Are you thinking about investing in a pontoon boat? There are several different models and styles of pontoons, from ten-person dive boats that launch through waves to two-story party boats that are more like floating restaurants or bars than boats.
Pontoon boats are one of the more popular choices for freshwater boating. They make ideal houseboats, and the stability offered by the dual or single pontoons make for stable living out on the water.
Pontoon boats aren’t as maneuverable as other designs like center consoles and bay boats. However, they don’t suit the same purpose as these boats. Pontoons are for cruising on lakes or estuaries. They make great on-water accommodations, and they have enough space to take more than a dozen people out on the water with you for a good time.
Driving a pontoon boat is a little different from your average watercraft. This boat’s handling, speed, performance, and functionality are unique to other boats. As a result, you need a customized driver strategy to keep your vessel and your passengers safe while out on the water.
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How To Drive A Pontoon Boat
Learning to drive your pontoon boats requires you to understand the nuances of starting the vessel, moving it out of the berth, and operating it on the water. Functions like steering and acceleration are all very different dynamics to traditional performance-style boats like center consoles.
The difference in design between pontoon dual or triple hulls and the V-shaped hull of performance boats means that you get a very different driver experience out of the vessel.
Sailing Out of the Dock
The unique design of the pontoon boat means that you’ll have to pay attention to factors like wind speed and water conditions when leaving the dock. If you’re dealing with windy conditions, you’ll have to learn how to thrust the throttle to compensate for any directional change caused by the wind.
When you clear the dock, rev the engines and slowly move away from the berthing area. If the wind is strong, try reversing out of the dock for better control over your speed and direction.
Acceleration and Speed
After you leave the dock and head to open water, you can open the engine a bit more. However, before opening up the motor, you’re going to need to assess the water conditions and traffic around you. Look at all the boats in eyesight and mentally map their trajectory. Make sure you stay out of the path of any other vessel nearby.
When you get out to the open water, you can start opening the motor up when you get to around 100-yards from shore. Make sure you apply a smooth power curve to the throttle to prevent the lifting of the boat’s bow.
Pontoons are not high-performance boats, and they are more for cruising than any other water activity. Therefore, you need to consider that when easing on and off the throttle. These boats also have more weight than other models, and the inertia from the oat requires compensating with throttle play, especially when returning to the marina.
Maneuverability and Control
The pontoon boat is longer and wider than most other boats. Therefore, they have a wider turning circle.
While they have a design that prevents capsizing, taking a sharp turn at speed could lead to disaster. The pontoon requires careful maneuvering, so take it slow.
Docking and Beaching
Pontoon boats spread the weight of the boat across two or three pontoons. As a result, they make ideal vessels for reaching shallow water. The boats have a low draft, and they can skim along in the shallows.
However, you’ll need to be careful as you make your way closer to shore. Look out for people in the vicinity, and pay attention to signs of submerged objects like rocks and trees.
Trim your speed and reduce the draft as you start approaching the shoreline. Back the throttle down as the engine begins gasping for air.
When it’s time to dock, pay attention to the wind and how it hits your boat.
Enter the marina slowly and leave the engine idling until you are in the fully docked position. If there is a light wind, you can cut the throttle and let it gently drift you into the dock.
Is It Easy to Drive a Pontoon Boat?
Pontoon boats have a design suiting slow driving. As a result, it’s relatively simple for anyone to drive a pontoon boat – it’s hard to make a mistake with them. However, the larger size of the pontoon models and the positioning of the captain’s cabin may cause less visibility closer to the sides of the boat than with other models.
The pontoon boat is a great choice for boating beginners who want a model for cruising and spending time on the water with family and friends. If you’re looking for a boat for watersports, this isn’t the right choice.
Most people find that they pick up the basics of driving the boat within an hour of taking the wheel. If you have vehicle driver experience, you’ll probably get the basics down in a few minutes.
