Avalon Pontoon Boats: Smooth Rides and Classic Comfort – Your Complete Guide to Luxury & Performance

Picture yourself gliding across glassy water at sunset, cold drink in hand, with your family laughing on plush seating that feels more like your living room than a boat. That’s the Avalon pontoon experience—where classic craftsmanship meets modern performance in a package that turns heads at every marina.

What Makes Avalon Pontoon Boats Stand Out

Avalon Pontoons has been building quality watercraft since 1972, and they’ve perfected the art of blending comfort with performance. Unlike some manufacturers who chase trends, Avalon sticks to what works: solid construction, thoughtful design, and features that real boaters actually use.

The company operates out of Michigan, right in the heart of pontoon boat country. They build everything from compact 16-foot fishing platforms to luxurious 27-foot entertainer models with enough seating for the whole neighborhood. What sets them apart is their attention to detail—the little touches that you don’t notice until you’ve spent a full day on the water.

The Signature Avalon Ride Quality

Anyone who’s driven multiple pontoon brands will tell you: Avalon boats have a distinct feel on the water. The ride is smooth and stable, even when you hit boat wake at speed. This comes down to their pontoon tube design and how they distribute weight across the deck.

Avalon uses 25-inch diameter pontoons on most models (with 27-inch available on performance packages), which provide excellent buoyancy and stability. The larger diameter cuts through chop more effectively than the smaller 23-inch tubes some competitors use.

I remember taking an Avalon GS Quad Lounge out for a demo ride on a breezy afternoon. The lake had a decent chop going, but the boat barely registered it. My kids were playing cards at the table like we were sitting in the driveway.

Avalon’s Model Lineup: Something for Everyone

Catalina Series – Entry-Level Excellence

The Catalina series represents Avalon’s value-focused lineup without sacrificing quality. These boats come with vinyl flooring, standard furniture packages, and reliable Mercury or Yamaha outboards ranging from 50 to 150 horsepower.

Catalina models start around $28,000-35,000 depending on length and options. They’re perfect for families who want the Avalon build quality without breaking the bank. You get stainless steel rails, quality upholstery, and the same warranty coverage as more expensive models.

LSZ Series – Luxury Sport

Step up to the LSZ series and you’ll notice the upgrades immediately. We’re talking premium SeaDek flooring, upgraded sound systems with Bluetooth connectivity, LED accent lighting, and sport seating configurations designed for watersports.

The LSZ models feature lifting strakes on the pontoon tubes—these are like little fins that help the boat plane faster and corner more aggressively. If you enjoy pulling tubes or wakeboards, the LSZ series delivers performance that rivals dedicated sport pontoons.

Prices typically run $45,000-65,000 depending on size and power. Popular options include the LSZ 2485 QL (Quad Lounge), which packs seating for 14 passengers across 24 feet of deck space.

Ambassador Series – Ultimate Luxury

The Ambassador series is where Avalon really shows off. These are the boats you see at the marina that make you stop and stare. High-end features include:

• Woven vinyl flooring that looks like teak decking
• Premium furniture with layered cushions and contrast stitching
• Advanced helm stations with full digital gauges
• Integrated entertainment systems with subwoofers
• Underwater LED lighting packages
• Stainless steel cup holders and accessory mounts throughout

Ambassador boats start around $70,000 and can exceed $100,000 when fully loaded with a powerful outboard like a Mercury Verado 350. But if you want to turn your pontoon into a floating resort, this is the way to go.

Excalibur Series – Performance Pontoons

For speed enthusiasts, Avalon offers the Excalibur series—tritoon boats designed to handle serious horsepower. The third center pontoon tube adds stability and allows these boats to safely run 250-400 HP outboards.

Excalibur models feature triple 25-inch pontoons with full-length lifting strakes, reinforced transoms, and sport-oriented layouts. They’ll cruise comfortably at 35-45 mph depending on engine choice, with top speeds approaching 55+ mph on the high-performance packages.

Here’s something interesting: the extra pontoon tube doesn’t just add speed—it dramatically improves handling in rough water. The boat tracks straighter and responds more predictably to steering inputs.

Key Features That Define Avalon Quality

Construction and Durability

Avalon uses marine-grade aluminum throughout their construction—.100 gauge on the deck framework and .080 gauge on sides and rails. All welding is done in-house with strict quality control. The result is a rigid, rattle-free structure that holds up to years of use.

