Inflatable pontoon boats are one of the top options for fans of boating. Since they offer a unique experience which lets you sit close to the water for traditional hobbies such as fishing and riding, they are one of the most affordable means of unlocking boating adventures on the river. If you are looking for the best inflatable pontoon boats, this page will serve as a reference in helping you make an informed purchasing decision.
Classic Accessories Colorado Inflatable Pontoon Boat
Specifications
- High-quality one seat pontoon boat.
- L x W X H: 108” x 56” x 30”
- Powder-coated steel tube frame.
- Sage and black body color.
- ABYC standard safety features.
- 400-pound capacity.
If you are looking for one of the best inflatable pontoon boats, this should be one of the first options that you consider. With two separate pontoons that are 9 feet long and safety features that align with the ABYC standards, this is a very high-quality pontoon boat that you can rely on for long trips out into the abyss. This model has a weatherproof mount design to protect the motor when the climate starts to get a little extreme.
As long as you fit within the 400-pound weight limit once you are your equipment is factored into play, this boat will provide countless hours of safe adventures out on the water. There is plenty of space for you to hold your stuff (22 pockets), and you can also easily store cold drinks using the insulated drink holders. This is one of the best inflatable pontoon boats for people who want to have a high-quality boat which is safe and easily used to store equipment.
Pros:
- Rides high for better visibility.
- Pontoons are 9 feet long.
- Includes 10 mesh pockets, 12 zippered pockets, and two insulated drink holders.
- Detachable foam fly patch for fishermen.
- Weather-proof motor mount.
Cons:
- Similar pontoon boats can be found for a lower price.
One thing that you should keep in mind with this product is that although it comes with a competitive number of features is that many people will soon discover that other similar models by the same manufacturer can be found for a lower price. If you are willing to sacrifice the quality of some of the features, the size of the pontoon, and other luxuries like the insulated drink holders, you might instead choose one of the less expensive pontoon boats which doesn’t have as many features.
Classic Accessories Colorado XT Inflatable Pontoon Boat
Specifications
- High-quality one seat pontoon boat.
- L x W X H: 108” x 56” x 26”
- Powder-coated steel tube frame.
- Pumpkin or sage/grey body color options.
- ABYC standard safety features.
- 400-pound capacity.
If you like the features and design that comes with Classic Accessories pontoon boats but are willing to invest a little bit of extra money for a better model, then this should be one of your top options. This model comes with removable pockets, two foam fly patches, two insulated drink holders, and non-slip adjustable footrests for a luxurious pontoon boat experience. With all of the bells and whistles you need to get on the boat and enjoy yourself all day, this is a very competitive option for the pontoon boater who knows that the quality of the experience is more important than the price tag.
With plenty of space for storing your supplies, and the ability to customize your experience with adjustable pockets, this pontoon boat can be easily turned into a mobile basecamp where everything you need is right next to you. It comes with all of the necessary features to align with the ABYC safety standards such as an anchor and is easily installed if you are familiar with pontoon boats or willing to invest the time to learn how to set it up properly.
Pros:
- Included with two foam fly patches.
- Pontoons are 9 feet long.
- 20 different pockets.
- Two insulated drink holders.
- Non-slip adjustable footrests.
- Removable stripping basket and side pockets.
Cons:
- Can be hard for beginners to learn how to set up
One thing to keep in mind that this model, as with any other high-end pontoon boat, can be very difficult to install and use properly if you are not familiar with the art of using a pontoon boat. Remember that all of the instructions supplied in your manual, such as where to place your seat and how to properly position all of the parts are crucial if you hope to have a positive experience with your new pontoon boat.
Sea Eagle Green 375fc Inflatable FoldCat Fishing Boat
Specifications
- High-quality one seat pontoon boat.
- L x W: 148” x 120”
- 1000 denier reinforced material.
- Green and grey body colors.
- Safety net.
- 650-pound capacity.
