The Ultimate Guide to Boating with Pets

Welcome to The Floating Life—where even the furry crewmates get to feel the wind in their whiskers.

Boating isn’t just for humans. Whether you’ve got a water-loving retriever, a chill cat with boat shoes (yes, those exist), or a parrot who won’t stop singing Jimmy Buffett, your pontoon can be their paradise too.

But before you hoist anchor and shout “Who’s a good buoy?”—let’s take a moment to imagine what your dog might be thinking while out on the water:

Things Your Dog Would Say on a Boat (If They Could Talk):

• “I call this seat. Forever.”
• “Did you bring snacks? Did you bring snacks? Did you—OH MY GOSH A DUCK.”
• “I licked the anchor. Is that okay?”
• “The wind tastes like adventure. And bugs.”
• “Permission to pee on the captain’s chair?”

Now that we’re all emotionally prepared, let’s talk logistics. Here’s how to make sure your pet stays safe, comfy, and thrilled to be part of the crew.

​1. Know Thy Pet: Is Your Animal a Natural Boater?
Not all pets are ready to be the next Skipper Flufferson. Ask yourself:

• Do they enjoy car rides or the outdoors?
• Can they swim—or do they panic in water?
• Are they calm around noise, wind, and motion?

Start with short trips and shallow waters before going full pontoon adventure. If they panic every time you lift a cooler lid, maybe ease into it.

​2. Get a Pet Life Jacket
Even if your dog is a champion swimmer, they’ll tire quickly in open water—and not all pets can swim well.
Look for:

• A snug fit with adjustable straps
• A handle on the back to lift them easily
• Bright colors or reflective strips for visibility

And yes, they’ll give you the look. But they’ll get over it once they realize it's fashion and function.

​3. Shade, Hydration, Repeat
Montego Bay pontoons offer roomy decks and shade options—use them.
Pets overheat quickly on sunny decks, especially small breeds or those with thick fur.
Pack:

• A bowl of fresh water
• A shaded area or canopy
• Cooling towels or mats
• Treats (for bribery and morale)

If you’re hot, they’re definitely hot. Keep the snacks flowing and the vibes chill.

​4. Bathroom Breaks: Plan Ahead
You know your pet’s schedule. Just don’t assume they’ll hold it out of respect for your pontoon’s flooring.
Before boarding:

• Go for a potty walk
• Bring disposable pet pads or a portable patch if needed
• Keep cleaning supplies on board—just in case

Deck accidents make for great stories but not great memories.

​5. Keep ‘Em Secure While Cruising
A free-roaming pet on a moving boat is adorable… and risky.
Tips:

• Keep small pets in crates while cruising
• Use a harness and leash—even on deck
• Never let pets sit on the bow or swim platform while under power

Safety first, chaos second.

​6. Watch the Water: Swimming Smarts
Letting your dog jump in and fetch a floating toy = adorable.
Letting them chase a duck across the marina = chaos.

• Only allow swimming in safe, calm areas
• Rinse them off after a swim to remove algae or boat gunk
• Always supervise—pets can drift faster than you think

Pro tip: Teach them how to use your boarding ladder or ramp to get back on easily.

7. Pack Their Boat Bag
Yes, your pet needs their own bag. They’re practically the Admiral.
Include:

• Leash/harness
• Life jacket
• Collapsible bowls
• Food/treats
• Favorite toy
• Waste bags & cleanup gear
• Meds if needed
• A towel (for wet paws, drool, and dignity)

​8. Pet Personality Aboard: Which One Do You Have?
Every pet has a boating alter ego. Here’s who you might be sharing your pontoon with:
🐾 The Captain – Thinks they own the boat. Refuses to move from the helm. Probably wearing goggles.
🐾 The Lifeguard – Jumps off every 10 minutes. Needs to “save” every stick in the water.
🐾 The Landlubber – Hates water. Here for moral support and snack privileges only.
🐾 The Cool Cat – Actually a cat. Found the warmest seat and won’t be moving. Judging everyone.
🐾 The First Mate – Tiny but bossy. Sounds off at every passing bird, buoy, and breeze.
Tag your pet’s type. No shame. We love them all.

​Float Together. Stay Safe. Sniff Everything.
Boating with pets isn’t just doable—it’s delightful. With the spacious decks and smooth ride of a Montego Bay pontoon, your four-legged friend will be living their best lake life right alongside you.
Just remember: keep it cool, keep it safe, and never--ever—forget the treats.

​📸 Show Us Your #PontoonPaws Moments!
We want to see your furry boat crew in action!
🐾 Snap a pic
🛥 Tag us with #PontoonPaws #MontegoBayPontoons
🎉 Show off those wind-blown ears, salty snoots, and sun-drenched naps

You might just get featured on The Floating Life—and we promise not to judge if your dog’s wearing sunglasses and thinks they’re in charge.