Pontoon boats are a popular watercraft choice, especially for those who enjoy leisurely boating. They are versatile, stylish, and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. One of the questions that many boaters have when thinking about purchasing a pontoon boat is whether or not it is suitable for ocean use. While pontoon boats are great for lakes and rivers, taking them out into the ocean is a different story. Here is what you need to know before setting sail.
First, it is essential to understand the design of pontoon boats. They are shallow vessels with flat bottoms that provide excellent stability in calm waters, but they are not designed to handle rough and choppy seas. The typical pontoon boat also lacks the necessary features to provide stability in large waves, such as deep hulls, ballasts, and keels, that are common in boats designed for ocean use.
Second, it is important to consider the weather conditions that the boat will encounter on the open ocean. The ocean can be unpredictable, and water can become rough without warning. Even on calm, sunny days, ocean swells can be challenging to navigate for pontoon boats. The large waves that are common in the ocean can easily overturn a pontoon boat, so you must exercise caution and take precautions before heading out.
Third, pontoon boats are not designed to handle the saltwater environment of the ocean. Saltwater can corrode the metal parts of the boat’s engine and create a toxic environment for the boat’s components. It is crucial to protect the boat from saltwater exposure by thoroughly cleaning it and rinsing it down with fresh water after each use.
Finally, even if you do decide to take a pontoon boat out into the ocean, you need to ensure that you have the necessary safety equipment on board. This includes life jackets, flares, emergency beacon, a communication device, and any other safety items required by law.
While pontoon boats are ideal for leisurely activities on freshwater lakes and rivers, they are not suitable for ocean use. Their flat bottoms and shallow hulls make them unstable in rough sea conditions, and they lack the necessary features to provide stability in large waves. If you are looking to spend time on the open ocean, it is best to look into purchasing a boat specifically designed for this type of activity. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when taking any boat out into the open water.