Safely Navigating Rough Waters With Your Pontoon

Pontoon boats are incredibly stable thanks to their unique design, but they can be uniquely impacted when the waters get rough. The following guide provides some key things to know about safely boating in rough waters!

The Causes of Rough Waters

Bad weather is a common culprit for rough waters. That's one of the many reasons you shouldn't take your pontoon out for a voyage when there are high winds, storms, or other such weather advisories.

Another common source is other large boats nearby. Depending on their size and speed, they can create a large wake that can be tough for your pontoon to handle.

The Risk of Rough Waters for Pontoons

Pontoon boats have a flat bottom and rest more on the surface of the water, compared to other boats whose bottoms are positioned further beneath the water's surface. Pontoons don't cut through waves as easily and can struggle maneuvering through rough waters.

Managing Rough Waters On a Pontoon Ride

Your best approach is going to be preventative - try to avoid the poor weather and proximity to other boats that can lead to choppy waters.

It's also helpful to be mindful of how you distribute the weight on your pontoon. Try to position the cargo and passengers so weight is more evenly distributed. You can also put a bit more weight in the rear of the boat, which will help the bow more easily stay above the waves as you move forward.

When you see upcoming waves, you can try to take them at an angle and ride them (rather than dipping under them). You'll want to maintain your speed since slowing down could increase the likelihood of the bow going under.

If you're in the market for a boat, American Marine & Motorsports carries a range of pontoons for sale. Our dealership is based in Shawano, Wisconsin, and we also serve those in Green Bay and Appleton.