If you’re in the market for a pontoon boat, then you know that one of the most important considerations when choosing your perfect vessel is deciding on the right size. But with so many options available, it can be hard to know which size is best for your needs. Whether you’re looking for something compact or large, this guide will help you make an informed decision and get the boat that’s just right for your needs. 

You’ve decided you want a pontoon boat, but don’t know which size to get. How long should the boat be? How much weight can it carry? What type of pontoon trailer should you use? With so many options to consider, it can seem overwhelming. Don’t worry—we’re here to help answer all your pontoon boat questions! 

When it comes to finding the perfect pontoon boat, size matters. Whether you’re looking for something small and nimble, large pontoon boats or a pontoon boat trailer understanding the size of your pontoon boat is key to ensuring you get the most out of your boat. From length to weight to storage space and more, let’s look at why size is an important consideration when it comes to picking the right pontoon boat for you. 

How to Choose a Pontoon Boat Size 

The overall pontoon boat length includes its deck length and the length of its pontoon tubes. The deck length will give you an idea of how much storage space and seating capacity you’ll have onboard. For instance, if you plan to bring along a lot of people or want plenty of room for water sports like tubing or wakeboarding, then a longer deck length may be best. On the other hand, if you’re mostly interested in calm waters cruising or fishing trips with only two or three people, then a shorter deck may do just fine. 

When it comes to pontoon tubes, larger pontoons are better suited for open waters with larger waves, as they provide more stability and buoyancy than smaller ones. So if rough waters are on your agenda, then bigger pontoon tubes are likely your best bet. Smaller pontoons can work well too but may not provide enough stability when traversing choppy waters at high speeds (which is why most popular models feature mid-sized pontoons). Of course, larger boats also require a larger fuel tank and outboard motor than smaller boats—not to mention stronger trailers capable of carrying much more weight—so keep these factors in mind when making your choice. 

Finally, another important consideration is the size of your tow vehicle—especially if you plan on taking long distances trips with your new pontoon boat in tow! A single axle trailer is typically ideal for small boats while tandem axle trailers are best suited to vessels measuring over 24 feet in overall length. It’s always a good idea to confirm that your tow vehicle can handle whatever trailer and boat combination you ultimately decide upon before making any final decisions. 

The length of a pontoon boat depends on how much space you need and what activities you plan to do with the boat. If you plan on using your boat for fishing or cruising around calm waters, then a small pontoon boat may be more than enough for your needs. Smaller pontoons are typically between 12 and 20 feet in overall length and come with single or double tube lengths ranging from 7 to 10 feet. Small pontoon boats usually have an open deck with limited storage space and can accommodate up to 6 people comfortably. They are also light enough that they can usually be towed behind most vehicles with a single axle trailer. 

If you plan on using your pontoon boat for water sports or longer trips, then you may need a larger model that allows more room and storage space. Larger pontoons are usually between 21 and 26 feet long, have double tube lengths ranging from 8 to 12 feet, and come equipped with flat decks that provide plenty of seating space for up to 12 people. Larger pontoons also require more power from outboard motors or fuel tanks, so they generally need tandem axle trailers for safe transport. 

When choosing the right size of pontoon boat for you, it’s important to consider how many people will be riding in the boat and what activities they will be participating in while onboard. It’s also important to keep in mind the type of terrain (calm water vs rough waters) as well as the top speed desired when selecting the right size of pontoon boat. Finally, make sure that your tow vehicle is capable of handling the weight of both the trailer and the new boat itself before making any major purchases! 

Pontoon Length 

The overall length of a pontoon boat should be one of your first considerations when selecting a new vessel. Boats can range from just 14 feet in length up to over 30 feet long. The longer boats generally provide more space and amenities on board, while a more compact pontoon boat or mini pontoons are more agile and easier to transport. 

Pontoon Weight & Capacity 

You also need to take into account how much weight your pontoon boat can carry safely. This will include not just passengers but also any gear or equipment that you may be bringing along with you. Larger pontoons usually have higher carrying capacities than smaller models, as well as larger fuel tanks and bigger outboard motors that can provide greater power and speed when necessary. 

Storage Space & Accessories 

Size also matters when it comes to storage space, particularly if you plan on bringing lots of gear onboard. If you’re planning on taking long trips or engaging in water sports such as fishing, tubing or skiing then having adequate storage will be essential for all of your supplies and equipment. A large boat generally has more storage space but a small boat might be available too with cleverly designed compartments that maximize their capacity without compromising their sleek design or performance characteristics. 

Ultimately, choosing the best size pontoon boat boils down to what type of activities you plan on participating in and how many people will be joining you aboard at any given time. Compact pontoon boats are great for small groups who want an easy-to-tow vessel good for flat-deck relaxing and fishing excursions on calm water bodies; medium-sized pontoons offer plenty of room for water sports like tubing and wakeboarding; while large boats are ideal for families who want comfort and stability even in rough waters or when traveling long distances across open waters at top speed. No matter what type of boating experience you’re after, there’s sure to be a perfect-size pontoon boat out there waiting just for you!

The size of your pontoon boat is an important consideration when buying a new one; not only does it affect how much fun you’ll have onboard but also how easy it will be to transport and store at home or on vacation. You should also consider the boat weight and make sure your bunk trailer or tandem axle trailer can handle it. Whether you choose a small compact model or a large one capable of holding up to 12 passengers, make sure it fits your lifestyle and budget before committing to anything! With a little research into different models available on the market today, finding the perfect size pontoon boat shouldn’t be too difficult—just remember that bigger isn’t always better! Best of luck in finding exactly what works best for you!

When selecting the best pontoon boat, size matters! From overall length and weight capacity through to storage space and accessories, consider what type of activities you plan on doing with your new vessel so that you can determine which size will suit your needs best. Keep in mind that larger boats tend to provide more amenities but require greater maintenance costs while smaller vessels may not offer quite as many features but are often easier (and cheaper) to maintain. So do some research before making a decision—it could make all the difference!