When To Upgrade Your Pontoon Boat
When To Upgrade Your Pontoon Boat
Once perceived as a humble, simple, slow lake cruiser for old people, pontoons have gained new traction as times have changed. The new generation of pontoons are more versatile than ever and come with modern conveniences such as luxe features, speeds up to 75 mph, joystick docking, towsport packages, smartphone controls and even full galleys.
There is no doubt about it, new pontoons are drastically different from what you were likely used to growing up. Here are some upgrades and exciting new features to consider that may just mean it’s time to upgrade your pontoon.
A Smooth Ride
Large lakes can be extremely choppy and with the increased popularity of wake boats it can turn the waters into what feels like a bathtub that bounces waves back and forth creating big chop. With today’s performance pontoons, the construction has evolved to be heavier duty than ever. Barletta’s are built with a strong frame and innovative features such as I beam crossmembers. Their patented underdeck structure featuring VIP Technology provides the smoothest, quietest, rattle-free ride in the industry - bar none.
Captian’s Helm
When it comes to purchasing a boat the buyer is most likely to be the one spending the most time in the driver's seat, which is why it's important to ensure its comfortability. Most Barletta’s offer a raised helm and all offer extended legroom. Simrad and Lowrance displays also give you complete control of the pontoon and bluetooth audio creates the easiest audio experience. Other awesome features we love include USB chargers throughout the boat and a wireless charging pad for the captain!
Bimini Top
This key component is essential for the comfortability as well as aesthetic of the boat. Biminis are used primarily to protect you from the sun and offer a shaded spot for you to sit. Most brands include a standard manual bimini but not many offer an electric bimini as a standard option like Barletta Boats does. The electric bimini make it as easy as a push of a button to escape that hot summer sun. Not to mention it takes the hassle and frustration out of putting up and taking down the bimini because all you have to do is remove the boot and press a button.
Performance Options
Depending on how you like to use your pontoon you may need extra horsepower to accommodate. You can go from 50 HP to 450 HP to everything in-between. I also recommend upgrading to three toons instead of two, you will gain 50% more buoyancy. Today's pontoons are fully capable of tow sports and can be a great option for water sport enthusiasts. All Barletta’s can tow tubers, wakeboarders, and water skiers! Read here to learn how to set up your pontoon best for each.
Pet Friendly
Boat dogs are a captain’s best friend and that's why Barletta Boats are the most pet-friendly boats in the business. Every single Barletta has an integrated pet food & water dish built directly into the helm that pulls in and out for easy storage. For the shorter pups the DoggieDockView offers see-through bow and port gates, making it the perfect viewing spot for pets. The stow-away table that tucks into the port bow lounge acts as an additional shade canopy and the perfect spot for your pets bed. All of the vinyl materials used on Barletta pontoons are scratch and tear-resistant, so feel free to let your pet get comfy the seats - worry free.
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