10 Best Small Pontoon Boats

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

Reading Time: 13 minutes

Last Updated on August 14, 2025 by Paul Clayton

10 Best Small Pontoon Boats

Key Takeaways

• • Versatile & Affordable: Small pontoon boats offer an affordable and versatile option for families or individuals, suitable for shallow waters and various activities like fishing, cruising, water skiing, and tubing.
  • Ease of Handling & Longevity: Due to their smaller size and lightweight construction, these boats are easy to operate, dock, tow, and store. They also boast a longer lifespan with lower maintenance costs, allowing for customization.
  • Top 10 Models Highlighted: The article introduces ten specific small pontoon boat models, including the Qwest Pontoon E-Class 816 Lanai, Lil’ Cruiser by Pond King, Avalon Venture 1675, Harris Cruiser LX-160, Lowe Ultra 160 Cruise, Crestliner 160 Sprint, Bennington Marine 188 SFV, Princecraft Jazz 17 (Vectra 17), Godfrey Mighty G Cruise/Fishing, and SUN TRACKER Bass Buggy 16 XL.
  • Common Features Across Models: Many models share key attributes such as spacious decks, comfortable plush seating (often L-shaped lounges), Bimini tops for shade, ample under-seat storage, rear swim platforms, and optional fishing stations (livewells, rod holders).
  • Engine & Capacity: Small pontoons typically have maximum horsepower ratings around 50 HP (though some go up to 75 HP) and can accommodate 5 to 8 people, with weight capacities generally ranging from 1,300 to 1,650 lbs.
  • Durable Construction & Warranty: Manufacturers often use marine-grade plywood decks, aluminum frames, and offer limited lifetime structural warranties (pontoons, decking, motor mounts) alongside 5 to 10-year warranties on materials and craftsmanship.
  • Manufacturer Reputation: Several featured manufacturers, like Avalon and Harris, have received consistent customer satisfaction awards, indicating a commitment to quality and service.

“You can’t buy happiness. But you can buy a boat, and that’s pretty much the same thing.” 

Unleash your adventurous spirit with the top 10 best small pontoon boats that are designed to perfection. From the versatile tri-toon, perfect for both leisure and fishing, to the compact yet powerful fishing toon, these small boats are built for those who crave excitement on the water.

The Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16, a compact pontoon boat, is perfect for anglers, while the Tahoe Sport Quad Lounge is ideal for a relaxing day out. The Avalon Venture Compact Cruise, another small ship, promises a comfortable ride with its plush seating.

Experience exhilarating speed with the Lowe Ultra 162 Fish & Cruise, or enjoy a quiet fishing trip on the Pond King Pro. For unmatched stability, try the Sea Eagle FoldCat or the classic Mini Pontoon.

Round out your options with the GillGetter 7515 Compact Fish N Cruise and Qwest Edge 7516 Sport, both renowned for their durability and performance.

Why don’t you think of becoming a captain of a small boat? A pontoon, maybe.

Yes, it’s affordable.

Buying a small pontoon boat would be a more reasonable option for those with a low budget and a small family.

Reasons Behind Buying a Small Pontoon Boat?

Nevertheless, a pontoon is a luxury item, and buying one shouldn’t be impulsive. It’s all about due diligence and a prudent buying decision to avoid ambiguity. Take a look at the benefits of small pontoon boats to initiate the buying process with no hesitation.

Suitable for Shallow Water

As the name suggests, pontoon boats are flat-bottomed watercraft that tend to float on the water’s top. They are known as shallow water vessels because they function smoothly in shallow water. In lakes, ponds, or rivers, the small pontoon boats will give you an experience like no other boat can.

Versatile and Easy to Handle

Have you ever heard that smaller vessels are difficult to handle?

Never! I believe.

Small pontoon boats are flexible enough to operate, dock, tow, and store due to their smaller size and light weight. They can be used to carry out many fun-filled activities, as well as daily routine tasks. This may include:

• Fishing
• Cruising
• Water skiing
• Tubing

Small pontoon boats are safe enough because they are usually made for beginners. And they are difficult to turn over due to the moderate speed.

Longer Lifespan

You might be worried about the lifespan of any luxury item you’re about to purchase.

