The beauty of pontoon boats is that with a little bit of creativity, time, and effort, you can really make yours stand out from the crowd. I am a firm believer that no one pontoon boat should be the same, and in fact, they should be an extension of your personality!

Here’s my list of 11 of the coolest accessories that every pontoon boat should need, many of which you might not have thought of before, or at the very least may not have put as much effort in as you could have.

Handy Hint: For more information on the best products to use with your boat, including more cool ideas then I recommend checking out my recommended gear section.

Idea 1: A Unique Name

I am sure your pontoon already does have a name, but does it really describe what your boat means to you? Chances are it still has the same name that the previous owner has if you bought it used. I’ve got a friend whose second-hand pontoon is named “Gloria” after the previous owner’s ex-wife. Not ideal!

Every pontoon on the water should have a name as this gives is a unique character and helps it to stand out from the crowd (click here for some great ideas).

There’s also a safety consideration to be had here too. Let’s say you run into trouble and radio for help. Having a clear and obvious name on the side of your boat is going to make your rescuers find you a lot quicker, especially if on a heavily trafficked water way.

Idea 2: Vinyl Graphics

The opportunities here are endless. Let your imagination run wild with vibrant and colorful designs wrapped around the side panels of your pontoon.

Example vinyl wrapping from the 619decals company.

Vinyl wraps and graphics don’t need to be expensive either and you can employ local companies to either come up with a design or print one of your own. For more information on how well vinyl wraps work on pontoon boats, take a look at this guide.

Idea 3: Docktail Boat Bar Caddy

If hosting parties on your pontoon boat is your thing, then this cool accessory is an absolute must. It’s a boat bar caddy that you can simply slot into your fishing rod holders, giving easy access to drinks for every passenger on board.

It works just like a mini-bar would and has room for most sizes of bottles and cups. What I really love about it is that it has a cutting board insert, so you can slice up lemons and prepare some much-needed cocktails on a hot and sunny day.

Go have a look on Amazon to see for yourself, including the outstanding reviews and ratings this cool pontoon boat accessory has received recently.

Idea 4: Sand Spike Beer Pong Table Set

Another option for the party people would be this awesome beer pong set. All you do is anchor up on the nearest beach, jump out, spike the game into the sand, and away you go.

It comes with two table tops and pockets to hold the glasses, and then two sand spikes to give it the stability required. You can go view on Amazon today.

If I need to explain what beer pong is, then this probably isn’t the accessory for you.

Idea 5: Collapsible Changing Rooms

Sometimes privacy is a must whilst on the water. Especially if you have kids or elderly relations who need to get changed in private on a heavily trafficked water way.

It’s possible to now buy collapsible changing rooms that you can pop-up in seconds on your boat, so your passengers can either use a portable toilet or get changed out of their swimming gear.

I have reviewed three of the best that money can buy, so go take a look now.

Idea 6: Under Deck Lighting

If you like to party, and really make an impression then LED under deck lighting could be just what you are looking for as a new and cool idea for your pontoon.

Once installed, the LED lighting can light your boat up like the 4th of July as you cruise around the lake.

Under deck lighting can be a little bit annoying to other water users, so it’s best used sparingly or on special occasions, but can make for a huge talking point with other boat owners.

Fitting LED lighting isn’t that hard either, and don’t use much power from your battery. You can view a light kit on Amazon that won’t cost the earth.

Idea 7: Inflatable Boat Slides

Do you have kids, or perhaps you are a big kid at heart yourself?

If you answer yes to either of those questions, then another cool idea for your pontoon boat is definitely an inflatable water slide. It will add hours and hours of fun to your latest trip and unbelievably they don’t cost that much either.

I’ve put together a guide on the best inflatable slides that you can set-u and attach to your pontoon in minutes. Go take a look, you won’t regret it!

Idea 8: Fishing Rod Storage

Do you fish on your pontoon boat? If you do then there’s nothing worse than your rods, pole, and equipment getting damaged when they aren’t being stored in your rod holders.

Thankfully there is a solution in the form of fishing rod storage solutions, some of which I have reviewed and rated so you don’t have to search out for the best ideas.

Idea 9: Speaker Upgrades

Bless the manufacturers of pontoon boats. They try to supply us with decent sound systems and speakers, but they don’t always hit the mark. And if they do, they will try to sting us a premium price to have them installed at point of purchase.

Well, you can forget that, and instead buy your own powerful speakers and fit them easily enough. What are the best marine grade speakers for a pontoon? I’ve done the hard work for you again, so go take a look here.

Idea 10: Inflatable Tubes

Another water sports suggestion here, with some outstanding 4-person inflatable tubes. I’ve reviewed and rated the best on market, and only recommend those which I believe are safe for adults and children to use.

If you aren’t pulling inflatable tubes from your pontoon boat, then you are missing out on what is one of the coolest things you can possibly do when out on the water.

Idea 11: Baby Boat Seats

Pontooning is great for all ages, so why not start them young? If you have a baby in your family, or a passenger you’ve invited aboard has a young child, then this baby boat seat on Amazon could be just the right cool accessory for you.

It’s made from marine-grade materials and can be hung under the Bimini in order to protect your little one from harmful sun. They one that I have linked to on Amazon is suitable for ages 6 to 36 months, but I believe the manufacturer also ranges similar seats for older children too.

The sooner you get your children used to being on the water the better, so don’t let age get in the way of getting them familiar with being on your pontoon boat.

Important Considerations for Optimal Pontoon Boat Accessories

Choosing the right accessories for a pontoon boat enhances the boating experience by adding functionality, convenience, and entertainment. To make informed decisions when outfitting a vessel, consider factors such as boat size, intended use, and budget.

Boat Size: The pontoon boat’s size is crucial in accessory selection. Striking a balance between adding features and maintaining adequate space for passengers and movement is essential.

  1. Small Pontoon Boats: Prioritize essential accessories that maximize available space and cater to specific needs, like compact storage solutions or foldable furniture.
  2. Large Pontoon Boats: Larger boats allow for more flexibility in choosing accessories, including extensive entertainment systems, full-size grills, or dedicated fishing stations.

Intended Use: The boat’s primary purpose should guide accessory selection. Fishing enthusiasts might prioritize rod holders and bait stations, while those using their boat for entertainment could focus on sound systems and seating options.

Budget: Budget constraints significantly influence accessory choices. Prioritize items offering the best value and utility, balancing wants and needs within budget to create an enjoyable experience without overspending.

Need More Ideas on Cool Accessories?

Don’t just stop with this list as there are so many different ways in which you can make your boat completely unique to you. Here are just a few more ideas on how you can customize your pontoon with some fresh ideas.