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Can You Use Pontoon Boats in the Ocean?

IMR Can You Use Pontoon Boats in the Ocean

Are you planning to rent a pontoon boat for your next vacation in the ocean?

A pontoon boat’s seaworthiness depends on many factors — size, construction, performance, and more. If you want to know whether you can go on an aquatic adventure in the ocean using pontoon boats, this guide is perfect for you.

What Is a Pontoon Boat?

Pontoon boats are a vessel ideal for inland lakes and rivers.

  • Pontoons are devices that can be any shape and be buoyant in the water to transport heavy loads.
  • Pontoons remain light even if they displace large amounts of water.
  • Compared to other types of boats, pontoons are shallower, with a draft of only eight inches.
  • Pontoons are extremely stable devices with broad bases, which can carry large weights and groups of people.

Can Pontoon Boats Go In the Ocean?

Although pontoon boats were originally designed for inland lakes and rivers, that does not mean that they cannot be used in the ocean. In fact, they can be seen in ocean waters, especially near the shore — such as Intracoastal waters and bays.

If you know the correct way to handle them in rough waters, you will find that pontoons are stable boats. However, when they are mishandled, they can still capsize like any other seafaring vessel.

Here are some things to take note of when planning to take a pontoon to the ocean:

1. Distribute Weight Evenly

To guarantee that your pontoon won’t capsize, evenly distribute the weight. By doing so, the ability of the boat to tackle heavy waters can be positively impacted.

Here are some factors that add instability to pontoon boats:

  • Installed Additional Equipment: Some boat accessories, such as customized V-bows and towing bars, add significant weight, which impacts the stability of pontoons. With such accessories installed, the chance of capsizing increases.
  • Extra Cargo: Extra cargo also adds to the instability of pontoons. When not securely placed, these can also injure passengers, especially when boating in rough waters.
  • Added Height: Although double-decker pontoon boats can accommodate more passengers, the added height causes them to be unstable.

If you are wondering how the mentioned factors cause boats to be unstable, the answer is that they affect the center of gravity, which then impacts stability.

2. Do Not Slow Down in Rough Waters

The best tip for making pontoons stay afloat is to keep them above the waterline. Plus, avoid their nosecones from dipping into big waves. When these two tips are not followed, the chances of giant waves crashing into your boat increase. Usually, this happens when you choose to slow down. If you want to avoid this issue, maintain your speed or increase it slightly to lift the front of your boat above the waterline.

3. Do Not Cruise Into Big Waves

When using pontoons or any other vessel in the ocean, ride with the waves. Maneuver your boat at a 30-45-degree angle with respect to the centerline. This helps keep the front of the boat above the waterline.

Safety Tips for Pontooning in the Ocean

1. Avoid Accessories

As mentioned, some accessories are not recommended for pontoons, especially when they are to be used in the ocean, so avoid them.

2. Check for Leaks

Another way to ensure safety is to check all the valves, drain plugs, pipes, and fittings before heading out on the ocean. By doing so, you will know whether the boat is in good condition. Pontoons with leaks can lose their buoyancy, so going out on the waters is dangerous without checking everything.

3. Research on the Weather

Regardless of whether you are using a pontoon, you should always check the weather forecasts to avoid being stuck in the middle of the ocean during bad weather.

Always be on the lookout for unexpected weather changes. Be observant of your surroundings to prevent weather-related danger.

4. Follow Instructions and Guidelines

To guarantee safety, check the instructions and guidelines provided by the manufacturer of the boat you are using. You can look for the recommended number of passengers and the allowed accessories you can install. If you are renting one, follow the safety guidelines given by the rental company.

Have a Safe and Sound Aquatic Adventure

There are ways to make your boating adventure fun and safe at the same time.

Just make sure that you follow the tips and safety guidelines provided.

If you are looking for pontoon boat rentals, Island Marine Rentals is your best option. We have different pontoons for you to choose from. We also provide rental services for other types of boats, such as bowrider and hurricane deck boats. Check out our boat rental in Madeira Beach, FL, for more details. For any inquiries or questions, contact us.

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