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Best Used Pontoon Boats Under $20,000 in 2027 (Ranked)

📖 2,424 words🗓️ Published Jul 21, 2026

A used pontoon under $20,000 is the sweet spot for families who want deck space, stable seating, and easy weekend cruising without a new-boat loan. This guide ranks ten boats you can realistically find on the used market in 2027, judged on build quality, resale strength, engine reliability, and layout. We focused on 18 to 24-foot models from the major builders, the ones that hold up after a decade of lake duty and still trailer behind a mid-size SUV. We weighed how parts availability, common failure points, and trailer condition affect the real out-the-door cost, because the sticker price is only the start of pontoon ownership.

Direct Answer

The best overall used pontoon under $20,000 is a 2016-2018 Bennington 20 SLX at roughly $17,500-$19,500, which pairs a stout aluminum deck with strong resale. The best value pick is a 2014-2017 Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX at about $13,000-$16,000, offering the most usable boat per dollar. Always budget for a fresh survey, a water test, and a trailer inspection before you wire money.

flowchart TD A[Start Search] --> B[Set Budget Under 20k] B --> C[Check 2027 Models] C --> D[Top Ranked Pontoon] D --> E[Features Review] E --> F[Price Comparison] F --> G[Final Selection]

How We Ranked

Build quality — Deck thickness, rail welds, furniture vinyl, and pontoon tube gauge separate a 20-year boat from a 7-year one.
Engine reliability — Outboard brand and hours drive both safety and the single biggest repair bill you can face.
Resale strength — Brands that hold value protect you if you sell or trade in two or three seasons.
Layout and capacity — Seating count, changing-room options, and rated person capacity decide how the family actually uses it.
Total cost of ownership — Trailer condition, parts availability, and known weak points fold into the true price under $20,000.

1. 2016-2018 Bennington 20 SLX 🏆 BEST OVERALL

2016-2018 Bennington 20 SLX

The Bennington 20 SLX wins because it delivers near-premium construction at a used price that slips under twenty grand once it is a few seasons old. Bennington uses a fully welded deck-to-tube structure and heavier rail extrusions than most value brands, so even a high-hour example feels tight underfoot. Expect a 20-foot length overall, an 8-foot 6-inch beam, and a rated capacity around 9 to 10 people.

Power is usually a Yamaha or Mercury 90 to 115 horsepower four-stroke, which is plenty for cruising and light tubing. At $17,500 to $19,500 you get a boat that resells better than anything else on this list, which is the real reason it ranks first.

Price: ~$18,500
Pros: Top-tier resale, heavy-gauge tubes, quiet ride, premium vinyl that ages well
Cons: Commands a price premium used, fewer cheap examples to find
Verdict: The smartest long-term buy if you can find a clean one in budget.

2. 2014-2017 Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX 💎 BEST VALUE

2014-2017 Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX

The Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX is the value champion because it is sold through Bass Pro and Cabela's, so used examples are everywhere and priced to move. You get a 20-foot deck, an 8-foot 6-inch beam, and seating for roughly 10 people, often with the original Mercury 60 to 90 horsepower four-stroke still attached.

Sun Tracker's bundled trailer and factory warranty history mean many used boats come with a matched, road-ready trailer included, which quietly saves you $1,500 to $2,500. At $13,000 to $16,000, nothing else gives a family this much usable deck per dollar.

Price: ~$14,500
Pros: Cheap to buy, trailer usually included, huge parts and dealer network
Cons: Lighter furniture, thinner rails, softer resale than Bennington
Verdict: The most boat for the least money, ideal for first-time owners.

3. 2015-2018 Lowe Ultra 200

2015-2018 Lowe Ultra 200

The Lowe Ultra 200 is the close cousin of the Sun Tracker, built under the same Brunswick umbrella, and it competes hard on price. It measures 20 feet with an 8-foot 6-inch beam and seats about 9 people, with fishing-friendly touches like rod holders and an aerated livewell on many trims.

Most carry a Mercury 60 to 115 horsepower outboard. The Ultra blends cruising and fishing better than a pure party barge, which makes it a strong pick for buyers who want both.

Price: ~$15,000
Pros: Dual fish-and-cruise layout, solid value, Mercury power common
Cons: Base furniture wears, lighter build than premium brands
Verdict: The best choice for anglers who still want family seating.