Let me tell you that small pontoon boats tend to last for years. The low maintenance cost would urge you to spend a little more money on customization. You can place speakers, LED lights, and inflatable water accessories, if not provided in the standard pontoon.

Affordable Pricing

If you’ve made up your mind to be a captain of your boat this summer, you‘re prepared to invest, but hang on.

Sometimes, pricing becomes a showstopper before making any purchase.

As a beginner, I believe that buying a luxury item won’t disappoint you, given the price tag. The pleasure and mental peace are far-reaching, which you would get at the price.

10 Best Small & Mini Pontoon Boats – Let’s Get Started

This article will help you find the ten best small pontoon boats.

Since new models have come out, I’ve shortlisted the following boats for you.

• Qwest Pontoon E-Class XRE
• Lil’ Cruiser by Pond King
• Venture 1675 by Avalon
• Cruiser LX-160 by Harris
• Ultra 160 Cruise by Lowe
• 160 Sprint by Crestliner
• 188 SFV by Bennington
• Vectra 17 by Princecraft
• SR SW160F by Godfrey
• Bass Buggy 16 XL by SUN TRACKER

Before moving forward, it’s better to get familiar with a few different terms of a boat.

• Aft or Stern means the back part of a boat
• Bow means the front part of a boat
• Port means the left side of a boat
• Starboard means the right side of a boat

Let’s dig deeper into each boat.

1. Qwest Pontoon E-Class 816 Lanai

Manufacturer: Apex Marine Inc.

50 Years of Experience
The words’ proudly American-made” take on meaning as we continue to innovate at Apex Marine. The goal of Qwest, a division of Apex Marine, is to produce high-quality pontoon boats that outperform market expectations while providing the best possible boat for our customers. Our incredible contemporary designs are outfitted with state-of-the-art technology and created primarily to provide you with an unforgettable experience.

We are committed to delivering outstanding quality, featuring modern, multi-functional layouts, generous packages, and a diverse range of contemporary designs tailored for cruising, fishing, bar boats, and water sports. We constantly strive to create pontoons with the best quality and features in their respective classes. You can tell that a Qwest was created when you look at one.

• 8’ Wide Beam
• 1-1/4” Powder Coated Railings
• Custom 8’ x 9’ Forward Facing Bimini Top
• Motor Mount Fuel Tank (13 Gallon on 14’ – 16’ models / 25 Gallon on 18’ and larger)
• Rear Platform Extension with Stainless Steel Rear Entry Ladder
• Playpen Cover
• Lift and Lock Gates/Hinges
• Multi-Chambered Pontoons (23” Diam. on 14’ – 16’ models / 25” Diam. on 18’ and larger)
• Rich Upholstery w/Ultra-Flow Seat Base Ventilation
• Luxury Woven Vinyl Flooring
• Fiberglass Helm Stand
• Clarion CMM20 Bluetooth Stereo
• LED Courtesy Light on Helm Stand
• Dual USB Charger on Helm Stand
• Helm Dry Storage Tube
• On/Off Main Battery Shut Off

You would receive a limited lifetime warranty on decking, seat frames, framing cross channels, and pontoon tubes.  A 5-year warranty period is available on seat vinyl, vinyl flooring, and canvas.

2-Tube Specs

• Pontoon Length: 16′ 3
• Deck Size: 8′ X 16′
• Overall Length: 17′ 7″
• Pontoon Diameter: 23″
• Max Horsepower: 50 HP
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 13 gal
• Max Weight Capacity: 1,385 lbs
• Max Person Capacity: 7 people
• Max Person Weight: 960 lbs
• Approx. Dry Weight: 1,525 lbs

This small pontoon boat is helpful for both cruising and fishing. Either way, you would be boating your way to relaxation. Also, the various color combinations give you the right to choose what you consider best for you.

Are you ready to buy this small pontoon boat?

2. Lil’ Cruiser

Manufacturer: Pond King Inc.

Pond King Inc. began offering pond and lake management services, along with fish stocking, in 1995. The company then moved into manufacturing and designing mini and small pontoon boats for small ponds and lakes.

This will give you a lifetime experience in lakes and ponds. Look into some significant features of Lil’ Cruiser to enjoy it for years to come.

