Pontoon boats are a popular choice for boating enthusiasts. They offer plenty of space, stability, and versatility, making them ideal for various water activities. If you’re looking for a small pontoon boat that’s easy to handle and transport, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore the top small pontoon boat brands and what they offer.
Advantages of Small Pontoon Boats
Small pontoon boats offer several benefits over larger models. Here are a few advantages:
- Maneuverability: Small pontoons are easy to maneuver and handle, even in tight spaces.
- Affordability: Small pontoons are generally less expensive than larger models, making them a great option for those on a budget.
- Easy to Transport: Small pontoons can be transported on a trailer and fit into a standard garage or storage unit.
- Fuel Efficiency: Small pontoons require less fuel to operate, making them a cost-effective option for boaters.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Small Pontoon Boat
Before making a purchase, there are several factors to consider when choosing a small pontoon boat. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
Size and Capacity
The size of your boat will depend on your needs and preferences. Small pontoon boats typically range from 16 to 22 feet in length and can accommodate up to 12 passengers. Keep in mind the number of passengers you plan to have on board and how much weight the boat can handle.
Deck Configuration
Pontoon boats come with different deck configurations, including fishing, cruising, and luxury models. Consider how you plan to use the boat and what deck configuration would suit your needs.
Motor and Speed
The motor and speed of your boat will affect its performance and fuel efficiency. Small pontoons typically come with outboard motors, which are easier to maintain and repair. Consider the horsepower and fuel consumption of the motor when making your purchase.
Material
Pontoon boats are made from different materials, including aluminum and fiberglass. Aluminum is the most common material for small pontoons due to its durability and lightweight design.
Warranty
When purchasing a small pontoon boat, consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
Top Small Pontoon Boat Brands
Now that you know what to consider when buying a small pontoon boat, let’s review the top brands in the market and their most popular models.
Bennington
Bennington is a popular pontoon boat brand known for its luxury and performance. They offer a range of small pontoon boats, including the S Model and the R Model. These boats come with various features, including comfortable seating, high-quality audio systems, and ample storage space.
Bennington’s S168 is a popular small pontoon boat model that offers a range of benefits, including:
- Comfortable and spacious seating for up to 8 passengers
- High-quality audio system for an immersive experience on the water
- Convenient storage options, including under-seat storage and a built-in cooler
- Bimini top for shade and protection from the sun
- Swim ladder for easy access to and from the water
- Efficient and reliable outboard motor for a smooth ride
Avalon
Avalon is another top pontoon boat brand known for its high-quality and luxurious boats. Their small pontoon boat models include the GS Cruise and LS Cruise, which offer a smooth ride and plenty of space for passengers. Avalon also offers several customization options, allowing buyers to tailor their boat to their specific needs.
Avalon’s GS Cruise is a notable model that offers a range of benefits, including:
- Smooth ride and stable handling for a comfortable experience on the water
- Ample seating for up to 10 passengers, with customizable options to fit your needs
- High-quality sound system with Bluetooth connectivity for an immersive audio experience
- Plenty of storage space for all your gear and equipment
- Choice of performance packages to customize your ride for your specific needs and preferences
- Durable and reliable construction for long-lasting use
Manitou
Manitou is a premium pontoon boat brand that offers several models of small pontoon boats, including the Aurora and Oasis models. These boats are known for their speed, agility, and high-performance features. Manitou’s V-Toon technology allows for a smoother and more efficient ride, even at high speeds.
Manitou’s Aurora LE is a popular small pontoon boat model that offers a range of benefits, including:
- Patented V-Toon technology for a smooth and efficient ride
- Comfortable seating for up to 10 passengers, with options for customizable layouts and configurations
- High-quality audio system with Bluetooth connectivity for an immersive audio experience
- Convenient storage options, including under-seat storage and a built-in cooler
- Efficient and reliable outboard motor for a smooth ride
- Choice of performance packages to customize your ride for your specific needs and preferences
Premier
Premier is a trusted brand in the pontoon boat industry, offering a range of small pontoon boats, including the SunSpree and the Explorer. These boats are built with high-quality materials and feature comfortable seating, ample storage space, and other convenient amenities.
