2020 Pontoon Buyers Guide

HOT OFF THE PRESSES!
HOT NEW ENGINES HOT NEW TRENDS PRICES

2020 SPECI A L E DI T ION
PONTOON
BUYERS GUIDE N E W B OATS
24
GREAT
PONTOON
BOATS
+
SPEEDS,
FUEL ECONOMY
AND MORE
About Brunswick About Princecraft Boats Inc.
Headquartered in Mettawa, Ill., Brunswick Corporation’s leading consumer brands include Mercury Marine outboard engines; Mercury Since 1954, Princecraft Boats Inc., headquartered in Princeville, Quebec, Canada, creates unparalleled experiences on the water for fishing
MerCruiser sterndrive and inboard packages; Mercury global parts and accessories including propellers and SmartCraft electronics; and boating enthusiasts with "professionally rigged and ready" packages of aluminum fishing boats, pontoon boats and deck boats. Its
Power Products Integrated Solutions; MotorGuide trolling motors; Attwood, Garelick, and Whale marine parts; Land ’N’ Sea, BLA, Payne’s commitment is borne out of a deeply rooted heritage of unmatched craftsmanship, incomparable performance and the promise of years
Marine, Kellogg Marine, and Lankhorst Taselaar marine parts distribution; Mercury and Quicksilver parts and oils; Bayliner, Boston Whaler, of trouble-free boating. More fishermen, families and dealers than ever join the Princecraft family, and create some of the best moments
Crestliner, Cypress Cay, Harris, Heyday, Lowe, Lund, Princecraft, Quicksilver, Rayglass, Sea Ray, Thunder Jet and Uttern boats; Boating of their lives.
Services Network, Freedom Boat Club, NAUTIC-ON, OnBoard Boating Club and Rentals.
For more information, visit https://www.brunswick.com. Princecraft Boats Inc. C 2019 | A Brunswick Company
C 2020 PONTOON BUYERS GUIDE
DEPARTMENTS FEATURES
CERTIFIED
TESTS 5 Editorial
Who would have predicted the
26 BENNINGTON SX 22 Swingback
explosive growth and popularity of
28 PRINCECRAFT Vectra 21 RL
the pontoon boat?
29 RANGER RP 200F
30 SUNCHASER Geneva 22 LR PSB 7 Making Waves
32 SYLVAN L-3 DLZ We speak with one of our cover
34 STARCRAFT CX 25 DL Bar models about surviving cancer.
+ On Board with...
35 BARLETTA C24UC
+ Captain’s Text
36 BENNINGTON 23 RX
Sport Swingback
38 PREMIER 250 Grand Majestic RL 12 The Boat Doctor 60 HOW TO BUILD A
Fishing from pontoons, tow-tube BETTER BOATER
39 ALOHA Paradise 260 New to the sport? Follow these steps to be-
Arch Sport Tower safety and more.
come an educated, wise old salt in no time.
P.12 Quick Study BY SHAWN BEAN
40 MANITOU 25 Legacy SL
P.18 What To Look For
42 BARLETTA E24QC
P.20 Boat Doc Special
43 CREST Caribbean
Platinum 250 SLS
44 TAHOE PONTOONS 2585
72 Electronics
Grand Tahoe QL How to stream video to your MFD
from your mobile phone.
46 BENNINGTON 24 R
Bowrider Swingback
47 BENNINGTON 25 QX Fastback 74 Off My Dock
48 PLAYCRAFT PowerToon Why it’s always good to bring your
X-Treme 2700 dog on board.
50 BARLETTA L25UC
51 HARRIS Crowne 270 SL TE 66 ARE YOU IN
52 HARRIS Solstice 250 SLEC GOOD HANDS?
Twelve boat-insurance details you should
54 AVALON 2585 Catalina know but never thought to ask about before.
Platinum EL-W
BY KEVIN FALVEY
55 PLAYCRAFT PowerToon
X-Treme 3000
S S E E V IDEOS !
Watch our editorial experts
walk through the boats to
highlight some of their most
important and outstanding
BUYERS features, as well as get
SPOTLIGHT
a quick rundown of each
boat’s performance data, at
ON THE COVER
boatingmag.com.
56 QWEST LS 818 XRE Cruise Tahoe Pontoons’ 2585 Grand Tahoe QL
58 G3 SunCatcher Elite 326 SL Photo by Bill Doster
2020 PONTOON BUYERS GUIDE 3 B O AT I N G M A G . C O M

editor-in-chief Kevin Falvey
All New Exclusive

deputy editor Pete McDonald
electronics and west coast editor Jim Hendricks
FULL THROTTLE INSURANCE

managing editor Sue Whitney
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senior copy editor
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Nicole Paskowsky
editor-at-large, fishing and marine groups Randy Vance
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John Neporadny, Charles Plueddeman, John Tiger Jr.
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group production director
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associate production director Kelly Weekley
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EDITORIAL By Kevin Falvey
THE AGE OF
THE PONTOON
R e a l p o n to o n b o a te r s d o i t a l l .
W
ho would have predicted the explosive growth and popularity of the pontoon boat? Long
a family-favorite boat type that served as an economical means of getting the crowd
afloat, pontoons now also represent high-powered fun and conspicuous consumption.
Notice that I wrote the word “also.”
I used that adverb intentionally. While simple, low-powered and inexpensive pontoons are still
available, even a “big-dollar” multiengine pontoon remains a great value for family boaters. One big
reason is capacity. I can’t think of another boat type that can safely carry so many people per foot of length.
Compared to an equivalently powered runabout of comparable length, a pontoon boat costs about as
much but can usually safely and legally carry a larger crew of friends and family. And boy does a ’toon offer
the deck space for milling around and lounging about.
While simple, low-powered and Pontoons also prove versatile. Builders even offer specialized
inexpensive pontoons are still versions, equipped to maximize enjoyment by offering tailored
available, even a “big-dollar” design and equipment lists for watersports, fishing, luxury
multiengine pontoon remains a entertaining and higher speeds. PONTOON
POWER
great value for family boaters. But simple or elaborate, dedicated to an activity or meant for
Choose the right
general use, a pontoon boat is still a boat, and we are required motor for your
to operate it safely. If you are new to boating and considering a pontoon boat—many new boaters are pontoon needs with
tips from our Titan
attracted to the great versatility of these craft—please enroll in a boating-safety course. These are
of ’Tooning. Go to
offered by the US Coast Guard Auxiliary and the US Power Squadrons, which you can Google for more boatingmag.com/
information. Besides gaining knowledge and confidence, attending a class will introduce you to other boats/choosing-
right-pontoon-
boaters in your area, with whom you can share tips, buying experiences and adventures. boat-engine.
If you prefer, courses approved by your state or province can be taken online. Visit BoatU.S. for a listing
at boatus.org/free.
Whether you choose an actual class or an online class, the registration fee is nominal. The experience,
like that of owning a pontoon boat, is priceless.
Kevin Falvey, Editor-in-Chief

editor@boatingmag.com

Oh they’ll be smiling all right. After all, what’s not to love about a
SunChaser? It’s the perfect pontoon for fishing, cruising, or just dropping
anchor and practicing cannonballs. We know you never want to get off the
pontoon, and with a full console, rounded bow, recessed cup holders, and
a changing room on board you might not have to. So c’mon, Dad. See your
dealer for a test spin. Now look who’s smiling.
BUILD YOUR OWN SUNCHASER PONTOON AT SUNCHASERBOATS.COM
YOU’RE UP FOR MOST ANYTHING. SO IS THE F90.

Making
Waves
BOATINGMAG.COM
PONTOON BUYERS GUIDE
2020
ON
BOARD
WITH...
SCAN ME
To read the
full interview
online, scan
this tag or go to
boatingmag.com/
annie.
The October 2019 cover model is also the

Annie subject of our “On Board With...”—and for
McFarland, good reason. Not only is Annie McFarland

an avid boater and talented on-air host,
On-Air Host/Boater/ but she is also a breast cancer survivor.
This inspiring southwest Floridian mom
Breast Cancer Survivor shares her story with us. —Garrett Cortese
What are some of your early boating experiences? diagnosed when I was 34 years old, and it was six weeks after
I grew up on Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota, doing lots of my kids’ dad passed away, so it was a really, really difficult
water-skiing and boating. Every summer I’d have a bathing year. But I think that the experience of losing Cody and then
suit on under my clothes because at some point in the day, having to fight breast cancer prompted me to fight even
PHOTO: GARRETT CORTESE
you knew you were going to end up in the water. harder because I couldn’t leave my kids without any parents.
But since I’ve been clean and clear of cancer, I have spent
What does it mean to you to be on Boating's October so much time trying to encourage, build up, and support
cover that was dedicated to breast cancer awareness? awareness for it, as well as women in my community who
It’s a really cool honor. [Being a survivor] has been a huge are also struggling with it. Getting to do this for Boating was
part of my journey and how I became who I am today. I was ridiculously humbling.

MAKING WAVES /// C A P T A I N ’ S T E S T
SPRING
1. If you check your gear case/ and inside your boat.
drive unit and the fluid is D. None of the above
COMMISSIONING
milky or watery, you should: E. All of the above
A. Refill it with fresh fluid.
B. Don’t worry about it—it 3. Before trailering your boat
It’s January while I write this, and here in southeast-
will be fine. to the ramp, it’s important to
ern Virginia, we’ve just had a week of 60-plus-degree C. Bring it to a dealer/ check several very important
temperatures and sunny skies. While there’s still more technician to check for areas. They should include:
winter to come, it’s a harbinger that indicates it will internal damage. A. Be sure you’ve inserted
soon be time to get the boat ready for the season. D. None of the above the hull drain plug.
There is no better time of year on a boater’s calendar. B. Check the trailer wheel
Let’s see how ready you are. —John Tiger 2. When removing the boat’s hubs for grease condi-
(Answers on page 10) cover, you see evidence tion and amount, and the
of rodent droppings and trailer tires for rot, tread
mildew. For next winter, wear and tire pressure.
you should: C. Ensure that the hull is
A. Ensure that your winter properly winched tight to
cover is better-sealed the trailer bow stop, and
and the perimeter is tied down at the stern
tight, leaving no potential with adequate straps.
openings for rodents. D. Make sure you have
PHOTO: COURTESY OPTIMA

B. Ensure that your cover snacks for the trip.
has well-placed vents to E. A, B and C
allow air circulation. F. All of the above
C. Place rodent repellent in
strategic places around (CONTINUED ON PAGE 10)
INTRODUCING THE FUTURE OF

PONTOON DESIGN.
STYLE. PERFORMANCE. EXCELLENCE.
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This boat features stylish designs, overstuffed
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P L AYC R AFT BOATS .C OM

MAKING WAVES /// C A P T A I N ’ S T E S T
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8) make the connection hull sides where the unless you keep pushing the
between the battery fading has occurred, primer/choke; it starts hard
4.. You go to crank the engine and starter. wet-sanding with very and runs roughly. What could
over, and it just clicks—and E. All of the above fine (2,000- or 3,000- be the cause?
won’t turn over. What could grit) sandpaper if A. The fuel is stale and
be the cause of the problem? 5. After removing the winter necessary. possibly laced with
A. The battery is dead. cover, you notice that there C. Bring the boat to a water/condensation.
B. The starter motor is is a distinct line where the gelcoat expert who can B. The fuel injectors
frozen/seized. sun has bleached your boat’s restore the finish. (or carburetors) are
C. The battery cables are gelcoat. The part under the D. B or C gummed up with dried,
not tight, or otherwise cover looks fine. What can E. None of the above stale fuel and water mix.
compromised (corroded you do? C. The gear case/drive is
inside, broken, etc.) A. Nothing, it’s now forever 6. After starting your outboard stuck in reverse.
D. The starter solenoid altered. for the first time in spring, D. A and B
is defective and won’t B. Carefully buff out the you notice it won’t idle E. All of the above
4. E. Any of these problems could be the cause. technician who can inspect and evaluate
A N SW E R S damaged from rust. Bring it to a dealer
not necessary. the gears, shafts and bearings might be
the carburetors/fuel injectors. 3. E. While D might be nice to have, it’s watery, and has been that way all winter,
on stale fuel, some of which has dried in 1. C. If your gear lube is milky and
6. D. The engine is very likely trying to run keep critters and mold out of your boat.
CAPTAIN’S TESTS ONLINE
2. E. All of these are good ways to help
experienced in hull refinishing).
Test your knowledge of boating with more
to restore the finish (B only if you’re before winter layup to avoid this problem.
Captain’s Tests at boatingmag.com/
5. D. Both B and C can be good ways it. Next season, check this in the fall
captains-test.
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BOAT DOCTOR /// Q U I C K S T U D Y
HOLD ÕEM HIGH

Pontoons are gaining
popularity as family
fishers when properly
equipped for action.
on their wish lists.

