Pontoon and Desk Boat logo
January 2025
January 2025 | Volume 30, Number 1
CONTENTS
12
CURRENT
TRENDS
18
20
questions
22
TOONS VS
DECKS
Features
12
CURRENT TRENDS
Catch The Trending Waves Of 2025
18
20 QUESTIONS
What Every Boat Buyer Should Be Asking
22
TOONS VS DECKS
Breaking Down The Advantages
26
PDB DIRECTORY
Best-Selling Models
34
PDB DIRECTORY
Fishing Specific Models
40
PDB DIRECTORY
Entry-Level Models
48
PDB DIRECTORY
Electric Models
50
PDB DIRECTORY
High Performance Models
58
BOAT SHOW LISTINGS
The When And The Where
62
PDB DIRECTORY
Complete Listings Of Top Builders
FROM THE BOW
10
CAPTAIN’S CHAIR
30 Years Of PDB
DEPARTMENTS
61
ADVERTISER INDEX
Page Number Listings
Pontoon and Deck Boat Logo
PONTOON & DECK BOAT STAFF
Editorial

Executive Editor Brady L. Kay
Assistant Editor Rebecca Blackson
Editorial Staff Nicole Richens, Roy Sparks

Editorial Correspondents
Dan Armitage, Shannon Hawkes, Bill Gius

Advertising

Advertising Executives
Greg Larsen, glarsen@pdbmagazine.com
Kevin Malcom, kevin@pdbmagazine.com

Circulation

Circulation Director Chuck Harris

Production

Lead Designer Lavon Horne

To subscribe, go to:
www.harrispublishing.com/pontoon-deck-boat

HARRIS PUBLISHING GROUP ADMINISTRATION

Publisher Brady L. Kay
Executive Editor Brady L. Kay
Circulation Manager Chuck Harris
Controller Clayton Ward

HARRIS PUBLISHING EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATION

Founder Darryl W. Harris
President Jason Harris
Vice President Chuck Harris
Vice President Ryan Harris
Treasurer Clayton Ward

NMMA logo
Copyright, PDB magazine is published 11 times per year by Harris Publishing, Inc., sub rates, back copies, foreign, reproduction prohibitions, all rights reserved, not responsible for contents of ads and submitted materials, mail permits printed in Idaho Falls, ID.

The basic subscription price is $39.95 for 11 issues. Cover price is $5.95. Canadian and Foreign subscriptions add $20.00 per 11 issues. U.S. funds only. Limited back issues are available for $5.00 each.

Copyright 2025 by Harris Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without written permission is strictly prohibited.

Call 800-638-0135 to purchase a subscription, to correct your mailing label, or to order back issues.

Harris Publishing
corporate office

Harris Publishing, Inc.
520 Park Ave., Idaho Falls, ID 83402
(800) 638-0135 • Fax (208) 522-5241
www.pdbmagazine.com

By Brady L. Kay
Captain’s Chair
“Not even Mr. Harris back in 1995 could have predicted just how popular pontoon boats would become today, but we all probably should have seen this coming.”
Portrait headshot close-up photograph of Brady L. Kay smiling in a light sky blue 2025 Pontoon and Deck Boat Shootout graphic t-shirt and a dark grey Pontoon typography hat
30 Years of PDB
The premier issue of Pontoon & Deck Boat magazine first hit mailboxes back in 1995 as a quarterly publication and we’re proud to say it’s been growing ever since. As we kick off 2025 with our annual Buyer’s Guide edition 30 years later, I can’t help but think back to our humble beginnings as both a magazine and a publishing company.

Harris Publishing founder Darryl Harris served as PDB’s first editor and back then the thought of producing a magazine all about deck boats and those boxy, extremely non-nautical-looking and non-performance-minded pontoon boats had other employees in-house snickering around the water cooler. With successful magazine titles at Harris Publishing focused on the agricultural and snowmobiling industries, few could see the vision or the potential of PDB magazine.

