Choosing a Pontoon Boat Size to Fit Your Needs 

Discover how to choose the perfect pontoon boat size for your needs. Explore standard widths, capacities, and features to find the ideal boat for fun on the water.

Pontoon boats are a versatile and popular choice for water enthusiasts, offering a stable platform for fishing, watersports, lounging, or hosting gatherings with family and friends. Selecting the right pontoon boat size is critical to ensuring your boating experience aligns with your needs, whether you’re navigating calm lakes or hosting large parties on open waters. A key factor in this decision is the boat’s width, or beam, which impacts storage, onboard space, and passenger capacity. This comprehensive guide explores pontoon boat sizes, focusing on width, capacity, and intended use, to help you make an informed purchase. We’ll also highlight specifications and pricing for select models to provide a clear picture of what’s available.

Understanding Pontoon Boat Width

The width of a pontoon boat, referred to as the beam, is a defining characteristic that influences its functionality. The beam affects how much interior space is available, how many people the boat can comfortably carry, and where it can be stored or towed. Most pontoon boats have a beam ranging from 7 to 12 feet, with the standard width being around 8 to 10 feet. The exact width depends on the boat’s length, manufacturer, and intended purpose.

Why Width Matters

• Storage: A wider boat requires more dock or trailer space, which may not suit smaller docks or towing vehicles.
• Interior Space: A broader beam provides more deck space for seating, lounging, or equipment storage.
• Passenger Capacity: Wider boats can accommodate more people, making them ideal for larger groups.
• Stability: A larger beam enhances stability, especially in rough waters, but may reduce maneuverability in tight spaces.

To choose the right width, consider where you’ll store the boat, how many passengers you plan to carry, and the type of water you’ll navigate.

Pontoon Boat Size Categories

Pontoon boats are generally categorized into small, medium, and large sizes based on their length and width. Each category serves different purposes, from solo fishing trips to hosting large gatherings. Below, we break down the standard sizes, their widths, and their ideal uses.

Small Pontoon Boats (15–20 Feet)

Small pontoon boats, typically 15 to 20 feet in length, have a beam of 7 to 8 feet. These compact vessels are designed for small groups or solo adventurers and are best suited for calm, shallow waters like small lakes or rivers.

• Width: 7–8 feet
• Passenger Capacity: Up to 6–8 people
• Best For: Fishing, casual cruises, or small family outings
• Advantages:
  • Easy to tow and store due to compact size
  • Maneuverable in tight waterways
  • Cost-effective, with lower purchase and maintenance costs
• Limitations:
  • Limited deck space for larger groups
  • Less stable in rough waters
  • Minimal storage for gear

Example Model: Pond King Mini Pontoon Boats

• Sizes Available: 6–16 feet
• Width: 7–8 feet
• Features: Welded aluminum subframes, heavy-gauge pontoons, customizable options for fishing
• Price: Varies based on customization (contact manufacturer for details)

Small pontoon boats are ideal for individuals or small families who enjoy intimate outings or fishing in calm waters. Their narrow beam makes them easy to tow with smaller vehicles and store in limited spaces.

Medium Pontoon Boats (18–24 Feet)

Medium-sized pontoon boats, ranging from 18 to 24 feet, are the most popular choice due to their versatility. With a beam of 8 to 10 feet, these boats strike a balance between space, stability, and maneuverability.

• Width: 8–10 feet
• Passenger Capacity: Up to 10–13 people
• Best For: Family outings, group gatherings, watersports, or fishing on lakes and rivers
• Advantages:
  • Spacious deck for socializing and activities
  • Suitable for moderate waves
  • Ample storage for gear and coolers
• Limitations:
  • Requires a larger trailer and towing vehicle
  • May not fit in smaller docks or storage spaces

Example Model: 2025 PARTY BARGE® 18 DLX

Key Features:

• 9-foot Bimini top with LED lights
• Wet Sounds® stereo with 2 speakers
• Three lounge couches with under-seat storage
• Wheelchair-accessible port gate
• Full-width aft swim platform with telescoping ladder

Example Model: 2025 PARTY BARGE® 20 DLX

Key Features:

• STOW MORE™ seat-back storage system
• Reclining captain’s chair with self-leveling armrests
• Wet Sounds® stereo with 4 speakers
• 9-foot QuickLift™ Bimini top
• Aft swim deck with telescoping ladder

Medium pontoon boats are perfect for families or groups looking to enjoy a variety of activities, from fishing to watersports, on lakes or rivers with moderate conditions.

Large Pontoon Boats (25–30 Feet)

Large pontoon boats, measuring 25 to 30 feet, have a beam of 8.5 to 12 feet or more. These boats are designed for large groups and can handle rougher waters, making them suitable for open lakes or coastal areas.

• Width: 8.5–12+ feet
• Passenger Capacity: Up to 15–25 people
• Best For: Large parties, watersports, or cruising in rough waters
• Advantages:
  • Spacious deck for entertaining large groups
  • High stability in choppy conditions
  • Ample storage for gear and amenities
• Limitations:
  • Requires significant storage space and a heavy-duty trailer
  • Higher fuel and maintenance costs
  • Less maneuverable in tight spaces

Example Model: Bennington R Series

• Length: 25–30 feet
• Width: 8.5–10 feet
• Passenger Capacity: Up to 15 people
• Key Features: Premium upholstery, advanced electronics, customizable layouts for watersports or lounging
• Price: Varies (contact Bennington dealer for details)

Large pontoon boats are ideal for hosting big gatherings or engaging in watersports like wakeboarding and tubing, especially in larger bodies of water.

