Tritoon & Pontoon Comparison: Which One Should You Buy?

Both tritoons and pontoons have their pros and cons. Which one is right for you?

Co-authored by Ali Garbacz

Last Updated: February 13, 2023

What exactly are pontoons and tritoons? The two words may sound awfully similar to one another, but these two types of boats actually have quite a few differences between them that will definitely be noticeable once you raise anchor and set sail. We’ll give an in-depth comparison of the two so that you can both differentiate between them and pick one that best suits you if you happen to be in the market to buy a new boat.

Section 1 of 3:

What's the difference between a tritoon and a pontoon?

Tritoons are larger and have 3 floats while pontoons only have 2. A pontoon boat has 2 pontoon tubes, or “floats,” placed under the boat along its length that make up the hull, and a tritoon boat has an additional float in the center. Also, the average pontoon boat will have a length of 16 to 27 feet (4.9 m to 8.2 m), but a tritoon boat will start at 22 feet (6.7 m) and go all the way up to 30 feet (9.1 m) in length.^{[1]
X
Research source}

Section 2 of 3:

Pros of a Tritoon

1
Tritoons can pack more speed compared to a pontoon. The larger size of the tritoon allows space for a bigger engine, which typically comes equipped with capabilities of 250 to 350 horsepower (hp). This means that you can get up to an average speed of around 30 mph (48.3 km/h). Meanwhile, a pontoon boat can only reach up to 150 hp, with speeds falling between 18 to 25 mph (30 to 40.2 km/h). It may not seem like too big of a difference, but you’ll most definitely feel it when you actually get out on the water.^{[2]
X
Research source}
2
Tritoons can navigate rougher waters. While pontoon boats are already rated as being one of the safer options in terms of boats, the tritoon’s third float contributes greatly in helping the boat glide with ease through choppy and rough waters and keeping it stable.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- Thanks to its extra float and high horsepower engine, a tritoon will even be able to go out in the ocean, but only during low tide. High tide may, unfortunately, be a bit too rough for your tritoon.
3
A tritoon can carry more people. A tritoon can accommodate 14 to 25 people depending on size, which is perfect if you’re going to be taking out lots of friends and family on cruises around the lake. Meanwhile, a pontoon boat can usually fit a maximum of 16 people.^{[4]
X
Research source}
4
You can enjoy more water sports with a tritoon. The size of a tritoon makes it perfect for pulling water skiers, tubers, and wakeboarders with ease, and you’ll get a bit more of a thrill given the extra boost of speed you’ll receive compared to a pontoon.^{[5]
X
Research source}

Section 3 of 3:

Pros of a Pontoon

1
Pontoons are cheaper. Given the tritoon’s bigger size and faster speeds, it’s no surprise that it will cost more than a standard pontoon. The average price for a new pontoon can fall between $15,000 and $35,000 or so.^{[6]
X
Research source}
- The average price for a tritoon is between $30,000 and $50,000.
2
Pontoons are easier to store and transport. The large size of the tritoon means that you’ll need to get a much bigger trailer to cart it to and from where you’ll be sailing and will need to shell out some money to keep it in a storage unit large enough to hold it. Meanwhile, many people are able to just keep their pontoon in their garage or an outdoor shed, with no extra costs needed.^{[7]
X
Research source}
- Along those same lines, you’ll have a much easier time launching your pontoon boat into the water compared to a tritoon.
3
Pontoons are best for fishing on small lakes and ponds. The sheer size of a tritoon won’t really allow you to maneuver into those nooks and crannies in a smaller lake or pond, so if you enjoy a calm afternoon of fishing in these types of areas, a pontoon is going to be your best option.^{[8]
X
Research source}