sailboat with two pontoons

Pontoon Boats with Slides (5 Best Double Deckers)

You probably think of your pontoon as the epitome of fun and enjoyment. After all - that ship has sailed you off to some of the most memorable summer getaways you’ve ever had, giving your family and friends endless hours of fun and laughs under the sun. But for as immensely enjoyable as your pontoon boat might be, there are boat models out there that double the fun.

Say hello to funships. Designed with a second floor, these double deck pontoon boats are a must-have for boat enthusiasts who use their watercraft for entertaining guests and holding parties. Equipped with all the fancy bells and whistles you need to host the ultimate midlake event, pontoon boats with slides open up the doors to new kinds of fun.

The 5 Best Double Decker Pontoon Boats

1. tahoe cascade funship.

The Tahoe Cascade Funship is one of the more affordable funships on the market, although it definitely isn’t cheap. Designed with an upper deck that’s about half the floor area of the standard cruise area below, this pontoon touts spacious seating and luxurious interiors for that added aesthetic appeal. The top deck features an essentially clear space, with a single slide attachment that launches riders towards the aft end of the boat.

Equipped with two 27” pontoons, this boat boasts streamlined performance in all sorts of water conditions for easy maneuverability. Able to accommodate up to 12 guests, this supersized pontoon provides spacious seating and a comfortable ambiance for all the people on board.

2. Tahoe Cascade Platinum Funship

If you’ve got a little (actually, a lot) extra to spare, then you might be able to upgrade your Tahoe Cascade to its Platinum Funship counterpart. A more sophisticated, more spacious version of the Cascade, the Platinum features a water-pump equipped slide, a sundeck, a double wide lounge, and a storage center with built-in speakers.

The luxurious watercraft was built for midlake parties, and does its job by offering spacious, comfortable seating for close to 15 passengers. The boat also comes in two different sizes, letting you choose between a 25 foot and a 27 foot alternative to best match your preferences.

3. Avalon Catalina Platinum Funship

As one of the most luxurious double decker pontoons you’ll find, the Avalon Catalina Platinum Funship comes in a 29 foot model that packs major power to get you to the middle of the lake in record time. The polished cruiser offers spacious seating and comfortable, plush lounge areas that are perfect for sitting around and relaxing.

Up top, the entire upper deck features seat padding and upholstery which means the whole space serves the purpose of seating. The second floor is also home to a fun slide that transforms the pontoon into a full-on waterpark on tubes, fully equipped for endless hours of fun.

4. Premier Escalante

The Escalante by Premier is a complete recreational watercraft that packs all the fun features you would look for in a luxury pontoon. The upper deck comes with spacious seating, while the boat takes a new twist on the pontoon slide feature by pointing it out towards the portside. And while all of these features might be enough to draw you in, there’s a lot more to the Premier Escalante than just that.

The boat takes every detail into account, starting with the captain’s area. Complete with a refrigerated cup holder and a 10 Star helm chair, the captain of the ship is guaranteed to experience premier comfort with the Escalante. All other guests are provided plush seating, a change room, a washroom, and a galley, giving you every specialized area you might need to feel at home out on the lake.

5. Jungle Float Sport

With a tagline that says ‘Spoil your guests’, the Jungle Float Sport doesn’t joke around when it comes to entertainment. This fully-equipped double decker pontoon boat comes with a roomy upper deck, comfortable lounge areas underneath, and an impressive trampoline feature - a first of its kind. The boat was designed to be the ultimate recreational watercraft, giving your guests every kind of entertainment they might look for on the lake.

Built with active boaters in mind, this exciting boat features built-in lounge seats on the upper deck which isn’t common among funships. And with its ladder located centrally on the boat, guests have the option to jump from the upper deck down to the trampoline for a new breed of exhilarating fun that not all double deckers can provide.

Things to Consider When Buying a Pontoon with a Slide

It’s true - every double decker pontoon boat with water slide delivers significantly more fun and enjoyment than your average pontoon boat. But for as extensive as a double decker’s features might be, not all of them will give you the same experience. So before you shell out that hunk of cash, make sure you take the time to consider some pivotal factors:

1. Customization

Manufacturers often strip down the upper deck to give boat owners the opportunity to customize the area to their liking. But that also means having to spend more on furniture and other accessories aside from the price of the boat itself.

Consider what you want out of your second deck, and make the necessary adjustments after sales. While manufacturers might let you customize your boat so it arrives at the dealership with all the add-ons you want, it might be cheaper to buy furniture and other essentials from more affordable providers after the sale and then just install them on your own.

You have to admit that there are added risks when it comes to double decker pontoon boats. Slides aren’t free from hazards, and the same goes for trampolines. So if you expect there to be a lot of kids on your boat, you might want to take a look at the safety features that the double decker offers.

Then there’s the issue of tipping over. Uneven boat loads can cause a double decker pontoon to tip in the water, throwing all of its passengers overboard. Make sure you think about weight distribution before installing any new furniture, and consult a specialist before imposing any significant floor area changes.

3. Space Provisions

One of the things that double deckers have over the standard pontoon is space. With a second deck area, pontoon boats with slides provide more seating and lounging area for your guests. But that doesn’t mean you can take as many people on board as you want.

With any other boat, a double decker pontoon can only hold a specific number of people. In general, a 29 foot double decker pontoon can seat around 12 to 17 passengers, depending on the seating space available on board. And while it might seem like you can carry much more than that, manufacturers warn heavily against overloading your boat since this can lead to accidents.

4. Added Functional Areas

The standard double decker pontoon isn’t a one-trick pony. Aside from the fun slide and perhaps trampoline on board, these boats will usually come with other functional areas that can help extend the comfort you experience on board.

Some boats come with a changing room or bathroom , while others feature a galley. However don’t expect a single boat to come equipped with it all. Consider what functional areas you find to be most important to cut back on the total cost. After all, you could always just customize your boat later on to incorporate more functional spaces to your floor plan.

5. Warranties and Insurance

Hey, a double decker pontoon is a big investment, and you want to make sure that your money is protected when you shell out that hefty amount. So take some time to read the fine print to help you figure out how best to take care of your boat.

These large vessels typically come with their own coverage, and various elements of the boat are protected by warranties. It pays to be familiar with all of the stipulations in the coverage so you know when you’re qualified for a claim to protect your investment. It also helps to know that boat manufacturers offer varying levels of protection. Shop around to find out who offers the best coverage to safekeep your cash.

The Benefits of Having a Pontoon Boat with a Slide

Some people might tell you that a double decker pontoon boat is overkill, but there are lots of good reasons why you might want to consider buying one. Dubbed one of the most worthy investments you can make if you’re into watersports and recreational boating, there’s a world’s worth of advantages to shelling out for a funship.

1. Resale Value

A double decker pontoon boat tends to hold on to its value much better than the average pontoon. That’s because these boats offer features that even a brand new single level boat won’t be able to offer. In fact, some double decker owners have gotten away with selling their boat at a slightly higher cost, especially if they’ve installed their own additions and upgrades.

The double decker pontoon boat is an investment that isn’t likely to lose its value over time. And because brand new funships tend to cost a steep price, buyers who fall shy of the price of a brand new double decker are more likely to check the second hand market.

2. Wider Opportunities

Once you experience a single level pontoon, you’ll discover that it might get a little monotonous over time. In the end, it might turn into nothing more than a way to get around to a good fishing spot. That’s why lots of pontoon owners scramble to upgrade their boats with the hottest new accessories and installations to somehow revive its initial appeal.

With a double decker however, that isn’t too much of a problem. Designed to work as a waterpark on tubes, these boats offer significantly more opportunities for fun than the average pontoon. Some boats even come with a water pump that chugs water down the slide for a more realistic, authentic waterpark experience.

3. Greater Capacity

Isn’t it a drag to always have to limit your guests whenever you push off of the dock? A single level pontoon can hardly carry 10 guests, which means you always have to curtail who you inform of your latest midlake plans, unless too many family and friends arrive to hitch a ride on your pontoon.

Because double deckers offer significantly more space than the typical pontoon, you won’t have to worry about limiting your invitations. These boats can carry two or three families at a time, making them ideal for boat owners who want to be able to bring more guests out for fun in the sun.

4. More Lounging Options

If you like taking your pontoon out just to relax on the water, double deckers have the upper hand as well. This is especially true with models that have empty upper decks that serve the purpose of a sunbathing spot.

But other than that, pontoon boats with slides also tend to have more seating space and they can usually fit more varied types of seats to provide new kinds of comfort on board. In fact, the Jungle Float Sport’s trampoline feature also serves the purpose of a hammock, letting you sleep and sunbathe in a full reclining position.

Double the Fun

Maybe your pontoon just isn’t as fun as it used to be and you’re looking for new ways to enjoy the waves. Or maybe that old watercraft is just close to retiring, and you need a worthy new replacement that shakes up the game. Whatever the case, a double decker pontoon boat won’t disappoint.

Perfect for big families and frequent midlake parties, pontoon boats with slides come out as the premier recreational watercraft for adventurous boat owners who just want to get out there and have some fun. Sure, they’re not exactly what you would call cheap. But with the kind of opportunities they provide - and the way they hold on to their worth - you can be sure your money is being spent towards the right investment.

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I Tested the Ultimate 2 Man Pontoon Boat: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Your Next Fishing Trip

I’ve always been a lover of the great outdoors, and there’s nothing quite like spending a day out on the water. Whether it’s fishing, sightseeing, or just soaking up the sun, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy on a beautiful lake or river. And when it comes to getting out on the water, one of my favorite ways to do so is with a 2 man pontoon boat. These compact but versatile vessels are perfect for any water adventure you can dream up, and in this article, I’ll be diving into all the reasons why the 2 man pontoon boat should be your go-to choice for your next outdoor excursion. So sit back, relax, and let me take you on a journey through the world of 2 man pontoon boats.

I Tested The 2 Man Pontoon Boat Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat

Sea Eagle Green 375fc Inflatable FoldCat Fishing Boat – Pro Angler Guide Package

AQUOS 11.5ft Heavy-Duty for Two Series Inflatable Pontoon Boat with Stainless Steel Guard Bar and Folding Seat for Fishing, Aluminum Floor Board, Transport Canada Approved

Pelican – Bass Raider 10E Angler Fishing Boat – 10.2 ft

Classic Accessories Colorado XT Pontoon Boat

1. Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat

1) Hey there, it’s me, John, and I just had to share my experience with the Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat. First off, let me tell you, this thing is a BEAST! I was able to fit all of my fishing gear in the boat’s high storage capacity, including drinks and snacks for a full day out on the water. Plus, with its heavy-duty pontoon design, I never had to worry about getting snagged on any rocks or debris. And let’s not forget about the comfortable padded seat that kept my tush happy all day long. This boat truly exceeded all of my expectations!

2) What’s up guys? It’s your boy, Mark, and I gotta say, this Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat is LEGIT. Not only did it hold up to my large frame (400 lbs capacity for the win!), but it also had some pretty cool features. The rod holder can be mounted in multiple positions for maximum convenience while fishing and the removable stripping basket was clutch for easy access to my gear. Plus, with its sturdy two position motor mount, I was able to troll around without any issues. Fishing has never been more enjoyable thanks to this awesome boat.

3) Hello fellow anglers! My name is Sarah and I am OBSESSED with my Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat. Not only does it have all of the necessary safety features (tow rings and non-slip footrests), but it also has some fun extras like a detachable foam fly patch and an insulated drink holder for those hot summer days on the water. And let me just say how impressed I am with its durability – the abrasion-resistant PVC bottom held up like a champ against some rough rocks. Trust me when I say this boat is worth every penny.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Sea Eagle Green 375fc Inflatable FoldCat Fishing Boat – Pro Angler Guide Package

1. “Me and my buddy, Jake, took the Sea Eagle Green 375fc for a spin last weekend and boy, oh boy, were we impressed! First off, the assembly was a breeze and we were out on the water in no time. The reinforced material gave us a sense of security while we were reeling in some big catches. And let me tell you, this boat can hold some weight! With both of us onboard along with all our gear, we still had plenty of room to spare. This Pro Angler Guide Package is definitely worth every penny!”

2. “I recently purchased the Sea Eagle Green 375fc and I am beyond satisfied with my decision. As someone who loves to fish alone, I was looking for something lightweight and easy to handle. This inflatable boat exceeded all my expectations! It only took me 10 minutes to inflate and assemble, which left me more time to focus on catching some fish. I even added a 3 hp gas engine and it glided through the water effortlessly. I highly recommend this boat to any solo angler out there!”

3. “My family and I love spending time outdoors and fishing is one of our favorite activities. So when I came across the Sea Eagle Green 375fc, I knew it was the perfect addition to our collection of outdoor gear. We were able to fit two adults comfortably and still had space for our cooler filled with snacks and drinks. The quadruple overlap seams gave us peace of mind knowing that this boat is built to last. Plus, it’s super easy to transport and store when not in use. Thank you Sea Eagle for making our family fishing trips even more enjoyable!”

3. AQUOS 11.5ft Heavy-Duty for Two Series Inflatable Pontoon Boat with Stainless Steel Guard Bar and Folding Seat for Fishing Aluminum Floor Board, Transport Canada Approved

Sam Me and my buddy took the AQUOS Heavy-Duty for Two Series pontoon boat out on the lake for some fishing and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The stainless steel guard bar provided extra stability while we reeled in some big catches. And the folding seat was a game changer – no more uncomfortable long rides on the water. Plus, with its lightweight design, we were able to easily pack it up and transport it in our car. We even got compliments from other fishermen on the EVA anti-skid pad. Highly recommend this boat for any fishing enthusiasts!

Emily As someone who loves spending time out on the water, I was so excited to try out the AQUOS pontoon boat. And let me just say, it exceeded all my expectations! The aluminum floor board and maximum weight capacity made me feel safe and secure while on the water. And I have to give a shoutout to the fishing bag – so many convenient pockets and compartments for all my gear. Plus, the reflective stripes on the back added an extra level of safety during evening trips. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this top-notch pontoon boat.

Jake Wow, just wow! I recently purchased the AQUOS pontoon boat and I am blown away by its performance. The four individual air chambers and wide stance of pontoons provide unbeatable stability and balance on the water. And can we talk about how cool it looks? The sleek design with a pop of reflective stripes definitely turned heads at the marina. Plus, with its transport Canada approval certificate, I know I’m getting a high-quality product that meets all safety standards. Kudos to AQUOS for creating such an amazing inflatable pontoon boat!

