few months have passed since the 2026 Minneapolis Boat Show, and there are several reasons why attendance was a little down this year. The negative-20-degree weather didn’t draw people indoors to the convention center like exhibitors had hoped. Still, from what we saw, the people who did come were serious buyers, not just browsing.
The number of pontoons on display increases every year, and 2026 followed that trend. Including the four Avalons and two Alera Marine pontoons in the hallways, we counted a total of 271 pontoons. That wasn’t the only record this year. More entrants than ever competed for the Innovation Awards from the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), making the decision on selecting the winners the toughest since the program began in 2018.
For decades the NMMA Innovation Awards have been the measuring stick for innovation and awarded at the Miami International Boat Show as well as the International Boat Builders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX).
In 2018 the NMMA – in an attempt to broaden its reach – expanded to the Discover Boating Minneapolis Boat Show with its Innovation Awards to include smaller fishing and electric boats, as well as pontoon boats that typically aren’t found at the other two Florida-based boat shows – at least not to the same degree as in Minnesota. Minneapolis, with an impressive number of pontoons in the building this year, has truly become the pontoon show in the world.
As a member of Boating Writers International (BWI), I’ve been fortunate to be involved in the judging process in Minneapolis each year since the beginning, and over those years I’ve had a front row view to some truly innovative and unique new boats, layouts and features.
Back in January the NMMA Innovation Awards were announced to honor manufacturers and suppliers who bring new, innovative products to market for the recreational boating industry. The products are judged by a panel of marine writers who are all members of BWI.
There are five total categories including two that are specific to our niche in the boating industry: furnishings and pontoon boats. The other three categories are aluminum/non-fiberglass fishing boats, electric boats, and fiberglass fishing boats.
Below are the 13 NMMA Innovation Award entrants (and winners) from the pontoon and furnishings categories that are a direct fit with our targeted audience as a publication.
Barletta and Seakeeper partnered together to bring another industry-first in the pontoon segment – Seakeeper Ride in a pontoon boat application. Its collaboration earned both companies an Innovation Award.
At the show, the Barletta Lusso 25UA was paired with Seakeeper Ride. As pontoon boats have grown in popularity, so have the places these crafts are able to go as they’re not just for calm water. Today’s pontoon boaters face rough conditions in fresh and salt water, and there haven’t been any innovations to address these challenges specifically on the pontoon platform. Seakeeper Ride, combined with the modified hull of a Barletta triple `toon pontoon boat, uses proprietary variable gain algorithms to optimize its performance on boats of all types and in all sea conditions without special tuning or calibration by the operator.
The custom software Seakeeper developed specifically for the pontoon application optimizes pitch, roll, and yaw performance as well as introduces a modified turning response that allows about a 2- to 6-degree list, or lean, into a turn from what is normally closer to flat or zero degrees. This makes the turn feel much more natural and comfortable, much like turning in a mono hull vessel. (www.barlettapontoonboats.com // www.ride.seakeeper.com/)
The all-new Command Anchor earned an Innovation Award for its unique design. The anchor stows completely out of the way and deploys and retracts automatically with the precise digital control of Premier’s HelmVision touchscreen interface, or convenient bow-mounted foot controls. The digitally deployed power anchor stows securely below deck and is seamlessly integrated into its PTX center tube. The design eliminates wet/muddy ropes, corner tie-offs, and cluttered decks and the Delta/plow type anchor and heavy-duty chain holds the pontoon securely. (www.pontoons.com)
Godfrey Pontoon Boats has re-imagined the Sanpan lineup for model year 2026, earning the Indiana-based manufacturer an Innovation Award. Sanpan, one of the first pontoons with aluminum tubes in 1958, defines modern luxury. The refreshed design features a lightweight, fiberglass exterior for a refined look without sacrificing performance or capacity. A centrally positioned fuel tank improves buoyancy and allows high-horsepower engines to tilt fully out of the water, while custom curved headlights add a distinctive style.
Inside, push-button gates with magnetic holds enhance convenience, while quilted furniture and wide helm seats with ultra-soft vinyl elevate comfort. The redesigned helm boasts glass windscreens, digital switching, an integrated trash receptacle, and dual screens. A 9-inch display replaces gauges, complemented by a 12-inch MFD. Sanpan was intentional in offering six push buttons to help battle “screen fatigue” felt by many. NytCruz is also standard, allowing for auto navigation and anchor lights.
