the most popular and sought-after pontoon boat among the masses. The boat has been designed to accommodate maximum features and amenities. It has a deck at the second level. A ladder allows access to the hardtop roof via a hatch. The rooftop provides plenty of space for sunbathing, relaxing and soaking in the panoramic water view and is enclosed by rails. The second level provides plenty of protection from overhead sun during the day. The deck makes the party hut pontoon boat a perfect choice for people who go for cruise in large groups or host a party at the water front.

The ceiling has multidirectional adjustable lights for an evening on the water. For dinning, the boat has a dinette equipped galley with sink, countertop for preparing snacks and ample storage space. The dinette transforms into a bed if needed. There is another couch at the aft side sun deck that also doubles as a bed. A lockable changing room cum toilet is included in the design of the boat.

Amenities on the party hut pontoon boat include a barbeque grill that can be mounted on the rails, water pump, a stove for cooking that uses alcohol fuels and a table that is removable and can be installed at multiple locations on the boat. A full-fledged entertainment center with Sirius radio subscription gets the music flowing. Air conditioning may also be availed of and is recommended for people who spend a night on the water. For the adventurous souls, the boat can be fitted with a ski tower for some fun on the water.

The boat features two oversized 26” full-aluminum multi chambered tubes that are built strong and sturdy. The party hut pontoon boat has a fuel capacity of 30 gallons which is quite handy. There are multiple engine motors available with both inboard and outboard configurations. The inboard offers a quieter environment while the outboard increases the aft side deck space. Engine options available range from 90HP to 150 HP with two-stroke and four-stroke options. Manufacturers include Mercury, EFI, Optimax and Verado.

The boat can house fourteen individuals comfortably for a family re-union or even a weekend gettogether. The furnishing on the boat is of highest quality with luxurious and plush upholstery made of durable and weather resistant vinyl. The party hut pontoon boat is a perfect epitome of high performance, power and extraordinarily luxurious comfort which is rare. Its outstanding design, enchanting appearance and robustness make it a complete package.  The Sun Tracker Party 30 is literally a floating cottage and is an ideal companion for exploring the waters.

Pages

FTC Disclosure

www.pontoonboats.org is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.