Yamaha brings more control to single-outboard pontoons
Yamaha Marine recently announced a new integrated control system it calls DockPoint Pontoon, which combines Yamaha Helm Master EX joystick outboard control with Jet Thruster technology that delivers full maneuverability for single-outboard pontoon boats.
The integration allows captains to use one joystick to move forward or reverse, move laterally, rotate in place and make precise adjustments during docking and other low-speed maneuvers.
“DockPoint Pontoon brings the outboard and thruster together through one intuitive control, allowing captains to move laterally, rotate in place and make precise adjustments with the joystick. It’s designed to make maneuvering a pontoon easier and give boaters greater control when they need it most,” says Cortlandt Minnich, product manager of outboard control systems for Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit.
How it works
Yamaha collaborated with Holland Marine Parts, maker of Jet Thruster, to integrate the company’s technology with Yamaha joystick control and a single outboard. The system coordinates the Yamaha outboard and the Jet Thruster automatically, directing power based on the joystick.
When the operator pushes the joystick sideways, the Yamaha outboard and the Jet Thruster work together to provide lateral movement, helping the captain line up with a dock, slip or trailer. Twisting the joystick coordinates the outboard and thruster to rotate the pontoon, making it easier to change direction or reposition longer pontoons in tight spaces or challenging winds.
Moving the joystick forward or backward uses the Yamaha outboard for propulsion, steering and speed control. DockPoint Pontoon also includes Joystick Hold for low-speed cruising. Beyond docking, DockPoint Pontoon gives captains precise joystick control whenever low-speed positioning is required.
Designed for OEM installation during pontoon manufacturing, DockPoint Pontoon arrives as a preassembled unit to streamline installation and rigging. The system is recommended for single-engine pontoons from 24 to 30 feet with Yamaha DEC/DES-equipped outboards from 150 to 450 horsepower and carries Yamaha’s standard three-year limited warranty.
DockPoint Pontoon will be available to pontoon manufacturers in 2027 for select 2028 model year pontoons.
