You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy everything that makes pontoon boats so popular—spacious layouts, comfortable seating, and smooth, stable rides. In fact, the under-$50,000 category is packed with options that deliver big value for families, anglers, and casual cruisers alike. Whether you’re looking for a versatile deck for watersports, a quiet retreat for evening cruises, or a fishing-friendly platform with livewells and rod holders, today’s market has plenty of pontoons that offer impressive performance and features without breaking the bank. From reliable construction to smart, family-ready designs, these 10 pontoons prove you can get out on the water in style—without draining your wallet.

Ranger Reata 220FC

Base Price: $47,995

The Ranger Reata 220FC is a true fish-and-cruise pontoon designed for families who want flexibility on the water without compromising comfort or fishability. At 24′2″ overall with a 22′1″ deck and a 8’6″ beam, this pontoon offers plenty of space for up to 10 people to stretch out, cast a line, or simply relax under the 10′ EasyLift™ Bimini. Rated for up to 150 horsepower and carrying a 32-gallon fuel tank, it’s well-equipped for all-day fun whether you’re trolling, tubing, or exploring the lake. Anglers will appreciate the two aft fishing seats, a 15-gallon aerated livewell, lockable 7′6″ rod box, and pre-rigging for a trolling motor. Meanwhile, the forward lounge-style seating includes a plush L-shaped bench and dual deluxe recliners that create a living-room feel. Add in the Wet Sounds® stereo system, in-console cooler compartment, and touchscreen system monitor, and the 220FC becomes a versatile platform for everyone onboard. With durable construction, premium seating, and something for every member of the family, the Ranger Reata 220FC is an ideal pick for families who want to fish, cruise, and relax—all for under $50K.

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Bennington 20 SX Quad Bench

Base Price: $42,380

The Bennington 20 SX Quad Bench is proof that entry-level doesn’t have to mean stripped-down. At just under 21 feet with a wide 8′6″ beam, this pontoon is compact enough to trailer with ease, yet smartly laid out to feel anything but small. Its hallmark quad bench layout gives passengers plenty of room to sprawl—whether you’re soaking in the sun up front or kicking back in the spacious rear lounges. Everything feels intentional here, from the plush Simtex® upholstery to the clever under-seat storage that keeps your day bag or cooler neatly tucked away. The helm is simple but sharp, offering tilt steering, a comfy high-back captain’s chair, and an optional wireless phone charger that adds a modern touch. Bennington includes a Rockford Fosgate® audio system with lighted speakers, and the quick-release 10′ Bimini gives you instant shade when it’s time to cool off. Rated for up to 140 hp, the 20 SX is no slouch when you want to cruise or pull a tube—but it’s just as content easing along at a sunset pace. If you’re looking for a pontoon that balances upscale touches with practical design—and keeps more money in your pocket—the Bennington 20 SX Quad Bench checks all the right boxes.

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Tahoe Sport 85 Elite Windshield 25′

Base Price: $32,969

The Tahoe Sport 85 Elite Windshield 25′ is a head-turning pontoon with bold looks and a layout tailored for all-day cruising, entertaining, and even a bit of watersports flair. At 25 feet in length, it delivers a sleek, upscale feel thanks to its dual helmstand design and removable twin windshields—an uncommon feature in this price range that adds a sporty touch while offering extra wind protection for captain and co-pilot. Step aboard and you’re greeted by plush 1500 Series furniture wrapped in Leon marine vinyl with heat-stamped accents, plus thoughtful touches like built-in lounge arm storage, stainless cup holders, and a compact trash bin tucked discreetly where space allows. Suspension seating and flow-through ventilated seat frames ensure comfort that lasts through long lake days. The flooring is full-coverage Riptide vinyl, offering easy clean-up and non-slip durability. Fusion’s RA-60 sound system with four EL speakers comes standard, and the helm includes tilt steering, full gauges, a USB charging port, and a low-back captain’s chair with adjustable slider. While most versions ride on twin 25″ pontoons and include a 25-gallon fuel tank, the upgraded CCF package transforms this into a performance-ready triple-toon setup with four lifting strakes, an underdeck wave shield, a 38-gallon fuel tank, and an integrated ski tow bar—ideal for tubing or wake play. Whether you’re cruising quietly with friends, taking the family for a sunset ride, or throwing on your favorite playlist while anchored at the sandbar, the Tahoe Sport 85 Elite Windshield 25′ serves up serious comfort with an athletic edge—an ideal fit for boaters who want sporty styling, practical features, and an enjoyable ride that doesn’t feel like everyone else’s pontoon.

