New Wave Docks' Modular Pontoon Craft

Ten floats and six aluminum rails form the base.

Anyone interested in an affordable high-weight capacity pontoon-style boat, and who also likes DIY projects, should consider the modular pontoon system from New Wave Docks, a well-known roto molding company located in 100 Mile House, B.C.

I took delivery of two of these systems from New Wave Docks and will chronicle their evolution as they transform from pieces of aluminum framing with floats and bow/stern pieces into sturdy boats that will deliver many years of service and fun.


Incredibly, this 18-foot craft will carry 4,500 pounds on deck at 50% submersion -- that's a lot of weight! They move along very nicely with just 9.9-25 HP high thrust Yamaha or Merc Bigfoot outboards (See Merc 9.9 pulling two boats: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhKE5ApYpgQ ).

Note the unique contour of the float bottoms; the shape
improves strength and movement through water.

Designed for do-it-yourselfers, the floats have an ingenious contoured shape. The arched keel design both improves strength and mobility through water. The floats are extra thick medium density poly that can take a blow from a hammer and suffer no damage. With 10 floats in the system, they are virtually unsinkable.

You can get the boat pre-assembled or take delivery and assemble yourself. The floats come with predrilled flanges so they easily attach to framing which also comes pre-drilled and clearly marked. It took two of us about two hours to put one together.

Once bolted together from the bottom skids to the aluminum top framing, it's fun time as you get to decide on decking and the stuff you see and use every day on the water. Decking can be anything you want: 3/4-inch plywood sealed with deck coat, composite deck lumber, flo-thru plastic, even cedar decking if you like.

You can make your own handrails system and bimini top frame very economically using 1 1/4-inch electrical metal conduit and 90 degree sweeps for corners.

Electrical conduit makes strong, affordable handrails

You can see two twin console units in the photo at left, one to house the steering and controls; the second is for the first mate.

You can get a base unit for $5,995 picked up at the factory. Add about $1,000 more for delivery to the West Kootenay. This means that you can be on the water in the $12,000 range and still get good quality decking, handrails, furniture, and top. The great thing about these boats is how durable they are and easy to work on. Everything is accessible and logical. With six 1,400 pound floats and four more bow and stern pods, they are virtually unsinkable.

3/4-inch rubber mats on floor and 2" x 10" plastic lumber
on bow deck and side bumpers make it indestructible 

The floats are 5/16th inch poly that you can bash with a hammer and not dent. If you ever puncture one by hitting a sharp rock or deadhead at speed, you can easily and inexpensively plastic weld a repair -- try that with aluminum. And, the medium density poly will never rust or corrode, even if used in salt water.

You can certainly buy a glitzy pontoon with vinyl everywhere for flooring and furniture, but if you look at them after a few years, they start to look pretty tired. Put regular patio furniture on these that you can remove over winter, or even replace as you want, they don't have to be screwed down. Maximum flexibility is appealing.

Contact www.newwavedocks.com