Customer Renovation Stories

From Helm to Hull: Michael’s Complete Pontoon Boat Rebuild

From Helm to Hull: Michael’s Complete Pontoon Boat Rebuild

Pontoon Renovation Rundown 

When Michael Kaminski and his wife, Kelly, stumbled upon a used pontoon boat for sale, he recognized a prime opportunity to avoid shelling out for a brand-new vessel.

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Boat

2019 Harris

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Scope

Complete overhaul

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Timeline

6 Months

Products Used

Before & After Renovation

Before

After

Drag

Tools for the Ultimate Pontoon Renovation

Michael and Kelly Kaminiski, Wisconsin, decided to finish what someone else had started: rebuilding an old boat from the toons to the Bimini top, and create something straight from his mind’s eye. Michael got creative with his sourcing and created the base of his boat with used pontoons off of a 2019 Harris that was never sold due to dents and scratches. The pair built the rest up using PontoonStuff products. 

“Our boat is about as close to a PontoonStuff make and model as you can get!” Michael joked.

Boat Overhaul From The Deck Up

Michael and Kelly's rebuild covered every corner of the boat. Over the course of six months, they replaced and upgraded like masters! Michael made significant improvements to his decking and vinyl flooring, added an all-new interior seating and table setup, and upgraded to new fencing. 

The couple also made major updates to the bells and whistles of his boat, including gauges and switches. He also added a new console, lighting, a Bimini, and a steering system enhancement. 

Fun and convenient additions included a washdown pump for easy cleaning and a new stereo. By the end, the boat wasn’t just complete—it was fully customized and ready to shine come the next boating season.

Feeling the Spark of DIY Boat Wiring 

Of all the hands-on work, Michael found the electrical system the most enjoyable. From installing gauges and switches to integrating stereo components and lighting, the wiring was both a technical challenge and a satisfying win.

I wanted to finish something somebody else started—and save a lot of money while doing it.

- Michael Kaminski

A Message to Other Pontoon Boat Rebuilders

Michael’s advice to other renovators is short and solid: “Take your time and make it right. There are plenty of resources out there if you’re unsure of something.”

And he’s right! With resources and a clear plan, a half-done project can become a head-turning pontoon. Check out West Michigan boating expert, Tom’s Toons, for a full YouTube archive of rebuilder tutorials (including DIY boat electrical support), and visit our Restoration Resources for more articles and helpful tips!

PontoonStuff Can Help You Finish What You Started

Michael and Kelly transformed someone else’s forgotten project into a beautiful, functional, and fully finished pontoon. Now, he’s more than ready to hit the water—with a boat that’s all his, from helm to hull.

Shop PontoonStuff for all the products you need to complete your own boat renovation!