Now that summer is almost upon us, we are all thinking of fun ways to spend sunny days relaxing with friends.
One of the most popular activities for summer is to take a pontoon boat on a nearby lake, river or dam and spend a few hours just chilling out.
If you have a pontoon boat, why not make the experience that much exciting, comfortable and interesting with some great accessories?
Here are our recommendations for the most popular pontoon boat accessories for this year!
1. Shade and Privacy Enclosure.
If you have ever been on a pontoon boat on a hot summer’s day, you will know that things can get quite sweltering.
Investing in a shade and privacy enclosure (that can be taken off whenever you need it and when the sun goes down) gives you some much-needed shade during a heatwave and can prevent sunburn.
In addition to being a nice protective measure against the sun, an enclosure can give you the privacy you need on your pontoon boat. After all, no one enjoys the general public gawking at them from the shore as your pontoon boat sails past.
Don’t give them anything to see and fit your soft enclosure around 3 corners of your pontoon boat.
2. Plastic, Clip-On Cup Holders.
One of the most important accessories for any pontoon boat is a set of cup holders. We recommend having at least 6 to 8 cup holders so that all your boat occupants have somewhere to put their drinks.
This can avoid unnecessary spills and having to struggle to find a place to set your drink down.
Most cup holders for pontoon boats come in a variety of models: from dual cup holders to single, clip-on ones that are inexpensive and great quality.
They also come in a wide range of colors to suit your pontoon boat’s theme and style.
3. Fairy Lights.
No pontoon boat is complete without a set of pretty fairy lights when the sun starts to go down.
Fairy lights can make your pontoon boat look like the best place to be on an given night and create an atmosphere of romance and festivity.
There are so many different kinds of fairy lights available on the market and you are definitely spoiled for choice. However, opt for a set that is waterproof and is long enough to cover all the railings and sides of your pontoon boat.
4. Inflatable Boat Slide for Pontoons.
Sitting back and relaxing on a pontoon boat is an amazing experience for adults, but kids can soon get bored of sitting around the whole day and doing nothing.
If you plan on taking your kids on your pontoon boat, be sure to provide them with enough entertainment. One of the most popular pontoon boat accessories for kids is an inflatable boat slide, which can be secured against the side of your boat.
When your boat is moving slowly or is stationary, the young ones in your group can have fun sliding off the boat and into the water. Not only does this give kids endless hours of fun, but it also helps them to cool off effectively.
Of course, an inflatable slide is not strictly for kids and if you think you would enjoy using it, go for it!
5. LED lighting kit.
Fairy lights are pretty, romantic and festive, but a decent LED lighting kit can really take your pontoon boat to the next level!
LED lighting kits make setting up lights on your pontoon boat extremely easy and they contain everything you need to make your boat stand out and look amazing.
Before making a purchase, think about the color lights you want for your pontoon boat: do you want something subtle with a constant light, or would you prefer flashing lights in many different colors?
Once installed, your LED lighting kit can make your pontoon boat feel like a disco on the water and you will want to host many a party on it during the summer months!
Just be sure to check if the LED lighting kit is completely waterproof as you don’t want any nasty surprises.
6. Bucket Seat for the Captain.
If you’ve been tasked with the responsibility of driving the pontoon boat, do it in style!
A comfortable, luxurious-feeling bucket seat is just the ticket for the captain of the boat and there is a lot to choose from.
Once you have tested a bucket seat for your pontoon boat, you won’t want to go back to your previous hard and uncomfortable seat.
We recommend pairing your new bucket seat with a seat cover for when it’s not in use (which brings us to the next point)…
7. Seat Covers.
Don’t invest money in comfortable seating for your pontoon boat without making sure that you have some waterproof seat covers for them.
Seat covers can protect your seats from getting wet and also from the elements, such as the sun and wind. You would be amazed at the damage the sun, rain and snow can cause to your seats and, instead of replacing them every other year, rather just get some seat covers!