4. 2013-2016 Harris Cruiser 200

2013-2016 Harris Cruiser 200

Harris is one of the oldest names in pontoons, and the Cruiser 200 brings genuine quality to the used market. The 20-foot hull rides on 25-inch tubes on many builds, giving a smoother chop ride than the value brands. Capacity sits near 10 people and beam is the usual 8 feet 6 inches.

A 90 to 150 horsepower outboard is typical. Harris resale is strong, second only to Bennington here, so a clean Cruiser 200 protects your money.

Price: ~$17,000
Pros: Refined ride, strong resale, quality fit and finish
Cons: Pricey when loaded, fewer budget examples
Verdict: A near-premium ride that just sneaks under $20,000 used.

5. 2014-2017 Premier 200 Sunsation

2014-2017 Premier 200 Sunsation

Premier builds furniture-tube pontoons known for plush seating and tight rail construction. The Sunsation 200 is 20 feet, seats around 9 people, and uses Premier's signature furniture-tube rail system that resists rattles as the boat ages.

Power is commonly a Mercury 90 to 115 horsepower four-stroke. Premiers cost a bit more used because owners tend to baby them, but the payoff is a boat that still feels solid after years on the water.

Price: ~$17,500
Pros: Excellent furniture, rattle-free rails, loyal owner care
Cons: Higher entry price, smaller dealer network in some regions
Verdict: Buy it for the seating comfort and the tight build.

6. 2015-2018 Crest Classic 220

2015-2018 Crest Classic 220

The Crest Classic 220 stretches the budget to a 22-foot deck, which matters for bigger families. Beam is 8 feet 6 inches, capacity runs near 11 people, and Crest's deck-on-deck construction keeps the floor stiff for the long haul.

Look for a Yamaha or Mercury 90 to 150 horsepower outboard. A clean two-tube Crest at this length under twenty grand is a genuine find, since most 22-footers push past the cap.

Price: ~$18,500
Pros: Extra length and seating, stiff deck, quality rails
Cons: Heavier to tow, fewer under-budget examples
Verdict: The pick when you need to seat the whole extended family.

7. 2013-2016 Avalon GS Cruise 22

2013-2016 Avalon GS Cruise 22

Avalon is a higher-end Michigan builder, and an older GS Cruise 22 can land under budget once it is a decade old. It runs 22 feet with an 8-foot 6-inch beam and seats roughly 10 to 11 people, with upholstery quality that beats most value brands.

Expect a Mercury or Yamaha 90 to 150 horsepower outboard. Avalon's build is a step up, so a sub-$20,000 example usually means higher hours, which makes the engine check critical.

Price: ~$18,000
Pros: Premium upholstery, refined ride, strong fit and finish
Cons: Budget examples carry more hours, parts cost more
Verdict: A premium-feel boat if you accept an older, higher-hour hull.

8. 2014-2017 G3 SunCatcher V20

2014-2017 G3 SunCatcher V20

The G3 SunCatcher V20 is Yamaha-owned, and many examples ship with a Yamaha outboard from the factory, which is a real reliability edge. The 20-foot deck seats around 9 people on an 8-foot 6-inch beam, with sturdy aluminum furniture frames underneath the vinyl.

Yamaha's parts and service network is a genuine asset for long-term ownership. At this price the V20 is an underrated buy that many shoppers skip simply because they have not heard of it.

Price: ~$15,500
Pros: Yamaha power and support, solid frames, good value
Cons: Smaller brand recognition, softer resale
Verdict: A quietly reliable buy with Yamaha backing.

9. 2013-2016 Sylvan Mirage 8520

2013-2016 Sylvan Mirage 8520

Sylvan has built pontoons since the 1940s, and the Mirage 8520 offers a 20-foot deck with thoughtful storage and a comfortable cruise layout. Beam is the standard 8 feet 6 inches, and capacity sits near 10 people.

A Mercury 90 to 115 horsepower four-stroke is common. Sylvan sits between value and premium on price, so a tidy used Mirage delivers above-average quality without a top-tier sticker.

Price: ~$16,000
Pros: Long heritage, smart storage, balanced price
Cons: Thinner dealer coverage, average resale
Verdict: A solid middle-ground cruiser that flies under the radar.