• The pontoon length is 16 6’’
• Two benches and one adjustable captain’s chair
• The maximum number of people is five
• A maximum weight capacity of 1,300 lbs is allowed
• Comes with a 91-square-foot deck and ample plush seating, along with a Bimini top
• Carpeted marine-grade plywood deck
• Available in 9.8 HP, 15 HP, or 25 HP Tohatsu outboard motor
• Extended rail with front and side gates

You may get this boat in different price ranges depending on the horsepower.  

The company offers a 10-year warranty on all its steel frames, aluminum frames, and welds. Also, you’ll have a 5-year warranty on the motor.

Most importantly, if you aren’t satisfied with your boat at the delivery time, the company will turn around. Simply return the boat to its largest retail outlet, and the company will refund your entire deposit.

Above all, Lil’ Cruiser is a cruising boat for your family at a reasonable cost. You may find it the best boat for sailing in small lakes and ponds.

To get your queries answered, the link below would be pretty helpful.

3. Avalon Venture 1675

Manufacturer: Avalon

What if I told you that Avalon won the Marine Industry Customer Satisfaction Index Award consecutively from 2008 to 2019?

Yes, it’s true.

Besides, the company’s incidence of warranty claims has been among the lowest in the industry.

Over forty years ago, Avalon entered the marine industry to manufacture a wide range of boats. The committed team aims to deliver a stress-free boating experience to you and your family.

Avalon’s mini pontoon boats come in various models and styles. But Venture 1675 can hit the market aggressively among small pontoon boats.

You would be eager to learn about its features. So, here they are:

• 17′ 5’’ overall boat length allows six travelers at a time
• Maximum engine power is 50 HP
• Overall weight should not exceed 1,350 lbs

• Chain adjustment slider (front, back, and rotate)
• Vinyl non-skid strips for entry gates
• Deck corner impact protection
• Tapered front deck with navigation lights
• Bimini Top and rare aluminum ladder

Avalon’s Venture 1675 comes in three variants under the same boat length. These variants have distinctive features in the bow and aft areas:

• Quad Fish – Having four fishing stations in the bow and aft area
• Rare Fish – Having two fishing stations in the aft area, while the mid area to the bow is for cruising and lounging
• Bow Fish – Having two fishing stations in the bow area. The aft contains a rear corner seating area and a rear-facing bench.

You can choose various colors and styles for exterior walls, vinyl, and flooring.

The company also offers a limited lifetime structural warranty. This may include Pontoons, crossbeams, wood decking, and motor mounts.

Overall, Venture 1675 is a well-equipped pontoon boat that would accommodate your budget. It’s one of the best pontoon boats for fishing enthusiasts due to its sleek interior design and convenient fishing features.

4. Cruiser LX-160

Manufacturer: Harris

Harris is the name of elegance in the US boating industry. For more than 60 years, it has been serving its customers with lavish comfort and sophisticated style.

The company doesn’t compromise in designing the boats, and it offers state-of-the-art onboard technology. Like Avalon, it has also been recognized with the Customer Satisfaction Index Award for 16 consecutive years.

Harris offers you this small pontoon boat in two variants at different prices:

• Cruiser LX-160 Fish
• Cruiser LX-160 Cruise

Let’s understand what features each variant of Cruiser LX-160 offers:

• Overall boat length is 17’ 10’’
• The maximum overall weight capacity is 1,652 lbs
• A maximum of eight travelers is allowed
• Maximum horsepower is 50
• Aft L-shaped vinyl seating
• Ample lounge seating with under-seat storage
• Dual bow fishing positions with storage compartment and Livewell (Fish)
• Rod storage (Fish)
• Port and Starboard bow lounge benches (Cruise)

You’ll have a chance to choose from limited color options.

The company is pleased to offer you a limited lifetime warranty for the entire structure. This may include pontoon tubes, decking, motor mount, and fence rail. In addition, all materials and artistry are covered under a 10-year warranty.

This small pontoon boat would manage to make most of your time out on the water. Whether it’s cruising around the lake or catching a fish of the day, this boat will make your day memorable.

5. Ultra 160 Cruise

Manufacturer: Lowe

Lowe no longer builds their 160, but you can find a good used one.

