How to Build a Custom Pontoon Boat

When in the water you need to stay afloat whether you are swimming or boat riding.

While there are multiple types of boat, pontoon boats can be an efficient way to take a ride in the water. They are efficient, fast and reliable.

Typically, a pontoon boat is any floating device that is buoyant enough to float itself and the load it is carrying.

You can buy a pontoon boat. That’s great. But you can customise your own, and it is easy.

Reason To Have Custom Built Pontoons

If you have a strong belief in your style, then having customised products won’t be an issue.

Simply put, you need a floating structure that vividly reflects your personality. So going the DIY route is the only viable solution.

Completing the project gives you satisfaction, and helps understand the process. Again, it gives you the opportunity and flexibility to customise the pontoon boat to your specification – suit your interests, needs and desires.

Building the Boat

Buying a Kit or Going Full DIY

The primary thing you need to be aware is the amount of guidance you need to build a standout pontoon boat.

Whether you opt to buy a full kit or go the DIY route, you have many options. And all of them need direction. Good advice is looking for a pre-designed kit, especially if you are a beginner.

Again, they are a cheaper alternative. Even so, choosing the right kit isn’t easy. Read catalogues thoroughly before settling on the kit.

Then select the model and aesthetics (panel colours, graphics, fence and accent colours).

Choose the engine

Since you will be cruising the waters, you need an engine tailored for the marine environment. There are multiple types of engines. They vary in size, shapes and models.

Consider what you need from the engine before setting on one. Is it speed, horsepower, performance, durability or all of them?

Standard engine options include:

  • Inboards: great for bigger boats
  • Outboards: this is the ideal choice for pontoon boats. They have fuel efficiency.
  • Sterndrives: features both outboard and inboard features.

The engine horsepower must go hand in hand with water activity.

Hull Selection and Construction Materials

What design impresses you? Remember, significant construction material and hull have a great impact on your boat. The hull must suit the size and intent of the use of the pontoon.

Major Hull types you can use are:

  • Semi Displacement: they are narrow for enhanced performance at both high and slow speeds.
  • Medium Displacement: they push water aside as they move. Therefore they offer minimal propulsion.
  • Heavy Displacement: they are comfortable; thus, suitable for long-distance cruising
  • Planing Hull:  they skim along the water surface; hence suitable for speeding

Interior and Exterior Design

Consider comfort, functionality and personality. You need interior elements like drink holders, grab rails and comfortable seating.

If you make a pontoon boat with curved corners, it becomes easier to handle it at higher speeds than those without curves.

But if you need your boat to look stunning, use a sculpted exterior structure with a bit of surface texture. But, the surface finish should not be too rough – causes the boat to drag.

Use a wraparound windshield to broaden your field of view.

Test Drive Your Pontoon Boat

Be the captain – experience all aspects of your boat such as boat handles, how quickly it gains momentum and fuel economy.

If any issue arises, do not hesitate to look into custom built pontoons built by experts.