They’re just as im-
portant on a pontoon,
where rods often ride
in the open. If your
boat didn’t come rigged
FISH A
with holders and racks,
consider adding some.
PONTOON
Combine pleasure and Pisces.
Pontoons offer plenty of space and lots of comfort.
In triple-tube configurations especially, they can
handle plenty of power too, for swift voyages,
hauling a crowd, and popular watersports such as
tubing, skiing and wakeboarding.
But don’t neglect the possibility that a pontoon
can serve as your best fishing boat ever. Here’s how IN THE BAG Key to positioning the boat for BABY
to make the magic happen. —Steve Griffin pontoon-trolling, in casting, but hefty ones THAT BAIT
forward or reverse, is with plenty of battery Fishing-focused
BASS ACKWARD It’s like party-boat the trolling bag or sea can generally handle a pontoons often have
More anglers can fishing, in motion. anchor. Today’s long, half day’s trolling at baitwells and livewells
be stationed along triple-tube pontoons a slower speed. For as standard equip-
the rails of a pon- BOW FIRST Conven- track well but have drift-fishing, sea an- ment. If yours doesn’t,
toon than aboard a tional forward trolling shallow draft and chors and electric troll- consider plumbing
conventional fishing is often more successful lots of wind-catching ing motors can be used a storage bin, built-
COURTESY OFFSHORE TACKLE, COURTESY ENGEL, COURTESY CABELA’S, COURTESY RAYMARINE

boat of similar length. with in-line side-planer surface. Bags slow like thrusters to adjust a in cooler, or Engel’s
In back-trolling, the boards. Try offshore down boats for a more pontoon’s position with aerated livewell cooler
boat moves in reverse boards with “tattletale” natural presentation of surgical precision. to your deck gear, and
for maximum boat flags to indicate walleye lures and baits to fish. keep the bait fresh.
control at slow speeds, bites. Hating the mess RX FOR RODS When
tracking fish-holding of live bait, Michigan POWER UP we survey fishing-boat
structure while pro and radio host Mike Bow-mounted electric owners and shoppers,
anglers fish with Avery suggests hard- trolling motors are ac- they place rod holders
bottom-bouncer rigs. body baits or spoons. tually mainly used for and rod stowage high
PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) COURTESY APEX BOATS,
RAYMARINE Ideal for pontoon cruising and fresh- or saltwater fishing, Raymarine’s
Dragonfly series boasts GPS and sonar, including chirp DownVision
DRAGONFLY sonar. DownVision uses a wide-angle, high-frequency chirp transducer
7PRO to paint photolike images of structure, including fish, in relation to the
cover. Gimbal-mounted, it can be turned to face the helm seat or the
angler at the bow trolling motor. $459.95 (with a Navionics Plus chart);
thegpsstore.com

TOW-TUBE
SAFETY
Tips for towing tubers.
PICK UP? SHUT
Tubing is a catch-all term. Whether you tow your crew atop a six-seater DOWN! There is no
sea serpent, a torpedo for two, or a bona fide single-person tube, tubing reason to leave the
provides a ton of fun for all age groups. The skill level required for riders engine(s) running
and boat skippers might be less than that required for wakesurfing, when picking up
wakeboarding or water skiing, but attention to safety must be maintained. tubers. Even if you are
No article can cover all scenarios; but these tips should serve as a primer simply pulling them in
to those boaters new to tubing and a refresher course for old hands at from atop the float, the
the helm. —Kevin Falvey engine should be off to
eliminate the risk of
KEEP CLEAR Stay at WEAR LIFE off the transom, a injury from propellers,
least three towrope JACKETS Everyone nosediving tube can exhaust and a boat
lengths away from wears a life jacket. It cause loss of control that might lurch if its
shore, docks, navi- doesn’t matter that and/or a blown-out engine is left idling. If
gation aids, moored your 34-year-old cous- prop hub. Do not tow your boat is equipped
boats, and any other in Jethro worked as a from wake towers or with a generator, shut
obstructions and lifeguard and reached tall ski pylons. When that down too.
shallow water. If your all-county status for tubes nosedive, they
exert tremendous THE RIGHT ROPE
boat-stopping power Don’t repurpose a ski
SC AN M E that can pull a boat towrope for a tube
PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) GARRETT CORTESE, COURTESY OVERTON’S (2), COURTESY WEST MARINE
Scan this tag to view how-to video tips over on its side if the towline. For one thing,
for safely picking up a rider, swimmer or tow point is too high. the handle(s) will
diver from the water, or visit boatingmag
.com/tow-toy-safety.
bounce and skip and
KEEP A LOOKOUT splash water onto the
Some tube riders tubers. For another,
crew wipes out, they his swimming exploits just keep going and tubes, most of which
can be hurt. back at old Horace going and going carry multiple riders,
Harding High. (Go until the captain and exert much more
THROTTLE BACK Jaguars!) If there is crew aboard the boat pressure than a skier
Keep your speed under a wipeout, an injury become complacent or wakeboarder, and
20 mph max. Hitting might occur that can and, subsequently, so require a stronger
the water going fast turn a rider into a casual about watching line. Usually the tube
can break a neck, a victim faster than you what’s going on in the wake from behind a itself will be imprinted
limb or cause other can say, “But he was wake. That’s exactly point or out of a cove. with the minimum
horrific injury. We such a good swimmer.” the time your lulled- Maintain vigilance and breaking strength
skippers need to keep by-the-fun rider will formally assign one required to tow it
on our responsible hat TOW LOW Even fall off or another boat crewmember aboard safely. Invest in that
and put the welfare of tied to a flush ring will dart toward your to be the lookout. towrope.
our crew first—even if
they disagree.

ª
For more than 50 years, the

Ranger® name has stood for quality,
performance and innovation.
Ranger Reata® pontoons blend
these legendary traits with plush
comfort, family-friendly features
and wide open layouts that deliver
maximum fun, convenience and
peace of mind. Comfortable,
functional interiors meet stable,
smooth and versatile designs for
unsurpassed satisfaction. Ranger
Reata pontoons: Quality Of Life…
Carefully Crafted™.
TM/® are trademarks/registered trademarks of Ranger® Boats, a division of White River Marine
Group, LLC, its affiliates or suppliers. © Copyright MMXIX White River Marine Group R-9111
For The Name Of Your
Nearest Ranger ®Dealer, Call: 1-800-373-BOAT (2628)
to remove and install fuel-related boat fire.

without the proper Instead, replace it with
tools. See your local a quality anti-siphon
marine-supply store. valve. Hint: High-
quality valves cost
TANK Check the tank three times as much as
carefully for leaks, the cheap ones.
cracks and loose
mounting. Unless it’s
FUEL should feel stiff and
refill quickly after
leaking fuel into the
bilge, you might not
SYSTEMS squeezing. Primer

bulbs have check valves
even notice it. I’ve
serviced fuel tanks that
CHECKUP
inside that can fail and had all mounting tabs
leave you stranded. Use broken or cracked; the
a factory primer bulb; only thing keeping
Tips from tank to filter. aftermarket models are the tank in place was the
A fuel-system problem might leave you stranded typically of lesser quali- weight of the fuel and
on the water, or cause a fire or explosion. Problems ty and won’t flow fuel as tank-hose connections.
caused by poor fuel quality and ethanol-extended well as OEM units. While a new tank can be
(E10 and now E15) fuels increase maintenance expensive, it’s still a lot
and service costs, and even cause engine failure CLAMPS Fuel-line cheaper than a boat fire.
for boaters. Utilize these six tenets to help prevent clamps are critical. They
inconvenience and tragedy. —John Tiger prevent fuel leaks and, ANTI-SIPHON VALVE
just as important, air These are installed in
FUEL LINE Replace FILTER The fuel filter leaks. Air leaks can ruin the outlet fitting from
fuel lines older than should be replaced an engine in no time the tank to the engine,
three years with at least annually. If because the fuel- usually threaded into
EPA-compliant hose. your rig doesn’t have air mixture will become the fitting, with a hose
Install new clamps. The a water-separating lean and starve the nipple on the other
innards of older fuel fuel filter, now’s a good engine for fuel. Use new end where the fuel line
hoses are susceptible to time to add one. Check clamps if the old ones connects. They keep
alcohol deterioration. the filter’s flow rate won’t hold, are corroded fuel from flowing into
or are falling apart. Hose the bilge if a fuel-line
clamps are cheap com- failure occurs. If you
Difficulty pumping fuel to the engine? QU IC K pared with a damaged experience valve
Position your primer bulb vertically engine. Many engine failure, don’t simply
with the arrow pointing straight up. T IP manufacturers use remove the check-valve
Oetiker (oetiker.com) ball and spring from
clamps for fuel-hose inside the anti-siphon
They can collapse or against your engine’s connections. These are fitting. It’s against Coast
fall apart, clogging maximum fuel-burn secure, high-quality Guard regulations
the fuel system and rate. A filter with a clamps; however, they and could get you in
starving the engine of drain bowl is superior. are single-use only, trouble insurance-wise,
fuel. Newer fuel lines However, the standard and can be difficult and might cause a
PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) JIM HENDRICKS, JOHN TIGER (4)
use a tough inner liner, spin-on types also

visible by looking into work. Placement in
the end of the hose. It the fuel line should be
makes the hose stiffer
and harder to work
between the tank outlet
and the engine inlet.
S TA B I L Z E I T
The best fix for long-term storage of ethanol fuel is to add a stabilizer. Read the
with, and it’s more ex-
pensive. When routing PRIMER BULB Many directions on the bottle, and ensure that the conditioner mixes thoroughly with
the hose, make bends outboards use primer the fuel aboard. (If necessary, shake the boat back and forth for a few minutes.)
with a radius of at least bulbs, which may be At idle speeds, it might take 15 to 20 minutes to circulate the mixture through
6 inches to prevent damaged by ethanol the fuel system. Ideally, you’d stabilize for storage before making your last run
flow reduction. fuels. A primer bulb of the season, which ensures proper mixing and full-system protection.

