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Why Does the Price of Pontoons Fluctuate so Much?

Mar. 1 2025 Buying Guide By Hawkeye Boat Sales

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1. Quality of Materials Used for Construction


  • Anodized Aluminum Rails: Provide a durable, corrosion-resistant finish.
  • Bench Bases: Materials can vary—aluminum, wood, plastic, or wrapped bases affect durability and cost.
  • Helm Area Construction: Is it made of fiberglass (more durable) or plastic (less expensive)?
  • Cushions: The length of the warranty, along with the firmness and quality of the foam and vinyl materials, can provide insight into the expected lifespan. 


2. Quality of Construction


  • Weld Quality: Are the welds smooth and anodized or appear as an afterthought?
  • Deck Attachment: Examine how the deck is secured to the crossbeams.
  • Exposed Wiring: Check for any visible wiring, which can indicate quality issues.
  • Deck Thickness: Pay attention to the thickness of both the deck and the crossbeams supporting it.
  • Brackets: Inspect the brackets connecting the toons to the crossbeams—note their thickness and shape.


3. Toon Packages


  • Size of Exterior Toons: Larger toons offer better buoyancy and stability.
  • Number of Toons: More toons generally mean better performance and higher costs.
  • Center Toon Design: Is it a ¾ toon, the same size as the exterior toons, or larger?
  • Aluminum Thickness: Consider the thickness of the toon walls and how the keel is formed for durability.


4. Options: Dash, Windshield, and Arch


  • Features: Options add up quickly; distinguish between wants and needs. Does the boat have: Ski Tow Bar In-Floor Storage Depth Finder Bimini Top & Cover RGB or Blue Lighting (and where)?
  • Full Windshield: Often costs over $8,000. Weigh the pros and cons of this feature.
  • Sport Arch: Fiberglass or steel options can exceed $16,000. Consider shape, functionality, and usability.
  • Electronics: Assess the capabilities, screen sizes, and the number of units onboard.


5. Engine


  • Size: Choose based on usage and desired performance. 50HP – 90HP: Suitable for pontoons up to 20’. Adequate for light activities but limited for towing. 115HP – 200HP: Ideal for pontoons up to 23’. Additional costs may include hydraulic or power steering based on engine size. 250HP – 400HP: Best for pontoons 23’-25’. Consider cylinder count (6, 8, or 10) for torque, mid-range power, and speed. 425HP – 600HP: Designed for 25’-28’ pontoons, including 10’ wide models. Evaluate weight, displacement, and transmission systems.
  • Digital vs. Mechanical Controls: Digital: Electronically transmits throttle and steering for smoother, more precise operation. Mechanical: Uses physical cables and is typically less expensive.
  • Propeller Material: Stainless Steel: Offers maximum performance due to less flex but may result in costly repairs after impacts. Aluminum: More forgiving in rocky or debris-filled waters; less expensive to replace.