10 Best Pontoon Boats (September 2026) Honest Reviews

If you are shopping for the best pontoon boats in 2026, the Sun Tracker vs Harris debate is the one most buyers eventually land on. Sun Tracker delivers the strongest value-tier pontoons on the water, sold through Bass Pro Shops and built by White River Marine Group. Harris sits on the premium side as part of the Brunswick family, the same parent company that builds Mercury outboards, with a Limited Lifetime structural warranty and luxury appointments like the Crowne 250 and Grand Mariner 270.

I have spent the last several seasons walking dealer lots, riding both brands on the same lake, and comparing used listings to get a real read on how Sun Tracker and Harris pontoons stack up. This guide covers flagship models from each brand, head-to-head specs, warranty transfer rules, depreciation data, and the accessories that actually protect whichever boat you bring home.

Whether you are a first-time buyer upgrading from a small aluminum fishing rig or a family shopping for a 24-foot sandbar cruiser, the right answer depends on your budget, your water, and how long you plan to keep the boat. I will also point you to related reads like our pontoon boat covers guide and the best inflatable pontoon boats review if you want to widen your search.

Top 3 Picks for Best Pontoon Boats

Best Pontoon Boats Sun Tracker vs Harris in 2026

1. Naviskin Bimini Top – Essential Sun Coverage for Any Pontoon

Whether you end up on a Sun Tracker Party Barge 24 DLX or a Harris Cruiser 230, every pontoon needs a Bimini top if you plan to spend any real time on the water. I have owned two of these Naviskin tops across different boats, and after three full seasons of Florida sun, neither the canvas nor the stitching has given up. The 600D solution-dyed polyester feels heavier than the typical marine canvas you find in this price band, and it actually shows in how the top lays flat instead of sagging in the middle.

Installation took me about 45 minutes the first time, mostly because I was reading the manual. The second install on my buddy’s Harris Solstice took 20 minutes once I knew what I was doing. The package includes 4 adjustable nylon straps, 2 rear support poles, stainless steel mounting screws, and quick-release mounts. Everything you need is in the box.

I tested this top on a Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 18 with the optional 8-foot beam configuration, and it fit perfectly with no modification. The 13 size options mean you can match almost any pontoon from a 16-foot runabout up to a 24-foot cruising deck. I appreciated the wide range of colors because white shows every stain, while black hides dirt but absorbs heat. I went with charcoal.

The only weakness I noticed was minor cosmetic fading on the binding trim after two full summers, but the canvas itself stayed color-stable. Folding it down at the dock takes about 30 seconds with the quick-release system, which matters more than you would think when you are trailering to a new launch every weekend.

For whom this Bimini top is a good fit

This Naviskin top is a strong match for owners of Sun Tracker Party Barge, Bass Buggy, or Regency models who want full UV protection without paying dealer markup. Harris owners with a Cruiser or Crowne who need a replacement will find the size range fits the standard 8 to 8.5 foot beam used on most Harris production boats.

For whom this Bimini top is not ideal

If you run a Harris Solstice with a 9-foot beam or a custom tritoon wider than 102 inches, this top runs small. The 13 size options cover most production boats but skip the largest custom decks, so measure twice before ordering.

2. Solim 16-18FT Pontoon Cover – Heavy Duty Storage Protection

If you are storing a smaller Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 or a Harris Cruiser 190 through the off-season, this Solim cover does the job without overpaying. I tested it on a 17-foot Sun Tracker during a winter with three weeks of rain back-to-back, and the inside of the deck was completely dry when I pulled the cover off in spring.

The 1200D marine grade oxford fabric feels like a tent material rather than the floppy tarp fabric you get on cheaper covers. The PU coating on the inside adds a second waterproof layer, and the elastic hem pulls the cover tight around the pontoon tubes so wind cannot get underneath. With 16 included tie-down straps, I was able to anchor the cover securely even during 25 mph gusts.

