The history of patio boats in Columbia, Missouri dates back to the early 20th century when the city was first established. With its location on the banks of the Missouri River and surrounded by pristine lakes and waterways, it's no surprise that boating has always been a popular recreational activity in this Midwestern town. In the early days, small rowboats were used for fishing and transportation along the river. However, as time went on, people began to seek out more leisurely ways to enjoy their time on the water. This led to an increase in popularity of houseboats – floating homes equipped with basic amenities such as beds, kitchenettes, and bathrooms. By the 1960s and 1970s, houseboating had become a well-established pastime in Columbia. However, these traditional houseboats lacked one crucial element – an outdoor space for socializing and enjoying the beautiful views. This is where patio boats came into play. Patio boats are essentially floating decks built onto pontoons or barges with enough room for chairs, tables, grills, and other outdoor furniture. They offer a unique blend of comfort and convenience while allowing people to fully immerse themselves in nature's beauty. The concept of patio boats originated from Louisiana where they were known as "party barges." These floating platforms were popular among locals who wanted to relax on calm waters while indulging in food and drinks with friends. As word spread about these fun-filled parties on water bodies throughout America’s heartland cities like Columbia took notice. In fact, one could say that patio boat culture truly began here when local businesses started renting them out for special occasions like weddings or corporate events. People loved being able to cruise around picturesque lakes while sipping cocktails or having a barbecue onboard. With its growing popularity among tourists visiting Missouri’s charming college town not wanting miss out on this experience many companies started offering rentals services from single-day excursions to week-long adventures. As the demand for patio boats increased, so did their designs and features. Today, you can find a variety of styles available in Columbia ranging from simple pontoons with basic amenities to luxurious double-decker models complete with hot tubs and water slides. The local government also recognized the economic potential of this trend and took steps to develop marinas along popular boating routes. This not only boosted tourism but also created job opportunities for locals in the hospitality industry. However, like any other recreational activity that involves water bodies, there have been concerns about environmental impacts. In recent years, efforts have been made by both boat owners and authorities to promote responsible boating practices such as proper waste disposal and avoiding disturbing wildlife habitats. Despite these challenges, patio boats continue to be a beloved part of Columbia's culture. They are not just limited to leisure activities; many people also use them as permanent residences or weekend getaways on nearby lakes. In fact, some residents even organize annual events such as "Patio Boat Parade" where they decorate their boats with lights and decorations during the holiday season – creating a beautiful sight for everyone passing by on land or water. Moreover, patio boats have become an important aspect of community building in Columbia. It’s common to see groups of friends or families coming together on weekends for cookouts or hosting charity events onboard their favorite floating decks. In conclusion, while it may seem like a relatively new addition compared to traditional houseboating culture in Missouri's charming college town it is clear that patio boats hold a special place among its residents and visitors alike today. With its unique blend of relaxation, entertainment and connection with nature it has become an integral part of Columbia’s history – one that is sure to continue shaping its future for generations to come.
Introduction: A patio boat, also known as a pontoon boat, is a type of watercraft designed for leisure and relaxation purposes. It is an ideal vessel for spending quality time with family and friends while cruising on calm waters. The concept of the patio boat originated in the early 1950s when pontoons were used to create floating platforms for fishing or transporting goods. Over time, these simple pontoons evolved into modern-day luxury boats equipped with all the necessary amenities to make them a perfect choice for recreational activities. History: The first recorded use of pontoons can be traced back to ancient times when they were used by various civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome. However, it was not until 1952 that Ambrose Weeres created the first modern-day pontoon boat out of aluminum tubes welded together to form a floatation device. These prototypes were initially intended for commercial use but quickly gained popularity among families looking for an affordable way to enjoy boating. Design and Features: Patio boats come in various shapes and sizes depending on their purpose and usage. They are typically constructed using two or three cylindrical-shaped floats made from aluminum or fiberglass materials connected by crossbeams called “pontoons.” This design provides stability and buoyancy necessary for floating on water. Modern-day patio boats are