People who want to sit two or more people on a pontoon boat will soon discover that the price of having this boat is noticeably higher than if you simply purchase a one-seater. However, if you need to have two seats on your pontoon boat, this is one of the best pontoon boats for you to consider getting. Since there are two seats for this model, there is a higher weight capacity, allowing weights all the way up to 650 pounds including your equipment. Since the pontoons are considerably small (only 16 inches) they will inflate within 5 minutes and have you on your way quickly.
Both of the seats on this model can swivel, allowing you to view all 360 degrees of your surroundings without twisting your back to extreme levels. The model can work with either a gas or small electric motor, giving you an option to choose what type of resource you want to have to power your pontoon boat. Just keep in mind that you should expect a top speed of around 10 mph maximum with this kind of boat.
Pros:
- Two seats allow you to bring a friend along.
- Boasts a quicker process to install and clean up.
- The safety net will protect any gear that falls out of your lap.
- 3-year warranty.
Cons:
- Pontoons are only 16 inches long.
- Warranty process can be difficult to facilitate.
Before you purchase this boat, consider that the pontoons, although very buoyant, are only 16 inches. Think of these 16 inches as being the only barrier which separates you and your friend from falling into the water below with all of your personal belongings. However, if you follow the weight limit and are sure to balance yourselves and personal belongings effectively, this shouldn’t be too much of a problem. If you treat this boat with the love and care that it deserves, it will prove itself as one of the best inflatable pontoon boats for two people.
Classic Accessories Skagit Inflatable Pontoon Boat
Specifications
- High-quality one seat pontoon boat.
- L x W X H: 96” x 50” x 26.5”
- Powder-coated steel tube frame.
- Red and grey body color.
- ABYC standard safety features.
- 350-pound capacity.
This is another great inflatable pontoon boat which boasts a beautiful design featuring red and grey blended together perfectly. This is a pretty slim one-seat design which only measures 96” at its longest dimension. Although this means it comes with less pocket space than other similar models, it adhered to the ABYC safety standards, ensuring that you operate a safe boat which will keep you and your belongings safe from capsizing.
This boat comes with two large zippered pockets, and 10 smaller mesh pockets for allowing you to store your stuff. If you are only going out for an entire day, and simply want to carry a modest amount of supplies, this shouldn’t be a hindrance of any sort. The pontoon bladders are very well built, stretching 8 feet long and boasting resistance to heat and cold.
Pros:
- High riding design allows great visibility.
- Pontoons are 8 feet long.
- 2 large zippered pockets, 10 small mesh pockets, and two drink holders.
- Bladders are cold and heat-resistant.
- Non-slip footrests.
Cons:
- The metal frame can rust if not properly looked after.
One thing to keep in mind when you purchase this, or any other boat with a metal frame is that it is more susceptible to rust. As long as you take care of your frame after each use, you should never encounter this problem.
Classic Accessories Roanoke Inflatable Pontoon Boat
Specifications
- High-quality one seat pontoon boat.
- L x W X H: 96” x 55” x 29”
- Powder-coated steel tube frame.
- Blue and grey body color.
- ABYC standard safety features.
- 350-pound capacity.
If you are on a limited budget but still want to enjoy the luxury that comes with owning a pontoon boat, do not worry. This is perhaps the best affordable pontoon boat option that you will find, and be purchased by people in all budget ranges. Due to its affordable price, this is a great starter option for anybody who wants to try pontoon boating before deciding if it will be a long-term hobby of theirs. Additionally, it can also be used to add in other luxury accessories if you are willing to invest more money in the future.
As a result, this is a great option for somebody who wants to start pontoon boating now, and then later decide if they want to add in the nice features. Remember that things such as the plastic seat, amount of pockets, and so on can easily be upgraded with a little bit of know-how and careful installation.
Pros:
- Very affordable price for small budgets.
- Pontoons are 8 feet long.
- Two large armrest pockets and small mesh pockets.
- Adjustable non-slip footrest.
Cons:
- Not nearly as many luxury features as more expensive models.
Before you make a spur of the moment decision to purchase this inflatable pontoon boat, remember that although it is reasonably-priced that it doesn’t come with all of the features you might be looking for. For example, there is not too much pocket space and not any drink holders. There is also no anchoring system or motor mount. If you need to have these features included, you should first look at the slightly more expensive models.
