Should You Buy a Pontoon or a Tritoon?
Are you thinking about purchasing a boat but unsure whether you should opt for a pontoon or a tritoon?
The experts at New Jersey Outboards have created this guide to talk about the differences between the two types of boats so you can choose a model that’s perfect for you. If you have any questions or want to look at pontoons for sale, visit us in Bayville, NJ, where we happily welcome our friends from Philadelphia, PA. However, before you make your final decision, check out our handy guide.
What’s the Difference?
Pontoons are named after the tubes that allow them to float. These tubes, attached to the bottom of the hull, give the vessels the stability they need to keep you safe on the water. Standard pontoons come with two tubes, one on each side of the boat.
A tritoon is also a type of pontoon that uses three tubes — one on each side of the boat and an additional one in the middle. This extra tube gives a tritoon its large shape, making it an ideal vessel for bigger groups and families that want a little bit more space in their watercraft.
Size
As we have already mentioned, a tritoon is the perfect option for families that need a bigger boat for their outings. Depending on the model, a tritoon will be anywhere between 22 and 30 feet, and it can easily accommodate up to 25 passengers. Since these vessels come with larger engines, they pack more power to let you enjoy a more thrilling time on the water.
On the other hand, a pontoon is a smaller vessel that usually accommodates between 8 and 20 passengers. Though it will come with a smaller engine and less storage space than a tritoon, you can rest easy knowing that your pontoon boat will have enough room for you and your family.
Expenses
For budget-focused individuals, pontoons are the more affordable options as compared to tritoons. On average, you’ll find a price gap of about $15,000 between the two types of boats. However, the actual cost will depend on the model and included features. You may find a used tritoon boat that’s cheaper than a brand-new pontoon with added features. While you are planning your budget, remember to consider additional costs like maintenance and storage fees.
Environment
Before making your final decision, you’ll also want to consider the body of water you intend to visit with your boat.
If you plan to take your vessel on the smooth and gentle waters of a lake or a river, a pontoon boat will be ideal for you. These vessels are much more stable and designed for various watersports activities, including fishing, swimming, and wakeboarding.
On the other hand, you’ll want to go with a tritoon if you plan to frequent large, choppy waters. A bigger size, its ability to handle rough waters, and a better buoyancy and more horsepower make these vessels an excellent option for larger groups and watersports enthusiasts looking for the ultimate thrill.
We hope this guide helps you choose the right boat for your lifestyle, regardless of whether it’s a tritoon or a pontoon. To look at our impressive inventory of pontoon boats for sale near New York, visit New Jersey Outboards in Bayville, NJ, where we proudly serve those from Philadelphia, PA.