10. 2014-2017 Starcraft EX 20 C

2014-2017 Starcraft EX 20 C

The Starcraft EX 20 C rounds out the list as a dependable, no-drama cruiser. It is 20 feet with an 8-foot 6-inch beam and seats about 9 people, built on Starcraft's all-aluminum heritage that dates back over a century.

Most carry a Mercury 60 to 115 horsepower outboard. Starcraft prices used boats aggressively, so the EX 20 C is easy to find under budget and easy to maintain with widely available parts.

Price: ~$14,000
Pros: Affordable, durable aluminum build, easy parts
Cons: Plainer styling, lighter furniture
Verdict: A budget-friendly cruiser for buyers who value simplicity.

How to Choose

What to Look For

Pontoon tubes: Inspect for dents, pinholes, and electrolysis pitting; tap each tube and listen for water sloshing inside, which signals a leak.
Engine hours and brand: A four-stroke Yamaha or Mercury with documented service beats a cheap two-stroke with no records; over 500 hours demands a compression test.
Deck and furniture: Walk the whole deck for soft spots that hint at rot under the carpet, and check vinyl seams for splitting and mildew.
Trailer: Verify bearings, tire age, lights, and bunk condition, because a tired trailer can add $1,000 or more to your real cost.

FAQ

Are used pontoons under $20,000 reliable enough for family use? Yes, many are, but reliability depends heavily on the engine brand and maintenance history. A well-cared-for 2014–2018 model with a Yamaha or Mercury outboard and under 400 hours can easily provide 5–10 more years of trouble-free use. Always get a marine survey and a compression test on the engine before buying.

What size pontoon can I realistically get for under $20,000? You can find good 18- to 22-foot models in this price range, with 20-foot being the sweet spot for space and trailerability. Larger 24-foot boats are rarer under $20,000 and often have older engines or worn upholstery. Stick with 18–22 feet for the best balance of condition and value.

How much should I budget for a used pontoon beyond the purchase price? Plan for $1,500 to $3,000 extra for a survey, water test, trailer inspection, and any immediate repairs like new tires, battery, or minor engine service. Registration and taxes add another few hundred dollars depending on your state. This total can push your real cost to $21,000–$23,000.

Do older pontoons hold their value well if I want to sell later? Brands like Bennington and Harris hold value better than entry-level models, but all pontoons depreciate significantly after 10–15 years. A 2016–2018 Bennington 20 SLX might resell for $14,000–$16,000 after a few seasons of use, while a Sun Tracker from the same era may drop to $9,000–$12,000. Condition and engine hours matter more than brand alone.

What should I look for during a water test of a used pontoon? Check for smooth acceleration, steady idle, and no unusual vibrations or smoke from the engine. Test all electronics, including lights, bilge pump, and stereo, and ensure the steering feels tight with no play. Also, run the boat at cruising speed and listen for any rattles from loose deck panels or rail welds.

Is it better to buy a used pontoon from a dealer or a private seller? Dealers often offer a limited warranty, a reconditioned engine, and a trailer that’s been inspected, but prices are typically $2,000–$4,000 higher. Private sellers are cheaper but require you to arrange your own survey and water test, and you assume more risk. For first-time buyers, a dealer is safer; for experienced owners, a private sale can save money.

Bottom Line

For the best balance of quality and resale, the 2016-2018 Bennington 20 SLX at around $18,500 is the overall winner, while the 2014-2017 Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX near $14,500 is the value leader. Whichever you choose, insist on a water test, an engine check, and a trailer inspection before you pay.

flowchart TD A[Start] --> B{Budget?} B -->|Under 16k| C[Sun Tracker 20 DLX or Starcraft EX 20 C] B -->|Higher| D[Bennington 20 SLX or Harris Cruiser 200] C --> E{Fish or cruise?} D --> E E -->|Fish| F[Lowe Ultra 200 or G3 SunCatcher] E -->|Cruise| G[Premier Sunsation or Avalon GS Cruise]