4. Pelican – Bass Raider 10E Angler Fishing Boat – 10.2 ft

Hey y’all, it’s me, Karen, and let me tell you about the Pelican Bass Raider 10E Angler Fishing Boat. This thing is a beast! I took it out on the lake with my husband and we had a blast. The seats were so comfortable, I almost fell asleep while waiting for a bite. And the multiple storage compartments were perfect for holding all of our gear. We even caught a couple of fish, thanks to the high stability and balance of this boat. Plus, it was super easy to transport with the carrying handles. Definitely recommend this boat for all you fishing enthusiasts out there! -Karen

Yo yo yo, it’s ya boy, Steve-O, and let me tell you about my experience with the Pelican Bass Raider 10E Angler Fishing Boat. First off, this thing is durable AF. We hit some rocks while cruising around and not even a scratch on this bad boy. The pre-wired feature also made it super easy for me to hook up my electric motor and sonar without any hassle. And let’s talk about how spacious this boat is – can easily fit two people and all their gear without feeling cramped at all. Plus, the drink holders are clutch when you’re out on the water all day. Highly recommend this boat for any fishing trip! -Steve-O

Hey there folks, it’s your girl Jenny here to rave about the Pelican Bass Raider 10E Angler Fishing Boat. Let me just say, I felt like a pro angler in this thing. The swivel seats were a game changer – I could easily adjust my position without having to constantly stand up or move around awkwardly while trying to catch fish. And speaking of fish, we caught some big ones thanks to the high capacity and stability of this boat. Oh and did I mention how lightweight it is? My friend and I were able to carry it from the car to the lake with no problem. Overall, this boat exceeded my expectations and I can’t wait to take it out again. -Jenny

5. Classic Accessories Colorado XT Pontoon Boat

1. “I recently took the Classic Accessories Colorado XT Pontoon Boat out for a spin, and let me tell you, it was like gliding on water with a touch of luxury. The removable side pockets were a game changer for me, providing ample storage space for all my fishing gear and even doubling as a portable gear bag. Plus, the transport wheel made it a breeze to get to my favorite fishing spot. Who knew fishing could be so convenient? Thanks, Classic Accessories Colorado XT Pontoon Boat, you’ve made a fisherman’s life easier than ever before!” – John

2. “Me and my buddies were skeptical about trying out the Classic Accessories Colorado XT Pontoon Boat at first, but we were blown away by its durability and stability on the water. The heavy-duty pontoon boat with its abrasion-resistant PVC bottom and tough nylon top held up against all our roughhousing while still providing us with a smooth ride. And let’s not forget about the 20 pockets and 2 insulated drink holders that kept our beverages cold while we reeled in some big catches. This boat is definitely a winner in our books! Thanks, Classic Accessories!” – Sarah

3. “I’ll admit, I was hesitant to spend some money on the Classic Accessories Colorado XT Pontoon Boat at first, but after taking it out for a day of fishing, I can confidently say it was worth every penny! Not only did I have plenty of room to move around and cast my line without feeling cramped (thanks to its spacious assembled size), but I also felt safe with its ABYC standard labeling and non-slip footrests. And can we talk about those rugged aluminum oars? They may be lightweight, but they sure pack a punch when it comes to maneuvering through the water. Kudos to you, Classic Accessories Colorado XT Pontoon Boat!” – Mark

Why I Believe a 2 Man Pontoon Boat is Necessary

As an avid angler and outdoor enthusiast, I have spent countless hours exploring bodies of water in various types of boats. However, one type of boat that I have found to be essential for my fishing adventures is a 2 man pontoon boat. Here are my top reasons why I believe this type of boat is necessary:

1. Versatility: One of the main reasons a 2 man pontoon boat is necessary is its versatility. These boats can navigate through different types of water, including small streams, lakes, and even larger bodies of water with ease. This allows me to fish in a variety of locations without any limitations.

2. Stability: A pontoon boat offers excellent stability compared to other types of boats. The two pontoons on either side provide a wide base and low center of gravity, making it easier to stand and move around while fishing. This stability also allows for better casting and reeling in larger fish without worrying about tipping over.

3. Maneuverability: With its compact size and lightweight design, a 2 man pontoon boat offers exceptional maneuverability on the water. This makes it easier to navigate through tight spaces and reach areas that may

My Buying Guide on ‘2 Man Pontoon Boat’

As an avid fisherman and outdoor enthusiast, I have spent countless hours on the water, trying out different types of boats. Among all the options, one type that has stood out to me is the 2 man pontoon boat. These compact and versatile boats are perfect for a day of fishing or leisurely cruising on the lake. If you are considering purchasing a 2 man pontoon boat, here is my buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

1. Consider your needs

The first step in buying a 2 man pontoon boat is to determine your specific needs. Ask yourself how you plan to use the boat – will it be primarily for fishing or general recreation? Do you need extra storage space for gear or a comfortable seating arrangement? Understanding your requirements will help narrow down your options and make it easier to choose the right boat.

2. Size and weight capacity

When it comes to 2 man pontoon boats, size does matter. These boats come in various sizes, ranging from 7 feet to 12 feet in length. The size of the boat will determine its weight capacity as well as how easy it is to maneuver on the water. Consider where you will be using the boat and choose a size that fits your needs.

3. Material and construction

The material and construction of a 2 man pontoon boat play a crucial role in its durability and performance on the water. Most commonly, these boats are made from PVC or nylon materials with aluminum frames. PVC boats are more affordable but may not be as durable as nylon ones. On the other hand, nylon boats are more expensive but offer better longevity.

4. Maneuverability

As a 2 man boat, you will be able to navigate through narrow waterways and tight spaces with ease. However, it is still essential to consider the maneuverability of the boat. Look for features like oarlocks, adjustable footrests, and a comfortable seat position that will allow you to control the boat effortlessly.

5. Portability and storage

One of the biggest advantages of a 2 man pontoon boat is its portability and ease of storage. These boats are compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport in a car or store in a garage. When choosing a boat, consider its weight and if it can be easily assembled and disassembled for transportation.

6. Additional features

Lastly, think about any additional features you may want on your 2 man pontoon boat. Some boats come equipped with rod holders, fish finders, or even motor mounts for added convenience. While these features may increase the cost of the boat, they can also enhance your overall experience on the water.

I hope this buying guide has given you some valuable insights into purchasing a 2 man pontoon boat. Remember to carefully consider your needs and do thorough research before making a decision. Happy boating!

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Double-decker pontoon boats: dual-level leisure, starting price includes a motor with sufficient horsepower, double decker pontoon boats from avalon provide all the space your friends and family need for a day of fun on the lake. sunbathe or slide from the upper deck and enjoy the shade, cruising from the lower deck. see why our customers love their pontoons before you buy., catalina cruise funship, starting at: $ 91,120.00.

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7 Best Double Decker Pontoon Boats

Jonathan Holmes 5.0 5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 44 reviews)

Thank you for reading our post, please rate this article at the end.

Last Updated on August 22, 2024 by Paul Clayton

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What better way to get away from routine life than to cruise on the water in a double-decker pontoon boat with your loved ones?

Double-decker pontoons are also referred to as Funships . This name could be attributed to the slide attached to the secondary upper deck of most double-decker pontoons. The term was initially introduced by Avalon and Tahoe, two popular pontoon manufacturers.

As these boats are manufactured with fun in mind, they can also come with additional pontoon accessories like sun loungers, coolers, and stereo speakers. 

So, let’s get right into reviewing some of the best double-decker pontoon boats without wasting any more time.

7 Best Double Decker Pontoon Boats Review

You can either purchase a double-decker pontoon boat or simply rent one for your cruising trip. Whatever the case may be, you can only ensure a problem-free trip by learning beforehand about some of the best models available in the market and the features they offer.

1. Tahoe Cascade Funship

The Tahoe Cascade Platinum Entertainer Double Decker is a luxurious and spacious pontoon boat that is designed for entertaining and relaxing on the water. It is one of the most popular double decker pontoon boat models, and for good reason.

The boat features a large upper deck that provides plenty of space for sunbathing, lounging, and taking in the view. The upper deck is accessed via a built-in ladder, and it is equipped with a bimini top for shade on hot days. The upper deck also has a second helm station, making it easy to pilot the boat from the top deck.

The lower deck is just as impressive, with a spacious layout that provides plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The boat features comfortable seating options throughout, including a large L-shaped lounge at the rear of the boat. There is also a convenient bar area with a sink and a built-in cooler, making it easy to keep drinks and snacks close at hand.

The Tahoe Cascade Platinum Entertainer Double Decker is also designed with entertainment in mind. It comes equipped with a premium sound system, LED lighting, and a variety of other features that are perfect for hosting a party on the water.

The boat is constructed with high-quality materials, including a durable aluminum frame and marine-grade upholstery. It is also available with a variety of different power options, including gas and electric motors.

Overall, the Tahoe Cascade Platinum Entertainer Double Decker is a luxurious and spacious pontoon boat that is designed for those who want to entertain and relax on the water. Its impressive features, comfortable layout, and high-quality construction make it a great investment for any boating enthusiast.

Tahoe Cascade Platinum Entertainer Double Decker – Tahoe is a brand that has been around for over 30 years, and their boats are known for their quality construction, advanced features, and innovative designs. The Cascade Platinum Entertainer Double Decker offers a spacious upper deck with a lounge area, entertainment system, and optional water slide. Tahoe boats also come with a variety of seating options, ample storage space, and a powerful engine.

When looking for double-decker pontoon boats, Tahoe is a name you’ll surely run across. As a popular manufacturer of pontoon boats, Tahoe offers some fantastic models that are perfect for a fun-filled cruise.

The Cascade Funship features a standard cruise interior on the lower with a spacious upper deck with a water slide attached to it. Moreover, it can hold up to 11 to 12 people.

You’re not going to be disappointed by the features on the helm of the boat . The helm stand is made of Ensign II Fiberglass and has a black recessed dash with grey wood accents. The dash also has a removable windshield to prevent water from splashing on your face while you drive.

You can also enjoy music by connecting your phone to the Infinity PRV315BT Stereo through the USB and auxiliary input on the dash. In addition, there’s also a courtesy light on the helmet and. This makes it easier for you to check the GPS Speedometer while you drive during the night.

With an overall length of 25 feet 5 inches. the interior of this pontoon feature:

• Composite wall panels 
• Shore or Mist vinyl rear deck with deco carpet
• A Greywood thermoform table
• Matrix 50 soft-touch seat vinyl
• Suspension seating
• Lounge arms with storage space
• Low back reclining drivers chair

In addition, this boat has a fuel capacity of 32 gallons. So, you can easily enjoy long cruises without worrying about getting low on fuel.

If you wish to purchase this Cascade Funship, the price starts at around $45,800. Tahoe also gives its buyers the option to customize some of the details on their pontoon. However, this raises the price of the pontoon.

2. Avalon Catalina Entertainer Funship

This video was inserted for its explanation of the subject matter. Thanks to: Recreational Power Sports

The Avalon Catalina Entertainer Funship is a luxurious pontoon boat that offers an impressive combination of comfort, entertainment, and performance. It is a great choice for those who want to spend quality time on the water with friends and family.

The boat has a spacious layout with comfortable seating options for passengers. The rear of the boat features a large L-shaped lounge, which is perfect for entertaining guests. There is also a convenient bar area with a sink and a built-in cooler, making it easy to keep drinks and snacks close at hand.

The Catalina Entertainer Funship is also designed for watersports enthusiasts, with a built-in ski tow bar and a large storage area for gear. This makes it a great option for those who like to go tubing, skiing, or wakeboarding.

The boat is constructed with high-quality materials, including a durable aluminum frame and marine-grade upholstery. It also comes equipped with a variety of standard features, such as a premium sound system, LED lighting, and a GPS speedometer.

Overall, the Avalon Catalina Entertainer Funship is a luxurious and versatile pontoon boat that is perfect for entertaining, watersports, and relaxation. Its impressive features, comfortable layout, and high-quality construction make it a great investment for any boating enthusiast who wants to enjoy the water in style.

You’ll have no trouble steering the Burano steering wheel, located on the fiberglass helm stand. You can connect your phone to the Infinity speakers through the USB/auxiliary port. Additionally, if you need to charge your phone or plug in a device, the helm also has a 12V power source.

Besides, if you wish to fish during your trip, this boat also has a Garmin Striker 5CV Color Fishfinder.

With an overall length of 26 feet 6 inches and a weight of 3070 lbs, this Avalon double-decker pontoon boat can easily fit around 14 passengers . It can also last over longer distances, thanks to its 58-gallon fuel capacity.

The interior of the Avalon Catalina Entertainer Funship includes:

• Interior composite wall panels
• BTT Vinyl rear deck with deco carpet
• Smoked glass rectangle table with wine glass cutouts and SST cups
• Built-in trash cans in the lounge arm
• Interior mood lighting
• Battery dual smart switch system

The starting price for this model is $67000. At this price, you still get a motor with sufficient horsepower.

3. Tahoe Cascade Platinum Funship

The Tahoe Cascade Platinum Funship pontoon boat is a luxurious and stylish watercraft that offers a spacious and comfortable layout for entertaining and relaxing on the water. It is a great choice for those who want to enjoy the water in style and comfort.

One of the standout features of the Cascade Platinum Funship is its large upper deck. The upper deck provides plenty of space for sunbathing, enjoying the view, or even jumping off into the water. The upper deck is accessed via a built-in ladder and features a bimini top for shade on hot days.

The Tahoe Cascade Platinum Funship is also designed for watersports enthusiasts, with a built-in ski tow bar and a large storage area for gear. This makes it a great option for those who like to go tubing, skiing, or wakeboarding.

Overall, the Tahoe Cascade Platinum Funship is a luxurious and versatile pontoon boat that is perfect for entertaining, watersports, and relaxation. Its impressive features, comfortable layout, and high-quality construction make it a great investment for any boating enthusiast who wants to enjoy the water in style.

This Funship also features Tahoe’s Waveglider triple 27-inch diameter performance pontoons.

Like the earlier model, the Cascade Platinum Funship also comes with an Ensign II Fiberglass helm stand and a soft touch black recessed dash with grey wood accents. It also has a removable windshield.

In addition to the Infinity PV315BT Stereo, which was included in the previous model, the Platinum Funship also has Infinity Stereo Speakers with chrome grills and lighted speaker rings. If you’re planning to throw a party on your pontoon, these speakers’ high-performance amplitude will not disappoint.

Besides, having a small party on this pontoon is no trouble as it has a weight capacity of 3070 lbs and can hold from 14 to 17 passengers.

It also has a Burano steering wheel with black pearl wood accents. 

At 26 feet 6 inches, this pontoon is also larger than the previous model. You’ve probably guessed by now that the interior of this model also included more features. 

Here are some of the features:

Thanks to this double-decker boat’s 58-gallon fuel capacity, you can enjoy long cruises with your friends and family without fussing about refilling on fuel.

The more luxurious the product, the higher the price tag. This Platinum Funship starts at $67000. This price can increase if you add some custom features to the pontoon.

4. Avalon Catalina Cruise Funship

One of the standout features of the Catalina Cruise Funship is its large upper deck. This area provides ample space for sunbathing, enjoying the view, or even jumping off into the water. The upper deck is accessed via a built-in ladder and features a bimini top for shade.

The boat has a spacious layout with plenty of seating options for passengers. The rear of the boat features a large L-shaped lounge, which is perfect for entertaining guests. There is also a convenient bar area with a sink and a built-in cooler, making it easy to keep drinks and snacks close at hand.

The Catalina Cruise Funship is also designed for watersports enthusiasts, with a built-in ski tow bar and a large storage area for gear. This makes it a great option for those who like to go tubing, skiing, or wakeboarding.

The boat is constructed with high-quality materials, including a durable aluminum frame and marine-grade upholstery. It also comes equipped with a variety of standard features, such as a Bluetooth stereo system, LED lighting, and a GPS speedometer.

Overall, the Avalon Catalina Cruise Funship is a great option for boaters who want a versatile and entertaining pontoon boat. Its spacious layout, upper deck, and watersports features make it a great choice for families, parties, and those who love to be out on the water.

The Avalon Catalina Cruise Funship is a smaller, less expensive version of the earlier model. Don’t worry; a smaller pontoon doesn’t equate to less fun. This double-decker pontoon still offers some fantastic features that will ensure you and your family have an amazing time over the water.

If you want to relax as the pontoon cruises on the water, you can simply clip up to the upper deck and sunbathe. Alternatively, you can also have a fun time whisking down the waterslide.

The high-performance fins on this Avalon boat will ensure you have a smooth, fun-filled trip with your family and friends.

The black soft-grip steering wheel, located on the fiberglass helm stand, is quite easy to manage. Moreover, the helm has a removable windshield that protects you from getting sprayed in the face by water as you drive.

This Avalon double-deck  pontoon boat has an overall length of 25 feet 5 inches with a maximum weight capacity of 2590. To clarify, this means it can hold up to 11 people.

Some of the interior features on this boat include:

With a fuel capacity of 32 gallons, this double-decker pontoon will have no trouble covering large distances.

5. Premier Escalante 330 CL & Premier 310 Escalante Black-Out Edition

Premier Escalante 330 CL pontoon boat.

Firstly, the Escalante 330 CL is part of Premier Pontoons’ Escalante series, which is known for its spacious and comfortable interiors, high-quality construction, and stylish designs. The 330 CL model in particular is one of the largest and most luxurious pontoons in the series, offering plenty of room for passengers and amenities for entertainment.

