Best Boats For Dogs

‍If you're a dog owner looking for the perfect boat for your furry friend, look no further! Check out our list of the best boats for dogs.

The best boats for dogs are Jet-Powered Pontoon, Barletta Lusso, Intex Mariner 4, Intex Seahawk 4, and Barletta Cabrio. These boats are the best for dogs because they offer ample space, stability, comfort, and safety features for your furry companion to enjoy boating adventures with you.

As a dog owner who loves boating, finding the right boat for my furry friend was quite challenging. But with some help from an expert and extensive research, I was able to discover the best boat for dogs that offer comfort, safety, and fun on the water. I'm excited to share my knowledge with fellow dog owners who want to enjoy boating adventures with their four-legged companions.

‍Best Boats for Dogs

When it comes to enjoying the open water, dog owners need to consider the best boat for dogs, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for their furry friends.

With a variety of dog breeds available, each with its unique features and requirements, choosing the perfect boat for your canine companion can make all the difference.

From spacious options for high-energy dogs to small boats for a little captain, read on to discover the ideal match for you and your canine companion.

With safety being a top priority, investing in the right boat that offers features such as enough space, non-slip surfaces, and accessibility options like ramps or platforms will ensure a smooth sailing experience and a pleasurable day on the water.

1. Jet-Powered Pontoon

The Jet-Powered Pontoon is suitable for accommodating certain dog breeds, from small dogs like Yorkshire Terriers to large water-loving dogs like Labrador Retrievers.

Specifications

One of the best boats for dogs is the Sea-Doo Switch Pontoon. These pontoons are available in three models, ranging from 13 to 19 webbed feet and a waterproof coat, with a starting price of $21,799. They come with ROTAX jet-drive power options from 100- to 230-horsepower.

Performance

The jet-powered pontoon boats provide excellent performance in terms of speed, maneuverability, and safety. As they are designed with dogs in mind, these boats ensure a smooth ride for your furry friend, whether they are a high-energy right dog like the Portuguese Water Dog or a more mellow companion like the Chesapeake Bay Retriever.

What Sets It Apart

Its pet-friendly features make the Sea-Doo Switch Pontoon a perfect boat dog. Barletta Pontoon Boats, for example, come standard with Doggie DockView, a see-through hard plastic screen on both the bow and port gates, which provides both safety and visibility for the captain and their canine companion.

Recent Updates

The 2023 Sea-Doo Pontoon lineup has introduced new adaptable and affordable models with a modern design, providing even more options for Small dog owners. The Switch Sport is a sportier option starting at $27,399, catering to those who seek a more adventurous boating experience with their working dogs.

Benefits

• Spacious, allowing for ample space for various dog breeds and their needs
• Pet-friendly features such as Doggie DockView screens
• Smooth ride for both the owner and their dogs
• Suitable if you own an Irish Water Spaniel or a Spanish water dog
• Good performance and maneuverability on the water

Drawbacks

• It’s expensive, depending on the model and options chosen
• It does not suit those looking for a more traditional pontoon experience

Who Should Buy It

Dog owners who are looking for a well-designed, pet-friendly boat that can accommodate their canine's size and needs should consider the Sea-Doo Switch Pontoon. These jet-powered pontoons are excellent boat dogs option, especially for those who own water dogs such as Irish Water Spaniels, Spanish Water Dogs, or Labradors.

Where to Buy It

The Sea-Doo Switch Pontoon and other pet-friendly pontoon boats can be purchased through their official dealers.

2. Barletta Lusso

When considering the best boats for dogs, the Barletta Lusso deserves mention. This pet-friendly pontoon boat provides the perfect platform for dog owners and their furry friends to enjoy the open water.

Specifications

Barletta Lusso is a top-quality pontoon boat designed with both luxury and functionality in mind. Depending on your preferences and needs, this boat is available in various sizes and layouts. The Lusso has basic triple 26” tubes, providing a stable ride on the water.

Performance

The Barletta Lusso offers impressive performance for a pontoon boat. The Lusso is designed to keep riders dry even in choppy waters thanks to its double-stage lifting Wave spray rails and strakes on the outer part for referring traffic. The boat's full underbelly skin also runs from bow to stern for added protection.

What Sets It Apart

One feature that sets the Barletta Lusso apart is its Doggie DockView, a patent-pending color-coordinated, see-through hard plastic screen on both the bow and port gates. This design improves visibility for the captain and makes pet owners feel more at ease when their furry friends are aboard.

