Kevin JohnsonPontoon boats offer several benefits over other vessels. These floating living rooms are stable, versatile, reliable, and easy to handle, perfect for beginners and seasoned boaters. However, not all pontoons are created equal. The best pontoon boat brands strike a balance between speed, comfort, fuel efficiency, and affordability.
The top pontoon boat brands design watercraft with comfortable seating and amenities like cupholders, coolers, and tables. These features allow everyone on board to relax and socialize out on the water. Consider whether you need a fishing or recreational vessel when selecting pontoon boats. Some manufacturers offer 2-in-1 hybrids that serve both markets. But which are the best pontoon boat brands?
Here is an in-depth analysis of the 15 best pontoon boat brands:
1. Manitou
Manitou is a Lansing, Michigan-based pontoon boat brand founded in 1985 and produced by BRP Inc., a global leader in powersports and propulsion systems. This BRP Inc. brand offers high-performance luxury vessels with state-of-the-art features. In Jan 2024, the Manitou Explore MAX won the BOATING Magazine’s “Boat of the Year” award in the pontoon boat category. You can buy the 2024 Explore to access innovations like MAX Deck Design, Dual Rotax S Outboard Engines, and iDock joystick piloting. [1]
Image source: Manitou Pontoon Boats
Pros: Manitou is known for its innovative technologies, features, and designs. The brand offers advanced multi-purpose pontoons for all boaters, from avid fishermen and anglers to recreational sports enthusiasts. Each Manitou vessel excels in speed, stability, and safety.
Cons: Manitou is a premium, high-performance pontoon boat brand. Its vessels cost more than the market’s average.
Price Range: $47,295-$174,500
2. Godfrey
Godfrey is a tritoon and pontoon boat manufacturer founded in 1958 and based in Elkhart, Indiana. It offers Monaco, AquaPatio, Sweetwater, Xperience, Mighty G, Sanpan, and XP pontoon series in the US, Canada, and the Caribbean. Each has several models with unique layouts and features. In Jul 2023, NMMA recognized 94 Godfrey pontoon dealers with the 2023 Marine Industry Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Awards. [2]
Image source: Godfrey Pontoon Boats
Pros: Godfrey pontoons are renowned for their quality and innovation. The brand prioritizes simplicity, functionality, practicality, and riders’ experience. For example, its pontoons are designed with enlarged saddle brackets and tubes to enhance stability in rough waters.
Cons: Godfrey’s Monaco and AquaPatio pontoon series are expensive. However, its pricing covers all price points. You can find high-quality entry-level Godfrey pontoon boats for less than $30k.
Price Range: $27,895-$137,985
3. Bennington
Bennington is a leading luxury pontoon boat brand founded in 1997 and based in Elkhart, Indiana. The company manufactures vessels with intricate parts and innovative designs. In May 2024, the Bennington S Series pontoon was honored as one of the Boating Industry’s 2024 Top Products. The model’s fit and finish offer elevated sophistication and performance. [3]
Image source: Bennington Marine
Pros: Bennington pontoon boats offer innovative features, from ergonomic lounges and seats to high-tech electronics, enhancing comfort and convenience.
Cons: Bennington is a luxury pontoon brand. Its high-end vessels can be pricey. However, the latest Bennington S models prioritize luxury without sacrificing affordability. You can buy this entry-level pontoon boat to access high-end features.
Price Range: $30,364- $125,662
4. Harris Boats
Harris is a pontoon boat brand founded in 1957 and based in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The brand started as a wooden boat builder and expanded into high-tech, sleek pontoons. Its pontoon boat series includes the Cruiser, Crowne, Grand Mariner, Solstice, Sunliner, and Breeze. In Aug 2024, Harris launched its first all-electric pontoon, the Cruiser e-210, powered by Mercury Avator 35e Outboard. You can buy this eco-friendly vessel to reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying the comfort, amenities, and style like the Cruiser model. [4]
Image source: Harris Boats
Pros: Harris is an innovative and award-winning pontoon boat brand. Its high-tech pontoons excel in comfort, luxury, and performance. Each Harris model has a spacious open floor plan to accommodate the whole family and enhance movement. Eco-conscious boaters can buy the new Cruiser e-210 electric pontoon to explore the waterways sustainably.
