Buying your first pontoon boat is an exciting step toward a more relaxing, adventurous life on the water. But with so many options out there, it can also feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this pontoon boat buying guide on the features that truly matter for first-time pontoon owners. Whether you’re planning to cruise Lake Hopatcong or entertain family and friends, here are 5 key features to look for.
Key takeaways: Buying Your First Pontoon Boat? 5 Key Features to Look For
1. Layout: Choose a floor plan that fits your boating lifestyle – entertaining, fishing, water sports, or all of the above.
2. Amenities and Upgrades: Prioritize comfort and convenience with onboard features that make your time on the water enjoyable.
3. Performance and Handling: Match the engine and handling capabilities with how you plan to use your boat, from cruising to tubing.
4. Maintenance and Durability: Look for quality construction and easy-to-clean materials. Bonus tip: Partner with a marina that makes service simple!
5. Pontoon vs. Triple Toon: Understand the difference between two-tube and three-tube designs to choose the right balance of speed, stability, and budget for your needs.
1. A Layout That Suits Your Lifestyle
Pontoon boats come in a variety of floor plans. Some are perfect for lounging or entertaining, while others are designed for fishing, water sports, and more.
If you’re envisioning relaxed cruises or entertaining family and friends, look for a cruise-focused layout with wraparound lounge seating, a removable table, and an open deck design for socializing.
Families who love watersports may enjoy a rear-facing lounge layout or a model with easy swim platform access and extra storage for tow ropes and gear.
Or for anglers seeking to cast out on quiet mornings, a fishing-friendly layout with swivel chairs, rod holders, and built-in livewells might be a better investment.
When searching for your perfect pontoon, consider how you’ll use the space and find a layout that matches your vision.
Here at Bridge Marina, we offer a wide array of Starcraft Pontoon styles to choose from. See our lineup of new and quality pre-owned pontoons designed for comfort and ease here.
Check out our guide on what to look for in your pontoon seating and layout with the video below.
2. Amenities and Upgrade Options
For a first-time pontoon owner, comfort is key. If you plan on doing a lot of entertaining, look for features like spacious storage, a BBQ grill, and other features that will keep you and your guests happy. For swimmers, amenities like changing rooms and easy boarding ladders can also make a big difference. And, for boaters who love music, a Bluetooth stereo system is a must-have to upgrade your onboard entertainment and keep the playlist going all day long!
The right setup and amenities on your pontoon can make or break your boating experience – so choose wisely!
Want to get more out of your time on the water while also increasing your pontoon’s overall value? Here are 5 must-have upgrades for your pontoon’s comfort and resale value.
3. Engine Performance and Handling
Engine performance plays a major role in how your pontoon handles on the water. But choosing the right horsepower doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The ideal engine for you depends on what you plan to do with your boat most of the time, how many people you’ll have aboard, and the size of the pontoon itself.
If you see yourself cruising comfortably with a few guests, a lower horsepower engine might be just right. But if you want to tow tubes, bring a full crew along, or reach higher speeds, you may want to consider bumping up to a 150HP engine or more – especially if you’re looking at a larger boat or a triple pontoon.
Many new pontoons now come equipped with fuel-efficient, quiet engines that are beginner-friendly and reliable.
If you’re buying your first pontoon boat and are looking for guidance on finding the right horsepower, read our blog on Pontoon Boats vs. Horsepower here.
4. Easy Maintenance and Durability
Low maintenance means more time enjoying the water and less time worrying about upkeep. Look for pontoons with durable vinyl flooring, easily accessible components like the battery, and materials and surfaces that are easy to clean and built to last. A sturdy, well-made boat not only saves time but also maintains its value down the line.
At Bridge Marina, we make it simple to care for your pontoon with expert services like winterization, recommissioning, and routine maintenance. Our service team is here to help keep your boat running smoothly so you can focus on enjoying your boat, not fixing it. Don’t miss our boat service tips with our videos here!
5. Pontoon vs. Triple Toon: What’s the Difference?
If you’re buying your first pontoon boat, you’ve likely seen the terms standard pontoon, triple toon (or tritoon), and two and three-quarter toon pop up in your search. While they may look similar at first glance, the difference in performance and handling can be significant.
Standard Pontoon Boats
A standard pontoon has two tubes beneath the deck and is ideal for relaxed cruising with a small group. It’s typically more budget-friendly and fuel-efficient, making it a great choice for those who prioritize simplicity and ease of use.
Triple Pontoon Boats
On the other hand, a triple toon features three full-length tubes, offering increased stability, higher weight capacity, and the ability to handle more powerful engines. That means better performance, smoother rides at higher speeds, and more versatility for watersports or entertaining a larger group. See our video on identifying a triple pontoon below!
Two and Three-Quarter Pontoon Boats
Two and three-quarter toons have a shorter center tube that doesn’t run the full length of the boat. This configuration offers a balance of improved handling and fuel efficiency. It’s a great fit for boaters focused on relaxed cruising, fishing, and family outings at a more budget-friendly price point.
Learn more about the differences between standard and triple toons here or the differences between triple toons and two and three-quarter toons here.
Not Sure If You’re Ready to Buy a Pontoon Boat?
Find Your Right Fit with Bridge Marina Boating Club or Daily Boat Rentals on Lake Hopatcong or Highlands
Still debating if buying a pontoon boat is right for you? You don’t need to commit to buying a boat to enjoy the water! Try before you buy as a Bridge Marina Boating Club member or a daily boat rental guest.
At Bridge Marina, we offer a premium fleet of triple pontoon boats for rent on Lake Hopatcong and Highlands. Those looking to explore the boating lifestyle even further choose to join our Boating Club, where members enjoy access to a pristine fleet of Starcraft Marine triple pontoons, Four Winns bowriders, and Wellcraft center console boats. Both our boat rental and Boating Club options help our boating guests find their perfect boating fit before making a boat purchase.
Learn more about the perks of joining Bridge Marina Boating Club here!
Expert Guidance for First-Time Buyers from Bridge Marina
As a Certified Starcraft Marine pontoon dealer, we have years of experience in providing expert guidance and a full lineup of premium pontoons. Our team is here to help you navigate all your layout, performance, and customization options to select a model that suits your specific needs.
Browse our inventory of new and pre-owned boats for sale in New Jersey here.
Need a Hand with Buying Your First Pontoon Boat? We Make the Process Simple and Stress-Free
Choosing the right pontoon doesn’t have to be stressful. Our team is here to help you take the first step and guide you through your boating journey, wherever it ends up taking you!
Whether you’re ready to buy or still exploring your options, reach out to us by filling out this quick form or call us at (973) 663-1976.
We look forward to helping you get on the water!