Top-Rated Luxury Seating Options for Manitou Pontoon Boats | Cruise in Comfort, Impress Your Guests & Relax Like Never Before
The moment you lean back in a plush chaise lounge, stretch your legs out, and feel the sun on your face while the lake drifts by—that’s when you realize not all boat seats are created equal.
TL;DR
Your Manitou deserves seating as impressive as its V-Toon performance. From switchback loungers that face forward or backward to tri-fold benches that transform into tables, modern Manitou models offer automotive-inspired luxury that rivals high-end sedans. This guide breaks down every seating option across the Cruise, Explore, LX, and XT lines, plus the Simtex vinyl that stays cool in the sun and the MAX Deck that adds up to 6 feet of lounge space at the stern.
Key Takeaways
- Switchback seating lets you flip backrests to face forward or aft—perfect for cruising then swimming
- Tri-fold benches convert from seat to table to open deck space in seconds
- Simtex vinyl stays 25 degrees cooler than standard marine vinyl and resists stains
- MAX Deck adds up to 38 square feet of stern space by hiding the engine underneath
- Helm chairs slide, swivel, and recline with bolstered lumbar support for all-day comfort
- Footrest extensions turn any seat into a true recliner
Why Luxury Seating Matters on a Manitou
Here’s the thing about performance pontoon boats—you spend more time on them. Longer cruises, full-day swim excursions, sunset dinner trips that stretch into evening. That means your backside needs support that lasts.
Manitou knows this. That’s why modern models feature automotive-inspired seating with memory foam, ergonomic contours, and premium vinyl that won’t bake you in the summer sun.
Have you ever shifted positions a dozen times during a long boat ride because the seat just wasn’t right? That doesn’t happen on a well-equipped Manitou.
The good news? Whether you’re buying new or upgrading an older boat, Manitou offers seating configurations for every need—from party barges with 15-person capacity to intimate lounges for sunset cruising.
The Evolution of Manitou Seating: From Basic Benches to Luxury Lounges
Manitou has completely reimagined pontoon seating over the years. Here’s how:
1986 — Manitou founded. Basic bench seating. Comfort meant a cushion on plywood.
1990s — Individual lounges appear. Still basic vinyl and foam.
2000s — Chaise lounges become standard on premium models. More padding, better contours.
2010s — Switchback seating launches. Backrests that flip forward or backward change everything .
2020–2023 — Simtex cool-touch vinyl becomes standard. No more burned thighs on sunny days .
Today — Modern Manitou boats feature MAX Deck stern lounges, power-adjustable helm chairs, and memory foam throughout .
Switchback Seating: The Versatility Game-Changer
The most innovative seating option on modern Manitous is Switchback seating. These lounges feature backrests that can be easily flipped to face either forward or backward .
How It Works
Each switchback lounge has a backrest that lifts out and reverses direction. Want to face the bow while cruising? Flip the backrest forward. Anchored at the sandbar and want to watch the action behind the boat? Flip it backward.
On the Cruise 22 MAX, three chaises in the stern feature switchback capability—the two rear lounges plus the co-captain’s chair can all be repositioned . The Explore 24 Max Navigator takes this further with switchback lounges throughout the boat .
Have you ever sat backward on a boat while it was moving and felt every bump? Switchback seating means you never have to—just flip the seat around.
Where You’ll Find Switchback Seating
| Model | Switchback Locations | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise 22 MAX | Two stern lounges + co-captain chair | Family cruising, swimming parties |
| Explore 22 +4 Switchback | Full lounge suite | Versatile entertaining |
| Explore 24 Max Navigator | Multiple chaise lounges | Luxury day boating |
The Explore 22 +4 Switchback model (priced from $179,300 in Australia) includes the special lounge that can face forward or aft, plus a tri-fold bench seat that converts to a table .
Tri-Fold Seating: Three Functions in One
Another clever seating innovation is the tri-fold bench. This 3-in-1 design serves as :
- A bench seat for passengers
- A table for dining or games
- Open deck space when folded flat
On the Explore 24 Max Navigator, the tri-fold bench is located to starboard (right side) and provides incredible flexibility for changing needs throughout the day .
Here’s a question—how many times have you wished for a table on your boat, but didn’t want to give up the seating? The tri-fold solves that.
MAX Deck: The Stern Revolution
One of Manitou’s most unique features isn’t seating inside the boat—it’s the MAX Deck at the stern .
What Is the MAX Deck?
The MAX Deck is an extended swim platform that adds up to 38 square feet of usable space at the back of the boat . It works by hiding the outboard engine underneath the deck, freeing up space that’s normally cluttered by the motor.
“Consumers love how much space the MAX Deck provides at the stern of the boat (up to 6 feet of additional space) that was previously cluttered or taken up by the engine,” said Jason Rick, senior product analyst at Manitou .
