Pontoon boats are one of the most popular and hottest-selling boats in the country. With 95% of pontoon boat consumers purchasing vessels under 26 feet in length and millennials forging a whopping 37% of all boat purchases, I am featuring 10 of the most exciting and popular pontoon boats that consumers are loving based on superior functionality, design, craftsmanship and size.
So whether you are currently in the market for a new pontoon boat or just doing your research, you have come to the right place. We have researched and revew 10 of the best and most popular pontoon boat manufactures and models.
Top Pontoon Boats
- Avalon 2585 VBR Catalina Versatile Rear Bench
- Bennington 25 QX Quad Bench
- Lowes SS 210 Conversion Lounge (CL)
- Sea-Doo Switch Cruise
- Premier 330 Escalante
- Manitou Explore 24 Max Navigator
- Harris Grand Mariner 250
- Princecraft Vectra 21 RL
- Sun Tracker Sportfish 24 XP3
- Starcraft SLS 3 Q DH
About Pontoon Boats
Pontoon boats are one of the hottest types of watercraft on the market today. In my opinion, pontoon vessels are a popular pick because of their versatility, stability and sheer fun on the water. Additionally, these watercrafts are eco-friendly – possibly even reducing our carbon footprint – a factor that many feel is driving the market as the industry focuses more and more on being powered by electric and hybrid engines. Not only has there been an increase in sales this year, but also an increase in rental service among this class of watercraft. Pontoons can also be outfitted with a third pontoon which increases the stability. We call this a Tritoon. Interestingly, each pontoon can be replaced individually which can make repairs cost effective – instead of having to replace the whole bottom of a boat if you have an accident – you only have to replace one.
Avalon 2585 VBR Catalina Versatile Rear Bench
Avalon, a privately owned company in Michigan, began producing their pontoon boats over fifty years ago making it a classic player in the industry. They have won the notable NMMA CSI Award for outstanding customer service many times over. The Catalina series boasts a wealth of models to choose from, including the Catalina, Cruise Funship, Elite, Quad Fish, Quad Lounger, Rear Fish, Rear Lounger, Versatile Rear Bench, and Versatile Rear Lounger. The Catalina Cruise Funship is an exciting double decker waterslide because it is perfect for families with kids or just a cool modern hang out for millennials who are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the urban scene.
Out of all the models the Avalon 2585 VBR Catalina Versatile Rear Bench shines as a perfect blend for all boat-goer types. It is designed for families, anglers and sport towing buffs who enjoy the ultimate comfort. It comes in two sizes: 23 and 25 feet in length and boasts versatile seating that can be transformed into multiple layouts including a lounge area, a combined rear and front facing area, a tranquil sunbathing platform or simply a private space for teens. As a parent, I love the double cup holders for no-spill drinks and the swivel slide recline on the captain’s chair so I can monitor the little ones as well as see all sides of the boat safely while navigating the waters. Lastly, let’s not forget an awesome hydraulic tilt steering wheel, horse power up to 300, highly customizable storage spaces, and a rear station with an extended stern deck good for both fishing and launching water sport activities. Although being a steeper item ticket, the Catalina met all of my needs.
Features
Feet: 25’
Beam: 8.5’
Boat Capacity: 14 people
Transmission: Outboard
Scores (10 being best)
Fishing Functionality=8
Performance/Ride = 9
Fine Touches / Amenities = 10
View Avalon Pontoon boats for sale on Boatzon
Check out Avalon Pontoon’s website
2023 Bennington 25 QX Quad Bench
Founded in 1997 by several industry veterans, Bennington Pontoon Boats produces lavish aluminum pontoon boats that both look great and gives a smooth ride. Currently there are four lines: Q line, R Bowrider Line, LX Sport Line, and the LX Line with sizes ranging from 20 to 31 feet.
The flagship of this luxury pontoon producer is what we picked for this year’s line up. The QX and the QXSport are dashing beauties of a boat, picking up speed beginning last year when the standard-beam twin engine models became an option. Impressively, the QX series has 38 models from which to choose. One of the most popular floor plans this year is the Quad Bench configuration. It maximizes storage, seating capacity, and lounge space. Additional features such as a sleek Fastback stern with speakers, a wireless charging station including high-speed USB-C and USB-A charging ports are also make it a winner.
