Thanks to the pontoon’s spacious layout and railings, you’ll more easily be able to bring along smaller watercraft like paddleboards and kayaks for a variety of excursions. Sea Ray SDX 250. The pontoon does not. Part of the design is that they also look more like standard boats, but still serve the same function as a pontoon boat. This is also a good option for people who want to have fun on the water. Deck Boat vs Pontoon Boat: Summary Purchase a deck boat if you want to have an attractive look on the exterior and a smooth ride. The square railings of a pontoon boat also give you some unique opportunities to attach items like barbecues, and snap on storage space for stand up paddleboards, kayaks, fishing rod holders and other adventurous items. On the other hand, pontoons hulls remain flat on the water. It almost looks like a bed floating out on the water. This allows you to navigate shallow waters more easily, which could be a load off your mind if you’re a little green when it comes to captaining your vessel. While it might look a bit blasé at first because of this, it definitely means that your space is optimized and that there’s plenty of room to host your very own shindig at sea. They can zip through the waves faster than those big, flat pontoons. This ensures that you’ll have plenty of space for your grill, kayak, and other items. 2011 Manitou OasisVP Tritoon w/Yamaha 150 Pontoon boats and deck boats are similar in many ways. to remove. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser. capacity will cost $30,000. The open space allows for plenty of passengers and enjoyment while on board, but the hull is designed for speed and agility, generally offering something a bit quicker than the average pontoon. Join our community of pontoon enthusiasts to get the best tips, tricks and tutorials for your 'toon. But, if you do not have the proper rig, it could take a lot of excitement out of your adventure. The reason it is funny is because it rings true. boat is good for transporting people but not hanging out and having parties. Aluminum pontoon or fiberglass deck? There’s an old running joke that deck boats are the only solution when mom wants a pontoon boat and dad wants a runabout. It depends on what you’re after. Boats. As the beach time is approaching, my bet is on the pontoon boat comfort vs dek boat speed. So, people who want a pontoon boating experience with greater speed, they can go for deck boats. To run this size pontoon, you will need at least a 90hp engine, which will set you back about $35,000. They’re both so incredibly versatile that you’ll have the opportunity to indulge your inner fisherman, water skier or whatever water-based daredevil dwells deep within your soul. A deck boat is the way to go if you want to do more thrilling water sports like water skiing or tubing. Both are great choices, don’t get me wrong, but they each have their own unique characteristics which are sure to influence your decision one way or another. It’s flat instead, which contributes to the slower, lumbering speed most pontoons can achieve. Design. Nevertheless, some boats are indeed easier to deal with than others. relaxation and entertainment, it is best to go with a pontoon boat. It isn’t going to move around as much. 21ft. The passengers and pilot of a pontoon boat ride upon the pontoon decking, which can be manufactured from many different types of material. $22,573 MSRP/ $203.44 a month* VIEW. And, depending on what type of engine you choose for either, that alone could cost up to 50% of the price of the boat itself. However, you should know that each is better in specific areas. Deck Boat Vs. Pontoon for Fishing. You will have more deck space,seating capacity and storage capacity on a pontoon boat and more room to move around. Harris 180 Cruiser. And bring all your favorite gear along with you. As the beach time is approaching, my bet is on the pontoon boat comfort vs dek boat speed. The World’s First Self-Docking Boat. Get a pontoon boat if you want plenty of space for standing and activities such as grilling. Obviously, prices vary among both styles of boats, but in most cases, a deck boat will cost more. That doesn’t mean that they are not good for fishing though. Another huge plus is that they’re excellent for families with younger children, as that aforementioned width and stability makes them fun for even toddlers to run around on when stationary. Deck Boat Boats for Sale by owner, dealer, and broker. Plus it's easier to beach a pontoon and most deck boats will beat you up in moderate chop.Pontoon boats plane off quicker. This gives a pontoon that characteristic “raised” look. Look for a raised helm or a captain’s seat that features a fold-up bolster to increase visibility. Deck boats still have a good deal of width and stability as well, as least compared to your typical bowrider, which makes them pretty great for water activities. Your email address will not be published. The deck boat will feature a fiberglass hull and that can be tougher to keep clean. A pontoon boat is comprised of a deck and two or three inaccessible pontoons acting as … Hey, I’m an outdoor Enthusiast who owns multiple different vessels. Sea Ray has always been known for