How Much Does a Pontoon Boat Weigh? [With 7 Examples]

How much does a pontoon boat weigh? If you are going to buy a pontoon boat or tow a pontoon boat, you should know how much it weighs. In this article, I’ll provide the average pontoon boat weight and several examples.

What is the average pontoon boat weight? An average-sized pontoon boat (around 22 feet long), including the motor, weighs around 2,200 pounds (997.9032 kg). Also, the boat can hold approximately 2,000 pounds (907.1847 kg) of weight. Furthermore, a pontoon boat trailer weighs about 1,200 pounds (544.311 kg). 

Here are some pontoon boats and their corresponding dry weight in pounds:

  1. Avalon Eagle 16′-1,350 pounds
  2. Sweetwater SW 2086 22′-1,775 pounds
  3. Avalon Catalina DRL 24’-2,050 pounds
  4. G3 Suncatcher X22RF-3,600 pounds
  5. Suntracker Regency 254XP3 27’-3,300 pounds
  6. Suntracker Bass Buggy 16 XL-1,565 pounds
  7. Bennington Marine 30 QXSB-6,801 pounds

If you plan to tow a pontoon boat, your truck must have a towing capacity of 5,500 pounds (2,494.8 kg) to 6,000 pounds (2721.554 kg) because you’re not only towing the boat but also the other gears inside as well.

Typically, an empty pontoon boat with gear and motor on a trailer will weigh around 3,700 pounds (1678.292 kg). So it would be best to have a truck that can tow more than 3,700 pounds (1678.292 kg). 

Read on to learn about the average pontoon boat weight, including the weight of 7 different types of pontoon boats.

How Much Does a Pontoon Boat Weigh?

If you’re planning to buy a pontoon boat, you must know its weight so that you know if you can tow it with your truck. 

Typically, the average pontoon boat weight is around 2,200 pounds (997.9032 kg). However, there are various types of pontoon boats, and each has a different weight from the rest. Here are some examples of pontoon boats and how much they weigh. 

The dry weight is the weight, excluding the gear’s weight in the boat and the trailer, but includes the motor without gas. On the other hand, the wet weight includes the gas and the boat’s complete equipment. 

Below is the weight of 7 popular pontoon boats.

1. Avalon Eagle 16-foot 

How much does a 16-foot pontoon boat weigh? This pontoon boat is 16 feet long and has a dry weight of about 1,350 pounds (612.3497 kg). The Avalon also comes in 14 feet sizes. This boat provides essential features that you can enjoy with your family. 

However, it’s not recommended for die-hard anglers, as there’s not enough space for fish-boxes, rod-holders, and other fishing gears. You will have to bring your own small bucket. Also, you can add optional features, such as a stereo with Sirius satellite radio.

Compared to other pontoon boots within its size, the Avalon Eagle is made of high-quality material, with aluminum seat bases, stainless steel cleats, and anodized rails. It has a maximum horsepower of 50, more than the 40 horsepower of other brands.

2. Sweetwater SW 2086 22-foot

How much does a 22-foot pontoon boat weigh? This boat is 22 feet long and has a dry weight of 1,775 pounds (805.1265 kg) and a wet weight of about 2,500 pounds (1133.981 kg). You have the option to add specific features, such as LED docking lights, wicker-wrapped seat boxes, captain’s chair, fire extinguisher, universal phone holder, and fish-finder. 

The boat also provides a canopy featuring a protective playpen cover, stereo, sink, transom shower faucet, standard stern fish seats, tachometer, and many more incredible features. 

3. Avalon Catalina DRL 24-foot 

How much does a 24-foot pontoon boat weigh? Twenty-four feet long, this pontoon boat has a dry weight of about 2,050 pounds (929.8644 kg). The Catalina can accommodate 11 people and provide an optional centerline locker to store all your equipment. 

You can safely ride it on mild waves with plenty of power due to its choices of powerful engines; one is the V6 DF200. If you go fishing, you can get the trolling motor and the under-seat life well. An extended platform will allow you to engage in watersports easily. As a water sports enthusiast, you could also opt for the Waveglider Tube Package.

