Tips for Pontoon Beaching

A family on the beach next to a HarrisĀ® pontoon boat.

Tips for Pontoon Beaching

Beaching a pontoon boat can be a tricky endeavor, but one that is worth it! Beaching is the activity of parking your boat on the beach so you can explore the area. There are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and successful beaching experience and our team at Mid-Maine Marine has some advice to share with you. Continue reading to learn more!

Slope

First, it's important to choose a beach with a gradual slope. This will allow for a smooth transition from the water to the sand. It's also important to choose a beach with enough space to accommodate your pontoon boat.

Speed

Before beaching, make sure to slow down your boat and approach the beach at a shallow angle. This will help you avoid any sudden impact on the sand. Once you're close enough, turn off the engine and let the boat glide itself onto the beach.

Timing

It's important to keep in mind that pontoon boats are not designed to stay on the beach for long periods of time. The weight of the boat can cause it to sink into the sand, potentially causing damage to the hull. To avoid this, it's best to only beach your pontoon boat for short periods of time or use an anchor to keep your boat near the beach but in the water.

Back to Water

When it's time to leave the beach, be sure to push the boat back into deeper water before starting the engine. This will help prevent any damage to the propeller. Once you're in deeper water, start the engine and slowly get back to navigating the water.

Keeping these tips in mind can help you have a safe and successful pontoon beaching experience. Remember to always be cautious and aware of your surroundings when operating your pontoon boat. You can visit us in Oakland, ME, to browse our inventory of pontoon boats! We proudly serve the Augusta area.