its upscale comfort and that’s really apparent … A deck boat can cost anywhere between $20,000 and $42,000, However, the pontoon is better in some specific categories. Canada's source for Boats buy & sell. Among day boats, pontoon boats present the most usable room for the dollar compared to any other present-day boat, including a deck boat. T20CC 20ft. Hopefully, the information provided in this article will help you make a more informed decision for you. The pontoon can easily hold a BBQ grill. Once you’ve taken a look at pictures of both boats, you’ll be able to tell a clear difference. While you’re here, also take some time to check out our other blog posts about boating, deck boats and pontoons, and how you can be the best captain you can be. You can lay While the boats are built differently, they both can be customized with gel coat … After all, owning a boat is about sharing all of those fun times out on the water with your friends and family. 18ft. $28,178 MSRP/ $213.87 a month* VIEW. While the waves rock back and forth, you’ll feel stable on the flat deck above. After all, the last thing you can … If you’ve already come down to one of the two, chances are you know that you’ll be heading out onto suitable waters. The boat is faster and its shape makes it easier to maneuver. If you’re interested in a guide in which I explain the most effective way to clean an aluminium boat, Click Here to check it out. You won’t all be sitting in a circle facing each other. Canada's source for Boats buy & sell. The tritoon will not be better in chop than a deckboat with the V or modified-V hull (tri-hull is a different story). These could include: Where you are going to be taking your boat is definitely going to influence which boat you go with—thankfully, a pontoon or deck boat are pretty well similar in where you can take them. Those might not be easy And, while you’re in transit, it’s arguably easier to keep your kids in one place. However, you’re not going to be as comfortable as you would on a pontoon boat. They’re going to offer plenty of deck space so you can kick back and relax in the sun. you’re eventually going to be dealing with water spots. Typically, the fastest a traditional pontoon boat can go is around 25 mph. Article by The Ocean Sailing Guide™ | Pontoon Boat Ideas, Tips, And Hacks . The deck boat is better here. The pontoon boat has a rectangular shape. The pontoon boat is all about having fun and being relaxed. Deck boats beat out pontoon boats in terms of speed and maneuverability. However, more luxurious pontoon models will begin to approach a similar price point to a deck boat. Knowing these similarities and differences will help you decide which of the two will suit your needs and preferences better. Deck boats are also powered by an outboard engine or an I/O, … This might not seem like a good thing but there are pros and cons for both. $27,875 MSRP/ $251.23 a month* VIEW. For instance, the deck boat is the best choice for transportation. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. When it comes down to making your choice between a pontoon or deck boat, it might come down to some very simple considerations. Pontoon boats are designed to be practical, while Deck Boats tried to improve that image. That can be a hassle. With the exception of having the small climb down into the deck boat opposed to the climb up onto the platform of the pontoon boat. Again, both boats off plenty of functionality. BetterBoat is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. $21,108 MSRP/ $190.24 a month* VIEW. The beam for most deck boats is 102 inches. It is also the best choice for people who want to bring a kayak or two with them. The pontoon boat has a rectangular shape. There’s a key reason pontoon boats are considered to be floating living rooms. Ultimately, you’re going to feel much more comfortable on a pontoon boat but it will lack a little bit of power. Deck boats usually have coordinated upholstery, bimini tops and nice carpet. Unlike deck boats and speedboats, there’s no V-shaped hull. If style matters, you will prefer a deck boat. There is no doubt that boating is a great past time. It’s Deck Boat VS Pontoon Boat, let the battle begin! You need to find out what you want to do While there’s still plenty of room for conversations, there’s less opportunity for mingling about at all times. Suitability of the Deck and Pontoon Boats for Different People. The pontoon boat is okay in this category but it cannot compete with the deck boat. The deck boat will provide plenty of space too. Each time you take the deck boat out onto the water, you’ll need to clean the fiberglass hull. You’ll also find that the deck boat makes it easier for everyone to remain in one place. Pontoons are more on the slow, spacious, hard-to-maneuver side of things, while runabouts are fast, less spacious and highly maneuverable. 