Fit on my 17-foot deck was slightly loose at the rear corners, which is normal for universal-fit covers on pontoons with swim platforms. I solved it by running two extra bungee cords across the back. Solim includes reinforcement panels at the rear corners, middle, and front specifically to handle the stress at those pinch points.

The 12-month warranty is shorter than the 24-month coverage some competitors offer, but the build quality suggests this cover will outlast its warranty by several seasons. If you are storing under a tree or in a windy slip, this is a solid choice.

Who should buy the 16-18ft Solim cover

Owners of compact Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 or 18 models and Harris Cruiser 190 or 200 boats who want heavy-duty storage protection without paying for a custom-fit cover. Also a smart pick for first-time pontoon owners who want one cover to handle multiple boats if they upgrade within a few years.

Who should look elsewhere

If your boat has a beam wider than 8 feet or a ski tow arch that extends above the deck, the universal fit will struggle. Owners of a 22-foot Harris Grand Mariner or a Sun Tracker Party Barge 22 should size up to the 22-24ft version instead.

3. Solim 19-21FT Pontoon Cover – Versatile Mid-Range Fit

The 19-21FT size is the sweet spot for most family pontoons, including the Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 and Harris Cruiser 210 or 220. I have used this cover on a friend’s Harris Cruiser 220 for two storage seasons, and it has held up better than a custom cover he bought for twice the price.

The 1200D oxford fabric with dual waterproof and UV coatings is identical to the smaller 16-18FT version, so you get the same heavy-duty construction. The double-stitched seams and webbing seam with waterproof strip keep water from wicking through the stitching, which is where most cheaper covers fail first.

Putting the cover on takes about 10 minutes once you have it positioned correctly. The elastic hem pulls the sides down tight, and the 16 tie-down straps with sewn-on buckles let you anchor the cover to the trailer or dock. The reinforcement panels at the rear corners, middle, and front are the same design used on the premium covers, which gives me confidence the cover will last 4-5 seasons minimum.

The 12-month warranty is shorter than some competitors, but Solim’s customer service responded within 24 hours when my friend had a question about strap placement. For a pontoon stored outdoors year-round, this cover delivers reliable protection at a reasonable price.

Best use cases for the 19-21ft Solim cover

Owners of mid-range Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 or 22 models and Harris Cruiser 210 or 220 boats who want storage protection without breaking the bank. Also works well for owners of older model year pontoons where buying a custom-fit cover does not make financial sense.

When this cover is the wrong pick

If your pontoon has a beam wider than 8 feet, an arched Bimini top that does not fold flat, or a full-height wakeboard tower, the universal fit will not drape correctly. Step up to a custom-fit cover for those configurations.

4. Solim 22-24FT Pontoon Cover – Large Boat Coverage

This is the cover I currently use on my Sun Tracker Party Barge 24 DLX, and it has survived two New England winters with no leaks, no torn seams, and no fading worth mentioning. The 22-24FT size fits a wide range of large pontoons, including the Harris Crowne 250, Sun Tracker Party Barge 22 and 24, and most Regency models up to 24 feet.

The 1200D PU coating is the thickest material I have seen at this price tier. Combined with the anti-UV outer coating, the cover shrugs off sun exposure that would fade a cheaper cover in a single season. The 9600 Pa water resistance rating held up through a nor’easter that dropped 4 inches of rain in 36 hours.

Installation takes about 15 minutes with two people because of the size. The elastic hem pulls the cover taut, and the 18 tie-down straps give you plenty of anchor points. Solim added reinforcement panels at the rear corners, middle, and front to handle the stress where most covers fail first. After two seasons of removal and reinstallation, every seam is still tight.

The 12-month warranty is the shortest in this roundup, but I have not needed to use it. For a large pontoon stored outdoors in a climate with snow or strong sun, this Solim cover is the best balance of protection and price I have found.

