The pontoon boat was invented by Ambrose Weeres in 1951, in the town of Richmond. The idea came about when a friend asked Ambrose to create a contraption out of tubes and oil barrels that would float in water. Ambrose successfully constructed the boat-like structure, and it was sold before he had the chance to name it! The first boat was christened as “The Empress.” WHO INVENTED THE PONTOON BOAT?

WEERES INDUSTRIES In 1952, Ambrose founded Weeres Industries which led to a rise in the demand for these iconic yet simple boats. As the demand for these boats grew, Weeres aimed to improve them, turning them into ideal family-sized boats. Shortly after their creation, the Winona Daily News named the Weeres pontoon boat “Boat of the Year” in 1955.

FAME For AMBROSE WEERES In 1990, Minnesota State Legislature issued a resolution that stated that Ambrose Weeres was officially recognized as the inventor of the pontoon boat and was subsequently elected into the Minnesota Marina Hall of Fame in July Ambrose was dubbed “Mr. Pontoon,” a nickname that stayed with him until his death in 1991.

CHANGES AND IMPROVEMENT As the popularity of Weeres’ pontoon boats increased, a number of other entrepreneurs were coming up with various ways to improve the existing pontoon. In 1957, a rival company made changes to the design and feel of the pontoon by adding the following: Protective fences to prevent anyone from falling off of the boat. A motor mount to raise and lower the motor. Aesthetically pleasing tubes instead of airplane barrels. The 1960’s brought about upholstered pontoon furniture and seats.

INFLUENTIAL PONTOON DESIGNERS As the demand for pontoon boats increased, many influential companies decided to join in on the craze. Each manufacturer brought forward a new design element that set the new boat apart from its predecessor. In 1958, the world’s first pontoon boat was created and presented at the World's Fair in Chicago. This new design caused a spike in the demand for pontoon boats and played an influential role in boosting a countrywide demand for the boats.

THE EVOLUTION OF THE PONTOON BOAT From a floating barge to a unique, innovative and luxurious vessel, the evolution of the pontoon has gone from strength to strength. Today, the pontoon is used as a platform from which to soak up the summer sun, cast a fishing line or spend hours on end relaxing and entertaining friends and family. Pontoon boats are now available in a variety of designs – from simple to luxurious and trendy. These modern-day marvels can even travel at 60 mph on the open water, which provides an ample amount of luxury and speed!

FEATURES OF MODERN PONTOON BOATS Modern pontoon boatsModern pontoon boats are equipped with numerous features, including: Hydraulic Power Assist Steering A 300HP Power Engine High-tech amenities such as cell phone outlet, USB functionality, and advanced audio Energy-saving LED lighting

FROM SIMPLE TO LUXURIOUS Today, pontoon boats are equipped with luxury fittings and accessories that make the vessel unique. These features can include: On-board carpets A beverage and food cooler Dinette table(s) Fully upholstered luxury furniture A fully equipped sound system that supports various multimedia

CONTACT US Manitou Pontoon Boats is a leading pontoon manufacturer with countless awards behind their name. With new V-Toon® technology, Manitou is an innovative and modern manufacturer that offers top-quality pontoons. If you are looking for state-of-the-art pontoons, visit or give Manitou a call at

SUMMARY From a simple barge to a luxury vessel, pontoon boats boast an interesting history. Created in 1951, the pontoon boat has traveled a unique journey that tells a tale of dynamic innovation and entrepreneurship. Read through the history of the pontoon boat here.