INNOVATION AWARD WINNER
The Sylvan Mirage DLZ Bar is the first of its kind in the industry. With a rear double lounge
that transforms into a convenient rear LED-lit bar with four bar stools, Sylvan Marine has the
versatility you are looking for in a pontoon. Whether it’s a lady’s day out, family water sport fun,
or casting a line toward the catch of the day, Sylvan has floorplans that are perfect for you.
DESIGN YOUR OWN PONTOON AT SYLVANMARINE.COM
YOU’RE UP FOR MOST ANYTHING. SO IS THE F250.

BOAT DOCTOR /// W H AT T O L O O K F O R
BOATING
FIRST-AID KITS
Any boating adventure, whether a trip to the Arctic or an outing to the town dock
for an Eskimo Pie, offers the potential for injury to occur far away from the first-aid
and medical resources available on land. For this reason, a well-stocked first-aid
kit is an essential marine accessory. What should be in it? No list can be complete,
but consider these additions to the basic store-bought first-aid kit. —Kevin Falvey
CUTTING PLIERS An wet skin and stay on in a wet

embedded fishing hook can be environment. Put it on, wait 30
removed by pushing the barb minutes, and use it to pull out
through the skin, cutting off splinters and fish spines too.
the barb, then backing out the
hook. Larger, deeply embed- LUMBER Sure, you can
ded hooks, or hooks embedded use a boat hook, paddle or
in the eye, eyelid or tangled in driftwood to make a splint.
ligaments, should not be But consider purchasing
removed this way. some light boards or plastic
trim from the lumberyard or
CLOTH DIAPERS Pack- home center. Pre-cut a couple
aged gauze pads are antiseptic of 2-footers, 1-footers and
but small. Diapers, kept pack- 6-inchers. They’ll stow flat in-
aged, are soft, absorbent and side a locker, cabin or console.
PHOTOS: GARRETT CORTESE (TOP), KEVIN FALVEY, SHUTTERSTOCK (BOTTOM)

cleaner than your T-shirt. Use
them to apply direct pres- SPECIAL NEEDS It’s up
ANTIHISTAMINE Taking sure to a wound and to make to you to be prepared for the
SHEARS Watersports in- an antihistamine such as a dressing. Wash the area and special needs of your crew.
juries are common, and it can diphenhydramine (Benadryl) apply antiseptic first. It would be terrible to not
be difficult to remove a wake- or a nonsedating one such have an EpiPen aboard, for
board or water ski from a hurt as loratadine (Claritin) will DUCT TAPE Yeah, I know. instance, if an allergic crew-
rider. Thick, rubber and com- help with itching and swell- But use it to make a dress- member should get stung. A
posite bindings are best cut ing due to bites and stings ing with the diapers or your catheter and insulin are other
away with a pair of heavy-duty from insects, fish and jellyfish. T-shirt, stabilize a bone break examples. You might not have
shears, such as the Leather- Acetaminophen or ibuprofen with a splint or your boat hook, to purchase these as much as
man Raptors shown. A knife reduces pain. Urinating on a or also make an arm sling. insist that those who might
might work but risks further jellyfish sting is a waste of time Small bandages made with need them show up equipped
injury more than shears do. and might cause more pain. duct tape will adhere better to before you head out.
GLUE I’ve closed wounds

from knife cuts and shark
bites (just a nip, luckily) us- LEARN CPR
ing cyanoacrylate glue. Use Learning how to administer CPR—and getting updated because the
it when you’re located hours technique has changed over the years—is an imperative skill for boaters
away from the hospital. Pinch to possess. Local fire departments, schools and other organizations
the wound together and apply. offer classes, or check with the American Red Cross, which has a course
locater on its website. The Red Cross also sells better-than-average,
Other techniques are prefera- mission-specific first-aid kits. Visit redcross.org/take-a-class/cpr.
ble when closer to shore.

BOAT DOCTOR /// B O AT D O C S P E C I A L
livewell, washdown,
transom shower, sink or
whatever water circuit
is protected against
freeze damage.
MAKE A MULTITOOL
SIX USES
super neat. Remove BAILER For this use, I Cut the scoop shape
the cap—I find the jug’s suggest leaving the cap using a utility knife.
threads mate with those on, unless you assign Retain the cap; it will
FOR A
of some fill pipes, which the bailing task to a come in handy, as the
can make the jug a shipmate with a sense of accompanying text
hands-free tool. humor. So, the livewell explains. Add a lanyard
PLASTIC
or fish-box pump goes to make it easy to hang
FILTER CHANGER kaput? Break out the up or secure in the boat
Whether it’s the jug and bail out the box. or dinghy. Round bleach
JUG
side-mounted oil filter Have a dinghy or kayak? and soap jugs make
on my engine or the Tie the jug to a thwart the best all-around
fuel filter located at or frame to eliminate multitool, but a narrow
Real reasons for repurposing. arm’s length through an paddle drips and spray. oil or antifreeze jug can
8-inch-diameter deck be useful if you have a
plate, I use the jug to en- PUMP WINTERIZER need to scoop or bail
I keep a plastic jug—one with sure filter changes don’t Close the seacock, if in a narrow area. Feel
a handle—aboard my boat and include spills. After applicable, and remove free to add your boat’s
loosening the filter with a pump’s intake hose. name, apply stickers or
use it several times a year. It the wrench, I hold the With the cap on the jug, otherwise personalize it.
takes the place of items I might jug under the filter and fill it three-quarters Have fun, and consider
buy anyway, so it saves money. then spin it off by hand, full with nontoxic
antifreeze. Insert the
other ways you can
repurpose plastic or
catching the element,
And it performs multiple and any fuel or oil, for intake hose and turn minimize its use aboard.
functions, so it saves space. proper disposal. on the pump so your —Kevin Falvey
W
the boat. Keep the cap
on in this application.
HEAD The jug can

prove convenient when
nature calls. Use the jug
with the cap on for this
purpose, retaining the
With plastic filling our end product for disposal
oceans at an increasing upon completion of
rate, anything we can the deed. Bleach-based
do to keep it out of the disinfecting is recom-
waste stream helps. If a mended following use.
lot of people do a little
bit, it really does add up. FUNNEL Most boaters
know the trick of
SCOOP Whether it’s pouring over the handle
the cubes from the ma- to make pouring fluids
PHOTOS: GARRETT CORTESE
rina’s ice machine or the a neater job. Even so, a

sand your grandchild is funnel makes filling oil,
molding into a castle at adding fuel from a can,
your favorite cove, beach or topping off coolant
or sandbar, a scoop
comes in handy aboard

SAY ALOHA TO THE BEST FUN AFLOAT.
ESCAPE TO YOUR
OWN PARADISE
FILLED WITH FUN
AND RELAXATION.
» Superior Construction
Standards
» Ridiculously
Comfortable
Upholstery
» 16 Aloha Models
» Lifetime Hull and
Deck Warranty
3700 CRUTCHER
ALOHAPONTOONS.COM NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR 72118
501-753-2866 The Best
EMAIL: INFO@ALOHAPONTOONS.COM SINCE
SIN
NCE 1960
1
BOAT DOCTOR /// B O AT D O C S P E C I A L
PORTABLE
ONBOARD
SAT TV
Easy and affordable onboard satellite
HDTV—anywhere.
Your boat might not be

suitable or have enough
mounting space for a
permanently installed marine
satellite TV dome. What’s
more, with marine satellite TV
“We’re very passionate Adding HD sports secure the Playmaker
systems from companies such about the Dish Outdoors programming such as for watching TV while
as Intellian starting at around program,” says Amir the NFL Network or docked. The antenna
Ahmed, senior vice pres- NFL Red Zone ramps up comes with 25 feet of
$2,200, you might not want to ident of sales at Dish. the cost. One of the most coaxial cable to route
spend the money either. “The Playmaker is both popular is the American back inside the boat and
B
affordable and easy to set Top 120 Plus for $89.99 connect to the receiver.
tall, the Playmaker is up in minutes.” per month. The Wally includes a
based on the Carry- The Dish Outdoors There are two caveats: 6-foot HDMI cable to
Out antenna from HD programming One is the Playmaker connect with a TV, as
Winegard, which is packages start at $42.99 needs a clear view of well as a power cord to
popular in the RV per month for 50 the southern sky with plug into your 120-volt
market. Dish bundles popular channels, with no obstructions, such AC shore power,
a Wally receiver and no long-term contract as the flying bridge generator or inverter.
cables to quickly hook required. If you already of the boat in the slip After hooking up your
But there’s another up everything to an on- have Dish, it’s a $7 per next to you, nearby new system, there will be
option. Thanks to a board TV set. Dish also month additional pro- trees, buildings and the a quick setup procedure
new portable satellite offers Playmaker Dual gramming charge, and like. Second, and more that includes selecting
system, you can enjoy that lets you add a Wally it too is pay-as-you-go. problematic for boats, the state you are cur-
sports, movies and other to support two TVs. the dome is designed rently in and pressing
programming in high Hardware packages UNDER to work on a stationary “Scan” to start scanning
definition as you relax start at $348. THE DOME surface. That means the for satellites. Then the
or overnight aboard The Playmaker movement of boats and programming loads.
dish automati-
your boat, whether in a floating docks might After that, you can start
cally locks in on
marina or pulled up on available satel- result in signal loss. watching TV.
a beach, while paying lites for the best Dish recommends I assembled the
far less for the satellite HDTV reception. using a fixed dock, Playmaker dome and
equipment. seawall, or the shoreline Wally receiver in about
PHOTOS: COURTESY DISH NETWORK
Dish Network has where you’ve beached five minutes, and while
designed an afford- your boat for a party. the initial setup took
able system utilizing A clever DIY boater about 20 minutes, each
a 7½-pound satellite might be able to build subsequent connection
dome antenna it calls a shelf that attaches to took only a few minutes.
Playmaker. Measuring a piling to temporarily —Jim Hendricks
roughly 16 inches in
diameter and 13 inches

Y
ou can still buy a pontoon with quality construction,
basic amenities and moderate power. Such boats are
perfect for quiet, all-purpose cruising. Of course, many
pontoons now come with multiple high-horsepower engines,
seating and amenities that imitate those aboard luxurious cruisers,
and sport more bling than a pop star at the Grammy Awards. You
can enjoy slow, quiet cruises with those big, fast pontoons. You don’t
have to put the throttle down hard; it’s just fun to be able to do so
from time to time. See what the latest pontoon boats have to offer.
26 BENNINGTON SX 22 Swingback 38 PREMIER 250 Grand Majestic RL 48 PLAYCRAFT PowerToon X-Treme 2700
28 PRINCECRAFT Vectra 21 39 ALOHA Paradise 260 Arch Sport Tower 50 BARLETTA L25UC
29 RANGER RP 200F 40 MANITOU 25 Legacy SL 51 HARRIS Crowne 270 SL TE
30 SUNCHASER Geneva 22 LR PSB 42 BARLETTA E24QC 52 HARRIS Solstice 250 SLEC
32 SYLVAN L-3 DLZ 43 CREST Caribbean Platinum 250 SLS 54 AVALON 2585 Catalina Platinum EL-W
34 STARCRAFT CX 25 DL Bar 44 TAHOE PONTOONS 2585 Grand Tahoe QL 55 PLAYCRAFT PowerToon X-Treme 3000
35 BARLETTA C24UC 46 BENNINGTON 24 R Bowrider Swingback 56 QWEST LS 818 XRE Cruise
36 BENNINGTON 23 RX Sport Swingback 47 BENNINGTON 25 QX Fastback 58 G3 SunCatcher Elite 326 SL

