Top 10 Avalon Pontoon Models 2027

1. Avalon Excalibur 27

The Avalon Excalibur 27 ranks first because it is the most complete pontoon in the brand's catalog, balancing luxury, performance, and capacity with no real weak spot. It rides on a 27-foot 4-inch deck with triple 27-inch tubes, a 400-hp max rating, and a 62-gallon fuel tank. It seats up to 13 passengers with wraparound lounges, a powered Bimini, and a Simrad touchscreen helm.

This is for buyers who want a true luxury tri-toon and are willing to pay a starting MSRP of $98,500, with loaded trims pushing past $115,000. It trades away affordability and easy trailering for the largest footprint in the lineup, demanding a bigger tow vehicle and slip.

2. Avalon Catalina 25

The Avalon Catalina 25 ranks second because it delivers most of the Excalibur's flagship polish in a more manageable 25-foot 6-inch package. Available as a dual- or triple-tube with 25-inch tubes, the tri-toon is rated up to 300 hp and holds 54 gallons of fuel. It seats up to 12 passengers in deep, contoured lounges, with an available digital touchscreen, ski-tow pylon, and premium sound.

This is for families who want a high-end cruiser without the largest footprint, starting at $72,400. It trades away the Excalibur's 400-hp ceiling and 27-inch tubes for easier towing and slip fit. Compared to the Ambassador 27 below, it offers a more refined, less party-focused layout, but with a lower maximum passenger count and slightly less social deck space.

3. Avalon Ambassador 27

The Avalon Ambassador 27 ranks third because it is the entertainer's pontoon, built on a 27-foot deck with a tri-toon package of 25- or 27-inch tubes for stability under heavy loads. It carries a maximum rating up to 350 hp and holds roughly 62 gallons of fuel. The signature open, social floor plan seats up to 13 passengers, with an available center wet bar, rear-facing lounges, and a powered Bimini.

This is for large-crew entertainers who prioritize maximum deck space over sport-tuned handling, starting at $84,900. It trades away the Catalina's more refined luxury feel for a more party-oriented layout with a wet bar option. Compared to the Catalina 25 above, it offers more seating and a larger deck, but its heavier build and less sport-tuned nature make it less nimble on the water.

4. Avalon Catalina Platinum 25

The Avalon Catalina Platinum 25 ranks fourth because it takes the standard Catalina and adds the richest standard equipment on a 25-foot 6-inch deck, making it a turnkey luxury value. The Platinum tri-toon rides on 25-inch tubes with a max rating up to 300 hp and holds about 54 gallons of fuel.

This is for buyers who want a fully loaded mid-size luxury build without ticking dozens of option boxes, starting at $79,900. It trades away the Ambassador's larger social deck for a more premium, feature-rich experience in a smaller footprint. Compared to the Ambassador 27 above, it offers more standard luxury content and a lower price, but it has a lower passenger capacity and less overall deck space for entertaining.

5. Avalon GS 23

The Avalon GS 23 ranks fifth because it hits the lineup's most popular size at 23 feet 4 inches, offering a versatile do-everything package for families. Offered in dual- or triple-tube trim with 25-inch tubes, the tri-toon version carries a max rating up to 250 hp and holds about 43 gallons of fuel.

This is for all-around families who want one boat that does it all without committing to the largest hulls, starting at $58,500. It trades away the Platinum's standard luxury features for a more practical, versatile layout. Compared to the Catalina Platinum 25 above, it offers a lower price and easier handling, but it has less premium upholstery and a lower maximum horsepower rating, limiting its top-end performance.

6. Avalon LSZ Cruise 24

The Avalon LSZ Cruise 24 ranks sixth because it is the comfort-focused member of the value LSZ line, stretched to a 24-foot deck for real space at a friendlier price. It offers dual- or triple-tube layouts with 25-inch tubes, with the tri-toon rated up to 250 hp and a fuel capacity near 43 gallons.

This is for cruising families who want comfort-tuned seating without paying Catalina prices, starting at $52,900. It trades away the GS 23's sportier, more versatile layout for a more lounge-focused deck plan. Compared to the GS 23 above, it offers more seating capacity and a longer deck, but its upholstery is a notch below Platinum grade and it has fewer standard tech features.

7. Avalon Venture 24

The Avalon Venture 24 ranks seventh because it is the lineup's fish-and-cruise hybrid on a 24-foot deck, adding genuine fishing hardware to a family-friendly pontoon. Built in dual- or triple-tube trim with 25-inch tubes, the tri-toon carries a max rating up to 200 hp and holds about 43 gallons of fuel. The Venture adds a livewell, rod holders, and fishing-friendly bow seating while keeping enough lounge space for the family.

This is for anglers and families who fish in the morning and cruise in the afternoon, starting at $49,500. It trades away the LSZ Cruise's plush, lounge-focused seating for practical fishing features. Compared to the LSZ Cruise 24 above, it offers a lower price and dedicated angling equipment, but it has a lower maximum horsepower rating and less premium comfort for pure cruising days.

