Berkshire Pontoon: Comprehensive Guide to All Models & Specifications
Berkshire Pontoons, a division of Forest River, Inc., offers a wide range of pontoon boats designed to combine luxury, style, and top-quality construction techniques. Known for their commitment to continual improvement, Berkshire is backed by the financial stability of Berkshire Hathaway, ensuring customers that they are investing in a high-quality product.(source)
Among the various models available, Berkshire's signature CTS Series provides a diverse selection of floorplans with endless customizable options to suit individual preferences. Additionally, their newly introduced LE Series features value-minded pontoon boats built with the same high-quality materials found in their higher-end models(source).
Being an affordable and family-friendly manufacturer, Berkshire's pontoons are designed to accommodate a large number of passengers while still maintaining excellent performance in both fresh and saltwater environments (source). The combination of exceptional design, quality materials, and a diverse selection of models makes Berkshire Pontoon boats an ideal choice for those looking to enhance their on-water experience.
Berkshire Pontoon Model Line Overview
Berkshire Pontoon boats, a division of Forest River, Inc., offers a range of pontoon models catering to the diverse needs of boating enthusiasts. The model line includes the CTS Series, Sport Series, and Luxury Models. Each series has unique features and options to suit varying preferences and requirements.
CTS Series
The CTS Series by Berkshire Pontoon is designed for versatility, incorporating a wide range of floorplans. This feature-rich pontoon series can be personalized to suit individual needs with an extensive array of options. High-quality materials and excellent construction techniques ensure that these boats deliver both style and performance.
Sport Series
For boating enthusiasts seeking a sportier touch, the Sport Series offers an ideal choice. These pontoons integrate power, agility, and modern design to create thrilling and adventurous boating experiences. The Sport Series focuses on performance without compromising on comfort and functionality.
Luxury Models
Berkshire's Luxury Models provide indulgence and elegance on the water. Ranging from the LE Series 22RFX LE to other higher-end series, these pontoons are constructed with top-quality materials and techniques to deliver ultimate sophistication. These boats feature spacious interiors, premium upholstery, and modern amenities, ensuring a refined and lavish boating experience.
Top Features
Floorplans and Designs
Berkshire Pontoons offer a variety of floorplans and designs to meet diverse needs and preferences. Their CTS Series boasts a wide range of floorplans, allowing for endless customization and personalization. Each model is designed to maximize space, comfort, and functionality, ensuring a great experience for all passengers.
Touch Screen Controls and Helm
One of the standout features of Berkshire Pontoons is their state-of-the-art touch screen controls and helm. These advanced controls provide intuitive access to various boat functions, enhancing the boating experience for both the captain and passengers. Additionally, some Berkshire models are equipped with docking assistance cameras, making maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze.
Electronically-Operated Arches and Rear Views
Berkshire Pontoons take innovation a step further with their electronically-operated arches. These automatic arches provide shade and protection from the elements while adding a touch of luxury to the boat's design. Rear view cameras and monitoring systems are also available on some models, offering increased safety and visibility while on the water.
Color Options
When it comes to color and style, Berkshire Pontoons cater to a wide range of tastes. They offer various color options for both the exterior and the interior, allowing customers to choose the perfect combination that reflects their personal style. Many models also feature choices in flooring, including beige and gray vinyl weave options that are both attractive and easy to maintain.
Boating Experiences
Berkshire Pontoon offers a variety of boating experiences, catering to different preferences and needs. In this section, we will explore the performance and handling, cruising, entertainment, and fishing aspects of Berkshire Pontoon boats.
Performance and Handling
Berkshire Pontoons are known for their solid performance and handling capabilities. Built with quality construction techniques and materials, Berkshire boats provide a smooth and comfortable ride across the water. The manufacturer ensures that customers enjoy both speed and stability while onboard.
Their boats come with various design features that improve their performance, such as the BP1 package mentioned by a satisfied boat owner. Berkshire Pontoon models offer great maneuverability, allowing boaters to navigate with ease in different water conditions.
Cruise
Berkshire Pontoons are designed with cruising in mind. Many models have spacious decks and comfortable seating arrangements, making them ideal for leisurely cruising with family and friends. For instance, the base model comes with LED navigation lights and a low-back helm chair for the captain's comfort during cruises.
Soft vinyl weave flooring on many models not only provide an attractive finish but also offer durability and easy maintenance. Equipped with ample storage spaces and other amenities, Berkshire Pontoons keep the cruising experience enjoyable and hassle-free.
Entertain
Entertainment is another aspect where Berkshire Pontoons shine. With their spacious layouts and diverse seating arrangements, these boats can comfortably accommodate groups of people for socializing and relaxing on the water. Some models can hold up to 11 people, with a carrying capacity of 1,525 pounds, as mentioned here.
Many models come equipped with built-in features, such as cup holders, sound systems, and convenient access to storage compartments, all designed to enhance the entertaining experience onboard. From casual afternoon get-togethers to evening parties, Berkshire Pontoon boats provide a great space for hosting events and enjoying good company.
Fish
For anglers, Berkshire Pontoons offer great fishing experiences. There are models available with fishing-specific features such as rod holders, live wells, and fishing chairs. The spacious design of the pontoons allows anglers to move around freely, while the stable platform ensures a safe and comfortable fishing experience.
