Thread: lake level
View Single Post
Old 08-18-2025, 05:14 PM   #18
TiltonBB
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2005
Location: Gilford, NH and Florida
Posts: 3,054
Thanks: 726
Thanked 2,231 Times in 952 Posts
Default Pontoon

As with any boat, what you buy depends upon how you plan to use it. I have had several pontoon boats and what was most important to me was seating and room. 26 Feet and 300 HP is fine, even when loaded up. I wanted room for family and friends.

The flip back and forth seat backs didn't seem too useful and sinks and bar stools weren't too appealing either. The two Captain's chairs were something that was important. I have never wanted any boat where the left front seat is a bench that faces backwards.

We take them to Florida in the winter and often take 3 other couples out with us. The boats never seem crowded. Even going out on the Gulf from Marco Island to Sanibel has never been and issue and I am surprised at how good the ride is. They are very stable. In my experience they use a lot less fuel than an I/O too.

Other than the ride the biggest difference with a V hull boat is the lack of a full windshield and no real ability to close the front wind off while underway. So, early or late in the NH summer season you have to dress a little warmer some days.

(Last winter I towed to Miami, spent a couple of days, and went in and out of the Haulover Inlet. If you know, you know! )
Attached Images
  
TiltonBB is offline   Reply With Quote
The Following User Says Thank You to TiltonBB For This Useful Post: