How to Buy a Pontoon Boat: A Complete Guide to New, Used, Brands, Prices & Financing
You’re standing at the marina watching families laugh on their pontoon boats, and you’re thinking: “I want that experience—but where do I even start?”
Buying a pontoon boat doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re eyeing a brand-new model or hunting for a used gem, this guide walks you through everything from choosing the right brand to understanding what you’ll actually pay.
Understanding Pontoon Boat Basics: What You’re Really Buying
Before you hand over your hard-earned cash, let’s talk about what makes a pontoon boat tick. These floating decks aren’t just rafts with motors—they’re engineered watercraft with specific components that affect performance, comfort, and value.
The Anatomy of a Pontoon: Tubes, Deck, and Power
A pontoon boat rides on two or three aluminum tubes (called pontoons or logs) that provide buoyancy. The deck sits on top, and that’s where your furniture, helm, and all the fun happens. Here’s what separates a good pontoon from a great one:
- Tube diameter: Ranges from 23 to 27 inches. Bigger tubes = better stability and weight capacity
- Gauge thickness: .080 to .125 gauge aluminum. Thicker walls mean longer life
- Tritoon vs. twin-tube: Three tubes give you higher speeds and better handling in chop
- Deck construction: Marine-grade plywood with vinyl or composite flooring
The motor you choose matters just as much as the boat itself. Most pontoons run outboards from Yamaha, Mercury, or Honda ranging from 90 to 350 horsepower. A 115hp motor is the sweet spot for a 22-foot family cruiser—enough power to pull a tube without breaking the bank on fuel.
New vs. Used: The Real Cost Breakdown
Let’s get honest about money. A brand-new 24-foot pontoon boat with a 150hp motor and decent amenities starts around $45,000. But here’s where it gets interesting—that same boat loses about 15-20% of its value the moment you drive it off the dealer’s lot.
Used pontoons from 2018-2021 offer incredible value. You’re looking at $30,000-$38,000 for boats that still have 10+ years of life left. I’ve seen well-maintained 2019 models selling for 30% less than new, and they look nearly identical.
Pro tip: Boats that spent their lives in freshwater lakes age better than saltwater pontoons—always ask where it was used.
Top Pontoon Boat Brands: Who Makes the Best Value
Not all pontoon brands are created equal. Some focus on luxury, others on fishing, and a few nail the balance between quality and affordability.
Premium Brands Worth the Investment
Bennington consistently ranks at the top for build quality. Their Elliptical Sport Package (ESP) tubes reduce drag and improve handling. Expect to pay $55,000-$80,000 for a new 24-footer, but you’re buying a boat that holds resale value like few others.
Harris FloteBote pioneered the tritoon design back in the ’90s. Their Crowne series boats come with plush seating, premium sound systems, and the kind of fit-and-finish that makes your neighbor jealous. Budget $50,000-$75,000 for new models.
Avalon (owned by Godfrey Marine) delivers luxury at a slightly lower price point. Their GS Entertainer models pack features like LED lighting, Bimini tops, and quality furniture for $40,000-$60,000.
Mid-Range Brands: Best Bang for Your Buck
Sun Tracker (owned by Bass Pro Shops) dominates the value segment. Their Party Barge series offers solid construction, comfortable seating, and reliable performance starting around $35,000 new. Used Sun Trackers from 2018-2020 frequently sell for $22,000-$28,000.
Lowe builds rugged fishing-focused pontoons. If you spend more time with a rod than a cocktail, their SF series (Sport Fish) includes livewells, rod holders, and trolling motors. New models start at $38,000.
Godfrey Sweetwater gives you more boat per dollar than almost anyone. Clean layouts, decent furniture, and proven tube designs from $32,000-$48,000 new.
Budget-Friendly Options That Don’t Sacrifice Safety
Tahoe pontoons from Smoker Craft deliver basic functionality without the frills. You’re looking at $28,000-$38,000 new for a 22-24 footer. Perfect for first-time buyers who want reliable transportation on the water.
Misty Harbor focuses on fishing enthusiasts who need workspace more than luxury. Their Biscayne Bay series starts around $30,000 and includes practical features like removable coolers and fishing chairs.
“Buy the best boat you can afford, but don’t feel pressured to overspend on features you’ll never use. A $35,000 boat used 40 weekends a year beats a $60,000 boat that sits under a cover.” — Marina owner with 20+ years experience
How to Shop for a Used Pontoon: Inspection Checklist
Buying used saves money, but only if you avoid problem boats. Here’s your inspection routine—print this list and bring it to every showing.
Critical Areas to Inspect Before Purchase
The Tubes: Get underneath and look for dents, corrosion, or repairs. Minor scratches are normal; deep gouges or pitted aluminum mean trouble. Check the nosecones (front caps) for separation from the tubes.
The Deck: Walk every square foot feeling for soft spots. Bounce near the edges—it should feel solid. Soft or spongy areas mean water intrusion and rotted plywood underneath. That’s a $3,000-$8,000 repair.
The Motor: Cold start the engine. It should fire within 3-5 seconds and idle smoothly without excessive smoke. Look for oil leaks around the powerhead. Check the lower unit for milky fluid (water contamination in the gear oil).
Wiring and Electronics: Test every switch, light, and accessory. Corroded connections cause endless headaches. Look at the battery compartment for corrosion or jury-rigged wiring.
Furniture Condition: Marine vinyl deteriorates in the sun. Cracked, faded, or torn seats cost $150-$400 per section to reupholster.
Red Flags That Should End the Conversation
Walk away immediately if you see:
- Repairs to tube seams or welded patches
- Seller refuses a water test
- Missing title or lien issues
- Strong mildew smell (indicates water damage)
- Evidence of submersion or flooding
Always hire a marine surveyor for boats over $25,000. They charge $300-$500 but can save you from a $10,000 mistake.
Pontoon Boat Price Comparison: What to Expect in 2024-2025
| Brand | Model | Length | HP Range | Condition | Typical Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bennington | 22 SSX | 22 ft | 115-150 | New | $52,000-$65,000 | Families wanting premium quality |
| Harris | Cruiser 230 | 23 ft | 150-200 | New | $58,000-$72,000 | Entertaining and watersports |
| Avalon | GS Cruise 22 | 22 ft | 115-150 | New | $45,000-$55,000 | Balanced luxury and value |
| Sun Tracker | Party Barge 22 DLX | 22 ft | 90-150 | New | $35,000-$42,000 | Budget-conscious families |
| Lowe | SF234 Sport Fish | 23 ft | 115-150 | New | $42,000-$51,000 | Serious anglers |
| Bennington | 24 SSBX | 24 ft | 150-200 | Used (2019-2021) | $38,000-$48,000 | Value-focused luxury buyers |
| Sun Tracker | Fishin’ Barge 22 | 22 ft | 90-115 | Used (2018-2020) | $22,000-$28,000 | First-time buyers on budget |
These prices include the boat, motor, and trailer in most cases. Dealers often charge $2,000-$5,000 in “destination” and “prep” fees on new boats—negotiate these aggressively.
Financing Your Pontoon: Loans, Rates, and Hidden Costs
Most buyers finance their pontoon boat, and rates have changed significantly in 2024. Here’s what you need to know before signing papers.
Current Marine Loan Landscape
Marine loans differ from car loans in important ways. Lenders typically offer:
- Terms: 10-20 years (longer than cars)
- Down payment: 10-20% is standard
- Rates: 7.5-11% APR as of late 2024 (credit dependent)
Credit unions consistently offer the best rates—often 1-2% lower than dealer financing. Call your local credit union before shopping. Pre-approval gives you negotiating power.
Marine-specific lenders like Lightstream, Essex Credit, and Trident Funding specialize in boats. They understand seasonal use and depreciation better than traditional banks.
The Real Monthly Cost Example
Let’s say you buy a $40,000 used 2020 Bennington with $8,000 down:
- Loan amount: $32,000
- Term: 15 years
- Rate: 8.5% APR
- Monthly payment: $315
But wait—that’s not your total cost. Add:
- Insurance: $400-$800/year ($35-$70/month)
- Marina slip or storage: $150-$500/month (location dependent)
- Maintenance: $100-$200/month average
- Fuel: $80-$150/month during season
Real monthly cost: $680-$1,235 depending on your situation.
“Too many buyers focus only on the boat payment and forget that docking, insurance, and fuel can double their actual monthly expense. Budget for the whole picture, not just the loan.”
Where to Buy: Dealers vs. Private Sellers vs. Auctions
Each buying method has advantages and traps. Your choice depends on your mechanical knowledge and tolerance for risk.
Buying from Dealers: The Safe (Expensive) Route
Dealers charge premium prices, but you get warranties, financing help, and some peace of mind. New boats come with manufacturer warranties (typically 5 years hull, 3 years components). Used dealer boats often include 30-90 day warranties.
Expect to pay 10-15% more than private party prices, but dealers handle registration, transport, and rigging. They also provide winter storage deals and service packages that add value.
Private Party Sales: Maximum Savings, Maximum Risk
Private sellers price boats 10-20% below dealer retail. You’ll find the best deals from owners who:
- Upgraded to a bigger boat
- Are moving and can’t take it
- Lost interest after a few seasons
- Need quick cash for other expenses
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and BoatTrader dominate the private party market. The key is patience—great deals appear suddenly and disappear within hours.
