Have you ever rented one of our pontoon boats for a day out on Bartlett Lake? If not, perhaps you are unsure how to handle a pontoon on the water. Well, rest easy: the reason pontoon rentals are so popular is that they are an easy boat to handle on the water. But here are some of the tips we've learned and share with our renters on how to manage pontoon boats:
Obey all signs. This is a generic boating tip, but do be sure to follow any posted signs and channel markers (on any body of water). Respect signs that ask for slow speeds, which are generally found near coastlines, marinas and docks.
No need for speed. Maintain a low speed when reversing or approaching a dock/marina. There's no need to rush! This will give you plenty of time to react to anthing, if necessary, and will give you the ability to adjust as well.
Practice making turns. Once you're in open water, practice making 180 degree turns. You'll notice a slower response time than conventional watercraft (if you've been on one) due to a pontoon's wideness. Your turning radius will likely be wider than you expect. Ease into turns, and then apply more turn of the wheel as necessary.
Remember: slow response. Because of its build, a pontoon will have a slow response time. Keep this in mind and avoid overcorrecting or trying to rush things.
Want more? Watch this video from Destin Vacation Boat Rentals in Florida to see all of this in action!
Remember, when you rent a boat from us, we provide you with instructions, answer your questions and equip you with all of the safety items you might need, including life jackets, throw cushions, a fire extinguisher, oars and anchors. Interested in checking out our fleet? Stop by or give us a call! And when you get in your rental pontoon here at Bartlett Lake, don't hesitate to ask us any questions you may have. We want you to have a great, relaxing experience, not a stressful one!