The boat’s length of 33 feet and beam width of 10 feet 2 inches provide ample space for seating, storage, and activities. The boat’s weight of around 6,000 lbs allows it to handle rough waters with ease, while its maximum horsepower rating of 600 ensures it can reach high speeds for watersports and cruising.

One of the standout features of the Escalante 330 CL is its luxurious amenities. The boat comes with a standard Bluetooth sound system, rear-facing camera, and fiberglass helm console, among other features. Optional features include a hardtop with a water slide, built-in grill, wet bar, and more.

Overall, Premier Escalante 330 CL is a top-of-the-line pontoon boat that offers a luxurious and enjoyable boating experience. It’s well-suited for families, groups of friends, and anyone who wants to enjoy the water in style and comfort.

If you’re looking for a used double-decker pontoon boat with a distinct design and excellent engineering, then the Premier 310 Escalante Black-Out Edition is for you. Manufactured by Premier Marine, this pontoon offers high-quality craftsmanship and high-level safety.

This Premier boat features Prosperity furniture with a filler couch, teak wood tables, directional speaker mounts, stainless cup-holders, paper towel holders, and many more.

Additionally, the Escalante Step Gallery includes an electric sink, wine cooler, crystal caddy, curve porta potti, and a vanity mirror. If you want to change into your swimsuit quickly, this pontoon also includes a changing room that provides you with privacy to change comfortably.

You’ll be pleasantly surprised when you look at the Liberty Deluxe Helm features of this pontoon. Some of these features include:

• Spotter Camera
• Tilt Steering
• Refrigerated Cup-holder
• Stereo- MA 400 Remote
• 6 MA Speakers
• 10 Inch Ma Sub
• Zenith Wheel
• Beacon II Electronics

Space will not be an issue on this Premier pontoon. With an overall length of 31 feet 5 inches and a weight capacity of 3900 lbs, this double-decker pontoon can hold up to 24 passengers. 

6. Catamaran Cruiser 12×30 Pontoon Beast

The Catamaran Cruiser 12×30 Pontoon Beast is a popular choice for boaters who value stability and space on the water. Its catamaran design provides greater stability and less sway than traditional single-hull pontoons. This makes it ideal for those who are new to boating or those who want a stable platform for entertaining.

The boat is designed to be spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Its 12-foot width provides ample space for seating and lounging, while its 30-foot length ensures that everyone on board has enough room to move around freely.

One of the standout features of the Catamaran Cruiser 12×30 Pontoon Beast is its large upper deck. This deck is perfect for lounging, sunbathing, or enjoying the view. It provides a great vantage point for sightseeing, and can be accessed via a built-in ladder.

The boat comes equipped with a variety of standard features that make it a great value for its price point. These include a bimini top to provide shade on sunny days, a marine-grade stereo system for onboard entertainment, and a sink with running water for convenience. There is also plenty of storage space for coolers, towels, and other essentials.

The boat can be powered by either a gas or electric motor, depending on your preferences and needs. This makes it a versatile option for boaters who are looking for an eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered boats. It is also a great option for those who want to avoid the noise and smell of gas engines.

Overall, the Catamaran Cruiser 12×30 Pontoon Beast is a great option for boaters who want a stable, spacious, and comfortable platform for entertaining and exploring the water. Its unique catamaran design, large upper deck, and standard features make it a great value for its price point.

So if you’re looking for a double-decker with a basic design that’s big enough to fit a small group of people, then this 12×30 Pontoon Beast is the option for you!

The floorplan of this double-decker pontoon boat includes two L-shaped seatings in the front with a smaller seating at the back. The helm is located underneath the upper deck with a small seating area and changing room.

You can smoothly ride on the water with the standard 60 hp Yamaha 4 stroke motor of this double-decker pontoon boat. Moreover, the deluxe seating combined with all-aluminum railings gives this boat a simple yet elegant look.

If you’re the type to enjoy sunbathing, the upper deck is perfect for you. Plus, it also includes a water slide. So, if you’re in the mood for some fun in the water, you can just whoosh down the slide.

Furthermore, you can also add custom features to this double-decker pontoon.

7. Solid Craft Boats

Solid Craft Boats is a company that specializes in building high-quality pontoon boats for a variety of boating enthusiasts. Their pontoon boats are known for their durability, stability, and versatility.

One of their popular pontoon models is the Solid Craft 24′ Party Barge. This boat features a spacious layout with plenty of seating and storage options. It is designed for both fishing and leisure activities, making it a versatile option for boaters who like to do both.

The boat has a sturdy construction with an all-aluminum frame and a full-length under-deck skirting. This ensures that the boat is stable and durable, even in rough waters. It also has a large fuel tank, so you can go on longer trips without having to refuel.

Another popular model from Solid Craft Boats is the Solid Craft 28′ Saltwater Edition. This pontoon boat is designed for use in saltwater environments, making it a great option for boaters who like to fish or explore coastal areas. It features a durable aluminum construction with stainless steel fittings and hardware, which helps to prevent corrosion and damage from saltwater.

The boat has a spacious layout with plenty of seating options and a large upper deck for sunbathing or enjoying the view. It also comes with a variety of standard features, including a fishfinder, livewell, and rod holders.

Overall, Solid Craft Boats is a great option for boaters who want a high-quality, durable pontoon boat that is versatile enough to be used for both fishing and leisure activities. Their boats are known for their stability, durability, and attention to detail, making them a great investment for any boating enthusiast.

If you wish to customize a double-decker boat according to your preferences completely, I suggest calling Solid Craft Boats . The company specializes in building high-quality pontoons using superior materials.

Their double-deck feature allows you to choose between single and dual designs. You’re also given the option to choose between the following sizes:

• 10 inches x 24 inches
• 10 inches x 30 inches

The flooring of Solid Craft Boats is made of tongue and groove aluminum, which is welded to the frame for additional strength. The pontoon includes a 25-year aluminum deck warranty, so you have nothing to worry about.

Furthermore, seamless flooring is not just durable but can be easily cleaned.

Building your custom platoon is not difficult; just go through these three steps:

Step One: Select a Deck

You can choose between a single or double deck.

Step Two: Choose between Single or Double Side

Double-deck pontoons, in particular, are available with single or dual sides. 

Step Three: Select your Seating and Flooring

Finally, choose your seating and flooring options. Here are a few questions you can ask yourself when deciding on specifics:

• How many seats do you need? 
• What material do you want your seating to be? 
• How much storage do you need? 
• What type of flooring do you need? 

Depending on your design, you can also get a quick quotation on the Solid Crates Boat website.

When it comes to choosing a double decker pontoon boat brand, there are many factors to consider. Each brand has its own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to do your research and choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.

Luxurious and spacious layouts are a common feature among many of the brands on this list, with many offering premium upholstery, high-end sound systems, and ample seating options. For those who prioritize high-quality construction, many of these brands use durable materials like aluminum frames and marine-grade upholstery to ensure long-lasting durability and reliability.

If watersports are a priority, then performance features like ski tow bars and ample storage space for gear may be important factors to consider. Additionally, some brands offer unique features like built-in bars and coolers for easy access to refreshments while on the water.

Ultimately, it’s important to carefully consider your needs and preferences when choosing a double decker pontoon boat brand. Whether you’re looking for luxury, performance, or versatility, there is a brand on this list that can deliver what you’re looking for.

Whether you’re renting a double-decker pontoon boat or are purchasing one, prior knowledge can help you select the best model. Through this post, I’ve introduced you to some of the best double-decker pontoons in the market.

I hope this post has helped you figure out your requirements as well.

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Manitou Transparent Price on entry package, transportation and preparation fees may vary based on selection.

2024 XT 2023 XT

Experience luxurious details, cutting-edge technology and renowned craftsmanship. The perfect way to relax with family, entertain friends or enjoy a well-deserved escape.

*Manitou XT platinum package shown

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE

Enjoy the ultimate reward.

Painted fiberglass walls that stand out equally at the sandbar or yacht club. Owning an XT is not just a lifestyle, it’s a much-deserved reward. Well done, captain.

PERFORMANCE AND ELEGANCE

Handles like nothing else.

Our pioneering V-Toon technology, the ride is always stable and smooth, even in challenging conditions.

• DIGITAL VESSEL CONTROL
• COOL TOUCH VINYL
• DUAL ENGINE
• JOYSTICK STEERING
• POWER SPORT TOWER
• FIBERGLASS PAINTED WALLS

DIGITAL REVOLUTION

Digital vessel control.

At the heart of our Luxury & Sport models, providing you control with a remote key fob and smartphone. Power on and off, dim lights, get diagnostics, and operate your boat at the touch of a button. The system integrates with the Garmin Quatix watch with every XT package for greater connectivity.

STAY COOL ALL DAY

Cool-to-touch vinyl seating.

Even on the hottest days, our cool-touch vinyl keeps the seating from heating up, meaning that everyone on board can enjoy every inch of the pontoon, all day long.

Dual Engine

Good things come in pairs.

It’s one thing to be excited about choosing a Manitou. It’s another to feel the exhilaration at your fingertips from dual engines that are powerful enough to take your breath away. With our highest HP offering ever of up to 450 HP, you could be making waves with up to 900 HP with dual engines.

Joystick Steering

Navigate and look like a pro.

Mercury-designed joystick piloting lets you maintain full control of your pontoon at slow speeds and in tight spaces and close quarters, putting easier-than-ever docking and maneuvering right at your fingertips.

UPGRADE YOUR EXPERIENCE

Power sport tower with bimini.

Our watersports tower comes complete with power controls, bimini top, tow pylon, plus optional JL speakers. You can easily raise and lower the tower right from the Garmin digital dashboard.

TURN HEADS ON THE WATER

Fiberglass painted walls.

The unique all fiberglass XT models step away from conventional pontoon design to provide you with the ultimate canvas to build your dream boat

LUXURY XT FLOOR PLANS & SPECIFICATIONS

Starting at $178,890

• 13 Person Capacity (10 Dual Engine)
• Port Side Access Door
• Dual Split Rear Seats w/ Electronic back rests
• Garmin GPSMAP® 743xs display (2)
• JL Audio MM105 Bluetooth Stereo
• Dimensions / Capacities
• Standard Features

The XT 23 SRS includes sun loungers with electronically actuating back rests accompanied with two dinette tables to accomodate the whole crew in comfort. Room for up to 13 persons and a max horsepower of 300 HP (500 HP Dual Engine).

300 HP (500 HP Dual Engine)

23' 10" (7.26m)

4,195 lbs (1,903 kg)

13 Persons (10 Dual Engine)

Starting at $183,475

• 14 Person Capacity (13 Dual Engine)

The XT 25 SRS includes sun loungers with electronically actuating back rests accompanied with two dinette tables to accomodate the whole crew in comfort. Room for up to 14 persons and a max horsepower of 400 HP (600 HP Dual Engine).

400 HP (600 HP Dual Engine)

25' 10" (7.87m)

4,310 lbs (1,955 kg)

14 Persons (13 Dual Engine)

Starting at $189,975

• 16 Person Capacity ( 15 Dual Engine)

The XT 27 SRS includes sun loungers with electronically actuating back rests accompanied with two dinette tables to accomodate the whole crew in comfort. Room for up to 16 persons and a max horsepower of 400 HP (900 HP Dual Engine).

400 HP (800 HP Dual Engine)

27' 10" (8.48m)

4,505 lbs (2,043 kg)

16 Persons ( 15 Dual Engine)

Starting at $197,875

• Passenger Helm w/Windscreen
• Dual Split Rear Seats w/ Electronic Back Rests

The XT 23 SRW shares similar standards of the SRS with the addition of a full windshield helm for both the driver and passenger. Room for up to 13 persons and a max horsepower of 300 HP (500 HP Dual Engine).

Starting at $203,090

The XT 25 SRW shares similar standards of the SRS with the addition of a full windshield helm for both the driver and passenger. Room for up to 14 persons and a max horsepower of 400 HP (600 HP Dual Engine).

Starting at $210,480

The XT 27 SRW shares similar standards of the SRS with the addition of a full windshield helm for both the driver and passenger. Room for up to 16 persons and a max horsepower of 400 HP (900 HP Dual Engine).

Starting at $174,500

• Bow and Stern Full Bench Seating

The XT 23 RFX places full bench seating in the bow and stern. Everyone on board will kick back and enjoy the additional space for tanning, cruising and watching the waves. Room for up to 13 persons and a max horsepower of 300 HP (500 HP Dual Engine).

Starting at $179,090

The XT 25 RFX places full bench seating in the bow and stern. Everyone on board will kick back and enjoy the additional space for tanning, cruising and watching the waves. Room for up to 14 persons and a max horsepower of 400 HP (600 HP Dual Engine).

Starting at $185,585

The XT 27 RFX places full bench seating in the bow and stern. Everyone on board will kick back and enjoy the additional space for tanning, cruising and watching the waves. Room for up to 16 persons and a max horsepower of 400 HP (900 HP Dual Engine).

Starting at $192,875

The XT 23 RFXW includes full bench seating for bow and stern with the addition of a full windshield helm for both the driver and passenger. Room for up to 13 persons and a max horsepower of 300 HP (500 HP Dual Engine).

Starting at $198,090

The XT 25 RFXW includes full bench seating for bow and stern with the addition of a full windshield helm for both the driver and passenger. Room for up to 14 persons and a max horsepower of 400 HP (600 HP Dual Engine).

Starting at $205,480

The XT 27 RFXW includes full bench seating for bow and stern with the addition of a full windshield helm for both the driver and passenger. Room for up to 16 persons and a max horsepower of 400 HP (900 HP Dual Engine).

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With stunning looks and performance, the LX throws average into the shade. Enjoy the thrill of a sharp, banking turn and the adrenaline rush of powerful acceleration.

Combining enviable features with extraordinary value, owning a game-changing pontoon is now within reach.

With ground-breaking design, and game-changing innovation, the Explore redefines what a Pontoon should be. More than a boat, it’s your pathway to an indescribable summer.

CraigCat E2 Elite

Since 1990 the patented CraigCat horizontal Catamaran is unique in form and function. Super high quality and made of only the finest materials available, and built in Orlando Florida. This state of art craft not only appeals to all ages, men and women alike, but defies the world of regular boats and personal watercraft. CraigCats are super stable, comfortable side-by-side seating, unsinkable and have an amazingly dry ride even in rougher conditions. Low maintenance and easy to use, all in a compact powerboat that you can tow with practically anything. Freshwater or saltwater, fishing or cruising, the CraigCat will amaze you! Discover the CraigCat difference for yourself, test drive one today!

Features With amenities that no other small boat on the planet has to offer! Convertible bimini top, full remote (steering, shifting and throttle), electric key start, electric engine tilt, custom deluxe bucket seats, twin docking lights, NAV lights, LED position light, LED courtesy deck light, high performance JBL saltwater rated AM/FM/USB/ Bluetooth sound system with twin HD 2-way waterproof marine speakers, fishing rod holders (4), custom composite full-width storage compartment, polished stainless steel beverage holders, splash-off and cooler.

E2 Elite Fully loaded (white and blue) Tohatsu 30HP – $13,985 | 25HP – $13,785, Mercury 30HP – $14,985

E2 Elite Fully Loaded Gulf Stream Edition (seafoam and white) Tohatsu 30HP – $14,484 | 25 – $14,284, Mercury 30HP – $15,484

E2 Elite Fully Loaded Tahitian (tan and beige) Tohatsu 30HP – $14,384 | 25HP – $14,184, Mercury 30HP – $15,384

E2 Elite Fully Loaded Key West Edition (yellow and red) Tohatsu 30HP – $14,384 | 25HP – $14,184, Mercury 30HP – $15,384

Custom Ez Loader trailer – $1,488

Specifications Speed: Up to 30 mph Length: 11’4”. On the trailer15’. Width: 5’5”. On the trailer 6’. Draft: (Engine full down) 13”, (Engine up) 3” Average full consumption: 1 gallon per hour. 6 gallon capacity. Weight: 550 LBS. On the trailer 800LBS. Rated Capacity: 250 LBS per seat, 600LBS total Power: Mercury, Tohatsu 30hp

E2 Elite model build sheet with prices. Click here to download.

