Waveglider vs. Express Tube: Choosing the Right Triple-Tube Configuration | Unlock Your Avalon’s True Performance Potential
The first time you open up the throttle on a triple-tube pontoon, you’ll wonder why anyone ever settles for two.
Maybe you’ve felt it—that moment when your current boat just can’t deliver. You’re loaded with family and gear, you punch it, and the bow rises so high you can’t see over it. The kids want to tube, but the boat won’t plane. Or maybe you’re just tired of getting bounced around every time a wake rolls through. The answer to all of these frustrations is hiding beneath the deck: the number and type of pontoons you choose.
Avalon offers two distinct approaches to triple-tube performance—Waveglider and Express Tube—and understanding the difference is the key to matching your boat to your boating lifestyle. This guide breaks down exactly what each configuration delivers, which engines they pair with, and how to choose the setup that transforms your time on the water.
TL;DR
Triple-tube configurations transform pontoon boats from casual cruisers into high-performance machines . Avalon’s Waveglider Performance Package represents the pinnacle of engineering, featuring three 27-inch pontoons with lifting strakes and an aluminum underdeck Wave Shield that improves airflow and efficiency . Express Tube configurations offer a more balanced approach—still three tubes for stability and capacity, but optimized for mid-range power and family cruising rather than all-out speed . The choice comes down to your horsepower goals and how you use your boat. Waveglider setups handle twin-engine configurations and 500+ horsepower packages that push 60+ mph . Express Tube models deliver excellent stability and handling with single-engine setups up to 400 horsepower, perfect for families who want confidence in rough water without needing racing speeds.
Key Takeaways
- Three tubes change everything—adding a center tube transforms stability, cornering, and rough-water capability
- Waveglider is Avalon’s performance flagship—27-inch tubes, lifting strakes, and underdeck shielding for maximum speed
- Express Tube delivers balanced performance—excellent stability with efficient mid-range power
- Tube diameter matters—27-inch tubes provide more buoyancy and capacity than smaller diameters
- Match tubes to horsepower—Waveglider for 400+ hp and twin engines, Express Tube for single-engine setups up to 400 hp
- Lifting strakes are speed secrets—these fins along the tubes reduce drag and improve planing
- Consider your water—rough lakes and coastal areas demand the stability of triple tubes regardless of speed goals
The Science: Why Three Tubes Transform Your Ride
Let’s start with what’s happening beneath the waterline. Traditional two-tube pontoons float on a pair of aluminum logs. They’re stable at slow speeds and perfect for calm lakes. But physics has limits. When you add power, a two-tube boat leans to the outside in turns—the opposite of how a performance boat should handle . That lean is uncomfortable and limits how much horsepower you can safely hang on the transom.
Add a third tube centered between the two outer ones, and everything changes. The center tube is typically mounted slightly lower or is a larger diameter than the outer tubes . At speed, the boat actually rides on that center tube, with the outer tubes providing stability like outriggers. In turns, the boat stays flat or even leans slightly into the turn—just like a performance runabout .
“When a center tube is added to the design, it’s usually mounted just a little lower than the outboard tubes or is a slightly larger diameter. At speed the boat glides on the center tube with the outboard tubes providing stability, and when the boat enters a turn it may stay flat or lean into the turn.”
This design does more than improve handling. It increases buoyancy, which means higher passenger and gear capacities . It spreads weight more evenly, reducing that annoying bow rise when accelerating . And it makes rough water manageable—the third tube acts like a third leg on a stool, eliminating the rocking motion that makes some passengers nervous .
The Evolution of Pontoon Performance
- 1960s-70s: Simple two-tube designs dominated. Speed wasn’t the goal—stable floating platforms for fishing and slow cruising were .
- 1980s: Manufacturers began experimenting with center tubes. One company trademarked “TriToon” as performance aspirations grew .
- 1990s: Triple-tube designs became established options. Boaters discovered they could actually pull skiers and tube riders.
- 2000s: Performance packages emerged with lifting strakes, larger tube diameters, and higher horsepower ratings .
- 2010s: Avalon introduced Waveglider technology, integrating underdeck shielding and advanced hydrodynamics for serious speed.
- Modern era: Today’s Avalon triple-tube boats push 60-80+ mph with twin-engine configurations, completely redefining what a pontoon can do .
Waveglider Performance Package: Built for Speed
Best for: Boaters who want maximum speed, twin-engine capability, and the thrill of high-performance cruising
The Waveglider name appears on Avalon’s most exhilarating models. When you see a pontoon with twin Mercury Racing outboards screaming across the lake, you’re looking at Waveglider technology underneath .
What makes Waveglider different:
The package starts with three 27-inch diameter pontoons . That’s the foundation—larger tubes mean more buoyancy and the ability to handle serious horsepower. But size alone isn’t enough. Waveglider adds lifting strakes—fin-like protrusions running along the tubes that literally lift the boat as speed increases, reducing drag and getting you on plane faster .
