No matter where you go in the world, you’ll need to empty your bowels and get rid of the junk that your bodies no longer need.
Just because you’re on a boat, doesn’t mean that you’ll magically no longer need to use the toilet. This is a common problem that us boaters run into whilst on the water, and everyone has their own way with dealing with it.
Most people tend to use the toilet before they set-off and once they’re on water, if they get the urge – they hold it in. Not everyone is able to hold it in and sometimes relieve themselves in the water (Highly criticized). Obviously, this isn’t good, however an effective solution is available.
It is possible to set-up a small inexpensive bathroom on your boat that doesn’t take up space.
Portable toilets can be purchased for extremely cheap, I’ll be recommending you a few which you can buy. You can also purchase a ton of effective bathroom accessories. These are awesome products which allow you to use the toilet in a hygienic manner, on your boat. In this article, I’ll be explaining why your pontoon boat should have a bathroom.
Why You Should Have a Bathroom on Your Boat
Medical Reasons
If you, a family member, or a friend has any medical issues which would require them to be able to use the bathroom at a moments notice, a bathroom is essential.
These medical issues include many medical conditions such as Diarrhea, Hemorrhoids, and Constipation. Medical reasons also include elderly riders which may not be able to ride on a boat if it doesn’t have a bathroom.
It’d be very disappointing if you had to turn your boat around and end your trip early so that someone can use the bathroom. Also, the person who needs the bathroom may not be able to hold it for long enough. This could cause their medical problem to worsen, or it could make for an extremely embarrassing and messy experience.
Younger Riders
We’ve all been young and know how it feels to have a small bladder. When you’re young and you need the toilet, you really need it.
It’s very difficult for young kids to hold it in for long, it’s important that they can relieve themselves as soon as possible otherwise you risk them wetting themselves.
Such an incident can be very embarrassing for them, not to mention messy for everyone else on board. Therefore, it should be avoided. It’s especially important that kids are hydrated which makes them more likely to need the bathroom.
Long trips
Sometimes you may find yourself on trips which last an extended period. These trips often occur on large bodies of water. If you’re planning on a long trip, then you should consider purchasing a portable toilet. This is because you may have to travel for a long time to get back onto land.
There’s nothing worse than being miles out from land and having to use the bathroom. Every second that goes by feels like a minute and every minute that goes by feels like an hour. The only other option you have is to relieve yourself in the water, which is heavily frowned upon.
Portable Pontoon Boat Toilets
Lucky for us, there is a wide range of different portable toilets which can be purchased in-store or online. Of course, there’s a better selection online and large retailers such as Amazon offer lightning speed delivery times for extra convenience.
Though, most of these portable toilets serve the same purpose – they can vary vastly in operation and features. In this section I’ll be creating a list of the top 10 best porta potties for boats. These products will not only apply for pontoon boats, but for boats in general.
Alpcour Portable Toilet
Shipping Weight: 14.33 pounds
Holding Tank: 5.3 Gallons
Flush Method: Piston Pump
Suitable for recreational and camper vehicles – as well as housing projects or temporary locations, Alpcour’s portable toilet will not disappoint. It is compact, yet fully functional and brings in all the features of a classic home toilet.
The toilet has a piston pump flusher that guarantees great cleaning without any external plumbing. It features two tanks – one for large flushes and another one for light stuff. The unit is durable and well put together. It resists corrosion and rust and can support people of all ages.
The cleaning action covers 360 degrees. Emptying the content is fairly simple, too, due to the rotating spout. There are no leaks whatsoever, while the waste level indicator lets you know when you might need to empty contents.
Pros
- Great cleaning procedure
- Easy to empty contents
- Durable and solid
- No leaks of odors or liquids
Cons
- A bit annoying to empty, as there is always some water left behind
Bottom line: Generally speaking, the portable toilet designed by Alpcour is great for those who camp or have their own camper vans. Given its compact design, it is just as handy for a day out in nature or picnics with the family.
Aurora Merchant Portable Travel Toilet
Seat Size: 17x14x17.5 inches
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Shipping Weight: 13.77 pounds
Holding Tank: 5.3 Gallons
You just cannot go wrong with Aurora Merchant’s portable toilet. Measuring 17x14x17.5 inches and weighing less than 14 pounds when empty, this travel toilet can go anywhere – campers, RVs, trucks, or even a small car on a picnic day.
Made of PE materials, the toilet is solid and can take up to 300 pounds of weight. It is suitable for grownups and kids altogether. It has grip handles, so moving it around is fairly simple – you may need help when full, as it is heavier.