8. Diving Board.
Believe it or not, there are diving boards that can be attached to the side of a pontoon boat so that its occupants can dive into the water!
Diving boards can turn an otherwise boring day on the pontoon boat into something quite extraordinary!
All you need to do is attach it to the side of your pontoon boat (preferably securely to one of the railings) and you are ready for action.
This is a great accessory if you have kids on board who need entertainment while you relax.
9. Vinyl Stickers and Decals.
No one likes a boring pontoon boat. Make your pontoon boat stand out with some awesome vinyl stickers and decals.
There are actually some stunningly beautiful vinyl stickers and decals available on the market specifically for pontoon boats.
Before making a purchase, it is a good idea to think about what look you are going for and take it from there. It is easy to get carried away and buy a whole bunch of decals that don’t really match.
10. Floating Water Mat.
Although they look quite flimsy, floating mats can actually hold many people and a large weight.
Floating water mats are perfect for when you want to get closer to the water but not get submerged. They can be rolled up when not in use and then unraveled and simply thrown onto the water then you feel like lying back and floating peacefully on the lake.
11. Livewell and Cooler Seat.
Planning on doing a bit of fishing on your pontoon boat? Or maybe you just want a good quality cooler that also doubles up as a seat?
Why not think about buying a livewell and cooler seat? It is guaranteed to keep your fish fresh and your drinks even fresher- all you need from a cooler box, really!
12. Clip-On Bottle Holder.
While cup holders are essential for any pontoon boat, a few clip-on bottle holders can also come in handy.
Sometimes, you feel like cracking open a cold beer or soda and not using a glass. In such cases, a bottle holder could mean the difference between your drink falling off the table and remaining securely in place for you to drink from.
We recommend getting at least 2 to 4 clip-on bottle holders so that you and your guests can drink in comfort and style.
13. Inflatable Tube.
Want to take your pontoon boating experience to the next level? Why not consider buying an inflatable tube which can be attached to the end of your pontoon boat?
All you need to do is fasten it on to the boat, get in and have some fun on the water. Obviously, you will get wet and some stage so make sure you won’t have a problem with this!
14. Inflatable Kayak.
Another excellent option for a pontoon boat is an inflatable kayak.
These are great if you feel like doing a bit of light rowing and getting farther afield from your pontoon boat.
Inflatable kayaks can be stored compactly (when not in use) on your pontoon boat and all you need to do on the day is inflate it and you are good go.
Most inflatable kayaks can seat 2 to 4 people and are very convenient if you quickly want to reach the shore while on your pontoon boat.
15. Fishing Rod Holders.
There can be nothing more irritating than not knowing what to do with your fishing rods while floating down the river in your pontoon boat.
Instead of allowing them to get in everybody’s way, get a pair of fishing rod holders that you can attach to your boat railings.
These are perfect for protecting your fishing rods, as well as saving you space on your pontoon boat.
17. Mounted Flag.
Are you proud to support a specific baseball or football team? Show your appreciation for them while you are floating on the water in your pontoon boat by displaying their flag!
Alternatively, if you are just simply a patriotic person, you could mount the American flag to your pontoon boat.
18. Pontoon Boat Fender and Bumper.
One of the most heartbreaking moments of owning a pontoon boat is when someone scratches it or (horror of all horrors) bumps into it!
This can all be avoided with some stylish fenders or bumpers, which come in a range of attractive colors and styles.
19. Pontoon Boat Grill.
You cannot own a pontoon boat without having at least one barbecue on it.
We understand that barbecues can mean a lot of work, especially if you consider all the elements needed. If you want to make life easier for yourself, a portable grill for your pontoon boat is just perfect.
It can be securely fastened to your rails so that it doesn’t take up too much real estate on the boat and gives you plenty of space around it to grill your meats to perfection.
When you have finished using it, simply detach it from the rails, clean it and store it away. It’s as simple as that!
Pontoon boat grills come in various sizes so be sure to pick one that suits the amount of food your plan on grilling.
