Deck Boats vs. Pontoon Boats

Looking for a boat that's agile and versatile, as well as plenty of space to entertain? Many boat enthusiasts turn to pontoons and deck boats as the perfect mix of outdoor fun and boating. In this post, we'll explore the pros and cons of each boat to help make your decision easier. Don't forget to contact Rockingham Boat in Hampstead, New Hampshire, serving all of Manchester and Nashua.

Costs

Deck boats will usually run more than a pontoon. However, the pontoon boat industry has recently started to manufacture luxury models that can equal deck boats in cost. It's also beneficial to understand that roughly 50% of your boat investment goes to the engine price.

Characteristics

Created similarly to fiberglass runabouts but with more room, deck boats usually come equipped with bimini tops, carpeting, and upholstery accents. The exterior designs are often colorful and aggressive enhance its profile. While more straightforward, pontoons can get creative these days with colorful graphics, high-quality vinyl seating, and durable marine-grade carpet. If you want extra storage and seating, a pontoon boat is your best option.

Stability and Handling

Deck boats use V-style hulls that cut through the water, accelerating more quickly than pontoon boats. Pontoons, however, are more fuel-efficient. Deck boats are known for their stability at any speed, as well as exceptional turning ability. Although most pontoon boats have less power, they provide more buoyancy. 

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Pontoons and deck boats are both exceptionally easy to use. Both have stable platforms and can be launched with ease. Whether you decide to invest in a deck boat or a pontoon, you'll want to perform regular maintenance. Pontoons will be far easier to clean and maintain because they're aluminum, as opposed to deck boats, which are fiberglass.

Which Is More Versatile?

Versatility is why Deck / Pontoon boats are so popular these days.  Both boats offer plenty of watersport opportunities, such as tubing and waterskiing. Both models are also perfect for camping excursions, entertaining, and cruising. If you plan to do a lot of fishing, the pontoon boat is the best option. While deck boats might have the leg up in terms of performance, pontoons have a more stable platform, making them ideal for casting and reeling in fish.

You really can't go wrong with either boat. Both are versatile, roomy, and fun. To learn more, visit Rockingham Boat today. We have a large selection of both new and pre-owned deck boats and pontoon boats to choose from at our Hampstead, New Hampshire showroom, where we serve all of Manchester and Nashua.