The surest way to make an appropriate selection is to learn how different boat options perform in various applications. By comparing the boats, it becomes easy to discover which is more suitable for a specific use.
Both pontoon boats with deck and deck boats are versatile vessels that are ideal for fishing, cruising, watersports, and a host of other water-based activities. Even though they offer similar benefits, they couldn’t be more different.
This blog post compares key features of pontoon vs deck boats and highlights the construction, pros, and cons of each boat, enabling buyers to make a profitable decision.
Introduction to the Pontoon Boat
A pontoon boat is one of the most common boats on the water. It features a spacious deck and is powered by an outboard engine. This section discusses the construction, advantages, and disadvantages of pontoon boats.
Construction of Pontoon Boats
Regular pontoon boat with deck has two round air-filled tubes or ‘pontoons’ that come to a point at the boat’s front. Although pontoons were originally made with two tubes, modern pontoons now have three. This allows for bigger engines, which ensure additional strength and rigidity, as well as provide better handling and stability.
The pontoon’s deck is mounted on the cross beams and the support channels provide rigidity to the boat. Materials used for making the deck include marine-grade or treated plywood, aluminium, vinyl boards, and composite boards.
The deck perimeter is secured with aluminium fencing and side panels before the lounge, electrical systems, and other interior parts are added. The performance and durability of the boat are mainly determined by the quality of the construction materials, the craftsmanship, and the engineering.
Pontoon boats employ an outboard engine and either have a single or dual-console design. They range between 18 ft and 28 ft in length.
Pros of Pontoon Boats
- Spacious and Comfortable Seating: Pontoon boats with decks are renowned for their space. It is one of their most popular features. These types of boats are constructed with a rectangular base and wide beam that offer a spacious layout with plenty of room for gear. They also have completely flat surfaces, which allows for easy moving around and lounging.
Pontoon boats are designed to maximize space and allow the installation of ample seating. Many of these boats can seat as many as 12 passengers comfortably, making them perfect for large family outings or hangouts with groups of friends.
- Stable and Smooth Ride: Pontoon boats are stable while cruising on the water. Their two or three pontoons ensure a solid surface that improves stability on the water and guarantees a smooth ride. They provide adequate rigidity when stepping on board or navigating through turns.
With a deck that seats above the water because of the tubes underneath, pontoon boats deal with less resistance. This makes them easy to navigate, especially in shallow waters. Although they are still subject to the waves, the boat remains stable enough to accommodate even passengers who suffer from seasickness.
- Versatile Applications: Due to their comfortability, stability, and promise of a smooth ride, pontoon boats are great for a wide variety of activities, including leisure cruising, fishing, wakeboarding, tubing, and skiing. Their high versatility means they can easily be adapted for many purposes. For fishing trips, these boats make excellent freshwater fishing vessels and also provide plenty of room for gear.
In the cases of tubing, skiing, and wakeboarding, pontoon boats offer the best deal as they have enough space to accommodate multiple people while providing comfort.
Cons of Pontoon Boats
- Limited Manoeuvrability in Tight Spaces: Due to its structure and resulting hydrodynamics, a pontoon boat is not the best choice for tight corners and hairpin turns. It is not as manoeuvrable as other types of boats. This makes fishing in tight channels or docking obstacles difficult when using this boat.
- Relatively Low Speed: Pontoon boats are not very fast when compared to other types of traditional fishing or speed boats. While some can go as fast as 33 to 35 miles per hour in extreme circumstances, most pontoon boats have an average top speed within the range of 18 to 28 mph. Although this low speed contributes to their stability, it becomes a disadvantage when a rapid pace is required.
Introduction to the Deck boats
Deck boats do not have as much space on their decks as pontoon boats, but they are also commonly found on the water. This section details the construction, advantages, and disadvantages of deck boats.
Construction of Deck Boats
Deck boats, as the name implies, are vessels with large decks. Its construction allows a comparatively bigger bow than is found in other boats, creating space for seating, stowage, and movement on the boat. For reference, a deck boat is similar to a stretched-out bow-rider.
In place of the taper end pontoons found in pontoon boats, deck boats have a v-shaped hull that enables them to cut through the water smoothly and perform at high speed. They are designed to offer as much space as possible, covering about 102 inches in width (max allowed in many regions). These types of boats can be powered by an outboard engine or an inboard/outboard drive.
Usually, deck boats are constructed from fibreglass as it allows manufacturers to minimize production costs. However, modern boats made from aluminium can now be found in the market. Another material used in making deck boats is composite laminate, which is combined with fibreglass to create a more water-resilient material. The boat is then layered with gel coat resin.
There are various options of deck boats and some are specifically designed for certain purposes. For example, fishing-designed deck boats may have more additional storage than leisure-designed deck boats. Many deck boats have a length of around 22 ft, with a size range between 18 and 25 ft.
