How to Improve Fuel Efficiency in Your Pontoon

​We get it — when you’re out on the water, the last thing you want to think about is how much fuel you’re burning. You’re there to relax, soak up the sun, maybe show off a few cool moves at the sandbar — not stress over gas prices.
But here’s the thing: a few small changes can make a big difference in how far you can go on a tank (and how much cash you keep in your pocket for, you know, important stuff — like snacks and more floaties).

And the best part? You don’t have to be a mechanic or a boat whisperer to make it happen.
Grab a cold drink, kick back, and let’s talk about some easy ways to get the most out of your pontoon’s fuel tank — so you can spend more time cruising and less time fueling up.

Travel Light — Your Pontoon Will Thank You

​Listen, we all love being prepared. (Yes, even packing that third cooler “just in case.”)
But the heavier your boat, the more fuel it guzzles. It’s like trying to run a marathon with a backpack full of bowling balls — not exactly efficient.
Before you hit the water, do a quick sweep. Leave the extra junk at home, keep only what you really need, and lighten the load. You’ll glide across the water easier — and you might even impress your crew with your newfound speed.
Pro Tip: Don’t overfill your gas tank unless you’re planning a major expedition. Extra fuel = extra weight = extra gas burned. (It’s a vicious cycle.)

Love Your Engine (It’ll Love You Back)

​Think of your engine like a good friend — it needs a little TLC to stay happy.
Regular maintenance keeps everything running smooth and sipping fuel instead of chugging it.
Get in the habit of:

• Checking and changing the oil
• Swapping out spark plugs
• Keeping your propeller in good shape (no mystery dings allowed)

If you’re not a DIY type, no worries — your local marina can help. Trust us, a well-loved engine = way more time floating and way fewer “Ugh, why won’t it start?” moments.

Find Your Sweet Spot

​Sure, flooring it across the lake feels awesome — until you look at your gas gauge and realize you just shaved an hour off your day. The truth is, every boat has a "sweet spot" for cruising where it runs most efficiently.
Ease back a bit. Settle into that smooth, steady speed where your pontoon just hums along. You’ll still get where you’re going, you’ll still look cool doing it — and your fuel tank will thank you.

Trim for the Win

​Ever feel like your boat’s plowing through the water instead of gliding over it? That’s where trimming your motor comes in.
Playing with the trim angle helps your boat lift and skim across the surface instead of fighting against it — which means less drag, less effort, and yep, less gas burned.
It’s a small tweak with a big payoff. Plus, once you find that perfect trim setting, it feels like your boat got a little superpower.

Keep It Clean

Here’s something nobody tells you when you buy a boat:
Your pontoon’s bottom can turn into a floating science project if you don’t keep an eye on it.
Algae, barnacles, and other gunk create drag that slows you down and makes your engine work overtime. Give your boat’s underside a good scrub every now and then — it’s like giving it a breath of fresh air (but for boats).

Prop It Like It’s Hot

Your propeller might seem like a small piece of the puzzle, but it’s a big deal when it comes to fuel efficiency. The wrong prop (wrong size, wrong pitch) can make your engine strain harder than it needs to.
Talk to your dealer or marina about whether a different prop could help.
A simple swap could mean smoother rides, better speed, and fewer trips back to the dock for more gas.

Cruise Longer, Laugh Louder

Fuel efficiency isn’t just about saving a few bucks — it’s about stretching out your adventures and spending more time doing what you love. (And let's be honest, it’s a lot more fun to brag about your awesome day on the water than your latest fuel receipt.)
Montego Bay pontoons are built for comfort, performance, and maximum fun — and with a few easy tweaks, you’ll be making even more memories out there.
Now, go fill up the cooler (not the gas tank) and let’s hit the water. 🌊🎉