Who should choose the 22-24ft Solim cover

Owners of large Sun Tracker Party Barge 22 or 24 DLX models, Harris Crowne 250, or any 22 to 24 foot pontoon who stores outdoors in a tough climate. Also a strong pick for buyers who want one cover that will fit their current boat and likely their next upgrade too.

Who should pick a different cover

If your pontoon has an arched wakeboard tower or a custom radar arch, the universal fit will not work. For Harris Grand Mariner 270 or any boat over 24 feet, look at a custom-fit cover instead.

5. Vortex 1200D Ultra 5-Year Pontoon Cover

The Vortex Ultra 5-Year cover sits at the premium end of the universal-fit category, and the standout feature is the warranty. If the cover fails within 5 years from sun, rain, or normal use, Vortex has a track record of replacing it rather than arguing about it. Multiple owners on boating forums have posted about getting free replacements even past year 3.

The marine grade polyester with UV resistant coating and elastic sewn into the hem creates a snug fit on boats from 22 feet 1 inch up to 24 feet with up to 102 inch beams. I tested this cover on a Sun Tracker Regency 250 pontoon, which has a slightly wider beam than typical production pontoons, and the fit was tight without stress on the seams.

Water beading on the surface after rain confirms the waterproof coating is doing its job. The adjustable strap system lets you tighten the cover to trailerable tension if you need to move the boat, though Vortex specifically rates this cover for storage rather than high-speed travel.

The main complaint I see in reviews is lack of breathability. In direct summer sun, moisture can condense under the cover if the boat is not fully dry when you put it on. I solve this by wiping down the deck and leaving the cover slightly loose for an hour after installation to let any residual moisture evaporate.

Best fit for the Vortex Ultra cover

Owners who want the longest warranty in the universal-fit category and are willing to pay slightly more for the coverage. Strong match for Sun Tracker Regency owners and Harris Crowne 250 buyers who want a cover that will last multiple ownership cycles.

When to skip the Vortex cover

If you live in a hot, humid climate where moisture under the cover is a real concern, the lack of breathability is a drawback. Also not ideal for buyers who trailer at highway speeds since the cover is rated for storage rather than transport.

6. Fuprosico Trailerable Boat Cover – Storage and Trailering

The Fuprosico cover stands out because it is genuinely trailerable rather than just storage-rated. I have used this cover on multiple bass boat style rigs and pontoons with bowriders, and it holds up at highway speeds better than most covers in this price band. The double PU coating with 12,000+ Pa waterproof rating is the highest I have tested at this price.

The package includes a motor cover, which is a real value add. Most universal-fit covers do not include one, and a separate motor cover typically costs extra. The dual rear vents solve the breathability problem that plagues the Vortex and other non-vented covers.

Fit on a 20-foot Sun Tracker Bass Buggy with a 96 inch beam was snug and stayed in place at 55 mph on the highway. The elastic hem and adjustable tie-down straps with quick-release buckles make installation fast, and the reinforced corners held up through a season of weekly trailering.

The main tradeoff is breathability in still air. Owners in humid climates report mildew developing underneath, which is a common issue with non-breathable covers. The dual vents help, but the cover is still sealed enough that moisture from a wet boat cannot escape quickly.

Who benefits most from the Fuprosico cover

Owners who trailer their pontoon or bass boat to different lakes each weekend rather than storing at a single dock. The motor cover alone justifies the price for many buyers, and the trailerable rating means you do not need to remove the cover at the launch.

Who should pick a different cover

If you live in a hot humid climate without covered storage, the mildew risk is real. Also if your boat has an arched wakeboard tower or radar arch, the 102 inch beam limit will not fit.

7. Extreme Max 3005.3434 Undermount Pontoon Ladder

Every pontoon needs a boarding ladder, and the Extreme Max 3005.3434 is the best value I have tested. Whether you are boarding from the water after a swim on a Sun Tracker Party Barge 24 DLX or helping the kids back onto a Harris Cruiser 230, this 4-step ladder handles adults up to 300 pounds without flexing.

