How to Handle Rough Waters in a Pontoon Boat

Rough water can come up quickly, especially on large lakes. If you're on a pontoon boat, unexpected waves can be intimidating. When you know how to handle choppy water, it's easier to get your crew safely to shore. At JC Sports, we're dedicated to pontoon safety; for more information, visit our location in Seneca, South Carolina, serving Greenville and Anderson.

Head for Calm Water Right Away

If you notice that the wind is picking up, don't hesitate — head for calmer waters right away. If you wait too long, you might find yourself in bigger waves than your boat can handle. Drive back to the dock, or find an area that's shielded from the wind, such as a cove or a bay.

Keep Passengers Calm and Safe

Windy and wavy conditions can cause your pontoon boat to behave erratically. If the water starts to get rough, ask everyone on the boat to put on their PFDs and sit down. That way, they're less likely to stumble or fall if the boat tilts. Make sure passengers and gear are evenly distributed around the boat to balance the load. If you have heavy items on board, put them in the rear of the boat; this can help keep the bow from diving into big waves.

Moderate Your Speed in Following Seas

When the wind is at your back, it's important to choose a speed that allows you to ride the waves. If you go too fast, you run the risk of burying the front of your pontoon boat into the next wave. In general, it's a good idea to travel at the same speed as the waves.

Turn with Caution

In high winds, take turns with extreme caution. If you go too fast, the wind can buffet the pontoons and cause you to tip. To boost stability, take wider, more gradual turns, and avoid sudden movements of the steering wheel.

Steer into the Waves at an Angle

If you need to travel against the direction of the waves, avoid taking them straight-on. Instead, steer into each wave at an angle. That way, the boat will move on its longest axis, and you can reduce stress on the frame. Again, avoid going too slow or too fast.

If you own a pontoon boat, it's always best to avoid rough water. When waves come up quickly, a calm head and careful driving can get you back to calmer seas without incident. For more information on pontoon safety, call us at JC Sports or stop into our location in Seneca, South Carolina; we proudly serve Greenville and Anderson.