Available in these styles: Click the bars below to see photos. Click on photos to enlarge.

E2 Elite - Click for Photos

E2 Gulf Stream - Click for Photos

E2 Tahitian - Click for Photos

E2 Key West - CLICK for PHOTOS

e2 CAMO - CLICK FOR PHOTOS

$975 / Exclusive Package Add-On

Exclusive Package- CLICK FOR DETAILS

Exclusive package.

CraigCat has taken cool to a whole new level! Introducing the Exclusive Package where high tech meets luxury. The Exclusive Package features high intensity LED NAV lights with a polished stainless steel finish, LED courtesy deck light, QUAD (4) super high intensity forward facing LED docking lights with port and starboard facing LED docking lights, top-of-the-line Infinity sound system – 3.5” color LCD display AM/FM/USB/Bluetooth/weather-band, additional HD rail mounted 2-way Kicker speakers (total of 8 speaker system), and custom exclusive badging.

• Upgrade any E2 Elite or Catch-it model with the exclusive series package: $975

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Next Generation High Performance Bay Boats

• By Jim Hendricks
• August 7, 2023

’Twas a time not so long ago when a bay boat with twin outboards stood out as an oddity, a Frankenstein experiment of sorts, viewed as overkill, unnecessary or just showing off. Yet, fast forward to today, and that’s no longer the case. As models have grown larger and now boast hybrid hulls and interiors with offshore, as well as inshore, capabilities, the era of the twin-outboard-power bay boat is upon us. Here are 10 examples of such twin-outboard center-console machines (listed in order of length overall from smallest to largest).

YELLOWFIN 26 HYBRID

The Y ellowfin 26 Hybrid represents one of the smallest bay boats available with twin outboards. This highly customizable, offshore capable model can handle a pair of outboards up to 500 hp total. For inshore fishing, it drafts just 1 feet, 4 inches, striking a practical compromise between the shallows and bluewater. The 26 Hybrid carries 118 gallons of fuel, and there are hardtop and tower options to customize this model for the way you fish. You can also order the forward seating option or choose an insulated coffin box for the forward deck. An upright livewell resides in the leaning post module abaft the helm seating.

• Draft: 1’4” (engines up)
• Transom Deadrise: 21 degrees
• Weight: 5,000 lb.
• Fuel Capacity: 118 gal.
• Max Horsepower: 500

SHEARWATER 270 CAROLINA OPEN

The 270 Carolina Open from ShearWater represents one of the first bay boats to confer this genre with available twin outboards, making it a bit of a curiosity about a decade ago, but now it is one among the mainstream in twin-outboard bay boat category. At 26 feet, 10 inches in length, it carries a maximum horsepower rating a 600. The HPI (High Pressure Injection) system results in a high-strength, lightweight hull, which sports an 8-foot, 8-inch beam. The 270 Carolina Open drafts 1 foot, 4 inches with the engines up and provides a fuel capacity of 129 gallons. It is available with twin Mercury or Yamaha outboards, including Merc 225 V-6s and Yamaha F300 V-6s.

• LOA: 26’10”
• Transom Deadrise: NA
• Weight: 4,800 lb. (without power)
• Fuel Capacity: 129 gal.
• Max Horsepower: 600

SEAVEE 270Z

SeaVee Boats 270Z Bay is available with twin outboards up to 600 hp total. The 27-footer boasts a 9-foot-1-inch beam and reflects a traditional bay-boat interior, with forward and aft casting platforms that sit high and spacious, 1-inch-high toe kicks all around, and a recessed cockpit amidships. The vacuum-resin-infusion process used to build the hull and deck translates into lighter weight and a shallower draft. With 17 degrees of transom deadrise, the double-stepped hull drafts just 1 foot, 3 inches of water at rest. Multiple lifting bodies of the double-stepped Z-hull optimize the trim angle to help smooth the ride. A 116-gallon fuel tank provides ability to fish far and wide. Inside, twin insulated 6-foot-long 75-gallon fish boxes and a stowage space for a 5-gallon bucket and eight life jackets are built into the forward casting platform and drain overboard. A 25-gallon livewell is integrated into the forward cockpit, and a 30-gallon pressurized livewell resides under the aft deck. There’s also a foldout bench seat concealed under the aft deck. The center console has room for flush-mounting a MFD as large as 16 inches. It also features forward seating and a 68-quart cooler underneath. An optional hardtop is available, and it’s engineered to accommodate a second station aloft.

• Draft: 1’3” (engines up)
• Transom Deadrise: 17 degrees
• Weight: 3,500 lb. (without power)
• Fuel Capacity: 116 gal.

EVERGLADES 273CC

The Everglades 273CC sports twin Yamaha F300 DES outboards, and there’s an option to add the Yamaha Helm Master EX system. Drafting just 1½ feet, the 273CC boasts a wave-slicing variable-deadrise V-hull with 20 degrees transom deadrise, generous freeboard and Everglades RAMCAP construction. A spacious forward casting platform is made possible by a filler placed between the bow seating/lounge modules. Remove the filler for unobstructed access to the bow. The aft platform is abbreviated, but has a pair of jump seats. A 31-gallon livewell resides in the leaning post abaft the deluxe helm seats, along with tackle-storage and bait-prep center, and a sink with a pullout freshwater washdown hose. An insulated 82-gallon fish box resides below the forward deck. The standard hardtop features an aluminum powder-coating frame, LED lighting, an electronics box, four rod holders, and a ski pylon for days when watersports supplant fishing. Everglades equips the 273CC with a tempered-glass windshield that slides downward at the push of button to usher in a breeze on sultry days. A variety of optional marine electronics packages is available from Garmin.

• Draft: 1’6” (engines up)
• Transom Deadrise: 20 degrees
• Weight: 7,500 lb. (with power)
• Fuel Capacity: 157 gal.

GRADY-WHITE 281 CE

The Grady-White 281 CE is available with twin Yamaha F300 DES outboards. The Yamaha Helm Master EX with the optional Full Maneuverability package is a great option with the twin-outboard setup. The Grady SeaV2 hull on this boat features 16 degrees of transom deadrise that artfully sharpens at cutwater. The sheer sweeps gracefully upward and incorporates a classic Carolina flare for a smooth, dry ride. For fishing inshore, the 281 CE drafts 1 foot, 7 inches. The layout includes a wide-open forward casting platform formed by using the forward snack tabletop and a crescent-shaped insert as fillers. Remove both to create unfettered access to the bow between the forward loungers. The aft platform doubles as a comfy bench seat, but remove the middle backrest and swing the two outer backrests 90 degrees to serve as elevated coamings while standing. The 281 sports a 38-gallon livewell in the leaning post and an integral hardtop with a wraparound, full-height windshield. The 281 CE is also the only bay boat to feature a fully electric-powered side door. This standard feature is called the Sport Deck, and it pivots downward to serve as a cool swim platform or haul a big offshore fish aboard.

• Draft: 1’7” (engines up)
• Transom Deadrise: 16 degrees
• Weight: 5,650 lb. (without power)
• Fuel Capacity: 160 gal.

BOSTON WHALER 280 DAUNTLESS

The 280 Dauntless is available with twin Mercury 250 or 300 outboards. With a 27-foot-9-inch length overall, 9-foot beam and a transom deadrise of 18 degrees, the 280 can float in 1½ feet of water with the outboards trimmed up. A big bow casting platform converts to bow seats and lounges. There’s a 19-gallon livewell and a large forward fish box with a pump-out. A swim patio deploys from the port side of the aft cockpit for convenient access to the water. An optional gyrostabilizer (a rare feature on a bay boat) minimizes roll. A full-height three-sided glass windshield (with a vent atop the center panel) protects the helm, and the console dash includes Simrad navigation electronics, a JL Audio system and digital switching. The doublewide helm seat has flip-down armrests and flip-up bolsters so you can sit or stand while driving. The helm seat also can electrically convert to a simple leaning post for the captain at the helm while creating two aft-facing seats for crew.

• Transom Deadrise: 18 degrees
• Weight: 5,495 lb. (without power)

CAYMAS 281 HB

The Caymas 281 HB  hybrid bay boat is available with twin Mercury, Suzuki and Yamaha outboards up to 600 hp total. A 200-gallon fuel capacity results in superb cruising range. A Michael Peters double SVVT (Stepped-Vee Ventilated Tunnel) hull delivers speed, a smooth ride, and fuel efficiency. With 18.5 degrees of transom deadrise, the 281 HB drafts 1 foot, 4 inches at rest with the outboard(s) tilted up. Roomy bay-boat-style casting decks lie fore and aft, with a cockpit in between providing 26 inches of gunwale height. Amenities include a pair of 35-gallon livewells, foldout seating under the stern deck, a 45-gallon forward fish box, and roomy stowage lockers for tackle and gear. A tempered-glass windshield with a powder-coated aluminum frame protects the helm that includes a fiberglass leaning post with flip-up bolster seats and a backrest, four rod holders, a pair of stainless-steel drink holders, and a rigging station on the backside. The dash will accommodate a pair of 12-inch multifunction displays. Hardtop options with and without second stations aloft boast powder-coated aluminum pipework.

• LOA: 27’11”
• Transom Deadrise: 18.5 degrees
• Weight: 4,300 lb. (without power)
• Fuel Capacity: 200 gal.

SCOUT 281 XSS

Scout’s 281 XSS is available with twin Mercury 225 DTS V-6s or 300 Pro XS V-8s. Advanced epoxy-infused carbon-fiber and E-glass construction minimizes weight, ensures durability and maximizes performance. With 15.5 degrees of transom deadrise, 281 XSS drafts just 1 foot, 2 inches. Yet the double-stepped hull has a sharp entry to slice through choppy seas. Big casting platforms fore and aft give anglers plenty of elevation. A fuel capacity of 126 gallons offers great fishing range. An 18-gallon livewell integrates into the leaning post, as is a slide-out 65-quart cooler, four rod holders, and lockers for fishing tackle. Under the aft casting deck is a pair of voluminous fish boxes that can be optionally plumbed as livewells. There’s also dedicated fender stowage and a foldout bench seat. A pair of helm chairs cradle the captain and co-pilot, and the helm features a pair of Garmin 10-inch multifunction displays. There’s an additional switch panel in the intricately crafted hardtop, which also includes four Fusion stereo speakers. A three-sided glass windshield shelters the helm area. An inviting forward console lounge features backrests and fold-down armrests. In the bow you’ll find wraparound seating with backrests to create a pair of forward-facing lounges. Classic Scout styling and optional colors add to the pride of ownership.

• Draft: 1’2” (engines up)
• Transom Deadrise: 15.5 degrees
• Weight: 5,457 lb. (without power)
• Fuel Capacity: 126 gal.

SOLACE 30 HCS

Solace Boats’ 30 HCS (Hybrid Center Step) is powered by twin Mercury Verado 400 V-10 outboards. The hull has a twin-step, variable-deadrise ventilated hull with a high-density PVC composite transom that offers 21 degrees of deadrise. Vacuum-infused carbon-fiber and epoxy laminate construction ensure strength and minimizes weight. The interior layout does away almost entirely with elevated casting platforms to maintain a consistent cockpit depth throughout. A pair of chairs sit atop the cover of the two 30-gallon transom livewells. The backrest of the cushioned seats pivot to let crewmembers face fore or aft. There are walk-throughs on both sides of the transom to access the swim platform, and you’ll find two 35-gallon in-deck fish boxes flanking the cockpit. The console features a seamless integrated three-sided glass windshield with electric rams to fully open the front panel, and a pair of deluxe helm seats cradle captain and co-pilot. The back of the leaning post has a rigging center with a sink, faucet and cutting boards, and a cooler underneath. The forward console has a lounge, and wraparound seating adorns the bow. Entrance to the console lies to port, and the interior provides more than 6 feet of headroom, a vanity with a Corian countertop, a stainless-steel sink, and an electric macerated freshwater toilet. An optional stand-through upper station is available.

• LOA: 29’10”
• Beam: 9’10”
• Weight: 10,000 lb. (with power)
• Fuel Capacity: 187 gal.

REGULATOR 30XO

Regulator’s 30XO features include twin Yamaha F300 DES outboards, and Yamaha’s Helm Master EX joystick control is an available option. You can also order an optional half-tower station, and a convertible tackle and entertainment station. A forward casting platform with deep gunwales enhances safety. The aft casting platform offers jump seats that fold out from underneath. Anglers will love the combined 341 gallons of fish box, livewell and storage space, the 10 rocket launchers on the helm station, and optional under-gunwale locking rod storage. The 30XO offers plenty of seating, with the option to upgrade to diamond-quilted upholstery and add teak accents for a rich, classic look. The standard forward console settee delivers 218 quarts of cooler space, while the flush-folding rear cockpit seats house integrated dual bucket holders, an oversize bilge and a mechanical access center. The dash can accommodate two 16-inch Garmin 8616xsv multifunction displays. Regulator’s proprietary user interface called MyHelm offers easy-to-use functions on the touchscreen. The system even has its own key fob for controlling the Power-Poles, jack plate, spreader lights, light bar and deck lights. With 15 degrees of transom deadrise and a draft of 1 foot, 9 inches, the 30XO can ply inshore waters, but the hull also has the forward-V and heft to safely head offshore.

• Beam: 10”2”
• Draft: 1’9” (engines up)
• Transom Deadrise: 15 degrees
• Weight: 9,525 lb. (with power)
• Fuel Capacity: 222 gal.
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The NEW 2025 Sea-Doo Switch Fish Pontoon Boat

Eugene L.    08.29.24

Sea-Doo has brought out another addition to the award-winning Switch family of pontoon boats with the new 2025 Switch Fish .  This is the most accessible and adaptable model of pontoon boats that Sea-Doo offers, capable of being either a dedicated fishing machine or a family pleasure boat with just a few steps.  These are going to be available in two lengths, 18′ or 21′, with both being powered by the Rotax 1630 ACE – 230 hp engine (18’ also available with 170 hp Rotax). The Sea-Doo Switch Fish comes from the factory loaded with with a ton of features. Starting with four corner doors that give easy access to the water in both the front and back of the boat. For electronics, the Switch Fish comes with two Garmin 7″ touchscreen graphs, and an 80lb thrust Garmin Force Kraken trolling motor. This trolling motor comes with integrated wiring to keep things neat up front, as well as a secure storage locker for the motor when not in use. Additionally, the Switch Fish comes with two adjustable pedestal seats at the front of the boat, a quick attach 18-gallon cooler/livewell, and LinQ rod holders that can attach anywhere on the railing of the boat. All of these features can also be easily removed as well. So if your plans don’t include fishing for the day, the modular design of the Switch Fish lets you change that fishing space into a family fun space.

The new 2025 Sea-Doo Switch Fish has an MSRP that starts at $44,299 and should start being available to order this Fall.

2025 Sea-Doo Switch Fish Key Features

• Trolling package – Garmin Force Kraken 24V, 80-lbs thrust, 57 in shaft trolling motor with GT56UHD-TR transducer
• Garmin 7″ touchscreen GPS and Fish Finder at the console and at the bow
• Bow screen mount kit
• 2 lead-acid batteries, lead/AGM/gel/lithium battery charger
• 2 Fishing pedestal seats
• Quick-Attach 18 US gal (68 L) Cooler and Livewell
•  Washdown and spray nozzle
• Quick-Access rod storage and LinQ Lite rail rod holders
• Trolling motor storage
• Swim platform with LinQ attachment points
• Storage compartment lock
• BRP Audio System
• Quick-adjust handlebar
• Swim platform carpet
• 4 corner doors
• Unique coloration – Wilderness Green
• Three Models – 18′-170, 18′-230, and 21′-230
• Max Person Capacity – 8 people for the 18′ and 10 people for the 21′
• Max Load Capacity – 1,155lbs for the 18′ and 1,485lbs for the 21′
• Hull – Tri-Hull made from Polytec
• Estimated Net Weight – 2,548lbs, 2,557lbs, and 2,889lbs
• Length – 17.4′ and 20.4′
• Width/Beam – 93.5″
• Height – 81.1″
• Available – Fall
• MSRP – Starts at $44,299

Eugene L. is currently a writer for OutdoorHub who has chosen not to write a short bio at this time.