Driving a Pontoon Boat In Rough Waters
Driving a pontoon boat in calm water conditions is easy for most people. However, when the water turns rough, that’s a different story. To navigate a pontoon through rough waters requires extra driver skill and some experience behind the wheel.
Part of being a responsible pontoon boat owner means that you know the limitations of your abilities and your boat. Never go out in conditions where you think there is a risk of putting people in danger. It’s better to call off that boat party than end up with a boat full of terrified people looking to you for guidance in an emergency.
While the pontoon boat is very stable in calm waters, it becomes challenging to manage when conditions turn rough. As a result of the pontoon hull design, you don’t get the same maneuverability in choppy water.
However, the primary cause of concern for pontoon captains is the wind. The wind hits the vertical sides of the pontoon, causing you to drift off course. If you are not paying attention or you aren’t at anchor, you may drift ashore and run the boat aground.
If you find yourself navigating rough waters in your pontoon boat, give these tips a try.
Avoid forcing turns in strong winds if it doesn’t feel right. A strong gust could end up pushing the boat over, capsizing the vessel. If you see a storm approaching or hear a bad weather announcement on the radio, it’s a good idea to start heading to the dock right away.
When navigating through waves, keep the nose of the pontoons above the waves to prevent nosediving that may create a sinking or swamping risk. Ensure that everyone is wearing their safety jackets and frequently check for each other.
Trim the throttle before hitting a large wave to launch the boat over the wave instead of under it. If you’re not confident about sailing through the water, it might be a better idea to drop anchor and wait out the storm rather than risk swamping or sinking the vessel.
Safety Tips for Driving a Pontoon Boat
Safety is a critical aspect of driving any boat. However, the pontoon model can usually accommodate far more passengers than a performance boat, and the captain is responsible for the lives of everyone aboard the vessel.
Before you leave the dock for your aquatic excursion, take a minute to give your passengers a safety briefing. Ensure that everyone has their life jacket and that they fit it securely before leaving the dock.
Inform the passengers of their duties and responsibilities, and ask if they have any questions or need clarity on anything they need to do while out on the water. Ensure that the passengers remain seated while the boat leaves the dock and in motion.
It’s a good idea to file a float plan with someone at the shore. The plan lets them know when you will return, where you are going, and who to contact in case of an emergency. Check the weather before you leave and make sure you’re sailing in conditions where you’re confident of your driver skills.
According to the American Boating Association, there are just under 5,000 boating accidents every year. So, make sure you’re following the rules of the water. Don’t drink and drive your boat; it can cause danger for passengers and other vessels. Plus, it’s very challenging to dock the boat correctly when you are not sober-minded.
Driving Tips for New Pontoon Boat Owners
Driving your pontoon boat out on the water comes down to applying common sense to the situation. If you’re a green boat driver, the following tips will help you get more pleasure from your first experience driving your pontoon boat.
Slow and Safe
When you’re docking or leaving the dock, make sure you take it slow. In many cases, the wind will do the work of moving the boat to or from the dock for you.
Pay attention to your surroundings when docking your boat. Use side fenders to protect the boat’s sides from contacting the dock, damaging the vessel and the pier.
Plan Your Packing
Make sure that you comply with weight limits for your vessel when packing for your boat trip. Overloading the vessel is the number one cause of capsizes.
Know the boat’s weight limits and pack the equipment and luggage strategically to prevent overloading one side of the boat.
Understand Rules and Laws
Learn your state’s rules and laws for operating a boat. Some states require mandatory minimum ages and licensing requirements before you can take any boat out on the water.
Keep an Eye on the Wind
The wind is a concerning factor for pontoon boat owners, more so than owners of other models.
Most pontoon boats feature high, straight sides to optimize interior cabin space. However, while it’s a great design for packing people onto the boat, it also acts as a sail to the boat.
Strong winds and gusts can shift the pontoon boat off course easily. Therefore, captains must watch the wind and their course direction in rougher conditions.