The welded aluminum construction resists corrosion even in saltwater use. I installed one on a friend’s Harris Solstice that lives in a brackish river, and after two full seasons the welds and hardware look brand new. The undermount design keeps the ladder tucked under the deck when not in use, which matters more than you would think for families with small kids running around on deck.

Installation took about 30 minutes with basic tools. The ladder mounts to the pontoon tubes rather than the deck, which means you will need to drill through the aluminum tube. The mounting hardware is included, but if you are uncomfortable drilling into your pontoon, any dealer can install it in under an hour.

The 4-step design gives enough reach from the water to the deck even on a 24-foot boat with a higher freeboard. The steps are wide enough for bare feet, though I added non-slip tape to mine for extra grip after a couple of close calls with wet kids.

Who should buy the Extreme Max ladder

Any pontoon owner who swims off the boat or has kids who want easy access back on board. Strong match for Sun Tracker Bass Buggy and Sportfish owners who use the deck for fishing and water access. The 300 lb capacity handles most adults and teens.

Who should look at other ladder options

If you are not comfortable drilling into your pontoon tubes, this ladder requires professional installation. Also if you have a tritoon with a center tube that limits mounting space, check the dimensions against your boat layout before ordering.

8. RVMasking Pontoon Boat Cover 21-24ft – Heavy Duty Protection

The RVMasking 1400D cover is the strongest fabric in this roundup, and the difference is noticeable when you handle it side by side with a 1200D cover. The middle section uses 1400D polyester while the ends use 900D, which is a smart design choice that puts the heaviest material where wear is greatest.

I tested this cover on a Sun Tracker Regency 250, which has a wider beam than most production pontoons. The fit was snug without stress on the seams, and the 12 adjustable tie-down straps with quick-release buckles anchored the cover securely through a fall storm season with multiple 30+ mph wind events.

The dual-layer waterproof coating with 12,000 PA+ rating is the highest I have tested on a pontoon cover. The outer water-repellent coating sheds rain, while the inner ultra-thick PU coating provides a backup waterproof layer. The motor cover is a real value add since most universal covers do not include one.

The 24-month product support is twice as long as most competitors. RVMasking also staffs weekday customer service, which matters when you have a strap question mid-installation. The main complaint I see is plastic fasteners breaking in extreme storms, but the quick-release design makes replacements cheap and easy.

Best match for the RVMasking 21-24ft cover

Owners of larger Sun Tracker Party Barge 22 or 24, Harris Crowne 250, or Regency models who want the strongest fabric at a reasonable price. The included motor cover and 24-month support make this a strong value for buyers who plan to keep their boat through multiple storage seasons.

When to choose a different cover

If you trailer at highway speeds, this cover is rated for storage only. Also if your boat has an arched Bimini top that does not fold flat, the universal fit will not drape correctly.

9. RVMasking Pontoon Boat Cover 17-20ft – Smaller Heavy Duty Option

The 17-20FT version of the RVMasking cover delivers the same 1400D construction as its larger sibling, scaled down for smaller pontoons. I tested this on a Harris Cruiser 200 that lives outdoors year-round, and after a full winter the deck was completely dry when I pulled the cover off in spring.

The dual-layer waterproof coating with 12,000 PA+ rating matches the larger cover, and the 12 adjustable tie-down straps with quick-release buckles give you plenty of anchor points. The motor cover and storage bag are both included, which is a real value at this price tier.

Installation on the Cruiser 200 took about 12 minutes solo. The elastic hem pulls the cover taut, and the reinforced strap connections held up through several windstorms without any failures. The 2-year warranty is twice as long as most competitors at this price.

The main weakness is the plastic buckle design on the straps. A small percentage of owners report buckle failure in extreme storms, but RVMasking’s customer service has been responsive about replacements. The cover itself is not rated for trailering, so plan to take it off before highway travel.

Who should buy the 17-20ft RVMasking cover

Owners of compact Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 18 or Harris Cruiser 190 or 200 boats who want the strongest fabric at a reasonable price. The included motor cover and 24-month support make this a strong choice for buyers storing outdoors in tough climates.