Lowe has been designing a wide range of boats since 1971. It has created generations of family memories through great water experiences.

Lowe’s Ultra 160 Cruise is a pontoon boat for family cruising. Its features are similar to those of other small pontoon boats.

• Overall boat length is 17’ 10’’
• Maximum eight individuals at a time
• Maximum overall weight capacity is 1,659 lbs
• Aft bench seat with convenient storage underneath and cupholders
• Port and starboard bow lounge benches
• Maximum engine power is 50 HP
• Fold-down helm and passenger seat
• Heavy-duty 9’ Bimini top with quick disconnects
• Plywood flooring

This small pontoon boat comes in three ELPT options at affordable prices. These include:

• 9.9 ELPT Command Thrust Pro Kicker Four Stroke
• 25 ELPT Four Stroke
• 40 ELPT Command Thrust FourStroke

Lowe’s Ultra 160 Cruise offers long-lasting durability, spacious seating, and thoughtful amenities at a reasonable price.

Additionally, a limited range of color combinations is available for both exteriors and interiors.

Pontoon logs, decking, motor pods, fences, and gate rails are covered in warranty for the boat’s life.

If you need any further clarification, you can visit the website and chat with representatives from your nearby dealers.

6. Crestliner 160 Sprint

Manufacturer: Crestliner

Having more than 70 years of excellence, Crestliner is recognized as the world’s most durable aluminum boat manufacturer.

Crestliner’s 160 Sprint is an entry-level pontoon boat. When it comes to an outing, it serves two primary purposes: cruising and fishing.

Therefore, it comes in two choices for pontoon boat lovers.

• Cruise
• Fish and Cruise

To explore each variant, you need to skim through some leading features.

• Overall boat length is 17’ 10’’
• 1,659 lbs is the maximum weight capacity (Cruise)
• 1,640 lbs is the maximum weight capacity (Fish and Cruise)
• A maximum of 8 individuals is allowed
• Maximum HP range is 75
• 9’ black Bimini top with quick connectors
• Comfortable passenger seat with helm seat
• Available in three fencing colors (black metallic, maroon red, and slate blue)
• Three entry gates (rear, bow, and portside)
• Stern lounge bench with storage beneath
• Coverage of a limited lifetime warranty
• Bow port and starboard lounge with storage and drink holders (Cruise variant)
• Two bow fishing chairs with a storage area (Fish and Cruise)

You can keep a lot of belongings easily due to the sufficient space and storage capacity. The company offers seven engines to choose from. The price of the pontoon varies according to the engine.

Crestliner’s 160 Sprint would give you better speed and a stable cruising experience. The company allows you to enjoy other options, such as four vertical rod holders, tilt steering, a removable table, a ski tow bar, and docking LED lights. 

To know more about it or purchase this model, you can visit the manufacturer’s website

7. Bennington Marine 188 SFV

Manufacturer: Bennington Marine

Bennington Marine was founded in 1997 by a small group of veterans. The company has raised its standard by innovation in design and customer satisfaction.

Bennington’s 188 SFV is a small pontoon boat equipped with bass seats, rear fishing stations, rod holders, and other fishing amenities.

Its significant features are as follows:

• The pontoon boat has an overall length of 18’ 9.5 ‘’
• Three foldable fishing seats
• Comfortable captain’s chair
• Port-bow Livewell with two cup holders
• Corner starboard Aft deck
• Seven-person seating capacity
• Maximum engine power is 60 HP
• Starboard Bow storage compartment with a rod holder and cup holder
• Marideck flooring

You may be eligible for a limited lifetime structural warranty on the structure, gates, motor mount, and other components.

Moreover, the company offers you a 10-year warranty on materials and crafts.

Bennington’s 188 SFV is a fishing pontoon boat featuring L-bench midship and dual bass seats upfront.

Whether you are looking for a family-friendly boat for full-time fishing or an occasional fishing outing, this pontoon boat would suit you. And its powerful engine would maintain the pace on the water. 

8. Jazz 17

Manufacturer: Princecraft

In 2014, Princecraft celebrated its 60th anniversary in the boating industry. Its pontoon boats are widely accepted among families and fishermen due to their wide range and design.

