What are the disadvantages of a pontoon boat?
Disadvantages of a Pontoon Boat Pontoons don’t run very fast, nor do they have a great range. It’s a great boat for a day on the water with friends and/or family, but don’t plan on venturing out very far with it. Ride safety can be a drawback for some because when the water gets rough, a pontoon doesn’t perform well. Pontoon tubes are generally filled with air, which provides the necessary buoyancy to keep the boat afloat. However, some pontoon boats have compartments within the tubes that can be filled with water to increase the boat’s stability and reduce rocking.Pontoon boats are ideal for navigating calm waters like lakes, rivers, and protected inlets. These large, buoyant boats are not made for rough seas. Heavy chop and large waves can easily cause a pontoon boat to capsize.
What is the lifespan of a pontoon boat?
In general, estimates put a pontoon boat’s lifespan at 15-20 years. In many cases, outboard power can also be upgraded, extending a boat’s lifespan. Pontoon boats have a few key characteristics that make them inherently lower maintenance than other boats on the market. They are a lot less delicate, and they are not going to rust as easily. Most pontoon boats come with an aluminum hull which is non-corrosive and not susceptible to rusting.
What is the best pontoon boat for rough water?
Tritoon, or triple-hull pontoon configurations perform best in rougher waters. Look for pontoon diameters of at least 25” and a minimum wall thickness of . Engine Size One deciding factor in how fast your pontoon will go is the size of the engine. Most vessels feature relatively heavy 40-horsepower engines, but if you are a thrill seeker, upgrading to a 150-horsepower engine can easily double the speed.