Because of their design, pontoon boats provide nearly unlimited opportunities for customization and accessories. From rod holders and other fishing accessories to tables and trays, upgraded seating and flooring, and innovative storage solutions, Boat Outfitters has pontoon boat accessories to make your days on the water easier and more fun. » Read More
Tables
Storage
Furniture/Seating
Flooring
Accessories
Popularity of Pontoon Boats
Pontoon boats have become increasingly popular over the past few decades, particularly for recreational boating. They are one of the fastest-growing segments of the boating industry and are best for leisurely boating activities such as cruising, light fishing, and entertaining. They are not designed for high-speed boating or racing.
Because of their flat bottom and large surface area, they are also not recommended for use in rough water or strong currents. However, they are excellent for use on lakes, rivers, and calm coastal waters. Pontoon boat owners enjoy using their boats for family outings, social events, and cruising. They are also popular for fishing because of their stability and roominess, allowing multiple anglers to fish at the same time.
Additionally, pontoon boats are excellent for entertaining because they have plenty of seating and space for many amenities such as grills, coolers, and sound systems.
Pros of owning a pontoon boat:
Stability — Known for their excellent stability due to their design, pontoons provide a wide base and a low center of gravity, making them more resistant to rocking and rolling, especially in calm waters.
Capacity — Pontoon boats can carry more passengers and cargo than other boats of similar size. The wide deck allows for more seating and storage space, making them ideal for group outings or family activities.
Comfort — The flat deck provides an open and comfortable experience. Many models also come with amenities such as plush seating, entertainment systems, or dining tables.
Versatility — They can be used for a variety of activities, including fishing, skiing, tubing, and cruising. They can handle different water conditions and are suitable for both freshwater and saltwater environments.
Safety — Pontoons are generally considered safe, especially for children and inexperienced boaters. The high sides and stable design make it harder to fall overboard or capsize.
Cons of owning a pontoon boat:
Speed — They are not known for their speed. They typically have smaller engines and are not designed for high-performance activities such as racing or wakeboarding.
Maneuverability — Due to their size and weight, these boats can be challenging to maneuver in tight spaces or strong currents. They also have a larger turning radius, making them less agile than other boats.
Weather Sensitivity — They are not well-suited for rough waters or inclement weather. They are susceptible to wind, waves, and currents, which can make for an uncomfortable or dangerous ride.
Pontoon Boat Accessory Market
The popularity of pontoon boats has led to huge aftermarket accessory availability, offering a wide range of products that can enhance the functionality, enjoyment, and appearance of the boats. Some popular accessories include upgraded luxury seating and storage solutions, sound systems, lighting, navigational equipment, and fishing gear.
There are also numerous options for customizing the appearance, including decals, graphics, and specialized paint jobs. The accessory market for these boats caters to a variety of preferences and budgets, with options ranging from necessities to high-end luxury features.
The wide range of available accessories and customization options allows owners to personalize their watercraft to their specific needs and preferences.
Seating
Often include individual chairs, benches, and lounges, with a variety of materials and styles to choose from. Many aftermarket seating options also offer features such as built-in coolers, cup holders, and storage compartments.
A popular style of seating is the captain's chair, which typically features a higher backrest and armrest for added comfort and support. Swivel chairs are used, especially for fishing, allowing passengers to easily turn their seats to face different directions.
Lounges, similar to a couch in your living room, are by far the most popular seating option, offering a comfortable place to relax and soak up the sun while enjoying the water.
Trays
Trays are another popular accessory, and they range from simple folding designs to more elaborate models with integrated cup holders and storage. Trays purpose-built for convenient food and drink service on board are also available.
Trays are available in a variety of styles and designs to suit different needs and preferences. Some trays are designed to attach to the side railings of the boat, while others may be mounted on tables or seats. Some trays are foldable for easy storage when not in use, while others may be designed to be left in place on the boat.
They are typically made from lightweight materials such as plastic or aluminum and are designed to be portable and easy to clean. Further, many trays are equipped with non-slip surfaces to prevent spills and accidents.
Tables
With the open deck and space that these boats provide, tables are another popular accessory. These tables are typically made from materials such as plastic, wood, or aluminum, and are designed to be lightweight and durable for use in marine environments. Some tables are designed to be mounted on pedestals, while others may be designed to attach to side railings or seats.
Many tables are equipped with adjustable height settings and foldable designs for easy storage when not in use. Some tables may also include features such as built-in cup holders, snack compartments, or built-in umbrellas for added shade and protection from the sun.
Storage Bags and Containers
Pontoons offer great opportunities for storage compartments or storage bags and similar accessories to organize and keep belongings out of the elements. Some storage bags and containers are designed to be mounted on the boat for easy access, while others can be stored in under-seat compartments or other storage spaces on the boat. Some bags and containers may include handles or straps for easy carrying.
Much like tables and trays, there are storage compartments that fold out to organize dishes, fishing tackle, or trash cans onboard. As with many boats, a popular type of storage bag is the dry bag, which is designed to be waterproof or water-resistant to protect contents from moisture. These bags are ideal for storing items such as towels, electronics, and personal belongings that need to be kept dry while on the water.
