Undoubtedly, electrically powered vehicles are gaining more acceptance in the modern world due to their cost and environmental considerations. To protect the waterways, many jurisdictions are invoking strict environmental rulings that restrict the use of combustion engine boats on the water. Hence, it is a brilliant idea to opt for electric pontoon boats when looking for your next pontoon boat purchase.
Electric pontoon boats come with all the advantages of a combustion engine. These pontoon boats are eco-friendly and can be powered through solar panels or by charging before the trip. People who decide to purchase an electric pontoon boat will benefit from the quiet engines, reduction in carbon footprint, and more. While the range of pontoon boats isn’t wide yet, electric pontoon boats will become mainstream in a few years.
This article dive into the topic of electric pontoon boats and discuss their benefits, buying considerations, and the best manufacturers.
Benefits of Electric Pontoon Boats
One of the most significant driving forces behind the launch of electric fishing boats is producing environmentally friendly boats. Electric pontoon boats help reduce water pollution and prevent harm to wildlife above and below the sea surface. The following paragraphs will highlight why electric boats are better for the planet.
No Water Pollution
One of the most significant driving forces behind the launch of electric pontoon boats is producing environmentally friendly boats. These boats help reduce water pollution and prevent harm to wildlife above and below the sea surface. An electric pontoon boat will not spill oil, fuel oil, or gasoline in the water. People can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their boats aren’t polluting the rivers, lakes, or oceans.
Zero Emissions
An advantage of electric pontoon boats is that the propulsions are emission-free which reduces harmful substances such as carbon monoxide, particulates, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen. On the other hand, combustion engines release high pollutants into the water through exhaust fumes.
Green Energy
Fortunately, electric pontoon boats utilize green and clean energy. Electric boats are charged through the grid and powered by renewable energy, making them environmentally friendly. Diesel and petroleum engines rely on vast amounts of fuel to get to the dock. Combustion boats need fossil fuel extracted from deep within the earth, moved across far distances, refined, and distributed by road to the pump.
Energy Efficient
Most electric pontoon boats use the latest boat building technology and hydrodynamic modeling to ensure power distribution. Their lightweight hulls provide little drag and instant power, which results in minimal waste of energy. The energy-saving ability of an electric boat also makes it a cheaper option in the long run.
Quiet
Electric pontoon boats produce less sound than traditional marine outboard engines. This makes electric boats to be less disturbing to wildlife. The noise from diesel-powered boats prevents fish from hearing predators; it can also hinder navigation for partially sighted mammals.
Buying Considerations for Electric Pontoon Boats
Electric pontoon boats are more expensive to purchase the traditional pontoon boats. But even then, it is possible to get the best quality available, and not overstretch the budget. Manufacturers design their vessels around the following parameters, and one should consider each before purchasing an electric pontoon boat.
Horsepower
Horsepower plays a significant role in understanding the capabilities of electric pontoon boats. Unlike traditional gas-powered engines, electric motors receive a rating in kilowatts (kW) rather than horsepower (HP), but the two can be compared for clarity. Electric pontoon boats typically feature motors with lower horsepower ratings, often ranging from 5 to 50 HP equivalents. While this might seem less powerful than gas engines, electric motors deliver torque instantly, providing smooth acceleration and reliable power for casual cruising.
Alternative Energy Source
It would be wise to select an electric pontoon boat having an alternate energy source. Some models depend on only electric power, leaving the owner no choice but to charge. However, some models use both electric and solar energy. Getting a boat with an alternate energy source can be extremely helpful as it provides the ability to power the batteries in between charges. Even though solar energy takes longer to fully charge, having an added option can be advantageous in the wake of an emergency.
Time of Operation
If a pontoon boat depends on traditional fossil fuel, one can easily top off the tank with gas. On the other hand, electric pontoon boats need a dedicated charging station. Therefore, the vessel cannot stay on the water forever before the batteries are depleted and require a charge.
Multiple factors determine the length of time a boat can go on a full charge. Two of these factors are speed and the weight on board. If the buyers wants to stay on the water for extended periods of time, additional batteries would be required.
Speed
Speed lovers will likely not enjoy electric powered pontoon boats. An electric pontoon boat vessel can achieve the similar speeds as gas-powered pontoon boat. However, the electric pontoon boats are significantly limited by battery capacity, and at high speeds the batteries would deplete so quickly that the trip would be rendered useless.
Slower electric pontoon boats do have their advantages. Electric pontoon boat are silent, reducing noise pollution and turbulence. They are perfect for fishing, partying, and cruising on lakes and rivers.
Onboard Amenities
Pontoon boats can come with an extensive list of electrically powered onboard amenities. Onboard amenities include refrigerators, television sets, audio systems, lighting systems, water heaters, and live-wells. These amenities provide an additional drain on the batteries, and extra batteries should be considered based on the number of additional amenities.
How Much Does An Electric Pontoon Boat Cost?