The Bennington 25 QX Quad Bench is definitely one of the sexier vessels in our line up with the two-Tone Pillow Top diamond stitched upholstery, handsome tapered windshields, 13 color illuminated speakers for music connoisseurs and the interior light dimmer that sets the mood for any occasion. Whether it’s a romantic evening or a sport filled fest with friends, Bennington has all the details.
Features
Feet: 27’3’
Beam: 8.5”
Boat Capacity: 14 people
Transmission: Outboard
Scores (10 being best)
Fishing Functionality=5
Performance/Ride = 10
Fine Touches / Amenities = 10
View Bennington’s Pontoon boats for sale on Boatzon
Check out Bennington’s website
Lowes SS 210 Conversion Lounge (CL)
Dating back to 1971 in Lebanon, Missouri, Lowes Boat’s modest origins began with the husband-and-wife duo, Dianna and Carl Lowe. Lowe’s line focused on the manufacturing of high-quality aluminum boats and canoes for American families. Today, although their name has changed, their reputation remains the same: reliable with a good price point. I like the fact that both a woman and a man designed this boat together so that both genders could include what was important to them.
The Lowes SS pontoon series truly offers a range of perfect boating needs and that is why it is in the line-up: mercury outboards, repositories for fishing, wakeboarding, water towing accessories as well as under-deck areas and above deck storage which can be locked. I love that it offers QuietRide technology with foam lining to reduce friction and rattle. Also, every Lowe’s Boat over 150 HP comes with a Triple log which includes lifting strikes and a wave tamer to deflect water and reduce surges from the bottom of the boat. I picked the SF 212 because its mid-range price is affordable for most budgets while still offering a blend of fishing, sporting and cruising options. For anglers, the casting deck with dual aft pedestal seating and an accessible central livewell is a favorite. For those of us who like to lounge, there are comfortable areas for relaxing and entertaining. Also, parents can de-stress, knowing there are dual gates separating the swim deck at the stern from the rest of the boat.
Lowe’s boats use an Aluminum Alloy 5052 alloyed principally from Magnesium and Chromium, meaning it is corrosion resistant, which is another great feature.
Features
Feet: 22’
Beam: 8.6”
Boat Capacity: up to 9 people
Transmission: Outboard
Scores (10 being best)
Fishing Functionality = 6
Performance/Ride = 9
Fine Touches / Amenities = 8
View Lowe’s Pontoon boats for sale on Boatzon
Check out Lowe’s Pontoon website
2023 Sea-Doo Switch Cruise
The Sea-Doo Switch pontoon has made waves since it first arrived on the market in 2021 and this year it continues to grab a significant portion of the pontoon market with sales soaring.
This Canadian brand, manufactured by Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), is one of the world’s largest producers of snowmobiles, airplanes and trains. All the models, the Switch, Switch Sport, Switch Cruise and Switch Cruise Limited, are tritoons with the center toon sitting higher which make you feel like you are literally standing on top of the water. I like that they all include a trailer and come in compact sizes which is great for storage without compromising speed and power. Equally appealing is the full swim platform with LinQ attachments for water sports activities. The color selections are bright coming in popping yellow, lava red and Caribbean blue. The most unique features in my mind are the jet ski handle bars offering a heightened level of fun, control and maneuverability; the impeller-driven waterjet engine; and the removable floor panels with complete reconfigurable seating.
The Switch Cruise which comes in 130, 170 and 230 HP has storage under every seat and has an IBF button which stops debris created from weeds and shallow water from slowing down your ride.
My selection rests on the fact that, as a larger compact vessel in the series, families and groups can enjoy the boat together. I recommend this pontoon not only because of its novel fun features, but also because it is a fantastic beginner boat to learn on.