equipped with comfortable seating areas along with tables, chairs, storage compartments, grills, mini-fridges or coolers making it possible for people to relax comfortably while enjoying food and drinks onboard. Some models even feature built-in toilets ensuring convenience during extended trips. Uses: Patio boats have become increasingly popular due to their versatility in terms of usage options offered by different designs available in today's market. They can serve as party barges providing ample space for hosting events like birthdays parties or weddings on board while taking advantage of scenic views around lakes or rivers. Moreover, these vessels are also suitable alternatives for traditional houseboats. With the addition of living quarters, patio boats can be used for long-term stays and even as a primary residence in some cases. For fishing enthusiasts, pontoon boats provide an ideal platform for angling with friends or family while still offering all the comforts needed to make it an enjoyable experience. Advantages: One of the main advantages of owning a patio boat is its affordability compared to other types of watercraft such as speedboats or yachts. The cost of purchasing and maintaining a pontoon is significantly lower than that required for larger vessels. Another significant advantage is the versatility offered by these boats in terms of customization options available. From adding additional features like slides and diving boards to changing seating arrangements, owners have endless possibilities when it comes to personalizing their vessel according to their needs and preferences. Environmental Impact: Patio boats are environmentally friendly due to their low fuel consumption rates compared to larger motorized vessels. Furthermore, most modern-day pontoons come equipped with four-stroke engines that produce less pollution making them more eco-friendly alternatives for boating activities. Conclusion: In conclusion, patio boats offer a unique way to enjoy leisure time on water without breaking the bank. Their versatile design allows people from different age groups and interests to enjoy various activities while taking advantage of being surrounded by nature's beauty. As technology continues improving, we can expect further developments in materials used during construction leading towards more efficient designs ensuring continued popularity among those looking for affordable yet luxurious ways of enjoying life on water.
Patio boats, also known as pontoon boats or party barges, have a rich history in Columbia, Missouri. These unique vessels have played an important role in the city's recreational and social scene for over half a century. The first patio boat was introduced to the public in 1952 by Ambrose Weeres, a farmer and welder from Minnesota. Weeres had been experimenting with different designs for small watercrafts when he came up with the idea of using cylindrical metal tubes welded together to create a stable platform on top of the water. He initially intended these pontoons to be used as fishing platforms but soon realized their potential for leisure activities. In 1957, Harold “Bud” Brevik purchased one of Weeres’ prototype pontoons and brought it back to Columbia. At that time, Brevik owned a marina on Lake of the Ozarks and saw great potential in these new types of boats. He began selling them at his marina under the name "Party Cruiser," which eventually evolved into "Pontoon Boat" due to its resemblance to bridges made out of pontoons. As more people started purchasing pontoon boats from Brevik’s Marina, they became increasingly popular for family outings and social gatherings on lakes around Columbia. The flat deck design allowed ample space for seating and tables, making them perfect for picnics and parties on the water. In 1968, another major player entered the patio boat market - Bennington Marine Corporation based in Elkhart, Indiana. They began producing larger luxury pontoon boats with comfortable seats and amenities such as grills and wet bars – catering specifically towards boaters who wanted a more luxurious experience while cruising on lakes. Throughout the decades that followed, patio boats continued to gain popularity among residents of Columbia looking for fun ways to spend time outdoors with friends and family. Many local businesses also recognized their appeal as unique event venues and started offering pontoon boat rentals for corporate events, weddings, and other special occasions. In recent years, Columbia has seen a surge in the popularity of patio boats as alternatives to traditional powerboats. With their shallow draft and efficient use of space, they have become go-to options for exploring lakes with large groups or hosting on-water barbecues. Today, there are several marinas and boat rental companies in Columbia that offer an array of patio boat options to cater to different needs and preferences. These vessels have also evolved over time with modern features such as onboard bathrooms, waterslides, sound systems, and even water sports accessories like wakeboard towers being added to enhance the overall boating experience. As a result of their long-standing history in Columbia's recreational scene, patio boats have become an integral part of the city's culture. They continue to bring people together for fun-filled days on the water while showcasing the beauty of Missouri’s natural landscapes.
