Top 7 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Harris Pontoon

A family of five is cruising in their Harris Grand Mariner 250 pontoon boat at dusk on the lake. The pontoon has pink under deck LED lighting.
Harris Grand Mariner with underdeck LED lighting

Harris has been building quality pontoon boats for over 60 years, earning a reputation for craftsmanship, performance, and timeless design. Founded in 1957, Harris was one of the original innovators in the pontoon industry and continues to lead with award-winning engineering and customer-first design. With a legacy of premium boating experiences, Harris pontoons are built to elevate time on the water with family and friends. Their dedication to reliability and luxury has made them a trusted name for generations of boaters.

1. What makes Harris different from other pontoon brands?

Harris distinguishes itself in the pontoon market through a combination of innovative engineering, luxurious design, and a rich heritage. Their proprietary RPM Technology enhances ride, performance, and maneuverability, offering smoother acceleration and improved handling. The brand’s commitment to craftsmanship is evident in features like pressure-tested multi-chambered pontoons and watertight deck constructions, ensuring durability and safety. With nearly 70 years in the industry, Harris has a legacy of pioneering advancements, such as the first aluminum, wood-free transom and the introduction of the “dolphin-nose cone” design. This blend of tradition and innovation makes Harris an ideal choice for discerning boaters seeking reliability and sophistication.

2. What’s the difference between Harris pontoon models?

Grand Mariner

Harris’s premier luxury and performance model, the Grand Mariner offers bold, automotive-inspired styling, high-horsepower engine options (up to 300+ HP), and upscale features like digital helm systems, premium audio, and rear-facing lounges. It’s built for boaters who want top-tier luxury and power.

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Solstice

The Solstice delivers an ideal balance of performance, style, and technology. With advanced features like the PIII Performance Package, CZone digital controls, and flexible floorplans, it’s a versatile option for families who want comfort without sacrificing fun on the water.

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Cruiser

A more affordable luxury, the Cruiser is Harris’s most accessible model without compromising quality. It offers spacious layouts, comfortable seating, and reliable performance—perfect for relaxed cruising, first-time buyers, or anyone looking for a dependable pontoon with solid value.

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3. Does Harris offer any special features other brands don’t have?

Harris pontoons stand out with a variety of premium features that enhance performance, safety, and luxury — many of which are either exclusive to Harris or rare in the industry:

CZone® Digital Switching (Solstice)

An advanced digital control system that allows you to manage lighting, power, and onboard systems from a sleek touchscreen or mobile device — simplifying the boating experience with modern convenience.

Performance III (PIII) Package (Solstice, Grand Mariner)

Harris’s signature performance upgrade includes a third 25” center tube, full-length lifting strakes, and reinforced transoms — delivering better handling, faster planing, and increased horsepower capacity for watersports and high-speed cruising.

Rear-Facing Ultra Lounges (Grand Mariner)

One of the most popular luxury features on the Grand Mariner, these lounges convert multiple ways for ultimate relaxation and are ideal for entertaining or soaking up the sun at anchor.

Underdeck LED Lighting & Premium Audio (All Models)

Harris models offer ambient LED lighting packages and high-end audio systems from brands like JL Audio® — elevating your onboard experience with style and sound quality.

4. How much do Harris pontoons cost on average?

At Atwood Lake Boats, Harris pontoons range from approximately $34,000 to $175,000, depending on the model and options selected. Entry-level models like the Cruiser with minimal horsepower (such as a 9.9HP engine) offer an affordable way to get on the water. On the high end, fully-loaded Grand Mariner models with premium packages, high-performance engines, and luxury features can reach up to $175,000. Factors like engine size, performance packages, upholstery upgrades, tech options, and flooring all influence the final price — giving you the flexibility to build the boat that fits your lifestyle and budget.

5. How much does it cost to upkeep a Harris pontoon?

Maintenance costs for a Harris pontoon are relatively moderate compared to other types of boats, and we make it easy at Atwood Lake Boats with convenient fall service packages. Annual upkeep typically includes winterization, cleaning, storage, and spring launch prep — all of which are bundled in our service plans. For example:

 

  • Bronze Package: $1,253/year – includes haul-out, pontoon cleaning, motor winterization, shrink wrap, and free spring launch (ideal for Atwood Lake residents).
  • Silver Package: $1,382/year – adds outdoor storage to the Bronze plan.
  • Gold Package: $3,097–$3,332/year – includes everything in Silver plus seasonal docking at our marina (standard or premium slip).
  • Yacht Club Package: $1,502/year – tailored for Atwood Yacht Club members with custom pick-up and full seasonal service.

 

These packages simplify ownership and protect your investment, ensuring your Harris pontoon stays in top shape year after year.

Please note: The prices listed are accurate at the date of posting, but are subject to change. For up-to-date pricing, please visit our service packages page.

6. How long does a Harris pontoon last?

With proper care and maintenance, Harris pontoons typically last 15 to 20 years, though many far exceed that. At Atwood Lake Boats, we still service Harris models from the 1980s that are still cruising on Atwood Lake today — a testament to their long-term durability. Routine upkeep and seasonal service play a major role in maximizing lifespan, and because Harris pontoons use outboard motors, repowering can further extend the life of the boat. Harris backs this quality with a limited lifetime structural warranty and component warranties up to 10 years, giving buyers long-term peace of mind.

7. Is it hard to drive a Harris pontoon?

Harris pontoons are incredibly beginner-friendly, offering smooth handling and a stable ride that make them easy to drive — even for first-time boaters. Their wide platform provides excellent stability on the water, which helps reduce stress when docking or navigating tight areas. At Atwood Lake Boats, we include a complimentary on-the-water demo with every sale, right at our lakeside facility. One of our knowledgeable Demo Captains will take you and your crew out on your new pontoon and walk you through everything you need to know — making sure you feel confident before your first solo outing, even if you’ll be boating elsewhere.

Buying a Harris Pontoon at Atwood Lake Boats

If you’re looking for a pontoon that combines performance, comfort, and long-term value, Harris is one of the best in the business — and Atwood Lake Boats is proud to be your trusted local Harris dealer. With models like the Grand Mariner, Solstice, and Cruiser in stock, we’ll help you find the right fit for your lifestyle, needs, and budget. Every Harris purchase includes our complimentary on-the-water demo, where a knowledgeable Demo Captain will train your whole crew right here on Atwood Lake — even if you’ll be boating elsewhere.

We believe in transparent pricing with no surprises — that means no hidden freight or prep fees, and all required safety equipment and fuel are included in your price. The only additional charges are tax and title. We also offer financing options to make your Harris pontoon even more accessible. Let us help you get on the water smoothly and start making unforgettable memories with a boat you’ll love for years to come.

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