Do you love boating? Does the idea of owning your own “house on the water” sound appealing?
If you answered “yes” to any or all of these questions, you are likely ready to buy a pontoon boat. Of course, there are some downsides to purchasing this type of boat. Being a boat owner can be beneficial.
So what are the pros and cons of buying a pontoon boat? Read on to find out.
Pros
Pontoon boats have many advantages, especially when spending time with your family. Here are the pros of choosing any type of pontoon.
It Has a Wide Space
The wide space of a pontoon boat is a major pro when purchasing the boat. This allows for plenty of room while hosting events on the water or just enjoying long journeying. The wide space also allows for larger pieces of equipment and machinery to be stored, including water sports gear and extra seating.
It’s Low Maintenance Costs
Pontoon boats offer several advantages, particularly when it comes to low maintenance costs. The pontoon’s economical construction makes it one of the most cost-effective options on the water. As they do not require the same level of hull maintenance or expensive propulsion systems, owning a pontoon also allows owners to save money on costly repairs.
Comfortable Ride
The pros of buying a pontoon for a comfortable ride include the fact that pontoon boats are two to three times wider than standard boats, allowing for more room and comfort for passengers. Additionally, pontoon boats typically have larger and more cushioned seating, making for a more comfortable experience. The boats also tend to ride higher in the water, creating a smoother ride for passengers.
Cons
Buying a boat can be beneficial; however, it’s also subject to drawbacks. Here are some disadvantages of owning a pontoon boat.
It’s Slow and Has a Limited Range
A pontoon’s main drawback is its slow speed, and limited range can be viewed as a potential downside. Having a lower top speed, typically between 10 and 20 mph, can be a definite drawback if reaching a destination quickly is necessary. Additionally, a pontoon may have a limited range because it is less fuel efficient compared to other vessels.
Ride Safety is Risky
In terms of ride safety, they can be riskier than other types of boats due to their heavier weight and low profile, making them harder to maneuver in high waves, winds, and choppy conditions. If you’re looking to venture on rough waves, it’s better to double-check your boat options.
It’s Not Easy to Clean
On the downside, these boats can be difficult to clean, particularly the deck and exterior surfaces, which can be easily stained by UV rays, dirt, and corrosive substances. As such, anyone who decides to purchase a pontoon boat should be prepared to spend time on regular maintenance and careful cleaning. Further, the tasks involved in cleaning a pontoon boat can be slightly more complicated and labor-intensive, so it would be rather good to look for pontoon boat hire than owning one.
Make Sure to Research Before Owing a Pontoon
Overall, buying a pontoon boat can be a great investment for those who are looking for a leisurely and relaxing experience on the water. However, it is important to do thorough research beforehand to weigh the pros and cons and understand the costs associated with boat and pontoon boat ownership. If you are ready to own a pontoon boat, take action and start researching the different types and models in your area.
If you want more articles to read, visit the rest of our blog.