Cons: Harris’ Crowne, Solstice, and Grand Mariner pontoons are expensive. However, look for entry-level to mid-market boats in the brand’s Cruiser, Sunliner, and Breeze series.
Price Range: $28,745-$280,300
5. Lowe Boats
Lowe is a leader in full-featured aluminum boats. Its pontoon series includes Ultra, RS, SS, SF, and LS. The brand also offers the Deck Boat, combining pontoon and Deep V features. In Aug 2024, Lowe launched its all-new LS Pontoon line with four length options from 17 to 23 feet. The LS offers luxury comfort, sleek and spacious designs, high performance, and multiple layout configurations. [5]
Image source: Lowe Boats
Pros: Lowe has built reliable boats for over 45 years. The brand offers durable aluminum pontoons known for their quality and affordability. You can buy the 12-passenger Lowe SS 230 boat with dual helm convertible lounger for $29,000.
Cons: Lowe prioritizes functionality, comfort, and capacity over aesthetics. It isn’t as stylish as other pontoon boat brands.
Price Range: $18,150-$59,840
6. SunChaser
SunChaser is a boat builder founded in 1903 and based in Canyon Lake, Texas. The brand has several pontoon models with innovative features. In 2024, Boating magazine recognized the SunChaser Calais 23 LR DH as one of the best premium family-friendly pontoons. This model uses SunChaser’s X-Treme PR25 performance package and a Yamaha F300 engine, delivering a 45.2 mph top speed and reaching 30 mph in 5.5 seconds. [6]
Image source: SunChaser Boats
Pros: SunChaser has over 120 years of boatbuilding experience. The brand offers affordable, high-quality pontoon boats with innovative features. For example, the 2024 SunChaser Calais has X-Treme PR25, Performance Shield underskin, SeaStar hydraulic steering, and Heavy Hat construction. These features deliver smooth rides while enhancing the boat’s durability.
Cons: Some SunChaser customers complain about limited storage space.
Price Range: $29,999-$74,995
7. Princecraft
Princecraft is a leader in electric pontoons. It offers seven pontoon boat series: Vogue, Jazz, Vectra, Brio, Quorom, and Sportfisher. In Jan 2024, Princecraft launched the new Vectra 23 WRL, Ventura 230 WRL, and Brio 2.0 electric pontoons at the 2024 Toronto Boat Show. These three innovative models are powered by Mercury Marine’s electric Avator outboards. [7]
Image source: Princecraft
Pros: Princecraft offers industry-leading electric pontoons. It is the go-to pontoon boat brand for eco-conscious boaters. The new Vectra 23 WRL, Ventura 230 WRL, and Brio 2.0 provide eco-friendly pontoons for boating enthusiasts seeking to minimize their carbon footprint.
Cons: Some boaters complain that Princecraft’s electric pontoons are underpowered and slow.
Price Range: $23,500-$94,500
8. Sun Tracker
Sun Tracker is a Springfield, Missouri-based pontoon boat manufacturer founded in 1983. The brand specializes in fishing and recreational pontoons. Its top-selling models include the Bass Buggy 16 XL and Party Barge 22 DLX. According to Boating Magazine, Sun Tracker’s Party Barge 22 DLX is one of the best pontoon boats for families. Its classic interior layout and patented Stow-More system create a comfortable space for all family members. [8]
Image source: Sun Tracker Boats
Pros: Sun Tracker is a budget-friendly pontoon boat brand. It uses quality control models to reduce wastage and production costs, delivering affordable, high-performance boats. The Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 XL is only $16,995. This pontoon can accommodate seven people, perfect for family outings or fishing trips with your buddies.