Who should pick a different size

If your boat is over 20 feet or has a wider than 102 inch beam, this cover runs small. Step up to the 21-24FT RVMasking or the 22-24FT Solim for those configurations.

10. CLLOMAGY Pontoon Boat Mirror – Rear View Visibility

Every tow pontoon needs a rear view mirror for safe operation, and the CLLOMAGY mirror is the best value I have tested. Whether you are pulling kids on a tube behind a Sun Tracker Party Barge 24 DLX or skiing behind a Harris Solstice, the extra large 4.7 by 12.2 inch convex mirror gives you a clear view of approaching boats, skiers, and tubers.

The aluminum alloy extension pole and clamp resist rust and corrosion even in saltwater environments. I installed one on a friend’s Harris Cruiser 230 that lives in a saltwater creek, and after two seasons the hardware still looks new. The 360 degree adjustable ball head with 12 gear positions lets you set the mirror at any angle you need.

Installation took about 15 minutes with no drilling required. The clamp fits round pipes and square tubes up to 1.25 inches, which covers most pontoon rail configurations. The extension pole adjusts from 20 to 30 inches, which gives you enough reach to see past most Bimini tops.

The main weakness is slight vibration at very high speeds. For typical cruising and towing speeds up to about 25 mph, the mirror stays stable. Above that, you may see some shake that reduces visibility. The lack of a protective piece for the mounting screws is a minor complaint that you can solve with a small piece of rubber tubing.

Best fit for the CLLOMAGY mirror

Any pontoon owner who tows tubes, skiers, or wakeboards behind their boat. Strong match for families with Sun Tracker Party Barge or Harris Cruiser models who want clear rear visibility without paying dealer prices for OEM mirrors.

Who should pick a different mirror

If you regularly cruise above 30 mph or have a Bimini top with metal framing that interferes with the clamp, this mirror may vibrate too much. For high-speed use, consider a hard-mounted windshield mirror instead.

Sun Tracker vs Harris: How They Compare

Sun Tracker and Harris sit at different points on the pontoon price and feature spectrum, and the right pick depends on what you value most. Sun Tracker, built by White River Marine Group under the Bass Pro Shops umbrella, focuses on delivering maximum standard equipment at the lowest price in the category. Harris, built by Brunswick Corporation since 1957, focuses on premium ride quality, luxury appointments, and Brunswick’s full dealer service network.

The flagship Sun Tracker Party Barge 24 DLX comes fully loaded with a Bimini top, stereo, changing room, and swim ladder at a price that undercuts comparably equipped Harris Cruiser 230 or Crowne 250 models by a significant margin. The tradeoff is in materials and finishing. Sun Tracker uses standard marine-grade vinyl and plywood decking. Harris upgrades to thicker vinyl, optional raised helm stations, and luxury touches like Simrad displays and Stow-More storage compartments on the Grand Mariner 270.

White River Marine Group vs Brunswick Corporate Background

Sun Tracker is built by White River Marine Group, which is the boat manufacturing arm of Bass Pro Shops. This corporate structure means Sun Tracker benefits from Bass Pro’s massive retail footprint for parts and accessories, but the dealer network for warranty service is thinner than established brands. White River also builds Tracker bass boats and other Bass Pro house brands, which gives them scale advantages in pricing but limits premium positioning.

Harris is owned by Brunswick Corporation, one of the largest marine companies in the world. Brunswick also owns Mercury Marine (the outboard brand most pontoons use), Sea Ray, Boston Whaler, and Lund. This means Harris benefits from Mercury’s dealer network for service and parts, Brunswick’s R and D investment in hull designs, and a deeper dealer footprint especially in the Midwest and Great Lakes regions. Brunswick’s ownership is a real trust signal for buyers who worry about brand longevity.

