Trying to choose between a pontoon and a runabout on Lake Wallenpaupack?

The best option depends on what kind of day you want. A pontoon is usually better for relaxing, cruising, swimming, and bringing a bigger group. A runabout is better if you want more speed, sharper handling, and a more active day built around tubing or kneeboarding.

Pontoons start from $345 for 4 hours on economy models, while runabouts start at $290 for 4 hours on economy models. Prices vary depending on type of boat chosen and how long you plan to rent it.

What’s the Difference Between a Pontoon and a Runabout?

Runabout: Best for Speed, Tubing, and a More Active Day

Runabouts are better for people who want a boat that feels faster and more sport-focused. These are fiberglass boats that hold up to 6 people. They are the better fit if you want higher power and speeds while pulling a tube or kneeboard. Their standard runabouts go up to 250 HP, while economy runabouts are listed at 115 HP.

Pontoon: Best for a Relaxed Lake Day

Pontoons are the more practical choice for families and mixed-age groups.Meant to cruise, relax, fish, or pull a tube, with capacities up to 10 people on standard and premium models and 8 people on economy pontoons. Pontoon lineup typically ranges from 70 HP on economy models to 150 HP on premium models.

A pontoon fits the kind of lake day a lot of families actually want: cruising, anchoring, swimming, and hanging out. A runabout is better when the ride itself is part of the fun.

What’s the Better Value?

For a bigger group, a pontoon usually gives better value because you can spread the cost across more people and get more room to actually hang out.

For a smaller group that wants tubing, speed, and a more fun-to-drive boat, the runabout may be the better buy even though it seats fewer people.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose a pontoon if you want:

✔ Room for more people

✔ A family-friendly setup

✔ Cruising, swimming, and relaxing

✔ Space for coolers and bags

✔ A slower, easier lake day

Choose a runabout if you want

✔ More speed and power

✔ Tubing or kneeboarding

✔ A smaller-group rental

✔ A more active day on the water

✔ A boat that feels sportier to drive

New to boating on the lake? Read our Lake Wallenpaupack boat safety tips.