Breathing the fresh breeze under the bow section’s stylish umbrella would be a perfect way to relax and feel rejuvenated. Another activity is to cruise at 32 miles per hour and enjoy the scenery around you while capturing the incredible picturesque in your camera for posterity’s sake.

4. G3 Suncatcher X22RF 22-foot

This boat weighs 3,600 pounds (1632.933 kg) with its trailer and motor and usually has a length of 22 to 23 feet. This pontoon boat is for passionate anglers due to its excellent fishing features. The boat also provides a great entertainment area, so you can do all the water activities you want. 

The Suncatcher is a perfect pontoon boat for a family fishing adventure because of its friendly and fishing features. It provides enough space for a family of 11. The boat also has features that ensure you stay safe and secure. Furthermore, you can enjoy music while on the boat. The stereo is Bluetooth accessible. The console and the captain’s chair will help you maneuver the boat quickly.

5. Suntracker Regency 254XP3 27-foot

Weighing 3,300 pounds (1,497 kg), this pontoon boat has a package weight with a trailer that weighs 5,695 pounds (2,583 kg). Its seating capacity is 15, and its weight capacity is 2,150 pounds (975.2236 kg). The boat runs on Verado 300 horsepower and provides a broad swim platform. A sturdy boarding ladder makes it easy for swimmers to re-board the boat.

how much does a pontoon boat weigh

The spacious seating area is excellent for large families or groups. The Suntracker Regency’s triple tubes increase security while you ride the waves as there is added buoyancy to the boat. Besides, you can conveniently adjust the helm seat.

6. Suntracker Bass Buggy 16 XL 16-foot

This pontoon boat has a 16-feet deck length and an 8-feet width. The weight of this pontoon boat is about 1,565 pounds (709.8721 kg), including a 50 HP outboard engine. The total trailer weight is around 2,355 pounds (1068.21 kg). Hence, you should have a truck with at least 5,500 towing capacity to tow your pontoon boat trailer. 

The boat provides a stereo system, which is Bluetooth accessible. You will surely enjoy fishing with its comfortable dual bow chairs. You can place your keepers on the forward console Livewell seat. The hull material is durable aluminum; thus, you can expect an increased lifespan.

7. Bennington Marine 30 QXSB 12-foot

How much does a 12-foot pontoon boat weigh? The Bennington can accommodate around 12 people. It’s 30 feet and has a dry weight of 6,801 pounds (3084.882 kg) that includes twin 450 horsepower outboards. Its trailer weight is about 1,250 pounds (566.9905 kg), with fuel and gear weight at about 1,000 pounds (453.592 kg). Its total trailer weight is about 9,100 pounds (4127.691 kg).

The boat has a powerful twin engine, a windshield, and a power-folding arch. A convenient port recliner found mid-ship provides safety and convenience. The boat’s fiberglass material adds elegance and durability. 

We have discussed the answer to the questions: “how much does a pontoon boat weigh?” and “what is the average pontoon boat weight?”. Now, here are some tips you should consider when buying a pontoon boat.

Tips When Buying a Pontoon Boat of Any Weight or Size

1. Establish Your Allotted Budget

How much is your budget? Will you buy a brand new pontoon boat, or will you settle for used boats? You must establish the cost that you can afford to facilitate your search.

Say your budget is from $18,000 to $30,000. The first thing you would search for is a pontoon boat within this price. Later on, you can find out if the boat fulfills your other requirements.

2. Know What Type and Size You Need

Before you scout for your pontoon boat, you have to know first what type and size you need. How many are your expected passengers? What’s the primary purpose of your pontoon boat? Is it for luxury or business? 

Write down the answers to these questions, and add the other specifications you want for your boat. With this list, you can narrow down your choices quickly. Generally, when you expect two to six people, you should select a pontoon that is 18 to 20 feet long.

You will need a 22 to 24 feet boat for six to ten people, and for ten people or more, you should choose a 24-feet or more pontoon boat.

How much does a pontoon boat weigh that is about 22 feet long? An average-sized pontoon boat (around 22 feet long), including the motor, weighs around 2,200 pounds (997.9032 kg).

