Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20

2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20: A Practical Guide to Getting the Most Out of Your Pontoon Boat If you’re looking into the 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20, chances are you’re trying to answer a few real-world questions before spending money, time, or energy on a boat. Is it comfortable for family cruising? Is it easy to maintain? Will it handle the kind of lake days, sunset rides, and casual outings you actually want to enjoy? That’s the right way to think about it. A pontoon boat can look great on paper, but the real problem is figuring out whether it fits your lifestyle once the excitement fades and the practical side kicks in. Storage, seating layout, fuel use, engine pairing, and overall upkeep all matter more than a glossy brochure. The good news is that the 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20 has a lot going for it if your goal is relaxed, dependable boating. It’s the kind of boat that works best when you understand what it’s built for and how to set it up properly. In this article, we’ll break down what makes this model appealing, what buyers should watch for, and how to get the best experience out of it without overcomplicating things. - What Makes the 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20 Stand Out The 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20 is a 20-foot pontoon designed for casual cruising, family outings, and easy lake time. It sits in a sweet spot for people who want enough space for friends and gear without moving into a larger, harder-to-handle boat. One of the biggest advantages of this model is its balance. It’s not trying to be a high-performance fishing rig or a luxury yacht. Instead, it focuses on comfort, simplicity, and everyday usability. That makes it especially appealing for: - First-time pontoon buyers - Families who want a relaxed day boat - Couples who enjoy sunset cruising - Owners looking for a manageable boat size - People who want low-stress maintenance A 20-foot pontoon is also easier to store, trailer, and dock than larger models. For many owners, that convenience matters just as much as seating or styling. - The Real Problem Buyers Face with a Boat Like This The main issue most people run into with a boat like the 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20 is not whether it’s “good” in general. It’s whether it fits their actual boating habits. A lot of buyers focus on appearance, deck space, or brand reputation, but the real challenge is matching the boat to the way they’ll use it. For example: - A boat that is too small feels cramped fast - A boat that is too large becomes harder to trailer and store - A boat with the wrong engine setup may feel underpowered - A boat with poor maintenance history can turn into an expensive headache So the problem isn’t just choosing the boat. It’s choosing it wisely and setting expectations correctly. The solution is to evaluate the boat as a system: layout, condition, engine, usage goals, and ownership costs. When you do that, the 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20 becomes much easier to judge. - Who the 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20 Is Best For This model tends to work best for people who want straightforward recreation rather than specialized boating. It’s a strong fit if you: - Spend most of your time on calm lakes or slow-moving water - Prefer cruising and socializing over speed - Want a boat that is easy to board and move around on - Need enough room for a small group without going oversized - Value comfort and simplicity over flashy extras It may be less ideal if you want: - High-speed performance - Heavy-duty towing for water sports - Serious offshore capability - A fishing-first layout with specialized storage and equipment That doesn’t mean the boat can’t be used for a variety of activities. It just means its strengths are most obvious when used for laid-back boating. - Key Features That Matter Most When people look at the 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20, they often get distracted by cosmetic details. Those matter, but the practical features are what really affect ownership. - Deck Layout and Seating Pontoon boats are all about usable space, and this model is designed to make that space comfortable. The seating layout typically prioritizes conversation and movement, which is ideal for family cruising. Look for: - Enough seating for your normal group size - Easy walk-through access - Durable upholstery condition - Storage under seats or in compartments A good layout makes the boat feel larger than it is. - Pontoon Tube Design The pontoons themselves play a huge role in ride quality and stability. A 20-foot pontoon like this is usually built for balanced cruising rather than aggressive handling. The tube setup affects: - Stability at rest - Smoothness in light chop - Fuel efficiency - Overall load capacity If you’re shopping used, inspect the pontoons carefully for dents, corrosion, weld issues, or signs of repairs. - Helm and Control Setup The helm should be easy to read and simple to operate. That matters more than people think, especially for newer boaters. A good helm setup helps with: - Safe navigation - Comfortable driving position - Easier control in tight spaces - Less fatigue during longer outings If the steering feels stiff or the controls are outdated, factor that into your decision. - Engine Pairing and Performance Expectations One of the biggest questions around any pontoon boat is power. The 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20 can perform well, but the engine matters just as much as the hull. This is where many buyers make mistakes. They assume all 20-foot pontoons will feel the same, but engine size, prop choice, load, and maintenance history all change the experience. - What to Expect from Typical Performance For relaxed cruising, this boat size is usually plenty. It should handle easy acceleration, steady cruising, and normal passenger loads without much drama if properly powered. You should expect: - Smooth low-speed handling - Comfortable cruising on lakes - Moderate top-end performance depending on engine - Better efficiency than larger boats If you plan to pull tubes or carry a full group often, make sure the engine setup is strong enough for that use. - Why Engine Condition Matters More Than Engine Size A well-maintained smaller engine can outperform a neglected larger one. That’s why condition is so important. Check for: - Service records - Oil changes - Impeller replacement - Fuel system cleanliness - Lower unit condition, if applicable A boat with a healthy engine is far more valuable than one with extra horsepower but poor