PREMIER 250
GRAND MAJESTIC RL
combines luxury amenities
with the PTX performance
package to form a sweet ride.
PHOTO: TOM KING

B E N N I N G T O N SX 22 SWINGBACK
HIGH
POINTS
 Blackout
package gives
C
a subtle,
stylish look
to perimeter
rails, Bimini and
rub-rail insert.
 Lime-green
accent colors
provide flair.
CERTIFIED  Optional bow-
gate center
TEST
seat fills the
RESULTS gap up front
to complete
the seating.
S E E THE
VIDEO
To see our video
review of the SX
22 Swingback,
scan this tag or
visit boatingmag
.com/bbg20/
bennington
sx22swingback.
Price: $67,614
SPECS: LOA: 21'6" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: 2'7" DRY WEIGHT: 2,491 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 13/1,163 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 32 gal.
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha F150 four-stroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha Reliance 14.5" x 15" stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 2.00:1 FUEL LOAD: 35 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb.
T
he quintessential Bennington, the fuel trough; best economy occurs SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
naut. stat. n. mi. s. mi. sound
the SX 22 Swingback comes well- at a dinner-cruise speed of 11.4 mph, rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
equipped, performs nicely, proves 2,500 rpm and 4.6 miles per gallon. At 1000 3.7 4.3 0.7 5.3 6.1 192.2 221.1 0 52
1500 5.2 6.0 1.1 4.7 5.5 170.6 196.4 1 57
comfortable and smooth, and sells for a that speed, the noise level was a scant 2000 7.0 8.0 1.8 3.9 4.4 139.0 160.0 1 61
competitive price. It also sports touches 65 decibels, making conversation easy. It 2500 9.9 11.4 2.5 4.0 4.6 142.7 164.2 2 65
3000 14.1 16.2 4.0 3.5 4.1 126.7 145.8 2 68
including new custom Kicker speakers with cruises economically at higher speeds too. 3500 16.5 19.0 5.2 3.2 3.7 114.3 131.5 2 70
shallow design and plush Simtex pillow-top Cutting and carving turns at slow 4000 19.4 22.3 6.5 3.0 3.4 107.3 123.5 2 70
4500 22.7 26.1 8.3 2.7 3.1 98.4 113.2 2 76
lounges with metallic carbon accents. speeds was precise. At higher speeds, 5000 26.7 30.7 10.4 2.6 3.0 92.3 106.3 2 78
Performance? With the Yamaha there was little if any banking, and the 5500 30.0 34.5 13.0 2.3 2.7 83.0 95.5 2 86
6000 33.4 38.4 16.0 2.1 2.4 75.1 86.4 2 88
F150 outboard, its top speed approached lake chop and boat wakes we encountered
MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
40 mph at 6,000 rpm. We saw 30 mph were a mere bag o’ shells.
from a dead stop in 8.4 seconds—plenty Thank the Sport Performance System B E N N I N G T O N P O N T O O N B O AT S
Elkhart, Indiana; 888-906-2628; benningtonmarine.com
quick and powerful enough for family hull package: It includes three 25-inch-
watersports. This combo really sips at diameter tubes with lifting strakes on the
insides of the outer tubes and on the cen- sits in a plush captain’s chair, behind a
ter tube. Optionally, outside spray rails low-slung console. Electronic analog
can be ordered on the outside tubes to en- gauges flank a Garmin graph unit and a
hance lift, performance and ride. Though Rockford Fosgate stereo.
the fuel capacity at 30 gallons is plenty for Abaft, the swingback lounge seat adds
the Yamaha, an optional center-mounted more versatility and ease-of-use to the SX.
46-gallon fuel tank extends range. With the backrest in the rear position, a
There’s plenty of open deck before the generous three-person, forward-facing
bow fencing to aid in boarding, launch- bench seat is great for riding. Move the
ing or beaching. The bow section features backrest forward for sunbathing and
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
wraparound, facing lounges with optional watching the scenery out back. All-in for
center bow seat. This arrangement com- just under $68,000 makes this Bennington
fortably seats six. Amidships, the pilot a strong investment for fun.

!"# $ "$ % &'$

&'! *'+$ !(!) (%'( $,*

P R I N C E C R A F T VECTRA 21 RL
HIGH
POINTS
 The rear
C
lounge has
an adjustable
backrest
that can face
forward or aft
underway.
 Plush vinyl is
durable, easy to
clean and soft
CERTIFIED to the touch.
TEST  The bow gate is
RESULTS spring-loaded
so it shuts
automatically.
S E E THE
VIDEO
To watch our
video review of
the Vectra 21 RL,
scan this tag or
visit boatingmag
.com/bbg20/
princecraft
vectra21.
Price: $20,655 (base)
SPECS: LOA: 21'6" BEAM: 8'5" DRAFT (MAX): 6" DRY WEIGHT: 1,747 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 10/1,969 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 29 gal.
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 115 Pro XS DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/14 x 17 4-blade aluminum GEAR RATIO: 2.08:1 FUEL LOAD: 20 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 360 lb.
T
he 21-foot version of Princecraft’s friendliness and sociability to this pontoon. SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
venerable Vectra line of pontoons The stainless-steel ski tow bar is rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
has some notable new features for another new feature for 2020. It’s curved 1000 3.48 4.00 0.60 5.79 6.67 151 174 1 67
1500 4.43 5.10 1.10 4.03 4.64 105 121 2 69
2020; first and foremost is the rear lounge. to create more walk-around space at the 2000 6.08 7.00 1.50 4.06 4.67 106 122 3 71
Responsible for the “RL” designation in the back of the boat. Interior space is also op- 2500 7.13 8.20 1.80 3.96 4.56 103 119 3 72
3000 12.17 14.00 2.30 5.29 6.09 138 159 3 74
model name, the rear lounge sports an eas- timized with an optional dinette package. 3500 14.77 17.00 3.30 4.48 5.15 117 134 2 76
ily adjustable backrest, so you can face for- In place of a matching bucket seat to ac- 4000 16.68 19.20 4.80 3.48 4.00 91 104 2 78
4500 19.99 23.00 6.80 2.94 3.38 77 88 2 80
ward and join the conversation or face aft company the captain, this configuration 5000 21.81 25.10 8.60 2.54 2.92 66 76 2 82
and watch the wake. features a dinette table between a tran- 5500 25.37 29.20 10.20 2.49 2.86 65 75 1 84
6000 27.98 32.20 11.20 2.50 2.88 65 75 1 85
The optional stainless-steel safety rail- som sofa and love seat lounge that also has 6200 31.28 36.00 12.00 2.61 3.00 68 78 0 86
ing allows passengers to utilize the lounge an adjustable backrest. MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
while underway, and it features not one Should crewmembers opt to face P R I N C E C R A F T B O AT S
but two flip-down sections for easy access. forward and serve as co-captains, they’ll Princeville, Quebec, Canada; 800-395-8858; princecraft.com
It’s a great way to add even more family appreciate that the portside boarding
gate is hinged to swing away from that speed of 36 mph. We climbed onto plane in
seat. The seat base underneath serves as a 3.5 seconds, but with a pontoon like this,
draining cooler. Opposing couches in the there’s minimal squat and no loss of vi-
bow round out the seating that can hold sion out of the hole. The 115 proved a fine
up to 10 people, which is a good crowd for a match for fulfilling this boat’s family du-
pontoon that you can trailer. ties, but if you crave more horsepower, you
PHOTOS: COURTESY PRINCECRAFT BOATS
Our test boat came equipped with the can opt for the bigger Mercury 150 Pro XS.
Triple Tube Sport package, with lifting The ruby-red fencing on our test boat
strakes on the outer 25-inch-diameter really popped and turned a lot of heads at
pontoons as well as the inner half-tube. the dock. The Vectra is also available in
With the 115 hp Mercury Pro XS, we black or steel gray. No matter what styling
experienced smooth cornering and han- or options you choose, you’ll be able to
dling, and could easily accelerate to a top entertain a crowd in style.

R A N G E R RP 200F
HIGH
POINTS
 Optional fish
C
package
includes Minn
Kota motor and
Lowrance Hook
2 5-inch sonar/
GPS.
 LED courtesy
lights are handy
for night fishing.
 Aft boarding CERTIFIED
platform TEST
equipped
with a sturdy RESULTS
stainless-steel
boarding ladder
(standard).
SEE T H E
VIDEO

To see our video
review of the
RP 200F, scan
this tag or visit
boatingmag.com/
bbg20/ranger
rp200f.
Price: $28,315 (as tested)
SPECS: LOA: 21'11” BEAM: 8'6” DRAFT: N/A DRY WEIGHT: 1,700 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 10/1,370 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 32 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury
90 ELPT FourStroke Command Thrust DRIVE/PROPS: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 16" x 11" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 2.07:1 FUEL LOAD: 32 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 370 lb.
T
his is Ranger’s fourth year in out of the pontoon turbulence to enhance sporty-looking. The main seating area is
the pontoon marketplace, and acceleration and top end. Powered by a shaded by a standard Bimini top, which is
we think it’s the company’s 90 hp Mercury FourStroke outboard, the spring-assisted when raising or lowering
best, thanks, in part, to this new, fully RP 200F hit a top speed of 24.2 mph at it. The system works so well, smaller pas-
featured but value-priced RP 200F. Part 5,900 rpm and consumed an economical sengers can safely raise or lower the top
of the Classic Series, the affordable RP 8.3 gph. With the standard 40 hp Mercury without assistance. That makes choosing
PHOTOS: COURTESY RANGER BOATS
200F builds on Ranger’s premium-quality FourStroke, this pontoon prices at less full sun or cooling shade an easy choice
lineup. than $24,000. and one accomplished in seconds, not
The nearly 22-foot fishing pontoon An abundance of standard features minutes. To work it, flip open the Bimini
has plenty of crew-carrying capacity reduces the need to ponder options. support latches, fold back the brow, and
thanks to its 24-inch-diameter pontoons, Anglers will enjoy the two corner fishing lower the shade with one hand. It raises as
and ample performance courtesy of its stations at the bow, complete with rod and easily and quickly—eliminating the most
PowerPod motor mount that sets the tool holders. There is storage underneath, common complaint of Bimini tops.
propulsion aft of the logs for cleaner water with matching swivel pedestal fishing
chairs beside them. An aft fishing station
SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
boasts a livewell in its corner pod. The naut. stat. n. mi. s. mi. sound
rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
padded seat in front of the console holds a 1000 2.9 3.3 0.6 4.8 5.5 137.6 158.4 2 70
second livewell. Trolling-motor batteries 1500 4.3 4.9 0.9 4.7 5.4 136.3 156.8 3 72
2000 5.3 6.1 1.3 4.1 4.7 117.4 135.1 3 78
are stored beneath the console. There is
2500 7.2 8.3 1.8 4.0 4.6 115.4 132.8 4 78
a lockable rod box and ample storage for 3000 7.7 8.9 3.0 2.6 3.0 74.2 85.4 4 79
tackle, watersports gear and life jackets 3500 10.6 12.2 3.0 3.5 4.1 101.8 117.1 5 81
4000 12.2 14.0 4.0 3.0 3.5 87.6 100.8 6 82
underneath the seats in guttered storage 4500 15.2 17.5 5.4 2.8 3.2 81.1 93.3 6 84
that diverts water away from the gear. 5000 17.6 20.2 6.1 2.9 3.3 82.9 95.4 5 84
5500 19.4 22.3 7.9 2.5 2.8 70.6 81.3 5 88
The trolling motor is removable for 5900 21.0 24.2 8.3 2.5 2.9 73.0 84.0 5 91
family cruises made comfortable in the MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
luxurious, supple vinyl seats. The deck’s

