Pontoon boats offer a versatile and enjoyable platform for a variety of water activities, from fishing and swimming to simply relaxing with friends and family. To maximize your experience on the water, you can customize your pontoon with a range of DIY accessories. This article will guide you through several DIY pontoon boat accessories, including their benefits, estimated costs, and key specifications, helping you enhance your boat without breaking the bank.
1. Fishing Rod Holders
Overview
Fishing rod holders are essential for any pontoon boat if you enjoy fishing. They keep your rods organized and easily accessible, allowing you to focus on catching fish rather than managing your gear.
DIY Instructions
You can make rod holders using PVC pipes, which are durable, lightweight, and water-resistant. Simply cut the PVC pipes to your desired length, usually around 12-18 inches, and mount them to the side rails or any flat surface on your pontoon. Secure the holders with stainless steel clamps or bolts.
Cost
- PVC Pipe: $10-$20 for a 10-foot section.
- Clamps/Bolts: $5-$15.
Total Estimated Cost: $15-$35
Specs
- Material: PVC pipe (schedule 40)
- Dimensions: 12-18 inches in length, 1.5-2 inches in diameter
- Mounting Hardware: Stainless steel clamps or bolts
2. Custom Bimini Top Extension
Overview
A Bimini top extension provides additional shade on hot, sunny days, making your time on the water more comfortable. This DIY project involves extending your existing Bimini top with additional fabric and poles.
DIY Instructions
To create an extension, you’ll need marine-grade fabric, aluminum poles, and mounting brackets. Measure the area you’d like to cover, cut the fabric to size, and sew hems along the edges. Attach the fabric to the existing Bimini top using zippers or Velcro strips, and secure the poles to the deck with mounting brackets.
Cost
- Marine-Grade Fabric: $50-$100
- Aluminum Poles: $30-$50
- Mounting Brackets: $20-$30
Total Estimated Cost: $100-$180
Specs
- Material: Marine-grade fabric (UV-resistant)
- Dimensions: Customizable to fit your boat
- Poles: Aluminum, 1-inch diameter
- Mounting Hardware: Stainless steel brackets
3. DIY BBQ Grill Mount
Overview
A BBQ grill on your pontoon boat can make a day on the water even more enjoyable. A DIY grill mount allows you to cook meals directly on the boat, turning any trip into a floating picnic.
DIY Instructions
For this project, use a small propane grill and create a mount using a metal bracket or stainless steel tubing. Attach the bracket securely to the boat’s railing or a stable surface, ensuring it can hold the weight of the grill. For added safety, consider installing a heat shield to protect the boat’s surface from the grill’s heat.
Cost
- Propane Grill: $50-$150
- Metal Bracket: $20-$40
- Heat Shield Material: $15-$30
Total Estimated Cost: $85-$220
Specs
- Grill: Propane, portable, stainless steel construction
- Mounting Bracket: Stainless steel, adjustable
- Heat Shield: Aluminum or stainless steel sheet
4. Underwater LED Lights
Overview
Adding underwater LED lights to your pontoon boat creates an eye-catching ambiance during night cruises and improves visibility for nighttime swimming and fishing.
DIY Instructions
Purchase waterproof LED strips or pods and mount them along the boat’s underside. Connect the lights to a 12V power source, typically the boat’s battery, and install a switch for easy control. Ensure all connections are sealed and waterproofed to prevent electrical shorts.
Cost
- Waterproof LED Lights: $30-$100
- Wiring and Switch: $15-$25
- Waterproof Sealant: $10-$20
Total Estimated Cost: $55-$145
Specs
- LED Lights: Waterproof, 12V, RGB or single color
- Length: 10-20 feet (depending on boat size)
- Power Source: Boat battery, 12V
5. Removable Deck Carpet
Overview
Adding a removable deck carpet to your pontoon boat enhances comfort underfoot and protects the deck from wear and tear. This DIY accessory is particularly useful for families with children or pets.
DIY Instructions
Cut marine-grade carpet to fit your pontoon’s deck, leaving a small margin for securing it in place. Use heavy-duty Velcro strips along the edges to attach the carpet to the deck, allowing you to remove it easily for cleaning or storage.
Cost
- Marine-Grade Carpet: $100-$200
- Velcro Strips: $10-$20
Total Estimated Cost: $110-$220
Specs
- Material: Marine-grade carpet (UV and water-resistant)
- Dimensions: Customizable to fit your deck
- Attachment: Heavy-duty Velcro strips
6. Homemade Anchor Buddy
Overview
An anchor buddy helps to reduce the strain on your boat’s anchor line by absorbing shocks from waves and wakes. You can easily make one using bungee cord and marine-grade rope.
DIY Instructions
Take a length of bungee cord (around 20-30 feet) and secure it to a section of marine-grade rope. Attach one end to the anchor and the other to the boat. The bungee cord will stretch under tension, absorbing shocks and keeping the boat more stable.
Cost
- Bungee Cord: $20-$30
- Marine-Grade Rope: $15-$25
Total Estimated Cost: $35-$55
Specs
- Bungee Cord: 20-30 feet, UV-resistant
- Marine-Grade Rope: 3/8-inch diameter, 10-15 feet
7. DIY Privacy Curtain
Overview
A privacy curtain is a practical accessory for changing clothes, using a portable toilet, or simply taking a break from the sun. This DIY project is simple and inexpensive.
DIY Instructions
Purchase marine-grade fabric and cut it to your desired size. Sew hems along the edges and install curtain rings or grommets at the top. Attach the curtain to a retractable shower rod or a custom-made frame that you can install and remove as needed.
Cost
- Marine-Grade Fabric: $20-$40
- Shower Rod/Frame: $15-$30
- Curtain Rings/Grommets: $5-$10
Total Estimated Cost: $40-$80
Specs
- Material: Marine-grade fabric, UV and water-resistant
- Dimensions: Customizable to fit your needs
- Mounting: Retractable shower rod or custom frame
Conclusion
Customizing your pontoon boat with DIY accessories not only enhances your boating experience but also adds a personal touch to your vessel. Whether you’re looking to improve functionality, comfort, or aesthetics, these DIY projects are cost-effective ways to upgrade your boat. With a little creativity and some basic tools, you can transform your pontoon into the perfect platform for all your water-based activities.
Happy Boating!
Share DIY Pontoon Boat Accessories: Enhancing Boating Experience with your friends and leave a comment below with your thoughts.
Read 2013 Sun Tracker Pontoon Value: A Comprehensive Guide until we meet in the next article.