Feb 13th 2026
Do Pontoon Boats Have Bathrooms?
Do pontoon boats have bathrooms? The short answer is that some do, but many do not. It depends on the size of the boat, how it is used, and what the owner chose when it was built or upgraded.
Let’s walk through what you should expect so there are no surprises on the water.
Most Pontoon Boats Do Not Have Bathrooms
Most standard pontoon boats do not come with a built in bathroom. These boats are designed for day trips, cruising, fishing, swimming, and relaxing with family or friends. Because of this, manufacturers often leave out bathrooms to save space and keep costs lower.
Smaller and mid size pontoons usually focus on open seating, storage, and easy movement around the deck. Adding a bathroom would take up room that many people prefer to use for seating or shade.
If you are renting a pontoon boat for a few hours on a lake near Richmond, chances are it will not have a bathroom on board.
Larger Pontoon Boats May Have a Bathroom
Some larger pontoon boats do offer bathroom options. These are often called luxury pontoons or tri toons. They are wider, longer, and built for longer days on the water.
On these boats, the bathroom is usually small and tucked away in a changing room. It may include a portable toilet or a marine toilet system. These setups are more common on pontoons that are used for all day outings or entertaining larger groups.
If having a bathroom is important to you, it is something you should ask about before renting or buying.
Portable Toilets Are Common
When a pontoon boat does have a bathroom, it is often a portable toilet rather than a full restroom like you would find on a houseboat. Portable toilets are simple and easy to maintain. They are designed for light use and short trips.
These toilets are usually placed inside a privacy enclosure or changing area with a curtain or solid door. This gives users privacy without taking up too much deck space.
For families with kids or for longer lake days, this setup can be very helpful.
Why Many People Are Okay Without a Bathroom
Even though bathrooms can be convenient, many pontoon owners and renters are fine without them. Lakes around Richmond, MN often have public access points, restaurants, or shoreline stops with restrooms nearby.
Most pontoon trips are planned with bathroom breaks in mind. People will stop at a dock, head back to shore, or plan shorter outings. For many groups, this works just fine and keeps the boat simpler and more open.
Skipping the bathroom also keeps rental costs lower and makes the boat easier to clean and maintain.
Things to Consider When Renting a Pontoon
If you are renting a pontoon boat, think about how long you will be on the water and who will be with you. A short afternoon cruise may not require a bathroom at all. A full day with kids or older adults might be different.
Always ask the rental company if the pontoon has a bathroom or a changing area. If it does not, ask about nearby restrooms or recommended stops on the lake.
Planning ahead helps everyone relax and enjoy the day.
Buying a Pontoon With a Bathroom
If you are looking to buy a pontoon boat, bathrooms are usually an optional feature. Not every model offers it, and those that do tend to cost more.
Think about how often you will really use it. Some owners love the added comfort. Others find it takes up space they would rather use for seating or storage.
It is also important to remember that toilets require regular cleaning and care. That is part of ownership that some people prefer to avoid.
Final Thoughts
So, do pontoon boats have bathrooms? Some do, but many do not. Most rental pontoons and standard models are built without them. Larger and more high end pontoons may include a small bathroom or portable toilet.
If a bathroom is important for your time on the water, ask before you rent or buy. If not, you can still enjoy a great day cruising, fishing, and relaxing on a pontoon boat in Richmond, MN.
With a little planning, either option can work well.