You can expect most pontoon boat weights to be around 2,500 pounds (1,134 kg). Most pontoon boat trailers weigh about 1,200 pounds (544 kg).
The average boat weight with trailer is approximately 3,700 pounds (1,678 kg).
Fuel also weighs about 6.3 pounds (2.9 kg) per gallon of gas. It's recommended to add the weight of a full tank to your total boat weight for safe towing. Most boats feature about a 30 gallon gas tank, which adds up to 185 pounds (84 kg).
For pulling pontoon boats, it's recommended to use a vehicle with approximately 2,500 pounds of towing ability above the given load. A truck that has a tow rating of at least 5,500 pounds should be adequate for towing a pontoon boat.
Know your towing capacity, this number will be labeled as the (GVWR) or gross vehicle weight rating. If your manual has been misplaced, most manufactures have the information readily available on their websites.
When looking for pontoon boats, they're listed as dry weight and package weight. Dry weight refers to just the boat itself before it's loaded with gear and fuel. Package weight includes the weight of the trailer, motor, batteries, and weight on the water.
7 Example Pontoon Boat Weights:
The following chart features pontoon boat weights ranging from the lightest to heaviest models most used out on the water. Additional boat details can be found on the manufacture's websites. Here's the pontoon boat weight chart:
Pontoon Boat Model | Average Dry Weight | Average Package Weight |
|---|---|---|
Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 DLX ET | 1,235 pounds | 1,925 pounds |
Lowe SS210 | 1,680 pounds | N/A |
Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX | 1,695 pounds | 3,358 pounds |
Sun Tracker Fishin' Barge 24 DLX | 2,095 pounds | 4,172 pounds |
Tahoe Pontoon GT Cruise - 23' | 2,150 pounds | N/A |
Sun Tracker SportFish 22 XP3 | 3,250 pounds | 5,246 pounds |
Regency 230 LE3 Sport | 3,375 pounds | 5,845 pounds |
Additional Weight To Consider
In combination with your boat, trailer, gas, and motor, it's also important to consider the weight of your gear.
With all the under seat storage, it can be easy to fit a lot of things inside. Yet, for some with heavy gear and coolers, this could add up to be 600 pounds (272 kg).
Below is a list of some common gear and equipment taken on pontoon boats, along with the weights of each boating accessory.
#1 - Life Preservers - 1 to 2 pounds each
Life preservers are absolutely essential for any trip on the water.
Not to mention, the coast guard will pull you over if children under 13 are not wearing one.
They're quite light, yet can add up if you plan on using your pontoon boat as a party barge.
#2 - Fire Extinguisher - 5 pounds
If you plan on cooking out on your boat, you should have a fire extinguisher at the ready.
You never know when a fire could break loose, and you don't want to watch your sweet boat to go down in flames.
They're once again on the lighter side, yet essential for boat and cooking safety.
#3 - Cooler - 24 pounds (empty) or 50+ pounds (full)
A day out on a boat means bringing a cooler is necessary to keep drinks cool.
Some boaters may even opt to bring multiple coolers loaded with food and drinks loaded inside.
This'll be one of the heavier items stowed away, so make sure you account for its weight.
#4 - Ropes/Dock line - 2 to 20 pounds
Getting out on the water with a boat takes some level of docking for success.
Using a dock line will keep the boat safe from chafing and quick for docking.
These are on the lighter or heavier side depending on what kind of rope you use.
#5 - Anchor with Line/Chain - 2 to 20 pounds
Keeping your boat anchored will be crucial if you ever want to stop in the water and keep your vessel from drifting away.
There are many different kinds of anchors for use with different types of boats.
This will take up some space and can weigh more than most objects, adding some extra pounds.
Custom Pontoon Boats
If you decide to go the route of building your own pontoon boat, then weight can be difficult to calculate. The weight of a pontoon houseboat or pontoon tiny houseboat can add up quickly even when using durable and lightweight materials.
This proves to be true when building a pontoon house due it's overall weight and length. Consider the construction of your boat, and what you have stored inside.
Alternatively, you can also drive through a certified CAT scale to weigh your truck and tow load. This will give an accurate reading to verify you have the right towing gear and truck for the weight of your load.