The powder-coated aluminum framework resists corrosion far better than painted surfaces. Avalon also uses stainless steel fasteners wherever possible, eliminating the rust streaks you see on boats that use cheaper hardware.

Furniture and Upholstery

Avalon furniture is legitimately comfortable. The cushions use high-density marine foam that maintains its shape season after season. Vinyl choices range from basic to premium Sunbrella marine-grade fabrics that resist fading and mildew.

Seating configurations get creative too. The Quad Lounge layout is hugely popular—it features four distinct seating areas including L-shaped lounges, a dinette table setup, and captain’s chairs. You can easily accommodate 12-14 people without anyone feeling cramped.

“The best pontoon boat is the one everyone actually wants to ride on. Comfortable seating isn’t a luxury—it’s the whole point of owning a pontoon.”

Helm Design and Electronics

Avalon helm stations are driver-focused without being complicated. The steering wheel is mounted at a comfortable angle, gauges are easy to read in direct sunlight, and switch panels are logically organized.

Higher-end models come prewired for electronics, making it easy to add a Garmin ECHOMAP fishfinder or Simrad GO7 chartplotter. The dash has space for a flush-mounted display, and power/data connections are already in place.

Avalon Pontoon Performance Comparison

Model Series	Length Options	Passenger Capacity	Tube Configuration	Recommended HP	Typical Cruise Speed	Price Range
Catalina	18′ – 25′	8 – 14	Dual 25″	50 – 150 HP	15 – 25 mph	$28K – $45K
LSZ	20′ – 27′	10 – 16	Dual 25″	115 – 200 HP	20 – 30 mph	$45K – $70K
Ambassador	23′ – 27′	12 – 16	Dual 25″ or Triple	150 – 300 HP	25 – 35 mph	$70K – $110K
Excalibur	23′ – 27′	10 – 14	Triple 25″	200 – 400 HP	30 – 45 mph	$85K – $130K

Real-World Performance: What to Expect

Fuel Efficiency

Pontoon boats aren’t known for sipping fuel, but Avalon’s efficient hull designs help. A typical 23-foot Avalon with a Mercury 115 HP four-stroke will burn about 4-6 gallons per hour at cruise speeds (20-25 mph). Push it to wide-open throttle and consumption jumps to 8-10 GPH.

The tritoon Excalibur models with big motors drink more fuel—expect 12-18 GPH at cruise with a 250+ HP engine. But you’re also moving significantly faster, so your time to destination balances out somewhat.

Pro tip: Running at 3/4 throttle instead of wide open typically gives you 80-90% of your top speed while using 30-40% less fuel. That sweet spot varies by boat and motor, but it’s worth finding.

Handling Characteristics

Avalon pontoons track exceptionally straight, which newer boaters really appreciate. You don’t need to constantly adjust the wheel to maintain course. The trade-off is they’re not the quickest turners—these boats prefer gentle, sweeping turns rather than sharp maneuvers.

The power steering option (available on most models) makes docking much easier, especially on larger boats with big outboards. Without power assist, you’ll build some forearm strength wrestling a 27-footer into a tight slip.

Wind affects pontoons more than V-hull boats due to the flat deck and high sides. Learn to use trim tabs if your boat has them—they help keep the bow down in wind and improve fuel efficiency.

Must-Have Accessories and Upgrades

Sound System Enhancements

Avalon’s factory stereo systems are decent, but audiophiles will want upgrades. Popular additions include:

• Wet Sounds REV10 tower speakers ($800-1,200 per pair) for serious volume
• Kicker marine subwoofers for better bass response
• Additional deck speakers in the bow lounge area
• Bluetooth amplifiers for zone control

Fishing Additions

Turn your Avalon into a fishing machine with these modifications:

• Lowrance HDS-12 LIVE fishfinder with Active Imaging sonar
• Rod holders mounted on the rails (Scotty or RAM mounts work great)
• Livewells or bait tanks (aftermarket options from companies like SeaLux)
• Trolling motor mount on the bow (Minn Kota or MotorGuide)

Comfort Upgrades

Make your Avalon even more comfortable with:

• Bimini top extensions for full-deck shade coverage
• Portable marine grills (Magma or Kuuma brands are popular)
• Yeti Tundra 45 or similar high-end cooler
• LED underwater lighting kits (Lumitec or T-H Marine)
• Snap-in carpeting for SeaDek floors when the weather cools

Maintenance Tips for Avalon Owners

Always rinse with fresh water after every outing, especially in salt water. The aluminum construction is corrosion-resistant, but not corrosion-proof. A 10-minute rinse saves thousands in premature aging.

