Being a first-time boat buyer with so many pontoon boats on the market can be overwhelming at first. Let yourself have fun with the boat buying process. Spend an afternoon using online platforms that let you build your own pontoon boat to help you visualize your life on the water.
Here are ten questions to help make the decision-making process smooth and easy.
Before you buy a pontoon boat
Take some time to envision your life on the water so you know what you’ll need in a boat before you visit a pontoon dealership. Then, ask yourself a few basic questions.
1. What will I use my pontoon for?
Knowing how you’ll use your boat and how many people you’ll usually invite will help you choose from pontoon features, floorplans, and upgrades. Short quizzes like Find Your Pontoon Boat Match are a great place to get started.
2. Should I get a pontoon or a tritoon?
Choosing between a pontoon or a tritoon boat is a great starting point. A two-tube pontoon may be perfect for the boater who enjoys relaxing on a calm lake, while a three-tube pontoon (tritoon) gives watersport lovers more stability and horsepower.
3. Where can I find a pontoon dealer near me?
You can find pontoon dealers near you online. Read reviews and check out their virtual showrooms to choose which dealership to contact.
What to ask your pontoon dealer
Before you head to the dealership, learn a bit about pontoon boat terminology so you can converse with the dealer knowledgably. Then go in armed with these questions.
4. What types of pontoon flooring are available?
Pontoon boat flooring options range from vinyl to woven teak vinyl to fulfill any design vision. Your dealer will let you see and feel the pontoon flooring options to help you choose what’s best for you.
5. What pontoon performance upgrades are available?
Your dealer will help you compare pontoon performance packages to figure out what’s best to satisfy your need for speed.
6. How do I winterize my pontoon boat?
The dealer will likely know the area and be able to give you tips on handling winterization and pontoon storage locally.
7. How do I get my pontoon ready for boating season?
Preparing your pontoon for boating season for the first time may seem daunting. Your dealer can walk you through the process in detail.
8. What is the pontoon boat warranty?
The dealer can help you compare the pontoon boat warranties of the models you’re interested in. Harris offers a 10 Year Bow-to-Stern Warranty in addition to a Limited Lifetime Structural Warranty.
9. How difficult is pontoon boat maintenance on this model?
There may be some projects you can tackle yourself like changing the oil, but some may be best left for the pros. Your dealer can help you understand the pontoon boat maintenance of each model.
10. What is the best outboard motor for my pontoon boat?
Your dealer can help you decide how much horsepower you need based on how you’ll use your pontoon.
Shop for a pontoon boat
Now you’re ready to shop for a pontoon boat! Print or download A Beginner’s Guide to Buying a Pontoon. This pontoon boat shopping guide gives you three simple steps to follow so you can get on the water with a new pontoon—and without the stress.