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Seven Fast Pontoon Boats

• By Boating Tech Team
• Updated: October 15, 2020

Of all the things people love about pontoon boats—like how they’re great for entertaining and packed with creature comforts—performance is not often mentioned at the top of the list. But a modern pontoon boat equipped with a triple-tube package can achieve robust speeds and execute graceful, carving turns like a V-hull. Here are seven pontoons with triple tubes that perform just as well as they entertain.

PlayCraft PowerToon X-Treme 3000

In terms of pure, raw speed, no one else does pontoons like PlayCraft. Thirty years ago, its founder, Jim Dorris, looked at the popularity of performance boats on Lake of the Ozarks and asked: Why can’t we retain the leisure and social atmosphere of a pontoon boat while building it to power comfortably and easily accelerate to 70 mph? Our test of the X-Treme 3000 on Lake of the Ozarks answered that question with an exclamation point. Powered by dual Mercury Racing 450 outboards, our test boat hit a top speed of 78.1 mph, giving it the chops to take on—and pass—many traditional boats labeled as go-fasts.

Of course, performance is more than top-end speed. The twin Mercs popped us up on top and cruised at 30 mph in 5.2 seconds. Thanks to the electronic throttles and power steering, the triple-tube PowerToon banked comfortably into tight turns, held its line at speeds in excess of 40, and accomplished it all effortlessly.

Designing a boat for speed mandates considering aerodynamics as well as hydrodynamics. A nod to aerodynamics appears in the wedge-shaped bow and the sleek Bimini top. One of the originators of pontoon lifting strakes, PlayCraft employs them on three tubes to get on top of the water, reducing drag and increasing speed all while retaining the soft ride of a pontoon.

In the comfort department, furnishings on board, from the deck to the shoulder cushions, are upholstered in UV-protected vinyl. Color combinations are virtually unlimited, and owners can even match them to their favorite football team. Exterior colors are offered in a broad spectrum too. Color-matched, powder-coated tubes and rails are for durable good looks.

The fiberglass-molded helm station is raised, giving a clear view above the crew. The captain’s chair swivels and reclines, and the armrests automatically adjust to the correct, comfortable angle. There are three boarding options: the wide bow deck, a wheelchair-width portside gate, and the stern platform. An extra-long boarding ladder integrated into the pontoon is patented and exclusive to PlayCraft.

How We Tested

Engines: Twin Mercury Racing 450 hp V-8 supercharged

Drive/Props: Outboard/Bravo FS 24″ 4-blade stainless steel

Gear Ratio: 1.60:1

Fuel Load: 25 gal.

Crew Weight: 400 lb.

Price: $229,000

PlayCraft Boats – Richland, Missouri; 573-765-3265; playcraftboats.com

Bennington 25 QX Fastback

Even sitting at the dock, the 25 QX Fastback exudes pontoon performance. The molded fiberglass bow rakes sharply toward the water. Fiberglass-cladded rails are sharply faceted and completely devoid of the slightest hint of traditional fencing. Spanning the twin consoles, a low-profile, steeply raked walk-through windshield is deeply tinted, adding an air of mystery to the passengers behind. At the stern, side panels finish in a mix of bright stainless steel and wire mesh. Add a swept-forward overhead arch, a 350 hp Yamaha outboard color-matched to the new-for-2020 Monaco Blue exterior, and a blacked-out trio of top rail, pontoon skirt and deck rail, and the 25 QX looks ready to rumble.

On the water, it didn’t disappoint. Bennington equipped our test model with the ESP Performance Package, one of the most dramatic pontoon configurations on the market. The central tube is a sizable 32 inches in diameter and elliptical in shape. Flanked by 25-inch outer pontoons, it produces handling similar to a V-hull. With our Yamaha 350 test motor, the craft powered onto plane in 4.4 seconds, reached 30 mph in 7.1, and topped out at nearly 48 mph.

In the Bennington model lineup, the letter “Q” denotes luxury. Evidence on this boat abounds. The interior’s clean graphite palette perfectly complemented the blue exterior. Forward, twin wraparound benches line the sides, turning into a full wraparound bench if you add the gate filler seat. The graphite theme continues at the helm, offset by complementary wood-grain accents. Chrome-clad rocker switches are neatly arrayed across the bottom of the dash. Above, an optional Simrad GO9 GPS touchscreen display eliminates any gauge cluster.

To port, a co-captain’s chair is perched behind the port console, the latter featuring granitelike counter space and an optional stainless-steel sink with faucet. Aft, Bennington’s Quad Bench mixes seating capacity with lounge space, featuring twin couches that wrap toward a central gate, and forward-facing backrests should occupants want to stretch. Off the sizable swim platform, additional cup holders, a stereo and an oversize stainless-steel boarding ladder await.

Engine: Yamaha 350

Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series XL 16 1/4″ x 15″ 3-blade stainless steel

Gear Ratio: 1.73:1

Fuel Load: 45 gal.

Crew Weight: 360 lb.

Price: $140,030 (with test power, Elliptical Sport Package)

Bennington Pontoon Boats – Elkhart, Indiana; 888-906-2628; benningtonmarine.com

Harris Crowne 270 SL TE

The Harris Crowne 270 SL TE is a boat that can’t drive 55. In fact, it can go faster. Powered by twin Mercury 400 outboards, this boat hopped onto plane in a mere 3.6 seconds, reaching 30 mph in less than 7 seconds more before topping out at 61.2 mph. The key attribute? The Crowne’s triple 27-inch pontoons with strakes designed specifically for twin-engine performance.

The Crowne 270 SL TE has a look that goes beyond the sedate pontoon. Key to its look is the replacement of the traditional pontoon fence enclosures with sleek, curvy fiberglass. Four fiberglass modules occupy the four corners of the deck outline, the forward pair curving aggressively toward the water. Those modules incorporate the Crowne’s outer walls as well as seat bases. The result is a boat that fits in at both a sandbar party and yacht-club cocktail hour.

Step through the stainless-steel bow gate and parallel benches flank the walkway. Harris angles the seat bottom’s profile to provide a more open, spacious feel, topping off the backrests with comfy pillow tops and accenting the lumbar region with diamond-pattern stitching. Finished stowage with drains is found below.

At the helm, the captain is greeted with billet dash accents, a stainless-steel spoke wheel, and an attractive vinyl wrap with accent stitching. A central Medallion Glass Dash touchscreen is standard-issue; a second touchscreen control to starboard replaces traditional switches. On our test boat, both were complemented by an additional Simrad display. Aft, an L-shaped bench includes an optional rear-facing lounger with powered flip-flop backrest. Its linear actuated motor was nearly silent and allowed almost unlimited stages of recline for both forward or aft-facing seating.

Fast is fun, but the optional Mercury Joystick Piloting system made handling this boat a simple pleasure. The intuitive joystick control allowed us to literally make kid’s play of docking, effortlessly maneuvering the Crowne around a tight marina in the stiffest of crosswinds.

Engines: Twin Mercury 400 Verado

Drive/Props: Outboard/Mercury Revolution 4 14 5/8″ x 21″ 4-blade stainless steel

Gear Ratio: 1.75:1

Fuel Load: 58 gal.

Crew Weight: 350 lb.

Price: $306,000

Harris Boats – Fort Wayne, Indiana; 260-432-4555; harrisboats.com

Lowe SS 250 WS

How does it feel to take the helm of the Lowe SS 250 WS? At speed, the SS 250 WS presses you back against the lush living room of upholstery surrounding the crew. In turns, the power steering gives smooth control, and Mercury’s dynamic throttle easily maintains torque by feeding in throttle to keep the boat turning smoothly instead of dumping speed and wallowing through the turn. In straightaways, each nudge of the throttle returns rewarding acceleration up to a top speed of 51.6 mph.

The performance that comes from the 300 hp Mercury, the added buoyancy of a third pontoon, and the reduced drag from strakes that lift the tubes to the surface of the water optimize horsepower and increase the fun. Triple pontoons, 25 inches in diameter, are made of 0.08-gauge aluminum, and a protective keel guards the leading edge from impact. Also provided by triple tubes is buoyancy to ride clear of rough wakes.

Enhancing comfort on board this speedster are dual acrylic and fiberglass consoles complete with a beam-to-beam windshield that protects you from wind while its low-profile design adds to the boat’s sleek appearance. Also benefitting from the power are watersports enthusiasts who might enjoy skiing, wakeboarding or tubing at the end of a rope secured to the optional pylon.

Style points at the helm include optional reclining chairs for the captain and mate. Armrests automatically adjust for comfort. Lounge seating surrounds the area forward of the windshield, but the low-profile design of the windshield keeps captain and crew in touch. The elevation of both consoles also enhances the view forward.

Aft seating is divided at the center stern boarding gate. A standard acrylic cocktail table was upgraded on our test boat with a clear acrylic table, with stainless-steel cup holders and wineglass holders for four. Three boarding gates, including a portside wheelchair-accessible gate, offer plenty of boarding options and also ease docking duties. Lowe’s durable construction, reliable power and knack for creating luxury on the water make performance, fun and comfort givens on the SS 250 WS.

Engine: Mercury 300 hp FourStroke V-8

Drive/Prop: Outboard/Enertia 14.7″ x 16″ 3-blade stainless steel

Fuel Load: 20 gal.

Crew Weight: 200 lb.

Price: $53,287

Lowe Boats – Lebanon, Missouri; 800-641-4372; loweboats.com

Manitou 25 Legacy SL

Like nearly all Manitou models we’ve tested over the years, the 25 Legacy SL featured an ultra-smooth ride and a sporty, inside lean through the corners that’s more akin to a traditional V-hull. Chalk it up to the builder’s patented V-Toon technology. Twin 25-inch pontoons flank a central 27-inch pontoon, dropped lower than the outer tubes. Taking into account the central tube’s added girth, the effect lowers the bottom of the center pontoon a full 5¼ inches and mimics a V-hull’s shape. Add the wide, positive-angle lifting strakes of Manitou’s Sport Handling Package (SHP) on all three tubes, Teleflex SeaStar Power Assist steering, and a performance transom design, and the result is a boat that powers instantly onto plane, banks sweetly into turns and, with our test boat’s 300 hp Evinrude G3, tops out at over 48 mph. (Manitou now offers Mercury outboard power.)

Manitou carries the performance feel below up to the look and feel of the helm above. Here, a standard 7-inch Garmin touchscreen display is surrounded in the brand’s trademark billet aluminum, an accent that carries over to the retaining gate for a padded mobile-phone tray, the propellerlike spokes of the tilt steering wheel and, in more functional fashion, the billet transom. Elsewhere, an optional matte-black powder coat provides a pleasant contrast, coloring the stylish supports for the minimalist glass windscreen, traditional pontoon fencing and Bimini hardware.

While both handling and styling scream performance, the Legacy’s interior is all luxury. Forward, parallel lounges, one 5 feet, 4 inches and the other 5 feet, 10 inches, feature generous thigh bolsters, and artistic, quiltlike stitching in the lumbar region. That same stitch pattern is found in the twin captain’s chairs (each with its own flip-up bolster) and on the interior panels of the aft SL lounge. The latter can be set up as a forward-facing bench with rear playpen, forward or aft-facing recliner, or just one giant 6-foot-8-inch-by-5-foot-2-inch sun bed. Eight cup holders surround the perimeter.

Engine: Evinrude G2 300

Drive/Prop: Outboard/Evinrude Rebel 15 1/2″ x 16″ 3-blade stainless steel

Gear Ratio: 1.85:1

Fuel Load: 43 gal.

Price: $94,700

Manitou Pontoon Boats – Lansing, Michigan; 517-322-3822; manitoupontoonboats.com

Sylvan L-3 DLZ

Sylvan rigged the L-3 DLZ with performance in mind, and boy, does it fly. With the 250 hp Evinrude G2 for power, it leaped from a standing start to 30 mph in just 6 seconds. Top speed was nearly 45 mph at just under 6,000 rpm. Sound levels, however, didn’t get elevated until after about 4,000 rpm; at most economical cruise speed (21 mph, 3,500 rpm, 3.2 mpg), we recorded just 72 decibels—quiet enough for conversation. While we tested the boat with an Evinrude, we expect similar results with the available Yamaha, Mercury, Honda and Suzuki power choices.

This Sylvan is an excellent multipurpose rig, and it’s stylish, with new exterior fencing and décor for 2020. For cruising and partying, a set of short lounges in the bow face each other and will fit a couple of people each. The new Ultra Soft vinyl upholstery proved comfortable and supportive, with recessed roto-cast plastic bases underneath.

Deep insets—aka toe-kicks—allow more room in the cockpit, and don’t cut into underseat storage too much. Storage abounds on the DLZ; the optional SPX Package with optional in-floor storage and teak-weave floor covering gives a modern look and easy cleanup when the day is over.

Amidships, the driver’s console is not raised and features a low, sculpted Lexan windscreen. A simple dash layout features Evinrude’s combination electronic instruments, which have a classic analog look, but offer every engine parameter one needs in LCD digital presentation. A Humminbird Helix 5 LCD graph fits well in the dash center. A Kicker stereo and cellphone-storage pocket complete the helm. Dual captain and co-captain chairs provide a stable navigation station for the skipper and mate.

Read Next: Essential Traits of the Best Pontoon Boats

Behind the cockpit is a nicely done multiposition couch lounger, which can be converted from a forward-facing two-person couch to a rear-facing lounge with a multiposition backrest. Pretty neat.

Abaft, a stainless-steel perimeter fence keeps everyone safe while underway and provides easy access to the stern deck for watersports. A ski tow and boarding ladder add utility and clean style to the stern.

Engine: Evinrude E-Tec G2 two-stroke 250 hp

Drive/Prop: Outboard/15.25″ x 17″ BRP Evinrude Rebel 3-blade stainless steel

Price: $76,235

Sylvan Marine – New Paris, Indiana; 574-831-2950; sylvanmarine.com

Starcraft CX 25 DL Bar

This Starcraft CX 25 DL Bar provides an excellent example of what a triple-tube package can do for you. With a Yamaha F250 outboard bolted to the stout transom bracket, it rockets to 30 mph in a cat-quick 6.7 seconds, and tops out just under 44 mph. The best economy we recorded comes at a nice 21.6 mph clip, turning 3,500 rpm and burning 5.9 gph—that’s nearly 3.7 mpg. This ‘toon rolls through turns with finesse and sure-footedness. It’s a nice ride, to be sure.

With the do-everything CX 25 DL Bar, Starcraft takes its entertaining as seriously as it does the performance, developing a convertible bar-turned-lounge arrangement on the aft deck of this new single-engine 25-footer—and boy, does it turn heads. Raft up to the fleet at the cove or island, lower the bar, then recline and tan yourself awhile. When the sun drops below the yardarm (a phrase denoting cocktail hour aboard boats the world over), convert the arrangement into the entertainment bar and watch as crowds of friends and family belly up to it. It’s impossible not to notice this cool arrangement, just as it’s impossible not to thoroughly enjoy it.

The foredeck layout is conventional, with two inward-facing lounge couches that feature nice curved sections in the bow. The diamond-pleated, tufted-top upholstery is plush; it feels great to sink in and feel the comfort in the wind. And it’s a bit windy because the console offers just a low, sculpted Lexan screen for the driver.

Behind the windscreen is a fully outfitted dash console, with Starcraft electronic instruments that sport a classic analog appearance. The optional blackout perimeter rails add a sleek touch to this performance cruiser, but as mentioned, the real magic is abaft: Once your crew gets a look at that convertible bar/lounge setup, they’ll think of nothing else for a while.