READ FULL ARTICLE
Aria logo
Aria 22CC
CRAFTSMANSHIP | COMFORT | PERFORMANCE | CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
Aria 24UC
Aria 22QC
ARIA 20QC WITH 60HP STARTING AT $41,033
Barletta Boats logo
barlettapontoonboats.com
Making

Waves
Catch the top new trends of 2025
By Rebecca Blackson

Making

Waves
Catch the top new trends of 2025
By Rebecca Blackson

With boat-buying season just ahead, you might be wondering what’s making waves in the industry right now. We caught up with the leading manufacturers to see what’s hot for the new year since they hear firsthand from dealers about the most sought-after options and popular choices.

Value

Nearly every consumer looks to get more bang for their buck, and that’s surely the case for boat buyers. The more value that manufacturers can pack into their models, the better.

“We anticipate that consumers will prioritize products that offer the best value for their budget. Notably, we are observing a trend towards purchasing more affordable options or high-end products,” said Jean-Philippe Martin-Dubois, marketing director for Princecraft.

READ FULL ARTICLE
JC TriToon Marine logo
Where Innovation and Luxury Live
Over forty-five years in the making, today's JC TriToon soars over the water as one of unequalled technology and comfort in the world of pontoons. Let JC TriToon introduce you to extraordinary boating!
Find your local dealer* today
FIND NOW
*Not for sale in California.
Suzuki Marine logo
JC Manufacturing, Inc. | North Webster, IN 46555
e-mail: sales@jcpontoon.com
Always wear a personal flotation device while boating and read your owner’s manual.
Over forty-five years in the making, today's JC TriToon soars over the water as one of unequalled technology and comfort in the world of pontoons. Let JC TriToon introduce you to extraordinary boating!
Find your local dealer* today
FIND NOW
*Not for sale in California.
Suzuki Marine logo
JC Manufacturing, Inc. | North Webster, IN 46555
e-mail: sales@jcpontoon.com
Always wear a personal flotation device while boating and read your owner’s manual.
20 Questions
What every boat buyer
should be asking
By Nicole Richens
20 Questions
What every boat buyer should be asking
By Nicole Richens
So all your friends have told you how great it is to own a boat and you’ve decided to make the plunge and buy your own. That’s great! Recognition is the first step to realizing you have a problem. (Sorry, couldn’t resist.) But seriously, do you actually know what you’re in for? Not just in a general sense, but in very specific areas? We asked around and got an idea of the kinds of things you should be aware of as you’re looking to make a boat purchase. Hopefully this list will keep you from plopping down your money on a lemon or, say, a transatlantic paddle-powered catamaran.
General
These are the basic questions you need to ask yourself to drill down to a good starting point. In some cases though, the answers to these questions may indicate that you’re not ready for a boat yet, so try to be as honest as possible.
READ FULL ARTICLE
Pontoon vs
Deck Boats
Breaking down the advantages
By Roy Sparks
Pontoon vs Deck Boats
Breaking down the advantages
By Roy Sparks
Once upon a time the relationship between pontoon boats and deck boats was large and very distinct. But in the last decade or so the differences are definitely getting smaller. Originally pontoons were the awkward, slower but cheaper distant cousin of deck boats. Offering enough deck space to host a small cocktail party was really their only redeeming quality. Deck boats, in contrast, were the flashy, more expensive, more powerful boats with a little less comfort and seating capacity than a pontoon.

Much has changed. With the addition of performance-enhancing features such as three-logged pontoons, lifting strakes and higher horsepower ratings, pontoons now can rival or even exceed the performance of some deck boats. Deck boats, in addition, have improved to the point where they can equal seating capacity and creature comforts typical of some pontoons.