Columbia, Missouri is a vibrant and diverse city located in the heart of the Midwest. Known as "CoMo" to locals, this bustling college town has a rich history and an exciting present that attracts residents and visitors alike. History The area that is now Columbia was once inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Osage, Shawnee, and Missouri. In 1818, two men from Kentucky purchased land along the Flat Branch Creek with plans to establish a trading post. The settlement grew quickly due to its location along major transportation routes including the Missouri River and Santa Fe Trail. In 1821, Columbia became part of newly formed Boone County and was named after Christopher Columbus. The University of Missouri was founded in 1839 making it one of the oldest public universities west of the Mississippi River. This led to rapid growth for Columbia as it became an educational hub in addition to its already established agricultural roots. Culture Today, Columbia's culture is shaped by its diverse population which includes students from over 100 countries attending Mizzou (as University of Missouri-Columbia is commonly referred). The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year celebrating different cultures such as Roots 'n Blues Festival showcasing blues music or True/False Film Fest featuring documentaries from around the world. Art lovers will appreciate Columbia's thriving art scene with numerous galleries displaying local artists' work. One notable gallery is Artlandish Gallery which specializes in contemporary folk art created by regional artists. Cuisine Foodies will find themselves right at home in CoMo with its wide variety of dining options ranging from casual food trucks to upscale restaurants. Locals are especially proud of their BBQ joints where you can feast on mouth-watering ribs or pulled pork sandwiches smothered in tangy sauce. For those seeking international flavors, there are plenty of options including Indian cuisine at India House or authentic Mexican street tacos at El Rancho restaurant. And let's not forget the iconic Shakespeare's Pizza, a favorite among students and locals alike. Outdoor Recreation Columbia is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do. The city has over 50 parks offering opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and more. Rock Bridge State Park is a popular destination with its limestone caves and scenic trails leading to Devil’s Icebox – a natural spring that flows into an underground cave. The Katy Trail State Park runs through Columbia which makes it an ideal spot for cycling or walking along the Missouri River. For those seeking water activities, the nearby Lake of the Ozarks offers boating, swimming, and fishing opportunities. Education As mentioned earlier, education plays a significant role in Columbia's identity. In addition to Mizzou, there are two other colleges in town – Stephens College (a women's college) and Columbia College (private liberal arts college). This creates a diverse student population which adds to the city's cultural richness. In terms of primary education, Columbia boasts highly ranked public schools such as Lee Elementary School which was awarded National Blue Ribbon School status in 2018. There are also several private school options available including Christian Academy where students receive both religious instruction and academic education. Economy Columbia has a strong economy driven by industries such as healthcare (with notable institutions like University Hospital), higher education (with three colleges in town), agriculture (due to its central location within farming communities), tourism (thanks to its many festivals and attractions), and manufacturing. Major employers include Veterans United Home Loans, Boone Hospital Center, Shelter Insurance Companies headquarters,and IBM Client Innovation Center serving clients across North America from their CoMo office. Conclusion In conclusion,Columbia,Missouri may have started out as just another small trading post but it has grown into so much more over time.The blending of cultures,the rich history,and thriving economy make this city unique.Students flock here for higher learning and never leave,while visitors come to experience the diverse cuisine,outdoor recreation,and vibrant festivals.In many ways,Columbia represents the best of both worlds-a small town feel with big city offerings.It truly is a special place in the heart of Missouri.
The history of patio boats dates back to the early 20th century when leisure boating became a popular pastime among the wealthy in coastal regions. These early versions of patio boats were essentially luxurious floating living spaces, equipped with all the amenities one would find in a home. As the popularity of leisure boating grew and technology advanced, patio boats evolved into more versatile and functional vessels. They became an attractive choice for those seeking a unique outdoor experience on lakes, rivers, and even canals. One cannot talk about patio boat history without mentioning Lake Powell in Arizona. This man-made lake was created by damming up part of Glen Canyon on the Colorado River in 1963. It quickly became a hotspot for houseboat vacations due to its stunning red rock cliffs and crystal clear waters. The first modern-day patio boat was conceived here by businessman Orin Edson who wanted to