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Sun Tracker Party Barge® 22 DLX

Base Price: $36,995

The Sun Tracker Party Barge 22 DLX is all about bringing the whole crew together for a day of lakeside lounging, swimming, and fun. With a roomy 24′2″ footprint and space for up to 11 passengers, this pontoon makes it easy to stretch out and enjoy the water. It’s rated for up to 150 horsepower and comes standard with a 90hp Mercury FourStroke, paired with a 32.1-gallon fuel tank for a full day of cruising or anchoring out. Four plush lounges, two high-back captain’s chairs, and an abundance of cup holders make for a relaxing setup, while the removable table and ample underseat storage keep things practical. A FLARE™ touchscreen display and Wet Sounds® Bluetooth stereo system (with four hidden speakers) make the helm modern and easy to use. Accessibility is a standout, with wide gates (including a wheelchair-accessible port gate), dual swim decks, and a 4-step telescoping ladder for easy water entry. The 10′ QuickLift™ Bimini top includes LED courtesy lights for comfort and style even as the sun goes down. Whether you’re hosting a floating picnic or just kicking back in the sun, the Party Barge 22 DLX delivers comfort, convenience, and value—making it a top pick for families looking for a well-appointed pontoon

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Starcraft EX 20 R

Base Price: $32,757

The Starcraft EX 20 R delivers dependable comfort and performance in a stylish, budget-friendly pontoon that’s easy to trailer and perfect for weekend getaways. At 20 feet long with 25″ diameter pontoons, it offers a spacious layout for family cruising, entertaining, or casual fishing. The “R” layout centers around versatile bench seating throughout the bow and stern, along with a rotocast helm console featuring easy-to-read gauges and a tilt steering wheel. Passengers will appreciate the convenient change room, power canopy for quick shade, and plush marine-grade upholstery built on durable, ventilated furniture bases. A 4-step telescoping ladder, table with cupholders, and a Wet Sounds™ stereo system come standard, adding to the all-day usability. With a max rating of 90 to 115 hp depending on setup, the EX 20 R has enough punch to pull a tube or cruise comfortably all afternoon. Whether you’re upgrading from a smaller runabout or buying your first family pontoon, the EX 20 R offers a reliable, feature-rich package at a price that won’t derail your summer plans.

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Bentley LE 180 3 PT

Base Price: $25,615

The Bentley LE 180 3-Point is a compact and stylish pontoon—perfect for families seeking simplicity, comfort, and affordability. Measuring just over 18 feet with an 8′6″ beam, it accommodates up to 8 passengers and comes standard with an 18-gallon fuel tank—ideal for relaxed days on the water. Inside, the open layout feels roomy, with bow seating and a large aft bench providing comfortable spots for lounging and conversation. There’s ample under-seat storage for gear, towels, and coolers. The helm is straightforward yet functional, featuring an upholstered captain’s chair, easy-to-reach switches, a cupholder, and a tilt steering wheel for added comfort. Built on sturdy all-aluminum pontoons with welded construction, the LE 180 3-Point offers excellent corrosion resistance and low maintenance. Its lightweight frame makes it easily towable behind most SUVs, while stainless steel cleats, rails, and mooring hardware give it a durable, refined touch. Though minimalistic by design, the LE 180 includes key essentials like LED navigation lights, courtesy lighting, and a marine-grade deck—ensuring it’s ready for day-to-day adventures. For those looking for a no-fuss, well-built pontoon under $50K, the Bentley LE 180 3-Point is a smart and stylish choice.

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Godfrey Sweetwater 2086 C

Base Price: $$36,462

The Godfrey Sweetwater 2086 C offers a fantastic balance of cruising comfort and family-friendly versatility in a manageable 21’10” package with an 8’6″ beam. Designed for fun and ease of use, it seats up to 11 and weighs just 2,200 lbs dry, making it easy to tow and launch. One of its major strengths is layout: port and starboard bow loungers and an L-shaped stern lounge create inviting seating areas perfect for socializing, snacking, or soaking up the sun. Underneath the cushions, you’ll find generous storage that keeps gear and snacks neatly tucked away. Construction-wise, the 2086 C uses durable .080‑inch 5052 marine alloy logs, pressure‑treated decking with mechanical fastening, and sound‑reducing fence insulation for a quiet ride. It’s rated for up to 90–150 hp (depending on engine choice and toon selection), and the 30-gallon fuel tank ensures a day’s worth of cruising without frequent stops. What ties it all together is the attention to finishes—stainless rails and cleats, clean wiring, and a stylish but rugged aesthetic. That, plus Godfrey’s strong warranty and refinements typical of their Sweetwater line, make the 2086 C a compelling pick for families seeking a reliable, comfortable pontoon.