Related on PULSE

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Sources

Boat Trader — used pontoon listings and pricing trends
Discover Boating — pontoon buying guidance and capacity basics
NADA Guides / J.D. Power — used boat valuation ranges
BoatUS — marine survey and pre-purchase inspection guidance
Boating Magazine — pontoon model reviews and ride impressions
NMMA — boat ownership and registration data
Yamaha and Mercury Marine — outboard reliability and service network

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# Best Used Pontoon Boats Under $20,000 in 2027 (Ranked)

A used pontoon under **$20,000** is the sweet spot for families who want **deck space**, stable seating, and easy weekend cruising without a new-boat loan. This guide ranks ten boats you can realistically find on the used market in 2027, judged on **build quality**, **resale strength**, **engine reliability**, and **layout**. We focused on **18 to 24-foot** models from the major builders, the ones that hold up after a decade of lake duty and still trailer behind a mid-size SUV. We weighed how parts availability, common failure points, and trailer condition affect the real out-the-door cost, because the sticker price is only the start of pontoon ownership.

## Direct Answer
The best overall used pontoon under $20,000 is a **2016-2018 Bennington 20 SLX** at roughly **$17,500-$19,500**, which pairs a stout aluminum deck with strong resale. The best value pick is a **2014-2017 Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX** at about **$13,000-$16,000**, offering the most usable boat per dollar. Always budget for a fresh survey, a water test, and a trailer inspection before you wire money.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
A[Start Search] --> B[Set Budget Under 20k]
B --> C[Check 2027 Models]
C --> D[Top Ranked Pontoon]
D --> E[Features Review]
E --> F[Price Comparison]
F --> G[Final Selection]
```

## How We Ranked

![pontoon boats lined up marina](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/realistic%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20pontoon%20boats%20lined%20up%20marina%2C%20natural%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=56273)%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=46714)

- **Build quality** — Deck thickness, rail welds, furniture vinyl, and pontoon tube gauge separate a 20-year boat from a 7-year one.
- **Engine reliability** — Outboard brand and hours drive both safety and the single biggest repair bill you can face.
- **Resale strength** — Brands that hold value protect you if you sell or trade in two or three seasons.
- **Layout and capacity** — Seating count, changing-room options, and rated person capacity decide how the family actually uses it.
- **Total cost of ownership** — Trailer condition, parts availability, and known weak points fold into the true price under $20,000.

## 1. 2016-2018 Bennington 20 SLX 🏆 BEST OVERALL

![Bennington SLX pontoon boat](https://media.boatcrazy.com/Boatcrazy/ListingImage/images/16356611/huge/original-used-2014-bennington-22-slx-pontoon.JPG)

@@PRODUCT name="2016-2018 Bennington 20 SLX" img="https://dailyboats.com/bimg/2/5/7/7/5/0/boat/5_large.jpg" site="https://dailyboats.com/boat/257750-buy-bennington-20-slx-for-sale"
The **Bennington 20 SLX** wins because it delivers near-premium construction at a used price that slips under twenty grand once it is a few seasons old. Bennington uses a **fully welded** deck-to-tube structure and heavier rail extrusions than most value brands, so even a high-hour example feels tight underfoot. Expect a **20-foot** length overall, an **8-foot 6-inch beam**, and a rated capacity around **9 to 10 people**.

Power is usually a **Yamaha** or **Mercury 90 to 115 horsepower** four-stroke, which is plenty for cruising and light tubing. At **$17,500 to $19,500** you get a boat that resells better than anything else on this list, which is the real reason it ranks first.

- **Price:** ~$18,500
- **Pros:** Top-tier resale, heavy-gauge tubes, quiet ride, premium vinyl that ages well
- **Cons:** Commands a price premium used, fewer cheap examples to find
- **Verdict:** The smartest long-term buy if you can find a clean one in budget.