R A N G E R B O AT S
vinyl woven mat is durable, washable and Flippin, Arkansas; 870-453-2222; rangerboats.com

S U N C H A S E R G E N E VA 2 2 L R P S B
HIGH
POINTS
 Sells for just
C
under $50,000
with a 115 hp
Yamaha
outboard.
 Raised driver’s
console aids
forward vision,
especially over
the bow.
CERTIFIED
 Reversible co-
TEST
pilot seat faces
RESULTS forward for the
ride, or aft for
lounging.
S E E THE
VIDEO
To watch our
video review of
the Geneva 22
LR PSB, scan
this tag or visit
boatingmag.com/
bbg20/sunchaser
geneva22.
Price: $49,737
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha F115 four-stroke 115 hp DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/13.5" x 12" Yamaha 3-blade aluminum GEAR RATIO: 2.15:1 FUEL LOAD: 28 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb.
S
unChaser’s Geneva 22 LR PSB of- the top-line 150 hp upgrade could be the SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
fers big-hull security and comfort, ticket to see speeds in the mid- to high 30s rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
and when packaged with a mid- and much stronger pulling power. 1000 2.7 3.1 0.5 5.4 6.2 184.3 212.0 2 60
1500 3.8 4.4 1.0 3.8 4.4 130.8 150.5 2 64
range Yamaha F115 for power, brings the Regardless, the Geneva 22 shines for 2000 4.8 5.5 1.4 3.4 3.9 116.8 134.4 3 66
price within reach of many first-time pon- family cruising and sightseeing as well 2500 6.1 7.0 2.1 2.9 3.3 99.1 114.0 3 74
3000 7.2 8.3 2.6 2.8 3.2 94.9 109.2 3 74
tooners who might want to dip their toes as sandbar rafting, watersports and din- 3500 9.8 11.3 3.3 3.0 3.4 101.8 117.1 3 75
before going all-out on a V-6 package. For ner cruising. Yamaha power proved quiet: 4000 14.0 16.1 4.5 3.1 3.6 106.3 122.4 3 75
4500 16.4 18.9 5.6 2.9 3.4 100.3 115.4 2 78
$50,000, it’s a sound investment. That The highest noise level we recorded at full 5000 18.7 21.5 6.8 2.7 3.2 94.0 108.1 2 80
price brings an acceleration of zero to throttle was 83 decibels. At cruise speeds, 5500 20.5 23.6 9.3 2.2 2.5 75.4 86.8 2 80
6000 22.9 26.3 10.8 2.1 2.4 72.4 83.3 2 82
30 mph in 6 seconds—on par with many we averaged about 68 decibels—that’s 6200 24.8 28.5 12.2 2.0 2.3 69.4 79.9 2 85
larger rigs; the Geneva’s most economical barely conversation-level noise. MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
cruising speed is 16 mph, using 3.6 miles The Geneva features the optional S U N C H A S E R B O AT S
per gallon. The only area feeling somewhat Executive Helm Package, which provides New Paris, Indiana; 866-719-7873; sunchaserboats.com
sedate is the top-end speed; at 28.5 mph, a raised-helm platform and a high-back
helm chair that slides and reclines. A tilt The optional teak-weave floor covering is
Verona steering wheel and Kicker stereo clean and provides easy washdown. Amid-
system are also included. A low Lexan ships, the reversible portside couch allows
windscreen offers some wind protection. for versatility in cruising or lounging. A
The gauge package has electronic units foldout table on the port side provides
presenting an analog appearance. storage behind it when closed.
For the hull, the optional PTS Perfor- Abaft, the long portside lounge fits four
mance Package also comes standard, and people, with room to spare, and faces a
includes three 25-inch-diameter tubes starboard lounge that fits three. The stern
with performance lifting strakes and deck is closed off by a perimeter fence with
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
below-deck shield. a center door; out back, a large deck is fit-

The forward layout includes two facing ted with a stainless-steel boarding ladder
lounges that can fit a pair of riders each. and tube ski pylon.

YOU BRING THE FUN!
WE’LL BRING THE POWER.
Choose Suzuki, the Ultimate Outboard Motor for an ultimate day of fun.
We build powerful, reliable outboard motors so you can make the most of
every day on the water. Find out how you can have fun on the water by visiting your
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Remember, drinking and driving don’t mix. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual.
Suzuki, the Suzuki S and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. © 2020 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
S Y L V A N L- 3 D L Z
HIGH
POINTS
 Superb value,
C
for a 24-footer
with top-rated
power.
 Evinrude G2
power delivers
quick accel-
eration and a
sporty feel.
 Stainless-
CERTIFIED steel aft gate,
TEST matching
boating ladder
RESULTS and ski tow
give the Sylvan
a refined and
upscale look.
S E E THE
VIDEO
To watch our
video review of
the L-3 DLZ, scan
this tag or visit
boatingmag.com/
bbg20/sylvan
l3dlz.
Price: $76,235
HOW WE TESTED: Evinrude E-Tec G2 two-stroke 250 hp DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/15.25" x 17" BRP Evinrude Rebel 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.85:1 FUEL LOAD: 25 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb.
S
ylvan rigged the L-3 DLZ to go, fencing and decor for 2020. For cruising SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
and boy, did it! With the 250 hp and partying, a set of short lounges in the rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
Evinrude G2 for power, it leaped bow face each other and will fit a couple 1000 3.8 4.4 0.7 5.5 6.3 295.0 339.4 0 60
1500 5.6 6.5 1.3 4.3 5.0 234.6 270.0 0 66
from a standing start to 30 mph in just of people each. The new Ultra Soft vinyl 2000 6.3 7.3 2.2 2.9 3.3 155.7 179.2 0 69
6 seconds. Top speed was nearly 45 mph upholstery proved comfortable and sup- 2500 7.8 9.0 3.4 2.3 2.6 124.2 142.9 1 75
3000 13.4 15.4 4.9 2.7 3.1 147.5 169.7 1 70
at just under 6,000 rpm. It delivers an old- portive, with recessed rotocast plastic 3500 18.2 21.0 6.6 2.8 3.2 149.3 171.8 1 72
school feel, with that good, throaty two- bases underneath. 4000 23.3 26.8 8.8 2.6 3.0 142.9 164.5 0 76
4500 27.8 32.0 10.7 2.6 3.0 140.3 161.5 0 78
stroke growl. Sound levels, however, didn’t Deep insets—aka toe-kicks—allow more 5000 30.2 34.8 13.8 2.2 2.5 118.3 136.2 0 84
get elevated until after about 4,000 rpm; at room in the cockpit, and don’t cut into 5500 34.5 39.7 18.9 1.8 2.1 98.6 113.4 0 84
5950 37.5 43.2 21.3 1.8 2.0 95.2 109.5 0 86
its most economical cruise speed (21 mph, underseat storage too much. Storage
3,500 rpm, 3.2 mpg), we recorded just 72 abounds on the DLZ; the optional SPX
decibels—quiet enough for conversation. Package with optional in-floor storage and S Y LVA N M A R I N E
New Paris, Indiana; 574-831-2950; sylvanmarine.com
This Sylvan is an excellent multipur- teak weave floor covering gives a modern
pose rig, and it’s stylish with new exterior look and easy cleanup when the day’s over.
Amidships, the driver’s console is not chairs provide a stable navigation station
raised and features a low, sculpted Lexan for the skipper and mate.
windscreen. A simple dash layout fea- Behind the cockpit is a nicely done
tures Evinrude’s combination electronic multiposition couch lounger, which can
instruments—which have a classic ana- be converted from a forward-facing two-
log look but offer every engine parameter person couch to a rear-facing lounge with
one needs in LCD-digital presentation. A a multiposition backrest. Neat.
brow or sun shield over the gauges would Abaft, a stainless-steel perimeter
make them easier to read. fence keeps everyone safely inside while
A Humminbird Helix 5 LCD graph fits underway and provides easy access to the
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
well in the dash center. A Kicker stereo stern deck for watersports. A matching
and cellphone-storage pocket complete ski tow and boarding ladder add utility
the helm. Dual captain and co-captain and clean style to the Sylvan’s look.

PASSION. PRECISION. PERFORMANCE
S TA R C R A F T CX 25 DL BAR
HIGH
POINTS
 Accelerates
quickly, provid-
C
ing pleasure
and thrills.
 Major innova-
tive thinking in
the aft deck's
convertible
bar/lounger
arrangement.
CERTIFIED  Bar seating for
four, coupled
TEST
with the center
RESULTS party pit, plus
the cool fore-
deck lounges.
S E E THE
VIDEO
To see our video
review of the
Starcraft CX 25
DL Bar, scan
this tag or visit
boatingmag.com/
bbg20/starcraft
cx25dlbar.
Price: $89,762
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha F250 four-stroke 250 hp DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series 15.75" x 13" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 45 gal.
CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb.
W
ith the do-everything CX 25 notice this cool arrangement, just as it’s SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
DL Bar, Starcraft takes a novel impossible not to enjoy it. rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
approach to pontoon boats, de- Cruising across the water on the way 1000 3.6 4.1 1.0 3.6 4.1 192.4 221.4 0 55
1500 5.0 5.8 1.8 2.8 3.2 151.2 174.0 0 57
veloping a convertible bar-turned-lounge out, this Starcraft won’t leave you want- 2000 7.1 8.2 2.7 2.6 3.0 142.5 164.0 1 63
arrangement on the aft deck of this new ing. With a Yamaha F250 outboard bolted 2500 11.2 12.9 4.1 2.7 3.1 147.6 169.9 2 69
3000 15.4 17.7 5.0 3.1 3.5 166.1 191.2 1 74
single-engine 25-footer—and boy does it to the stout transom bracket, it rockets to 3500 18.8 21.6 5.9 3.2 3.7 171.8 197.7 1 75
turn heads. Raft up to the fleet at the cove or 30 mph in a cat-quick 6.7 seconds, and 4000 22.8 26.2 8.6 2.6 3.0 143.0 164.5 1 74
4500 26.6 30.6 10.3 2.6 3.0 139.4 160.4 1 75
island, lower the bar, then recline and tan tops out just under 44 mph. 5000 29.7 34.2 13.5 2.2 2.5 118.9 136.8 1 75
yourself awhile. When the sun drops below The best economy we recorded comes 5500 32.8 37.8 16.9 1.9 2.2 105.0 120.8 1 76
6000 36.1 41.5 20.8 1.7 2.0 93.6 107.7 1 80
the yardarm (a phrase denoting cocktail at a nice 21.6 mph clip, turning 3,500 rpm 6250 37.8 43.5 23.4 1.6 1.9 87.2 100.4 1 87
hour aboard boats the world over), convert and burning 5.9 gallons per hour—that’s MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
the arrangement into the entertainment nearly 3.7 miles per gallon. This ’toon S TA R C R A F T M A R I N E
bar and watch as crowds of friends and rolls through turns with finesse and New Paris, Indiana; 866-772-4538; starcraftmarine.com
family belly up to it. It’s impossible not to sure-footedness. It’s a nice ride, to be sure.
The foredeck layout is conventional, performance cruiser, but as mentioned,
with two inward-facing lounge couches the real magic is abaft: Once your crew
that feature nice curved sections in the gets a look at that convertible bar/lounge
bow. The diamond-pleated, tufted-top setup, they’ll think of nothing else.
upholstery is plush; it feels great to sink But this craft’s fit for watersports
in and feel the comfort in the wind. And as well; besides the amidships party pit
it’s a bit windy; the console offers just with removable table and the out-back
a low, sculpted Lexan screen for the driver. bar setup, there’s a spacious aft deck for
Behind the windscreen is a fully swimming, hanging out, or diving in with
outfitted dash console, with Starcraft a tube or wakeboard.
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
electronic instruments that sport a classic The best part, perhaps, is the value:
analog appearance. The optional blackout This rig, even with the big-power Yamaha
perimeter rails add a sleek touch to this outboard, sells for a reasonable $90,000.