Then there’s the aluminum underdeck Wave Shield. This isn’t just marketing—it’s an engineered panel mounted beneath the deck that improves airflow and efficiency while providing additional lift . Think of it as the difference between driving a truck with a lifted suspension versus a sports car with ground effects. Both move, but one is optimized for speed.
Real-world Waveglider performance:
- Avalon Excalibur LTD with Mercury 500 Racing outboard: 0-30 mph in 3 seconds, top speed approaching 60 mph
- Avalon Catalina 2585 with twin Honda 350s: 0-30 in 4.3 seconds, 63 mph top end, rated for up to 800 hp
- Avalon 2785 Catalina Platinum with Mercury Racing 450R: 0-30 in 5.6 seconds, nearly 56 mph
- Avalon Excalibur ELW with twin Mercury 500Rs: top speeds in the 80s
These numbers aren’t just impressive—they’re transformative. A boat that hits 60 mph in seconds changes what’s possible. You’re not just cruising anymore. You’re covering distance, pulling skiers with authority, and having fun in ways pontoon owners never imagined twenty years ago.
“With twin 500R outboards from Mercury Racing on the back, this pontoon was extremely fast as we reached a top speed in the 80s! With that kind of performance it easily fit in with the Miami crowd.”
Express Tube Configuration: Balanced Performance
Best for: Families who want stability, rough-water confidence, and solid performance without needing racing speeds
Not everyone needs 60+ mph. But that doesn’t mean you should settle for two-tube limitations. Express Tube configurations deliver the stability and handling benefits of triple tubes while paired with more modest—but still capable—single-engine power.
What Express Tube delivers:
You still get three tubes. That means you get the flat cornering, the reduced bow rise, the rough-water confidence, and the increased passenger capacity that triple tubes provide . What you don’t get is the extreme horsepower rating and the specialized underdeck engineering of the Waveglider package.
This is the sweet spot for families who:
- Boat on bigger lakes where chop is a fact of life
- Want to pull tubers and beginners on skis
- Carry large groups and need the capacity and stability
- Appreciate a smooth ride more than a fast one
Typical Express Tube specs:
While specific Express Tube configurations vary by model and year, they’re generally designed for single-engine installations in the 250-400 horsepower range. You’ll still get the 27-inch tubes on many models, but without the full Waveglider performance engineering .
“If you’d like to see a top speed over 40 MPH, or you’d like to have enough power to tow skiers and boarders, a triple-pontoon design is probably a better choice. If you boat on bigger water or want to be able to head out when the wind kicks up choppy conditions, the triple-tube model will also be an advantage.”
Comparison: Waveglider vs. Express Tube
| Feature | Waveglider Performance Package | Express Tube Configuration |
|---|---|---|
| Tube Count | 3 | 3 |
| Tube Diameter | 27 inches | Typically 25-27 inches |
| Lifting Strakes | Yes, performance-optimized | Varies by model |
| Underdeck Shield | Yes, Wave Shield for airflow | Standard underdeck |
| Engine Configuration | Single or twin, up to 800 hp | Single engine, 250-400 hp typical |
| Top Speed Potential | 60-80+ mph | 40-50 mph typical |
| Best Use | High-performance cruising, watersports, twin-engine thrill | Family cruising, rough water, large groups |
| Price Range | Premium (flagship models) | Mid-range to premium |
Tube Technology: What Else Matters
Beyond the Waveglider vs. Express Tube decision, understanding tube construction helps you appreciate what you’re buying.
Tube diameter directly impacts capacity. That 24-foot example from Discover Boating shows the progression :
| Configuration | Passenger/Weight Capacity | Max Power |
|---|---|---|
| 2×25-inch tubes | 13/2,315 lbs | 150 HP |
| 2×27-inch tubes | 15/2,564 lbs | 150 HP |
| 3×25-inch tubes | 15/2,697 lbs | 225 HP |
| 3×26-inch tubes | 16/2,953 lbs | 225 HP |
Larger tubes and the third tube dramatically increase what your boat can handle. That’s not just about speed—it’s about safety and comfort when you have a full crew.
Lifting strakes deserve special attention. These aren’t just cosmetic ridges. Properly designed strakes reduce the time it takes to get on plane, improve fuel efficiency at cruising speeds, and enhance handling in turns . On Waveglider models, the strake design is optimized for the performance the package delivers.
Segmented chambers inside the tubes provide safety redundancy. If one section is damaged, the others maintain flotation . This is standard on quality triple-tube construction regardless of performance package.
Real-World Impact: Matching Configuration to Lifestyle
The watersports family: You’ve got teenagers who want to tube, wakeboard, and ski. You need a boat that gets on plane quickly, pulls hard, and handles the weight of multiple riders and gear. Waveglider with a single 400hp engine or even twin 350s transforms what’s possible. Your kids will never believe they’re being pulled by a pontoon .
The large family gatherings: Grandma wants a smooth ride. The kids want to run around. You’ve got coolers, chairs, and maybe a grill. Express Tube gives you the stability and capacity to handle a crowd safely, while the triple-tube design keeps everyone comfortable even when the afternoon wind kicks up .
