Pontoon Boat Speed Calculator

Pontoon boat speeds vary with engine power. Smaller 9.9 hp engines can achieve 8-12 mph, while 150 hp motors can reach 30-40 mph. Factors like boat size and weight affect speed. Always check manufacturer specifications for precise speed information.

Pontoon Boat Speed Calculator

Pontoon Boat Speed Calculator





Engine HorsepowerPontoon Boat Speed (Estimate)
9.9 hp8-12 mph (13-19 km/h)
50 hp15-20 mph (24-32 km/h)
60 hp18-22 mph (29-35 km/h)
70 hp20-25 mph (32-40 km/h)
90 hp20-25 mph (32-40 km/h)
115 hp25-30 mph (40-48 km/h)
150 hp30-40 mph (48-64 km/h)
170 hp35-45 mph (56-72 km/h)
230 hp50-60 mph (80-97 km/h)

FAQs

  • How fast can you go on a pontoon boat?
    • Pontoon boats typically have a top speed of 15 to 30 mph (24 to 48 km/h) depending on factors like boat size, engine power, and load.
  • How fast does a 50 hp pontoon boat go?
    • A 50 hp pontoon boat may reach a top speed of around 15-20 mph (24-32 km/h).
  • How fast will a 20-foot pontoon boat go with a 90hp motor?
    • A 20-foot pontoon boat with a 90hp motor can reach speeds of approximately 25-30 mph (40-48 km/h).
  • How fast is a 150hp pontoon boat?
    • A pontoon boat with a 150hp engine can go at speeds between 30-40 mph (48-64 km/h), depending on boat size and other factors.
  • How fast does a 90 hp pontoon boat go?
    • A 90 hp pontoon boat can typically reach speeds of around 20-25 mph (32-40 km/h).
  • How fast will a 9.9 hp pontoon boat go?
    • A 9.9 hp pontoon boat may achieve speeds of approximately 8-12 mph (13-19 km/h).
  • Is 150 hp enough for a pontoon boat?
    • Yes, 150 hp is generally considered sufficient for most pontoon boats, providing good speed and performance. However, the suitability of the engine depends on the boat’s size and intended use.
  • How seaworthy are pontoon boats?
    • Pontoon boats are suitable for calm inland waters, such as lakes and rivers. They are less seaworthy in rough open waters and are not designed for offshore or heavy seas.
  • Why are pontoons slow?
    • Pontoon boats tend to be slower because their design prioritizes stability and comfort over speed. The flat, wide hull creates more water resistance, limiting top speed.
  • Will a 90 hp pontoon pull a skier?
    • Yes, a 90 hp pontoon boat is capable of pulling a water skier, but the speed and ease of towing will depend on factors like the skier’s weight and skill level.
  • Is 50 hp enough for a pontoon?
    • A 50 hp engine can be sufficient for smaller pontoon boats and leisurely cruising, but it may not provide the power needed for faster speeds or towing activities.
  • Can a 115 hp pontoon pull a wakeboard?
    • Yes, a 115 hp pontoon boat should have enough power to pull a wakeboarder.
  • Can a 115 hp pontoon pull a skier?
    • Yes, a 115 hp pontoon boat is typically capable of pulling a water skier.
  • Can a 150 hp pontoon pull a tube?
    • Yes, a 150 hp pontoon boat is well-suited for pulling an inflatable tube with riders.
  • How can I make my pontoon boat faster?
    • To increase speed, you can consider upgrading to a more powerful engine, reducing weight on the boat, and ensuring proper maintenance.
  • How fast is a pontoon with 115 top speed?
    • A pontoon boat with a 115 hp engine may reach a top speed of approximately 25-30 mph (40-48 km/h).
  • Are pontoon boats efficient?
    • Pontoon boats are generally fuel-efficient compared to some other boat types, thanks to their slower cruising speeds and efficient hull design.
  • How much HP does a pontoon boat need?
    • The horsepower needed for a pontoon boat depends on its size, weight, and intended use. For most recreational pontoon boats, engines in the range of 50 to 150 hp are common.
  • How fast is 170hp on a boat?
    • A boat with a 170hp engine may reach speeds of 40-50 mph (64-80 km/h), depending on the boat’s design and size.
  • How fast is a 230hp boat?
    • A boat with a 230hp engine can have a top speed of 50-60 mph (80-97 km/h) or more, depending on the boat’s type and size.
  • What is the most common size pontoon boat?
    • The most common size for pontoon boats is in the 20 to 24-foot range.
  • Does pontoon size matter?
    • Yes, the size of a pontoon boat matters as it affects its capacity, stability, and performance. Larger pontoons generally have more space and can handle rougher waters better.
  • Do pontoons sink a lot?
    • Pontoon boats are designed to be buoyant and stay afloat. They are not prone to sinking under normal conditions.
  • What are the disadvantages of a pontoon boat?
    • Disadvantages of pontoon boats include limited speed, reduced maneuverability compared to some other boat types, and a less adventurous design for rough waters.