3. Determine Where You Will Use the Boat

Where will you use the boat? Is it at sea, on the river, or in rough waters? Your choice of pontoon boat would depend on these aspects too. If you plan to sail on calm and small bodies of water, you can choose a boat from 17 to 19 feet.

Consequently, you should choose a boat between 23 and 28 feet when you plan to sail on rough waters. You can choose boats that are 20 to 22 feet long on rivers or lakes with moderate waves.

Also, will you go fishing, swimming, sunbathing, or will you engage in watersports? Your activities would help you determine what type of pontoon boat you should buy. If you plan to go swimming, your boat should be equipped with swimming paraphernalia.

In case you want to sunbathe, your prospective boat must have an expansive deck. For watersport purposes, your boat’s engine must generate at least 90 horsepower to be able to accommodate and carry all your sports gear. 

4. Buy from Reputable Companies/Sellers

Buy only from authorized and reputable companies with a good track record. Check your list against the features of the boat and ensure that the boat provides all your requirements. When unsure about certain aspects, you have to ask the staff. 

In cases when you’re buying a used pontoon boat, you have to ask for proof of ownership. You also have to verify if the seller’s proof of ownership is legitimate. One reliable recommendation is when it comes from a trusted friend or family member.

5. Inspect the Boat Thoroughly

First, inspect the engine, the hull, the floorings, the throttle, the gauges, the furniture, and the pontoon tubes. If you don’t know about boat parts, request a licensed boat mechanic to thoroughly examine the boat to guarantee no factory defects or damaged parts. 

If possible, request a warranty. You can use this warranty for repairs and part replacements – if the boat needs them – during the warranty period. You have to inspect used boats more judiciously for wear and tear. The older the boat, the more it’s subject to damage. Also, the lower a pontoon boat weighs, the greater risk it is of damage in the long term.

So, you have to check every inch. As a general rule for used boats, choose the newer boat over the older boat.

how much does a pontoon boat weight

6. Compare the Prices

Don’t buy the first pontoon boat that you find – even when you think it’s perfect for you. Browse and find other boats that comply with your requirements. Compare their pros and cons and their prices. You may find a better boat than your first pick that comes at an affordable price.

Furthermore, ensure no hidden charges or any encumbrances, such as bank loans or debts with the boat as collateral. In this aspect, used boats are the first candidates. Brand new boats bought from reputable companies would surely be free from these financial issues.

7. Inspect the Boat Physically

With products being ordered online easily, you may be tempted to purchase your boat without inspecting it physically. You have to examine the boat yourself and double-check if the boat met your product specifications. You can bring a trusted mechanic to determine if there are any defects or damages.

Don’t settle for an in-house boat mechanic unless you absolutely trust the seller. Bring your own trusted mechanic to do the task for you. 

Also, ask the owner for the pontoon boat weight from the manual. This way, you will know for sure how much it weighs and so will know if you can tow it or not.

8. Prioritize Safety and Comfort over Price

You have to prioritize your safety and comfort over the boat’s price. A cheap boat may mean an unsafe one. However, not all pricey boats are the safest. Please go over the boat’s specifications and double-check them in person.

Safety features should include an anchor line, life jackets enough for every passenger, an emergency kit, radio, a compass, signal flares, and a waterproof map. A first aid kit is a must item in your boat. Remember to check for a fire extinguisher as well. 

If the boat seller doesn’t provide all of these, you still have to buy these essential items to make sure you have the necessary emergency materials with you during your water adventure.

Conclusion – Pontoon Boat Weight

So, how much does a pontoon boat weigh? The standard pontoon boat weighs around 2,200 pounds (997.9032 kg). This weight includes the motor. The boat can hold about 2,000 pounds (907.1847 kg) of weight. With the trailer, the weight totals to 1,200 pounds (544.311 kg). 

Your truck must have a towing capacity of at least 5,500 pounds to be able to tow a standard pontoon boat. When your boat has a lower towing capacity, don’t fret because there are lighter pontoon boats you can choose from. 

Whatever activity you have set to do, have fun, and spend quality time with your friends and family in your new pontoon boat. 

Related reading:

What Is the Fastest Pontoon Boat in the World?