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Best Pontoon Boat Brands 2023 Guide

Introduction

Pontoon boats are a popular type of boat that is known for its stability, comfort, and versatility. They are perfect for a variety of activities, including cruising, fishing, and swimming. Pontoon boats are also relatively easy to operate and maintain, making them a good choice for boaters of all experience levels.

Purpose of the blog post

This blog post will discuss the best pontoon boat brands on the market in 2023. We will consider factors such as quality, construction, features, and performance when making our recommendations. We will also provide tips on how to choose the right pontoon boat for your needs and budget.

Importance of choosing a reliable and reputable brand

When choosing a pontoon boat, it is important to select a brand that is known for its quality and reliability. Pontoon boats are a significant investment, so you want to make sure that you are getting a boat that will last for many years. A good way to ensure that you are choosing a quality boat is to select a brand that has a good reputation in the boating industry.

Why choose a pontoon boat?

Pontoon boats offer a number of advantages over other types of boats, including:

  • Stability: Pontoon boats are very stable, making them ideal for families with young children and for people who are new to boating.
  • Comfort: Pontoon boats are typically very comfortable, with plenty of seating and amenities such as sun loungers, tables, and grills.
  • Versatility: Pontoon boats can be used for a variety of activities, including cruising, fishing, swimming, and sunbathing.
  • Ease of operation: Pontoon boats are relatively easy to operate, making them a good choice for boaters of all experience levels.
  • Low maintenance: Pontoon boats require less maintenance than other types of boats, such as fiberglass boats.

Overall, pontoon boats are a great choice for boaters who are looking for a stable, comfortable, and versatile boat. If you are considering buying a pontoon boat, be sure to do your research and choose a reputable brand.

In the next section, we will discuss the best pontoon boat brands on the market in 2023.


Factors to Consider when Choosing a Pontoon Boat Brand


Quality and Construction


When choosing a pontoon boat brand, it is important to consider the quality of the materials and construction. Pontoon boats should be made with durable materials that can withstand the elements and the rigors of boating. Look for a brand that uses high-quality aluminum or fiberglass for the hull and deck. You should also make sure that the boat is well-constructed, with solid welds and joints.


Reputable manufacturers are more likely to use high-quality materials and construction methods. They also have a vested interest in building boats that will last, so they are more likely to stand behind their products with warranties.


Performance and Handling


Another important factor to consider is the performance and handling of the pontoon boat. You want a boat that has a smooth and comfortable ride, even in rough water. Look for a brand that offers a variety of hull designs to choose from, depending on your needs. If you plan on doing a lot of watersports or boating in rough water, you may want to consider a tritoon boat, which has three tubes instead of two.


Engine power is also an important factor to consider. Make sure to choose an engine that is powerful enough to meet your needs. If you plan on doing a lot of towing or carrying a lot of passengers, you will need a more powerful engine.

Features and Amenities


Pontoon boats can come with a variety of features and amenities that can enhance your boating experience. Some popular features include:


* Comfortable seating options

* Entertainment systems

* Storage space

* Bimini tops

* Changing rooms

* Wet bars

* Grills

* Fishing chairs

* Livewells

* Swim platforms


Consider the features that are important to you and choose a pontoon boat brand that offers the features you want.


Customer Reviews and Reputation


Before you choose a pontoon boat brand, it is important to research customer feedback and brand reputation. This can help you to identify brands that are known for building high-quality boats and providing good customer service.


There are a number of online platforms where you can read customer reviews of pontoon boat brands. You can also check forums and social media groups to see what other boaters are saying about different brands.


Once you have narrowed down your choices, it is a good idea to visit a few dealerships to see the boats in person and talk to salespeople. This can give you a better sense of the quality of the boats and the customer service offered by each brand.


By considering the factors discussed above, you can choose a pontoon boat brand that is right for you and your needs.

Top Pontoon Boat Brands


Brand 1: Bennington


Bennington is a leading manufacturer of pontoon boats, known for its high-quality construction, innovative features, and stylish designs. Bennington boats are made with durable materials and solid construction methods, and they are backed by a comprehensive warranty.

