Ever heard of pontoon boats? We wouldn’t be surprised if you haven’t yet. Pontoon boats are commonly used and found in the Northern Hemisphere countries such as Canada and the United States but here in the Great Southern Land, not a lot of boaters have been introduced to them. But recently, these boats have cruised all the way to the land of Oz and slowly introducing themselves to Australian folks. Pontoons are flat, broad deck that is supported by two or more pontoons. Pontoons are cylindrical, airtight structures that provide buoyancy to the boat, hence the name pontoon boat. Typically, pontoons are made of aluminium, or sometimes inflatable materials. The wide and flat deck supported by pontoons provides great stability which helps everyone on board walk around without losing their balance. These boats are great for fishing, cruising, and tow watersports. They can even be used as a houseboat.

BRP, a Canadian land and water based powersports specialist has partnered with Telwater (the owner of Quintrex, Stacer, and Yellowfin boats) here in Australia to launch the Manitou Pontoons to the Australian market.

Since you will be seeing these boats in various boat dealerships across the country, you might be thinking of wanting to invest in one. After all there’s so much you can do with these boats. If you plan to take your family cruising in rivers or lakes, or throw a boat party with your mates, you can easily do it with a pontoon. Manitou uses the three-hull design as it distributes weight more evenly across the water and makes the pontoon boats far more stable than a traditional twin-hulled craft. It will make use of the Rotax S engine to power the boat.

Throwing a party on a pontoon can be an incredibly enjoyable and memorable experience since it offers an ideal setting for hosting gatherings on the water. Whether it's a birthday celebration, a casual get-together, or a holiday party, it’s all possible. If you want to know how to throw a party on a pontoon, it’s no different with organising a boat party, but we’re still here to discuss the proper way to plan a party to ensure a fun, safe, and successful get together:  

Choose the Right Pontoon Boat

Select a pontoon boat that suits your party's size and needs. Consider the boat's capacity, layout, amenities (such as seating, shade, and sound systems), and any additional features needed for entertainment. For parties with a large number of people on deck, it’s ideal to get the best family pontoon boat such as the Manitou pontoon since it has features and amenities that are suited for a large number of people.

Manitou pontoons have features such as a folding Bimini to offer shade from the sun’s beam, wide seating space, a wide deck, and LED lights, just to mention a few. Deck out, let loose, and have fun.

Plan Ahead

Start planning the party well in advance. Consider the number of guests, food and beverage options, entertainment, decorations, and any special activities you want to incorporate into the party.

Send Invitations

Send out invitations ahead of time so your guests have plenty of time to decide if they can join or not. Make sure to provide them with the essential details such as the date, time, meeting location, and any specific instructions or theme for the party so they don’t have to ask these questions and focus more on more specific questions they want to ask you.

Docking Location

Choose a suitable docking location that allows easy access for guests and offers a scenic or relaxing view. Ensure the location complies with local regulations and has adequate amenities for everyone’s comfort and safety.

Food and Drinks

Plan a menu that suits the setting and ensures convenience. Consider easy-to-eat finger foods, appetizers, and refreshing beverages. Opt for portable, non-sticky/messy, and non-perishable options so your food won’t get spoiled right away. Make sure to bring a cooler big enough to store your food and beverages and efficient enough to keep its coldness for hours.

Entertainment and Activities

Prepare a playlist of music or consider hiring a DJ to set the mood. Bring along card games or watersports equipment for activities such as swimming, tubing, or paddleboarding, or you can even install a rooftop and a slide for a more exhilarating experience.  

Safety First

Prioritise safety by ensuring all guests, especially non-swimmers, have access to life jackets or personal flotation devices. Familiarise everyone with safety protocols, onboard rules, and the boat's layout.

Capture the Moments

Bring along a camera to capture the fun and memorable moments during the party. Remember the moments with pictures of videos. It’s up to you if you want to post them on Instagram or make a TikTok video of the lively event.  

Be a Gracious Host

Since you’re the designated host (unless you assign someone else this job), make sure that everyone feels included and comfortable. Attend to their needs, and make them feel appreciated for joining the celebration.

Respect the Environment

Be mindful of the environment by avoiding littering or polluting the water. Dispose of trash properly and leave the area without making a mess or damaging nature.

Have a Backup Plan

Be prepared for unexpected changes in weather or unforeseen circumstances. Have a backup plan for shelter, alternate activities, or route changes if needed.

End on a High Note

Wrap up the party gracefully by thanking guests for coming and ensuring everyone disembarks safely. Express your gratitude for their presence. Your guests will appreciate this gesture and might even look forward to the party. Now you’ve become the cool person who throws fun parties.  

Throwing a shindig on a pontoon boat is a fantastic way to enjoy the water, socialise with friends and family, and create lasting memories.