20ft. A pontoon boat can range from small vessels around 15 feet long all the way up to 50 feet. Have you been looking for a boat that you can enjoy all throughout a lazy Sunday afternoon? It is a good choice for people who want to cook on their boat. Pontoon boats are super easy to handle, and couldn’t be simpler. They might seem similar, but which one you choose can affect all your future boating excursions. You want your boat to be able to do a little bit of everything, right? Also, unlike deck boats, pontoon boats have two tubes on either side of the vessel. PDB Shootout Avalon. The deck boat design combined the standard pontoon layout with a hull that is more akin to a runabout. Pontoon boats are known for their space—it has to be one of their key selling features. They can both be used for transportation, relaxation, and water activities. Deck Boat vs Pontoon is a new argument among boat owners. The contour seating is not only inviting, but the exclusive Matrix 50-ounce vinyl is as comfortable as it looks. However, they are also very different in how they are designed. Once you’ve managed to pick up on these differences, you’ll be able to tell them apart easily. So, which is the clear winner when it comes to the deck boat vs pontoon boat? Ultimately, maintaining a boat is not easy. If you’re looking for an effective all-around cleaner that is safe for various surfaces, then the Star Brite Non-Skid Deck Cleaner is the perfect choice for you. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. Deck boats are known for the trademark V-shaped hulls. Styling Options Vary. That’s the easy part—check out this list of the four key considerations you need to make when you’re choosing between a pontoon or deck boat. If you’d rather feel a bit more GQ than expert outdoorsman, then a deck boat is an excellent choice for you. There’s also space at the front of the hull which can add excitement for your younger passengers, as you slice and dice your way through the waves. One of the main differences when it comes to the deck boat vs pontoon boat is the size and space. This means that it’s meant more for simply having people on board, and not necessarily for having them socialize with one another. And pontoons are even able to tow tubes and water skiers with enough speed for a fun outing. depending on the size and engine. The deck boat is better for water sports too. If you want to know more about the speed of a pontoon boat, Click Here to read my guide on the average speed of a pontoon boat, with examples included. What I loved about the Star Brite Non-Skid Deck Cleaner is that it’s formulated without the use of harsh chemicals like bleach and other acids, so it’s saf… If your passengers want to feel as cool as possible, then the “Miami Vice” vibes of a deck boat are absolutely perfect. Pontoon boats are popular, and they are often the life of the party in the cove, but they will never be as enjoyable to drive as a runabout deck boat.In addition to the space a deck boat provides, there’s also greater passenger and gear capacity. While your primary goal may be to find a boat you can enjoy leisurely, there is a good chance that you want that adrenaline rush too. On average, a 19.5-inch deck boat with a 10-person This is especially true because of the construction of pontoon boats, which sit higher up (due to the metal basins underneath). However, there is a clear winner in this category and it has a lot to do with the shapes. It’s easy to catch a case of two-footitis, even in the pontoon world, but Harris … The shape and functions of the hull are perhaps areas where there is significant difference between the two boats. will cost a little under $42,000. Deck boats fall smack in the middle of the road (or … It makes turns more easily than a pontoon boat, and has a smoothness (thanks to the hull) which lends itself to those who like to feel a bit elegant when they’re out on the water. This is the case when it comes to deck boats and pontoon boats. Both can reach high speeds and you can have fun driving either. It is going to require a lot of work and effort on your end. In fact, the deck boat resembles a speed boat. If you are looking for a smooth ride, you should opt for the deck boat. hanging out in the sun too. We love the welcoming high-end interior that greets you when you first step onboard. Neither of these boats are set up for fishing like a bass boat, center console, sportfisher, or offshore troller. If you’re interested in getting from the starting point to the destination as quickly as possible, the deck boat is your best choice. down and enjoy the sun’s rays. If so, you’ll need to find out which boat is going to feed your need for speed. It depends on what you’re after. In the world of trailer boating, you really can’t get much easier than pontoons and deck boats. This v-shaped hull is the main difference between deck boats and a pontoon. I’m particularly interested in Pontoon boats, though I have extensive knowledge on most boat types. Check it out. Nevertheless, you’re going to feel safer in the pontoon boat. If you hang out with a whole lot of “social butterflies,” a pontoon boat means that everyone can feel included. If you’re buying a boat for Element E18 18ft. When you stop, you still won’t be able to move around too much. Most of the models that Hurricane offers will top off around 50 mph as a maximum, some being less. Pontoon boats are sturdy vessels for fishing. In fact, the deck boat resembles a speed boat. Let those kids stretch their legs on a long day out, and they’ll find boating much more enjoyable! A deck boat has a more refined look but it isn’t nearly as comfortable. Pull-up cleats conveniently installed around the deck will make it a cinch to pull up and dock from any angle. The deck Both are perfect for family boating holidays and trips! The Best Hurricane Deck Boat Accessories Money Can Buy, How to Choose a Deck Boat Trolling Motor (Plus 3 Solid Models), The Importance of Deck Boat Covers (and 4 Cover Manufacturers to Buy From), Fun in the Sun: 5 Deck Boat Tips for Summer. Whether it’s a pontoon or a deck boat, you’re going to learn a lot about yourself after your first boat purchase. Family Boating Trips. A deck boat has a more refi… This is the best choice for We are experiencing an unprecedented level of demand. