The origin of the Pontoon Boat
The origins of the pontoon boat are much older than one might think. The first of its kind are said to date back to the 11th century B.C., when the Chinese dynasty used them to create bridges for their soldiers. But the modern pontoon was invented in 1951. It is the American Ambrose Weeres who developed it to travel the many lakes of Minnesota, where he is originally from, with his family. Named Empress, it is a simple wooden board installed on two steel barrels. Weeres Industry Corporation, the first company to manufacture pontoon boats, was founded in 1952. At the end of the 50s, the steel floats are replaced by aluminum, to gain in lightness and in the 60s, the boats are equipped with many seats and furniture, as we know them in their current version.
Pontoon Boat in France
In France, the pontoon boat is struggling to become popular with boaters, yet its importer Bass Boat Europe believes strongly as Ludovic Bréchet explains. "We work mainly with professional clients. There is still a margin for the recreational clientele. The Pontoon should not be seen by its use, but by its utility. It is a great platform to spend time with family and friends on calm waters and lakes. The idea is not to sail, but to reach a place to spend the day."
The company Base Boat Europe, taken over in September 2022 by two new partners, imports in France four brands of pontoon boats:
- Regency: the typical American Premium brand with 6 models from 7.72 to 8.36 m
- Sun Tracker: a family range from 6.10 to 7.37 m
- Ranger Boats : 10 luxury pontoons, cruising or fishing from 6,67 m to 8,35 m
- Smartliner: An entry-level offer with two models of 5.60 and 6.80 m
A comfortable and spacious platform for a day at anchor
The pontoon boat is built on two aluminum floats. It is often equipped with a gull wing. A laminated wooden floor serves as a floor. On board, depending on the range chosen, there is plenty of seating, tables, each with its own seat, a steering position, storage space everywhere, coolers, refrigerators, speakers, and even for the Regency range, a changing cabin or a chemical toilet, to undress in complete privacy. Each model offers three entrances on board, one on the side and one at the front and back. Approximately 14 people can take place on board with all the expected comfort.
The Pontoon Boat, with its large deck area, lends itself to many uses: fishing, boating, as well as water sports, as the platforms can be equipped with large engines for towing. Most models can be towed by a car to be stored out of the water.
Rates 2022 from 122,000 euros for a Regency and 68,000 euros for a Smartliner