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Harris Cruiser 230

Base Price: $45,043

The Harris Cruiser 230 proves that luxury and performance can absolutely coexist under the $50K mark. Measuring 25′3″ with a wide 8′6″ beam and built on durable 25″ pontoons, this model blends comfort-first design with polished, upscale details. Rated for up to 200 horsepower and carrying 29 gallons of fuel in its twin-tube setup, the Cruiser 230 delivers confident cruising power—whether you’re exploring open water or towing the kids on a tube. Step aboard and you’re greeted by a layout that feels more boutique lounge than basic boat. The quad-lounger configuration invites guests to stretch out in multiple directions, all surrounded by plush marine-grade upholstery and stylish options like RGB lighting and textured flooring. Under-seat compartments offer hidden storage that’s actually easy to access, and the helm is anything but standard—it features a high-back captain’s chair, intuitive gauges, a Clarion sound system, and available upgrades like Simrad® displays or a premium JL Audio system. This isn’t just a boat that looks good at the dock—it’s designed to feel high-end in every moment. From its smooth ride to the seamless transition between sun and shade (thanks to the quick-deploy Bimini), the Harris Cruiser 230 hits the sweet spot between family fun and refined relaxation. If you’re after a pontoon that turns heads and elevates every outing, the Cruiser 230 belongs at the top of your list.

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Sun Tracker Bass Buggy® 16 XL Select

Base Price: $17,995

The Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 XL Select is one of the most affordable and fishing-focused pontoons on the market—perfect for anglers who want simplicity, space, and value in a compact package. At just 18′5″ overall with a 16′ deck, this nimble boat can be towed and launched with ease, even solo. It’s rated for up to 50 horsepower, comes standard with a 20hp Mercury FourStroke, and holds up to 7 people comfortably—ideal for fishing outings with friends or family. The forward deck is built for casting and catching, with two removable folding fishing chairs and a 9-gallon aerated livewell built right into the console seat. The helm includes a vertical rod holder, Bluetooth Wet Sounds® stereo, and easy-access controls. An L-shaped aft lounge provides a place to relax between bites, while three gates and fore/aft platforms make it easy to move around or jump in the water. With tons of smart storage, integrated rod holders, and an optional Lowrance fishfinder/trolling motor package, the Bass Buggy 16 XL Select delivers everything a casual or budget-conscious angler could want—at a price that keeps more cash in your tackle budget.

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Godfrey Xperience 2286 SFLX

Base Price: $32,170

The Godfrey Xperience 2286 SFLX offers a perfect blend of relaxation and sporty performance in a trailer-friendly 23′10″ vessel. With a 102″ beam, a recommended 150 hp limit, and a 30‑gallon fuel tank, it’s easy to tow yet capable enough for cruising or towing tubes. The standout feature is the Stern Single Flip Lounge—a seat that pivots forward for travel or back for socializing—plus generous under-seat storage that makes it ultra-versatile for family outings. At the helm, you’ll find well-placed controls, a flip bolster captain’s seat, and room for an optional wireless phone charger. The reinforced pontoon logs—25″ outer tubes and a 27″ center tube with under-deck skin across triple logs—deliver smooth, efficient rides and heavier load capacity. Integrated cupholders, storage boxes, and a Clarion Bluetooth stereo add to the enjoyment. Overall, the 2286 SFLX feels like a premium, high-end pontoon without the premium price tag—easy to handle, enjoyable to ride, and designed with real families in mind. It’s a smart pick for anyone seeking performance, comfort, and versatility in one eye-catching package.

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Disclosure: Images shown may include optional equipment or configurations not included in the base models. BoaterUSA strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information; however, specifications, features, and pricing are subject to change without notice. We do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of any information provided. Always verify details with the manufacturer or an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.