Pontoon boats were something we never thought we’d love—until we took my parents out, and everything changed. It’s a completely different experience compared to traditional deep-V hull boats. With a flat platform that barely sways, pontoon boats offer unmatched stability. They’re incredibly comfortable, with open spaces for relaxing, and provide a new way to enjoy the water. Below, we’ll dive into some great accessories, key upgrades, and where you can rent a pontoon boat without needing to buy one.
Pontoon Boat Accessories
One of the best aspects of pontoon boats is the ability to customize your setup. From added comfort to entertainment options, these accessories enhance your time on the water. Make sure to get on these boats at some boat shows.
Must-Have Pontoon Boat Accessories:
- Cooler: Keeping drinks and snacks cold on a hot day is essential, and a good cooler is a must-have for any trip.
- Floating Key Chain: You’ll want a floating key chain to keep your keys from sinking—useful for any type of boat.
- Throw Bag: Safety is always a priority, and a throw bag can be a life-saver in case of an emergency.
- Grill: A mounted grill lets you enjoy a barbecue right on your boat—perfect for family outings.
- Diving Board: A fun addition for families, kids will love having a diving board on board.
- First Aid Kit: Be prepared for emergencies with a well-stocked first aid kit.
- Boat Trash Can: Ditch the garbage bags! A proper trash can keeps your boat clean and organized.
- Umbrella: Extra shade is always welcome. Portable umbrellas fit easily on a pontoon boat.
- Bluetooth Speaker: Bluetooth speakers allow you to bring your music on the water, even while swimming.
Pontoon Boat Fishing Accessories
Pontoon boats aren’t just for relaxation—they’re also good at fishing. They don’t come with many accessories for a fisherman, so here’s our top picks.
Top Fishing Accessories for Pontoon Boats:
- Rod Holders: Keep your rods secure and organized while you fish.
- Tackle Storage: Dedicated storage boxes keep your fishing gear organized and easy to access.
- Fish Finder: Find out why your not catching anything, good fish finder will come in handy.
- Fish Cooler: A separate cooler for your catch keeps your fish fresh until you’re ready to head home.
Pontoon Boat Upgrades
As you spend more time on your pontoon boat, you might want to consider upgrades to improve performance and comfort. From enhancing speed to increasing convenience, these upgrades can take your boat to the next level.
Best Upgrades for Pontoon Boats:
- Engine Upgrades: Boost horsepower for faster cruising or better towing performance for watersports.
- LED Lighting: Deck and underwater LED lights add ambiance and visibility for evening trips.
- Advanced Navigation Systems: Upgrade to a GPS-enabled navigation system for easier route planning and enhanced safety. We recommend Navionics, which you can conveniently use on your phone.
- Anchor: A reliable anchor is essential for keeping your boat anchored, whether you’re fishing or just relaxing.
- Anchor Winch: An automatic anchor winch saves time and effort when deploying or retrieving your anchor.
- Bimini Top: If you don’t already have one, a bimini top is practically mandatory for Florida boating, providing crucial shade on sunny days.
- Tow Bar: For pulling tubes, wakeboards, or skis, a tow bar is a must-have for fun watersports activities.
Pontoon Boat Rentals Near Me
Highly suggest using a pontoon before buying, renting is a great way to experience before you buy. Plenty of options to rent for half a day or full day, letting you enjoy the water without the responsibilities of ownership.
How to Find Pontoon Boat Rentals Near You:
- BoatFlorida: Well-maintained pontoon boats available for four-hour blocks.
- St. Johns Premier Boat Rentals: Rentals come fully equipped with a paddleboard, floating platform, towable raft, games, Bluetooth stereo, and include gas and insurance.
- Beaches Marina: Offers a variety of boats, including wave runners and fishing boats.
- Freedom Boat Club: My top recommendation. A membership lets you take out pontoon boats as many times as you like, and the cost monthly is similar to renting a boat.
Freedom Boat Club Pontoon Boats
As a member of the Freedom Boat Club, you get access to a fleet of pontoon boats without having to worry about maintenance or storage. It’s a hassle-free way to enjoy different boat models and the perks of boating.
Benefits of Freedom Boat Club Pontoon Boats:
- Cost: The monthly membership is comparable to renting a pontoon boat, making it a solid choice for trying out boats.
- Variety: In addition to pontoon boats, members can also enjoy center consoles, deck boats, and bowriders.
- No Cleanup: You don’t have to worry about washing down the boat after each use.
- No Maintenance: No boat ownership means no maintenance costs or upkeep, leaving more time for fun.
Who Are Pontoon Boats For?
Pontoon boats are ideal for families, casual boaters, and those looking for a stable, comfortable ride. They’re especially great for people who prefer a relaxed pace on the water.
Who Enjoys Pontoon Boats:
- Families: Spacious decks and plenty of seating make them perfect for family outings.
- Water Sports Enthusiasts: With enough horsepower, pontoons can pull tubes, wakeboards, and skis.
- Young and Elderly: Their stable platform makes pontoon boats safe and comfortable for all ages.
- Easy to Drive: Pontoon boats are beginner-friendly, with smooth handling and easy maneuverability.
- Relaxed Cruising: Perfect for those who prefer leisurely days on the water, anchoring to enjoy a picnic or simply relaxing.
Best Pontoon Boat Brands and Manufacturers
When it comes to buying a pontoon boat, selecting the right brand is key. Top manufacturers offer reliable, high-quality boats that meet a variety of needs, from fishing to luxury cruising.
Top Pontoon Boat Brands:
- Bennington: Known for luxury, Bennington offers high-end pontoon boats with premium features—our top pick.
- Sun Tracker: A family favorite, Sun Tracker boats are affordable and packed with great features.
- Harris: Offering models from entry-level to luxury, Harris makes it easy to find the right pontoon boat for your budget.
- Manitou: Performance-focused, Manitou pontoons can handle higher speeds and more demanding water conditions.
Conclusion
Pontoon boats provide a unique and enjoyable boating experience for all kinds of water lovers. With plenty of accessories, upgrades, and rental options, you can easily customize your time on the water, whether you’re relaxing, fishing, or enjoying watersports. Whether you rent or join a club like Freedom Boat Club, pontoon boats offer a stable, comfortable ride that’s perfect for family outings, parties, and more.