First time Pontoon owner

[Marine 1371]

Hi everyone. Just bought a 2016 Bennington with a 70 hp Yamaha. Have had decks boats and cabin cruisers in the past. Any tips?

Thanks!

 

[lakeliving]

Congrats and enjoy it! Wind can add complexity when docking so go slow and practice your approach.

 

[2026 S20]

That's certainly good advice above. My wife & I are also new boat owners this year, and we have a boat lift, and when it is breezy, it can be hard to get between the posts (in particular the brackets at the bottom). Don't be afraid to back up and make multiple attempts to dock if that's what it takes. I have a scratch on my starboard side pontoon that was of my own doing.
Also, enjoy your time on the water with your family or friends. They are awesome for entertaining. My brother has a speed boat, I always said I'd never get a pontoon boat, but now I have, and think they are the best for a day on the water.

 

[Marine 1371]

Thanks for the comments! Haven't loaded it back on the trailer yet, I imagine its a little different than my previous boats

 

[lakeliving]

Get some tall loading guides that go on the outside of the trailer. Makes it so much easier.

 

[LaurencetheAdventurer]

And if you frequent windy days, or want the BEST - toon loading guides prevent the front from being blown off the trailer while loading, especially on deep water ramps. ON Windy ways, this allows me to approach the trailer from any angle, get a pontoon slightly into the trailer, then use that corner guide to spin the boat straight and slide it in, while my interior guides prevent the front end from being flown off the trailer.

 

[Marine 1371]

Those trailer guides look sweet, where dis you get them.