Elkhart, Ind. – Godfrey Marine, manufacturer of premium Godfrey pontoon boats and Hurricane deck boats, and legendary innovator in versatile pontoon boat designs, announced today that its 2026 Godfrey Sanpan has been named Boat of the Year in the Pontoon Category by Boating Magazine.
Every year the editorial team tests more than 100 new boats and selects those that stand out from the pack. Selected for its new center tube design, SeaView Bow Gate, Click & Cruise railing, and other features that enhance the on-water experience, the Godfrey Sanpan earned top honors in the pontoon category. The recognition underscores Godfrey’s commitment to blending cutting-edge engineering with comfort and style for unforgettable days on the water. As a category winner, the Sanpan 2500 ULW will be entered into consideration for Boating Magazine’s overall Boat of the Year, which will be announced during the 2026 Miami International Boat Show.
“We’re honored to be recognized by the team at Boating Magazine as the Boat of the Year in the Pontoon Category,” said Lori Szczypiorski, Godfrey Director of Product & Marketing. “Our refreshed full 2026 lineup of 21 models of Sanpan delivers new features and thoughtful design to make every moment on the water exceptional.”
Building on a legacy of durability, the refreshed Sanpan models introduce elevated comfort and versatility with enhanced features from bow to stern. Whether used for cruising, visiting the sandbar, or enjoying watersports activities, the Sanpan models provide an exceptional experience and comfort for the entire family.
Key 2026 Sanpan features include:
- A new center tube and centrally positioned fuel tank improves flotation, performance and carrying capacity.
- NytCruz Auto Navigation and Anchor Lights automatically turn on when needed, allowing boaters to spend less time managing controls and more time enjoying the water.
- The ergonomically designed furniture paired with Soft Touch vinyl adds comfort, while the Cool Touch seating options keep seat surfaces comfortable under the sun. In addition, there is a new heated and cooled helm seat option for all season enjoyment.
- Built with precision and purpose, the redesigned rail frame combines sleek, modern aesthetics with durability to deliver a secure, stable ride while elevating the overall look of the boat.
- The updated helm offers a 12-inch multifunction display, intuitive digital switching with all lighting controls on one screen, and a custom user interface. For frequently used functions, Godfrey has added six tactile push buttons for the perfect blend of modern technology and practical design, offering smooth, effortless operation of every boat function.
- An innovative push-button entry door system opens smoothly and secures firmly with magnetic hold-open technology, for easier boarding and exiting.
- With power-actuated movement and an integrated canopy, the new Grand Luxe Arch redefines on-water comfort and style by delivering instant, push-button shade and a sleek, dynamic aesthetic that enhances both the look and functionality of the pontoon.
For more information on the Godfrey Sanpan, or its full lineup of pontoons, please visit www.godfreypontoonboats.com.
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About Godfrey
Godfrey Marine, a division of Polaris Industries, designs, engineers, manufactures and markets a full offering of pontoons. Godfrey pontoons is renowned for quality and innovation throughout the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean. Godfrey is focused on the manufacturing of boats that offer the best time on the water and are fun for the whole family.
About Polaris
As the global leader in powersports, Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII) pioneers product breakthroughs and enriching experiences and services that have invited people to discover the joy of being outdoors since our founding in 1954. Polaris’ high-quality product line-up includes the RANGER, RZR, Polaris XPEDITION, and GENERAL side-by-side off-road vehicles; Sportsman all-terrain off-road vehicles; military and commercial off-road vehicles; snowmobiles; Indian Motorcycle mid-size and heavyweight motorcycles; Slingshot moto-roadsters; Aixam quadricycles; Goupil electric vehicles; and pontoon and deck boats, including industry-leading Bennington pontoons. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a robust portfolio of parts, garments, and accessories. Headquartered in Minnesota, Polaris serves nearly 100 countries across the globe. www.polaris.com
Godfrey® is a registered trademark of Highwater Marine, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Polaris Industries Inc.
© 2026 Highwater Marine, LLC