As a versatile watercraft option, Berkshire Pontoon boats cater to a wide range of boating preferences, ensuring that performance, cruising, entertainment, and fishing enthusiasts alike can find a model that suits their needs.
Enhancements and Customization
With a wide range of models and specifications, Berkshire Pontoon offers several options for enhancements and customization to cater to the unique needs and preferences of their customers. In this section, we will explore a few popular customizations, focusing primarily on cameras for safety and docking.
Cameras for Safety and Docking
One popular customization for Berkshire Pontoons is the addition of cameras to improve safety and ease of docking. These cameras can be mounted at various points on the pontoon, providing a clear view of the surrounding areas while navigating the water and docking at marinas.
Some benefits of installing cameras for safety and docking on a pontoon include:
- Increased situational awareness, helping to prevent collisions with other boats or obstacles
- Ability to monitor the condition of the pontoon and its passengers
- Simplified docking process by providing a better view of the docking area
There are various types of cameras available in the market that can be easily installed on a Berkshire Pontoon. Some popular options include:
| Type of Camera | Description |
|---|---|
| 360-degree Cameras | These cameras provide a complete view around the pontoon, allowing for better maneuvering and safety checks during docking. |
| Rearview Cameras | Installed at the back of the pontoon, these cameras help with reversing and docking, reducing the risk of collision with other boats or structures. |
| Underwater Cameras | These cameras offer a view beneath the pontoon's surface, useful for monitoring the integrity of the pontoon's structure and detecting submerged obstacles. |
When choosing a camera system for a Berkshire Pontoon, it is essential to consider factors such as camera resolution, durability, and integration with existing on-board electronics.
Notable Models
23RFX Arch STS
The 23RFX Arch STS is a standout model in the Berkshire Pontoons lineup. This boat is known for its excellent design and modern features, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
This pontoon boat is designed for both leisure and performance, with an electronically operated arch and color touch screen controls at the helm. Its innovative design allows for a great experience on the water, combining comfort with functionality.
Some key specifications of the 23RFX Arch STS include:
- Length: 23 feet
- Overall width: 8.5 feet
- Capacity: Up to 13 people
- Fuel capacity: 43 gallons
One of the most notable features of the 23RFX Arch STS is the rear-view camera system. This provides drivers with visual assistance when docking or maneuvering in tight areas, enhancing safety and ease of use.
Another unique characteristic of the 23RFX Arch STS is its performance capabilities. With the use of the sport-tuned aluminum underdeck, this model offers higher speed and improved handling for those who desire a more exhilarating experience on the water.
In addition to performance, the 23RFX Arch STS also focuses on comfort. With plush seating for up to 13 people, the boat makes for a cozy and pleasant ride for social gatherings or family outings. Other amenities include an upgraded sound system and ample storage space for both on-deck and below-deck items.
Overall, the 23RFX Arch STS is a fantastic representation of Berkshire Pontoons' dedication to producing high-quality pontoon boats. The model's perfect blend of performance, comfort, and modern features make it a well-rounded option for boating enthusiasts.
Berkshire Pontoon Dealerships
Berkshire Pontoon boats are known for their quality construction, high-end materials, and exceptional performance on the water. Dealerships in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Kentucky offer a wide variety of models and specifications to cater to every customer's needs.
Illinois
Several dealerships in Illinois carry Berkshire pontoons, providing customers with a range of options and an opportunity to view and test various models. Popular dealerships in Illinois include:
- ABC Marine
- Great Lakes Pontoons
Both dealerships offer Berkshire Pontoon enthusiasts access to the latest models and expert assistance in finding the perfect fit for their boating lifestyle.
Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, Berkshire Pontoon enthusiasts have multiple dealerships to choose from. Some prominent dealerships include:
- Lake Country Pontoons
- Wisconsin Watersports
These dealerships provide a wide selection of Berkshire Pontoon boats and help customers find the ideal model with the specifications they require for an enhanced boating experience.
Kentucky
Kentucky is home to several Berkshire Pontoon dealerships as well, catering to the needs of boating enthusiasts in the region. A couple of popular choices are:
- Bluegrass Pontoons
- Kentucky Lake Boats
Both Bluegrass Pontoons and Kentucky Lake Boats offer an extensive selection of Berkshire Pontoon models and dedicated customer service to help clients find the perfect boat to suit their needs and preferences.
Parent Companies
Berkshire Pontoons is a division of Forest River, Inc., which is a Berkshire Hathaway company. Forest River, Inc. was founded in 1996 and has grown to become one of the largest recreational vehicle manufacturers in the world. They have a wide range of RV products, including travel trailers, fifth wheels, and park models, under various brand names.
Forest River, Inc. operates under the guidance of Berkshire Hathaway, a multinational conglomerate holding company led by renowned investor Warren Buffett. Berkshire Hathaway has investments in various industries, such as insurance, energy, transportation, and manufacturing, to name a few.
As part of Forest River Marine, Berkshire Pontoons has been in production since 2009. The parent company, Forest River Marine, has been in operation since 1996, and their commitment to quality and innovation has had a significant impact on Berkshire Pontoons' success.
Being a part of such a large and diverse company like Forest River, Inc. has allowed Berkshire Pontoons to leverage resources and expertise from its parent company. This support has helped them in maintaining a commitment to producing high-quality pontoon boats while ensuring they remain at the forefront of advancements in pontoon boat technology and design.