Dog Drawers
These drawers are specifically designed to hold two standard three-cup stainless steel dog bowls, providing a convenient feeding station for your furry friend while enjoying your time on the water. Fabricated from King Starboard, the dog bowl drawers are an excellent investment that will last for many years. These drawers allow for easy access to your dog's food and water bowls while keeping them secure and in place.
The stainless-steel drawer slides make it easy to slide the drawer in and out, while the upper bowl retainer can be easily removed to create additional storage space for other items
Pontoon Boat Covers
Protecting your boat’s furniture and equipment from the damaging effects of weather and UV rays, which can cause fading, cracking, and deterioration over time is an important part of enjoying your boat. There are several different materials used for pontoon covers, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
One popular material for pontoon covers is polyester. Polyester covers are lightweight, easy to handle, and offer excellent resistance to UV rays and water. They are also affordable and can provide good protection for your pontoon furniture. However, polyester covers are not as durable as some other materials and may need to be replaced more frequently.
Another common material used for pontoon covers is vinyl. Vinyl covers are heavy-duty and offer excellent protection against rain, snow, and other weather conditions. They are also very durable and can last for many years with proper care. However, vinyl covers can be more expensive than other materials and may not be as breathable, which can lead to condensation buildup.
Canvas is also a popular material for pontoon covers. Canvas covers are heavy-duty, and durable and offer excellent protection against rain and UV rays. They are also breathable, which can help prevent condensation buildup. However, canvas covers can be more expensive than other materials, and they may not offer as much protection against snow or ice.
Gate Latches
Unique to pontoons are the gates that come built into the frame of the boat. A gate latch is a device that is used to keep a gate closed and is typically made from a sturdy material such as stainless steel or aluminum. When it comes to these boats, gate latches are particularly important because they can be subjected to a lot of wear and tear from the constant opening and closing of the gates. Be sure to check gate latches regularly and replace them as needed to ensure proper safety and function.
Fender Clips
Fender clips are small devices that attach to the boat's railing or other structure and hold the fender in place. They are typically made from durable materials such as stainless steel or aluminum and come in a variety of styles and sizes to fit different types of fenders and boats.
There are two main types of fender clips: rail-mounted and snap-on clips. Rail-mounted clips attach to the rail and allow the fender to be adjusted to the required position and snap-on clips attach to the boat’s structure with a simple snap clip that allows for easy removal when not in use.
Fenders
Fenders for these types of boats come in a variety of sizes and shapes and are typically made from durable materials such as vinyl or PVC. When choosing fenders, it is important to consider the size and weight of your boat, as well as the types of docking situations you may encounter. Be sure to choose high-quality fenders that are designed for the environment in which you intend to use them.
Pontoon Guards
These boats may be lower maintenance compared to most boats, but they are not immune to damage from docks, other boats, or hazards in the water. Scrapes and dings to the pontoon tubes can be unsightly and expensive to repair, making it important to take preventative measures. That's where PontoonGuard pontoon protectors come in.
These custom-engineered guards are designed to protect your boat from abrasion and damage from docks or other boats. The durable construction of the guards ensures they will withstand impact and continue to protect your pontoons for years.
The guards are easy to install with a 3M pressure-sensitive peel-and-stick adhesive, making it possible to quickly apply them to your boat without the need for costly professional installation. Each package includes two strips, allowing you to protect both sides of your boat.
In addition to protecting your boat, PontoonGuard pontoon protectors are also designed to increase safety. The special 3M reflective strip on the guards makes your boat more visible in low-light conditions, which can be especially important when boating at night or in areas with limited visibility.
These guards come in two sizes to accommodate varying lengths of pontoons, ensuring a custom fit for your boat. With PontoonGuard pontoon protectors, you will be able to worry less about damaging your boat and focus more on enjoying your time on the water.
Bimini Tops
Bimini tops are a canopy that provides shade and protection from the sun and rain. Bimini tops are typically made of canvas or another durable fabric that is resistant to water, mildew, and UV rays. They are supported by a frame made of aluminum or stainless steel that is attached to the boat's railing or deck.
The frame can be collapsible or removable, making it easy to store the bimini top when not in use. Some are designed to cover the entire deck of the boat, while others are smaller and designed to cover only a portion of the deck. Bimini tops also come in a variety of colors to complement the colors of different boats.
Spending long hours on a boat in the sun can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, especially for children or people with sensitive skin. A bimini top provides a shaded area where passengers can relax and enjoy the view without worrying about sunburn or heat exhaustion.
Dolly
A pontoon boat dolly is a specially designed cart or trailer used for transporting these boats over land. These dollies are equipped with a set of wheels and a sturdy frame (we have low profile and tall options) to support the weight of the boat while it is being moved. Pontoon boat dollies are commonly used by boat owners, marinas, and boat storage facilities to easily move them from the water to a storage area or maintenance facility.
One of the main advantages of using a pontoon boat dolly is that it allows boat owners to easily move their boats over land without the need for a boat trailer. This can be especially useful for those who do not have access to a boat trailer or do not want to invest in one.
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