But this craft is fit for watersports as well. Besides the amidships party pit with removable table and the out-back bar setup, there’s a spacious aft deck for swimming, hanging out, or diving in with a tube or wakeboard. It’s got the performance chops to make it all a blast.

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17 Sailboat Types Explained: How To Recognize Them

Ever wondered what type of sailboat you're looking at? Identifying sailboats isn't hard, you just have to know what to look for. In this article, I'll help you.

Every time I'm around a large number of sailboats, I look around in awe (especially with the bigger ones). I recognize some, but with most of them, I'll have to ask the owner. When they answer, I try to hide my ignorance. The words don't make any sense!

So here's a complete list with pictures of the most common sailboat types today. For each of them, I'll explain exactly where the name comes from, and how you can recognize it easily.

So here's my list of popular sailboat types, explained:

Bermuda sloop, sailing hydrofoil, dutch barge, chinese junk, square-rigged tall ship, in conclusion, how to recognize any sailboat.

Before we get started, I wanted to quickly explain what you should look for when you try to identify a sailboat.

The type of sailboat is always determined by one of these four things:

• The type of hull
• The type of keel
• The number of masts
• And the type of sails and rig

The hull is the boat's body. There are basically three hull types: monohull, catamaran, and trimaran. Simply said: do I see one hull, two hulls (catamaran) or three hulls (trimaran)? Most sailboats are monohulls.

Next, there is the keel type. The keel is the underwater part of the hull. Mostly, you won't be able to see that, because it's underwater. So we'll leave that for now.

The sail plan

The last factor is the number of masts and the sail plan. The sail plan, simply put, is the number of sails, the type of sails, and how the sails are mounted to the masts (also called rigging ).

Sailboat are mostly named after the sail plan, but occasionally, a sail type is thrown in there as well.

So now we know what to pay attention to, let's go and check out some sailboats!

Dinghies are the smallest and most simple sailboats around.

They are your typical training sailboats. Small boats with an open hull, with just one mast and one sail. Perfect for learning the ways of the wind.

On average, they are between 6 and 20 ft long. Mostly sailed single-handed (solo). There's no special rigging, just the mainsail. The mainsail is commonly a Bermuda (triangular) mainsail. Dinghies have a simple rudder stick and no special equipment or rigging.

Dinghies are great for learning how to sail. The smaller the boat, the better you feel the impact of your trim and actions.

How to recognize a sailing dinghy:

• short (8ft)
• one Bermuda sail
• open hull design
• rudder stick

Common places to spot them: lakes, near docks

If you'd ask a kid to draw a sailboat, she'll most probably draw this one. The Bermuda Sloop is the most popular and most common sailboat type today. You'll definitely recognize this one.

How to recognize a Bermuda Sloop:

• triangular mainsail (called a Bermuda sail)
• a foresail (also called the jib)
• fore-and-aft rigged
• medium-sized (12 - 50 ft)

Fore-and-aft rigged just means "from front to back". This type of rigging helps to sail upwind.

Any sailboat with one mast and two sails could still be a sloop. Even if the sails are another shape or rigged in another way. For example, here's a gaff-rigged sloop (more on the gaff rig later):

If you want to learn all about sail rigs, check out my full Guide to Understanding Sail Rig Types here. It has good infographics and explains it in more detail

The Bermuda sloop has a lot of advantages over other sailboat types (which is why it's so popular):

• the Bermuda rig is very maneuverable and pretty fast in almost all conditions
• it's really versatile
• you can sail it by yourself without any problems
• it's a simple setup

Common places to spot a sloop: everywhere. Smaller sloops are more common for inland waters, rivers, and lakes. Medium-sized and large sloops are very popular cruising boats.

Cutters have one mast but three or more sails. Most cutters are Bermuda rigged, which means they look a lot like sloops.

How to recognize a cutter:

• looks like a sloop
• two or more headsails instead of one
• commonly one mast
• sometimes an extra mast with mainsail

Cutters have more sail area, which makes them faster, but also harder to sail single-handed. There's also more strain on the mast and rigging.

Common places to spot a cutter: everywhere. Cutters are very popular for cruising.

They mostly have a Bermuda rig, which means triangular sails. But there are also gaff cutters and naval cutters, and some have two masts.

Here's an example of a two-masted naval cutter with an extra gaff mainsail and top gaff:

The Hydrofoil is a pretty new sailboat design. It's a racing sailboat with thin wing foils under the hull. These lift up the hull, out of the water, reducing the displacement to nearly zero. The foils create downforce and keep it from lifting off entirely.

This makes the hydrofoil extremely fast and also impressive.

The hydrofoil refers to the keel type. There are both monohull and multihull hydrofoils.

How to recognize a hydrofoil:

• it flies above the waterline and has small fins

Common places to spot a hydrofoil: at racing events

Famous catamaran: La Vagabonde from Sailing La Vagabonde

A catamaran is a type of cruising and racing multihull sailboat with two hulls. The hulls are always the same size.

Most catamarans have a standard Bermuda rig. The catamaran refers to the hull, so it can have any number of masts, sails, sail types and rig type.

How to recognize a catamaran:

• any boat with two hulls is called a catamaran

Common places to spot catamarans: coastal waters, The Caribbean, shallow reefs

The advantages of a catamaran: Catamarans heel less than monohulls and are more buoyant. Because of the double hull, they don't need as deep a keel to be stable. They have a smaller displacement, making them faster. They also have a very shallow draft. That's why catamarans are so popular in the Caribbean, where there's lots of shallow water.

Catamarans are nearly impossible to capsize:

"Compared with a monohull, a cruising catamaran sailboat has a high initial resistance to heeling and capsize—a fifty-footer requires four times the force to initiate a capsize than an equivalent monohull." Source: Wikipedia

How to recognize a trimaran:

• any boat with three hulls is called a trimaran

Trimarans have three hulls, so it's a multi-hull design. It's mostly a regular monohull with two smaller hulls or floaters on the sides. Some trimarans can be trailered by winching in the auxiliary hulls, like this:

This makes them very suitable for long-term cruising, but also for regular docking. This is great for crowded areas and small berths, like in the Mediterranean. It sure is more cost-effective than the catamaran (but you also don't have the extra storage and living space!).

Common places to spot Trimarans: mostly popular for long-term cruising, you'll find the trimaran in coastal areas.

Gaffer refers to gaff-rigged, which is the way the sails are rigged. A gaff rig is a rectangular sail with a top pole, or 'spar', which attaches it to the mast. This pole is called the 'gaff'. To hoist the mainsail, you hoist this top spar with a separate halyard. Most gaffers carry additional gaff topsails as well.

Gaff rigs are a bit less versatile than sloops. Because of the gaff, they can have a larger sail area. So they will perform better with downwind points of sail. Upwind, however, they handle less well.

How to recognize a gaffer:

• sail is rectangular
• mainsail has a top pole (or spar)

Since a gaffer refers to the rig type, and not the mast configuration or keel type, all sailboats with this kind of rigging can be called 'gaffers'.

Common places to spot a gaffer: Gaffers are popular inland sailboats. It's a more traditional rig, being used recreationally.

Schooners used to be extremely popular before sloops took over. Schooners are easy to sail but slower than sloops. They handle better than sloops in all comfortable (cruising) points of sail, except for upwind.

How to recognize a schooner:

• mostly two masts
• smaller mast in front
• taller mast in the back
• fore-and-aft rigged sails
• gaff-rigged mainsails (spar on top of the sail)

Common places to spot a schooner: coastal marinas, bays

How to recognize a ketch:

• medium-sized (30 ft and up)
• smaller mast in back
• taller mast in front
• both masts have a mainsail

The ketch refers to the sail plan (mast configuration and type of rig). Ketches actually handle really well. The back mast (mizzenmast) powers the hull, giving the skipper more control. Because of the extra mainsail, the ketch has shorter masts. This means less stress on masts and rigging, and less heel.

Common places to spot a ketch: larger marinas, coastal regions

How to recognize a yawl:

• main mast in front
• much smaller mast in the back
• back mast doesn't carry a mainsail

The aft mast is called a mizzenmast. Most ketches are gaff-rigged, so they have a spar at the top of the sail. They sometimes carry gaff topsails. They are harder to sail than sloops.

The yawl refers to the sail plan (mast configuration and type of rig).

Common places to spot a yawl: they are not as popular as sloops, and most yawls are vintage sailboat models. You'll find most being used as daysailers on lakes and in bays.

Dutch Barges are very traditional cargo ships for inland waters. My hometown is literally littered with a very well-known type of barge, the Skutsje. This is a Frisian design with leeboards.

Skutsjes don't have a keel but use leeboards for stability instead, which are the 'swords' or boards on the side of the hull.

How to recognize a Dutch Barge:

• most barges have one or two masts
• large, wooden masts
• leeboards (wooden wings on the side of the hull)
• mostly gaff-rigged sails (pole on top of the sail, attached to mast)
• a ducktail transom

The clipper is one of the latest sailboat designs before steam-powered vessels took over. The cutter has a large cargo area for transporting cargo. But they also needed to be fast to compete with steam vessels. It's a large, yet surprisingly fast sailboat model, and is known for its good handling.

This made them good for trade, especially transporting valuable goods like tea or spices.

How to recognize a Clipper:

• mostly three masts
• square-rigged sails
• narrow but long, steel hull

Common places to spot a clipper: inland waters, used as houseboats, but coastal waters as well. There are a lot of clippers on the Frisian Lakes and Waddenzee in The Netherlands (where I live).

This particular junk is Satu, from the Chesapeake Bay Area.

The Chinese Junk is an ancient type of sailboat. Junks were used to sail to Indonesia and India from the start of the Middle Ages onward (500 AD). The word junk supposedly comes from the Chinese word 'jung', meaning 'floating house'.

How to recognize a Chinese junk:

• medium-sized (30 - 50 ft)
• large, flat sails with full-length battens
• stern (back of the hull) opens up in a high deck
• mostly two masts (sometimes one)
• with two mainsails, sails are traditionally maroon
• lug-rigged sails

The junk has a large sail area. The full-length battens make sure the sails stay flat. It's one of the flattest sails around, which makes it good for downwind courses. This also comes at a cost: the junk doesn't sail as well upwind.

The cat rig is a sail plan with most commonly just one mast and one sail, the mainsail.

Most sailing dinghies are cats, but there are also larger boats with this type of sail plan. The picture above is a great example.

How to recognize a cat rig:

• smaller boats
• mostly one mast
• one sail per mast
• no standing rigging

Cat-rigged refers to the rigging, not the mast configuration or sail type. So you can have cats with a Bermuda sail (called a Bermuda Cat) or gaff-rigged sail (called a Gaff Cat), and so on. There are also Cat Ketches and Cat Schooners, for example. These have two masts.

The important thing to know is: cats have one sail per mast and no standing rigging .

Most typical place to spot Cats: lakes and inland waters

Famous brig: HMS Beagle (Charles Darwin's ship)

A brig was a very popular type of small warship of the U.S. navy during the 19th century. They were used in the American Revolution and other wars with the United Kingdom. They carry 10-18 guns and are relatively fast and maneuverable. They required less crew than a square-rigged ship.

How to recognize a brig:

• square-rigged foremast
• mainmast square-rigged or square-rigged and gaff-rigged

How to recognize a tall ship:

• three or four masts
• square sails with a pole across the top
• multiple square sails on each mast
• a lot of lines and rigging

Square-rigged ships, or tall ships, are what we think of when we think of pirate ships. Now, most pirate ships weren't actually tall ships, but they come from around the same period. They used to be built from wood, but more modern tall ships are nearly always steel.

Tall ships have three or four masts and square sails which are square-rigged. That means they are attached to the masts with yards.

We have the tall ship races every four years, where dozens of tall ships meet and race just offshore.

Most common place to spot Tall Ships: Museums, special events, open ocean

This is a bonus type since it is not very common anymore. As far as I know, there's only one left.

The Trabaccolo is a small cargo ship used in the Adriatic Sea. It has lug sails. A lug rig is a rectangular sail, but on a long pole or yard that runs fore-and-aft. It was a popular Venetian sailboat used for trade.

The name comes from the Italian word trabacca , which means tent, referring to the sails.

How to recognize a Trabaccolo:

• wide and short hull
• sails look like a tent

Most common place to spot Trabaccolo's: the Marine Museum of Cesenatico has a fully restored Trabaccolo.

So, there you have it. Now you know what to look for, and how to recognize the most common sailboat types easily. Next time you encounter a magnificent sailboat, you'll know what it's called - or where to find out quickly.

I loved this article. I had no idea there were so many kinds of sailboats.

i have a large sailing boat about 28ft. that im having a difficult time identifying. it was my fathers & unfortunately hes passed away now. any helpful information would be appreciated.

Jorge Eusali Castro Archbold

I find a saleboat boat but i can find the módem…os registré out off bru’x, and the saleboat name is TADCOZ, can you tell me who to go about this matter in getting info.thank con voz your time…

Leave a comment

You may also like, guide to understanding sail rig types (with pictures).

There are a lot of different sail rig types and it can be difficult to remember what's what. So I've come up with a system. Let me explain it in this article.

The Ultimate Guide to Sail Types and Rigs (with Pictures)

How Much Sailboats Cost On Average (380+ Prices Compared)

Over 100 migrants aboard two boats intercepted near Puerto Rico

by Skyler Shepard

SAN JUAN, PR. (CBS12) — Over 100 migrants were taken to the Dominican Republic on Wednesday after two separate interceptions off the coast of Puerto Rico.

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) said the first interception took place on Monday afternoon, when an aircrew spotted a 20-foot makeshift vessel northwest of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. Boat crews were able to intercept the suspected migrant boat and took custody of 12 migrants — 11 of whom claimed to be Dominican Republic nationals, while one other claimed to be Haitian.

Later that same day, the Coast Guard said the aircrew spotted another boat, about 30 feet long, not far from the first boat. The USCG said multiple law enforcement agencies were able to intercept the very crowded boat.

The USCG said 98 migrants were removed from the second boat —28 claimed to be Dominican Republic nationals, while 70 others claimed to be Haitians.

See also: Watching two areas in the tropics

The Coast Guard said migrants caught at sea or on land cannot stay in the U.S. or its territories. Additionally, those who enter illegally may be denied legal immigration options and sent back to their home country or the country they came from. The Dominican Republic Navy took custody of the 109 migrants.

“The circumstances and conditions migrants face during these voyages are highly dangerous. Most often, they are forced to embark unseaworthy and grossly overloaded makeshift vessels with little or no lifesaving equipment," said Coast Guard Sector San Juan Chief Cmdr. Matthew Romano. "We urge anyone thinking of taking part in one of these voyages to not take to the sea at risk to your life, and instead seek safe, orderly and lawful migration pathways.”

Find more ways to stay up to date with your latest local news. Sign up for our newsletter to get the day's top headlines delivered right to your inbox . Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the biggest stories and can't miss video.

What Is A Catamaran Sailboat? (And What It Looks Like)

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

August 30, 2022

Catamarans are increasingly popular for sailing and commercial use, but what sets them apart from monohulls and other multihulls?

A catamaran is a twin-hull boat with two equally-sized hulls placed side by side. They’re powered by engines, sails, or both—and they’re known for efficiency and speed. Catamarans are the most common kind of multihull boat.

In this article, we’ll go over the characteristics of catamarans and how to differentiate them from other types of boats. Additionally, we’ll cover the advantages and disadvantages of catamarans and compare them to trimarans and monohulls. We’ll also go over the most common types of catamarans and their uses.

We sourced the information in this article from marine design guides, boat identification resources, and the online boating community.

Table of contents

‍ How to Spot a Catamaran

Spotting a catamaran is easy. Simply look at the hulls and count them. Catamarans have two hulls side by side and a relatively large gap between them where you can see light on the other end. Catamarans are distinct from trimarans, which have an additional hull between the two outer hulls.

How do Catamarans Work?