Cons: Some boaters complain that Sun Tracker pontoon boats are underpowered.
Price Range: $16,995-$52,995
9. Avalon
Avalon is a leading luxury pontoon boat manufacturer founded in 1972. Its watercraft have features for cruising, entertainment, fishing, or waterslides. For example, the Avalon Catalina Cruise Funship has an elevated slide linked to the upper deck with a queen-size lounger. This slide sends riders flying into the water.
Image source: Avalon Pontoons
Pros: Avalon has over 50 years of boatbuilding experience. The brand offers award-winning luxury pontoon boats with innovative features, stylish design, and comfortable seating. For example, the Avalon Catalina Cruise Funship has a 14-person capacity.
Cons: Avalon’s top-end pontoon boats are expensive. You’ll need $75k to own the Avalon Catalina Cruise Funship. However, the brand also offers affordable pontoon for around $20k.
Price Range: $20,000-$142,780
10. Regency Boats
Regency is a luxury pontoon boat brand. Its top-selling pontoons include the 230-DL3, 250-DL3, 230-LE3, and 250-LE3. Each model offers comfort, convenience, and performance. In 2024, the Regency 250 DL3 and 250 LE3 were featured on US News’ Best Pontoon Boats of 2024 list. Both have a 14-person capacity, perfect for entertaining family and friends or large groups. [9]
Image source: Regency Boats
Pros: Regency offers an all-inclusive luxury pontooning experience. Its stylish models exude luxury, comfort, and performance. If you want to entertain your family and friends on the water, consider the Regency 250 DL3 or 250 LE3 with 14 seating capacity.
Cons: Regency doesn’t offer cheap entry-level pontoons for less than $50k. Some vehicles can’t tow the large and heavy Regency 250 DL3 and LE3.
Price Range: $59,995-$91,995
11. Starcraft
Starcraft offers 10 pontoon series, including LX, SLS, EX, EXS, and EX Fish. Each series has several models with different layouts and innovative features. For example, the Starcraft SLS has performance-enhancing HMX tubes for increased speed, better lift, less surface drag, and improved maneuverability and handling. Starcraft recently refreshed its lineup with innovative designs to compete with luxury pontoon boat brands. [10]
Image source: Starcraft Marine
Pros: Starcraft prioritizes simplicity, versatility, and affordability. It is the go-to pontoon boat brand for beginners. The Starcraft LX 16 R only costs $22,960, perfect for first-time boat owners.
Cons: Starcraft pontoons may not meet the needs of extreme boaters and fishing enthusiasts. For example, the Starcraft LX 16 R is small, slow, and basic. It is perfect for beginners, not seasoned boaters.
Price Range: $22,960-$189,600
12. Berkshire Pontoon
Berkshire is a Forest River, Inc. division founded in 1996. It offers four pontoon series: LE, STS, CTS, and Sport. One thing that sets Berkshire apart from competitors is its unique, one-piece fiberglass composite decks. These materials are two times stronger and 40% lighter than standard marine-grade plywood. They also resist rot and buckling, ensuring durability and safety. [11]
Image source: Berkshire Pontoons
Pros: Berkshire is an innovative pontoon boat brand. It uses strong, lightweight composite decks to develop fast, fuel-efficient vessels. Buy the Berkshire 23 Ultimate Lounger to explore waterways with up to 14 family members and friends.
Cons: Berkshire has limited variety. Its high-end pontoon boats are expensive.
Price Range: $22,900-$239,900
13. Sylvan Marine
Sylvan is a boat builder founded in 1948. Its 2024 lineup includes the Mirage X, Cruise, and Mirage Fish. The Mirage Fish is the perfect pontoon for anglers. You can buy the Mirage X if you prioritize luxury and entertainment. If you seek a versatile and affordable pontoon boat, consider the Mirage Cruise. [12]
Image source: Sylvan Marine
Pros: Sylvan has over 75 years of boatbuilding experience. The brand uses exclusive RPT (Revolutionary Planing Technology) tubes to enhance performance and fuel efficiency. You can customize the Sylvan Mirage Cruise to suit your unique preferences and boating lifestyle.
