When it comes to choosing the right pontoon boat, two names that frequently come up are Bentley and Bennington. Both brands are well-regarded for their design, performance, and versatility on the water. However, each caters to a different kind of boating enthusiast, making it essential to understand the unique strengths and features of both Bentley and Bennington pontoons.
In this detailed comparison, we will break down the key aspects that boat buyers care about most—build quality, design, performance, comfort, price, and more.
Overview of Bentley and Bennington
| Feature | Bentley Pontoons | Bennington Pontoons |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Budget-conscious buyers looking for solid performance without breaking the bank. | Luxury and performance-oriented buyers who prioritize premium features and materials. |
| Build Quality | Strong, durable aluminum build with value-focused design. | Premium materials with industry-leading craftsmanship and luxurious touches. |
| Price Range | $30,000 – $70,000 | $50,000 – $150,000+ |
| Performance Packages | Basic performance upgrades for improved speed and handling. | Extensive performance options including the Elliptical Sport Package (ESP) for enhanced speed and stability. |
| Warranty | Limited warranty (structural and 5-year coverage). | 10-year bow-to-stern warranty, limited lifetime structural warranty. |
Build Quality and Design
Bentley Pontoons
Bentley pontoons are known for offering good value at a more affordable price point. Their boats are built using .090-gauge aluminum for the pontoon tubes, and they offer a solid level of durability. Bentley also includes features like powder-coated rails and basic vinyl seating for added longevity, especially for those who want a reliable boat without the premium price tag.
Bentley’s pontoon models, such as the Bentley Elite and Bentley Encore, are functional and aesthetically pleasing but lean more toward practicality rather than luxury. While they might not offer as many premium materials as higher-end brands, their durability and ease of maintenance make them a popular choice for families and budget-conscious boaters.
Bennington Pontoons
On the other hand, Bennington pontoon boats are designed with luxury and performance in mind. They use thicker aluminum panels for structural strength and incorporate upscale materials throughout the design. Features like diamond-stitched upholstery, multi-layered paints, and customized deck layouts showcase Bennington’s attention to detail and craftsmanship.
The Bennington Q Series and L Series exemplify Bennington’s focus on premium design, offering superior comfort, modern styling, and luxury touches like teak flooring and upgraded sound systems.
| Feature | Bentley Pontoons | Bennington Pontoons |
|---|---|---|
| Build Material | .090-gauge aluminum | Thicker aluminum panels, premium paints |
| Interior Design | Functional vinyl seating, basic trims | Diamond-stitched upholstery, high-end trims |
| Deck Layout | Standard, practical layouts | Customizable luxury layouts |
| Customization Options | Limited customization | Extensive customization available |
Performance and Handling
Bentley Performance
Bentley pontoon boats come with basic performance features designed to offer smooth cruising. Their Tri-Toon package is an affordable upgrade that improves speed, handling, and buoyancy by adding a third pontoon to the boat. While Bentley boats perform admirably for casual cruising, they are not typically equipped for high-speed performance or watersports.
- Horsepower Options: Bentley offers modest engine options, typically ranging from 90 HP to 300 HP, depending on the model and upgrades.
Bennington Performance
Bennington is well-known for its performance-oriented boats. Their Elliptical Sport Package (ESP) delivers superior handling at high speeds, enhanced stability, and a smoother ride. With the addition of lifting strakes and underskinning, Bennington pontoons can handle rougher waters and more dynamic boating activities, such as waterskiing or wakeboarding.
- Horsepower Options: Bennington offers a wide range of engine options, some models supporting up to 600 HP, making it ideal for boaters who prioritize power and speed.
| Performance Feature | Bentley Pontoons | Bennington Pontoons |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | 90 HP – 300 HP | 115 HP – 600 HP |
| Performance Upgrades | Tri-Toon package | Elliptical Sport Package (ESP), R Series, and S Series performance packages |
| Top Speed | Moderate cruising speeds | High speeds, optimized for watersports |
| Handling | Smooth handling for casual cruising | Superior handling, even in rough conditions |
Comfort and Amenities
Bentley Comfort
Bentley pontoons are comfortable and practical but don’t emphasize luxury as much as Bennington. Their seating is durable and designed for easy maintenance, making it a good choice for families who want a hassle-free boating experience. Bentley offers practical features like removable tables, Bimini tops, and ample storage space.
However, Bentley’s models lack some of the high-end amenities that you might find in more premium brands. If you prioritize comfort but don’t require top-of-the-line features, Bentley pontoons will suit your needs.
Bennington Comfort
Bennington takes comfort to another level. With plush seating, premium upholstery, and customizable layouts, their boats feel like a luxury suite on the water. Bennington models often come with features such as extended lounges, ambient LED lighting, and high-end sound systems. The seating is ergonomically designed for maximum comfort, with additional features like reclining seats and adjustable backrests.
| Comfort Features | Bentley Pontoons | Bennington Pontoons |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Quality | Basic vinyl seating | Diamond-stitched, plush upholstery |
| Entertainment Options | Basic sound system | Premium sound systems, multiple speaker options |
| Extra Amenities | Bimini tops, removable tables | Extended lounges, LED lighting, luxury flooring |
Price and Value
Bentley Pricing
One of the biggest selling points for Bentley pontoon boats is their affordability. With starting prices as low as $30,000 and reaching up to $70,000 for more upgraded models, Bentley offers an excellent entry point for buyers who want a quality boat without spending a fortune. This makes Bentley a great value-for-money brand, especially for families or new boaters.
Bennington Pricing
Bennington, on the other hand, falls into the premium category. Their boats can start around $50,000 for base models, but fully equipped luxury options can easily reach over $150,000. This higher price reflects the premium materials, advanced performance packages, and luxury features that Bennington offers.
| Price Range | Bentley Pontoons | Bennington Pontoons |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $30,000 | $50,000 |
| High-End Models | $70,000 | $150,000+ |
| Best For | Budget-conscious buyers | Luxury and performance-focused buyers |
Warranty and Customer Support
Bentley Warranty
Bentley offers a standard warranty with limited lifetime structural coverage and a 5-year warranty for other parts of the boat. This warranty is adequate for most buyers, though not as extensive as some higher-end brands.
Bennington Warranty
Bennington leads the industry with its 10-year bow-to-stern warranty and a limited lifetime structural warranty. This warranty covers a wide range of repairs and replacements, offering more peace of mind for buyers investing in a luxury pontoon.
| Warranty Feature | Bentley Pontoons | Bennington Pontoons |
|---|---|---|
| Structural Warranty | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime |
| Parts Warranty | 5-year coverage | 10-year bow-to-stern |
Final Verdict: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between Bentley and Bennington largely depends on your budget and what you prioritize in a pontoon boat.
- Choose Bentley if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still offers solid build quality, decent performance, and practical features. Bentley pontoon boats are ideal for families, first-time buyers, or those who want a reliable pontoon without the high-end price tag.
- Choose Bennington if luxury, premium materials, and superior performance are your top priorities. Bennington pontoons are perfect for boaters who want a stylish, high-performing boat with plenty of customizable options and long-term durability.
Both Bentley and Bennington offer exceptional value within their respective price ranges, so no matter which brand you choose, you’ll be getting a high-quality pontoon boat built for enjoyment on the water.8