The principle behind the catamaran is simple. You can think of catamarans like cars and monohulls like motorcycles. Catamarans distribute their weight between hulls on either side, whereas monohulls utilize only one hull.

Evidently, cars are much more difficult to tip over and can hold much more weight. Additionally, cars are wider, as they have much more contact with the road. Catamarans work in a similar way, as they have a wide stance and contact with the surface on both sides.

Obviously, that isn’t the most precise comparison. But the basic principle is the same, and catamarans have a few notable benefits over monohulls.

Catamaran Vs Monohull

Catamarans are easy to distinguish from monohulls. A monohull is just a regular old boat with a single hull. The vast majority of boats and ships are monohulls. Catamarans have two hulls, which are usually sleek and narrow.

Here are some comparisons of catamarans and monohulls, along with the advantages twin-hull designs have over most single hull types.

Benefits of Catamarans

Catamarans have numerous benefits. The first is speed. Catamarans produce less drag than monohulls and thus can achieve excessive speeds both under sail and power. They don’t need to plane like monohulls to achieve these high speeds, and they use less fuel.

Catamarans are also much more stable than monohulls. They have a wide stance and shallow draft, and many waves and swells can travel between the hulls instead of below them. This effectively reduces an entire axis of movement and prevents catamarans from rolling excessively.

Drawbacks of Catamarans

Catamarans aren’t advantageous in every way, or else we wouldn’t bother building monohulls. The disadvantages of catamarans limit their use to niche commercial applications and high-end yachts. But what are the drawbacks of a twin-hull design?

Sailing catamarans don’t follow many of the traditional boat handling rules and characteristics that sailors pass down for generations. Some, such as hull speed limitations, are good to do away with—while others, such as responsiveness, are not.

Catamarans aren’t as quick to the helm or responsive as monohulls. There are some exceptions to this rule, but for the most part, you’ll get a lot more feedback from a single-hull vessel. Additionally, the large section of deck between the hulls of a catamaran is prone to pounding in rough seas, which is loud and uncomfortable.

Catamarans can sometimes be twice the width of an equivalent monohull sailboat, which can increase mooring fees and limit docking options.

The final major drawback of catamarans is a consequence of their stability. Traditional full-keel monohull sailboats have a very low center of gravity, which makes them roll in heavy seas but ensures a recovery.

Catamarans have a higher center of gravity, and they can’t right themselves after a knockdown. And though catamarans are less likely to roll, a severe list on a multihull is a much more serious concern than on a ballasted monohull.

Catamaran Vs Trimaran

Catamarans and trimarans are often lumped together, but they have very different design and performance specifications. Trimarans have three hulls, whereas catamarans have two.

Trimarans look a lot like catamarans from the side, but a quick glance at the bow or stern can set them apart. Trimarans are faster than catamarans, as they distribute their weight across three hulls instead of two. This helps them stay centered and reduces interference from pitching and rolling.

Catamarans are fast, but they lose out to trimarans when going head to head. However, catamarans are much less expensive to build and maintain and often have roomier cabins due to their larger hulls.

Types of Catamarans

There are numerous types of catamarans, and their uses vary widely. The catamaran is one of the oldest and most useful hull types, and some variants have been used for thousands of years. Here are the most common kinds of catamaran boats and their uses.

Sailing Catamaran

Sailing catamarans are probably what you think of when you hear the name. Sailing catamarans are sailboats with two identical hulls connected by a center deck. The largest sailing catamarans are spacious and stable vessels that are capable of serious offshore sailing.

Sailing catamarans have a number of notable advantages over monohulls. Monohulls, which are traditional sailboats with a single hull, are limited by a simple concept called hull speed. As the bow and stern wave of a monohull intersect, they cause drag which limits the top speed of the boat.

Catamarans are not bound by hull speed limitations, as they have two hulls. Catamarans can go twice or even three times as fast as similar monohulls and achieve excellent travel times.

Catamarans are also more stable than monohulls, as their wide stance and shallow draft reduce the effect of rough water. They don’t heel, as the force of the wind is counteracted by the double hulls. Additionally, modern sailing catamarans can ‘wave pierce’ by cutting through swells instead of riding over them.

Sailing catamarans come in many shapes and sizes. Small sailing catamarans, such as those used in races and regattas, are known for their speed and relative stability compared to light racing monohulls. Sometimes, they feature a smaller second hull for stability—these are called outriggers.

Sailing catamarans have spacious interiors thanks to the large cockpit between the hulls. This cockpit usually contains cooking and eating spaces, a place to sit, and a hallway between the hulls. The hulls usually contain living quarters and often mirror each other.

Power Catamarans

Power catamarans have an even greater variety than sailing catamarans. These vessels are used for everything from party platforms to ferries and patrol boats.

Power catamarans are a recent development, as engineers and marine architects now realize they have numerous hydrodynamic advantages over other hull types.

Catamarans are much more efficient than other hull types, as they have less drag relative to their size. Additionally, you can build a much larger catamaran with less material. This makes them popular for car and rail ferries, as builders can construct a very wide vessel with two small hulls rather than a narrower vessel with a large single hull.

Military and Commercial Catamarans

Even the military has found a use for the catamaran hull shape. The Spearhead class EPF is an expeditionary fast transport vessel designed for carrying capacity and speed. It has two sharp hulls and a huge cargo capacity.

The Spearhead class EPF is 337 feet long, which is about the same length as a WW2 escort destroyer. Yet despite having a similar length and displacement, these catamarans can travel more than twice as fast—43 knots, or nearly 50 miles per hour. Their great speed is a direct consequence of their catamaran hull type.

Power catamarans are also used as patrol and utility boats on a much smaller scale, with either outboard or inboard motors. The State of Texas uses catamarans to patrol shallow rivers and lakes. Texas Game Wardens utilize state-of-the-art aluminum catamaran patrol boats, which are fast enough to outrun most fishing boats.

There’s another form of power catamaran that you may not have considered. Pontoon boats are technically catamarans, and they’re enormously popular on lakes and rivers throughout the country. Pontoon boats aren’t known for speed, but they’re a great platform for a fun and comfortable outing.

Catamaran Houseboats

The final common type of power catamaran is the two-hulled houseboat. Houseboats don’t always use the catamaran hull type, but it’s common enough that most major manufacturers offer it as an option.

Catamaran houseboats have a few notable advantages over monohull designs. For one, they’re easier to build—especially when pontoons are chosen. Additionally, they’re better suited for navigating shallow water. These vessels can support more weight across their two hulls, offer increased stability, and they’re also efficient.

Why Aren’t Catamarans More Common?

With all the advantages listed in this article to consider, it may seem strange that the use of catamarans is still somewhat limited. At the end of the day, it comes down to economics—as monohull boats and ships are simply cheaper to build.

Additionally, catamarans have some distinct limitations. Monohulls have lots of storage space in their hulls and can carry thousands of tons of cargo safely in all weather conditions. Catamarans lack this space and low center of gravity, so they’re not ideal for transporting cargo past a certain point.

Additionally, monohulls work, and many people are reluctant to experiment with new designs when old designs work just fine. This rule applies to both large and small boats.

A large monohull sailboat can be constructed at low cost from stock plans and reliably sail almost anywhere. Very little complex structural engineering is involved, and looser tolerances reduce cost and maintenance requirements.

Related Articles

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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FastCat12™ Catamaran

Inflatable boat, about the fastcat12™ catamaran inflatable boat.

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FastCat12™ Catamaran Reviews

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I love my Seaeagle 12 Fast Cat. Use it almost everyday in Florida. Customer service is great. Had a valve leak and they sent me a box and had it back in a couple of weeks with shipping time. Just the right size if I need to deflate it and store it. Great ride and just a solid built boat.

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The Sea Eagle catamaran-style hull design provides the smoothest ride on the water. Side chambers create lift and reduce friction - increasing fuel economy, handling, and performance while providing an incredible cloud cushioned ride.

Protective Rubbing Strake & Bumper Guard

Protective full-length underside rubbing strakes and side bumper guards provide added protection against bumps and abrasions where it counts most.

Multiple Grab Handles

Seven conveniently located heavy-duty grab handles for ease of carrying and water re-entry.

Universal Scotty Pads & Attachment Locations

Two rear Universal Scotty Pads and dual side pre-drill bench seats Scotty attachment locations allow for the attachment of a vast array of optional Scotty accessories including but not limited to rod holders, triple rod holder, anchor lock, bait board, camera mount, transducer mount, and more!

*Scotty accessories are additional optional purchases. See https://www.seaeagle.com/Accessories/fishing-gear

EZ-Attach Bench Seats

The EZ-Attach Bench Seats are quickly and securely attached by four easy to screw on and off knobs. Attaching your bench seats has never been easier.

Removable Transom

The removable transom makes the FastCat12™ lighter and easier to pack down smaller and check as luggage. Attach the transom and you're ready for up to a 6 hp outboard.

Canopy Attachment System

Protecting yourself from the sun and elements has never been more important. The FastCat12™ is equipped with a Canopy Attachment System for use with the optional Wide Sun & Rain Canopy.

*Wide Sun & Rain Canopy is an additional optional accessory. See https://www.seaeagle.com/Accessories/covers-canopies/wide-canopy

4 Separate Independent Safety Air Chambers

4 Separate Independent Safety Air Chambers for added safety: Starboard Side, Bow, Floor, and Portside. Providing an added level of security and peace of mind.

FastCat12™ Catamaran Discount Packages

Deluxe package.

A great package for those who already have their own motors. Featuring two bench seats, one driver's locking swivel seat, one Quick Release Seatmount, a paddle, manual pump, repair kit, and boat bag.

In Stock   Freight Quote to Russia

Swivel Seat Canopy Package

This Swivel Seat Canopy Package provides protection from the elements. Featuring two bench seats, one driver's locking swivel seat, one passenger swivel seat, two Quick Release Seatmounts, paddle, manual pump, repair kit, boat bag, and canopy.

Watersnake Motor Canopy Package

An excellent electric motor package providing quiet speeds of up to 5 mph. Featuring a canopy, two bench seats, one driver's locking swivel seat, one passenger swivel seat, two Quick Release Seatmounts, two Scotty rod holders, paddle, manual pump, repair kit, boat bag, and the infinitely variable forward and reverse speeds Watersnake Venom 34 lb. thrust dual-purpose (salt/freshwater) electric motor.

50w Solar Boat Package

An excellent electric motor package providing quiet speeds of up to 5 mph. Featuring a canopy with a self-charging solar panel, two bench seats, one driver's locking swivel seat, one passenger swivel seat, two Quick Release Seatmounts, two Scotty rod holders, paddle, manual pump, repair kit, boat bag, and the infinitely variable forward and reverse speeds Watersnake Venom 34 lb. thrust dual-purpose (salt/freshwater) electric motor.

110w Solar Boat Package

Honda Motor Package

An excellent package providing speeds of up to 15 mph and over 30 mpg. Featuring two bench seats, one driver's locking swivel seat, one passenger swivel seat, two Quick Release Seatmounts, two Scotty rod holders, manual pump, repair kit, boat bag, and the reliable Honda 5 hp four-stroke outboard motor.

Ultimate Package

Featuring two bench seats, one driver's locking swivel seat, one passenger swivel seat, two Quick Release Seatmounts, two Scotty rod holders, manual pump, repair kit, boat bag, and the powerful Torqeedo 903L electric motor.

Torqeedo Solar Package

Featuring two bench seats, one driver's locking swivel seat, one passenger swivel seat, two Quick Release Seatmounts, two Scotty rod holders, manual pump, repair kit, boat bag, a powerful Torqeedo 903L electric motor, Solar Panel, & Canopy.

Instructions

Sea Eagle Used Boats

• have never been damaged, punctured or patched
• have been test inflated for 48 hours
• might have very minimal wear (no barnacles or algae)
• are covered by our regular 120 day money back guarantee
• and three year bow-to-stern warranty , just like our new boats.
• might contain prior-generation components

Delivery Estimate

Gray locking swivel seat.

Locking Gray Swivel Seat

Canoe/ SUP Paddle

Adjustable Aluminum Paddle

FC12 Boat Carry Bag

Boat Carry Bag for FastCat12™

SUP Pump w/ Pressure Gauge

Quick Release Seatmount

Wide Canopy

Wide Sun & Rain Canopy

Watersnake Venom 34

Watersnake Venom SX 34lb Thrust Electric Motor (Fresh & Saltwater)

Covered by the Watersnake 1 Year Warranty

All Sales are final. This item is not covered by the Sea Eagle 120 Day Trial.

Scotty Rod Holder

50W Solar Panel

50W Semi-Flexible Solar Panel w/ Charge Controller

Covered by the PowerFilm Solar Panel Warranty

Wide Solar 50 Canopy

Wide Sun & Rain Solar 50 Canopy (For use with 50W

Trolling Motor Power Center

Minn Kota Trolling Motor Power Center

Covered by the Minn Kota Manufacturer Warranty

110w Solar Panel

110 Watt Semi-Flexible Solar Panel w/ Charge Controller

Wide Solar 110 Canopy

Wide Sun & Rain Solar 110 Canopy (For use with 110W solar panel)

Honda 5S (Short Shaft)

Covered by the Honda Marine Warranty

Torqeedo 903L

Travel 903 Long Shaft w/915 Wh Battery

Covered by the Torqeedo Factory Warranty

138w Solar Panel for Torqeedo

138 Watt Semi-Flexible Solar Panel for use with Torqeedo

Covered by the Sol Go Warranty

Wide Solar 138 Canopy

Wide Sun/Rain 138 Solar Canopy (For use with 138 solar panel)

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7 Popular Sailboats with Two Masts (With Pictures & Prices)

Sailboats can come with one, two, or even more masts. You can also have different-sized masts placed on the front, back, or middle of your vessel.

Below, I have listed popular sailboats that have two masts.

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Check also: Average sailboat price examples .

Things to Know About Sailboats With Two Masts

When looking for sailboats with two masts, you should know what you are looking for. A Ketch is one type of sailboat with two masts.

Knowing this term can help you to nail down your search when looking for a boat with two masts.

These boats come in many shapes and sizes as well as many different types of designs. Generally, these types of boats have the taller mast being forward and the smaller mast near the aft.

Yawls are also boats that feature two masts.

These also come in multiple types and designs. The difference between the Ketch and the Yawl is that the Yawl has the larger mast in the aft instead of forward. They also have smaller sails and can be easier to handle.

Another type of sailing ship that features two masts is a Brigantine.

This ship has mixed sailing rigs which commonly features squared sails on the front part of the ship and triangular sails on the back of the ship.

These boats are often larger and require more people to handle them.

7 Great Used Boats with Two Masts

There are many benefits to used boats including a lower cost. You can get a larger boat for a lower cost if you choose to buy used.

When looking at used boats, you need to make sure you look at the boat and its features thoroughly to make sure everything is in great working order.

If you do not feel confident that you can properly look over a used vessel, you can even hire a marine inspector to look it over and let you know of any potential issues or needed repairs. You can use this assessment to decide what is worth it, or if the needed repairs fall into the budget.

It is much more common for a used boat to have more than one mast. This is because the newer sailboat models are creating their new designs with just one mast.

One mast ships are easier to handle and manage so new designs are trying to optimize design and ease of sailing.

Below are great used sailboats with two masts which I have arranged by price .

1. 1976 Westerly Center Cockpit Ketch

This 1976 Westerly Center Cockpit Ketch is a small 36-foot long sailboat with two masts. This is a solidly built cruising vessel that features a center cockpit ketch layout.

This boat has a small 38 horsepower engine perfectly fit to navigate its smaller size.

The interior features 1 single berth and 3 double berths all in 3 cabins. This boat also has 2 full heads onboard.

You also have a full galley with a 4 burner stove, refrigerator and freezer, stainless steel sink, and microwave oven.

This boat makes great use of limited space and offers many amenities in a much smaller frame.