Features
Feet: 13, 18 & 21
Beam: 7.8”
Boat Capacity: 8-10 people
Transmission: Jet propulsion
Scores (10 being best)
Fishing Functionality = 5
Performance/Ride = 8
Fine Touches / Amenities = 7
View Sea-Doo Pontoon boats for sale on Boatzon
Check out Sea-Doo’s Pontoon website
2023 Premier 330 Escalante
Making a splash this year with the Sunsation Angler Innovation Award in pontoon manufacturing for dual sport versatility, Premier seems to know that bigger is definitely better. This year’s edition of Premier Escalante is a magnificent feat of architecture. This home away from home has a bed, a refrigerator, multiple couches, drawer storage, a winding stairway leading to an upper deck, teak flooring, plush seating, top of the line fabrics, stainless steel finishes, a pub booth, a pop up yeti cooler, a 10’ power bimini, and RGB lighting throughout the vessel creating an unbeatable ambiance. In my opinion, the Escalante stands out because of its craftsmanship and appeal to a wide variety of boating consumers. A sophisticated club hangout boat for millennials by night and perfect refuge for family get togethers by day. Climb on to the Escalante for the ride of your life. If you are the type of pontooner who is always entertaining family and friends – then this is the pontoon for you!
Features
Length: 33’5”
Beam: 10’
Boat Capacity: 20 people
Transmission: Outboard
Scores (10 being best)
Fishing Functionality = 6
Performance/Ride = 8
Fine Touches / Amenities = 9
View Manitou’s Pontoon boats for sale on Boatzon
Check out Premier’s website
Manitou Explore 24 Max Navigator
Manitou pontoons come in several models: the Cruise, Explore, Explore dual engine, LX and XT. The Manitou Explore 24 Max Navigator, however, stands out to me because it appeals to consumers who enjoy forward looking, technologically savvy designs while maximizing space and functionality at the same time.
Without a doubt, my favorite top two features of this modern beauty of a boat are the hidden inboard engine and the extended 4 foot stern deck. If I was to pick a third impressive feature it would be the fact that, because the Rotax engine, available in single or dual options, is tucked beneath the deck, the ride is quiet even at high speeds. Sometimes it is just nice to hear more of nature and less of the boat.
Other great features are the 3-in-1 tri fold bench, which transitions between a bench, table, or an open space and the Switchback loungers with adjustable backrests converting from rear-facing to forward-facing seats.
Each Explore model comes with a gas assisted Sports Bimini offering 12 feet of coverage up to 55 mph so you can remain in the shade while either cruising or driving at top speeds. I also like that the speakers and cup holders are integrated into the walls further maximizing space, a trend that is becoming more popular in 2023.
Features
Length: 26’3’
Beam: 8’5”
Boat Capacity: up to 13
Transmission: Inboard
Scores (10 being best)
Fishing Functionality=7
Performance/Ride = 10
Fine Touches / Amenities = 10
View Manitou’s Pontoon boats for sale on Boatzon
Check out Manitou’s website
2023 Harris Grand Mariner 250
If you know anything about pontoons then you will know that Harris has set the standard for many pontoon features that we simply take for granted today. In 1999 Harris patented the first power bimini top using a flip of a switch and in 1990 Harris introduced the first rear entry gate on a pontoon which today are household features in the pontoon boating world. The Grand Mariner pontoon series 230, 250, and 270 is my choice for 2023. It comes in three different sizes 26′ 2″, 27′ 11″and 29′ 9″. I picked the 230 because it is the most economical of the three while still eluding luxury and power with speeds up to 300HP. The standard package includes a 12” bimini and with interior lighting.
Add-ons include lifting stakes, ski tow bar, saltwater options, wood trim, a changing room with a curtain and a stainless steel refrigerator. The boat capacity depends on how many tubes you put on the pontoon – with 2 tubes the Grand Marnier can hold up to 11 people and with 3 tubes it can hold up to 13 people. I can see why Harris picked this name for the series – Grand Marnier is a classic cognac brandy with a smooth full body character. Grand Marnier, the pontoon, boasts classic, refined design elements that rides smoothly on the waters. The experience is…heavenly.
View Harris’ Pontoon boats for sale on Boatzon
Check out Harris’ website
Features
Length: 26′ 2″
Beam: 8′ 6″
Boat Capacity: Up to 13 people
Transmission: Electric Outboard
Scores (10 being best)
Fishing Functionality=7
Performance/Ride = 10
Fine Touches / Amenities = 10
2023 Princecraft Brio 2.0
An innovation leader in the pontoon world, Princecraft, was founded by three brothers in Princeville, Canada and has been making aluminum boats and canoes since 1954. Princecraft continues to drive the industry this year with the Brio Electric series dedicated to electric power. The 2023 Princecraft Brio 2.0 has an unbeatable entry level price and features a livewell, swivel captain chairs perfect for anglers, an in-floor battery storage area and optional solar panels.