20. Smoker Box.
When most people think of summer, they think of barbecues and, of course, delicious smoked meats.
Don’t let your summer pass by without smoking some succulent meat at least a few times on your pontoon boat. There are many smoker boxes specifically designed for boats and these can be attached to your pontoon boat railings for ease of use.
21. Emergency Flashlight.
Emergency flashlights have very powerful beams and can come in handy when you are trying to dock your pontoon boat in the dark after a fun day on the water.
Most modern emergency flashlights contain rechargeable batteries and, as long as you have a battery recharger, you will always have a reliable source of light during the evenings.
22. Pontoon Boat Speakers.
Going to be hosting a party on your pontoon boat this summer? Don’t compromise on a rubbish sound system- rather spend a little money and invest in a decent sound system that plays great quality music.
Pontoon Boat speakers can be installed in key places around your boat and can provide great sound to everyone, no matter where they are sitting.
23. Portable, Waterproof and Bluetooth Speakers.
If the thought of installing a speaker sound system on your pontoon boat seems like far too much work for you, why not buy some portable, waterproof bluetooth speakers?
These are actually more affordable than you think and you only need one to have a decent source of sound on your pontoon boat.
A great benefit to portable, waterproof bluetooth speakers is that they are waterproof and won’t get damaged when accidentally splashed. They can also be easily carried around your boat for an impromptu party at any time fo the day.
24. Replacement Batteries.
Many accessories on a pontoon boat require batteries and it can be incredibly frustrating when you discover that you have no fresh batteries.
We recommend always making sure that you have many fresh batteries on board so that you never get caught unawares.
You may also want to consider investing in some rechargeable batteries and a battery recharger, just to be on the safe side.
25. Tarpaulin.
A tarpaulin is a very versatile accessory and can be thrown over any part of your pontoon boat that you feel needs protection.
When in use, if you feel like taking a nap and need a bit of shade, you can simply throw your tarpaulin over a section of the railings and create some much-needed shade.
During the winter months, your pontoon boat will need protection against the rain, snow and other elements. If you have a strong, durable and good quality tarpaulin, your pontoon boat will be well-protected and ready for use when the weather warms up again.
Just be sure to secure it down with a lot of strong rope and ensure that no place is unprotected.
26. Pontoon Boat Cooler.
There can be nothing worse than a lukewarm drink on a hot day! This is the curse of many a partygoer on a pontoon boat.
When not a lot of planning has gone into how the drinks will be kept ice cold, this can spell disaster!
Sadly, all that is needed to avoid lukewarm drinks is a good quality and well-insulated cooler box (and a lot of ice).
Don’t risk having warm drinks on board your pontoon boat and invest in a great cooler box (the bigger, the better) as it will definitely serve you well!
In addition to keeping drinks nice and cold, a good cooler can also keep any perishable foods cool and prevent them from spoiling.
It is a must-have accessory on a pontoon boat and can help you to enjoy the experience that much more!
27. Key Floats.
Keys are by their very nature dense and will sink right to the bottom of the river or lake bed if dropped.
When this happens, it is almost impossible to retrieve them again and you end up having to call out a locksmith to gain access to your home or car. Not nice at all!
Every pontoon boat owner should have a set of key floats that ensure your keys will remain floating on top of the water if accidentally dropped. You never know when they will save your backside!
28. Pop-Up Changing Room.
Planning on spending the day out on the water with a bunch of friends on your pontoon boat?
Great! You’re going to have a wonderful time but have you considered where everyone will change into their swimsuits?
Of course, you could have someone holding up a few towels to give everyone a bit of privacy while changing but this can get tedious and there is a better way to do this.
A pop-up changing room is portable and can be folded away when not in use. It’s also not that expensive and can help maintain your guests’ dignity as they get changed on the boat!
29. Boarding Ladder.
An often overlooked accessory on a pontoon boat is the boarding ladder.
While you may be fit, healthy and quite able to climb aboard your pontoon boat without the help of a ladder, some people simply won’t be able to get onto the boat without additional help.