  • What not to do on a pontoon boat?
    • Avoid overloading the boat, drinking and boating, ignoring safety equipment, and driving recklessly on a pontoon boat.
  • Are pontoons hard to flip?
    • Pontoons are stable and not prone to flipping under typical conditions. However, extreme forces or poor handling can lead to instability.
  • Are pontoons easy?
    • Pontoon boats are generally easy to operate, making them a popular choice for beginners and leisurely boating.
  • Why is the steering hard on a pontoon boat?
    • Steering on a pontoon boat can feel harder due to the boat’s size and flat-bottomed hull, which creates more water resistance.
  • Do pontoons flip over?
    • Pontoons are stable and unlikely to flip over under normal conditions. However, care should be taken in adverse conditions or during extreme maneuvers.
  • Are pontoons full of air?
    • Pontoons are typically filled with air or foam to provide buoyancy and support. The tubes or chambers are airtight to maintain the boat’s flotation.
  • Do pontoon boats last?
    • Pontoon boats can last for many years with proper maintenance. The lifespan depends on factors like construction quality and care.
  • Can you surf behind a pontoon boat?
    • Surfing behind a pontoon boat is possible, but it requires specific equipment like a surf gate or wake shaper to create a surfable wake.
  • Can a pontoon boat go on a lift?
    • Yes, pontoon boats can be stored on boat lifts when not in use to protect them from water exposure and hull fouling.
  • How fast is a 70hp pontoon?
    • A 70 hp pontoon boat may reach speeds of around 20-25 mph (32-40 km/h).
  • How shallow can a pontoon boat run?
    • Pontoon boats have a shallow draft and can operate in water as shallow as 1 to 2 feet (0.3 to 0.6 meters) depending on their design.
  • How deep can a pontoon boat go?
    • Pontoon boats are not designed for deep-water operation and are typically used in shallow to moderately deep waters.
  • What is the average beam of a pontoon boat?
    • The average beam (width) of a pontoon boat ranges from 8 to 10 feet (2.4 to 3 meters).
  • What is the difference between a pontoon and a Tritoon?
    • A Tritoon, also known as a triple-tube pontoon boat, has three pontoons instead of two, providing increased buoyancy, stability, and often higher top speeds.
  • Will a 75 hp motor pull a skier?
    • A 75 hp motor may have enough power to pull a water skier, but it will depend on factors like the boat’s size and design.
  • Do pontoons have a weight limit?
    • Pontoon boats have weight limits specified by the manufacturer, and exceeding these limits can affect stability and performance.
  • Will a 90 hp pull a skier?
    • A 90 hp pontoon boat should have sufficient power to pull a water skier.
  • Can a 90 hp jet ski pull a tube?
    • A 90 hp jet ski should be capable of pulling an inflatable tube with riders.
  • Is 55 lb thrust enough for a pontoon?
    • A 55 lb thrust trolling motor is typically sufficient for a pontoon boat for slow-speed maneuvering, fishing, and trolling.
  • Can you tube behind a 50 hp pontoon boat?
    • Tubing behind a 50 hp pontoon boat is possible, but it may not provide high-speed thrills compared to more powerful boats.
  • Can you tube behind a 60 hp pontoon?
    • Tubing behind a 60 hp pontoon boat is feasible and can provide enjoyable tubing experiences.
  • How fast should you pull a tuber?
    • Tubers are typically pulled at speeds ranging from 15 to 25 mph (24 to 40 km/h), depending on the rider’s preference and comfort level.
  • Are 3 pontoons better than 2?
    • Three pontoons (Tritoons) offer greater stability and often higher top speeds than two pontoons, making them preferable for certain uses.
  • Does a pontoon boat need a whale tail?
    • A whale tail or hydrofoil may help improve the handling and performance of some pontoon boats by reducing drag, but it’s not always necessary.
  • What is the best cruising speed for a boat?
    • The best cruising speed for a boat depends on its design and purpose. Generally, a comfortable cruising speed for many boats is around 20-30 mph (32-48 km/h).
  • What is a good speed for a pontoon boat?
    • A good cruising speed for a pontoon boat is typically in the range of 15-25 mph (24-40 km/h) for leisurely cruising.
  • What is the fastest a boat can go?
    • The fastest boats, such as high-performance racing boats, can reach speeds exceeding 200 mph (322 km/h). However, typical recreational boats have lower top speeds.

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