The new power-actuated Grand Luxe Arch option includes translucent panels, a power-actuated Bimini, and optional forward-facing night-vision cameras. Godfrey’s Click & Cruise rail system makes adding accessories effortless, perfect for fenders, covers, and more, without drilling or awkward placements. (www.godfreypontoonboats.com)
The final Innovation Award went to the Viaggio Lago Z22B, which introduces an exciting and innovative layout to the industry. Designed with versatility and comfort in mind, it features multi-function seating with flip-flop seats in both the stern and mid-boat areas. An innovative dinette table seamlessly converts into a footrest for relaxed lounging, while the fully equipped kitchen area from Boat Outfitters includes a large Kenyon electric grill, freshwater sink, built-in trash receptacle, paper towel holder, bottle opener, and generous storage throughout. Available in both 22- and 24-foot configurations, the Z22B delivers exceptional entertainment capabilities while maintaining a key industry price point. (www.viaggiopontoonboats.com)
The fuel-fill is standard on all Alera Marine pontoons. It is integrated into the tow bar and located at hip height. This makes fueling your boat easy, convenient and safe. It also eliminates fuel splash back, keeping your boat and the water clean. (www.aleramarine.com)
Innovation isn’t just a feature of the redesigned 2026 Bennington QX—it’s the foundation. This flagship model redefines the pontoon industry by merging advanced engineering with uncompromising luxury, creating a beautiful vessel. The QX introduces industry-first breakthroughs that transform the boating experience.
The Commander Dash 2.0 integrates Vivid UX with new mapping features, premium Rockford Fosgate audio systems, and seamless feature integration into a single, intuitive interface—eliminating clutter and setting a new standard for helm technology and control.
The retractable keeper rail earned an Innovation Award in 2025 and is included on this QX. The integrated fuel door is subtle yet revolutionary, enhancing security and convenience without sacrificing the QX’s sleek, uninterrupted profile. The optional Carbon Fiber Aero Arch pairs sleek modern style while ensuring lightweight strength and durability.
Performance meets personalization with timeless yet dynamic hull lines, customizable RGB lighting, and premium audio systems that create an immersive, tailored experience. (www.benningtonmarine.com)
The DualView Loungers on the 2026 Sunliner deliver premium functionality in a mid-tier pontoon to maximize style, comfort and storage efficiency. The sharpened bow geometry allows the front loungers to be squared off, creating the ideal seating position for passengers to relax facing forward or turn back toward the center of the boat, creating a perfect social gathering space. Beneath the seats, traditional dry storage remains, but the real treat lies behind the chaise backs featuring two expansive compartments concealed with magnetic latches for seamless access. On the starboard side, a large trash receptacle comes standard, while the port compartment offers generous space for an anchor or even a second bin. This thoughtful integration maximizes utility without compromising aesthetics. The in-seat entertainment area elevates the experience with lighted cupholders and raised speakers for superior sound projection. (www.harrisboats.com)
The 2026 Sunliner marks a bold evolution in Harris design, engineered from the inside out to elevate the onboard experience. At the bow, DualView loungers allow riders to face forward or comfortably face back toward their friends and family. Every Sunliner includes thoughtful touches such as a shoe nook, lockable compartment for valuables, and options for a flip-up table or cooler drawer. Comfort and style stand out with the Luxe package, featuring enhanced foam density and premium stitching for a curated look and feel. New layouts such as the SLE create a dedicated space for dining and socializing without sacrificing the rear sun lounger. Multi-position backrest on multiple layouts, and a remarkable helm space with easy access to electronics and an ergonomic design make it a comfortable driving experience. (www.harrisboats.com)
Click & Cruise is a patented accessory attachment system that revolutionizes pontoon customization. Engineered into the boat’s exterior rails, this features a rail channel and latches that allow accessories to be securely attached, re-positioned, or removed—without tools. This integrated approach ensures unmatched durability, stability, and a sleek aesthetic while delivering effortless flexibility for boaters. The channel design works in tandem with its custom latches to create a secure, tool-free connection that withstands the rigors of marine environments. This technology eliminates the complexity of traditional mounting solutions, enabling boaters to personalize their setup and free up space in seconds. Click & Cruise supports a curated lineup of modular accessories, including the Sandbar Shade, Fender Hanger, Rod Holder Kit, Flagpole Kit, and Sports Rack. Each accessory is engineered for quick installation and removal, empowering users to adapt their boat for fishing, entertaining, or relaxing—without sacrificing time, space, or convenience. By combining patented technology with user-centric design, Click & Cruise sets a new standard for versatility and ease of use in the marine industry. Polaris Marine’s commitment to innovation ensures boaters spend less time setting up their space and more time enjoying the water. (www.polaris.com/en-us/marine)
Although not entered in the NMMA Innovation Awards, Flamingo Marine received plenty of attention at the show. The Wisconsin-based manufacturer made its world debut of the all-new ROVE at the Minneapolis Boat Show and was busy the entire time. With a team of six to eight people and two ROVE boats, the Flamingo staff conducted walk-through visits all day long.