create a vessel that could accommodate larger groups and provide them with an enjoyable vacation experience on this beautiful lake. Edson’s design featured comfortable seating areas both inside and outside along with amenities like kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and even hot tubs – making it truly feel like a mobile luxury home on water. His company Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC) went on to produce many different sizes and models of these houseboats which eventually came to be known as “patio boats”. From Lake Powell emerged other companies who began producing their own versions of these floating homes including Stardust Cruisers Inc., Sumerset Houseboats LLC., Thoroughbred Houseboats Inc., Horizon Yachts Inc., Custom Crafted Boats Inc., Destination Yachts LLC., Bravada Yachts LLC., just to name a few. Patio boats soon gained popularity not just as vacation rentals but also as permanent residences for people looking for an alternative lifestyle or retirement option. In fact, today there are entire communities built around marinas where residents live year-round aboard their patio boats. The 1970s saw a surge in the popularity of patio boats as they were featured in many films, TV shows and music videos. This further cemented their status as must-have luxury items among the elite. As demand increased, manufacturers began experimenting with new designs and features to cater to different needs and wants of potential buyers. One such innovation was the introduction of catamaran-style patio boats which had two hulls connected by a platform or deck creating more stability on water. These types of patio boats are now commonly used for fishing excursions or large parties. Another significant development was the use of aluminum instead of traditional wood for building these vessels. Aluminum proved to be a more durable material that required less maintenance making it an ideal choice for houseboats designed for long-term living. In recent years, there has been a shift towards eco-friendly patio boat designs with solar-powered options becoming increasingly popular among environmentally conscious boaters. These models come equipped with solar panels that harness energy from the sun to power all onboard systems, reducing reliance on fuel and minimizing environmental impact. Today’s modern patio boats have evolved into sleek, stylish floating homes equipped with state-of-the-art technology and luxurious amenities. They offer everything from air conditioning and high-speed internet to gourmet kitchens and rooftop decks – providing an unparalleled vacation experience on water. In conclusion, the history of patio boats is one filled with innovation, creativity, and evolution driven by demand from recreational boaters seeking unique experiences on water. From its humble beginnings as a floating home concept at Lake Powell to becoming a symbol of luxury living today – this vessel has truly revolutionized leisure boating industry over time.
The first patio boats, also known as party barges or pontoon boats, were built in the 1950s. They were initially designed for commercial purposes, such as ferrying people and goods across bodies of water. However, their popularity quickly grew among recreational boaters who were drawn to their spacious layout and stability on the water. In the 1960s and 1970s, patio boats became a popular option for families looking to spend time together on the water. During this time period, manufacturers began experimenting with different designs and features to cater to the growing demand for these types of boats. One notable innovation was adding an upper deck to some models, which provided even more space for socializing and sunbathing. By the 1980s and 1990s, patio boats had become a staple in many lakeside communities across North America. Their versatile design made them suitable for various activities such as fishing trips, parties with friends, or simply cruising around enjoying nature. In recent years, there has been a resurgence in interest in patio boats as they continue to evolve with new technology and design advancements. Today's models often include features like built-in grills, wet bars, water slides off the upper deck – making them not just functional vessels but entertainment hubs on the water. Furthermore, environmental concerns have led many manufacturers to use eco-friendly materials when constructing these vessels. This includes using sustainable building practices and incorporating energy-efficient engines that reduce carbon emissions into their designs. Overall, patio boats have come a long way since their humble beginnings as commercial ferries. They have evolved into luxurious leisure vehicles that offer comfort and convenience while allowing people to enjoy spending time outdoors on the water with family and friends. Today's patio boat market offers a wide range of options from small family-sized vessels up to large luxury models equipped with all kinds of amenities. These include state-of-the-art sound systems, LED lighting, and even hot tubs on some models. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovations in the patio boat industry. From eco-friendly designs to advanced navigation systems, these vessels will continue to adapt and evolve with the times while still providing an enjoyable experience for all who step onboard.