What to Look for in the Best Inflatable Pontoon Boat
When you are shopping through the best inflatable boats, you might have a difficult time debating which product is better, why a certain boat is priced higher than others, and so on. Making a purchasing decision which is informed and conscious of all the different factors and features in a pontoon boat will help you to get the most out of your money, only getting the product that you need.
For your reference, we will now look at the features which you will debate options for inevitably. If you are new to shopping for pontoon boats, you will soon feel qualified enough to make an informed decision which will result in you having the pontoon boat that suits your budget and desires.
How Much Should I Pay for a Pontoon Boat?
Before you set aside your budget for a pontoon boat it is important to determine the maximum amount you can afford to spend. Just like many other products, there is a lot of potential money you could invest in it when you consider aesthetics, maintenance, luxury features, and whatever else you decide to do with your pontoon boat. However, if you have a small budget or a large on you will still be capable of getting a high-quality pontoon boat to suit your wallet.
For example, many of the best inflatable pontoon boats with entry-level features can be priced at or around $200, whereas the top models can be as high as $2000 when you consider the other things you might want to use, such as a pontoon boat grill, fishing rod holders, and whatever other features you might consider adding on. Keeping these factors in mind, the amount you should pay for a pontoon budget depends on how passionate you are about boating, what you are willing to pay, and the features you want.
What is the Most Durable Body Material for a Pontoon Boat?
Remember that the purpose of having a pontoon boat is that is floats on the water using buoyant (and soft) pontoons. Typically these will be placed in a position which will keep them relatively protected from the unexpected floor of a river or lake. However, it is just as likely that you have a rear, side, or front collision using your pontoon boat, making the need for durable material necessary.
Typically, the best pontoon will have steel frames to protect from any sort of accident such as a collision. However, another popular material is reinforced denier, which is also pretty sturdy against crashes. However, if you are the kind of person who is rather safe than sorry, you might opt to be safe and simply get a pontoon boat with a steel frame. Just keep in mind that purchasing a metal frame means you will need to look out for rust.
How Many Seats Should I Purchase?
Think of getting a pontoon boat with an additional seat or two as similar to purchasing another pontoon boat. If you want to go boating with a friend or family member, you might instead decide to get a separate boat since it will end up costing a similar price. However, if you want to add an additional seat, you should expect to have enough space to store yourself and your entire extended family. Most pontoon boats which have more than one seat will only offer two or three seats. In any case, consider getting more than one pontoon boat unless circumstances prohibit you from doing so.
How to Purchase the Best Inflatable Pontoon Boat?
If you simply want the best inflatable pontoon boat, you will first need to decide how much money you will spend. Since there is a seemingly endless list of items you can add on to your pontoon boat, deciding your budget is the first step. Once you have a maximum price that you are willing to pay, it is best to select a pontoon boat which doesn’t take up your entire budget. You will likely want to then invest in things like a motor, fishing rod holders, or maybe even a pontoon boat grill.
A good rule of thumb is to have your pontoon boat itself take up 40 – 50% of your entire budget, leaving the rest for all of the other accessories that you will want to add into it. If you can do this, you will ensure that your pontoon boat will be completed and ready for immediate use. Imagine sitting around all day on a lake while using a pontoon grill to cook fish that you just caught using your included fishing rod holders and bait.
Best Inflatable Pontoon Boats: Summary
Finding the best inflatable pontoon boats can be difficult if you are unfamiliar with what features you should expect for this product, what price you should pay, and so on. If you want the best inflatable pontoon boat that can sit more than one person, start by looking at the Sea Eagle Green 375fc Inflatable FoldCat Fishing Boat. However, if you are looking for the best one seat option available, you should first consider the Classic Accessories Colorado XT Inflatable Pontoon Boat. In any case, make sure to look over all of the best inflatable pontoon boats before making a final decision. Lastly, anybody on a tight budget should first take a look at the Classic Accessories Roanoke Inflatable Pontoon Boat before considering other options.