Pontoon boats are one of the simplest kinds of water craft. Basically, a pontoon is a large flat board fixed to two floating objects. The floating objects are usually long cylinders attached lengthwise to the large, flat board. In this manner, the board is kept afloat above the water and can act as a water craft. When two floating objects are used in a pontoon, it’s referred to as a catamaran; when three floats are used, a trimaran.

Unlike rafts, which are the simplest form of boat, and only float because of the material used in their construction, the flat part of a pontoon can be made of materials which would normally sink. The buoyancy of the floats keeps the main flat part of the pontoon afloat. Because of this, pontoons can be large enough to act as car-ferries and, while still simple craft, they are much more stable than rafts.

Many people who like to go on the water are attracted to buying a pontoon, for many reasons. Firstly, they are quite cheap vessels. Apart from an engine, there aren’t many expensive engineering parts to a pontoon… well, none in their most basic form! Secondly, people are attracted to the fact that it’s very hard to upturn a pontoon, or sink one. Thirdly, because of reasons one and two, it’s relatively cheap to insure a pontoon. Fourthly, they are easy to navigate through shallow waters because of the lack of a hull and, as such, are suited to rivers. Fishermen, especially, are attracted to pontoons, especially if they’re on vacation and need to rent a cheap, sturdy vessel.

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