Pontoon boats are a type of boat that is wider and slower than other types of boats. This makes them an excellent choice for leisure activities on lakes or rivers. In addition, they have a variety of deck plans, making them perfect for fishing, swimming, or simply relaxing in the sun.
Pontoon boats are motorized and can be used for a variety of purposes. You can use them to tow water toys or take your family on a cruise around the lake. Pontoon boats come in different sizes, depending on length and width. So no matter what you’re looking for in a boat, there’s sure to be a pontoon that fits your needs.
The Beam: Understanding the Width of a Pontoon Boat
When discussing the width of a pontoon boat, experts in the boating industry usually refer to the “beam.” The beam signifies the distance between the two outermost points of the boat. It plays a crucial role in determining a pontoon boat’s stability, capacity, and maneuverability on the water. A more substantial beam often ensures better performance in these aspects.
Benefits of Width in Pontoon Boats
Choosing a wider pontoon boat brings several advantages, which include better stability, increased deck space, and a higher load capacity. Beyond these standard benefits, there are also a few unique perks of opting for a more considerable pontoon boat width, such as:
- Greater accommodation: Wider pontoon boats can hold more passengers, making them perfect for large gatherings or events. Moreover, the extra size offers ample storage for gear, supplies, and personal items, ensuring a comfortable boating experience.
- Enhanced safety: Boats with larger beams are more stable, reducing the risk of capsizing or tilting during your water adventures. The added stability also improves safety during various activities, as passengers are less likely to lose balance or fall overboard while casting a line or skiing.
- Diversity in water activities: A wide beam in a pontoon boat gives you the versatility to engage in a wide range of water activities. The extra space is ideal for fishing, tubing, and water skiing, ensuring everyone on board has a fantastic time.
When considering a pontoon boat, it’s essential to understand how its beam impacts the overall boating experience. By being aware of the benefits that come with a larger beam, you can better determine the size that suits your needs and preferences.
Common Widths of Pontoon Boats
Pontoon boats can be categorized into three primary classifications based on their size, which directly correlates to their beam range: small, medium, and large. Each of these categories has distinct advantages and is suitable for different types of boating activities.
Small Pontoon Boats
Small pontoon boats typically feature a beam width of approximately 8 feet. This site caters to small groups and is perfect for navigating narrower waterways or exploring hidden coves. The smaller beam provides more maneuverability, making these boats easier to handle and dock in tight spaces. They are an excellent choice for a relaxed day of fishing or cruising with a few friends and family members.
Medium Pontoon Boats
Medium pontoon boats boast beams that range between 8 and 8.5 feet. Compared to small pontoon boats, the additional width provides extra deck space, allowing for more lavish amenities such as comfortable lounging areas, entertainment setups, or even wet bars. Aside from being suitable for group gatherings, these boats are also ideal for more adventurous water activities, offering a balance between the ease of navigation and extra space for better stability and comfort.
Large Pontoon Boats
Large pontoon boats are among the most luxurious and spacious options, featuring beams that often exceed 8.5 feet. The increased width provides ample room for passengers and gear, making them an excellent choice for larger gatherings, events, or day-long water excursions. Additionally, they offer the utmost stability, ensuring a smooth and safe experience even during rougher conditions or while engaging in water sports like water skiing or wakeboarding. However, the magnificent size of these boats may require more substantial storage and transportation capabilities.
FAQs
How wide are most Pontoon Boats?
Pontoon boats are typically between 8 and 12 feet wide, making them a popular choice for those who want a lot of space on the water. However, the size of the slip required for a pontoon boat depends on its width, so it’s essential to ensure you have the correct measurements before making your purchase. If you don’t have access to the company or person who made your pontoon boat, you can use a tape measure to determine its width. Most slips are between 8 ½ and 9 feet wide, so you’ll need to find a more significant drop if your pontoon boat is broader.
How wide is a 20 ft Pontoon Boat?
A 20-foot pontoon boat is typically 8 feet wide, but this can vary depending on the manufacturer. Therefore, it’s essential to research before buying a boat and checks the specifications of any manufacturer you are considering doing business with. The beam, or width from the boat’s widest point as measured at its waterline, is an important specification to consider when purchasing.
Most standard garage door sizes are 7 feet wide, which would be too narrow for a pontoon boat. However, most doors on pontoon boats are around 14 to 16 feet wide. You may need to work with the designer on custom measurements if you’re looking for something outside of that range, but in general, a 14 to 16 feet door is about average for a 20-foot pontoon boat.
Pontoon boats can be used for recreational and commercial purposes, and their width varies depending on their intended function. A 20 ft pontoon boat used for recreation may be narrower than one used commercially. So it’s essential to understand what you’ll use your pontoon boat for before making a purchase!
How do you measure a Pontoon Boat’s width?
Pontoon boats are becoming increasingly popular, but the size and shape can vary depending on the length. Pontoon boats are measured from the boat’s widest point, usually near the middle. All you need to do is take a 15 feet long tape measure and measure the boat from its widest point. Pontoon boats come in various lengths, from 18 to 22 feet long. Pontoon boat width will vary depending on manufacturer and model, but the guide provides a helpful guideline.
One of the most critical measurements of a pontoon boat is its width. A pontoon’s width will affect how it handles the water and how much space you have onboard. The deck provides space for people and activities, while the tube is more about performance. Although each pontoon boat is unique, they typically range from 8 to 12 feet wide. Keep this in mind when shopping for your perfect vessel! Some pontoon boats are significantly larger than others, so you must be aware of what you’re looking for before making a purchase.
Are most Pontoons the same width?
Pontoon boats come in all shapes and sizes, but most are around 8′ wide. This is because 90% of pre-2008 pontoons were this width. If you need something a little wider, don’t worry–some models are up to 12′ wide. However, these tend to be custom-made or more expensive than the standard pontoons. If you’re unsure what size pontoon boat you need, it’s best to ask a designer. They can help you determine the perfect width and length for your needs and budget.
What is the average Pontoon Boat deck size?
The average pontoon boat deck size is about 9′ x 20′. This is because most of the pontoons that are 8′ wide have a length of 18′, and many boats that are 10′ wide have a size of 22′ or 24′.
What is the standard Pontoon Boat height?
The average pontoon boat height is between 6′ and 8′, but many models are as low as 6′ or as high as 11′.