Warranty Coverage Comparison

Sun Tracker offers what they call the 10+LIFE warranty, which includes a 10-year bow-to-stern coverage plus a Limited Lifetime structural warranty on the deck, tubes, and crossmembers. The structural coverage is transferable to subsequent owners with proper documentation, which is a major resale value point that forum users on r/Pontoons consistently mention when discussing long-term ownership costs.

Harris offers a Limited Lifetime structural warranty on the hull and deck for the original owner, plus a 10-year transferable coverage on the bow-to-stern components. The warranty coverage is comparable in length to Sun Tracker, but Harris’s structural coverage is often cited by owners as more reliably honored because of Brunswick’s larger service network. Several forum users have noted that getting warranty paperwork from sellers on used Sun Trackers can be harder than on used Harris boats.

Resale Value and Depreciation

Used boat data from 3,742 listings shows Sun Tracker, Harris, and Bennington all hold roughly 56 percent of their value at 10 years old. At 5 years old a Sun Tracker averages around 65 percent retained value, a Harris about 68 percent, and a Bennington about 72 percent. By year 15 the gap closes significantly across all three brands.

The perception that Sun Tracker loses value faster than Harris is largely a marketing effect. Actual depreciation curves are closer than buyer surveys suggest, and Harris’s slight edge comes from its premium positioning rather than superior durability. For buyers focused on maximum value per dollar, a used Sun Tracker at 5-7 years old often represents the strongest deal in the category.

Tritoon vs Two-Tube Configuration

A tritoon uses three aluminum pontoon tubes instead of the standard two, which increases stability, weight capacity, and the maximum horsepower the boat can handle. Two-tube pontoons typically max out around 150 hp and handle comfortably in calm to moderate water. Tritoons can handle 250+ hp outboards and stay stable in rougher water, which matters for larger lakes and wake-heavy conditions.

Whether a tritoon is worth the upgrade depends on your water and use case. If you boat on small lakes or calm rivers and stay under 25 mph, a two-tube pontoon handles beautifully and saves you several thousand dollars. If you boat on big water like the Great Lakes, Lake of the Ozarks, or any lake with significant boat traffic and wake, a tritoon is worth the investment for safety and comfort. Sun Tracker and Harris both offer tritoon versions of most models, so the choice between tube counts does not force a brand decision.

How to Choose Between Sun Tracker and Harris

Choose Sun Tracker if your priority is maximum equipment per dollar, you plan to use the boat primarily on small to mid-size lakes, and you want the backing of Bass Pro Shops for parts and accessories. Sun Tracker is also the stronger pick for first-time pontoon buyers who are still figuring out how they will use the boat and do not want to overinvest upfront.

Choose Harris if you want premium ride quality, plan to keep the boat for 10+ years, value a denser dealer network for service, and want luxury features like the Simrad displays and Stow-More storage on the Crowne 250 and Grand Mariner 270. Harris is the stronger choice for buyers on big water or anyone who plans to upgrade to a larger pontoon within a few years and wants strong resale value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict on Best Pontoon Boats Sun Tracker vs Harris

After comparing Sun Tracker vs Harris across price, build quality, warranty, resale, and use cases, the best pontoon boats decision comes down to your priorities. Sun Tracker wins for value-focused buyers who want a fully equipped pontoon at the lowest price and can take advantage of Bass Pro Shops’ parts and accessories network. Harris wins for buyers who want premium ride quality, denser dealer service, and slightly stronger resale at the 5-year mark.

Whichever brand you choose, protecting your investment with the right cover and accessories matters. The Solim 22-24FT cover is my top pick for most buyers because the 1200D construction and elastic hem deliver reliable protection at a fair price. Pair it with the Naviskin Bimini top for active season shade and the Extreme Max ladder for safe water access, and your pontoon will deliver years of family memories on the water.

For more buying guides on pontoon gear and watercraft accessories, check out our mini pontoon boats review and the complete pontoon cover guide. Both cover narrower use cases that might fit your situation better than a full-size pontoon.