Columbia, Missouri is a vibrant and diverse city located in the heart of Mid-Missouri. Founded in 1821, Columbia has a rich history that spans over two centuries. From its early beginnings as a small trading post to its present-day status as a bustling college town, Columbia has evolved into an important economic, cultural, and educational center. The history of Columbia can be traced back to the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 when Thomas Jefferson acquired land from France for $15 million. The newly acquired territory was named the Territory of Orleans, which included present-day Missouri. In 1818, settlers began arriving in Boone's Lick Country (present-day Howard County), attracted by the fertile land and abundant wildlife. In 1819, John Hodge Smith established Smithton on the banks of Flat Branch Creek where he built a log cabin and opened a trading post. This settlement would later become known as Columbia when it was officially platted by Smith's son-in-law James M. Gordon on April 12th, 1821. The name "Columbia" was chosen to honor Christopher Columbus and his voyage to America. The first residents of Columbia were primarily farmers who grew tobacco and hemp for exportation along with other crops such as corn and wheat for local consumption. One significant event that shaped Columbia’s early history was the construction of the Boone's Lick Road (present-day Broadway), which connected St. Louis to Franklin via Boonville. Completed in 1834, this road allowed for easier transportation between cities and facilitated trade between communities. With improved transportation came an influx of people looking to settle in this growing town. By 1840, Columbia had become one of Missouri’s largest towns with over one thousand residents. As more people migrated westward during Manifest Destiny in the mid-19th century, slavery became a contentious issue within Missouri politics leading up to the Civil War. While some residents of Columbia and Boone County supported slavery, others were more sympathetic to the abolitionist movement. The Battle of Boonville in June 1861, which took place just 20 miles west of Columbia, was a pivotal moment in Missouri’s history as it marked the first significant land battle between Union and Confederate forces during the Civil War. During this time, many prominent leaders emerged from Columbia including James Sidney Rollins who is known as the "Father of the University". Rollins played a crucial role in bringing higher education to Missouri by advocating for and securing funding for what would become the University of Missouri. In 1839, Columbia was chosen as the location for Missouri's flagship institution – now known as Mizzou. The university has had a profound impact on shaping Columbia into what it is today. It brought with it an influx of students from all over the country and world, creating a diverse community that fostered intellectual growth and cultural exchange. The late 19th century saw further development in agriculture with advancements such as barbed wire fencing leading to increased production. This also led to economic growth through industries like flour milling and pork processing. In addition to agriculture, manufacturing also began to play a significant role in Columbia's economy with factories producing items such as furniture and wagons. Columbia continued to flourish throughout much of the 20th century thanks to its strong agricultural base and thriving educational institutions. However, there were challenges faced by some members of its community due to segregation laws that existed until their repeal in 1954 following Brown v Board Education Supreme Court decision that declared them unconstitutional. Despite these challenges, Columbia remained steadfastly committed towards progressiveness evidenced by becoming one of only two cities south of St Louis at this time where African Americans could seek higher education; Lincoln University being located approximately thirty-five miles away near Jefferson City became recognized nationally because scholars excelled academically while not being admitted elsewhere based upon race. In the 1960s, Columbia underwent significant urban renewal projects that aimed to revitalize its downtown area. This included creating a pedestrian mall on Broadway and constructing new buildings such as City Hall and the Daniel Boone Building – now known as The Tiger Hotel. Columbia’s growth continued into the late 20th century with an increase in population and expansion of its educational institutions. In addition to Mizzou, Stephens College and Columbia College also call this city home, making it a hub for higher education in Mid-Missouri. Today, Columbia is a thriving city with a diverse population of over 120,000 residents. Its economy is driven by industries such as healthcare, education, technology, and tourism. The vibrant downtown area boasts numerous local businesses ranging from boutiques to restaurants offering cuisines from around the world. The history of Columbia continues to be preserved through various landmarks scattered throughout the city including historic homes like the Gordon Manor built-in 1822 by James M. Gordon himself. The Historic Nifong House located near Katy Trail State Park serves as a reminder of early settlement days while Shelter Gardens provides visitors with a glimpse into Missouri's natural beauty. In conclusion, Columbia's history is one of growth and progressiveness shaped by its agricultural roots and educational institutions. From its humble beginnings as Smithton to becoming an important economic center in Mid-Missouri today, this city has come far but remains committed towards building an inclusive community for all who call it home.