Clean your vinyl upholstery monthly with mild soap and water, then protect it with 303 Aerospace Protectant. This UV blocker keeps colors vibrant and prevents cracking. Avoid armor-all type products—they leave greasy residues that attract dirt.

Check your pontoon tubes for damage after running in shallow water or rocky areas. Small dents are cosmetic, but sharp punctures need immediate attention. Most aluminum welding shops can repair pontoon damage for $200-500 depending on severity.

Service your outboard according to the manufacturer’s schedule—typically oil changes every 100 hours or annually. Mercury Verado and Yamaha four-strokes are exceptionally reliable when maintained properly. Don’t skip the lower unit oil changes; that’s your propeller’s lifeblood.

A marina tech once told me: “The difference between a 10-year-old boat that looks new and one that looks 20 years old is usually just consistent cleaning and UV protection.”

Avalon vs. The Competition

Avalon vs. Bennington

Bennington pontoons are Avalon’s main competitor in the premium segment. Bennington boats typically cost 10-15% more with similar features. They offer slightly more customization options, but Avalon’s standard packages are more comprehensive. Both build excellent boats—it often comes down to dealer availability and personal preference.

Avalon vs. Sun Tracker

Sun Tracker targets the budget-conscious buyer with entry-level pricing $5,000-10,000 below comparable Avalon models. You sacrifice some build quality and features, but Sun Trackers are reliable workhorses. If budget is your primary concern, they’re worth considering. If you want nicer furniture and better resale value, Avalon wins.

Avalon vs. Harris

Harris Flotebote builds sport-focused pontoons with excellent performance. Their Solstice series competes directly with Avalon’s LSZ and Excalibur lines. Harris boats often feel slightly more nimble in turns, while Avalon interiors typically feel more upscale. Both are quality manufacturers—test drive both if performance is your priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best Avalon model for a family of five? The LSZ 2385 QL (Quad Lounge) in 23 feet hits the sweet spot for most families. It offers enough seating for guests, manageable size for newer boaters, and performance capability for watersports. Paired with a Mercury 150 HP four-stroke, it’s versatile and reliable.

Do Avalon pontoons hold their value? Yes, Avalon boats maintain strong resale values—typically 60-70% of original MSRP after five years with normal use. Keep maintenance records, store it properly, and keep it clean to maximize resale. Premium models like Ambassador and Excalibur hold value best.

Can I take an Avalon pontoon in salt water? Absolutely, but you must rinse thoroughly after every use. Salt accelerates corrosion on all metals and destroys fabrics. Flush your outboard’s cooling system monthly with fresh water in salt environments. Many Florida and coastal boaters run Avalon pontoons trouble-free for decades.

What size motor do I really need? For cruising and relaxing, 1 HP per 150-200 pounds of boat weight works fine. A 23-foot Avalon (around 2,400 lbs) runs well on 115-150 HP. For watersports or tritoon performance, bump up to 1 HP per 100 pounds or more. Bigger isn’t always better—oversized motors waste fuel and add weight.

Are tritoons worth the extra cost? If you want to run 200+ horsepower, pull multiple skiers, or frequently boat in rough water, yes. The third tube adds $8,000-15,000 to the price but dramatically improves performance and handling. For casual cruising, standard dual-tube pontoons are plenty capable.

How often should I wax my Avalon pontoon? Wax the gel coat surfaces every 2-3 months during boating season using marine-specific products like Meguiar’s Marine/RV Wax. This protects against oxidation and UV damage. Aluminum pontoon tubes don’t need waxing, but periodic aluminum cleaner keeps them shiny.

What’s the typical lifespan of an Avalon pontoon? With proper maintenance, 25-35 years is realistic. The aluminum pontoons and framework are incredibly durable. You’ll likely replace the outboard (or rebuild it) and reupholster furniture before the boat structure wears out. The quality construction justifies the initial investment.

References

• Avalon Pontoons Official Specifications and Brochures
• Mercury Marine Rigging and Performance Guidelines
• National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Standards
• BoatUS Foundation Boating Safety Resources

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Ready to experience the Avalon difference? Visit your local dealer for a test ride, or share your Avalon ownership stories in the comments below. What features matter most to you in a pontoon boat?