The unit has a 2.5-gallon tank, meaning you can flush about 50 times. It is odorless and leakproof, but it is also easy to clean. Empty it responsibly, and cleaning will be a matter of minutes – make sure to sanitize it as well.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy to clean
- About 50 flushes
- No leaks or odors
Cons
- Gets quite heavy when full
Bottom line: Aurora Merchant has designed one of the most appreciated portable toilets on the market, whether you are after durability, convenience, or a compact profile. It can be used as a permanent feature in a camping vehicle, but it is also portable and easy to take on a day out.
Playberg Portable Travel Toilet
Seat Size: 17x16x14 inches
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Shipping Weight: 7 pounds
Playberg has created one of the most cost-efficient portable toilets on the market. Forget about posh materials or heavy toilets – made of plastic, this unit will last for ages and resist corrosion or rust. It measures 17x16x14 inches – quite standard.
Given the plastic construction, the toilet is incredibly light and portable. The cover is removable – its main role is to seal odors and prevent leaks. In terms of convenience, you can obviously use it as a chair, too – assuming the lid is closed.
Other than that, the toilet must be used with eight-gallon waste bags to ensure easy cleanup. There is no mess whatsoever. In terms of bells and whistles, it has a built-in toilet paper holder on the side. There are no flushing features, though.
Pros
- Durable plastic construction
- Can seal odors very efficiently
- Lightweight and highly portable
- Built-in toilet paper holder
Cons
- No flushing
Bottom line: All in all, this portable travel toilet takes value for money to another level. There are no unnecessary bells and whistles, but just what you need for a comfortable outdoor experience. Cleaning and maintenance are just as simple.
SereneLife Outdoor Portable Toilet
Seat Size: 16.5 x 14.6 x 16.9 inches
Product Weight: 11.2 pounds
Holding Tank: 5.3 Gallons
Flush Method: 3 Way Pistol Flush
SereneLife’s travel toilet looks a bit more complicated than others in this price range, but the operating principles are the same. Plus, this toilet takes quality to another level and works well for camping trips, day picnics, RVs, camper vans, and so on.
The unit is compact and weighs just over 11 pounds. It is made of high-density polyethylene and can easily resist rust and corrosion. Compared to other similar toilets, it has a 5.3 gallon tank – you will not have to empty it too often.
You also have an indicator for emptying. The process is straightforward and implies using a splash free rotating spout – no mess, no hassle. Besides, the toilet has a carrying case included in the package – easy to move around.
Pros
- Large tank
- Super simple to empty
- Durable and solid structured
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Difficult to get all the liquids out
Bottom line: Simply put, this toilet gets the job done. It is not the fanciest on the market, but it is not a cheap model either. It is great for all kinds of outdoor applications, and it brings in good value for money – convenience is key.
Yitahome Portable Toilet
Seat Size: 16.3 x 14.4 x 16.5 inches
Product Weight: 14 pounds
Holding Tank: 5.3 Gallons
Flush Method: Pump Flush
A mix of polypropylene and polyethylene makes this portable toilet a durable option. Slightly heavier than other units in this range – around 14 pounds, it has a decent size to support children and adults of all sizes. It can take people up to 440 pounds in weight.
The tank for freshwater flushing can take 3.2 gallons. The one for waste can take 5.8 gallons. When full, the toilet may get a bit heavy, but a bit of help will sort you out. It has a level indicator, so you know precisely when to empty it.
The unit has T type water outlets – easy to clean. The handle pump also allows an effortless operation while flushing. You can empty the toilet within minutes – no splashing at all. Detach it by two side latches and use the rotating pouring spout.
Pros
- Great for all outdoor situations
- Large tanks
- Efficient flushing
- Fully self-contained
Cons
- May feel a bit small for tall and large individuals
Bottom line: This portable toilet is definitely worth some attention and can provide support in a plethora of different circumstances – mostly aimed at outdoor uses, camping, and picnic parties.
PARTYSAVING New Portable Toilet
Seat Size: 14″ x 16″
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Shipping Weight: 12.8 pounds
Holding Tank: 5.3 Gallons
Flush Method: Flush Pump (Pumping the flush lever)
This is my favorite portable toilet on the market. It’s a very durable toilet which is built from high-density polyethylene. This means that it should last you a long time if used appropriately. This is the smallest toilet which’ll be on this list and therefore perfect for kids however not as great for adults. This toilet is designed very well to prevent leaks. It features a screw on cap which provides a secure seal and keeps the contents of the toilet safely inside the waste reservoir.