Stern Seating on the MAX Deck
The MAX Deck isn’t just empty space. Combined with rear-facing switchback loungers, it creates the ultimate party zone:
“The best feature of the Cruise 22 MAX is the MAX Deck at the stern of the boat. Combined with the rear Switchback Loungers with back rests that can be adjusted to be rear facing, there is no better seat on the boat than looking out over the water from the MAX Deck.” — Jason Rick, Manitou
MAX Deck Features
- Four-step boarding ladder for easy water access
- Ski pylon integrated into the deck
- LinQ attachment points for clip-in coolers and accessories
- Unobstructed water views from the rear-facing seats
- Up to 6 feet of additional deck space compared to traditional pontoons
The MAX Deck is available on models powered by the Rotax S outboard engine, which sits flat under the deck rather than sticking up like traditional motors .
Simtex Vinyl: Cool-Touch Comfort
All modern Manitou models come standard with Simtex vinyl seating . This isn’t your grandfather’s boat vinyl.
Why Simtex Matters
Traditional marine vinyl gets hot in the sun. Really hot. Like “ouch, I just burned my thigh” hot. Simtex uses a proprietary cool-touch technology that stays significantly cooler—up to 25 degrees cooler than standard vinyl .
“I was wearing shorts and didn’t notice my skin glued to the material when I stood or shifted my position,” one reviewer noted after testing a 2023 Manitou Explore .
Additional Benefits
- Easy to clean — sunscreen, spills, and dirt wipe right off
- Stain resistant — red wine and ketchup don’t leave permanent marks
- UV resistant — won’t crack or fade after multiple seasons
- Soft to the touch — feels like premium automotive leather
The two-tone gray vinyl on many models features stitched-in logos, leg bolsters, and lumbar support for a truly premium feel .
Helm and Navigator Chairs: Command Center Comfort
The captain’s seat gets more use than any other on the boat. Manitou has paid serious attention to helm comfort.
Standard Helm Features
- Slides forward and backward for legroom adjustment
- Swivels to face passengers when anchored
- Reclines with adjustable back angle
- Bolsters for thigh support on longer runs
- Lumbar support built into the backrest
Premium Upgrades
The Signature bundle for Explore models adds a high-backed helm chair with bolster — perfect for standing while docking or navigating shallow water .
The navigator’s seat (passenger side) matches the helm chair in comfort, with similar slide and recline adjustments .
Here’s a question—have you ever driven a boat where the seat didn’t quite fit your height? The slide adjustment fixes that for drivers from 5’6″ to 6’4″.
Chaise Lounges: Stretch Out and Relax
For true relaxation, nothing beats a chaise lounge. These long seats let you stretch your legs out fully—like a pool lounger on the water.
Bow Lounges
The front of most Manitou models features two chaise lounges flanking the bow entry. On the Cruise 22 MAX, these lounges provide plush, reclined seating with excellent water views .
Stern Lounges
The rear of the boat features additional chaises. On the Cruise 22 MAX, three chaise lounges in the stern give every passenger the opportunity to recline .
Footrest Extensions
Manitou offers an optional footrest extension that turns any seat into a true recliner. “Footrest extension to create a true recliner feel on board,” according to the product description . This accessory mounts to existing seats and pulls out when you want to stretch.
LX Series Seating: Removable Bow Covers
The LX series offers a unique seating accessory: a removable bow seat cover . This practical seat completely covers the bow seats when not in use, protecting the vinyl from sun damage and bird droppings.
For owners who store their boats uncovered or spend a lot of time at docks, this simple accessory extends the life of bow seating significantly.
Seating Configurations by Model
Cruise Series
The Cruise range focuses on family-friendly comfort with generous seating throughout .
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Switchback seating | Yes (stern chaises) |
| Helm slide/swivel/recline | Yes |
| Simtex vinyl | Standard |
| MAX Deck | On MAX models |
| Passenger capacity | 10-11 |
The Cruise 22 Switchback Twin Tube accommodates 11 passengers with plush seating throughout .
Explore Series
The Explore range is the luxury leader, with premium seating as standard .
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Switchback seating | Yes (multiple locations) |
| Tri-fold bench/table | Yes |
| High-back helm chair | Optional (Signature bundle) |
| Simtex vinyl | Standard |
| MAX Deck | Available |
| Passenger capacity | 10-15 |
The Explore 24 Max Navigator features switchback lounges with adjustable backrests throughout, plus the tri-fold 3-in-1 bench .
LX and XT Series
The premium LX and XT ranges offer the most luxurious seating with additional customization options .
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Cool-touch vinyl | Standard |
| Memory foam padding | Optional |
| Heated seats | Available on XT |
| Power-adjustable helm | Available |
| Passenger capacity | 13-16 |
The XT range is the flagship with “super luxury coupled with excellent performance,” including sophisticated electronics and premium seating throughout .
