by Looking for a fun and relaxing way to enjoy time on the water without spending a fortune? A pontoon boat might be just what you need.
Whether you’re into fishing, cruising with the family, or just soaking up the sun on a lazy afternoon, these flat-decked beauties are all about comfort, space, and convenience. And the best part? You don’t have to break the bank to own one.
In this post, we’ll walk you through 5 of the best affordable pontoon boats that offer great value for the money. So, if you’re shopping for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on fun, keep reading!
Why Choose a Pontoon Boat?
Before we dive into the top picks, let’s talk about why pontoon boats are so popular.
Pontoon boats are perfect for:
- Casual cruising on lakes and rivers
- Entertaining large groups with plenty of seating
- Water sports like tubing (with small engines)
- Fishing, especially with add-on features like rod holders and livewells
Their wide, flat decks give you room to move, and their stability makes them great for families with kids or pets. Plus, they’re easy to maintain and handle—ideal for beginners!
Top 5 Budget-Friendly Pontoon Boats
Ready to find your perfect match? Here are our top 5 affordable pontoon boats that give you good bang for your buck.
1. Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 XL Select
If you’re looking for a starter fishing pontoon that doesn’t feel like a downgrade, the **Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 XL Select** is a standout.
Why we love it:
- Comes fully equipped for fishing—think rod holders, livewell, and aft helm seat
- Compact size makes it easy to trailer and store
- Stable and comfortable enough for all-day outings
With a price starting just under $20,000 (including trailer), this boat proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy lake life.
Pro tip: If you live near a quiet lake or pond and want to combine cruising with some light fishing, this could be your perfect weekend companion.
2. Lowe Ultra 180 Cruise
Want something versatile that works for both family outings and solo escapes? The **Lowe Ultra 180 Cruise** checks all the boxes.
Best for:
- Leisurely day cruising with friends or family
- Swimming, thanks to easy ladder access
- Optional fishing upgrades for added utility
Starting at around $23,000, this 19-foot pontoon offers a plush lounge area and a budget-friendly price tag. It’s a solid choice for first-time buyers looking for a balance of comfort and performance.
3. Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX
As the name suggests, this one’s built to bring the party. The **Party Barge 20 DLX** is ideal for those who want a little luxury without the luxury price tag.
Why it stands out:
- Spacious layout with tons of room for lounging and socializing
- Comfy wraparound couches and a roomy deck
- Built-in stereo and Bluetooth system
Despite offering a lot, this pontoon comes in at around $30,000, making it one of the most affordable luxury-style pontoons out there.
Think of it like owning a living room… that floats. Perfect for sunset cruises or a fireworks show on the water!
4. Bennington 168SL
If design and comfort matter to you but you still want to watch your spending, the **Bennington 168SL** could be your dream boat.
Key features:
- Sleek upholstery design and stylish finishes
- Rear-lounge seating for ultimate relaxation
- Configurable layouts depending on how you want to use the space
Bennington is known for quality craftsmanship, and this model delivers both comfort and reliability without going overboard on price. It starts in the high teens to low $20,000s depending on upgrades.
Fun fact: Some owners say they fell in love with the Bennington before they even stepped aboard—just from seeing it at the dock!
5. Princecraft Vectra 21
Rounding out the list is the **Princecraft Vectra 21**, a versatile pontoon that does a little bit of everything—and does it well.
Highlights include:
- Generous seating space for 9+ passengers
- Smooth ride powered by a 60HP Mercury outboard (standard)
- Optional fishing and entertainment features
Priced around $27,000, this mid-sized option is a happy medium for families who want to enjoy everything from swimming to fishing and casual cruising.
Things to Consider Before You Buy
Not sure which one suits you best? Here are a few quick questions to ask yourself:
- What will you use it for? (Fishing, relaxing, watersports?)
- How many people will be on board regularly?
- What’s your budget, including trailer and accessories?
- Where will you store it — and can you tow it?
Remember, you also need to account for other costs like maintenance, gas, taxes, and insurance. But even with those added in, an affordable pontoon makes owning a boat much more accessible for everyday families.
Final Thoughts: Affordable Fun on the Water
You don’t need a six-figure yacht to enjoy life on the water. These budget pontoon boats are proof that you can cruise in comfort, host friends, or fish in peace without draining your savings.
Whether you go with the compact Bass Buggy or a roomier setup like the Princecraft Vectra 21, one thing’s for sure: your weekends will never be the same.
So, what are you waiting for? Summer fun is calling. Which boat do you picture yourself on?
Got experience with any of these models—or another budget-friendly pontoon you love? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