maintenance. - Common Buyer Mistakes to Avoid If you’re considering the 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20, a little caution goes a long way. Many buyers run into the same avoidable mistakes. - Ignoring the Boat’s Actual Use Case Some people buy a pontoon expecting it to do everything. Then they realize it’s not ideal for their favorite activities. Before buying, ask: - Will I mostly cruise? - Do I need towing ability? - How many people will I usually bring? - Where will I store the boat? The clearer your use case, the better your decision. - Not Checking the Trailer and Storage Setup A boat is only as convenient as the system around it. If you plan to trailer the 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20, the trailer condition matters a lot. Inspect: - Tires - Bearings - Lights - Winch - Frame rust - Bunks or rollers Storage matters too. A boat that fits your garage, yard, or marina slip is much easier to own long-term. - Overlooking Upholstery and Flooring These are not just cosmetic issues. Damaged seating or flooring can point to water intrusion, sun damage, or general neglect. Watch for: - Cracking vinyl - Soft spots in the deck - Mold or mildew smell - Loose seams - Faded materials Small issues can become expensive if ignored. - Buying Without a Water Test A dockside look is not enough. If possible, take the boat on the water. During a test ride, check: - Acceleration - Steering response - Noise or vibration - Engine temperature - Handling under load This is one of the best ways to catch hidden problems. - How to Evaluate a Used 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20 If you’re shopping used, the goal is to separate a well-kept boat from one that just looks good in pictures. - Inspect the Hull and Pontoons Start with the pontoons and undercarriage. These are the foundation of the boat. Look for: - Dents or punctures - Corrosion - Patchwork repairs - Loose fittings - Uneven wear Even minor damage can affect performance or long-term reliability. - Review Maintenance History A seller who has records is usually a better sign than one who says “it runs great.” Documentation helps you know what you’re buying. Good records may include: - Oil and filter changes - Annual servicing - Battery replacement - Upholstery repairs - Winterization The more complete the history, the easier it is to trust the boat’s condition. - Check Electrical and Accessories Pontoon boats often come with lights, radios, gauges, pumps, and other add-ons. These can be useful, but they also create more points of failure. Test everything: - Navigation lights - Stereo - Horn - Bilge pump - Gauges - Battery charging system Electrical issues can be annoying and time-consuming to fix. - Practical Tips to Get the Best Experience Owning the 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20 is much easier when you set it up for success from day one. - Keep the Load Reasonable Every boat has a comfort zone. Overloading a 20-foot pontoon with too many people, coolers, and gear can affect handling and efficiency. To keep things smooth: - Stay within the recommended capacity - Distribute weight evenly - Avoid stacking heavy gear in one area - Monitor performance when fully loaded A balanced boat feels safer and more enjoyable. - Choose the Right Prop and Engine Setup If your boat feels sluggish or inefficient, the prop may be part of the issue. Matching the prop to your normal use can make a noticeable difference. For example: - Better low-end thrust helps with towing - Proper pitch improves cruising efficiency - The wrong prop can strain the engine This is a simple upgrade path that can improve the boat’s real-world behavior. - Protect the Interior The interior is where most of your time will be spent, so keep it in good shape. Helpful habits include: - Rinsing after use - Using seat covers - Cleaning spills quickly - Avoiding harsh chemicals - Storing the boat covered when possible Pontoon upholstery lasts longer when protected from sun and moisture. - Stay on Top of Seasonal Maintenance Routine maintenance is what keeps a comfortable boat from becoming a frustrating one. At minimum, plan for: - Engine service - Battery checks - Fuel system inspection - Cleaning and detailing - Winterization or off-season prep A little attention each season can prevent bigger problems later. - Why This Boat Size Works So Well for Casual Boating There’s a reason 20-foot pontoons remain so popular. They hit a practical middle ground. A boat like the 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20 is large enough to feel social and functional, but small enough to remain manageable. That makes it especially appealing for people who want boating to feel easy instead of complicated. This size works well because it offers: - Easier docking - Lower storage demands - Better trailerability - Simpler maintenance - Comfortable cruising for small to medium groups For many owners, that’s the real win. It’s not about having the biggest boat on the water. It’s about having the one you’ll actually use often. - When the 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20 Is a Smart Buy This boat makes a lot of sense if your priorities are comfort, convenience, and relaxed time on the water. It’s a smart buy when: - You want a dependable family cruiser - You value simple ownership - You mostly boat on calm waters - You want a manageable size - You’re looking for a used pontoon with practical appeal It may not be the right choice if you need high-performance features or specialized activity support, but for everyday leisure boating, it checks a lot of boxes. - Simple Buying Checklist Before making a decision, use this quick checklist: - Confirm the boat matches your main use - Inspect pontoons, flooring, and upholstery - Review engine maintenance records - Test all electronics and accessories - Take a water test if possible - Check trailer condition and storage fit - Compare total ownership costs, not just purchase price This approach helps you avoid surprises and feel more confident about the purchase. - Conclusion The 2017 Avalon LSZ Cruise II 20 is a solid option for boaters who want a comfortable, manageable pontoon for relaxed days on the water. Its strengths are in easy cruising, practical space, and straightforward ownership, which makes it especially appealing for families and casual boaters. The key is to focus on fit, not just features. If the layout, engine condition, and maintenance history line up with your needs, this boat can be a very enjoyable and low-stress choice. Take your time, inspect carefully, and think about how you’ll really use it. If you do that, you’ll be in a much better position to choose a pontoon that delivers the kind of boating experience you actually want.