Pros of Deck Boats
- Excellent Speed Capabilities: Deck boats initially became popular for being high-speed vessels suitable for groups. Because of its v-shaped hull, this boat can cut through water quickly and smoothly.
Due to this feature, they offer high speeds that create a wake on which the boat ‘surfs.’ Unlike many other boat types, deck boats can achieve great paces even under rough waters.
While there are deck boats with low horsepower and output, it is common to see deck boats with average speeds of over 70 miles per hour. They have different engine options with superior acceleration and because they are smaller, they can be easily fitted with advanced engines that assure greater speeds.
- Watersports Capabilities: Deck boats can slice through water very fast and often come equipped with components, like tow towers or pylons, that improve their suitability for various watersports, such as skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and more. As a result of its size, a deck boat can entertain many people. For this reason, they are often for group water sports.
Their width and good level of stability ensure an exciting experience for watersports enthusiasts. Sports models of deck boats come with easy-to-use features, including boarding ladders, that make water activities hassle-free and fun. They also have a rear-facing seater that enables a spotter to sit and watch skiers and wakeboarders comfortably.
Cons of Deck Boats
- Limited Seating and Space: Although deck boats have more room than many moulded fibreglass boats, they provide less space for movement and socializing. Also, having seats that only face forward, the seating pattern of these boats does not encourage flexibility. Since deck boats are mostly designed for speed and to have a sleek and sporty look, manufacturers usually have to make concessions that reduce the space.
- Fuel Consumption: Deck boats are notorious for being gas-guzzlers. Their v-hulls allow for quick acceleration and high speed compared to pontoon boats and this increases their fuel consumption. In addition, deck boats are loaded with heavy components, such as furniture and amenities, that affect the level of fuel consumed by the boat.
Deck Boat vs Pontoon: Comparison of Key Features
In this section, the key features that makeup pontoon and deck boats are compared and contrasted. Learning these differences is the best way to know which boat is more suitable for various applications.
Design and Layout
One of the standout differences between deck boats vs pontoons is their hull design. Pontoon boats typically have a multi-hull design comprising two to three tubes or ‘pontoons’ that provide stability and buoyancy. The deck of pontoon boats is mounted flatly on the tubes. This keeps the boat steady during rides.
Deck boats have a v-shaped hull that enables the boat to cut through the water smoothly while cruising. This design gives the boat better performance and manoeuvrability in choppy waters. However, its v-hull allows the boat to be easily moved by waves and winds or passengers moving on the boat.
Another key design difference between deck boats vs pontoon boats is their layouts. There are various floor plans available in the market for pontoon boats. There are also a wide array of add-ons for these boats, such as fishing chairs, live wells, and onboard bars. In contrast, deck boats do not have as many options for customization and are less diverse with their floorplans.
An important feature of boats is their seating layout. A most common arrangement found in a deck boat comprises a U-shaped seating in the bow and an L-shaped lounge area in the back of the boat behind the captain’s seat. On some models, a straight lounge can be found across the back of the stern.
For pontoon boats, many variations of seating layouts exist as manufacturers now develop seating arrangements with their models. A common layout is the CS or L-shape, which features two benches in the bow and a curved front. The helm and captain’s chair will reside at the back of the boat accompanied by an L-shaped bench.
Stability and Ride Quality
Pontoon boats rest above the water because of their construction, so they do not face much resistance. This results in a very stable boat that is not always influenced by wave or wind motion. In addition, the deck of this boat lays flat on the pontoons, providing a surface with superior stability that passengers can move around on.
Unlike pontoon boats, deck boats will move back and forth with the wind or when in rough seas because it cuts through the water in a v-shape design. While this design allows for great acceleration and higher speeds than pontoon boats can offer, it also means deck boats won’t be as stable.
Because of their v-hull structure, deck boats create a more bumpy ride than pontoon boats. Since they already float on the water, pontoon boats can plane out easily, even with heavy loads.
For a great ride, boats need to combine enough power and speed while moving through the water. For deck boats vs pontoons, the structure of deck boats enables them to slice through the water while maintaining high speeds. When fitted with a sizable inboard/outboard or outboard motor, deck boats can provide better handling and ride quality on the water.
Deck boats are easier to handle, offer superior turning at a great pace, and guarantee a relaxing time when riding. However, with their increased speeds, deck boats consume more fuel than pontoon boats. They also easily get splashed with water when cutting into waves.
In comparison, pontoons are a little clumsy in handling and move at a slower pace than deck boats. Also, because of its design, more caution is required when executing sharp turns in a pontoon boat.
Cost and Maintenance
Generally, deck boats are significantly more expensive than pontoon boats. But, in recent times, advanced developments have been made with pontoon boats and the cost of deck boats has been considerably optimized, so much that the price difference between the boats has relatively narrowed.
Also, in comparing the cost of pontoon vs deck boats, the choice of engine is important as it can impact the overall cost of the boat. Albeit, even though prices will vary depending on the style, design, model, and engine of the boat, oftentimes, deck boats cost more than pontoon boats of similar size and quality.