Columbia, Missouri is a vibrant and historic city located in the heart of central Missouri. The city was founded in 1818 by Daniel Boone's son, Nathanial Boone, and his brother-in-law, James Rogers. Originally called "Smithton," the town was renamed Columbia in 1821 after Christopher Columbus. One of the early milestones for Columbia came in 1839 when it became home to the first public university west of the Mississippi River - now known as the University of Missouri (Mizzou). This institution has played a significant role in shaping both the culture and economy of Columbia over its nearly two-century history. In addition to being an educational hub, Columbia also became an important transportation center during this time period due to its location along both major river systems and railroad lines. This made it a prime location for trade and commerce, leading to its growth as a bustling commercial center. During the Civil War era, Columbia saw much turmoil as it was caught between Union troops occupying Jefferson City and Confederate soldiers from nearby states. In fact, one infamous event known as "The Battle of Centralia" occurred just outside of town in September 1864 when pro-Confederacy guerrilla fighters attacked a train carrying Union soldiers on their way to reinforce federal forces at Jefferson City. After surviving these tumultuous times, Columbia continued to grow throughout the late 19th century with developments such as new businesses, schools,and cultural institutions taking root within its borders. However,the real transformation came with rapid urbanization during World War II which brought numerous industries into town including shoe manufacturing plants that were essential for supplying troops overseas. The second half of the twentieth century saw even more development including expansion of Mizzou's campusand increased diversity thanks largely to immigration from surrounding rural areas.The local African American community also grew significantly due partly because Jim Crow laws made southern blacks feel unwelcome elsewhere but also because opportunities here arose working on railroads, in factories and other jobs. Today,Columbia continues to be a thriving city with a rich history. It is home to numerous cultural events such as the True/False Film Festival and Roots N Blues N BBQ festival which attract thousands of visitors each year. The downtown area boasts an array of local businesses, restaurants,and boutiques while also preserving historic buildings such as the Missouri Theatre - a former vaudeville theater turned performing arts center. Columbia's educational institutions continue to play a major role in shaping both the city and its residents. Mizzou has grown into one of the largest universities in the state, attracting students from all over the world. It also serves as an economic engine for Columbia by providing job opportunities and fostering innovation through research. In recent years, Columbia has gained recognition for its sustainability efforts including being named one of America's top 10 "green" cities by Popular Science magazine in 2008. The city has implemented various initiatives aimed at reducing waste, promoting renewable energy sources,and protecting natural resources. Overall,Columbia's history is one that reflects resilience,determination, and growth.Its diverse community continues to thrive thanks to its strong economy, dedication to education,and commitment to preserving its past while looking towards the future. Whether you are visiting or living here,you can't help but feel inspired by this dynamic city with deep roots.
Patio boats, also known as pontoon boats, have been a staple in the boating industry for many years. These versatile vessels are designed to be used on calm waters such as lakes and rivers, making them a popular choice for recreational activities like fishing or leisurely cruises. Their unique design allows for ample space and comfort, making them ideal for hosting gatherings with family and friends. The history of patio boats in Columbia, Missouri dates back to the early 20th century when they were first introduced as small flat-bottomed barges used by farmers to transport goods across waterways. As time passed, these barges evolved into larger vessels that could accommodate more passengers and cargo. In the 1950s, pontoons were added to the bottom of these barges to improve their stability and buoyancy. In the 1960s, patio boats began gaining popularity among recreational boaters. The demand for these vessels increased significantly due to their versatility and affordability compared to traditional motorboats. This led manufacturers in Columbia and other parts of Missouri to start producing purpose-built pontoons specifically designed for leisure activities. One of the earliest companies in Columbia manufacturing patio boats was Playcraft Boats Inc., founded in 1974 by brothers Bob Sr., Jack Sr., Joe Sr., Jim Jr., Tom Jr., John Jr., Bill Jarrett along with Larry McConkey (who left shortly after). They started out building small utility trailers before transitioning into building custom-made aluminum docks which eventually led them into designing houseboats using steel hulls between 45-65 feet long that operated from marinas around Lake Ozark at Party Cove; they even built some "Party Barges" up there too! However those ventures proved short-lived so they decided it would be much easier expanding operations if they retooled what specialized tools & equipment acquired during overhauling old ships including tugboats & ferries salvaged mostly from Gulf Coast, especially during 1970s when many were retired due to changing maritime regulations & new safety features several decades old boats lacked. They then decided they could use much of same equipment to build their own line of smaller pontoon boats that also featured aluminum hulls but with fiberglass decking while using some components off barges no longer viable as watercraft since they were decommissioned before being scrapped. The first patio boat model produced by Playcraft Boats was the Fish-N-Fun, which quickly gained popularity among local boaters in Columbia. This model included basic amenities