The cost of electric pontoon boats varies based on factors such as size, features, and motor specifications. New electric pontoon boats may start around $45,000. It’s important to note that prices can fluctuate based on optional features, battery configurations, and regional factors. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, it’s recommended to consult directly with manufacturers or authorized dealers.
Disadvantages Of Electric Pontoon Boats
Electric pontoon boat engines aren’t as strong as their gas powered counterparts. Electric pontoon boats aren’t suited for large bodies of water, such as the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Furthermore, the replacement parts of electric boats are harder to find. So, when the electric boat breaks down, it might present a tedious challenge for the owner. Finally, due to their complexity and lack of familiarity, it is not always easy to troubleshoot and diagnose problems.
Manufacturers of Electric Pontoon Boats
Princecraft BRIO Series
The BRIO Electric Series from Princecraft consists of two electric pontoon boat models. The Brio-e 15 is a 15’1” long and 7’6” wide model that can seat 6 people as per NMMA USA standards. The Brio-e 17 has similar width but is 17’1” long and accommodates 7 persons. All the basic amenities are available including a Jensen stereo, 4 waterproof speakers, bimini top, adequate storage space and cup holders.
A remote throttle has an integrated display for providing information regarding speed and remaining charge. The boats may be installed with a Torqeedo 2.0R or 4.0R engine which are equal to 5HP and 9.9HP outboards respectively. A solar panel maybe installed to charge the batteries. These boats have a rear swim platform and can be fitted with a livewell and rod storage compartment for facilitating fishing.
ElectraCraft 162TR Electric Pontoon Boat
Coming in quick is the ElectraCraft 162TR. With innovative technology, a taste for design and style, and excellence, one can be sure of getting their money’s worth. The pontoon is the brainchild of ElectraCraft, one of the oldest and most dependable pontoon makers. With enough room to go around, the ElectraCraft can comfortably accommodate twelve adults, even though it is just sixteen feet long.
Luxury is the definition of the pontoon boat, with a sleek, avant-garde interior design, a roomy deck layer, an inexpensive fiberglass roof, and even a window enclosure. On the interior design, the pontoon boat is for the stylish ones. With the floor being the non-slippery Luxury Woven Vinyl, party and dancing barefoot can go all night long.
As if that were not enough, the boat comes loaded. It comes with a built-in refrigerator, a four-speaker sound system, an LED interior lighting system, and a radio. When it comes to entertainment, this is the best of them all. Get set for premium parties.
The 162 TR has a top speed of six mph and an average cruising speed of four mph. A powerful battery makes it possible to run nine hours comfortably.
The boat comes in two models, the standard electric and the solar. The manufacturer believes the solar roof can generate 880 watts on a sunny day. In a tropical environment, the boat might never require a shore charge.
Pure Watercraft Electric Pontoon Boat
At 25 feet, this vessel is the boat of the future. Created in collaboration with leading automakers General Motors (GM), the Pure Watercraft electric pontoon is the perfect vessel for cruising and solitude. The electric boat is powered by GM’s automotive battery pack, as high as 66 kWh, and single or twin Pure Outboard motors. The mighty vessel is capable of accommodating 10 passengers.
The makers called it “affordable luxury.” The luxury comes from silent running, smooth acceleration, and reduced maintenance. It has a top speed of 23 mph. Different options would be available for different markets. So, there would be a boat for everyone – the recreational hunter, the angler, and the partygoer. The Pure Watercraft Pontoon boat will hit the market in late 2022 and is available for preorder.
Mogarro 500 Electric Pontoon Boat
A boat of international flair, the Mogarro 500 electric pontoon boat is sourced from Spain. It runs by an electric outboard motor that operates silently. Designed for sport fishing, the vessel has a tri-tube pontoon as the hull type. The pontoon is aluminum and measures a whopping thirty-two feet in length. This behemoth can hold 12 adults.
The boat is also an ideal place for vacation. It has onboard amenities like a kitchen, a toilet, a shower room, a heater, a water tank, and a built-in cabinet. The pontoon desires that one is as comfortable as possible while moving through the waters.
When it comes to style, few boats rival the Mogarro. The Spanish taste reflects in taste with faux wood exteriors and a nice clean cabin look. The watercraft also has a spacious outdoor deck perfect for lounging.
Little wonder the boat is the choice for nautical tourism agencies and resorts. The aluminum casing offers tremendous stability, ensuring the pontoon boat can move with thick waves without the user feeling the brunt.
The boat is also a powerhouse, having an engine capable of generating 50 horsepower for speed and excellence. It was initially created to depend on gas but can change to an eco-friendly battery. It is a boat for fishing, entertainment, and family, making it something for everyone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, electric pontoon boats offer a hard to match unique blend of sustainability, quiet operation, and cost efficiency. As more boaters shift toward eco-friendly and low-maintenance options, electric pontoons are paving the way for a cleaner, more enjoyable experience on the water. Whether its their green appeal, the reduced fuel expenses, or simply the serenity of an engine-free cruise, electric pontoon boats provide an exciting and forward-thinking way to enjoy the outdoors. Make the switch today and be part of the future of boating!
