How shallow is safe?

[BandIIIII]

I tried to rent a pontoon and was told the river north was too shallow/stay to the south. I'm not sure if they're being cautious/insurance-wise? How shallow is safe for a pontoon?

I know nothing about pontoons, but it seems like the depth allowed should be pretty simple - look at the depth of the pontoons. Can't sink any deeper than that without water over the deck. But does the motor generally go lower?

Does a tri-pontoon go even more shallow than two?

Thanks, in advance. This is a pretty amazing and informative site. Just discovered it a couple days ago.

 

[rrhodes]

Re: How shallow is safe?

THe prop does extend under the logs but no more than other boats. If the water is too shallow for a pontoon then I would not take anything short of a jet driven boat.

 

[Olde Pharte]

Re: How shallow is safe?

Like RR stated, the skeg of the motor is the limiting factor. Also realize that the rental outfit may know about the river than you do and get tired of having their units tore up going into shallow water.

River bottoms have a tendency to shift over time and flow, making shallows even more hazardous.

Also realize that the water pump could suck up sand/silt causing internal damage.

Also read the rental contract, you may be responsible for any damages if you go into "restricted waters."

 

[chrisg]

Re: How shallow is safe?

Ha, that remindes me of time when I saw a pontoon loaded with people heading up the wrong finger of the river, they did not get far, and you could see they were all just standing around looking at what happened.

You dont want to have to tell everyone to get off the pontoon an push it back into deeper water.

If you see mud being spit up by the prop - its too shallow!