Beautiful scenic view of lake houses on the shoreline with a pontoon boat in the water.

Tritoon vs Pontoon: Which is Better?

In this post, we’ll look at the controversial tritoon vs. pontoon boats comparison. We’ll explore some of the significant differences and similarities between boats. We will also look at some of the most asked questions when it comes to these styles of boats so that you can have as much information as possible before deciding which boat type is right for you. So please keep reading, and let’s discover the world of tritoon and pontoon boats!

Pontoon vs. Tritoon: What's the Difference?

The most distinguishable difference between a pontoon boat and a tritoon boat is the number of tubes included in the boat’s hull. A pontoon boat has two tubes in the boat hull, while a tritoon boat has three tubes in the boat’s hull.

Is A Tritoon Slower Than A Pontoon Boat?

No! It’s the exact opposite. Tritoon boats are faster than pontoon boats. Tritoon boats can reach 250 horsepower, and some can even exceed 350. The average horsepower for a pontoon boat is about 165.

Tritoon boats have an additional tube in the boat’s hull that allows for better weight distribution allowing for more horsepower and, in return, allowing it to go faster than a pontoon boat.

Are Tritoon Boats Good In Rough Water?

Tritoons offer good stability by having three tubes in the boat’s hull. This can be an advantage when dealing with rough water. That said, it is essential to remember that the more experience a driver has, the better. It’s always best to follow best safety practices when dealing with rough water on any pontoon or tritoon boat.

Titoon boat parked at a nicely landscaped lake home home; resembles a pontoon except for the extra tube.
File Attribution: Jacob.p.servant, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

What Is the Average Cost of A Pontoon Boat?

Pontoon boats can range in cost. One of the first questions is whether you want to purchase new or used. A Brand new pontoon can go from around $18,000 – $60,000. The most common pontoon boats you’ll see on the lake are generally somewhere in the middle range of about $35,000.

What Is the Average Cost of A Tritoon Boat?

Tritoon boats can have an even more drastic range in price than pontoons. Tritoons start around $18,000 and can go up to $175,000. This price range generally depends on the boat’s size and how many types of accessories the boat includes.

What Is The Advantage Of A Tritoon Boat?

The main advantage of a tritoon vs. a pontoon is the extra tube it has. This allows for the boat generally to be more stable and allows for the boat to handle a higher horsepower engine. With a higher horsepower rating, the tritoon can typically go much faster than a traditional pontoon-style boat.

Do you need a boat lift for your pontoon or tritoon? Request a quote today!

Do Pontoon Lift Strakes Work?

Lift strakes lift the boat higher in the water. This allows for the boat to travel 15-25% faster. Some pontoons come with lift strakes as an added feature. Lift strakes can also assist in stability when traveling in rough waters. Lift strakes can help achieve more water sports that couldn’t be performed without the lift strakes.

Are 3 Pontoons Better Than 2?

This question depends on what you are trying to do with your boat. Three tubes might be a better choice if you’re looking for increased speed and stability. A two-tube will work well if you’re looking for a lovely time cruising around the lake. It depends on what your goal out on the water is. We recommend speaking with a boat expert to help answer all of your questions and help you decide the best options available for your boating needs.

In Conclusion

When it comes to pontoon vs. tritoon boats, they are very similar, with some distinct differences. Always remember that a tritoon boat has three tubes in the boat’s hull, while a pontoon only has 2. Tritoons generally go faster than pontoons due to having higher horsepower ability. If you’re looking for more speed and stability in rougher waters, a tritoon might be just right for you. 

While on the other hand, if you’re looking for a nice smooth ride with a slower overall speed, a pontoon could be the best option. Remember to always consult with an expert to help answer all of your specific questions when it comes to researching tritoon and pontoon boats. They can assist in boat size and accessories that you may or may not need. Lastly, remember that safety always comes first on the water to ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience. 

And if you need a boat lift for large boats such as these, LOTO Lift at Lake of the Ozarks has boat lifts for pontoons and tritoons. Happy boating!

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