Are you a proud owner of a Pontoon Boat like a Bennington, Sun Tracker, Manitou, or Avalon? If your vessel sits unused, consider donating it to TuneIn Rides in Nashville. Our program enables you to transform your boat into a charitable contribution, supporting local communities and lake-life enthusiasts. In Nashville's vibrant lake culture, many families cherish the joy of spending time on the water, making your donation vital for expanding these experiences for others.
When donating a Pontoon Boat, we understand that hours of use rather than mileage are a better measure of your boat’s value. Whether you have a family-friendly bitoon or a performance-driven tritoon, with trailer inclusion, your donation can significantly impact the recreation pipeline. Plus, you'll help fellow lake-property owners as they transition from their beloved boats to new adventures in life.
📖Generation guide
Bitoon (2-log) • 1980s-2026
Traditional family pontoons ranging from 18-24 ft, typically powered by 90-150hp outboards like Mercury or Yamaha, ideal for leisurely lake outings.
Tritoon (3-log) • 2010-2026
Premium performance pontoons from 22-28 ft designed for speed (25-40 mph), equipped with 150-300hp engines, offering superior stability and handling.
Classic Pontoons • 1980s-2000s
Older models often require vinyl furniture reupholstering and maintenance, appealing to collectors and families seeking nostalgia.
Known issues by generation
Models in the bitoon category typically face challenges such as lower speed capability (18-22 mph), vinyl furniture sun-fade requiring reupholstering every 5-7 years, and marine-grade carpet replacement due to mildew. Tritoon models, while offering higher performance, can experience log denting or leaks from impacts, necessitating weld-seal repairs. Bottom-paint for saltwater use and wear on lift canopies are important considerations for maintenance, along with ensuring that the deck materials and substructure are in good condition, particularly for older models.
Donation value by condition + generation
Donation values for pontoons vary significantly based on condition, hours of use, and additional features. Low-hour models with well-maintained electronics can command values from $15k-$80k, especially if trailer inclusion adds $2k-$5k to the value. For donations above $5k, we recommend a surveyor inspection ($300-$500) to validate the valuation according to BUC, NADA Marine, and Kelley Blue Book Marine standards. This ensures that your generous contribution is properly acknowledged and maximized for charitable deduction purposes.
Donation process for this model
To donate your pontoon, start by locating the Hull Identification Number (HIN) on the starboard transom and the motor-engine serial numbers, as they are essential for the donation paperwork. Depending on your state, boats may have USCG documentation or may be state-titled. Remember that trailers often have separate VINs and require separate handling. Providing service history through records like BoatU.S. or Sea Tow can also enhance the donation's value. For high-value donations, a surveyor inspection is advisable, and we can assist with logistics for winter storage pickup if necessary.
Nashville regional notes
Nashville’s lakefront lifestyle offers unique opportunities for pontoon owners. Many residents enjoy the scenic beauty and recreational activities along the local lakes. With the retirement and downsizing trends, there’s a growing number of lake-house owners ready to part with their boats. This shift creates an ideal environment for donations, as more families are seeking to experience the joys of lake recreation. Whether you're a Florida snowbird or a mountain states empty-nester, your pontoon can continue to bring joy to others.