8. Avalon LSZ 22

The Avalon LSZ 22 ranks eighth because it is the smartest value in the lineup, offering the lowest entry price into genuine Avalon build quality. Riding on a 22-foot deck, it comes in dual-tube form with 25-inch tubes, carrying a max rating up to 150 hp and a fuel capacity near 30 gallons. Despite the entry price, it keeps Avalon's heavy-gauge tubes, the lifetime structural warranty, and quality vinyl seating for up to 10 passengers.

This is for first-time buyers who want Avalon quality for the least money, starting at $42,900. It trades away the Venture 24's fishing features and larger deck for a more basic, right-sized package for smaller lakes. Compared to the Venture 24 above, it offers a significantly lower price and simpler operation, but its base dual-tube hull caps performance at 150 hp and it has fewer luxury features.

9. Avalon Venture Bow 22

The Avalon Venture Bow 22 ranks ninth because it packs fishing utility into a compact 22-foot deck with a fish-forward bow layout for nimble, trailerable angling. Offered in dual- or triple-tube trim with 25-inch tubes, the tri-toon is rated up to 150 hp and holds about 30 gallons of fuel. The Bow layout puts pedestal fishing seats and a livewell up front for easy casting, while still seating up to 10 passengers for family use.

This is for anglers who want fishing access in a compact package that is easy to trailer and store, starting at $46,500. It trades away the LSZ 22's lower price and simpler layout for a more specialized fishing-forward design. Compared to the LSZ 22 above, it offers a higher price but adds a livewell and pedestal seats, though it has a tighter deck and a similar 150-hp ceiling, limiting towing and top speed.

10. Avalon Paradise 22

The Avalon Paradise 22 ranks tenth because it is the brand's most affordable, no-frills cruiser, offering a simple and dependable starter pontoon on a 22-foot deck. Built in dual-tube form with 25-inch tubes, it carries a max rating up to 115 hp and holds about 30 gallons of fuel. The Paradise strips the option list to essentials, with comfortable lounge seating for up to 9 passengers, a standard Bimini, and a clean helm.

This is for budget-minded buyers who want a simple, dependable first pontoon without paying for features they will not use, starting at $39,900. It trades away the Venture Bow 22's fishing features and higher horsepower ceiling for the lowest sticker price in the lineup. Compared to the Venture Bow 22 above, it offers a lower price and a more straightforward layout, but it has the lowest 115-hp ceiling and the most spartan feature set.

How we ranked these

We measured each Avalon model against six weighted criteria: build quality and reliability (25%), on-water performance (20%), comfort and layout (15%), value and price (15%), features and tech (15%), and resale (10%). Data came from published specs on Boating Magazine, Discover Boating, BoatTEST, boats.com, and Avalon's official pages, using real 2026–2027 model-year MSRPs, tube configurations, and max horsepower ratings.

We deliberately ignored marketing hype like cupholder counts, badge names, and quoted top speeds. These factors rarely affect real-world cruising satisfaction. We also excluded subjective styling preferences and dealer-specific promotions, focusing instead on objective, verifiable specifications that directly impact ownership experience, such as tube gauge, hull warranty, seating layout, and fuel capacity.

What to look for

What actually matters is matching the hull to your water and intended use. For rough water or watersports, choose a tri-toon with 27-inch tubes and a higher max HP — the Excalibur 27 or Catalina 25 tri-toon. For calm lakes and budget, a dual-tube LSZ 22 or Paradise 22 suffices. Always prioritize the lifetime structural warranty and heavy-gauge tubes over flashy options.

The biggest mistake buyers make is overbuying horsepower or deck size without considering trailering, storage, and typical passenger load. Many choose a 27-foot flagship for occasional weekend use, then struggle with tow vehicle requirements and slip fees. Conversely, some underbuy, getting a 115-hp dual-tube when they regularly pull skiers. Match the boat to your real, weekly usage pattern, not aspirational days.

Related questions

What is the best Avalon pontoon for a family of five?

The Avalon LSZ Cruise 24 or GS 23 are ideal for a family of five. The LSZ Cruise 24 offers wraparound seating for up to 12, a tri-toon option rated to 250 hp, and a comfortable, relaxed helm. The GS 23 provides a balanced bow-and-stern lounge layout, also seating 11, with an available ski-tow bar for watersports. Both offer Avalon's lifetime warranty.

How does the Avalon Excalibur 27 compare to the Ambassador 27?

The Excalibur 27 is the sport-luxury flagship with triple 27-inch tubes, a 400-hp rating, and a premium Simrad helm, starting at $98,500. The Ambassador 27 is the entertainer's choice, offering a more open social floor plan with a wet bar option, seating 13, and up to 350 hp, starting at $84,900. Choose Excalibur for performance, Ambassador for socializing.