Always meet at a marina where you can do a full water test. Never wire money before seeing the boat in person.
Boat Auctions and Repo Sales: For the Bold
Government surplus auctions, bank repos, and estate sales sometimes feature pontoon boats at 30-50% below market value. But these are “as-is” purchases with zero recourse.
Only consider auctions if you have mechanical skills or a trusted marine mechanic. I’ve seen incredible $15,000 pontoons at repo auctions—and also absolute nightmares.
Seasonal Buying Strategy: When to Get the Best Deal
Timing your purchase can save thousands. Pontoon boat prices follow predictable seasonal patterns.
Fall and Winter: The Smart Buyer’s Window
September through February is deal season. Dealers want inventory gone before snow falls, and private sellers don’t want to store boats over winter.
Expect discounts of 15-25% on new models as dealers make room for next year’s lineup. Used boats sit longer in fall, making sellers more negotiable.
I bought my 2019 Sun Tracker in November for $5,200 less than the same seller was asking in August. Patience pays.
Spring and Summer: Maximum Prices
March through July is seller’s market territory. Everyone wants a boat when the sun’s shining. You’ll pay full asking price—or above—during peak season.
If you must buy in spring, shop early (March-April) before competition heats up. By May, the best used boats are already sold.
Essential Paperwork and Registration
Before you hand over money, verify the seller owns the boat free and clear. Request:
- Title: Must match seller’s ID
- Bill of sale: Document the transaction
- Registration: Current in seller’s name
- Lien search: Check for outstanding loans
Each state handles boat registration differently. Some require registration through DMV, others through fish and game departments. Budget $100-$300 for registration and title transfer.
Most lenders require full insurance coverage during the loan term. Shop around—rates vary wildly between companies. Progressive, Geico, and BoatUS offer competitive marine insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best pontoon boat size for a family of four? A 22-24 foot pontoon is the sweet spot for families. It provides enough seating for 8-10 people, fits in standard marina slips, and can be towed with most mid-size SUVs without special licenses.
How many hours is too many on a used pontoon boat motor? Outboard motors can easily run 1,500-2,000 hours with proper maintenance. The average recreational boat accumulates 50-75 hours per year, so a 2018 boat with 300 hours is normal. Over 600 hours on a 5-year-old boat suggests heavy use.
Should I buy a tritoon or twin-tube pontoon? Tritoons cost $8,000-$12,000 more but offer better handling, higher speeds, and improved rough-water performance. If you plan to tube, wakeboard, or navigate choppy lakes, the third tube is worth it. For calm water cruising, twin tubes work great.
Can I negotiate the price on a new pontoon boat? Absolutely. Dealers expect negotiation and typically have 10-18% margin on new boats. Start at 15% below asking price, especially during fall closeout sales. Don’t forget to negotiate prep fees and accessories too.
What’s the difference between a pontoon and a deck boat? Pontoons float on cylindrical tubes, while deck boats have a V-hull like traditional boats. Pontoons offer more deck space and stability; deck boats provide sportier handling and higher speeds. For family cruising and fishing, pontoons win.
How much does it cost to maintain a pontoon boat annually? Budget $1,200-$2,000 per year for a well-maintained pontoon. This includes winterization ($150-$300), spring commissioning ($150-$300), oil changes ($80-$150), insurance ($400-$800), and minor repairs. Major service like lower unit work adds $400-$800 every few years.
Are pontoon boats good in saltwater? Pontoons can handle saltwater but require diligent maintenance. Rinse thoroughly after every use, inspect sacrificial anodes regularly, and use marine-grade lubricants. Freshwater pontoons last 20-30 years; saltwater boats often show significant wear by year 15.
Your Next Steps: Making the Purchase
You’re armed with knowledge—now it’s time to act. Start by determining your budget including all ownership costs, not just the purchase price. Get pre-approved for financing before shopping so you know your exact buying power.
Visit dealers and compare at least three brands in your price range. Take water tests seriously—a 15-minute test drive reveals more than an hour of dock talk. For used boats, bring a mechanic or hire a surveyor for boats over $25,000.
Remember: the best boat is the one you’ll actually use. A modest 22-footer that’s paid off and easy to trailer beats a showroom queen that sits under a cover because you can’t afford the marina fees.
What’s holding you back from joining the pontoon boat community? Drop a comment below with your biggest question or concern—I’d love to help you find the perfect boat!
References: Pricing data based on 2024 NADA Boat Guides, dealer quotes from MarineMax and local dealers in Michigan/Florida markets, and private party listings from BoatTrader and Facebook Marketplace. Specifications verified through manufacturer websites for Bennington, Harris, Avalon, Sun Tracker, and Lowe.