The Lusso also has slide-out pet bowls, making it convenient for dog owners to keep their pets hydrated and fed during boating trips.

Recent Updates

In recent years, the Barletta Lusso lineup has been updated to include the Meridian Lounge edition, which offers additional comfort features and an even more luxurious experience aboard the water.

Benefits

• Stable and comfortable ride on the water
• Pet-friendly features like Doggie DockView and slide-out pet bowls
• High-quality construction and top-notch materials
• Customizable layouts and sizes to fit your needs

Drawbacks

• Premium pontoon boat price point may not be affordable for all boaters
• Not suitable for those who prefer traditional fiberglass hull boats

Who Should Buy It

Barletta Lusso is ideal for dog owners who want a luxury pontoon boat experience without compromising pet-friendly features. The Barletta Lusso is also a great choice for those seeking a high-quality pontoon boat for entertaining and relaxing.

Where to Buy It

The Barletta Lusso can be found through Boat Trader or purchased directly from an authorized Barletta Pontoon Boats dealer.

3. Intex Mariner 4 Inflatable Boat

The Intex Mariner 4 Inflatable Boat is popular among boat dog owners due to its durability, stability, and ease of use. The boat is perfect for a fun day on the water with your furry companion.

Specifications

Measuring 12 ft 6 inches long and 57 inches wide, the Mariner 4 has a carrying capacity of 880 pounds, allowing you to comfortably accommodate your working breed and gear. The boat weighs 78 lbs and is made of SUPER TOUGH PVC material.

Performance

The Intex Mariner 4 features a hard floor system and an inflatable keel, providing a stable and smooth ride for you and your poodle breed as you navigate through the water. The inflatable keel also enhances the boat's tracking and performance.

What Sets It Apart

What sets the Intex Mariner 4 apart from other inflatable boats is its durability, with its three-layer SUPER TOUGH PVC material and practical features such as grab lines, grab handles, heavy-duty plastic flooring, and fishing rod holders.

Recent Updates

No recent updates for the Intex Mariner 4 Inflatable Boat.

Benefits

• Durable and sturdy construction with SUPER TOUGH PVC material
• Spacious enough for your dog's breed and gear
• Has space for your dog to swim
• Stable ride thanks to the inflatable keel and hard floor system
• Practical features for a day on the water

Drawbacks

• Relatively heavier for sailing compared to some other inflatable boats
• Potential difficulty in setting up the hard floor system for some users
• Can easily wear and tear

Who Should Buy It

Dog owners who enjoy water activities with their canine companions and are seeking a durable, reliable, and practical inflatable boat should consider the Intex Mariner 4 Inflatable Boat. Its capacity and stability make it suitable for most dog breeds, including Labrador Retrievers, Portuguese Water Dogs, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.

Where to Buy It

The Intex Mariner 4 Inflatable Boat can be purchased directly from the Intex official website.

4. Intex Seahawk 4 Inflatable Boat Set

The Intex Seahawk 4 Inflatable Boat Set is an excellent choice for those looking for the best boat for their furry friend. With a solid build, great performance, and numerous features, this boat is perfect for accommodating dogs of various poodle breeds, sizes, and energy levels.

Specifications

The Intex Seahawk 4 is an inflatable boat built to accommodate up to four people, with a maximum weight capacity of 1,050 lbs. It measures 11 ft. and 6 in. long, 4 ft. and 9 in. wide, and 1 ft. and 7 inches high. It features heavy-duty PVC material to resist any puncture and an I-beam floor used for rigidity.

Performance

This inflatable boat performs well on calm rivers and lakes, providing a comfortable ride for you and your canine companion. Its three air vessels ensure safety and stability, making it suitable for dogs of different breeds, like the high-energy Portuguese Water Dog breed or the mild-mannered Yorkshire Terrier.

What Sets It Apart

The Intex Seahawk 4 stands out for its ease of setup and transport. It comes with a high-output hand pump for quick deflation and inflation, as well as aluminum oars and motor mount fittings. This makes it particularly convenient for boat dog owners who want to spend less time on assembly and more time enjoying the water with their furry friends.

Recent Updates

While no major recent updates have been to the Intex Seahawk 4, the current model has consistently been praised for its durability, performance, and accessories included in the package.