Vectra 17 is a small pontoon boat for enjoying a cruising experience on the water. Let’s take a look at its main features.

• Overall boat length is 17’ 8’’
• Maximum weight capacity is 1,409 lbs
• It can accommodate seven persons
• Engine power ranging from 9.9 to 50 HP
• Storage compartment under all lounges
• Rod storage compartment and portside gate
• Marine-grade carpeted wood deck
• Rear swim platform and Bimini top
• Walk through the rear gate and the bow gate
• Plush and heavyweight upholstery
• Limited lifetime warranty and 10-year structural warranty coverage

This small pontoon boat offers a wide choice of seating options for your family. Also, the price would be different based on the engine’s horsepower that you would choose.

Enough storage capacity and the comfort of cruising would give you an unforgettable experience. With this pontoon boat, it’s time to gather your family for an outing on the water.

9. Godfrey Models

Manufacturer: Godfrey

Godfrey has been manufacturing boats to bring you and your family closer for the past 60 years. The pontoon boats are designed to make the most of your time while you are on the water.

Godfrey’s has several boat brands to choose from. Mighty G Cruise is one of the best small pontoon boats for cruising fanatics with sufficient seating capacity. Its essential features would make you understand more about this boat. The fishing model “Mighty G Fishing” is also very popular for you fishing fanatics. 

• Overall boat length is 15′
• The maximum engine power is 50 HP
• Eight passengers at a time
• Overall weight capacity is 1,558 lbs
• Dual bow fish seats with storage compartments and rod holders
• A spare fish seat in the stern
• L-shaped lounge with storage underneath
• Backrest and armrest helm seat
• Walk through the rear gate and the bow gate
• Portside gate and Bimini top

The company is committed to providing a limited lifetime structural warranty on pontoon tubes, decking, and other components. Besides, a 10-year warranty is also available for flooring, furniture, upholstery, gauges, and electronics.

This small pontoon boat navigates smoothly on the water. Also, you’ll enjoy fishing comfort with plush, 360-degree rotating, and height-adjusting seats.

If you want to book a virtual tour and get a price quote, click the link below.

10. Bass Buggy 16 XL

Manufacturer: SUN TRACKER

Bass Buggy 16 DLX, the last small pontoon boat, stands out in offering quality and comfort on the water.

Its manufacturer is SUN TRACKER, which has been in the boating industry for more than 35 years. The company aims to build long-term memories on the water with family and friends. It has more than 130 nationwide dealers, including shops and centers.

Let’s take a look at some key features of this small pontoon boat.

• 16’ overall length of the  boat provides bow space for water-related activities
• The capacity of seven persons; the maximum person’s weight is 1,150 lbs
• Two Bow fishing positions with fold-down fishing chairs
• L-shaped lounge with under-seat storage
• Port wheel-chair access gate and under-deck ladder
• Erosion-resistant wire wrap and water-resistant connectors
• Smooth and peaceful ride due to a soundproof and vibration-free engine
• Electric Start-Long Shaft-Power Trim (ELPT) motor engine
• The maximum recommended HP is 40

This small and comfortable pontoon boat is available at an affordable price range in two colors, black metallic or indigo blue.

You can find its four variants in terms of the motor engine, but at different price ranges.

• 20 ELPT Fourstroke
• 25 ELPT Fourstroke
• 40 ELPT Fourstroke Command Thrust
• 9.9 ELPT FourStroke Command Thrust ProKicker

You can also enjoy a lifetime warranty for pontoon logs, the motor pod, and deck supports. However, workmanship is covered for ten years, including plumbing, vinyl, furniture, and electrical components, among others. 

I wouldn’t be wrong if I called this boat a Fishing Pontoon, given its good speed and stable ride.

Final Thoughts

Small pontoon boats provide an accessible and enjoyable entry point into boating, perfectly balancing affordability, ease of use, and versatility for a range of water activities. With numerous reputable manufacturers offering durable, well-designed models equipped with essential amenities and strong warranties, there’s a small pontoon to suit nearly every budget and family need.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxed day on the lake, a dedicated fishing platform, or a nimble vessel for watersports, these compact pontoons promise years of memorable adventures on the water.

Home page
Back to the top of the page