B A R L E T TA C24UC
HIGH
POINTS
 The featured
C
tube-tow
watersports
cage is
included with
the Triple Toon
package.
 Hertz marine
stereo with
six speakers, CERTIFIED
including two
facing out on TEST
the stern. RESULTS
 Stow-away
table in port
chaise.
SEE T H E
VIDEO

To watch our
video review of
the C24UC, scan
this tag or visit
boatingmag.com/
bbg20/barletta
c24uc.
Price: $67,693 (with Triple Toon Package/Mercury 200)
SPECS: LOA: 25'2" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'1" DRY WEIGHT: 3,194 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 13/1,700 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 34 gal.
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 200 PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 15.3" x 14" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.85:1 FUEL LOAD: 10 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 350 lb.
B
arletta’s C-Class marks the The C24UC combines two bow couches point. Stereo controls are within arm’s
builder’s first foray into an entry- (one is 6 feet, 2 inches in length, the other reach, as are a neat row of chrome-accent
level category. This boat shares is 6 feet, 8 inches) with twin captains’ rocker switches.
many of the construction details, fit- chairs amidships and a versatile Ultra Throttle the Mercury 200 outboard
and-finish and overall attention to detail Lounge aft. Bow couches feature gener- up and the C24UC, riding on a trio of
we’ve noted aboard Barletta’s high-end ous thigh bolsters and pillow tops, with 25-inch pontoons, smoothly transitions
offerings. I-beam crossmembers are bolt- integrated storage below. right onto plane, never presenting
ed to welded risers, with VIP technology: Captains’ chairs are comfortably any notable bow rise to interrupt the
polyurethane rubber isolation pads placed high-backed, with fl ip-down armrests. captain’s forward view. Turn the wheel
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
anywhere aluminum meets aluminum. It’s the Ultra Lounge, however, that over and the C24UC banks into corners
Power Biminis come standard rather than should prove a crew favorite. Upright, with the same silkiness of its flag-
being a pricey add-on. Furniture proves it’s a 4-foot-10-inch bench seat, with a ship siblings. Thirty miles per hour
plush and comfortable. And yes, there’s spacious sun pad behind. Pivot the seat- is reached in 6.7 seconds. Top speed
still a pullout doggie dish. back forward and form a mega-recliner. peaked at 37.2 mph.
Lower it fully flat and that sun pad grows
to a full 6½-by-5 feet. In this position,
you also can raise one or both of the naut. stat. n. mi. s. mi. sound
aftmost cushions to create a forward- 1000 3.91 4.50 1.00 3.91 4.50 120 138 0 58
facing recliner. 1500 5.47 6.30 1.50 3.65 4.20 112 129 1 61
2000 6.69 7.70 2.50 2.68 3.08 82 94 2 67
As you might expect on an entry-level 2500 10.86 12.50 2.80 3.88 4.46 119 137 2 73
model, the helm is somewhat minimal, 3000 15.12 17.40 4.00 3.78 4.35 116 133 1 77
3500 18.51 21.30 5.90 3.14 3.61 96 110 1 72
but it’s still full fiberglass, with a pair of 4000 21.64 24.90 7.50 2.89 3.32 88 102 1 72
chrome-rimmed, analog combo gauges 4500 25.29 29.10 9.90 2.55 2.94 78 90 2 74
5000 28.68 33.00 12.70 2.26 2.60 69 80 2 77
front and center on the dash and a stan-
5600 32.33 37.20 17.30 1.87 2.15 57 66 2 81
dard Lowrance 4x Hook GPS fish finder MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
set off to the right. The premium steering

B A R L E T TA P O N T O O N B O AT S
wheel is surprisingly stylish for the price Bristol, Indiana; 574-825-8900; barlettapontoonboats.com

B E N N I N G T O N 2 3 R X S P O RT S W I N G B A C K
HIGH
POINTS
 Dual, Rockford
C
Fosgate PMX-2
digital-media
receivers.
 Elliptical
Sports Package
provides V-hull-
like handling.
 Standard
CERTIFIED pop-up chang-
ing room;
TEST
additional
RESULTS storage below
the Swingback
seat.
S E E THE
VIDEO
To watch our
video review of
the 23 RX Sport
Swingback, scan
this tag or visit
boatingmag.com/
bbg20/bennington
23rxswingback.
Price: $121,528 (with test power, Elliptical Sport Package)
SPECS: LOA: 25’3” BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'3" DRY WEIGHT: 3,238 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 14/1,974 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 50 gal.
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha 250 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series II 153/4” x 15” 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 50 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 390 lb.
A
limited-edition model in 2019, gates and seatbacks, and similar aluminum SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
Bennington’s feature-packed 23 cladding for the interior rails, and the net rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
RX Sport Swingback enjoys effect is a decidedly upscale vibe and look. 1000 4.52 5.20 1.60 2.82 3.25 127 146 0 59
1500 5.74 6.60 2.20 2.61 3.00 117 135 0 62
full-time status for 2020. In addition to The bow features twin chaises, the 2000 7.91 9.10 3.20 2.47 2.84 111 128 2 67
the Swingback bench aft, the RX Sport port 4 feet in length and the starboard 2500 13.56 15.60 4.50 3.01 3.47 136 156 2 69
3000 17.29 19.90 6.10 2.83 3.26 128 147 1 75
comes with an impressive list of standard 5 feet, both offering abundant stowage be- 3500 20.94 24.10 8.20 2.55 2.94 115 132 1 75
features. Aluminum-clad rails ring the low. Note the starboard seatback: It pivots 4000 23.20 26.70 10.60 2.19 2.52 98 113 2 77
4500 27.81 32.00 14.00 1.99 2.29 89 103 2 79
perimeter, with sweeping lines and stain- up and out to continue storage well under 5000 31.11 35.80 17.60 1.77 2.03 80 92 1 84
less-steel and mesh accents aft. Deck trim, the helm. Aft, a 5-foot-8-inch port couch 5500 34.15 39.30 21.40 1.60 1.84 72 83 1 87
5800 36.84 42.40 24.40 1.51 1.74 68 78 1 87
deck skirt and Bimini frame are stylishly adjoins the 5-foot-wide Swingback seat to
blacked-out. Within, Bennington’s Sport form an L-shaped lounge. Pivot the Swing-
interior adds a linen-like texture to vinyl back seatback forward, and it creates an B E N N I N G T O N P O N T O O N B O AT S
Elkhart, Indiana; 888-906-2628; benningtonmarine.com
seat coverings, with contrasting accents. inviting aft-facing recliner over 6 feet in
Add the Bennington wing logo to the entry width with 4 feet of length to stretch your
legs. A stylish, beefy stainless-steel rail Simrad flat-screen display, arrayed
rings the perimeter. Stereo controls are neatly around a three-spoke wheel with
at the ready, as are a pair of rear-facing matching wood-grain accents.
speakers. Pop-up changing room and Our test boat’s Yamaha 250 outboard
additional storage are found below. pushed the RX onto plane in 4 seconds,
Bennington opts not to raise the helm, past 30 mph in 7.5, and topped out at
instead gently sloping the bow rails and 42.4 mph. The optional Elliptical Sports
seatbacks to offer a few more degrees Package provides V-hull-like handling
of visibility for the captain and create via a unique, 32-inch elliptically shaped
a sleeker profile. The dash showcases center pontoon and produced a sporty,
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
the builder’s typical attention to detail, intuitive bank into corners, which was
with neat rows of stainless-steel toggle some of the smoothest cornering we’ve
switches and, on our test boat, an optional experienced while testing a pontoon.

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provided through Boat Association Insurance Services, license #0H87086. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2019 GEICO
P R E M I E R 250 GRAND MAJESTIC RL
HIGH
POINTS
 PTX package’s
C
hydrodynamic
features for
banked turns
and higher
speeds.
 Seven-position
rear lounge.
 The 12-inch
CERTIFIED Simrad display
at the helm
TEST might be the
RESULTS pontoon indus-
try’s largest.
S E E THE
VIDEO
To watch our
video review of
the 250 Grand

Majestic RL,
scan this tag or
visit boatingmag
.com/bbg20/
premier250
grandmajesticrl.
Price: $134,280 (as tested)
SPECS: LOA: 25'5" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'6" (without drive) DRY WEIGHT: 4,000 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 18/3,050 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 80 gal.
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: 300 hp Yamaha F300 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/153/4" x 15" Yamaha Saltwater 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.76:1 FUEL LOAD: 15 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb.
S
hooting to 30 mph in 6 seconds with PTX is the center tube, which, unlike SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
flat, Premier’s 250 Grand that of other pontoon-makers, is neither rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
Majestic RL also delivered round nor elliptical. Instead, the PTX cen- 1000 4.3 4.9 1.3 3.3 3.8 138.5 159.4 0 60
1500 5.9 6.8 2.1 2.8 3.2 119.0 137.0 1 67
quicker-than-most-pontoons responsive- ter tube presents a U-shaped cross-section, 2000 9.3 10.7 3.2 2.9 3.4 124.1 142.8 3 72
ness and banked comfortably into the with a flat bottom. These come in 42-, 30-, 2500 14.0 16.1 4.4 3.2 3.7 134.5 154.8 3 75
3000 17.4 20.0 6.2 2.8 3.2 118.6 136.5 2 80
high-speed, locked-over turns that repre- 25- and, as our test boat was outfitted, 3500 20.9 24.0 8.1 2.6 3.0 108.9 125.3 2 85
sent a part of Boating’s boat-test regimen. 36-inch widths. The relatively increased 4000 24.5 28.2 11.0 2.2 2.6 94.2 108.4 2 87
4500 27.8 32.0 13.8 2.0 2.3 85.2 98.1 2 88
While some credit for this new pontoon’s volume of these tubes provides more buoy- 5000 32.2 37.0 17.8 1.8 2.1 76.4 87.9 1 89
handling and speed certainly goes to the ancy, while the flat bottom provides more 5500 34.8 40.0 22.9 1.5 1.7 64.2 73.9 1 89
6000 37.9 43.6 25.8 1.5 1.7 62.1 71.5 1 93
power provided by the Yamaha F300 out- lift. Also part of PTX are sealed, extruded
board bolted to its transom, Premier’s PTX and contoured lifting strakes on the inside
performance package takes center stage. of the outer tubes that allow the boat to get PREMIER MARINE
Wyoming, Minnesota; 651-462-2880; pontoons.com
PTX is a system developed by Premier up on plane faster and increase top speed.
to enhance performance. The “big thing” A hydrodynamic Performance Sheeting,
aka underskinning, sheathes the underside holder and wireless phone charger. This
of the deck, shedding water and enhancing ’toon also sports a standard changing room
speed. Finally, the fuel tank is built into with a portable potty, or pump-out head—
the aft part of the tube for balance and your option. It gets the RL designation from
stability. While it’s not part of PTX, the the capacious rear lounge, which converts
broad splash fins on the nose cones prevent to seven different positions. With the sturdy
splash; they also prevent the bows from stainless-steel aft rails, it’s both safe and
diving. Also note that the tubes are covered legal to lounge here underway. The uphol-
in a protective film to thwart dock rash. stered front of some hatches struck us as a
The helm proved just as impressive with unique and attractive dash of style.
its 12-inch Simrad touchscreen—the biggest Seeking performance, luxury and
PHOTOS: TOM KING
screen on a pontoon yet—and standard RGB comfort? Check out Premier’s 250 Grand
lighting, JL Audio system, refrigerated cup Majestic RL.