Benefits

• Accommodates various dog breeds and sizes
• Durable and puncture-resistant material
• Easy inflation and deflation
• Comfortable and stable ride
• Has space for your dog to swim
• Accessories included for added convenience

Drawbacks

• Not suitable for rough waters and large waves as it may tend to smell bad
• It does not provide ample space for multiple large dogs

Who Should Buy It

Those seeking a stable and comfortable boat for dogs, ranging from the water-loving Chesapeake Bay Retriever to the small but energetic Labrador Retriever, will find the Intex Seahawk 4 perfect for their needs. It is ideal for recreational boating, fishing, or relaxing with your canine companion.

Where to Buy It

The Intex Seahawk 4 Inflatable Boat Set can be purchased from the official Intex website or online retailers like Amazon.

5. Barletta Cabrio

Are you looking for a dog-friendly boat option? The Barletta Cabrio is an excellent choice for dog owners who wish to bring their furry companion along for a boat ride.

Specifications

The Barletta Cabrio 24UE is a pontoon vessel built by Barletta, primarily used for day cruising, freshwater fish, and watersports. These boats are made with aluminum pontoons, usually equipped with an outboard motor, and run on gasoline.

Performance

The Barletta Cabrio provides a smooth ride for both passengers and dogs, thanks to its solid construction and responsive handling. It's a reliable option for a variety of activities, including fishing, strenuous swimming, and sailing, while offering enough space for both dogs and their owners.

What Sets It Apart

The Barletta Cabrio sets itself apart from competitors with its smooth ride, solid construction, and responsive handling, making it ideal for various activities. The spacious environment it offers for passengers and their dogs provides a unique advantage, ensuring an enjoyable experience for both owners and pets while prioritizing safety and comfort.

Recent Updates

The 2022 Barletta Cabrio is the new name of the formerly known C-class from Barletta. It showcases improvements in features and design, making it even more appealing to dog breed lovers and boat enthusiasts alike.

Benefits

• Spacious and comfortable for dogs and their owners to swim
• Doggie DockView provides enhanced visibility when docking
• A great boat dog option for a variety of water activities
• Suitable for many dog breeds, including Labrador Retrievers, Portuguese Water Dogs, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers

Drawbacks

• Not suitable for smaller dogs, as they may have difficulty navigating the pontoon vessel
• It’s not the best option for those looking for a high-performance speedboat.

Who Should Buy It

This boat is ideal for dog owners who desire a comfortable, safe, and pet-friendly boat for various recreational activities. If you have a water-loving dog breed, such as a Portuguese Water Dog breed or a Labrador Retriever breed, the Barletta Cabrio breed is undoubtedly worth considering as the perfect boat for you and your furry companion.

Where to Buy It

You can find a local dealer through the official Barletta website to purchase a Barletta Cabrio. They offer a variety of models and options to suit your specific needs, and you can also explore financing options if needed.

Customizable Dog-Friendly Boat Features

There's nothing quite like enjoying a day out on the water, and the experience becomes even more special when you can share it with your furry friend.

Thanks to advancements in boat design and technology, it's now easier than ever to make your boat a haven for your dog. Let's explore some of the coolest dog-friendly features that you can look for when buying or customizing your boat.

Built-In Pet Ramps

Say goodbye to the struggle of getting your dog on and off the boat! Modern boats can now be equipped with built-in pet ramps, allowing your four-legged companion to climb on board or splash into the water easily. These ramps are usually foldable, so they won't take up too much space when not used.

Doggy Life Jacket Storage Areas

Life jackets are a must for dogs on boats, and having a designated storage area makes it easy to grab one when needed. Some boats have specially designed compartments to store life jackets for various good guard dogs, ensuring they are always within reach and easily accessible.

Easy-to-Clean Flooring Materials

Let's face it, dogs can get messy, especially when they're having fun on the water. That's why it's essential to have flooring materials that are easy to clean and maintain. Look for boats with non-slip or with a wet dog area and waterproof surfaces that can be quickly wiped down or hosed off after a day of adventure.

Secure Pet-Friendly Zones

To keep your pup safe while on board, some boats now offer secure pet-friendly zones. These areas can be equipped with adjustable gates or barriers, so you can keep your dog safely contained while still allowing them to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.

Dog Lounging Areas

Just like us humans, dogs need a comfy spot to relax and unwind after a day of fun on the water. Look for boats that offer built-in dog beds, cushions, or lounging areas, so your furry friend can catch some Z's in style.

Remember, the key to a successful boating experience with your dog is ensuring their comfort and safety. So, when you're ready to hit the water with your best friend, remember these innovative dog-friendly boat features. Happy boating!