• FASTER AND MORE FUEL EFFICIENT

St-Joseph de Beauce (Québec), November 14th, 2006

Cruising at 45 mph, turning on a dime, crossing a wake without rocking, all this AND better fuel economy.  That’s what you get when your pontoon is equipped with 3 tubes.  «Thanks to our research, says Madame Danielle Roy, president of Pronaubec/Southland, we have optimised the configuration of what makes a pontoon unique: the tubes.  With the addition of a 3rd centre tube, of greater diameter than those on the sides, combined with performance kit –  similar to skis – at the bottom of the tubes, we can reach performance never seen before with a pontoon».

SPEED / FUEL
A third tube increases the pontoon’s ability to float, thus reducing friction.  Since the engine doesn’t have to work as hard, it doesn’t need as much fuel to operate.  We also wish to point out that the deck underside of a three-tube pontoon is covered with aluminium. Once again, by eliminating resistance caused by water hitting against the cross members, more fuel is saved.

Furthermore, the addition of a full-length aluminium ski on the lower part of the tubes, called a performance kit or lifting strakes, also raises the pontoon, allowing it to glide more easily and reach much higher speed, without negatively affecting fuel economy.

Of course, for higher speed and improved fuel economy, you have to choose the right engine. That is, an engine capable of delivering the kind of performance you want in terms of speed. If not, the engine will have to be pushed harder and will burn more fuel.

MANOEUVRABILITY
«Another result of our research, adds Pronaubec/Southland’s president, is that by installing a centre tube that is bigger than the side tubes, the pontoon achieves outstanding manoeuvrability for this type of craft.  Sharp turns are now possible without affecting engine performance».

It should also be said that installing a hydraulic steering system on a three-tube pontoon is a must. This steering system is, in part, a reason why manoeuvrability is improved.  You barely have to touch the steering wheel to make a smooth turn.

MORE STABILITY
The pontoon’s surprising stability is another advantage that has to do with the 3rd tube.  « You don’t rock when going over a speedboat’s wake.  It’s as if you’re hovering above the waves» says the company’s general manager, Mr. Louis Roy.

For more information, please click on the VIDEOS home page button (bottom right side) to see the video.

BEAUCE-MADE
It’s in the Beauce, in St. Joseph to be precise, that Pronaubec Inc. produces Southland pontoons. It’s a family business that centres its principles on excellence.  Since 1992, Pronaubec Inc. has succeeded in building pontoons that incorporate elegant design with reliable and sturdy construction.

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