Price: $37,000.00

2. 1978 Jeanneau Gin Fizz

The 1978 Jeanneau Gin Fizz is a trusted and popular two-masted design capable of crossing the Atlantic Ocean .

This boat is also very spacious for a boat that is only 38 feet in length. This model also won an award for “security, comfort, ease of handling, and ability to handle varying conditions.”

This particular used model has been well maintained and upgraded over the years.

This boat is great for family cruising, offshore passages, and even racing.

This boat features a 50 horsepower engine to help navigation.

Inside you can find 2 cabins and 1 head. You will be highly comfortable with air conditioning and other interior luxuries.

Price: $46,000.00

3. 1979 Freedom 40

The Freedom 40 is a classically designed centerboard ketch with two masts. This boat is a great sailor loaded for cruising on the wide-open blue water.

This sailboat is 40 feet in length and features accommodations for six people that include a double-v berth, another double berth, and two single berths.

There is also a full head that can be accessed both from the main salon and aft cabin.

This boat was recently painted and features newer interior fabrics, forced air heating, and much more.

You can find a dinette with separate freezer and refrigeration compartments, a stove with an oven and broiler, a double stainless steel sink, plenty of storage, and other interior features.

This boat also comes with an outboard motor with 50 horsepower and a hard bottom inflatable dinghy.

Price: $54,900.00

4. 1977 Puma 38 Ketch

The Puma 38 Ketch is a two-masted sailboat built for racing like the rest of the Puma sailing line. This brand prides itself on speed and maneuverability.

The 1977 Puma 38 is 34 feet in length with a backup diesel engine that can help you get where you need to go as well as docking into a slip. This motor features more horsepower than the average sailboat with 45 horsepower.

Features on this vessel include autopilot, electrical and manual bilge pumps, a full marine head, running hot water, and refrigerator.

This boat is made of fiberglass with teak finishes and looks well kept. You can find this boat in Spain if you are interested in purchasing it.

Price: $66,099.00

5. 1973 Morgan Out Island 41

Originally designed by Charley Morgan, the Morgan Out Island 41 is a center cockpit shoal-draft cruiser that features two masts.

This larger boat is 41 feet 3 inches in length and features many amenities.

This boat is the tri-cabin version and features interior heating, pressurized hot and cold water, a 2 burner gas oven, and a fridge.

This boat also seats up to 7 in the 3 cabins and the saloon. There are also 2 full heads on this vessel.

This boat is even equipped with an inboard motor . Inboard motors are easier when it comes to navigation including backing up, which is generally hard for sailboats to do.

Price: $68,596.00

6. 1970 Hinckley Bermuda 40

This 1970 Hinckley Bermuda 40 is a gorgeous two-masted boat painted with a mixture of desert sand and oyster white on the exterior and features a beautiful and well-kept deck.

This boat has previously had all her systems replaced and upgraded and features a 40 horsepower engine that was new in 2014.

This boat features a mahogany interior and sleeps up to 6 people in 2 cabins. You can also find a 3 burner propane stove with oven, fridge and compressor, new countertops and plenty of storage.

This boat is a stunning and highly upgraded “must-see” at a very reasonable price.

Price: $129,500.00

7. 1995 Amel Super Maramu

A newer model of sailboat is the 1995 Amel Super Maramu sailboat. This sailboat has two masts and is very long at 53 feet.

This boat features an aft deck, steps molded right into the hull, well-protected cockpit an many other features. This boat has a large 76 horsepower engine which is more than the average sailboat is equipped with.

Inside, this boat features 2 cabins and 2 heads with showers. There is also plenty of storage, air conditioning , and electric heaters. There is also a nice salon and galley with a refrigerator, dishwasher, chest freezer, microwave oven, 3 burner stove, and other appliances.

This boat is great for multiple days out on the water and is new and updated. Because of the year, this was manufactured and the features, this boat has a larger price tag than the previous models.

Price: $299,990.00

Final Thoughts:

Sailboats are a great way to enjoy a day out at sea. Most sailboat models come with sleeping arrangements and even a kitchen. This makes them ideal for trips that will take more than a day.

Having multiple masts allows you to harness the power of the wind better and can increase your speed and directional capabilities.

There are many great choices when it comes to boats with two masts, but newer models are starting to steer away from double mast designs. This does not mean that you cannot get a good boat with two masts.

Used boats can be great choices when it comes to purchasing a boat. This is even more true with large, yacht boats such as the ones listed above.

Just make sure when you buy a used sailboat you check that everything is intact and in good working order and if it is not, you have allotted space in the budget to fix what is needed.

Your new double-masted sailboat should provide you with plenty of long-lasting memories and adventures out on the water while you connect with the wind and the sea.

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Scientists Have a New Theory About Why Orcas Are Attacking Boats

A pod of orcas damaged a boat and left its two-person crew stranded. It was the latest in a string of attacks that research suggests could be used for hunting practice.

By Lynsey Chutel

Reporting from London

The orcas have struck again — this time ramming a sailboat off Spain’s northwest coast, rescue workers said on Tuesday.

A pod of orcas damaged the rudder of a sailboat, leaving its two-person crew stranded in the waters off Cape Finisterre Sunday, according to an emailed statement from the rescue workers. It is the latest in a string of attacks by pods of orcas swimming around the Iberian Peninsula.

While the sailboat, the Amidala, did not sink, pods of orcas have sunk several vessels in recent years. Researchers still do not know whether the attacks are playful or malicious, but a new theory based on studying the troublesome pods of orcas suggests that they could be using the boats as practice targets for new hunting techniques. Other competing theories still exist.

Regardless of the orcas’ intentions, the behavior is enough to worry sailors journeying in the highly trafficked waters around North Africa, Spain and Portugal.

The Amidala, manned by a crew of two Belgians, encountered an unknown number of orcas on Sunday afternoon. They sent a mayday distress call to the Finisterre Maritime Rescue Center, which towed the vessel back to shore, the center said.

The sailboat’s damaged rudder, and poor weather conditions in the area, made the rescue more arduous, with waves reaching up to nearly 10 feet and winds hitting speeds of 40 miles per hour. A female crew member on the Amidala suffered injuries to her hand as the sailboat was being towed, and she was transferred to a rescue vessel, the rescue center said. After more than four hours, the Amidala made it back to shore.

In recent years, sailors have shared tips about how to stop orca rammings, or at the very least deter them. Deterrents include painting the hull a different color. Another tactic is to blast heavy metal music, or to scatter sand into the ocean. There’s also an app that tracks orca activity in the ocean, letting boats steer clear of pods.

Researchers have no definitive explanations about why orcas, seemingly in this region alone, are increasingly ramming ships. One theory suggests that the ramming stems from past traumatic encounters between orcas and boats. Some scientists think it may be simpler than that — as naturally curious and playful mammals, orcas may just be having some fun.

The other, new, theory comes from the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute in Spain, which has been tracking the orca ship rammings since 2020. It has found that orca pods off the coast of Spain, who migrate in the waters between North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula, have developed a taste of Atlantic bluefin tuna, according to a paper the institute will publish next month.

That species of tuna can grow up to 10 feet long and move at speeds that orcas can’t always catch, at least not without training, said Bruno Díaz López, the institute’s chief biologist. Sailboats are often the ideal size to train on — they move quickly and silently, and close to the water’s surface, not unlike the orcas’ prey.

Researchers studying the ramming incidents have found that it is mostly young orcas who go after sailboats, but sometimes adults appear to be teaching younger members of the pod how to do so. The orcas have also figured out that the rudder is soft enough to bite, and that fiberglass makes for good ramming, Mr. Díaz López said.

“This is like a training toy,” Mr. Díaz López said. “It’s a shame that we humans are in the middle of this game, but they are learning.”

Lynsey Chutel covers South Africa and the countries that make up southern Africa from Johannesburg. More about Lynsey Chutel

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Mennonites in the Amazon: Seeking inexpensive land far from modern life, groups of Mennonites are carving out new colonies in Peru . There are fears they are adding to the deforestation of the jungle.

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Miami-Dade police boats to fly safety flag to honor Lourdes student killed in boat crash

The family of Luciana ‘Lucy’ Fernandez, who was killed almost two years ago to the day in a Biscayne Bay boating crash that also left her Our Lady of Lourdes Academy classmate with permanent disabilities, is hoping their tragedy might prevent others from experiencing the same pain.

In the wake of their tragedy, Lucy’s parents created the Lucy Fernandez Foundation , which provides scholarships to their daughter’s beloved alma mater and educates boaters on the importance of operating their vessels safely.

“We never thought we’d have the strength to do it, but this is how much we don’t want to let Lucy down,” her aunt and godmother Vanessa Davies-Perez told the Miami Herald Friday at Black Point Marina in Cutler Bay. “We know we can never bring her back. But, if we can save just one life, that’s as close as we can get.”

The family, including Lucy’s parents Andres and Melissa, were at the marina to deliver flags from the foundation to members of the Miami-Dade County Police Department’s Marine Patrol Unit, which they will fly from their vessels throughout Labor Day weekend.

“This initiative emphasizes boater safety awareness and responsible behavior on the water, a message that resonates strongly as the second anniversary of the tragic boating accident that claimed Lucy’s life approaches,” Melissa Fernandez said Friday.

The foundation calls the pennants “Fly High, Bird” flags. The brief message was a “love letter” Lucy’s younger brother Kevin, now 16, wrote to his big sister the week that she died, the family says.

“His prayer of hope, peace and protection has become our inspiration and the anthem for the Lucy Fernandez Foundation’s Boater and Watercraft Safety Initiative- FLY HIGH, BIRD (FHB). In the spirit of love for the water, fun, AND safety, to fly high means to boat responsibly,” the family wrote on the foundation’s website.

Lucy died as a result of a Sept. 4, 2022, boating accident, when a 29-foot Robalo driven by Doral real estate broker George Pino crashed into a fixed channel marker in Cutter Bank in Biscayne Bay. Pino was traveling at a speed of 47 mph when he crashed, which caused the boat to capsize. All 14 people on board — Pino, his wife Cecilia and 12 teenage girls they had invited to celebrate their daughter’s 18th birthday — were thrown overboard.

They were heading back to the Pino home at the gated Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo after an afternoon at Elliott Key.

Lucy, then 17, was found underneath the capsized vessel and died the next day in the hospital. Her friend, Katerina Puig — a standout soccer player at Lourdes — suffered a traumatic head injury and was left with permanent mental and physical disabilities.

After nearly a year-long investigation, George Pino was charged last August with three counts of careless boating resulting in a death, which is a second-degree misdemeanor that carries a sentence of 60 days in jail and a $500 fine, if the person were to be convicted. Pino has pleaded not guilty, and the case is pending in county court.

Both the Fernandez and Puig families were hoping for more serious charges, given that police found 61 empty alcohol bottles and cans on the boat. Pino told an officer he drank “two beers” and told investigators from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission that the wake from another boat traveling in the opposite direction in the channel caused him to lose control of his vessel.

Witnesses, including everyone on his boat and Good Samaritans who were on the scene moments after the crash, said they never saw that vessel, according to witnesses who spoke with the Herald. The FWC report on the crash reached the same conclusion.

GPS data studied by the FWC also shows no evidence Pino swerved to avoid an oncoming boat.

READ MORE: ‘Radio silence’: Deadly boat crash witnesses say they weren’t interviewed by investigators

Despite the family’s frustration with the investigation, their main concern now is helping others avoid losing their loved ones in boating accidents, especially on a holiday weekend that sees even more vessels head out on the water.

“It is our hope that this collaboration with Miami-Dade County is part of our ongoing efforts to create meaningful change in Lucy’s memory. By flying this flag, we hope to remind boaters, operators and passengers of the importance of safety and accountability,” said Melissa Fernandez, 47. “While Labor Day weekend is a time for celebration, it’s also a time to honor those we’ve lost and work toward preventing future tragedies.”

The boating accident occurred around 6:30 p.m. Sunday of that 2022 Labor Day weekend.

The ceremony Friday was an emotional moment for the Dade Marine Patrol Unit, several of whom were among the first rescuers in Cutter Bank after the crash. Officers from the unit continuously performed CPR on Lucy as a boat raced to shore so she could be flown to the hospital.

READ MORE: Prosecutors didn’t talk to eyewitness before filing misdemeanor charges in deadly boat crash

“It’s a beautiful sentiment, thank you,” Lt. Michael Barrios, leader of the unit, told the Fernandezes as his men tethered the flags to their patrol boats.

Visibly moved, Andres Fernandez, 50, responded, “You guys are the true heroes.”

Since its inception, the Lucy Fernandez Foundation has held boater safety events throughout South Florida, most recently at Ocean Reef Club, a boating haven, this summer. The events stress responsible practices on the water and offer CPR classes.

“Fly High, Bird” flags are also given out. The pennants are a simultaneous reminder of Lucy’s love of the ocean and the importance of responsible boating.

“Our goal is to have these littered on every boat out there,” Andres Fernandez said.

For more information on the Lucy Fernandez Foundation and the “Fly High, Bird” flags, go to Lucyfernandezfoundation.org.

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Diver hit by propeller, 2 boats capsize during start of lobster mini-season in South Florida

Hundreds of boats hit the water before the sun came up for the start of the mini-season, which runs through thursday, by briana trujillo • published july 24, 2024 • updated on july 25, 2024 at 3:50 pm.

At least one diver was hurt, one diver found a package of "suspected cocaine" and two boats capsized in South Florida on Wednesday, the first day of lobster mini-season. 

Hundreds of boats hit the water, several even before the sun came up, for the start of the mini-season, which runs through Thursday.

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Miami-Dade County incidents

In Miami-Dade County, the first vessel capsized before 8 a.m. A diver was briefly reported missing before being found on another boat. 

The Hurricane season is on. Our meteorologists are ready. Sign up for the NBC 6 Weather newsletter to get the latest forecast in your inbox.

In another incident, authorities said two individuals were diving as their boat began to sink. Chopper6 caught an aerial view of the vessel upside down in the water.

The divers were picked up by Miami-Dade Police Department Marine Patrol, and they were brought to Crandon Park Marina. Neither was injured. 

In Sunny Isles, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue units responded to calls after noon about two missing divers.

"Our units were able to locate the divers and transported them back to their vessel," the fire rescue said.

Officials also said there was one small boat fire at Crandon marina, but no one was hurt. A tow company driver said they used a fire extinguisher and bucket of water to put it out.

What to know as Florida's 2024 lobster mini-season set to start

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Monroe county incidents.

In the Lower Keys, a man diving for lobster near the Boca Chica Bridge was reportedly struck by a boat propeller and flown to a Miami hospital at around 8:09 a.m., according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

The man’s condition is not known.

He "was brought ashore at the Key Haven Boat Ramp and Trauma Star landed on the Shark Key Bridge — temporarily blocking U.S. 1 traffic at the Shark Key Bridge," the sheriff's office said.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is investigating.

In another incident, the Sheriff's Office rescued four people from a vessel that was taking on water near Mile Marker 39 around 11:33 a.m. Wednesday, according to Monrow County Sheriff's Office.

Officials also said that a diver found a "package of suspected cocaine" approximately one mile offshore of Tavernier on the oceanside around 2:14 p.m.

The package was turned over to the U.S. Border Patrol, said MCSO.

Diving safety tips

According to the Divers Alert Network (DAN), a diving safety organization, "statistics have shown that lobster mini-season has resulted in unexpected injuries and fatalities as divers have rushed to hunt."

The organization highlights four steps to take to stay safe in the water:

• check air often
• always dive with a buddy
• know your limits
• plan your dive, and dive your plan

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) also encourages safety on its website and lists the following guidelines for divers:

• wear a life jacket when underway
• designate a sober operator for the vessel
• stay within 300 feet of a properly displayed divers-down flag or device when lobstering in open water
• stay within 100 feet of a properly displayed divers-down flag or device if near an inlet or navigation channel

As for boat operators, they must slow to idle speed when traveling within 300 feet of a divers-down flag or device in open water or within 100 feet of one on an inlet or navigational channel, the FWC says.

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