Cons: Sylvan has limited variety.
Price Range: $12,000-$168,999
14. Premier Marine
Premier is a 30-year-old luxury performance pontoon boat brand based in Big Lake, Minnesota. The company holds several patents and trademarks, including the PTX tech and the Premier Ricochet Ladder System. It sells its pontoons through American and Canadian boat dealers. In Jan 2024, Premier unveiled new features, models, and an innovative trolling motor system. The brand redesigned its Sunsation Angler series to create an intelligent, fish-ready pontoon. [13]
Image source: Premier Pontoons
Pros: Premier caters to all boating enthusiasts with 6 pontoon series: Sunscape, Sunsation, Intrigue, Solaris, Supersport, and Escalante. Each has several models with unique features. For example, you can buy the all-new PTX 28 Angler pontoon to access Premier’s innovative Troll & Stow system.
Cons: Premier’s top-end pontoon boats are expensive.
Price Range: $16,200-$265,800
15. Bentley Pontoons
Bentley is a pontoon boat brand. The company designs and produces most components in-house, including furniture, canvas work, tubes, and fence railing. It offers 5 pontoon series: Bolt, Elite, Legacy, LE, and Fish. In Aug 2024, Bentley expanded its partnership with Boat Fix to launch Bentley Gold 24/7 Assurance. New Bentley owners can rely on this program to access a complimentary three-year emergency mechanical advisory and a one-year free subscription to Boat Fix monitoring. [14]
Image source: Bentley Pontoons
Pros: Bentley is committed to superior quality and meticulous craftsmanship. The brand offers the ultimate luxury and performance at affordable price points. You can buy 2025 Bentley pontoon models to access Bentley Gold 24/7 Assurance powered by Boat Fix.
Cons: Bentley specializes in small to mid-sized pontoon boats.
Price Range: $26,500-$88,500
References & more information
- BRP, Inc. (2024, Jan 10). Manitou Redefines Design and Sets a New Standard as BOATING Magazine’s Pontoon Boat of the Year. BRP.com
- Godfrey Marine (2023, Jul 24). Godfrey Pontoons receives the NMMA Marine Industry CSI Award. Marine Business World
- GLSB Staff (2024, May 4). Bennington’s S Series Pontoon Boat Earns Top Product Honor from the Boating Industry in 2024. Great Lakes Scuttle Butt
- Harris Boats (2024, Aug 28). Harris Boats launches its first all-electric pontoon, the Cruiser e-210, powered by Mercury Avator. Brunswick
- Lowe Boats (2024, Aug 10). Lowe Boats launches all-new LS Line of Pontoons. Sail World
- Boating Tech Team (2024, Apr 30). 2024 SunChaser Calais 23 LR DH: A sleek, family-friendly pontoon. Boating Magazine
- McVinney, R. (2024, Jan 22). Princecraft Boats Unveils 3 New Models at Toronto Boat Show 2024. Boats.com
- Boating Tech Team (2024, Apr 30). 2024 Sun Tracker Party Barge 22 DLX: The best choice for getting the family out on the water. Boating Magazine
- John, S. (2024, Sep 13). 7 Best Pontoon Boats of 2024 for a day on the water. US News
- McNamee, T. (2024, Feb 12). 2024 Starcraft SLS: Maximum comfort. Power-Boating
- Colby, E. (2024, Sep 5). Pontoon Builder Restructures Marine Team. Trade Only Today
- Goodhue Boat Company (2024, Mar 12). Exploring the 2024 Sylvan Pontoon Models: A Comprehensive Comparison. GoodhueBoat.com
- Premier Marine (2024, Jan 9). Innovation Leads Premier Into 2024. Pontoons.com
- Boat Fix (2024, Aug 14). Bentley Pontoons adds Boat Fix Boat 24/7 alarm support to all 2025 models. Power Boat
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