A L O H A PA R A D I S E 2 6 0 A R C H S P O RT T O W E R
HIGH
POINTS
 The heavy-duty
rail tubes and
C
acrylic side
panels are
unique and
exciting.
 Extra-solid
aluminum
seat bases are
custom-built
in the factory,
not acquired. CERTIFIED
 Three-panel TEST
dashboard has RESULTS
a space-age
look.
SEE T H E
VIDEO
To watch our

video review of
the Paradise 260
Arch Sport Tower,
scan this tag or
visit boatingmag
.com/bbg20/
alohaparadise260.
Price: $96,385
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury Verado 350 hp DRIVE/PROPS: Mercury Mirage 15.25" x 19" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 25 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 250 lb.
T
here is a “same old sameness” to The look proves not only stunning, but also our test boat, and the patterns are swooping
many pontoons, and only a few extra quiet underway due to the elimination banners complementing the lines of the
builders have managed to crack of drumming aluminum side skins. Even side-rail tubing. The seat cushions are deep,
that mold. Aloha’s new Paradise Series the Bimini top arch is solidly fashioned from softening the ride even in rough water, and
shows it’s one of the trendsetters. 2-inch tubing, and it’s all factory-painted the seat bases are solid, thanks to Aloha’s
Instead of 1-inch, square side-rail tubing, with durable (acrylic or epoxy) paint. factory-made aluminum seat bases.
Aloha employs the same heavy-duty 2-inch If the Aloha Paradise looks sporty Aloha’s tubes are 26 inches in diameter
pipework used for tuna towers in sport- on the outside, step up to the helm deck, and made of the heaviest 0.100-gauge alu-
fishers. The company bends and welds the 4 inches higher than the crew deck, and en- minum. Ours were also factory-painted,
PHOTOS: LUKE YONGE
rail in the factory, shaping it to swooping joy the thrill of 350 hp. Once snugged into but not until M brackets were welded to the
lines that give this performance pontoon an the reclining bucket command seat with tubes and crossmembers were welded to
even faster look. Then, instead of stretch- adjustable armrests, we stretched our arms the brackets—a solid technique eliminating
ing aluminum skins over the tubes, Aloha easily to the tilt wheel. A three-panel dash bolts and other fasteners in the chassis.
fashions ⅜-inch-thick black acrylic panels. held all systems switches on the left panel,
a Mercury Vessel View gauge in the center,
and a Humminbird Helix 7 chart plotter and naut. stat. n. mi. s. mi. sound
sonar system to the right. With the latter,
1000 4.3 4.9 1.3 3.3 3.8 135.6 156.0 0 61
there is little excuse for losing your way or 1500 5.4 6.2 1.9 2.8 3.3 117.4 135.1 0 69
running aground. On the front of the helm 2000 6.6 7.6 2.7 2.4 2.8 101.3 116.5 0 70
2500 7.9 9.1 3.9 2.0 2.3 83.9 96.6 1 75
station, there’s a locker for fenders, and the 3000 10.8 12.4 5.4 2.0 2.3 82.6 95.1 3 75
locker is easily removable to gain access to 3500 15.6 18.0 7.3 2.1 2.5 88.7 102.1 2 78
4000 22.2 25.5 10.3 2.2 2.5 89.1 102.5 2 81
the dash panel for electrical maintenance. 4500 28.2 32.4 14.3 2.0 2.3 81.5 93.8 2 85
Find batteries and battery switches inside 5000 33.4 38.4 18.8 1.8 2.0 73.5 84.6 0 86
5500 39.6 45.6 28.7 1.4 1.6 57.2 65.8 0 88
the aft seat. Convenient. 6000 41.1 47.3 28.9 1.4 1.6 58.9 67.8 0 89
Upholstery is carefully cut and sewn in MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
Aloha’s factory to have contrasting colors,

ALOHA
including a white pearlescent base color on North Little Rock, Arkansas; 501-753-2866; alohapontoons.com

M A N I T O U 25 LEGACY SL
HIGH
POINTS
 Digital Vessel
C
Control offers
touchscreen,
smartphone or
key-fob control.
 SL lounge
includes ratch-
eting backrest
that stops at
CERTIFIED various stages
of recline.
TEST
 Standard
RESULTS underhelm
storage, plus a
handy oversize
glove box.
S E E THE
VIDEO
To see our video

review of the 25
Legacy SL, scan
this tag or visit
boatingmag.com/
bbg20/manitou
25legacysl.
Price: $94,700
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Evinrude G2 300 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Evinrude Rebel 151/2" x 16" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.85:1 FUEL LOAD: 43 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 360 lb.
L
ike nearly all Manitous we’ve lifting strakes of Manitou’s Sport SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
tested over the years, the 25 Handling Package on all three tubes, rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
Legacy SL featured an ultra- Teleflex SeaStar Power Assist steering 1000 4.52 5.20 0.70 6.46 7.43 250 287 0 64
1500 6.34 7.30 1.40 4.53 5.21 175 202 1 68
smooth ride and a sporty, inside lean and a performance transom design, and 2000 7.99 9.20 2.50 3.20 3.68 124 142 2 77
through the corners that’s more akin to the result is a boat that powers instantly 2500 11.47 13.20 3.90 2.94 3.38 114 131 3 80
3000 16.42 18.90 5.70 2.88 3.32 112 128 2 76
a traditional V-hull. Chalk it up to the onto plane, banks sweetly into turns and, 3500 19.90 22.90 7.40 2.69 3.09 104 120 2 79
builder’s patented V-Toon technology. with our test boat’s 300 hp Evinrude G3, 4000 24.42 28.10 10.20 2.39 2.75 93 107 2 87
4500 31.11 35.80 13.30 2.34 2.69 91 104 2 83
Twin 25-inch pontoons flank a central topped out at over 48 mph. 5000 35.98 41.40 17.20 2.09 2.41 81 93 2 85
27-inch pontoon, dropped lower than Manitou carries the performance feel 5500 39.54 45.50 23.90 1.65 1.90 64 74 2 91
5700 41.80 48.10 23.90 1.75 2.01 68 78 3 91
the outer tubes. Taking into account the below onto the look and feel of the helm
central tube’s added girth, the effect is to above. Here, a standard 7-inch Garmin
lower the bottom of the center pontoon touchscreen display is surrounded in the M A N I T O U P O N T O O N B O AT S
Lansing, Michigan; manitoupontoonboats.com
a full 51∕4 inches and mimic a V-hull’s brand’s trademark billet aluminum, an
shape. Add the wide, positive-angle accent that continues with the retaining
gate for a padded cellphone tray, onto the other 5 feet, 10 inches—feature generous
propellerlike spokes of the tilt steering thigh bolsters and artistic, quiltlike stitch-
wheel and, in more functional fashion, ing in the lumbar region. That same stitch
the billet transom. pattern is found in the twin captains’
Elsewhere, optional matte-black chairs (each with a flip-up bolster) and on
powder coating provides a pleasant con- the interior panels of the aft SL lounge.
trast, coloring the stylish supports for the The latter can be set up as a forward-
minimalist glass windscreen, traditional facing bench with rear playpen, forward-
pontoon fencing and Bimini hardware. or aft-facing recliner, or just one giant
While both handling and styling 6-foot-8-inch-by-5-foot-2-inch sun bed.
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
scream performance, the 25 Legacy SL’s No less than eight cup holders
interior is all about luxury. Forward par- surround the perimeter. A stereo remote
allel lounges—one 5 feet, 4 inches and the is just an arm’s length away.

INTELLIGENT DESIGN
ON EVERY HORIZON
JOYSTICK CONTROL SYSTEM

Optimus 360 gives your boat a whole new dimension of control. By
developing the joystick function to be intuitive, Optimus 360 allows
you to move your boat not only forward and back, but also sideways,
by pushing the joystick to the left, or to the right, and even, rotate on
a dime, all with a simple twist of the joystick.
Take command at dometic.com

B A R L E T TA E24QC
HIGH
POINTS
 Raised driver’s
C
console with
dual-pad
footrest is well-
engineered.
 Standard
stainless-steel
ski tow and
boarding ladder
are stout and
CERTIFIED won't rattle.
TEST  Hertz stereo

system takes
RESULTS clean sound
and ease of
use to the
next level.
S E E THE
VIDEO
To see our video

review of the
E24QC, scan
this tag or visit
boatingmag.com/
bbg20/barletta
e24qc.
Price: $96,970
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 250 FourStroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 14.7" x 16" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 16 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb.
T
his is Barletta’s sophomore year, from zero to 30 mph in 6.5 seconds and a SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
but it is playing at varsity level. top speed of 44.5 mph at 5,800 rpm. Fuel rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
The builder’s offerings this year mileage? Best cruise netted 4 mpg (3.6 1000 4.0 4.6 1.3 3.1 3.5 99.6 114.6 0 54
1500 5.6 6.5 2.1 2.7 3.1 87.1 100.3 0 60
are fully equipped, and Barletta provides gph) at 14.5 mph and 2,500 rpm. Handling 2000 8.1 9.3 3.1 2.6 3.0 84.5 97.2 1 63
features, construction, performance and was sharp, with excellent turning ability 2500 12.6 14.5 3.6 3.5 4.0 113.4 130.5 1 67
3000 15.9 18.3 5.1 3.1 3.6 101.0 116.3 0 69
styling on par with the best in the in- and no bounce or wallowing at any speed. 3500 19.3 22.2 7.0 2.8 3.2 89.3 102.8 0 69
dustry. This E24QC with a Mercury 250 Minimum plane speed occurred at just 4000 23.2 26.7 9.2 2.5 2.9 81.7 94.0 0 70
4500 27.4 31.5 11.6 2.4 2.7 76.5 88.0 0 74
FourStroke provided strong performance, 14 mph at 2,500 rpm; that makes for a nice 5000 32.2 37.0 14.2 2.3 2.6 73.4 84.4 0 77
attention-grabbing good looks and many dinner-cruise speed, especially with a low 5500 36.9 42.5 20.2 1.8 2.1 59.2 68.2 0 78
5800 38.7 44.5 21.4 1.8 2.1 58.5 67.4 0 78
well-engineered features. Performance- cockpit-noise level of just 67 decibels.
wise, the 26-inch diameter tubes with Below the deck, the Barletta employs
full-length lifting strakes and outside crossmembers that are extruded I-beams, B A R L E T TA B O AT C O M PA N Y
Bristol, Indiana; 574-825-8900; barlettapontoonboats.com
spray rails on the outer tubes worked gasketed at every bolted joint. The deck
with the Mercury to provide acceleration is 3∕4-inch plywood, glued and screwed
together and to the structure. Barletta of- slide and tilt. Abaft, twin facing love seat
fers few hull options, preferring to make lounges make a cozy conversation pit.
things easier in the ordering process. The Custom touches abound, such as
“performance” options on other hulls upholstered seat bases, pillow-tufted
(underdeck covering, large-diameter upholstery, USB charging ports at every
tubes, lifting strakes, full-length center seating location, a custom pop-out pet
tube, and outside spray rails) are standard. dish, clean and well-routed rigging, and a
The deck layout is simple yet effective driver’s console that’s raised and features
for cruising, gatherings and watersports. a two-position footrest area. The E24QC
The bow features long, facing loungers challenges the establishment, and does
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
that will easily handle a few passengers it with engineering, performance and
per side. Amidships, the cockpit offers features, and relative affordability: A cool
twin captain/copilot chairs that swivel, $100,000 buys it, as tested.