Keep the Props in the Water
The propeller on a pontoon boat must stay in the water when turning the vessel. It takes some time to master this art, and captains should avoid operating the props outside the water to prevent engine damage.
Docking Guides
Use someone onshore to guide you into the dock if possible. The person can guide you in and tie off the boat, making the pr0ocess easier for the newbie captain.
Listen to Your Instincts
Boating requires you to listen to your gut instinct. Much of what happens on the water can be avoided by listening to your gut when a sticky situation occurs.
If you get the impression that it’s better to call it for the day and return to the dock, listen to your gut rather than push your luck.
What Gear Do I Need for Driving a Pontoon Boat?
Whether you’re buying a new pontoon boat or purchasing a pre-owned model, there is standard gear that you’re going to need to take along with you on your first boating trip. Here is our list of essential equipment for optimizing your pontoon boating experience.
License and Registration Number
Licensing and registration requirements differ between states. Make sure you understand the local needs for documentation and keep it onboard your boat at all times.
Safety Gear
Ensure that you have all the safety gear you need aboard your boat. You’ll need life jackets for everyone, and throwable PFD, a medical kit for emergencies, and a fire extinguisher. Other useful equipment ideas to take along with you include signaling flares, an air horn, and a GPS.
Trolling or Outboard Motor
The pontoon boat is a cruising design best for use on calm waters in marinas or lakes. They don’t suit use on open water out on the ocean as the design can’t handle rough water very well. So, attaching a trolling motor or low-power outboard motor is usually the best option when choosing a powerplant for the boat.
Fish Finders
A fish finder is a great choice for people that enjoy fishing. The fish finder locates the shoals of fish in the water for a better fishing experience.
Knife/ Multitool
You never know when a knife can come in handy when you’re out on the water. From cutting lines to gutting fish, a sharp blade is necessary for your gear list.
Snacks and Water
Pack enough water, beverages, snacks, and supplies to feed everyone when you are out on the water. It’s always a good idea to bring a bit more if you end up in an emergency where you are out on the water for longer than you expect.
Docking Light
The docking light makes it easier for people to identify your boat while moving through the marina or out on the water during low-light conditions.
Optional Gear for Driving a Pontoon Boat
Music
Take along a stereo system for the ultimate party out on the water. You get options for mp3 players and large speaker systems to enhance your experience.
Captain’s Chair
Captain’s chairs are comfortable, and they are essential for fishing.
Bimini Top Shade
Keep the sun out of your eyes and keep your passengers cool with a removable Bimini top for the boat’s deck and the captain’s console.
Accessories
Add floating docks, coolers, and other accessories to make everyone’s time out on the water that much more enjoyable.
Pontoon Boat FAQs
While learning to drive a pontoon boat isn’t exactly rocket science, there are a few things that new captains need to look out for when handling their vessel. Here are a few FAQs to help you answer a few beginner questions on how to drive a pontoon boat.
Q: What is the best type of pontoon boat for beginner drivers?
A: Pontoon boats don’t require expert handling, and they are easy to drive. Therefore, when selecting your boat, it’s more important to worry about features and amenities for your guests than the vessel’s performance.
Q: Do I need a license to drive my pontoon boat?
A: Some states may require you to have a license to drive a pontoon boat. Check with your local authorities to find out the regulations of driving boats in your state.
Q: How many passengers can I get in a pontoon boat?
A: Pontoon boats are available in a range of sizes and designs. You get some that suit eight to ten people and others that can carry up to 40 or 50-passengers at a time. It depends on what you want to use your pontoon boat for and how many passengers you want to take out on the water.
Q: Is a tri-hull pontoon boat fast than a dual-hull model?
A: The pontoon boat is not a model with a design for speed. Adding an extra hull to the boat doesn’t increase its speed on the water. A tri-hull model will offer you exceptional stability out on the water.