Bennington pontoon boats offer a variety of key features and innovations, including:

  • All-welded aluminum construction: Bennington boats are made with all-welded aluminum construction, which is stronger and more durable than traditional riveted construction.
  • Unibody design: Bennington boats feature a unibody design, which means that the hull and deck are welded together as one piece. This makes the boat stronger and more rigid, and it also reduces noise and vibration.
  • Wave-slicing hull design: Bennington boats have a wave-slicing hull design that cuts through the water smoothly and efficiently, even in rough water.
  • Luxurious features: Bennington boats offer a variety of luxurious features, such as plush seating, premium sound systems, and wet bars.

Popular Bennington pontoon boat models include the 25RLE, the 27SC LE, and the 30QX.

Brand 2: Manitou


Manitou is another leading manufacturer of pontoon boats. Manitou boats are known for their stylish designs, innovative features, and comfortable ride.

Manitou pontoon boats offer a variety of key features and innovations, including:

  • Tri-toon hull design: Manitou boats feature a tri-toon hull design, which means that they have three tubes instead of two. This makes the boat more stable and provides more deck space.
  • Wave-piercing hull design: Manitou boats have a wave-piercing hull design that cuts through the water smoothly and efficiently, even in rough water.
  • Luxurious features: Manitou boats offer a variety of luxurious features, such as plush seating, premium sound systems, and wet bars.

Popular Manitou pontoon boat models include the Legacy 230, the Cruise 250, and the LX 27.

Brand 3: Harris



Harris is a well-known manufacturer of pontoon boats, known for its high-quality construction, innovative features, and spacious decks.

Harris pontoon boats offer a variety of key features and innovations, including:

  • All-welded aluminum construction: Harris boats are made with all-welded aluminum construction, which is stronger and more durable than traditional riveted construction.
  • Unibody design: Harris boats feature a unibody design, which means that the hull and deck are welded together as one piece. This makes the boat stronger and more rigid, and it also reduces noise and vibration.
  • Spacious decks: Harris boats offer spacious decks with plenty of room for seating, entertaining, and fishing.
  • Luxurious features: Harris boats offer a variety of luxurious features, such as plush seating, premium sound systems, and wet bars.

Popular Harris pontoon boat models include the Sunliner 250, the Grand Mariner 250, and the Solstice 260.

Brand 4: Premier Pontoons


Premier Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of luxury pontoon boats, known for its high-quality construction, innovative features, and stylish designs. Premier boats are made with durable materials and solid construction methods, and they are backed by a comprehensive warranty.

Premier Pontoon boats offer a variety of key features and innovations, including:

  • All-welded aluminum construction: Premier boats are made with all-welded aluminum construction, which is stronger and more durable than traditional riveted construction.
  • Unibody design: Premier boats feature a unibody design, which means that the hull and deck are welded together as one piece. This makes the boat stronger and more rigid, and it also reduces noise and vibration.
  • Wave-slicing hull design: Premier boats have a wave-slicing hull design that cuts through the water smoothly and efficiently, even in rough water.
  • Luxurious features: Premier boats offer a variety of luxurious features, such as plush seating, premium sound systems, wet bars, and changing rooms.

Popular Premier Pontoon boat models include the Elite 250, the Eclipse 270, and the Elegance 300.

Brand 5: Sylvan Pontoons


Sylvan Pontoons is a well-known manufacturer of pontoon boats, known for its high-quality construction, innovative features, and affordable prices. Sylvan boats are made with durable materials and solid construction methods, and they are backed by a comprehensive warranty.

Sylvan Pontoon boats offer a variety of key features and innovations, including:

  • All-welded aluminum construction: Sylvan boats are made with all-welded aluminum construction, which is stronger and more durable than traditional riveted construction.
  • Unibody design: Sylvan boats feature a unibody design, which means that the hull and deck are welded together as one piece. This makes the boat stronger and more rigid, and it also reduces noise and vibration.
  • Wave-slicing hull design: Sylvan boats have a wave-slicing hull design that cuts through the water smoothly and efficiently, even in rough water.
  • Affordable prices: Sylvan boats are known for their affordable prices, making them a good choice for budget-minded boaters.

Popular Sylvan Pontoon boat models include the Mirage 820, the Mirage 850, and the Mirage 920.