## 2. 2014-2017 Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX 💎 BEST VALUE

![Sun Tracker Party Barge pontoon](https://www.suntrackerboats.com/content/dam/wrmg/sun-tracker/2024/recreational-pontoons/party-barge-20-dlx/studio/24_ST_PB20DLX_BMT001.jpg)

@@PRODUCT name="2014-2017 Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX" img="https://cdn.dealeraccelerate.com/amtc/1/13424/369224/790x1024/2017-sun-tracker-party-barge-20-dlx" site="https://buy.motorious.com/vehicles/426340/2017-sun-tracker-party-barge-20-dlx"
The **Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX** is the value champion because it is sold through Bass Pro and Cabela's, so used examples are everywhere and priced to move. You get a **20-foot** deck, an **8-foot 6-inch beam**, and seating for roughly **10 people**, often with the original **Mercury 60 to 90 horsepower** four-stroke still attached.

Sun Tracker's bundled trailer and factory warranty history mean many used boats come with a matched, road-ready trailer included, which quietly saves you **$1,500 to $2,500**. At **$13,000 to $16,000**, nothing else gives a family this much usable deck per dollar.

- **Price:** ~$14,500
- **Pros:** Cheap to buy, trailer usually included, huge parts and dealer network
- **Cons:** Lighter furniture, thinner rails, softer resale than Bennington
- **Verdict:** The most boat for the least money, ideal for first-time owners.

## 3. 2015-2018 Lowe Ultra 200
@@PRODUCT name="2015-2018 Lowe Ultra 200" img="https://cdn.jdpower.com/CRS/Floorplans/2017_Lowe_UltraCruise_200_EXT.jpg" site="https://www.jdpower.com/boats/2018/lowe-ind/200-cruise_/32081084/specs"
The **Lowe Ultra 200** is the close cousin of the Sun Tracker, built under the same Brunswick umbrella, and it competes hard on price. It measures **20 feet** with an **8-foot 6-inch beam** and seats about **9 people**, with fishing-friendly touches like rod holders and an aerated livewell on many trims.

Most carry a **Mercury 60 to 115 horsepower** outboard. The Ultra blends cruising and fishing better than a pure party barge, which makes it a strong pick for buyers who want both.

- **Price:** ~$15,000
- **Pros:** Dual fish-and-cruise layout, solid value, Mercury power common
- **Cons:** Base furniture wears, lighter build than premium brands
- **Verdict:** The best choice for anglers who still want family seating.

## 4. 2013-2016 Harris Cruiser 200
@@PRODUCT name="2013-2016 Harris Cruiser 200" img="https://www.ridecdn.com/www.gulllakemarine.com/unit/301/img1539.jpeg" site="https://www.gulllakemarine.com/inventory/2016-harris-cruiser-200-8319a"
**Harris** is one of the oldest names in pontoons, and the **Cruiser 200** brings genuine quality to the used market. The **20-foot** hull rides on **25-inch tubes** on many builds, giving a smoother chop ride than the value brands. Capacity sits near **10 people** and beam is the usual **8 feet 6 inches**.

A **90 to 150 horsepower** outboard is typical. Harris resale is strong, second only to Bennington here, so a clean Cruiser 200 protects your money.

- **Price:** ~$17,000
- **Pros:** Refined ride, strong resale, quality fit and finish
- **Cons:** Pricey when loaded, fewer budget examples
- **Verdict:** A near-premium ride that just sneaks under $20,000 used.

## 5. 2014-2017 Premier 200 Sunsation
@@PRODUCT name="2014-2017 Premier 200 Sunsation" img="https://boats-from-usa.com/sites/default/files/boats/2017-10/22/150909/premier-sunsation-1736319.jpg" site="https://boats-from-usa.com/premier/premier-sunsation-150909"
**Premier** builds furniture-tube pontoons known for plush seating and tight rail construction. The **Sunsation 200** is **20 feet**, seats around **9 people**, and uses Premier's signature **furniture-tube** rail system that resists rattles as the boat ages.

Power is commonly a **Mercury 90 to 115 horsepower** four-stroke. Premiers cost a bit more used because owners tend to baby them, but the payoff is a boat that still feels solid after years on the water.

- **Price:** ~$17,500
- **Pros:** Excellent furniture, rattle-free rails, loyal owner care
- **Cons:** Higher entry price, smaller dealer network in some regions
- **Verdict:** Buy it for the seating comfort and the tight build.

## 6. 2015-2018 Crest Classic 220
@@PRODUCT name="2015-2018 Crest Classic 220" img="https://lakelandboating.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Crest_3.jpg" site="https://lakelandboating.com/crest-pontoon-classic-dlx-220-slc-2/"
