Deck Boats vs. Pontoon Boats: Which is Right for Your Family?
So you've finally decided to invest in a boat for your family - that's great! We're all about the boating lifestyle here at Gemlux and want to welcome you to the "family." One question you're going to have to consider is whether you want a deck boat vs. pontoon boat. Here is a quick comparison guide to help you make this important decision.
Overview of Deck Boats
Deck boats have a v-shaped hull that allows them to slice through the water at speeds up to 70 mph with the right inboard/outboard motor. They have a fiberglass hull that will last a lifetime if properly cared for.
A deck boat is perfect for smaller groups for fishing, water-skiing, tubing, or cruising on the water at high speeds. Because the boat is made from molded fiberglass, it is less customizable than a pontoon boat, and deck boats also tend to be the more expensive option if you're looking for a lot of features.
Overview of Pontoon Boats
Pontoon boats have a flat hull that floats on a pair of aluminum tubes. Some models, known as tri-toons, will have a third tube for added stability. Pontoon boats are perfect if you plan to do a lot of fishing. They give you more room to maneuver when you're reeling in dinner, and their flat surface makes them more stable even in choppy water.
With a proper motor, you can also water-ski or enjoy other water sports, although you won't be able to get up to speeds as fast as a deck boat. Pontoon boats are highly customizable and can carry more passengers and friends.
Comparing Performance and Handling
Deck boats have a slight advantage if you're looking for speed and maneuverability. They also produce a nice wake if you're towing a water skier or tuber who wants to catch some air. That being said, a deck boat is not going to be as stable or smooth as a pontoon boat in choppy water.
Whether you're on a calm lake or out on the ocean in slightly rough seas, a pontoon boat's flat hull surface provides a smoother experience. They're comparable in handling when docking and trailering but for different reasons. Deck boats have less windage, while pontoon boats have a wider beam and twin engines.
Space and Comfort
Pontoon boats have a bit of an advantage when it comes to the space category. The surface of the hull is flatter and broader, so that means you have more surface area to play with. Pontoon boats are highly customizable when it comes to seating. You can add a sofa, a lounger, or some fishing chairs. A larger pontoon boat can comfortably seat up to 16 people!
Because of their rigid hulls, you will be more limited when it comes to customizing a deck boat. Most of the seating will face forward because of the speeds that are possible and a larger deck boat will be able to seat up to 12 people. Deck boats by their nature will have less storage space than a pontoon boat.
Activities and Versatility
Think about the activities you're most likely to want to do when debating a pontoon vs. deck boat. If you're looking for more speed for your water activities, such as skiing, wakeboarding, or tubing, a deck boat is your best option.
If you want to engage in more leisurely activities like fishing, cruising, or jumping off the boat for a swim, a pontoon boat is a better choice. More advanced pontoon boats, especially tri-toons, are getting faster with the right engine configurations, but they're still not as nimble as a deck boat.
Maintenance and Durability
The fiberglass hull on a deck boat can last as long as 50 years if it is meticulously maintained. The boat needs to be wiped down after every single day that you spend on the water. If you don't do this, water stains will quickly set into the fiberglass, marring its appearance and reducing its lifespan.
Pontoons are made from aluminum, so they don't require a daily wipe-down after use. However, they are less durable with most pontoon boats having a lifespan of up to 20 years. No matter which type of boat you choose, expect to have the engine service once a year or every 100 miles, whichever comes first.
Budget Considerations
Deck boats without any bells or whistles can be purchased in the $10,000 range. Just don't expect them to have much in the way of amenities. A well-equipped deck boat can cost as much as $100,000. Due to faster and more powerful engines, expect a deck boat to cost more in terms of fuel needs. Since fiberglass hulls can have a very long lifespan, deck boats retain their value much longer than pontoon boats.
A base model pontoon boat will cost in the $20,000 range while more luxurious models can run into the $200,000 range easily. A pontoon is more fuel efficient than a deck boat, so you'll save money on fuel costs over the life of the boat. Pontoon boats only have about a 20-year lifespan, so expect them to depreciate very fast. You can expect to lose 85 to 90 percent of the boat's value after a decade of use.
Family Needs and Preferences
Since you're investing in a boat for your family's enjoyment, the most important consideration should be what your primary boating activities will be. If speed and adventure are more your style, a deck boat could be the better option.
For a lazy day on the water fishing and a more stable ride while entertaining guests is your goal, a pontoon boat would be the better choice. Pontoon boats are better when you have young children and deck boats can be better when you have more adventurous teenagers. Be sure to match the type of boat that you purchase with your lifestyle and plans.
Welcome to the Gemlux Family!
We recommend taking both types of boats out for a test drive before you buy. No matter what you choose in the deck boat vs. pontoon boat decision, Gemlux is here to help you equip your purchase! We have high-quality boat shades, deck hardware, and much more available in our catalog.