Introduction
Anyone hoping to buy a pontoon boat should know how much it weighs. Knowing a pontoon boat’s weight is crucial and determines how to transport it from the garage into the water. Most boat manufacturers design these vessels according to the customer’s specifications and weight descriptions.
It is important to note that various factors like anchor, engine, and gas tank can impact the boat’s overall weight. Since most of these vessels consist of aluminum components, a single pontoon boat can weigh anywhere from 2050 lbs. to 2300 lbs.
This review examines the benefits of knowing the exact weight of a pontoon boat.
Factors That Affects the Overall Weight of a Pontoon Boat
It is essential to note that certain factors impact the overall weight of a pontoon boat. Some of these factors include:
The Number of Passengers:
One main parameter that determines the actual weight of a pontoon boat is the total number of passengers on board. If the vessel can accommodate up to ten persons weighing 100 lbs. each, the total weight can be around 960–1050 pounds. It is advisable to refrain from carrying anything above the stipulated weight limit.
The Gasoline Tank:
The gas tank of any pontoon boat is a significant addition to its overall weight. A standard gas tank can accommodate up to 32 gallons of fuel, while smaller tanks stores around 7 gallons of fuel. If the gas tank of a pontoon boat can store 32 gallons of fuel weighing 7 lbs. each, the 32 gallons equates to additional weight of 224 pounds.
The Anchor:
Having an anchor is essential in keeping the boat in one spot without drifting off. Although a pontoon boat doesn’t weigh much, adding an anchor is ideal for providing more stability. Using an anchor means adding an extra weight of around 35-55 lbs. to the boat’s weight.
The Trolling Motor or Engine:
The size, capacity, and model of the pontoon boat’s engine play a vital part in determining the overall weight of the vessel. The standard engine weight for pontoon boats is around 55 -250 lbs. However, if the boat owner uses the vessel for another purpose, adding a trolling motor is necessary.
The Number of Fishing Tools:
Since the pontoon boat is ideal for fishing, it is essential to avoid overloading the vessel with fishing accessories. These accessories include a rod rack, mounted grill, or a fishing chair. Ensure not to ignore the weights of fishing equipment since there are other materials to install within the boat.
What Is the Weight of a Pontoon Boat?
Anyone planning to buy a boat should know the exact weight of the vessel to ensure easy transportation. An empty pontoon boat with motor and gear will weigh around 3,750 pounds and require a truck that can tow more than 3,750 lbs. of weight.
An average-sized pontoon boat that includes a trolling motor weighs around 2200 pounds. In addition, the boat can accommodate 2000 pounds of weight. For anyone planning to tow a pontoon boat, the towing truck must have a capacity of around 5500 pounds. The truck should be well equipped as it’s not only towing the boat but with the other gears inside.
Below is the weight of some popular pontoon boats:
Tahoe Cascade Fun Ship:
The Tahoe Cascade Fun Ship is a double-decker pontoon boat with features like a storage center, a sundeck, and a slide with a water pump. With a capacity to accommodate up to 11 persons simultaneously, the weight of the Tahoe Cascade is around 4200 pounds. It also has a maximum load capacity of 2150 pounds.
Lowe Ultra Fish and Cruise:
The Lowe Ultra is an easy-going pontoon boat that can accommodate up to eight persons simultaneously. Some basic amenities that come with this boat include three lounges, swivel seats, and a swimming platform. The Lowe Ultra weighs 1605 pounds or 728.2 kilograms.
Harris Crowne SL Twin Engine:
The Harris Crowne SL Twin Engine is a pontoon boat with luxury features and high-end performance. It comes with 350HP or 300HP twin Mercury engine configurations. With a length of 8.28 meters, it can accommodate 8-11 persons. The Harris Crowne Twin Engine boat has an overall weight of 4640 pounds or 2105 kilograms.
The Sun Tracker DLX 18 Bass Buggy:
The Sun Tracker DLX 18 Bass Buggy is an easy-to-move pontoon boat that provides plenty of room for a crew of eight persons. It is an ideal boat for fishing and comes with features like rod holders, two live wells, and four fishing chairs. The Sun Tracker DLX 18 has a dry weight of 1470 pounds, making it easier to transport from one place to another.
StarCraft MX 25 Marine:
The StarCraft MX 25 Marine is a pontoon boat with 200 HP maximum horsepower and 300 HP third-tube horsepower. It has a dry weight of 2542 pounds, a maximum capacity weight of 2710 pounds, and can accommodate up to 14 persons and combined passenger weight of 1940 lbs.
Avalon Quad Venture:
The Avalon Quad Venture is a pontoon boat model ideal for recreational activities like fishing, sea exploration, and boat cruising. It comes with the best fishing, five spacious floor plans, and luxury amenities at a great value. The Avalon Quad Venture weight comes in three categories, namely:
- It has a maximum weight capacity of 1350 pounds.
- It has an overall dry weight of 1430 pounds.
- With a 6-person capacity, it has a maximum passenger weight of 950 pounds.
The Grand Mariner 250:
The Grand Mariner 250 is a pontoon boat model that offers seamless performance and dynamic luxury. Its luxurious furniture consists of vinyl that provides comfort for adults and children. The Grand Mariner is a 14-person capacity vessel with an overall dry weight of 3527 pounds.