The **Crest Classic 220** stretches the budget to a **22-foot** deck, which matters for bigger families. Beam is **8 feet 6 inches**, capacity runs near **11 people**, and Crest's deck-on-deck construction keeps the floor stiff for the long haul.

Look for a **Yamaha or Mercury 90 to 150 horsepower** outboard. A clean two-tube Crest at this length under twenty grand is a genuine find, since most 22-footers push past the cap.

- **Price:** ~$18,500
- **Pros:** Extra length and seating, stiff deck, quality rails
- **Cons:** Heavier to tow, fewer under-budget examples
- **Verdict:** The pick when you need to seat the whole extended family.

## 7. 2013-2016 Avalon GS Cruise 22
@@PRODUCT name="2013-2016 Avalon GS Cruise 22" img="https://www.boatguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Avalon-GS-Cruise--671x342.jpg" site="https://www.boatguide.com/how-to/10-great-small-pontoons"
**Avalon** is a higher-end Michigan builder, and an older **GS Cruise 22** can land under budget once it is a decade old. It runs **22 feet** with an **8-foot 6-inch beam** and seats roughly **10 to 11 people**, with upholstery quality that beats most value brands.

Expect a **Mercury or Yamaha 90 to 150 horsepower** outboard. Avalon's build is a step up, so a sub-$20,000 example usually means higher hours, which makes the engine check critical.

- **Price:** ~$18,000
- **Pros:** Premium upholstery, refined ride, strong fit and finish
- **Cons:** Budget examples carry more hours, parts cost more
- **Verdict:** A premium-feel boat if you accept an older, higher-hour hull.

## 8. 2014-2017 G3 SunCatcher V20
@@PRODUCT name="2014-2017 G3 SunCatcher V20" img="https://boats-from-usa.com/sites/default/files/boats/2020-03/17/241934/not-specified-v20c-2862367.jpg" site="https://boats-from-usa.com/not-specified/g3-suncatcher-v20c-241934"
The **G3 SunCatcher V20** is Yamaha-owned, and many examples ship with a **Yamaha** outboard from the factory, which is a real reliability edge. The **20-foot** deck seats around **9 people** on an **8-foot 6-inch beam**, with sturdy aluminum furniture frames underneath the vinyl.

Yamaha's parts and service network is a genuine asset for long-term ownership. At this price the V20 is an underrated buy that many shoppers skip simply because they have not heard of it.

- **Price:** ~$15,500
- **Pros:** Yamaha power and support, solid frames, good value
- **Cons:** Smaller brand recognition, softer resale
- **Verdict:** A quietly reliable buy with Yamaha backing.

## 9. 2013-2016 Sylvan Mirage 8520
@@PRODUCT name="2013-2016 Sylvan Mirage 8520" img="https://images.boatsgroup.com/resize/1/54/54/2013-sylvan-mirage-cruise-8520-cr-power-10005454-20251111101345300-1.jpg?w=1028&ratio=default&t=1763489524000&exact&format=webp" site="https://www.yachtworld.com/yacht/2013-sylvan-mirage-cruise-8520-cr-10005454/"
**Sylvan** has built pontoons since the 1940s, and the **Mirage 8520** offers a **20-foot** deck with thoughtful storage and a comfortable cruise layout. Beam is the standard **8 feet 6 inches**, and capacity sits near **10 people**.

A **Mercury 90 to 115 horsepower** four-stroke is common. Sylvan sits between value and premium on price, so a tidy used Mirage delivers above-average quality without a top-tier sticker.

- **Price:** ~$16,000
- **Pros:** Long heritage, smart storage, balanced price
- **Cons:** Thinner dealer coverage, average resale
- **Verdict:** A solid middle-ground cruiser that flies under the radar.

## 10. 2014-2017 Starcraft EX 20 C
@@PRODUCT name="2014-2017 Starcraft EX 20 C" img="https://boats-from-usa.com/sites/default/files/boats/2020-05/17/245353/starcraft-ex20c-2908873.jpg" site="https://boats-from-usa.com/starcraft/starcraft-ex20c-245353"
The **Starcraft EX 20 C** rounds out the list as a dependable, no-drama cruiser. It is **20 feet** with an **8-foot 6-inch beam** and seats about **9 people**, built on Starcraft's all-aluminum heritage that dates back over a century.

Most carry a **Mercury 60 to 115 horsepower** outboard. Starcraft prices used boats aggressively, so the EX 20 C is easy to find under budget and easy to maintain with widely available parts.

- **Price:** ~$14,000
- **Pros:** Affordable, durable aluminum build, easy parts
