Pontoon Boat Buying Tips

If you're excited about the possibility of having fun with family and friends, you’ll benefit from buying a sturdy and reliable boat. But before you rush out to purchase the first vessel you come across, hang on. You want to ensure you invest in the right boat for your needs.

Pontoon boats are a fantastic choice both for leisure boaters and watersports enthusiasts. These dependable vessels come outfitted with various features and amenities, meaning you can expect to enjoy your best possible time on the water. Here are a few strategies to help you select the perfect pontoon boat for your marine outings.

Consider the Size

Pontoon boats come in different sizes, ranging from small and compact vessels to large and spacious models. Your choice should depend on the number of passengers you hope will join you regularly and the activities you plan to engage in.

A small pontoon is more suitable for fishing trips and short cruises for two to four people, whereas a bigger model is more practical for larger groups.

Understand the Deck Space

The deck space of your pontoon boat should be large enough to accommodate all the activities you have in mind. If you plan to go fishing, consider vessels with larger rear deck space. Alternatively, if you intend to cruise until sunset, look for models with a larger front deck area—these are more suitable for sunbathing and watersports.

Think About the Engine Capacity

The engine capacity of your pontoon boat is another essential factor to consider. This determines the speed and horsepower of your vessel, and you want to ensure you pick the perfect one.

If you hope to use your boat for fishing or leisurely cruising on calm waters, a smaller engine with less horsepower will work. But if you’re keen on enjoying watersports or high-speed cruising, you'll want a larger engine with more horsepower.

Now that you are more familiar with pontoon boats, you are ready to explore a few of them in person. Visit Schnelker Marine & Powersports to explore our latest selection of pontoons. We proudly serve New Haven, Fort Wayne, and Auburn, IN, so swing by today.