Flamingo Marine enters the pontoon category with a clean-sheet mindset and a clear mission: challenge convention, rethink layouts, and elevate the on-water ownership experience. ROVE represents that mission in its purest form—combining intelligent design, premium craftsmanship, and social-first functionality into a pontoon that feels unmistakably modern. (www.flamingo-marine.com)
These two newest additions are an ideal power match for a wide range of freshwater fishing and hunting boats, combining Suzuki’s proven performance, fuel efficiency and reliability with a distinctive look that matches the popular look of larger STEALTH LINE outboards.
Suzuki’s 25hp outboard is a past NMMA Innovation Award winner for bringing a range of breakthrough features to this class of smaller boats. (www.suzukimarine.com)
Pontoon Dock Assist is designed to solve one of boating’s biggest challenges: precise control and maneuverability for pontoons at low speeds. Traditional pontoon steering relies on a single propeller system, which limits lateral movement and makes docking in tight spaces or shallow water difficult, especially in windy conditions.
The solution? A bow and stern thruster system powered by an advanced hull-integrated propeller design, delivering true 360-degree maneuverability. Controlled by an intuitive joystick, two motors mounted in the center pontoon operate side-facing ports for lateral movement and a center port for forward and reverse motion. This breakthrough allows pontoons to rotate, slide sideways, and navigate with precision—capabilities previously unheard of in the pontoon segment.
Special development was required to integrate this system into select 25-, 27- and 29-inch center and elliptical pontoon layouts, while maintaining compatibility with single-engine configurations. The Polaris Marine Engineering Teams focused on safety and efficiency, replacing traditional open-style propellers with hull-integrated propellers for reduced risk and improved shallow-water performance. (www.polaris.com/en-us/marine)
The all-new 2026 Premier Intrigue RLO is completely new from bow to stern and features a one-of-a-kind rear lounger floorplan that allows you to have unimpeded water access when you want it, and the security of an enclosed transparent stern when underway.
The all-new Transparent Stern Fence and Transparent Bow Gate replaces traditional chain enclosures and creates a one-of-a-kind design and feel that transforms the experience. Premier’s exclusive (and past Innovative Award-winning) Open Water Panels rethinks the traditional pontoon experience with rear panels that open and swing out and lock, creating direct water access from the deck and a close-to-the-water atmosphere unlike any other pontoon.
The all-new rear lounger has been completely redesigned to deliver more comfort and versatility with seven different configurations and includes deck-level cup holders for direct from the water access when Open Water Panels are open. (www.pontoons.com)
Completely new from the water up for 2026, the Premier Intrigue combines its legendary build quality with a fresh modern design, cohesive styling, and a new technology forward helm. Highlights include an all-new 6-inch raised Ascend helm that infuses technology with modern styling and features a 15-inch Simrad Ultrawide touchscreen display featuring the easy-to-use Premier HelmVision interface; optional 9-inch secondary screen, CZone digital switching, and a new Compass steering wheel with optional fingertip controls. (www.pontoons.com)
The Yacht Cot System is a structurally-sound, 304 stainless steel arm that bolts to the pontoon deck and allows you to hang a hammock chair or other accessories from it. The Yacht Cot can safely hold up to 300 pounds. The mount is meant to be used while the boat is stationary and in calm waters.
The mount includes a three-plate patent pending system that mounts to the deck of a pontoon and bolts to two to three of the structural deck supports that cross the boat. This allows pressure and twisting force to be distributed across the boat, while making it structurally sound. (www.theyachtcot.com)