The Bennington Quad Bench Pontoon was a boat I didn’t think I’d need, but after experiencing it, I realized it’s a game-changer for socializing and comfort on the water. This pontoon quickly became our top choice for cruises and entertaining our older guests. Freedom Boat Club in our area has a good amount of these available to reserve.
Design and Build
The Bennington Quad Bench Pontoon is designed with comfort and socializing in mind. The spacious layout features four plush benches—two at the bow and two at the stern—providing ample seating for everyone on board. The open deck design allows for easy movement and interaction among guests, while the soft, luxurious seating makes it perfect for lounging and enjoying a relaxing day on the water. The sleek design and smooth ride add to its appeal, creating an all-around enjoyable experience.
Performance
Powered by a reliable Yamaha 150 HP engine, the Bennington Quad Bench Pontoon delivers smooth and stable performance. While it’s not designed for speed, this pontoon comfortably cruises at around 15-20 MPH, making it ideal for leisurely rides, sunset cruises, or exploring calm waters. The boat handles well even with a full load, maintaining stability and comfort throughout the journey. Although it’s not a speedboat, you can easily pull a tube or Zup board with it.
The pontoon’s design makes it perfect for calm lakes and rivers, where the emphasis is on relaxation rather than high-speed thrills. It’s a great choice for those who prioritize comfort and socializing over speed and maneuverability.
Comfort
This is where the Bennington Quad Bench Pontoon truly shines, especially for my parents. As they get older, the easy access to the boat and the stability it provides on the water ensure they are always comfortable. The boat offers plenty of plush seating and space for everyone on board. The quad bench layout provides versatile seating options, allowing passengers to lounge, sit upright, or even stretch out fully. The boat is also equipped with a Bimini top for shade, ensuring that everyone stays cool and comfortable, even on the hottest days.
Storage
Storage on the Bennington is adequate, with under-seat compartments and additional storage areas throughout the boat. However, it’s worth noting that this model does not have space for a porta-potty and is missing a lazarette.
Features
The Bennington Quad Bench Pontoon comes with a range of features that enhance the overall boating experience:
- Plush Quad Bench Seating
- Bimini Top for Shade
- Built-In Cooler
- Ample Cup Holders
- Premium Sound System
Electronics
The pontoon is equipped with a high-quality sound system that allows you to set the perfect mood with your favorite music. The boat also includes a basic Garmin GPS and a few other essentials, though there’s always room for upgrades if you want to add more advanced electronics or lighting.
Fuel Efficiency
The Bennington Quad Bench Pontoon, powered by a Yamaha 150 HP engine, offers around 4.0 MPG at cruising speeds. While you won’t be cruising at 25 MPH—more like 15 MPH—the ride is incredibly relaxing. The fuel tank is smaller compared to other boats, holding about 20 gallons.
Pricing
A new Bennington SV line Pontoon will cost you around $30k, which is quite reasonable. You can find a used 2020 model for around $20k. Search around Boat Shows for a good price.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable and spacious seating layout.
- Ideal for older passengers.
- Stable and smooth ride, even with a full load.
Cons:
- Not designed for speed or high-performance activities.
- Less suited for rough waters.
- Limited to calm lakes and rivers.
Final Verdict
If comfort, socializing, and relaxation are your top priorities, the Bennington Quad Bench Pontoon is the perfect boat for you. Its spacious and luxurious design makes it ideal for family outings, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying a peaceful day on the water. While it may not be the fastest boat around, its emphasis on comfort and enjoyment ensures that every outing is a memorable one.