LinQ Accessory System: Customizable Storage
While not seating itself, the LinQ system dramatically improves how you use your seating space .
Developed by BRP (Manitou’s parent company), LinQ uses quick-release attachment points throughout the deck. You can clip in:
- Coolers — keep drinks cold without taking up seat space
- Cargo boxes — store extra gear out of the way
- Rod holders — for fishing setups
- Soft bags — for towels and dry clothes
On the MAX Deck, a LinQ attachment point is integrated directly into the platform, freeing up space inside the boat while still keeping drinks close at hand .
Comparison Table: Luxury Seating by Manitou Series
| Feature | Cruise | Explore | LX | XT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Switchback seating | Yes (stern) | Yes (multiple) | Optional | Yes |
| Tri-fold bench/table | No | Yes | Optional | Yes |
| Simtex cool-touch vinyl | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| MAX Deck available | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Helm slide/swivel/recline | Standard | Standard | Standard | Power option |
| Footrest extension | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional |
| Memory foam padding | No | Optional | Optional | Standard |
| Passenger capacity | 10-11 | 10-15 | 13-15 | 13-16 |
| Removable bow cover | No | No | Yes | Optional |
Seating Comfort Features Comparison
This chart shows how different seating features score on passenger comfort. Higher scores mean better comfort.
Care and Maintenance for Luxury Seating
Your premium seating will last for years with proper care. Here’s what Manitou recommends.
Daily Care
- Wipe down seats after each use with a damp cloth to remove sunscreen, sweat, and lake water
- Dry completely before covering the boat
- Remove wet life jackets and towels from seat storage—never store wet gear inside
Deep Cleaning
For light soiling, use a solution of one part dish soap to nine parts warm water. For heavier stains, Formula 409 or Fantastik diluted 1:1 with water works. Rinse thoroughly after any cleaning .
What to Avoid
- Harsh chemicals like acetone, Pine-Sol, or citrus-based cleaners
- Abrasive pads or steel wool
- Pressure washers — they damage vinyl seams
- Silicone-based products — they attract dirt
Protection
Apply a vinyl protectant like 303 Aerospace Protectant every few weeks during the season. This adds UV blocking that prevents cracking and fading.
Pro tip—the best protection is a mooring cover when the boat isn’t in use. Sun damage is cumulative and irreversible.
FAQ: Your Manitou Seating Questions Answered
What makes Manitou pontoon boats unique for seating comfort?
Manitou’s patented Switchback seating lets you flip backrests to face forward or backward, and the MAX Deck hides the engine to create up to 6 feet of additional stern lounge space .
What is Simtex vinyl and why is it better?
Simtex is a cool-touch marine vinyl that stays up to 25 degrees cooler than standard vinyl in direct sun. It’s also stain-resistant and easy to clean .
Can I add switchback seating to an older Manitou?
Switchback seating requires specific mounting hardware and is typically factory-installed. Consult your dealer about retrofitting.
What’s the most comfortable seat on a Manitou?
The helm chair with slide, swivel, and recline adjustments offers the most support for long days. For passengers, the stern switchback lounges facing the MAX Deck are the most popular .
How many people can fit on a Manitou pontoon?
Capacity ranges from 10 to 16 passengers depending on the model and seating configuration .
What is the tri-fold bench?
A 3-in-1 seat that converts from a bench to a table to open deck space. Standard on Explore models .
Does the MAX Deck have seating?
The MAX Deck itself is open space, but it pairs with rear-facing switchback lounges that look out over the deck. This creates a premium stern entertainment area .
The Bottom Line on Manitou Luxury Seating
You didn’t buy a Manitou to sit on hard benches. Modern Manitou seating rivals high-end automotive interiors for comfort, adjustability, and material quality.
If you’re buying new: Look for models with Simtex vinyl (standard across all lines) and consider Explore or XT series for switchback seating and tri-fold benches.
If you’re upgrading an older boat: Focus on adding a footrest extension to existing seats and using quality vinyl protectant. The removable bow cover for LX models is a great accessory for sun protection.
One last thought—the best seat on any Manitou is the one facing the water with your legs stretched out. Whether that’s a bow chaise, a stern switchback, or the MAX Deck lounge, Manitou has figured out how to give everyone that view.
What’s your favorite Manitou boat feature or on-the-water experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
References:
- Les Plaisanciers Magazine – Manitou Explore 24 Max Navigator Review
- Boatsales – Manitou Launched in Australia
- NauticExpo – Manitou Footrest Extension
- Pontoon & Deck Boat Magazine – 2025 Manitou Cruise 22 MAX Review
- GearJunkie – 2023 Manitou Explore Review
- NauticExpo – Manitou Removable Bow Seat Cover
- Boatzon – Manitou Pontoon Overview
- Lockhart’s Odyssey – 2025 Manitou Cruise 22 Switchback