Maintenance is easier with pontoon boats because of their aluminium parts. It’s simple and fast to clean these boats compared to deck boats, which are commonly made of fibreglass. Maintenance is especially important for pontoon boats because while an unclean hull will slow both boats down, it is quickly noticeable in pontoon boats.
On the flip side, deck boats can be tasking to clean, particularly the ones lacking in maintenance. Hence, it’s important to wipe down the fibreglass hull frequently. The gel coat should be wiped thoroughly to handle water spots. Other maintenance methods, such as buffing and waxing, are also necessary for deck boats.
Also, repair costs for deck boats vs pontoon boats are cheaper for pontoons. A tube can be quickly repaired or replaced without much hassle. But repairs for deck boats are usually more in-depth and costly. More time and money are spent trying to fix deck boats.
Applications
- Watersports: Deck boats are generally faster than pontoon boats and they are commonly outfitted with high-power engines. Hence, they are better suited for water sports. In addition, deck boats are more manoeuvrable than pontoons, making them advantageous activities where sharp turns are required.
- Fishing: Pontoon boats float on the water and have more space than deck boats for people and gear. This makes them the preferable platform for fishing. Notwithstanding, deck boats also have great deck space for catches and gear and can accommodate enough people.
- Leisure: For deck boats vs pontoons, there are only a few things that can be done with one boat that cannot be done with the other. Both boats are great for leisure cruising, although, because of their spacious platform and flexible arrangements, pontoon boats have some added advantages for lounging and entertaining.
- Family Gathering: Pontoon boats provide sufficient room for a large family to soak up the day. Offering a high level of stability, it is perfect for families with toddlers and older members. Deck boats also make for a good space for families, however, they may not be stable enough for young or very old members.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Deck Boats vs Pontoon Boats
Before investing time, money, and energy into any of these boats, there are factors that must be considered in order to choose the appropriate one. This section highlights some of these factors.
Determine the Main Purpose of the Use
When choosing between deck boats vs pontoons, it’s important to consider the main purpose of purchasing the boat. Some questions that need to be asked include: What water-based activities are the boat going to be used for? How many people will be on the boat for a typical outing? How fast does the boat need to go? And what size of the engine will be required for its purpose?
Answering these questions helps in making it easier to know which boat to select. If the boat’s main use will require a lot of space on the deck, like for family gatherings, then a pontoon boat will be preferable. But if speed is essential, then it will be better to choose a deck boat.
Consider the Amenities
After deciding on the boat’s main use, another factor to consider is the type of amenities that the boat will have. Fishing boats can be customized with fish finders, rod holders, a satellite radio, and various other fishing gear, while luxury boats may have higher helms, sunbeds, dual captain chairs, and generous storage space. The boat must be customizable enough to contain the required amenities.
Set a Budget
A budget is one of the most important factors in selecting between deck boats vs pontoon boats. These two boats have varying prices depending on the style, design, model, and engine of the boat. With a budget, it’s easier to know what options are available. In figuring out the budget, the maintenance and storage costs must also be factored in.
Storage and Trailering
Before choosing between deck and pontoon boats, knowledge of towing and trailering requirements is necessary. This also includes information on how to load and launch the boat and choose the right trailer size and style. Some regions and countries work with specific installation laws, hence, familiarization with the legislation in that location is necessary.
Storage of the boat should also be considered. With so many ways to store a boat, such as indoor boat storage, outdoor boat storage, dry stacked storage, etc, it’s essential to know which is the best option to store the selected boat.
Boating Conditions
Boating conditions, like water roughness, weather, wind speed, and water waves require detailed analysis before choosing between pontoon vs deck boats. Deck boats offer some level of stability when riding in choppy waters, while pontoon boats are not easily affected by water waves. Selecting the most suitable option means analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of these boats in the weather conditions of their region of use.
Choose a Proper Floating Dock for the Boat
Floating docks are an ideal solution for boats in areas where the water level changes are huge. They aid in boat protection and provide safe access to boats. Here are some factors to consider in choosing a floating dock.
Customization Options
Floating docks come in various sizes and heights with different layouts and anchoring options. The best floating docks are made to specifications that allow for their optimal use. When purchasing these modern docking solutions, it’s best to work with experts that can create premium tailor-made products.
High-Quality Construction Materials
Long-lasting and effective floating docks are made with high-quality raw materials. Hence, you want to inspect the quality control processes of the manufacturer you choose to work with. Ensure that only superior-quality plastics are used in constructing your floating dock products.
Conclusion
This guide highlighted the key features of pontoon vs deck boats and compared their various characteristics to enable you to decide which is best for different applications.
Hiseadock is a certified plastic floating dock system manufacturer with over 10 years of experience in this industry. We manufacture and supply superior plastic floating docks, accessories, and tools at very competitive prices. You can contact us to purchase durable and top-quality floating docks for your brand.