such as a simple steering console and bench seats, making it perfect for fishing trips or family outings on the lake. In the 1980s, other manufacturers in Columbia began producing patio boats as well. One notable company was Leisure Kraft Pontunes Inc., founded by Bill and Steve Hartley in 1985. Their focus was on creating high-quality pontoons with luxurious features like plush seating, outdoor kitchens, and even waterslides. This shift towards more upscale designs marked a turning point for the industry as patio boats became synonymous with luxury leisure activities. As demand for these vessels increased, so did technological advancements in their design and construction. In the late 1990s, companies started using computer-aided design (CAD) software to create more efficient and innovative layouts for their patio boat models. This allowed for better use of space and improved functionality without compromising comfort or style. Today, there are numerous companies in Columbia manufacturing various types of pontoon boats suitable for different purposes such as fishing, cruising or partying on the water. Some notable ones include Bennington Marine LLC., Harris FloteBote Inc., Sun Tracker Boats Inc., Sylvan Marine Corporation among others. Additionally, advancements in materials used have also significantly impacted the evolution of patio boats over time. The early models were made out of wood or steel frames covered with aluminum, while modern pontoon boats are made out of aluminum or fiberglass. This has not only resulted in lighter and more durable vessels but also reduced maintenance costs for boat owners. In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards eco-friendly and sustainable boating practices. Many manufacturers have responded to this by producing electric-powered patio boats that emit no pollutants into the water. This shift towards greener boating options reflects the changing attitudes towards environmental conservation and sustainability. Furthermore, with the rise of digital technologies, patio boat owners can now access advanced features such as GPS navigation systems, Bluetooth-enabled speakers, and even smartphone-controlled lighting systems on their vessels. In conclusion, the history of patio boats in Columbia showcases how these vessels have evolved from simple barges used for transportation to luxurious leisure crafts equipped with modern amenities. As technology continues to advance and consumer demands evolve, it is safe to say that we will continue to see innovation in the design and construction of patio boats in Missouri and around the world.
A patio boat, also known as a pontoon boat or party barge, is a type of watercraft that has a flat deck mounted on top of two or more pontoons. It is designed to be used for leisure activities such as cruising, fishing, and entertaining guests. The origin of the patio boat can be traced back to the 1950s in Minnesota when Ambrose Weeres created the first modern pontoon boat by welding together two columns filled with steel barrels. This design was later improved upon and became popular among recreational boaters due to its stability and spaciousness. One of the main features that make patio boats stand out from other watercraft is their large open deck space. The decks are usually made from aluminum or fiberglass and can vary in size depending on the model. This provides ample room for seating, sunbathing, grilling, and other activities making it an ideal choice for families or groups looking to spend time on the water. Patio boats are powered by outboard motors or stern drives and can reach speeds up to 25 miles per hour. However, they are not built for speed but rather comfort and relaxation. They have shallow drafts which allow them to navigate through different bodies of water including lakes, rivers, bays, and even coastal areas. One advantage of owning a patio boat is its versatility in terms of customization options. Owners can choose from various layouts such as adding additional furniture like couches or tables according to their needs. Some models even come equipped with slides that extend off the side enabling swimmers to slide directly into the water. Moreover, modern patio boats also feature amenities typically found in homes such as kitchenettes with sinks and refrigerators allowing owners to entertain guests while onboard without having to constantly go back ashore for supplies. Many models also have built-in grills making it convenient for cooking meals while enjoying the scenic views around. Another appealing aspect of owning a patio boat is its relatively low maintenance. Unlike traditional boats, patio boats have fewer moving parts and require less upkeep. The deck material used makes it resistant to wear and tear and easy to clean. Patio boats are not just for leisure activities; they also serve practical purposes such as fishing. With their wide decks, anglers can easily move around without worrying about getting tangled in fishing lines. Some models even come with built-in fish finders and live wells making it a perfect choice for avid fishermen. Despite all the positives, there are some drawbacks to owning a patio boat. One major concern is its lack of protection from the elements. Although some models offer options for canopy covers or enclosures, they may not be sufficient during extreme weather conditions such as strong winds or heavy rain. Another disadvantage of patio boats is their limited mobility compared to other types of watercraft like speedboats or yachts. Their size and weight make them difficult to maneuver in tight spaces which can limit access to certain areas on the waterway. In recent years, manufacturers have been incorporating eco-friendly features into their designs such as solar panels that power onboard electrical systems reducing the need for fuel consumption while cruising on the water. In conclusion, a patio boat offers an excellent option for individuals looking for a comfortable and spacious vessel to enjoy recreational activities on various bodies of water. Its versatility in customization options, ease of maintenance, and practical usage make it an attractive choice among boaters worldwide.