When it comes to premium pontoon boats, two names stand out: Crest and Bennington. Both brands have built solid reputations in the boating industry for their quality craftsmanship, performance, and innovative designs. If you’re in the market for a new pontoon, understanding the differences between Crest and Bennington can help you make a more informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Crest Pontoons
Crest pontoons are known for their commitment to detail and durability. With more than 60 years of experience, Crest focuses on creating long-lasting boats that feature strong aluminum frames and high-quality welding. Each boat undergoes rigorous quality checks, ensuring that every model meets their high standards.
Crest’s design philosophy revolves around creating sleek, modern pontoons. Their boats offer comfortable layouts and a spacious deck, designed to maximize relaxation and entertainment on the water. Popular models such as the Crest Classic and Crest Continental showcase their attention to comfort, luxury, and functionality.
Bennington Pontoons
Bennington pontoons are often regarded as the luxury brand in the pontoon market. Their boats are not only known for premium materials but also for elegant designs that offer a more upscale look and feel. Bennington uses thicker, more durable cross-channels in its pontoons, which adds to the overall structural integrity and longevity.
From the interior design to seating comfort, Bennington sets a high bar. Models like the Bennington Q Series and R Series are packed with luxurious features such as plush seating, top-tier sound systems, and cutting-edge technology.
Performance
Crest Performance
Crest pontoons prioritize performance just as much as they do comfort. Their pontoons come with various performance packages such as the CPT Performance Package, which improves handling, increases stability, and offers better fuel efficiency. Crest’s SPS (Sport Performance System) includes enhancements like lifting strakes, underskinning, and upgraded horsepower capabilities, giving boaters an enhanced on-water experience.
Bennington Performance
Bennington pontoons are known for their exceptional handling, speed, and agility. The Elliptical Sport Package (ESP) is one of their most popular performance options, offering superior planing and greater stability at high speeds. Whether you’re cruising, towing skiers, or just relaxing, Bennington delivers a smooth, efficient ride with powerful engine options that can reach impressive top speeds.
Comfort and Amenities
Crest Comfort
Crest pontoons shine when it comes to comfort. Their seating is plush and ergonomically designed, perfect for long days on the water. Features such as adjustable lounge seating, customizable lighting, and ample storage space make Crest pontoons ideal for families and groups looking for a relaxing boating experience.
Additionally, Crest’s boats often come equipped with optional features such as high-end sound systems, advanced navigation tools, and elegant, easy-to-maintain flooring options.
Bennington Comfort
Bennington sets a high standard in comfort and luxury. With handcrafted furniture and high-end upholstery, their pontoons feel more like a luxury living room on the water. Bennington models also come with a range of customizable options, including upgraded sound systems, LED lighting packages, and extended loungers. The company’s dedication to comfort is evident across all its models, with features such as Diamond Stitched Upholstery and Swingback Lounges, which are designed to maximize relaxation.
Price and Value
Crest Pricing
Crest pontoons are considered mid-to-high range in terms of pricing. While they are not the cheapest pontoons on the market, they provide excellent value for the price, thanks to their build quality and feature set. You can typically expect to pay between $40,000 to $100,000, depending on the model and customization options.
Bennington Pricing
Bennington, known for luxury, tends to be on the higher end of the pricing spectrum. The premium materials, advanced features, and overall luxurious feel make Bennington pontoons more expensive than most. Bennington models can range from $60,000 to well over $150,000, especially when fully equipped with performance and luxury upgrades.
Warranty and Customer Support
Crest Warranty
Crest offers a competitive warranty package, including a limited lifetime structural warranty and a 5-year bow-to-stern warranty on most of its boats. This ensures that any manufacturing defects are covered and gives buyers peace of mind when purchasing a Crest pontoon.
Bennington Warranty
Bennington offers one of the best warranties in the pontoon industry, providing a 10-year bow-to-stern warranty and a limited lifetime structural warranty. This extensive coverage reflects Bennington’s confidence in the durability and reliability of their boats, making it an attractive choice for those looking for long-term peace of mind.
Which is Right for You: Crest or Bennington?
When comparing Crest and Bennington, it ultimately comes down to your priorities and budget.
- Choose Crest if you’re looking for a well-balanced mix of comfort, performance, and value. Crest pontoons offer durability and plenty of customization options without veering into the ultra-premium price range.
- Choose Bennington if you want the ultimate in luxury and are willing to invest more for top-tier materials, high-end design, and performance. Bennington pontoons offer unmatched comfort and premium features, making them the go-to option for those looking to cruise in style.
Both brands are leaders in the pontoon world, so whether you choose Crest or Bennington, you’re sure to enjoy a high-quality boating experience.