The Ranger 220FC:
The Ranger 220FC is a pontoon boat that boasts an ideal and sizeable layout for cruising and fishing. It comes with a dedicated space for relaxation and a tailor-made deck for fishing while on the water. Some of its features include:
- It comes with marine-grade seats for crew and passengers.
- It has an enclosed cooler compartment.
- It comes with built-in docking lights and LED navigation lights.
- It has ample storage space.
The Ranger 220FC is a 10-person capacity vessel with a maximum passenger capacity weight of 1460lbs. It has an overall dry weight of 2120 pounds and an average package weight of 3955 pounds.
The Tahoe LTZ Cruise:
The Tahoe LTZ Cruise is a midrange pontoon boat that offers a rigid and quality design. It comes with aluminum seat frames and three layouts: Cruise, Cruise 2, and Cruise Rear Bench. The Tahoe LTZ Cruise models have a dry weight that ranges from 1650 pounds to 2250 pounds.
The Sun Tracker DLX 20 Party Barge:
The Sun Tracker Party Barge is the ideal boat for people who want a large recreation deck to accommodate up to ten persons. It comes with the right features like drink holders, helm chairs, and a seat-back compartment. The Sun Tracker Party Barge has an average package weight of 3745 pounds.
Safety Tips To Follow When Buying A Pontoon Boat Of Any Weight
There are specific tips to consider and follow when buying a pontoon boat of any size or weight. Some of these tips are as follows:
Focus on Comfort and Safety over Price:
When buying a pontoon boat of any size or weight, it is ideal to prioritize comfort and safety over the vessel’s price. Even though not all expensive boats are the safest, there is a high chance that a cheaper option will be unsafe. Knowing the boat’s carrying capacity and dry weight is an added advantage.
The boat should have safety features like an emergency kit, waterproof map, lifejacket, and signal flares. Ensure to check for a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit before buying the boat. If the dealer doesn’t provide all of this safety equipment, it would be ideal to buy the materials elsewhere.
Map Out a Budget:
Mapping out a budget is essential when planning to buy a pontoon boat of a specific weight. The budget determines if the buyer will settle for a used boat or go for a brand new model. Establishing the cost of an affordable vessel will help to buy a pontoon boat during the search. Assuming the buyer’s budget is from $17,000 to $29,000, the first thing to do is check for pontoon boats that fall within the budget limit. Finding out if the boat fulfils other requirements comes later.
Examine the Boat in Person:
Most people tend to forgo the aspect of physical inspection when ordering or buying pontoon boats online. It is ideal to inspect and examine the vessel in-person to ensure it meets the required specifications. If necessary, bring in a trusted professional to assist in checking for damages or defects.
It is not advisable to settle for in-house boat mechanics unless the dealer is a reputable and reliable individual. Ensure to ask the seller for the pontoon boat weight manual. The manual will help the buyer know what the boat weighs and whether it can be easy to transport from the garage to the water.
Know The Required Size and Type:
Knowing the size and brand is essential when searching for pontoon boats for sale. It includes determining the primary purpose of the vessel and how many passengers it can accommodate. It would help to write down these specifications and other questions regarding the new boat. The list helps the buyer narrow down the search and options.
When expecting to carry two to seven passengers, it is ideal to go for a pontoon boat 17 to 22 feet long. Choosing a boat of 24 feet is perfect if the passenger count falls between 7-11 persons. Knowing its carrying capacity could be crucial since an average pontoon boat weighs around 2200 pounds.
Compare the Boat Prices:
When searching for new pontoon boats, it is not advisable to buy the first vessel presented by the dealer. It would be nice to extend the search and find other boats that meet the exact requirements. Comparing the prices and features may lead to the buyer finding a better boat that comes at an affordable price.
In addition, ensure there are no hidden charges such as debts, bank loans, and collateral. Buying a brand new boat from reputable companies ensures that the vessel is free from financial issues.
Determine The Purpose of the Boat:
When buying a new pontoon boat, it is essential to know the vessel’s primary purpose. Determining whether to use the boat on the river, sea, or rough waters will help the buyer make a better decision. Choosing a boat from 17 to 20 feet is perfect if the plan is to sail the vessel on small and calm bodies of water.
Suppose the buyer plans to swim with the boat; buying a model with swimming equipment will be wise. The boat must have an expansive deck area for anyone who wants to sunbathe. If the buyer intends to use the boat for watersport activities, the vessel’s engine should generate at least 85 horsepower to accommodate all the sports gear.
Buy From Reliable Dealers or Companies:
It is ideal to buy from reputable dealers or companies with a good track record when looking for new pontoon boats. Check the list that contains the features and ensure the boat matches all the requirements. Be sure to ask the staff when unsure about certain aspects regarding the new boat.
When buying a used pontoon boat, the best thing is to ask for proof of ownership from the dealer. It is essential to verify if the proof of ownership provided by the seller is authentic and legitimate. The only way to forgo any form of proof is if the boat comes as a recommendation from a family member or friend.
Conclusion
Knowing the weight of a standard regular boat is crucial when looking to buy a brand new model for personal use. Since these vessels are easy to drive and perfect for recreational activities, it is essential to know the overall weight of a pontoon boat. Anyone hoping to own a brand new model in the future knows that pontoon boat weight is a crucial factor to consider when buying one.