Premier’s SunSpree RF is a notable model that offers a range of benefits, including:
- Comfortable and spacious seating for up to 10 passengers, with options for customizable layouts and configurations
- High-quality audio system with Bluetooth connectivity for an immersive audio experience
- Plenty of storage space for all your gear and equipment, including under-seat storage and a built-in cooler
- Bimini top for shade and protection from the sun
- Swim ladder for easy access to and from the water
- Optional watersports package for added fun on the water
Harris
Harris is another top brand in the pontoon boat market, offering several models of small pontoons, including the Cruiser and the Sunliner. These boats are designed with comfort and versatility in mind, making them ideal for various water activities.
Harris’ Cruiser 180 is a popular small pontoon boat model that offers a range of benefits, including:
- Comfortable and spacious seating for up to 8 passengers, with options for customizable layouts and configurations
- High-quality audio system with Bluetooth connectivity for an immersive audio experience
- Convenient storage options, including under-seat storage and a built-in cooler
- Bimini top for shade and protection from the sun
- Swim ladder for easy access to and from the water
- Optional watersports package for added fun on the water
Sweetwater
Sweetwater is a popular pontoon boat brand known for its affordable yet high-quality boats. Their small pontoon boat models include the SW 1880 and SW 1680, which offer plenty of space and comfort for passengers.
Sweetwater’s SW 1880 is a notable model that offers a range of benefits, including:
- Spacious and comfortable seating for up to 10 passengers, with options for customizable layouts and configurations
- High-quality audio system with Bluetooth connectivity for an immersive audio experience
- Plenty of storage space for all your gear and equipment, including under-seat storage and a convenient changing room
- Efficient and reliable outboard motor for a smooth ride
- Bimini top for shade and protection from the sun
- Swim ladder for easy access to and from the water
Cypress Cay
Cypress Cay is a brand under the larger pontoon boat manufacturer, Brunswick Corporation. The brand is known for producing quality pontoons that are both stylish and functional. Cypress Cay boats are designed with performance in mind and come in a range of sizes to accommodate different needs.
The most notable model from Cypress Cay is the Seabreeze 232. This model offers the following benefits and features:
- Spacious and comfortable seating for up to 12 passengers
- Large bimini top for shade and protection from the sun
- Elevated helm for better visibility while driving
- LED lighting throughout the boat for added safety and ambiance
- Available with a range of engine options for different power needs
Sun Tracker
Sun Tracker is a brand owned by the Tracker Marine Group, a subsidiary of Bass Pro Shops. The brand is known for producing high-quality pontoons at an affordable price. Sun Tracker boats are designed with comfort and convenience in mind, making them a popular choice for families and recreational boaters.
The most notable model from Sun Tracker is the Party Barge 24 DLX. This model offers the following benefits and features:
- Spacious and comfortable seating for up to 12 passengers
- Large bimini top for shade and protection from the sun
- Built-in cooler, table, and changing room for added convenience
- High-quality stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity
- Available with a range of engine options for different power needs
Princecraft
Princecraft is a Canadian pontoon boat manufacturer that has been in business since 1954. The brand is known for producing quality boats that are built to withstand the harsh Canadian climate. Princecraft boats are designed with a focus on durability, safety, and performance.
The most notable model from Princecraft is the Vogue 27 XT. This model offers the following benefits and features:
- Spacious and comfortable seating for up to 14 passengers
- Large bimini top for shade and protection from the sun
- Built-in cooler, sink, and table for added convenience
- High-quality stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity
- Available with a range of engine options for different power needs
Berkshire
Berkshire is a brand under the larger pontoon boat manufacturer, Forest River Marine. The brand is known for producing luxurious and high-performance pontoons. Berkshire boats are designed with a focus on comfort, style, and performance, making them a popular choice for boaters who value quality and luxury.
The most notable model from Berkshire is the STS 23 RFX. This model offers the following benefits and features:
- Spacious and comfortable seating for up to 12 passengers
- High-quality upholstery and finishes for a luxurious feel
- Large bimini top for shade and protection from the sun
- Elevated helm for better visibility while driving
- High-quality stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity
- Available with a range of engine options for different power needs
Comparison of Top Brands
When comparing the top small pontoon boat brands, consider factors such as price, features, and warranty. Each brand has its own unique features and advantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Choosing the right small pontoon boat requires careful consideration of several factors, including size, deck configuration, motor and speed, material, and warranty. By considering these factors and reviewing the top brands in the market, you can find the perfect small pontoon boat for your needs and budget.
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