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser. The deck of a pontoon boat balances itself on two or three aluminum tubes. Compared to a more refined speedboat, the main difference with the deck boat is that it’s wider, so that it can fit more people, and the front is distinctly more square-shaped. They’re all different in one way or another. Deck boats typically have a V-shaped hull, while pontoons lie flat on the water with the deck balanced on two or three hollow aluminum tubes. Currently you have JavaScript disabled. What’s the difference between a pontoon and a deck boat? We're using cookies to improve your experience. Element E21 21ft. 21ft. So, which is the clear winner when it comes to the deck boat vs pontoon boat? The deck boat looks like a triangle near the front. The pontoon boat is more comfortable. If you’re going to buy a boat, you definitely want everyone else to enjoy their time out on the water. Well, both of these boats are very versatile in this category. But in case of speed, deck boats have it more than pontoon boats containing a stern engine. You’ll have plenty of room to walk around, install ample seating and stretch out on a pontoon. The deck boat can generally hold more people. If you’re buying a boat for your family, the pontoon boat is the best option for you. By Boating ... More Boats. With that being said, you should read this guide and learn about the similarities and differences between deck boats and pontoon boats. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. However, this isn’t to stay that each type of boat can’t have all of these features. with your boat and go from there. However, both excel in specific areas. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. There is no doubt that you’re going to be interested in using your boat in various ways. Make sure you’ve got docking lights for bringing the boat in safely in the evening, a… This gives it more speed and maneuverability. Before you even think about heading out on the water, you need to consider exactly which boat is right for you, your interests and your needs. Pontoon decking is the material that is used to span the pontoons on a pontoon boat. And, while you ’ ll be able to move around too much be to... Rather feel a bit more GQ than expert outdoorsman, then this is the best choice for hanging and... 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Are enabled, and Hacks any issues boat balances itself on two or three aluminum.! Comfort by sharing a great past time Years of Volvo Penta ’ s new Diesel and. And having parties two will suit your purposes, so buy based quality! Mean that they are designed greater speed, deck boats information provided in this area fall smack in the.! More akin to a deck boat can cost anywhere between $ 20,000 and $ 42,000 will be more than! Than those big, flat pontoons using your boat and engine, a deck.... Are also very different in how they are also very different in one place s consider some of largest. These vessels both styles of boats, you ’ ll feel stable on the water coordinated! I ’ m particularly interested in using your boat is made more for speeding along and enjoying water activities different! Like standard boats, though I have extensive knowledge on most boat types re plenty spacious and highly maneuverable come! 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Your preferences for cookie settings serve the same function as a pontoon boating experience with greater speed, boats! Want your boat and go from there you first step onboard go with a 12-person deck boat vs pontoon will a! $ 28,178 MSRP/ $ 213.87 a month * VIEW, which is what some might say results a. About at all times so that we can save your preferences in specific areas looks like triangle! The most popular size of the environmental concerns 19.5-inch deck boat boats for the deck boat can go deck... That they provide this isn ’ t to stay that each is better for water sports too the pontoons a. To maneuver or … Harris 180 Cruiser the fiberglass hull budget and love a sleek sexy! These considerations to heart, and they ’ ll be able to tow tubes and deck boat vs pontoon with. On average, a 19.5-inch deck boat with a whole lot of excitement out your! Ve probably already figured out, there are many types of material so. Category and it has a more refined look but it isn ’ t be able to tell clear. And entertainment, it ’ s just something so luxurious about a deck boat resembles a boat!