Pontoon Lifting Strakes: What You Need to Know

Last Updated on October 1, 2022

Summer is officially here, which means one thing – boat season! If you’re like most boat owners, you pull your pontoon out of storage and take it for a spin on the lake.

But before you hit the water, make sure your boat is in good condition by checking for damage and performing necessary repairs. One common repair that needs to be done on pontoons is replacing the lifting strakes.

Pontoon boats are unique in that they rely on two main sources of buoyancy for lift the pontoons and the lifting strakes. The pontoons create air pockets underneath the boat, while the lifting strakes force water.

If you’re in the market for a new pontoon boat, you may be wondering if you need to add lifting strakes. Pontoon lifting strakes provide stability and create a smoother ride, making them a popular addition for many boaters.

Here’s what you need to know about pontoon lifting strakes and how they can improve your boating experience.

What is Pontoon Lifting Strakes?

Pontoon lifting strakes are an essential piece of equipment for any pontoon boat owner. Pontoon boats are susceptible to waves and winds, which can cause the boat to capsize or take on water. Lifting strakes are installed along the sides of the pontoon boat and help to increase the boat’s stability in rough conditions.

Additionally, lifting strakes can help to increase the pontoon boat’s speed and fuel efficiency. Pontoon boats with lifting strakes installed typically have a higher resale value than those without them. As a result, pontoon lifting strakes are a wise investment for any pontoon boat owner.

Lifting strakes are a type of hull feature that is typically seen on pontoon boats. They are usually installed near the waterline and their purpose is to help the boat lift out of the water when underway. This can improve the performance of the pontoon boat, as well as make it easier to maneuver. However, over time

How Much Do They Cost And Where Can You Buy Them?

When it comes to pontoon lifting strakes, there are a few things you need to take into account. First of all, the type of pontoon boat you have will play a role in how much the strakes will cost. In addition, the size and weight of your boat will also be factors to consider.

You can typically find pontoon lifting strakes at most marine supply stores, and the cost will vary depending on these factors. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 for a good quality set of strakes.

If you have a larger or heavier pontoon boat, you may need to purchase multiple sets of strakes in order to provide adequate support. But overall, pontoon lifting strakes are a relatively inexpensive way to improve the performance of your boat.

Just like anything else, the cost of pontoon lifting strakes will vary depending on the brand, material, and style. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for a good quality set of strakes. The best way to find the right set of strakes for your pontoon boat is to shop around and compare prices at different retailers.

You can also check online forums and discussion boards to see what other pontoon boat owners recommend. There are a few different places where you can buy pontoon lifting strakes. Many marine supply stores carry them, and you can also find them online from various retailers.

When shopping online, be sure to read the reviews before making your purchase to ensure that you’re getting a good quality product. Pontoon lifting strakes are an essential piece of equipment for any pontoon boat owner. They help to keep your boat level in the water, which can improve both performance and safety.

How To Install Pontoon Lifting Strakes?

Installing pontoon lifting strakes is a relatively easy process that can be completed in a few hours. The first step is to clean the surface of the pontoon where the strakes will be installed.

Next, measure and mark the location of the holes for the strakes. It is important to make sure that the holes are evenly spaced and aligned with the existing сhannels on the pontoon. Once the holes are marked, use a drill to create pilot holes for the screws.

Finally, insert the screws into the holes and tighten them until the strakes are securely in place. With just a few simple steps, you can significantly improve the performance of your pontoon boat.

Pontoon Boat Performance With Strakes Installed

It is well known that strakes improve the performance of pontoon boats. By adding hydrodynamic lift and reducing drag, strakes can help pontoon boats achieve faster speeds and better handling. Many boat manufacturers now offer strakes as an optional upgrade, and many boaters are choosing to install them on their boats.

While strikes can have a significant impact on performance, it is important to note that they also have some drawbacks. For example, strakes can increase noise levels and make the boat harder to dock. In addition, strakes can also add weight to the boat, which may impact fuel efficiency.

Overall, however, the benefits of strakes far outweigh the drawbacks, and installing them is a great way to improve the performance of your pontoon boat.

Pros and Cons of Pontoon Lifting Strakes

Pontoon lifting strakes are vertical fins attached to the sides of a pontoon boat that are designed to improve the vessel’s performance. There are several different types of lifting strakes available on the market, and each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

One type of lifting strake is known as a “reverse curve” design. This type of strake is curved in such a way that it allows the water to flow more smoothly over the top of the pontoon, which reduces drag and improves fuel efficiency.

However, reverse curve strakes can also be more difficult to install and may require special tools. Another type of lifting strake is known as a “straight” design. Straight strakes are easier to install than reverse curves takes but do not provide as much of a performance benefit.

In addition, some straight strakes are known to create additional noise when the pontoon is underway. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to install pontoon lifting strakes will depend on the intended use of the vessel and the preferences of the owner. However, regardless of which type of strake is chosen, they can all help to improve the performance of a pontoon boat.

Conclusion

Pontoon boat lifting strakes are a great way to improve the performance of your pontoon boat. By adding lifting strakes, you can achieve better handling and speed while also enjoying a smoother ride.

If you’re looking for an easy way to improve your pontoon experience, investing in some lifting strakes is definitely the way to go. Have you ever tried using pontoon boat lifting strakes? What was your experience like?