Pontoon boat lake

Recreational vessel with tubular floats, popular on Brazilian lakes and reservoirs for leisure and fishing.

About this subject

A pontoon boat is a flat-decked vessel supported by two or more cylindrical floats, known as pontoons. This design provides exceptional stability, safety, and load capacity, making it ideal for calm waters such as lakes, reservoirs, and slow-moving rivers. First developed in the United States in the 1950s, the concept quickly spread for leisure, sport fishing, and even utility transport in flood-prone areas.

In Brazil, pontoon boats are common on large artificial reservoirs like Furnas (Minas Gerais), Ilha Solteira (São Paulo), and the Itaipu Dam (Paraná). They also appear in the Amazon region, serving as ferries for remote riverine communities. Their versatility allows outboard or inboard motors, with moderate speeds up to 25 knots. Luxury models often feature kitchens, bathrooms, and covered seating areas with bimini tops.

The popularity of pontoon boats in Brazil grew significantly after the 2000s, fueled by tourism in cities such as Balneário Camboriú (Santa Catarina) and the lake region of Rio de Janeiro. Unlike speedboats or yachts, pontoons accommodate groups of up to 15 people, making them a frequent choice for parties, family outings, and fishing tournaments. Their shallow draft allows close approach to shores, exploring coves and river beaches.

Technical curiosities: most modern pontoons are built from marine-grade aluminum or fiberglass to resist corrosion. The floats are filled with polyurethane foam to maintain buoyancy even if punctured. In Brazil, rental fleets are dominated by brands like Windy, Regal, and Ferretti. Maintenance is simpler and cheaper than for comparable speedboats.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a pontoon boat and a speedboat?

A pontoon boat has cylindrical floats for stability and space, with lower speed (up to 25 knots). A speedboat has a V-hull for higher speed (over 40 knots) and agility, but less comfort in waves.

Do I need a license to drive a pontoon boat?

Yes, for engines over 15 HP, a Brazilian Navy Amateur Skipper or Sailor license is required, obtained after a theoretical and practical course.

Where can I rent a pontoon boat in Brazil?

Top locations include Furnas reservoir (MG), Ilha Solteira (SP), Itaipu lake (PR), and the Lagos region (RJ). Companies like Navegue and Locaboat offer hourly or daily rentals.