Double-Decker Pontoon Boats

Double-decker pontoon boats, available on select models like Bennington’s SX and L Series, add an upper deck for extra space. These boats typically have a standard width of 8.5 feet and are available in small to mid-size lengths.

• Width: 8.5 feet
• Passenger Capacity: Varies (typically 10–13 people)
• Best For: Sunbathing, lounging, or sliding into the water
• Advantages:
  • Additional deck space for relaxation
  • Unique design for shade and fun
• Limitations:
  • Increased height may not fit under low bridges
  • Higher cost due to added features

Note: Always check the height clearance for bridges or structures when considering a double-decker model, as the top deck cannot be lowered.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pontoon Boat Size

Selecting the right pontoon boat involves more than just picking a size category. Several factors influence the ideal size and width for your needs:

1. Towing and Storage

Before purchasing, ensure your vehicle can tow the boat and trailer, and that your dock or storage space can accommodate the boat’s dimensions. A pontoon boat’s total length includes the outboard motor (adding 2–3 feet), and the width must fit within your trailer or dock.

• Towing: Check your vehicle’s towing capacity against the combined weight of the boat and trailer. For example, the PARTY BARGE® 18 DLX has an average package weight of 2,965 lbs, while the 20 DLX weighs 3,745 lbs.
• Storage: Measure your dock or storage area to ensure the boat’s width (e.g., 8 feet 2 inches for the 18 DLX) and length fit comfortably.

2. Passenger Capacity

Consider how many people you’ll typically carry. Small boats (15–20 feet) suit 6–8 passengers, medium boats (18–24 feet) handle 10–13, and large boats (25–30 feet) accommodate 15–25. Always check the capacity sticker near the captain’s chair and distribute weight evenly to maintain stability.

3. Location and Water Conditions

The size of the body of water dictates the appropriate boat size:

• Small, Calm Waters: Small pontoons (15–20 feet) are agile and suitable for shallow lakes or rivers.
• Lakes or Rivers with Moderate Waves: Medium pontoons (18–24 feet) offer a balance of stability and maneuverability.
• Large Lakes or Coastal Waters: Large pontoons (25–30 feet) provide stability in rough conditions.

Check local regulations, as some areas restrict boat sizes or types.

4. Intended Activities

Your planned activities determine the boat’s features and size:

• Fishing: Small boats (15–20 feet) suffice for casual fishing, while serious anglers may prefer 22-foot models with ample storage.
• Watersports: Activities like wakeboarding or water skiing require a boat with at least a 90 HP motor, often found on medium or large models.
• Lounging: Prioritize deck space and comfortable seating, available in medium or large boats with wide beams.

5. Budget

Larger boats with wider beams and more features come with higher price tags. For example, the PARTY BARGE® 18 DLX starts at $28,395, while the 20 DLX is $30,995. Factor in maintenance, fuel, and storage costs when budgeting.

Pontoon Boat Width Comparison Chart

To visualize the relationship between pontoon boat sizes and their widths, refer to the following chart:

Specifications and Pricing Table

Modern Pontoon Boat Design Trends

In the past, pontoon boat lengths were often dictated by standard decking sizes (e.g., 4-foot increments), with pontoons extending beyond the deck. Modern designs have evolved:

• Extended Decks: Manufacturers now cut decking to custom lengths, allowing decks to match or exceed pontoon lengths for maximum usable space.
• elevada fence panels for better drainage and ventilation.
• Advanced Materials: Boats like the PARTY BARGE® series use 0.080 5052 marine alloy for pontoon logs and UV-resistant upholstery for durability.
• Enhanced Features: Features like Wet Sounds® stereos, touchscreen displays, and wheelchair-accessible gates improve functionality and comfort.

These advancements ensure modern pontoon boats maximize space and usability, regardless of width.

Tips for Choosing Your Pontoon Boat

1. Assess Your Needs: Determine how many passengers you’ll carry, where you’ll boat, and what activities you’ll do.
2. Measure Storage Space: Ensure your dock or storage area accommodates the boat’s width and length.
3. Check Towing Capacity: Verify your vehicle can handle the boat and trailer’s combined weight.
4. Test Drive: Work with a dealer like Bennington or SUN TRACKER to test different sizes and layouts.
5. Consider Upgrades: Features like Bimini tops, stereos, or watersport tow pylons enhance the experience but may increase costs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pontoon boat size is about balancing width, capacity, and intended use. Small boats (7–8 feet wide) are perfect for intimate outings on calm waters, medium boats (8–10 feet wide) offer versatility for families, and large boats (8.5–12+ feet wide) cater to big groups and rough waters. Double-decker models add unique space but require height clearance. By considering towing, storage, location, and activities, you can find a pontoon boat that fits your lifestyle. Models like the PARTY BARGE® 18 DLX and 20 DLX provide excellent starting points with modern features and competitive pricing. Contact a reputable dealer like Bennington or SUN TRACKER to explore options and build your perfect boat.

Happy Boating!

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