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If you spend considerable time exploring the waters on your pontoon, you may have experienced a scenario where you’ve run out of drinks or snacks. This can be problematic, especially when navigating through open water and going back to shore for a refill is not a viable option.
One solution is to bring along a cooler table on your boat. These tables feature a storage compartment beneath the tabletop, serving as a cooler to store refreshments. The top of the table can function as a conventional table or may even include drink holders.
In this article, I will discuss pontoon cooler tables and their benefits while boating for extended periods. I will also highlight some of the best cooler tables available in the market. Let’s get started.
Pontoon Cooler Tables: A Drink within Your Reach
A pontoon cooler table is a compact device that combines a cooler with a table, designed specifically for use on pontoon boats. The cooler component of the table is used to store drinks and food, keeping them cold while out on the water. The table component provides a convenient and stable surface for enjoying food, drinks, or playing games while on the boat.
The storage compartment of a pontoon cooler table has ample space to accommodate a large amount of ice, effectively preserving the freshness of your food and keeping your drinks cold during extended water excursions.
In addition, some cooler tables feature cup holders integrated into the top of the unit, providing a practical solution to hold two to four glasses securely. While this might seem a simple solution, it’s significant on a boat, especially in wavey conditions.
Why Should You Consider a Cooler Table for Your Pontoon?
Apart from keeping your food fresh and drinks chilled, the cooler tables can be beneficial in a lot of ways: Let’s take a look:
1. Convenience
The most significant advantage of having a cooler table on your boat is the convenience it brings. Forget about getting up whenever you need a bite or a chilled beer. With this table, everything is within your reach, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time on the water. Additionally, some cooler tables have cup holders built into them, making it easier to keep your drinks steady while on the boat.
2. Space
A cooler table can save you a lot of valuable deck space on your pontoon. Not only does it improve functionality, but it does it without taking up much space. These coolers double as a table, usually equipped with cup holders on top, or can be extended in length to work as a regular table.
Without it, you will need a table and a cooler for the same purpose that will use up a lot of space on your boat. A cooler table is a single piece of furniture that can work as a table while keeping your food and drinks fresh.
3. Multipurpose Use
A cooler table can also be used for other activities during a long water journey. While it’s made to store and serve food/drinks, you can also use it to keep your belongings, play board games, cards, etc.
Basically, whatever you can do on the flat hard surface can be done on a pontoon cooler table.
4. Boating Experience
Finally, a pontoon cooler table is an excellent investment for anyone who spends much time on their boat. It’s a functional and stylish addition that can enhance the overall experience of being out on the water. With a pontoon cooler table, you can spend more time relaxing, entertaining, and making memories with family and friends.
Here is an example of how the cooler table can be useful for you:
Best Pontoon Cooler Tables 2023
1. Coleman Xtreme Portable Cooler
Let’s start with the best one. Coleman Xtreme Marine Portable Cooler is a reliable and durable cooler for marine activities. The main selling point of this cooler is that it can keep the ice frozen for up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90°F due to its insulated lid and extra wall insulation.
This cooler has a 100-quart capacity that can hold up to 130 cans, making it ideal for large groups or families. The Have-A-Seat lid can support up to 250 lbs, and it has molded cup holders to keep drinks within reach and prevent spills. The cooler’s dimensions are 36.5 x 16.75 x 18.25 inches, and it weighs 33.1 lbs, making it extremely easy to fit into the small space on your pontoon boat.
2. Rubbermaid Slim Cooler
Rubbermaid Briefcase Cooler is an innovative and compact cooler that is ideal for those who want to maximize the space in their pontoons. Its superior thermal retention ensures that your beverages and food stay cold for extended periods, making it an ideal companion for a single-day boat trip. It features a compact size of 15.5″ L x 9.875″ W x 14″ H that can fit into the smallest pontoons.
The cooler also features a split lid with convenient cup holders that provide easy access to food and drinks, and the padded shoulder strap makes it easy to carry. The compact size makes it easy to transport. You put it in the front during the party or adjust it between the seats.
3. Nice C Table with Cooler
The Nice C collapsible table features a large capacity cooler at the bottom with an insulated casing, top storage for four drinks, and a large pocket for snacks and other items.
Its collapsible feature makes it easy to transport with a bag for storage, and its waterproof and easy-to-clean design makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as the beach and boating. It’s a lightweight and compact table with 4 “D x 6” W x 31 “H dimensions, making it easy to carry at a boat party.
To make things exciting, the company provides you with a 30-day money-back guarantee if the product doesn’t satisfy you in any way.
4. Keter Outdoor Table with Cooler
The portable Keter outdoor bar table doubles as a hidden cooler with a 7.5-gallon capacity, holding up to forty 12 oz. cans. Its lid elevates ten inches above the rim, making it an ideal height for use as a hot tub table. The thick exterior resin makes it weather-resistant, preventing rusting, peeling, and denting, and the built-in drainage plug ensures easy cleanup.
The measurements of the Keter outdoor table are 19.5″ x 19.5″ x 33.2″ (when it’s open), and it can easily be taken to a pontoon of any size and capacity. Its unique rattan design and convenient built-in handles make it one of the most attractive coolers on the market. The hinged lid with a secure latch ensures easy access to your drinks, while the built-in drainage plug makes it easy to clean and maintain.
Buying Guide: What to Look for In a Cooler Table
If you’re in the market for a pontoon cooler table, there are several factors you should consider before making your purchase. Here’s a buying guide to help you choose the best cooler table for your needs:
- Size: Make sure to measure the available space on your pontoon boat to determine the ideal size of the cooler table. If you want to fit it between the seats, try to be accurate with the measurements. There are a few things to keep in mind when looking for a suitable table:
- Size of the boat
- Number of people who will be using the table
- The amount of food and drinks you want to store.
- Build Quality: Cooler tables come in different materials, including plastic, metal, and wood. It’s advisable to choose a heavier table as it will provide you with the necessary stability, especially during harsh water conditions.
- Design and Stability: You can try to find a cooler table that matches the aesthetics and style of your pontoon. Some tables come with added features such as umbrella holes or additional cup holders. Also, ensure the table is and doesn’t tip over, especially in rough water conditions. Check for features such as non-slip feet or adjustable legs that can help stabilize the table.
- Price and Brand: Due to the increasing demand, several boat manufacturers now offer them as a permanent fixture for your pontoon. However, purchasing a cooler table from a third-party seller is often more practical and cost-effective, even if it doesn’t perfectly match your boat’s style.
These tables come at various price points, so it’s essential to consider your budget and look for a table that offers good value for money. You can find a wide range of options available, with prices ranging from $50 to $300.
Conclusion
Cooler tables may not be a revolutionary invention, but they can undoubtedly improve your boating experience by providing a convenient space to store your refreshments.
The tables mentioned in this article are compatible with most types of pontoon boats. So assess your requirements, consider your budget, and choose the cooler table that best suits your needs.