Brand 6: Crestliner Pontoons


Crestliner Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of pontoon boats, known for its high-quality construction, innovative features, and durable hulls. Crestliner boats are made with durable materials and solid construction methods, and they are backed by a comprehensive warranty.

Crestliner Pontoon boats offer a variety of key features and innovations, including:

  • All-welded aluminum construction: Crestliner boats are made with all-welded aluminum construction, which is stronger and more durable than traditional riveted construction.
  • Unibody design: Crestliner boats feature a unibody design, which means that the hull and deck are welded together as one piece. This makes the boat stronger and more rigid, and it also reduces noise and vibration.
  • Durable hulls: Crestliner boats are known for their durable hulls, which can withstand the rigors of boating.
  • Innovative features: Crestliner boats offer a variety of innovative features, such as the Smart Deck system, which allows you to easily customize your deck layout.

Popular Crestliner Pontoon boat models include the 2100 Fish & Cruise, the 2500 Cruise, and the 3000 Tri-Toon.

Brand 7: Godfrey Pontoons


Godfrey Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of pontoon boats, known for its high-quality construction, innovative features, and spacious decks. Godfrey boats are made with durable materials and solid construction methods, and they are backed by a comprehensive warranty.

Godfrey Pontoon boats offer a variety of key features and innovations, including:

  • All-welded aluminum construction: Godfrey boats are made with all-welded aluminum construction, which is stronger and more durable than traditional riveted construction.
  • Unibody design: Godfrey boats feature a unibody design, which means that the hull and deck are welded together as one piece. This makes the boat stronger and more rigid, and it also reduces noise and vibration.
  • Spacious decks: Godfrey boats offer spacious decks with plenty of room for seating, entertaining, and fishing.
  • Luxurious features: Godfrey boats offer a variety of luxurious features, such as plush seating, premium sound systems, and wet bars.

Popular Godfrey Pontoon boat models include the Aqua Patio 230, the SanPan 250, and the Sweetwater 270.

Brand 8: Avalon Pontoons


Avalon Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of pontoon boats, known for its innovative designs, luxurious features, and comprehensive warranty. Avalon boats are made with durable materials and solid construction methods, and they are backed by a 10-year warranty on the hull and deck.

Avalon Pontoon boats offer a variety of key features and innovations, including:

  • All-welded aluminum construction: Avalon boats are made with all-welded aluminum construction, which is stronger and more durable than traditional riveted construction.
  • Unibody design: Avalon boats feature a unibody design, which means that the hull and deck are welded together as one piece. This makes the boat stronger and more rigid, and it also reduces noise and vibration.
  • Innovative designs: Avalon boats are known for their innovative designs, such as the patented Slide-A-Way Seat and the Slide-A-Way Table.
  • Luxurious features: Avalon boats offer a variety of luxurious features, such as plush seating, premium sound systems, and wet bars.

Popular Avalon Pontoon boat models include the Catalina 240, the Capri 250, and the Excalibur 270.

Brand 9: Tahoe Pontoons


Tahoe Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of pontoon boats, known for its high-quality construction, affordable prices, and extensive warranty. Tahoe boats are made with durable materials and solid construction methods, and they are backed by a 10-year warranty on the hull and deck.

Tahoe Pontoon boats offer a variety of key features and innovations, including:

  • All-welded aluminum construction: Tahoe boats are made with all-welded aluminum construction, which is stronger and more durable than traditional riveted construction.
  • Unibody design: Tahoe boats feature a unibody design, which means that the hull and deck are welded together as one piece. This makes the boat stronger and more rigid, and it also reduces noise and vibration.
  • Affordable prices: Tahoe boats are known for their affordable prices, making them a good choice for budget-minded boaters.
  • Extensive warranty: Tahoe boats are backed by a 10-year warranty on the hull and deck, one of the most extensive warranties in the industry.

Popular Tahoe Pontoon boat models include the 2400 Series, the 2500 Series, and the 2700 Series.

Brand 10: Sun Tracker Pontoons


Sun Tracker Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of pontoon boats, known for its innovative features, affordable prices, and extensive warranty. Sun Tracker boats are made with durable materials and solid construction methods, and they are backed by a lifetime warranty on the hull and deck.