READ FULL ARTICLE
Best Selling Models typography
If you’re in the market for a pontoon or deck boat but aren’t sure where to start, it’s a surefire bet to check out each manufacturer’s best-selling model. If the majority of customers have found these boats to be the perfect blend of features, power, and affordability, you probably will, too.
3/4 view of Avalon LSZ pontoon
Avalon lsz
The LSZ boasts the perfect number of standard features to have a premium feel without overdoing it. Great as is with its base features, you can customize as much or as little as you want for a premium boating experience.
LOA

23’
Beam

8’ 6”
Max HP

300hp
Price Range

$100K to $129K
www.avalonpontoons.com
red and white Barletta Cabrio C22UC in the water
Barletta Cabrio C22UC
The Cabrio comes at an economical price point with high-end fit and finish, innovation, and performance. With the popular Ultra Lounge that can convert to five different configurations and two high-back captain’s chairs at midship, you can seat everyone on board comfortably.
LOA

23’ 2”
Beam

8′ 6″
Max HP

250hp
Price Range

$50K to $79K
www.barlettapontoonboats.com
READ FULL ARTICLE
top fishing models
While most pontoons or deck boats would work well for fishing, serious anglers are looking for a model with fishing-specific features such as livewells and rod holders. These fishing models are tuned to those needs and will help you bring home the perfect catch in comfort and style.
people riding in Avalon GEOfish pontoon
Avalon GEOfish
Packed with amenities to please any angler, the GEOfish is a center console fishing pontoon with a stainless T-top, 30-gallon livewell, full tackle tray, and additional gunnel storage.
LOA

23-27’
Beam

8′ 6″
Max HP

400hp
Price Range

$130K to $159K
www.avalonpontoons.com
side view of people riding in Barletta Aria A22CC
Barletta Aria A22CC
With the Aria you get the best of both cruising and fishing worlds, along with the quality and performance you expect at an obtainable price point for comfort for the entire family.
LOA

21’ 10”
Beam

8′ 6″
Max HP

200hp
Price Range

$50K to $79K
www.barlettapontoonboats.com
READ FULL ARTICLE
Entry-Level First Time Boats typography
As more families join the boating lifestyle, they’re learning what we already know: boating is an excellent way to spend your free time. These models are particularly great at getting you started. With value packed in every corner and attainable prices, these entry-level boats come with everything you need for fun on the water.
white and yellow Aura pontoon in the water
Aura
New to the industry, the Aura is sure to be a crowd favorite. Backed by Avalon’s industry leading chassis, this boat features innovative enduro flex form technology, is easy to operate, easy to trailer, and perfect for first time buyers and young families.
LOA

19-23’
Beam

8’ 6”
Max HP

250hp
Price Range

$39K and under
www.aurapontoons.com
white and red Barletta Aria A22UC pontoon sitting idle in the water
Barletta Aria A22UC
Designed to be obtainable without sacrifice, the Aria features the most popular floor plan in the Barletta lineup. Standard features include a power Bimini, swim ladder, pop-up cleats, and dog-friendly amenities such as pull-out pet dishes and a Doggie View door.
LOA

21’ 10”
Beam

8’ 6”
Max HP

200hp
Price Range

$50K to $79K
www.barlettapontoonboats.com
READ FULL ARTICLE
Electric Boat Options typography
When you’re ready for smooth, electric power and the quiet sound of renewable energy, these electric-powered options have you covered. Still filled with all the comfort and standard features of gas-powered options, these models will get you on the water with ease.
children jumping off of Bennington 168 SLJ while parent smile and watch
Bennington 168 SLJ
Cruise in comfort and style with the SL Line with the popular L-Bench floor plan and extensive storage. Ideal for cruising on smaller lakes with an electric engine, enjoy the quiet hum of electric in a stylish pontoon built with quality.
LOA

17’ 11.5”
Beam

8’
Max HP

25hp
Price Range

$39K and under
www.benningtonmarine.com
man driving Crest Current 200 CPE on the water
Crest Current 200 CPE
Crest’s factory electric package features two large 25-inch diameter tubes and an ePropulsion Navy 3.0 Evo motor with E175 battery. CPe provides efficient and clean power, suitable for salt water and fresh water.
LOA