- **Cons:** Plainer styling, lighter furniture
- **Verdict:** A budget-friendly cruiser for buyers who value simplicity.

## How to Choose
```mermaid
flowchart TD
  A[Start] --> B{Budget?}
  B -->|Under 16k| C[Sun Tracker 20 DLX or Starcraft EX 20 C]
  B -->|Higher| D[Bennington 20 SLX or Harris Cruiser 200]
  C --> E{Fish or cruise?}
  D --> E
  E -->|Fish| F[Lowe Ultra 200 or G3 SunCatcher]
  E -->|Cruise| G[Premier Sunsation or Avalon GS Cruise]
```

## What to Look For
- **Pontoon tubes:** Inspect for dents, pinholes, and electrolysis pitting; tap each tube and listen for water sloshing inside, which signals a leak.
- **Engine hours and brand:** A four-stroke Yamaha or Mercury with documented service beats a cheap two-stroke with no records; over 500 hours demands a compression test.
- **Deck and furniture:** Walk the whole deck for soft spots that hint at rot under the carpet, and check vinyl seams for splitting and mildew.
- **Trailer:** Verify bearings, tire age, lights, and bunk condition, because a tired trailer can add **$1,000 or more** to your real cost.

## FAQ

**Are used pontoons under $20,000 reliable enough for family use?**  
Yes, many are, but reliability depends heavily on the engine brand and maintenance history. A well-cared-for 2014–2018 model with a Yamaha or Mercury outboard and under 400 hours can easily provide 5–10 more years of trouble-free use. Always get a marine survey and a compression test on the engine before buying.

**What size pontoon can I realistically get for under $20,000?**  
You can find good 18- to 22-foot models in this price range, with 20-foot being the sweet spot for space and trailerability. Larger 24-foot boats are rarer under $20,000 and often have older engines or worn upholstery. Stick with 18–22 feet for the best balance of condition and value.

**How much should I budget for a used pontoon beyond the purchase price?**  
Plan for $1,500 to $3,000 extra for a survey, water test, trailer inspection, and any immediate repairs like new tires, battery, or minor engine service. Registration and taxes add another few hundred dollars depending on your state. This total can push your real cost to $21,000–$23,000.

**Do older pontoons hold their value well if I want to sell later?**  
Brands like Bennington and Harris hold value better than entry-level models, but all pontoons depreciate significantly after 10–15 years. A 2016–2018 Bennington 20 SLX might resell for $14,000–$16,000 after a few seasons of use, while a Sun Tracker from the same era may drop to $9,000–$12,000. Condition and engine hours matter more than brand alone.

**What should I look for during a water test of a used pontoon?**  
Check for smooth acceleration, steady idle, and no unusual vibrations or smoke from the engine. Test all electronics, including lights, bilge pump, and stereo, and ensure the steering feels tight with no play. Also, run the boat at cruising speed and listen for any rattles from loose deck panels or rail welds.

**Is it better to buy a used pontoon from a dealer or a private seller?**  
Dealers often offer a limited warranty, a reconditioned engine, and a trailer that’s been inspected, but prices are typically $2,000–$4,000 higher. Private sellers are cheaper but require you to arrange your own survey and water test, and you assume more risk. For first-time buyers, a dealer is safer; for experienced owners, a private sale can save money.

## Bottom Line
For the best balance of quality and resale, the **2016-2018 Bennington 20 SLX** at around **$18,500** is the overall winner, while the **2014-2017 Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX** near **$14,500** is the value leader. Whichever you choose, insist on a water test, an engine check, and a trailer inspection before you pay.

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## Sources
- Boat Trader — used pontoon listings and pricing trends
- Discover Boating — pontoon buying guidance and capacity basics
- NADA Guides / J.D. Power — used boat valuation ranges
- BoatUS — marine survey and pre-purchase inspection guidance
- Boating Magazine — pontoon model reviews and ride impressions
- NMMA — boat ownership and registration data
- Yamaha and Mercury Marine — outboard reliability and service network

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