Sun Tracker Pontoon boats offer a variety of key features and innovations, including:

  • All-welded aluminum construction: Sun Tracker boats are made with all-welded aluminum construction, which is stronger and more durable than traditional riveted construction.
  • Unibody design: Sun Tracker boats feature a unibody design, which means that the hull and deck are welded together as one piece. This makes the boat stronger and more rigid, and it also reduces noise and vibration.
  • Innovative features: Sun Tracker boats are known for their innovative features, such as the patented Fish Tracker Fishing Station and the Party Cove Entertainment System.
  • Affordable prices: Sun Tracker boats are known for their affordable prices, making them a good choice for budget-minded boaters.
  • Extensive warranty: Sun Tracker boats are backed by a lifetime warranty on the hull and deck, one of the most extensive warranties in the industry.

Popular Sun Tracker Pontoon boat models include the Party Cove 230, the Sportfish 24 XP3, and the Bass Buggy 25 DLX.

Brand 11: Princecraft Pontoons


Princecraft Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of pontoon boats in Canada, known for its high-quality construction, innovative features, and stylish designs. Princecraft boats are made with durable materials and solid construction methods, and they are backed by a comprehensive warranty.

Princecraft Pontoon boats offer a variety of key features and innovations, including:

  • All-welded aluminum construction: Princecraft boats are made with all-welded aluminum construction, which is stronger and more durable than traditional riveted construction.
  • Unibody design: Princecraft boats feature a unibody design, which means that the hull and deck are welded together as one piece. This makes the boat stronger and more rigid, and it also reduces noise and vibration.
  • Stylish designs: Princecraft boats are known for their stylish designs, with a variety of colors and options to choose from.
  • Innovative features: Princecraft boats offer a variety of innovative features, such as the patented Flexdeck system and the Smart Rail system.

Popular Princecraft Pontoon boat models include the Brio 2.0, the Vectra 21 RL, and the Horizon 25 SE.

Brand 12: Sea-Doo Switch Pontoons


Sea-Doo Switch Pontoons is a unique brand of pontoon boats that are designed to be more versatile and fun than traditional pontoons. Sea-Doo Switch boats feature a modular design that allows you to easily customize the boat to fit your needs, and they also come with a variety of innovative features, such as the LinQ system and the BRP Rotax ACE engine.

Sea-Doo Switch Pontoons offer a variety of key features and innovations, including:

  • Modular design: Sea-Doo Switch boats feature a modular design, which means that you can easily add and remove seats, tables, and other accessories to customize the boat to fit your needs.
  • LinQ system: Sea-Doo Switch boats come with the LinQ system, which allows you to easily attach and detach accessories such as coolers, grills, and speakers.
  • BRP Rotax ACE engine: Sea-Doo Switch boats come with the BRP Rotax ACE engine, which is a fuel-efficient and reliable engine that is also very quiet.

Popular Sea-Doo Switch Pontoon boat models include the 19, the 21, and the 23.

These are just a few of the top pontoon boat brands on the market. When choosing a pontoon boat brand, it is important to consider your individual needs and budget. Be sure to research different brands and models before you make a purchase.

Conclusion

Choosing a reliable and reputable pontoon boat brand is essential for ensuring that you get a high-quality boat that will last for many years. When making your decision, be sure to consider the following factors:

  • Quality and construction: Look for a brand that uses durable materials and solid construction methods.
  • Performance and handling: Consider your needs and preferences when it comes to performance and handling, such as a smooth ride, plenty of power, and easy maneuverability.
  • Features and amenities: Think about the features and amenities that are important to you, such as comfortable seating, a sound system, and a wet bar.
  • Customer reviews and reputation: Read customer reviews and research the brand's reputation to get an idea of what other boaters are saying.
  • Warranty: Look for a brand that offers a comprehensive warranty on its boats.

Once you have considered all of these factors, you can begin narrowing down your choices and testing out different brands and models. This will help you to find the perfect pontoon boat for your needs and budget.

Buying a pontoon boat is a significant investment, so it is important to take your time and do your research before making a decision. Visit different dealerships, talk to salespeople, and read customer reviews to learn as much as you can about different brands and models. You may also want to consider renting a pontoon boat from a local marina to get a feel for how different boats handle on the water.