Godfrey and Bennington Launch Dock Assist System with Integrated Pontoon Thrusters

Godfrey Pontoon Boats and Bennington have announced the launch of a new docking-assist technology designed to improve low-speed maneuverability and control for pontoon boat owners.

The Polaris-owned boatbuilders are both based out of Elkhart, Indiana.

Unlike other aftermarket solutions that have attempted to work around the unique challenge created by metal pontoon tubes, the Pontoon Dock Assist system integrates thruster technology directly into the pontoon structure. The system uses a joystick interface to control directional movement, allowing captains to move the boat laterally, rotate, and make precise adjustments at low speeds.

Godfrey says the technology is designed to address common docking challenges, particularly in tight marinas, shallow water, and changing wind conditions.

“Dock Assist gives captains unmatched confidence, even in challenging conditions,” said Ben Duke, President of Polaris Marine, in a press release.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPmzxOIbi-4

“By integrating thruster technology directly into the pontoon’s hull, we are giving captains a tool that dramatically improves handling, so they can focus on enjoying their time on the water rather than battling the dock. This technology reflects our commitment to simplifying the boating experience and advancing intuitive, smart solutions that benefit boaters across our entire pontoon portfolio.”

Both companies have been busy on the R&D front. Bennington launched a new flagship and expanded lineup for 2026, while Godfrey recently launched new Monaco and Sanpan models for the coming year.

Pontoon Dock Assist was submitted for an NMMA Innovation Award at the recent 2026 Minneapolis Boat Show and features an advanced hull‑integrated propeller design with bow and stern thrusters that deliver 360‑degrees of control at low speeds. Using an intuitive joystick, two motors mounted in the center pontoon operate side-facing ports for lateral movement and a center port for forward and reverse motion. This allows the boat to rotate, slide sideways, and navigate with precision.

Unlike aftermarket bolt‑on solutions, the Pontoon Dock Assist is built directly into the pontoon’s hull and comes directly to the owner or dealership from the factory.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqB56J8L2is

The Pontoon Dock Assist system is also designed as a scalable technology platform. It will launching initially on select 25", 27", and 29" center and elliptical pontoon configurations, with future adaptability across additional designs. The Pontoon Dock Assist system comes standard with a bow thruster, with an option to add the stern thruster for full 360-degree control.

Currently, the new feature is available on select models in Bennington’s R and Q series. It is available on select models in Godfrey’s XP, Sanpan, AquaPatio and Monaco series.

“With Pontoon Dock Assist, Polaris Marine is raising the bar and leading the pontoon category forward with a solution that delivers a more predictable, repeatable docking experience—helping captains of all experience levels approach the dock with confidence rather than hesitation,” Duke added. #news #products