The Brio series includes the 210e, 190, 170 comes with three Torqeedo electric engine selections. The 3.0RL has 3000 W equivalent to 6 HP, the 6.0RL has 6000 W equivalent to 9.25 HP and the 12.0RL has 12 kW equivalent to 25 HP. The Brio can get up to 8.2 mph, has in-floor battery storage, ultra-light upholstery, an ice box, rod storage area and a privacy enclosure. This boat stands out because of its appealing price point, and environmentally conscious features.
View Princecraft’s Pontoon boats for sale on Boatzon
Check out Princecraft’s website
Features
Length: 21′ 7″
Beam: 8′ 1″
Boat Capacity: Up to 10 people
Transmission: Outboard
Scores (10 being best)
Fishing Functionality=6
Performance/Ride = 6
Fine Touches / Amenities = 7
Sun Tracker Sportfish 24 XP3
If you know anything about fishing you would know that it is legendary Bass Pro Shops’ founder Johnny Morris who started the now super popular Sun Tracker line in this year’s line-up! As expected this pontoon is outfitted to meet any angler’s key fishing needs. There is a rod tube holder and organizer, a starboard lockable rod box, a high-back swiveling helm bucket seat, a rotomolded and aerated livewell with a shutoff valve, and a lid with a ruler for measuring and weighing your catch.
I appreciate that it is outfitted with both a nose cone and wave deflectors for a drier ride at high speeds. The bow starboard couch has storage and the table and cup holders are removable. The sound and vibration fence insulation also aids in a quieter ride and the port has a wheel chair access gate for family or friends that need assistance. Bluetooth and USB connectors are available and there are optional fishing and trailer packages as well, making it a go to in the pontoon market. The Sun Tracker Sportfish 24 XP3 is a solid choice for anglers, cruisers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
View Sun Tracker’s Pontoon boats for sale on Boatzon
Check out Sun Tracker’s website
Features
Length: 26′ 2″
Beam: 8′ 6″
Boat Capacity: Up to 12 people
Transmission: Outboard
Scores (10 being best)
Fishing Functionality=10
Performance/Ride = 8
Fine Touches / Amenities = 7
Starcraft SLS 3
Since 1903 Starcraft Marine has been famed as leaders in the boating world by making innovative, affordable and high quality vessels. At a time when boats were being built from heavier wood, Starcraft was building boats from durable, lighter aluminum.
Currently, Starcraft offers 9 lines of pontoons from which you can select the best model to match your boating needs. This year’s Starcraft SLS series stands out from the pack with attractive pricing and attractive packages. I like that the SLS 3 includes the HMX Performance package in its base model which features a third center pontoon with lifting strakes to decrease drag, increase turning control, and making a smoother, safer ride with a limited lifetime warranty.
Add-ons include various sound packages such as rear facing speakers and subwoofers, upgraded rails, slate furniture, vinyl flooring, and a choice between power or digital steering.
View Starcraft’s Pontoon boats for sale on Boatzon
Check out Starcraft’s website
Features
Length: 24’8″
Beam: 102 inches
Boat Capacity: Up to 12 people
Transmission: Outboard
Scores (10 being best)
Fishing Functionality=6
Performance/Ride = 9
Fine Touches / Amenities = 7
The Best Center Pontoon Boats Wrap Up
Pontoon boats range in size from compact small pontoon designs to large pontoon boats built for luxury, fun and larger gatherings. Whether you want to splurge with a double decker pontoon or simply buy a smaller pontoon boat because it is more in your budget, pontoons are stable versatile water crafts. Saying “the top 10 pontoons” or “the best pontoon boats” is sometimes complex, as everyone’s needs, requirements, and budgets are different. Buying a new pontoon should be based on your personal needs and tastes. This year’s pontoon line up doesn’t leave any stone overturned. Literately speaking – there is a pontoon boat for everyone – discover which one is right for you and your boating needs.
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