The performance enthusiast: You love the look and layout of a luxury pontoon, but you also love speed. Waveglider with twin Mercury Racing outboards delivers both. You’re hitting 60+ mph, cornering flat, and turning heads at every dock .
The rough-water boater: You’re on the Great Lakes, a wide river with constant barge traffic, or a coastal bay. Waves and wakes are just part of life. Triple tubes—either Waveglider or Express Tube—keep you stable and comfortable when two-tube boats are getting tossed around .
“The tritoon’s enhanced stability truly shines when you’ve got a busy boat. Whether you’re towing tubers, reeling in the big one with a lively fishing party, or simply playing host to a larger crowd, that extra steadiness is a game-changer.”
Making the Choice: Questions to Ask Yourself
How fast do you actually want to go?
If 50 mph feels plenty fast, Express Tube delivers. If you want to see 60+ on the display, Waveglider is your path.
What engine are you planning?
Single engine under 400 hp? Express Tube handles that beautifully. Dreaming of twin 350s or a 500hp monster? You need Waveglider engineering.
Where do you boat?
Protected lakes with minimal chop? Two tubes might actually be enough . Big water with regular waves? Triple tubes—either configuration—are worth every penny for comfort alone.
Who comes with you?
If you regularly carry 10+ passengers, the capacity increase from triple tubes matters regardless of speed goals .
What’s your budget?
Waveglider represents Avalon’s premium performance tier. Express Tube delivers the stability benefits of three tubes at a more accessible price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the actual difference between Waveglider and Express Tube?
Waveglider is Avalon’s dedicated performance package featuring three 27-inch pontoons with specialized lifting strakes and an aluminum underdeck Wave Shield for maximum speed and efficiency . Express Tube configurations provide three tubes for stability and capacity but are designed for mid-range single-engine power rather than high-performance applications.
Can I get Waveglider with a single engine?
Yes, Waveglider packages are available with single high-horsepower engines like the Mercury Racing 450R . The package delivers performance benefits even with one engine.
Do I need three tubes if I don’t care about speed?
If you boat on rough water, carry large groups, or simply want the most stable platform possible, yes. The stability and capacity benefits of triple tubes exist at all speeds .
How much faster is Waveglider than Express Tube?
Waveglider models with appropriate power have been tested at 56-63 mph with single high-horsepower engines and 80+ with twin setups . Express Tube configurations with standard power typically cruise in the 40-50 mph range.
What size tubes come on Waveglider packages?
Waveglider uses 27-inch diameter pontoons . This larger diameter provides the buoyancy needed for high horsepower applications.
Can I upgrade from Express Tube to Waveglider later?
No, the tube configuration is integral to the boat’s construction. Choose based on your intended use and power goals before ordering.
What’s the warranty on Avalon triple-tube configurations?
Avalon offers a lifetime hull warranty and a 10-year bow-to-stern warranty on many models, providing peace of mind regardless of which configuration you choose .
Are triple-tube boats harder to trailer?
They require appropriate trailer support for the additional tube, but quality pontoon trailers are designed to handle triple-tube configurations. The wider footprint is accommodated by properly positioned bunks.
The Bottom Line
Your Avalon’s performance starts below the waterline. The choice between Waveglider and Express Tube isn’t about which is better—it’s about which is better for you.
Waveglider delivers breathtaking speed, twin-engine capability, and the ultimate in pontoon performance engineering . It’s for the boater who wants to feel the throttle in their spine and turn heads at every pass.
Express Tube gives you the stability, capacity, and rough-water confidence of three tubes without requiring racing-level power. It’s for the family who wants everyone comfortable, the cruiser who faces big water, and the entertainer who packs the boat to capacity .
Both configurations represent Avalon’s commitment to quality—reinforced aluminum construction, thoughtful engineering, and the luxury appointments that make spending time on the water a genuine pleasure. The right choice depends on your dreams, your waters, and how fast you want to get there.
Your reinforced aluminum pontoons are ready. The only question is which adventure you’re chasing.
References
- Boating Mag – 2024 Avalon Excalibur LTD
- Discover Boating – Tritoon vs. Pontoon
- Boating Mag – 2025 Avalon Catalina 2585 Twin Cruise Rear Bench
- Harris Pontoon Boats – Pontoon vs. Tritoon: What’s the Difference?
- Boating Mag – 2022 Avalon 2785 Catalina Platinum
- Harris Pontoon Boats – The Difference Between Pontoon Boats and Tritoon Boats
- Rightboat – 2025 Avalon 2585 Catalina Cruise Funship
- Pontoon and Deck Boat Magazine – As Seen In Miami: A Look Back on Boating’s Largest Show
- Legend Boats – Choosing Between Two or Three Tubes for Your Pontoon Boat (2024 Buying Guide)
What’s your boating style—speed demon or family cruiser? Have you experienced the difference three tubes make? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below.
