Should I get a pontoon for the ocean?

[ubetdavid]

Hi there, newbie here planning to trade/sell my SeaDoo Challenger for a larger, more comfortably riding boat to use in the ocean in Miami. Like to entertain and the wife likes pontoon-style boats. Heard pontoons are good with fiberglass deck boat bottoms. Just want for period trips up Biscayne Bay and maybe to Elliott Key once in a while with wife, kids and some friends. Any advice out there from previous/current 'traditional' or 'deck boat' pontoon owners who use them for the ocean? Really appreciate any advise or constructive criticism about these boats and the ocean. Thanks very much!

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Should I get a pontoon for the ocean?

A standard pontoon is out of the question for the ocean. Taking a wave over the bow of pontoon creates an instant submarine. They will pop back up as soon as the prop comes out of the water, but the angle of rebound is nearly equal to the angle of insertion so the backward pitch of the boat will take people off their feet and very likely pitch someone overboard. A deck boat is certainly a consideration but you should do a considerable amount of research before popping for one. Hate to see you spend the money on a boat that does not work out for you.

 

[ubetdavid]

Re: Should I get a pontoon for the ocean?

Thanks very much for the advice!

 

[southernboater]

Re: Should I get a pontoon for the ocean?

We have a 22ft pontoon and use it regularly for inshore fishing, shrimping, cruising. We love it. If you stay inshore, you should not have any problems. However, if you want to get off shore - I would explore other options.

 

[ubetdavid]

Re: Should I get a pontoon for the ocean?

Thanks for the advice. Have decided to get a deck boat instead.

 

[Boss Hawg]

Re: Should I get a pontoon for the ocean?

Thanks for the advice. Have decided to get a deck boat instead.

I've only had one 16' Deckboat but i would'nt take it out on a lake on a windy day let alone the ocean

 

[Nismospeed]

Re: Should I get a pontoon for the ocean?

I've only had one 16' Deckboat but i would'nt take it out on a lake on a windy day let alone the ocean

Mine was 18'....agreed. If you go deck, get something substantial. I would say probably a 22' or better with a good wide beam on it.