Pontoon Boats with Heads: The Convenience of Comfort
Pontoon boats are known for their spacious layouts, comfortable seating, and relaxed cruising experience. But for some boaters, the lack of onboard restroom facilities, also known as “heads” in nautical terms, can be a deterrent to longer excursions or outings with families. Fear not! Many pontoon boat manufacturers now offer models with built-in heads, providing the convenience and privacy needed for a truly enjoyable day on the water.
The Allure of Pontoon Boats with Heads:
- Extended Adventures: A head onboard eliminates the need for frequent pit stops back to shore, allowing you to explore further, enjoy longer getaways, and maximize your time on the water.
- Family Friendly: For families with young children or anyone who might need to use the restroom during a day trip, a head provides a convenient and private solution.
- Enhanced Comfort: Let’s face it, having a head onboard simply adds another layer of comfort and convenience to your pontoon boating experience.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Pontoon Boat with a Head:
- Head Location and Size: Pontoon boats with heads typically place them in the console area or behind a rear seat. The size of the head will vary depending on the overall size of the boat. Larger pontoons might offer more spacious heads with additional features like sinks and storage.
- Waste Disposal System: There are two main types of waste disposal systems used in pontoon boat heads:
- Porta-Potti: These portable toilets are a simple and cost-effective solution for smaller boats. They require emptying and cleaning after each use.
- Marine Sanitation Devices (MSDs): These permanent fixtures hold waste in a tank that needs to be pumped out at designated waste disposal stations. MSDs offer a more convenient and sanitary option but require additional maintenance and potential permitting depending on your location.
- Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is crucial in any onboard head. Look for models with opening hatches or vents to ensure proper airflow.
Benefits and Trade-Offs:
Benefits:
- Increased comfort and convenience
- Enables longer trips and exploration
- Family-friendly feature
- Enhances resale value (in some cases)
Trade-Offs:
- Higher initial cost compared to pontoon boats without heads
- Reduced deck space due to the head compartment
- Additional maintenance (emptying porta-potti or maintaining MSD)
Popular Pontoon Boats with Heads:
Here are a few examples of pontoon boat manufacturers that offer models with heads:
- Bennington: Offers a variety of models with built-in heads, including their popular pontoon and tritoon series.
- Sylvan: Known for their feature-rich pontoons, many Sylvan models come with optional head compartments.
- Premier Pontoons: The luxurious Escalante series from Premier Pontoons boasts spacious layouts that can incorporate well-appointed head compartments.
Making the Choice:
Ultimately, the decision of whether to get a pontoon boat with a head depends on your individual needs and boating style. If you value comfort, convenience, and plan on extended outings, a head might be a worthwhile investment. However, if your boating is limited to shorter day trips or your budget is a major concern, a pontoon boat without a head might still be the perfect option.
The Final Splash:
Pontoon boats with heads offer a compelling combination of comfort, convenience, and functionality. By considering your needs, researching available models, and weighing the benefits and trade-offs, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your pontoon boating experience for years to come. So, set sail with confidence, knowing that a restroom facility is just a short step away!
Happy Boating!
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Read Setting Sail from Miami to Cuba: A Traveler’s Guide until we meet in the next article.
