The best of the pontoon boats are great for most applications, but I have used a Watermaster (oblong tube) for the past 15 years and it has some advantages: packs totally-including fins and oars-in its own carry bag which is packable and airline shipable; weighs only 33 pounds; easy to ship by helicopter and simple to set up.
Downside is that the best pontoon boats can take heavier water. I have had my Watermaster down some class III without a problem. Happy hunting.