Make life easier for guests on your pontoon boat with a boarding ladder. This gives them easy access on board and some boarding ladders even come with side railings to help prevent guests falling in to the water.
30. Cell Phone Case for Pontoon Boats.
One of the most common accidents when on a pontoon boat is when someone accidentally drops their cellphone and it falls into the water. This can spoil the entire day because, as everyone knows, cellphones don’t come cheap.
Rather avoid this kind of scenarios and get yourself a nifty cell phone case with a lanyard. Make sure that your case is waterproof so that if it does end up in the water, all will not be lost.
This also helps you not to lose your cellphone, especially when you have had one too many lemonades.
31. A Good Quality Anchor.
Owning a pontoon boat involves having a decent anchor for every situation.
For instance, if you want to dock at the beach, you will need an anchor that is best situated for this purpose.
The same can be said if you need to anchor in the middle of the lake where the water is deeper.
Don’t let yourself be caught off guard and make sure that you have a good quality anchor before heading out!
32. First Aid Kit.
A first aid kit is not the most exciting accessory, but it is definitely very important for any responsible pontoon boat owner.
You don’t have to have a high-tech first aid kit- just something that contains all the essentials should someone accidentally cut themselves or get bitten by an insect.
Look for a reputable first aid kit online and make sure that it has all the most crucial items (ie. several band aids, some bandages, antiseptic cream, etc). Of course, you could always add in some items to make it more complete.
If you don’t feel like spending money on a first aid kit, you could always make your own by grabbing a watertight, plastic container and filling it with some first aid essentials.
Your first aid kit should be stored safely in a cool, dry place on board your pontoon boat.
33. Non-slide mat.
After spending a few hours on your pontoon boat, it will inevitably get a little wet on the floor, creating a bit of a hazard for your guests when they walk around.
Instead of having them slip and slide all over the place, invest in a few non-slide pontoon boat mats that can be put in high-traffic areas. This will avoid bruises and nasty falls and keep everyone happy!
34. Towel Clips.
Towels are some of the most common items on a pontoon boat.
It can be quite irritating when there is a sudden gust of wind and your towels decide to have a life of their own. Prevent them from flying all over the place and get a few stainless steel towel grips which can be placed on beach chairs or on the railings of your pontoon boat.
An added advantage of towel clips is that they help wet towels to dry quicker.
35. Doggy Boarding Ladder.
Planning on taking your furry friend with you on your pontoon boat? Great idea because most dogs love the feeling of being on a boat and spending quality time with their owners.
The only downside to this is that it is very difficult (if not impossible) for most dogs to climb onto a pontoon boat.
Instead of having to carry your pooch onto the boat every time, why not just get an aluminum doggy ladder? These are actually very strong, durable and will support the weight of even the heaviest dog.
36. Dog Platform for Pontoon Boats.
Once on the pontoon boat, your dog will most likely spend a bit of time sniffing around and exploring.
When they are done with all the investigation, it may be time for a nap, which could be a problem as there are very few places on a pontoon boat where dogs find it comfortable enough to sleep.
A steel pet platform is the answer to this problem. It is easily attached to anywhere on your pontoon boat and will provide your dog with a very comfortable sleeping place for an afternoon nap or two!
37 . Boat Cover.
The final and possibly the saddest pontoon boat accessory is the boat cover.
Every pontoon boat adventure will eventually come to an end and, when this happens, you need to protect your pontoon boat so that you can enjoy even more happy days on the water!
When it comes to a boat cover for your pontoon, don’t compromise. Buy one that is guaranteed to protect it against the elements so that your pontoon boat will serve you well for many years to come.
Conclusion
As you can see from the above, there are countless accessories that can be used to make relaxing on your pontoon boat an incredibly comfortable and entertaining experience.
The good news is that most of the above accessories are not expensive at all and are available at most boating stores and even in the biggest online stores.
We recommend buying your pontoon boat accessories before the season starts so that you can get the most enjoyment out of them.