Camco 41541 Standard Portable Travel Toilet
Seat Size: 16.38H x 13.75W x 16.13D inches
Weight Capacity: 330 pounds
Item Weight: 11.5 pounds
Holding Tank: 5.3 Gallons
Flush Method: Bellow-Type Pump
This is another great portable toilet by an established brand, designed for camping, boating and RV’ing. Due to it’s lightweight, it could also be carried in a vehicle for long road trips. The tank is secured with side latches which keep the waste tank attached to the flush tank. Integer-grated handles are also present for increased portability. The detachable holding tank is sealed with a slide valve which does a great job at locking in odors and protecting against leakages.
Porta Potti Curve Portable Toilet
Seat Size: 18 x 18 x 16 inches
Weight Capacity: N/A
Item Weight: 10 pounds
Holding Tank: 5.5 Gallons
Flush Method: Battery-Powered Electric Flush
This is an amazing portable toilet with many great, modern features. This is a very versatile toilet which can be used for most recreational activities. The Porta Potti is very sanitary and built to prevent leakage of waste and odor. With an integrated toilet paper holder, you can ensure that your toilet paper is always within reach when using the toilet. This toilet features a pour-out spout to empty the contents, this is a very easy and clean way to empty the toilet. A cap is then used to close the valve.
Jumbl Innovative Outdoor Portable Toilet
Seat Size: 16.5 x 14.6 x 16.9 in
Weight Capacity: N/A
Shipping Weight: 13.6 pounds
Holding Tank: 5.3 Gallons
Flush Method: Push Pump
The Jumbl Innovative Portable Toilet is a great product, perfect for outdoor activities. This is a very lightweight, however durable portable toilet which makes relieving yourself on a long boating journey – very easy. This toilet never re-circulates water, clean water is used for every flush. Maintenance of this toilet is made extremely easy as all parts can be easily replaced, and matt finish makes scrubbing very easy.
Palm Springs Outdoor 5 Gal Portable Outdoor
Seat Size: 16.5″ high x 13.5″ wide x 12″ deep
Weight Capacity: N/A
Item Weight: 9.75 pounds
Holding Tank: 5 Gallons
Flush Method: Push Pump
The Palm Springs portable toilet is an outstanding portable toilet with many great features. This isn’t a small toilet however, it’s full-sized like a toilet you would have at home. Therefore, accommodates for adults just as well as it does for kids. This is a strong and sturdy toilet made from high-density polyethylene. This toilet features a double-sealed drain valve which prevents leakages and seals in odors. The matte finish on the toilet conceals any scratches. This is a very well-built toilet.
Thetford 92853 Porta Potti 550P
Seat Size: 16.5″ x 15″ x 16.5″
Weight Capacity: N/A
Item Weight: 11.4 pounds
Holding Tank: 5.5 Gallons
Flush Method: Bellows pump flush
This is another great Porta Potti by Theftford. The Porta Potti is built for durability and portability. It’s compact size and ergonomic carrying handle allows for increased portability, which makes it great for traveling and recreational activities. This toilet also comes with 1-year warranty for added peace of mind.
Pontoon Boat Bathroom Accessories
For your pontoon boats bathroom, you’ll need more than just a portable toilet. You cannot forget about the accessories which you’ll need to keep your bathroom sanitary and clean. I’ll list a few of the most important accessories that you should consider purchasing along with your toilet.
Toilet Paper
Toilet paper is by far the most important bathroom accessory, whether is be at home or on your boat. You simply cannot forget it. Imagine using your portable toilet, miles away from any land and then realizing that you don’t have any toilet paper. Toilet paper is essential. I’d recommend that you purchase biodegradable toilet paper, as they’re less likely to clog your toilet. Lucky for us, Theftford have their own brand of toilet paper, designed for use on a boat.
Chemical Cleaner
A chemical cleaner is recommended. They’re used to eliminate the odours which are created when you use your toilet. Being on a boat with a smelly toilet is not very enjoyable for everyone else on board, therefore do everyone a favour and purchase a chemical cleaner like this one, produced by Camco.
Privacy Room / Shelter
A boat bathroom is not complete without some form of privacy. None wants to have to watch someone else sit on a toilet and empty their bowels. You can purchase privacy partitions or shelters for relatively cheap. I’d recommend this changing room.
My name Is Larry Noel, the voice behind BoatCrunch.
I’m a boating enthusiast that loves nothing more than being out on the water. So much so that I’ve acquired a Degree in Marine Biology (MB) as well as a degree in Ocean Engineering (OE).
I’m very familiar with a wide range of different boats and I’ve owned a variety of different boats myself however I have a particular obsession with Pontoon boats. I’ve lived all across the United States and always kept company in the form of boats and now my loving family.
Comments 1
I need a portable toilet which my toddler could use, what can you recommend?