2023 Avalon Waketoon Review - Best of Both Worlds Pontoon Surf Boat?

Introduction to the Avalon Waketoon

The Avalon Waketoon is an exciting new pontoon boat that combines the best features of traditional pontoon boats and surf boats. This innovative hybrid design makes the Waketoon perfect for buyers looking for a versatile watercraft that can handle recreation and watersports with ease. Keep reading to learn more about this unique boat and see if the Avalon Waketoon might be the right choice for you.

What is the Avalon Waketoon?

Avalon is a leading pontoon boat manufacturer that has been producing high-quality boats for over 50 years. The company's newest model, the Avalon Waketoon, was introduced for the 2023 model year as a crossover between their pontoon boats and surf boats.

The Waketoon has a pontoon-style hull with two aluminum tubes connected by a flat deck. However, it also features attributes more commonly found on wake surf boats. This includes rear ballast tanks, integrated wake shaping devices, and a more substantial overall size and weight capacity.

In this way, the Waketoon aims to provide the stability and comfort of a pontoon boat with the wake surfing abilities of a dedicated wake boat. It's an intriguing option for buyers looking for that hybrid pontoon/surf boat experience.

Key Features and Benefits

The Avalon Waketoon comes loaded with features that make it appealing as both a family-friendly cruiser and a wake sport boat. Some of the most notable aspects include:

• Ballast tanks - Rear ballast tanks can be filled with water to weigh down the stern for better wake production. Around 2,000 pounds of ballast capacity.
• Wake shapers - Integrated wake plates and wake tabs help shape and enhance the wake for surfing.
• More power - Can be equipped with up to 400 HP outboard for excellent performance. 25+ MPH top speeds.
• Spacious layouts - Numerous seating options with room for 14+ passengers comfortably. Chaise lounge seats and rear-facing seating.
• Premium stereo - High-end Bluetooth stereo with speakers throughout the boat.
• Convenient access - Multiple access gates and boarding ladders make getting in and out simple.

In addition to these highlights, the Waketoon retains core features of traditional pontoon boats like abundant storage, vinyl flooring, and readily customizable options and layouts. The end result is a boat that offers pontoon practicality and comfort with wake boat capabilities.

Performance

One area where the Avalon Waketoon distinguishes itself is performance. The Waketoon can reach speeds over 25 MPH when powered by larger outboard engines up to 400 horsepower. This is faster than most comparable sized pontoon boats.

The Waketoon hull has also been specially engineered to optimize wake production when loaded down with ballast and passengers. This enables riders to generate that signature curling wake wave needed for wake surfing and other tow-sports.

Between the speed, power, and purpose-built hull design, the performance is certainly more on par with a high-end wake boat than a typical family pontoon. Yet it retains the stability and ease-of-use pontoons are known for.

Costs and Pricing

As a crossover model with more features, the Avalon Waketoon sits at a higher price point than traditional recreational pontoons. Base prices start around $80,000 to $100,000. Fully outfitting one with the largest engine, wake accessories, and high-end upgrades can bring the total to $150,000 or more.

While not cheap, this pricing is comparable to other mid- to high-end wake surf boats. So buyers get wake boat performance and luxury appointments for a similar cost, while also getting the versatility and accessibility of the pontoon configuration.

Is the Avalon Waketoon Right for You?

The unique design of the Avalon Waketoon makes it a great option for certain buyers, while others may be better served with a traditional pontoon or dedicated wake boat. Here are a few things to consider about whether the Waketoon is right for your needs:

• Ideal for wake sports enthusiasts who also want to cruise and entertain - The Waketoon is perfect for buyers who want to surf, ski, tube, or wakeboard behind their boat, while also having capacity for passengers and cruising comfort.
• Provides more versatility than a wake boat - Its pontoon configuration makes the Waketoon more accessible for swimming, lounging, and general recreation than a typical wake boat with limited space beyond the cockpit.
• Roomy layout works well for larger groups and families - With spacious layouts and capacity for 14+ people, the Waketoon works better for groups than most single-hull wake boats.
• Requires some compromise compared to a purpose-built wake boat - It won't generate quite as clean and crisp of a wake wave as the very best surf boats, so hardcore wake enthusiasts may want a dedicated wake boat.
• More expensive than entry-level pontoons - Buyers looking for the most affordable option for basic cruising may want to look at cheaper traditional pontoons rather than the higher-end Waketoon.

The right choice ultimately comes down to your priorities and needs. The Avalon Waketoon is uniquely positioned as a crossover model if you want both family-friendly entertaining space and serious wake sport performance.

Where to Buy the Avalon Waketoon

The Avalon Waketoon is sold through Avalon's network of authorized dealers, making your local pontoon and boat dealer a good place to start your search. Dealers can provide pricing details for available inventory, as well as ordering a new build.

Redhead Powersports in Saskatchewan is one dealer that stocks Avalon models like the Waketoon. Their friendly staff can answer any questions you have about the Waketoon and let you test ride one. Use the Avalon dealer locator to find other options in your area.

The Waketoon's unique abilities and appeal make it worth a look for serious water sports enthusiasts who want pontoon boat versatility. Visit your local dealer to check out the Avalon Waketoon for yourself and take one for a ride.

FAQs

How big is the Avalon Waketoon?

The Waketoon comes in lengths from 24 to 28 feet. Maximum capacity ranges from 14 to 18 passengers depending on the model.

What kind of performance does the Waketoon have?

With up to 400 HP outboards, the Waketoon can reach top speeds over 25 MPH. The hull is engineered for wake surfing when loaded with ballast and passengers.

How stable is the Waketoon?

The twin pontoon hull design provides excellent stability, especially at rest or lower speeds. This enhances the safety and accessibility that pontoons are known for.

Can you customize the Waketoon's layout?

Yes, Avalon offers customizable seating, accent panels, and other options to personalize the Waketoon's layout to match your needs.

What is the starting price for the Waketoon?

Base MSRP pricing starts around $80,000 and can exceed $150,000 for fully loaded models with the largest engines and premium accessories.