5 Things to Know About Pontoon Boats & Why They’re Ideal For Any Boater
When it’s time to choose the right kind of boat for your lifestyle, there are several things to consider. It’s important to understand the experience level that is required with certain watercraft as well as affordability and ease of use. By Jetdock.com.
Pontoon boats should always be part of the conversation when choosing what kind of boat to purchase for your lake home. Among the different types of watercraft on the market today, a pontoon boat can be the ideal choice for just about any boater. The following are five advantages to and things to know about pontoon boats compared to other watercraft.
1. There’s Ample Storage
Because pontoon boats are more spacious than traditional watercraft, it makes storing important items much easier. If you choose to boat during the fall and into the colder months, it’s inevitable that passengers are going to bring jackets, blankets and other bulky items. On top of these, you always need extra life vests, snacks, extra clothing, an ice chest and the rest of your safety equipment. Small power boats simply don’t have the square footage to store essential equipment and accommodate more than two people without feeling like you’re stuck in a sardine can. A pontoon boat, on the other hand, gives you the space you need for extra essentials and people, usually seating a minimum of 11 passengers.
2. It’s Beginner & Family Friendly
Pontoon boats are the ultimate beginner-friendly watercraft. Regardless of your experience, a pontoon is extremely easy to use and maintain. It features a stable platform and controls that are a cinch to master. Because of the sheer weight, pontoon boats are also easy to drive and handle, making them less likely to capsize.
Pontoon boats are also great for families with small children. Because pontoons are so spacious, this gives small children the freedom to walk about the boat without getting underfoot. Older kids can also invite their friends aboard, still leaving plenty of room for everyone’s gear, making for a more enjoyable trip all around.
3. Insurance Is Affordable
Typically, a pontoon boat is less expensive than a powerboat, making them cheaper to insure. Pontoon boats under $30,000 can be as little as $20-$30 a month for adequate insurance coverage. They can also be much cheaper to fix when an accident does occur, making them more appealing to insurance companies. Even a pontoon boat with a souped-up engine can carry a more affordable insurance policy than that of a typical powerboat when you’re using it for recreational use.
4. Docking is a Breeze
Trying to dock your boat can be a stressful experience, but with a pontoon boat, it doesn’t have to be. Because pontoons are easy to drive, they’re also easy to dock. The ideal pontoon boat dock is low profile, making it easy to drive onto and even easier to launch from. You’ll still need to practice docking, but a pontoon is the best way to master the art form.
5. It Has A Long Lifespan
Unlike ski boats, pontoons don’t change much, so there isn’t a need to constantly upgrade to the latest and greatest model. Pontoons have a timeless design and are often much more customizable after purchase, making them more appealing for long-term use. For this fact alone, pontoons can last well into the next generation of your family when taken care of properly.
Reposted by Scott Freerksen “The Lake Guy”