Is a tri-toon Avalon worth the extra cost?

Yes, if you need stability, higher horsepower, and better rough-water handling. Tri-toons add a third tube, increasing buoyancy and allowing up to 400 hp on the Excalibur. They ride drier and more stable with heavy loads. If you primarily cruise calm, small lakes and don't tow skiers, a dual-tube saves money and weight.

What is the towing capacity for an Avalon pontoon?

Avalon pontoons are not rated for towing heavy loads like wakeboard boats. They can tow skiers or tubes within their max HP rating. For example, the GS 23 with a tri-toon and 250-hp rating can pull a skier. The Paradise 22 at 115 hp is less suited for towing. Always check the owner's manual for specific tow ratings.

Which Avalon model has the highest resale value?

The Avalon Excalibur 27 likely holds the highest resale value due to its flagship status, premium features, and strong demand. Avalon's lifetime structural warranty on tubes and deck also supports resale across the lineup. Models with tri-toons and higher HP ratings generally retain value better than base dual-tube versions.

Are there any used Avalon pontoons under $40,000?

Yes, older used Avalon models, such as a 2020 LSZ 22 or a 2018 Catalina 22, can often be found under $40,000. Prices vary by condition, hours, and location. Check reputable sites like boats.com, Boat Trader, and YachtWorld for current listings. Always get a marine survey before purchasing a used pontoon.

What maintenance does an Avalon pontoon require?

Routine maintenance includes flushing the outboard engine, checking and changing oil, inspecting the fuel system, and cleaning the upholstery. The aluminum tubes should be cleaned and waxed to prevent oxidation. Winterize the engine and water systems in cold climates. Avalon's lifetime warranty covers structural defects but not normal wear.

Can I use an Avalon pontoon in saltwater?

Avalon pontoons are primarily designed for freshwater use. Saltwater exposure can corrode aluminum tubes and hardware. If used in saltwater, rinse thoroughly after each use and consider a saltwater-rated outboard. Avalon's warranty may not cover saltwater corrosion, so check the warranty terms. Most buyers use them on lakes and rivers.

FAQ

Which Avalon pontoon is the best overall for 2027?

The Avalon Excalibur 27 earns our top spot, pairing a triple 27-inch tube package, a 400-hp max rating, luxury seating for 13, and Avalon's lifetime structural warranty with no major weaknesses. It starts around $98,500.

What is the best value Avalon pontoon?

The Avalon LSZ 22, starting near $42,900, offers genuine Avalon build quality, the lifetime warranty, and quality seating at the lowest entry price in the lineup. It's the smartest value for first-time buyers.

What is the difference between a dual-tube and a tri-toon Avalon?

A tri-toon uses three tubes for greater stability, buoyancy, and higher horsepower ratings, while a dual-tube is lighter and more affordable. Tri-toons suit big crews, watersports, and rough water. Dual-tubes are fine for calm lakes and budget buyers.

How much horsepower do Avalon pontoons support?

Ratings range from 115 hp on the Paradise 22 to a full 400 hp on the Excalibur 27 tri-toon, with most mid-size models rated between 150 and 300 hp. Choose based on your watersports needs and lake size.

Which Avalon is best for fishing?

The Venture 24 and compact Venture Bow 22 add livewells, rod holders, and fishing-friendly bow seating while keeping enough lounge space for family cruising. The Venture 24 offers up to 200 hp, while the Bow 22 is more nimble.

Are Avalon pontoons good quality?

Yes. Avalon is known for heavy-gauge tubes, furniture-grade upholstery, and a lifetime structural warranty on tubes and deck, which supports both durability and strong resale value. They are built in Alma, Michigan.

What is the fuel capacity of the Avalon Excalibur 27?

The Avalon Excalibur 27 holds roughly 62 gallons of fuel, which is ideal for big-water days. This large tank, combined with a 400-hp rating, gives it a good range for a luxury tri-toon.

How many passengers can the Avalon Ambassador 27 seat?

The Ambassador 27 seats up to 13 passengers, making it the entertainer's choice. Its open, social floor plan includes a center-positioned wet bar option and rear-facing lounges, perfect for large crews.

Does the Avalon LSZ 22 come with a tri-toon option?

Yes, the LSZ 22 is available as a dual-tube standard, but a tri-toon upgrade is available. The tri-toon increases stability and allows a higher max horsepower rating, up to 150 hp, making it more versatile.

What is the starting price for the Avalon Catalina 25?

The 2027 Avalon Catalina 25 starts at around $72,400. It offers a 25-foot 6-inch deck, available dual- or triple-tube with 25-inch tubes, and a max rating up to 300 hp in tri-toon trim.

Sources

• https://www.boatingmag.com/
• https://www.discoverboating.com/
• https://boattest.com/
• https://www.boats.com/
• https://www.yachtworld.com/
• https://www.boattrader.com/
• https://www.avalonpontoons.com/

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