For boaters who love spending days relaxing on the water, pontoon boats with sleeping quarters allow you to extend the fun into the evening. No need to head back to shore when the sun sets – just unfold the beds and bunk down for the night!
Pontoon boats with sleeping quarters offer overnight accommodation and amenities right on board. They provide boaters the ultimate flexibility to enjoy both days and evenings on the water.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about pontoon boats with sleeping quarters. Learn the benefits they offer, features to look for when buying, and tips to care for them.
What Are Pontoon Boats?
First, let’s start with what exactly pontoon boats are. Pontoon boats, also called party barges, are flat-bottomed boats with two or more horizontal, buoyant cylinders called pontoons mounted underneath. The main deck sits atop these pontoons, providing a large flat platform for seating, storing gear, and mounting accessories.
The twin hulls of pontoon boats give them exceptional stability on the water. The spacious deck layout provides room to relax, fish, swim, and boat with groups of people. Though slower than V-hull boats, they offer unparalleled onboard space.
The Benefits of Pontoon Boats with Sleeping Quarters
What sets certain pontoon boats apart is the addition of sleeping accommodations. Pontoon boats with sleeping quarters allow:
- Multi-day trips: With beds aboard, you aren’t limited to day trips and can continue boating fun into the evenings.
- On-water camping: Pontoons with sleeping allow boaters to camp on anchorages, at marinas, or on beaches overnight.
- Savings over hotels: No need for pricey waterside rooms when you can sleep aboard your boat.
- Traveling lodging: Cruising from one destination to the next? Sleeping pontoons provide mobile lodging wherever you go.
- Secluded getaways: Anchor in a secluded cove to enjoy a private, peaceful retreat away from shore.
So whether you want to stay out late watching sunsets, stargaze at night, or cruise for days without going onshore, pontoon boats with sleeping quarters unlock new possibilities for overnight adventures on the water.
Who Are Pontoons with Sleeping Quarters Ideal For?
Pontoon boats with sleeping accommodations are great for:
- Families who want to camp and cruise together on vacations. Kids will love the onboard “slumber party!”
- Groups of friends who want a place to lounge and crash after a day of watersports and partying.
- Couples looking for a cozy love boat to enjoy secluded overnight escapes.
- Retirees who want to enjoy extensive cruising journeys or snowbird to warmer climes.
- Anglers trying to maximize their time on productive fishing waters day and night.
Really anyone who wants extra time on the water without having to leave when the sun goes down will appreciate a pontoon’s cozy overnight quarters. They allow you to make the most of beautiful sunrises and sunsets from the water.
Types of Pontoon Boats with Sleeping Quarters
There are a few different setups for sleeping accommodations on pontoons. Common options include:
Convertible Furniture
The seats of sofas, lounges and dinettes convert into beds. Ideal for smaller pontoons where space is limited.
Entry-Level Sleeping Cabins
Hard-sided mini cabins built into the deck provide a basic sleeping space good for kids or occasional use.
Enclosed Cabins
Fully enclosed sleeping cabins with bunks, mini-kitchens, bathrooms, and stand-up headroom for comfortable multi-day habitation. High-end versions feel like miniature floating RVs.
Cuddy Cabins
A combination living area and v-berth bed in an enclosed but compact cabin up front. Provides some standing room plus lounging and sleeping space.
The setup you choose depends on your budget and just how rustic or luxurious you want your onboard camping experience to be.
Key Features of Pontoon Boats with Sleeping Quarters
When evaluating pontoons with sleeping accommodations, look for:
Beds & Mattresses – At minimum, expect convertible furniture or basic bunks. For more comfort, look for full-sized beds and plush mattresses.
Stand-Up Headroom – To move around cabin comfortably, look for models with high ceilings and stands up headroom.
Private Cabin – Doors that enclose the cabin keep sleepers separate from entertaining spaces and provide privacy.
Kitchenette – Models with cooktops, sinks and mini fridges allow you to fix meals and snacks aboard.
Heads & Showers – Bathrooms with freshwater sinks, toilets and showers add convenience for multinight trips.
Furnishings – More home-like amenities like stovetops, couches and dining tables increase overnight comfort.
Entertainment Systems – Some models come equipped with TVs, premium sound systems and wireless connectivity.
Climate Control Systems – Air conditioning, heat and humidity management systems keep cabin conditions comfortable in all weather.
Generator – Onboard generators provide power to run amenities and charge batteries while anchored overnight.
Buying Considerations for Pontoon Boats with Sleeping Quarters
If you’re in the market for a pontoon boat with sleeping accommodations, consider:
New vs Used
New lets you customize features but costs more. Used provides savings but limits layout choices. Weigh options vs budget.
Weight Capacity
Calculate total passenger and gear weight to ensure enough displacement for overnight loads.
Layout
Carefully evaluate the location and size of sleeping quarters vs entertaining spaces to meet your needs.
Number of Sleepers
Choose a boat with enough bedding capacity for all passengers, accounting for couples or families. Don’t overcrowd.
Onboard Amenities
Consider which features – standup headroom, kitchen, bathrooms, entertainment systems etc – are must-haves or nice extras.
Storage
Ensure adequate storage for overnight trip provisions like food, drinks, clothing and more.
Trailer vs Dry Dock
Factor in whether you’ll trailer or dock the boat when weighing features like cabin height.
Take time to carefully consider your needs, budget, and how you plan to use the boat to select the ideal pontoon with sleeping quarters for you.
Maintenance and Care of Pontoons with Sleeping Quarters
To keep your pontoon boat with sleeping quarters in top shape:
Keep Cabin Clean
Vacuum, tidy and sanitize sleeping spaces regularly to prevent mold, odors and surface damage.
Check Seals & Gaskets
Ensure seals around doors, windows and openings are watertight to prevent leaks into the cabin. Reseal if needed.
Inspect & Preserve Mattresses
Air out mattresses, flip and sanitize regularly. Use mattress covers to prolong lifespan.
Drain Waste Tanks
Empty grey and black water tanks regularly to keep plumbing fresh and prevent clogs or overflows.
Charge Batteries
Keep cabin electrical systems powered by regularly charging house and trolling motor batteries.
Winterize Systems
In colder climates, winterize the engine, plumbing and cabin systems properly when storing for winter.
Check Safety Gear
Ensure CO detectors, fire extinguishers and life vests are onboard, functional and up to date.
Regular cleaning, maintenance and off-season winterization will keep your pontoon boat with sleeping quarters in great shape for years of overnight adventures.
Enjoy Overnight Adventures on a Pontoon Boat
Adding sleeping accommodations allows you to fully utilize your pontoon boat day and night. Whether you’re looking to cruise for days or just camp out under the stars, pontoon boats with sleeping quarters unlock new possibilities for experiencing time on the water.
With the tips in this guide, you’ll be able to choose the perfect setup, features and options for your needs and budget. Then you can start enjoying sunsets from the water and stargazing at night without leaving your boat. The cozy quarters beckon – just unroll your sleeping bag, climb into the bunks and let the rocking lull you to sleep!
