Benington or Sweetwater

[Four R's]

Looking to use it on the bay for cruising and maybe to pull someone on a raft. Any suggestions on size, options and company?

[Bamaman]

Bays mean big water and waves. You'd probably be better off with a 22'-24' tritoon with strakes. You'd go with a 115 hp or 150 motor, depending on how fast you want to go and how many people you'll be taking with you.

My new 24' Bennington is running 40 mph GPS, and it'll do about anything I ask out of it. With 1 year old and 4 year old grandkids, we're going to be back into water sports again.

My wife was pretty smitten with the Bennington at this year's boat show. Even the S models are plenty luxurious for most boaters. Otherwise, we would have been in a Manitou with the VP hull.

[ROLAND]

My wife was pretty smitten with the Bennington at this year's boat show. Even the S models are plenty luxurious for most boaters. Otherwise, we would have been in a Manitou with the VP hull.

Obviously I agree, but I am a little biased since I own a bennington... our's is an S model ( which is Benningtons' entry level line ). We looked at several brands but like your wife, my wife also was in favor of the benny..... what it came down to was price... and since the dealer actually sold me the boat for less than other comperable boats, my decision was easy... only had it couple of years now, but so far, no issues.... We love it, it fits our needs perfectly, but I also think if you stay with any of the "major" brands you're going to get a nice boat...

[Jack65K]

Only had my Bennie for 3 weeks now and absolutely love it. Went form a Sear Ray 240 sundeck to a 2575 Bennie and have no regrets at all - rides better (with the ESP package) and lots more room.
Jack

[bassn386]

Jack65k, who did you buy your Bennie from?

[Jack65K]

bassn386, I bought my Bennie form Midwest Marine in Harrisonville, MO. They have been very good to deal with.
Jack

[Four R's]

Thanks to all of you for your time to respond. My decision is to go longer and with a bigger motor. Will be checking pontoons out at AC boat show next week. What type of discounts should I shoot for?
Thanks!
Four R's

[Just Laxin]

Don't forget to check out the South Bay's.

[Bamaman]

There are many perfectly nice pontoon boats on the market. After all, they're somewhat generic save for the quality of the upholstery.

Just make sure the boat you buy suits your family's needs for the present and the future. Horsepower's the cheapest on Day 1.

We're fortunate to have such a good source of information and knowledgeable people on this website. And, their advice is right on the money.