22’ 10”
Beam

8’
Max HP

9.9hp
Price Range

$50K to $79K
www.crestpontoonboats.com
READ FULL ARTICLE
Top-of-the-Line High Performance Models
It’s everything you never knew you wanted—high style, unmatched performance, and bells and whistles that you didn’t know were even possible. In this section, we highlight each manufacturer’s best or highest end luxury. Often categorized as dream or “someday boats,” these vessels are truly ones to put on your wish list.
Avalon Carbon Fiber Excalibur on water
Avalon Carbon Fiber Excalibur
Bringing together exquisite design and superior quality, the Excalibur is equipped with carbon fiber, finished with custom automotive paint, and the Waveglider 27-inch high performance triple pontoon system. New dual Simrad NSX screens create a fully customized MFD display.
LOA

27’
Beam

8′ 6″
Max HP

1000hp
Price Range

$250K to $299K
www.avalonpontoons.com
Barletta Lusso L25UC pontoon
Barletta Lusso L25UC
Designed for a smooth ride, the Lusso features vibration isolation pads, Wave Tamers, and heavy-duty nose cones. Enjoy standard amenities such as a classic and stylish rail-set, ultra-comfortable furniture, a sleek helm, and pet-friendly amenities.
LOA

27’ 6”
Beam

8′ 6″
Max HP

500hp
Price Range

$160K to $199K
www.barlettapontoonboats.com
READ FULL ARTICLE
Boat Show

Listings
The when and where of the 2025 shows
ADVERTISERINDEX
View Advertisers
Company Name
Page #
  • Aura Pontoons64

www.aurapontoons.com

  • Avalon Pontoons7

www.avalonpontoons.com

  • Barletta Boats11

www.barlettapontoonboats.com

  • Conrad Marine8

www.conradmarine.com

  • G-Floor17

www.gfloor.com

  • Godfrey Pontoon Boats3, 47

www.godfreypontoonboats.com

  • Hurricane Boats3, 47

www.hurricaneboats.com

  • JC TriToon Marine17

www.jcpontoon.com

  • Phoenix Trailers25

www.phoenixtrail.com

  • Princecraft Boats33

www.princecraft.com

  • Starcraft Marine4

www.starcraftmarine.com

  • Stingray Boats57

www.stingrayboats.com

  • SunCatcher by G3 Boats15

www.suncatcherpontoons.com

  • Suzuki Marine Outboards2

www.suzukimarine.com

  • Sylvan Marine21

www.sylvanmarine.com

  • Teak Isle Mfg.5

www.teakisle.com

  • Wilson Pontoons61

www.plasticpontoon.com

paddle

Where’s The Paddle?

A paddle is hiding inside each issue of PDB and the names of the first readers to find it are printed in an upcoming magazine! In our Fall issue the paddle is on page 24 on Vanderbilt’s pontoon logs (shown in the photo below) in the “What’s New For 2025” roundup. Here are the readers who spotted it first:

image capture of the "Vanderbilt’s New Pontoon L Class" from the Fall 2024 issue of Pontoon & Deck Boat
Ken Braun, Hartford, Wis.
Richard Burchill, Budd Lake, N.J.
Dane Walker, Coarsegold, Calif.
Danny Criner, North Chesterfield, Va.
David Groner, Vacaville, Calif.
Gene Michael Kuszmaul, Youngstown, Ohio
Rich Christensen, Townville, S.C.
Brandon Clement, Missoula Mont.
Tobias Reigns, West Chester, Ohio
Marcus Rosehill, Kaneohe, Hawaii

As soon as you find the paddle, email its location, your name, and hometown to paddle@pdbmagazine.com. Paddle on!

Directory Assistance
A complete listing of the top pontoon and deck boat manufacturers
Pontoon and Deck Boat
Thanks for reading our January 2025 issue!
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