C R E S T C A R I B B E A N P L AT I N U M 2 5 0 S L S
HIGH
POINTS
 Deluxe flooring
offers the
C
upscale look of
aged teak, with
the minimal
maintenance
of vinyl.
 Cool standards
include RGB
lighting and a
refrigerated— CERTIFIED
yes, refriger-
ated—captain’s TEST
cup holder at
RESULTS
the helm.
SEE T H E
VIDEO
To see our video
review of the

Caribbean Plati-
num 250 SLS,
scan this tag or
visit boatingmag
.com/bbg20/
crestcaribbean
platinum.
Price: $120,785 (with test power)
SPECS: LOA: 26'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'3" DRY WEIGHT: 3,742 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 12/1,740 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 85 gal.
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 300 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 15" x 15" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 40 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 355 lb.
C
rest’s Caribbean line of pontoon there while loading and unloading gear, a facing the swim platform. Pivot the
boats promises exceptional com- convenience you’ll appreciate every time seatback forward, and the focus shifts to an
fort, a fact that rings true the you take this ’toon out for a ride. aft-facing recliner; angle it all the way flat
moment you step through the bow gate into Adjacent to the side boarding gate, a to form a 4-feet-8-inch-by-3-feet-4-inch
the luxury of this boat’s cockpit. Parallel standard privacy curtain rises out of the sun bed. Aft cushions tilt up on a ratchet-
lounges stretch a full 7 feet on both the port tail end of the port bench. Switch it out for ing mechanism to provide various angles of
PHOTOS: COURTESY CREST MARINE
and starboard sides. The accent in the lum- a handy set of drawers or a convenient set forward-facing back support if desired.
bar region features a unique texture and of tables. The helm looks just like a work of Underway, the Caribbean revealed
raised pattern. Stowage is found below art to us. It is covered in billet aluminum agile manners, riding on a 25-/26-/25-inch
in gelcoated fiberglass—not roto-molded panels that have been machined to not only triple-tube combo that easily handled a va-
plastic—seat bases, and handy coolers rest look towboat-hip, but also include hooded riety of water conditions. With a Mercury
below the center portion of each bench. gauge surrounds. Rather than plastic rock- 300 outboard on the transom, the boat
Articulating hinges allow seat bases to er switches, aircraft-style toggle switches zoomed forward, topping out at 43.2 mph.
pivot fully up for access, and keep them add the perfect complement to both the left
and right side of a stylish, stainless-steel- SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
spoked wheel. Centered above is a Simrad rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
touchscreen multifunction display. Across 1000 4.08 4.70 1.20 3.40 3.92 245 282 0 60
the entire helm, multiple angles and facets 1500 5.82 6.70 1.90 3.06 3.53 221 254 0 64
2000 7.82 9.00 2.90 2.70 3.10 194 223 1 65
result in a futuristic look while providing 2500 11.21 12.90 3.80 2.95 3.39 212 244 2 72
excellent ergonomics. 3000 15.73 18.10 5.60 2.81 3.23 202 233 2 72
3500 17.55 20.20 7.40 2.37 2.73 171 197 2 73
To port, Crest completes seating with 4000 23.03 26.50 9.60 2.40 2.76 173 199 2 75
an additional captain’s chair followed 4500 27.20 31.30 11.90 2.29 2.63 165 189 2 78
5000 29.37 33.80 13.70 2.14 2.47 154 178 1 79
by an L-shaped bench aft, the central 5500 33.89 39.00 19.80 1.71 1.97 123 142 1 85
portion of which features a powered, 6000 36.72 43.20 24.00 1.53 1.80 110 130 1 86
four-position swing-back seat. In normal
running position it’s a forward-facing
CREST MARINE
bench, with a near-mirror-image bench Owosso, Michigan; 989-725-5188; crestpontoonboats.com

T A H O E P O N T O O N S 2 5 8 5 G R A N D TA H O E Q L
HIGH
POINTS
C
 JL Mediamaster
MM100 Stereo
with six JL
Premium
speakers, with
chrome grills,
LED speaker
lights and a
JL Audio four-
channel ampli-
CERTIFIED fier for volume
TEST and clarity.
RESULTS  Admiral high-

back reclining
helm seat
boasts quality
features such
as easy-to-
reach remote
levers for
swivel and tilt,
plus an adjust-
able-height
pedestal.
 RGB interior
mood lighting
mates with
RGB under-
rub-rail lighting
and the
RGB-lighted
cup holders.
Together, these
provide great
Price: $146,434 ambience.
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 300 Verado DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 14" x 19" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 29 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 350 lb.
T
he Grand Tahoe series is Tahoe’s our test boat, a sweeping overhead powered SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
flagship offering, emphasizing arch completed the flagship looks. rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
luxury above deck and Open the beefy, fiberglass bow door: 1000 4.17 4.80 1.50 2.78 3.20 145 167 0 57
1500 5.74 6.60 2.20 2.61 3.00 136 157 0 62
performance below. The former becomes Facing couches await. Pillow tops and 2000 7.73 8.90 3.20 2.42 2.78 126 145 1 65
apparent the minute you see it. Rather than thigh bolsters add comfort and security. 2500 11.12 12.80 4.20 2.65 3.05 138 159 2 68
3000 15.38 17.70 5.90 2.61 3.00 136 157 1 72
exposed fencing, the exterior is cutting- Rather than roto-molded plastic, seat 3500 18.73 21.55 8.20 2.28 2.63 119 137 1 74
edge sleek, with smooth, painted aluminum bases are framed in aluminum tubing and 4000 22.77 26.20 10.50 2.17 2.50 113 130 1 75
4500 26.50 30.50 13.20 2.01 2.31 105 121 2 78
panels teeming with sculpted fiberglass, covered in vented enclosures to keep con- 5000 31.28 36.00 17.70 1.77 2.03 92 106 2 82
merging the looks of traditional pontoons tents aired out and dry. Take a seat at the 5500 37.28 42.90 21.10 1.77 2.03 92 106 2 85
5740 0.00 43.20 23.30 0.00 1.85 0 97 2 84
and fiberglass cruisers. A stainless-capped, upscale fiberglass helm and take control
wraparound, TaylorMade walk-through using the two primary touchscreens dis-
windshield sits atop the consoles. Aft, twin playing general engine information, with TA H O E P O N T O O N B O AT S
Alma, Michigan; 800-334-2913; tahoepontoons.com
stowage trunks reside in the stylish fiber- lighting and stereo controls. To the left, a
glass modules that define the stern. Aboard Hummingbird Helix 5 GPS is at the ready.
A trio of flat, traylike areas accommodate hole and was almost instantly on plane.
phones or other small items; multiple USB Below deck, Tahoe’s Waveglider High
ports and 12-volt outlet await below. Performance system produced a smooth
Opposite the helm, the port console ride with a noticeable performance feel.
features a flat, faux-granite workspace Triple 27-inch pontoons feature unique
with a glove box. Aft, two more couches extruded lifting fins with a cupped design
await, with forward-facing backrests. As that Tahoe promises will reduce drag,
in the bow, plentiful storage awaits below. produce a higher plane off the water, and
At the stern, a deep swim platform and deliver a fast, smooth ride in a variety of
four-step stainless ladder make for easy water conditions. That higher running
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
water access. angle can be seen in our test numbers.

Powered by a Mercury Verado 300 The 30 mph threshold was reached in
outboard, our test boat jumped out of the 8.6 seconds. Top speed averaged 46.4 mph.

When it’s time to move up to a better pontoon, there’s no better choice than a luxury-minded Starcraft. With
an unmatched heritage of quality and craftsmanship, Starcraft pontoons continually set the standard for
better experiences on the water. It takes a heritage of pride and excellence to build Best-In-Class pontoons
year after year. So from our family to yours, welcome aboard.
B E N N I N G T O N 24 R BOWRIDER SWINGBACK
HIGH
POINTS
 Fiberglass
bowrider
C
changes
the game.
 Upholstery
colors, quality
stitching and
patterns make
Bennington
interiors
CERTIFIED first-rate.
 New Rockford
TEST
Fosgate sound
RESULTS system with
two separate
head units.
S E E THE
VIDEO
To see our video
review of the
24 R Bowrider
Swingback, scan
this tag or visit
boatingmag.com/
bbg20/bennington
24rbowrider.
Price: $140,894
SPECS: LOA: 26'6.5" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: N/A DRY WEIGHT: N/A SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: N/A FUEL CAPACITY: 58 gal.
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha F300 V-6 four-stroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series II 15.75" x 15" stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 44 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb.
O
nce in a while, a boat changes the through what is normally blocked; this SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
playing field. Take Bennington’s makes for easier docking, and also makes rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
24 R Bowrider Swingback. With it nicer for those aboard to interact with 1000 4.2 4.8 1.2 3.5 4.0 181.4 208.8 0 59
1500 6.1 7.0 1.9 3.2 3.7 167.1 192.3 0 63
a floor plan boasting a recessed bowrider those on the beach or sandbar. With that 2000 7.6 8.8 3.2 2.4 2.8 124.7 143.6 1 68
design called the Step-Down U-Lounge, it drop-center floor, one might wonder how 2500 13.7 15.8 4.6 3.0 3.4 155.8 179.3 1 74
3000 15.6 18.0 5.6 2.8 3.2 145.8 167.8 1 75
makes the mark. It doesn’t feel like a typi- they did that. The answer is in the center 3500 20.2 23.2 7.6 2.7 3.1 138.5 159.3 1 73
cal pontoon; it feels more luxurious and V-hull section, called the Integrated V-Hull 4000 23.5 27.1 10.2 2.3 2.7 120.5 138.7 1 76
4500 27.2 31.3 13.4 2.0 2.3 106.0 121.9 1 79
safer. The pilot and copilot can easily see Performance Package. This center pod is 5000 27.6 31.8 15.5 1.8 2.1 93.1 107.1 1 82
over the heads of crew seated forward. a custom-designed V-toon that adds lift, 5500 30.0 34.5 18.2 1.6 1.9 86.0 99.0 1 83
6000 34.5 39.7 24.0 1.4 1.7 75.0 86.3 1 84
Better command, confidence and control along with turning ability and stability, 6100 35.6 41.0 25.9 1.4 1.6 71.8 82.6 1 85
result. The forward perimeter fences fea- while also giving designers room to drop MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
ture lowered profile rails with see-through the foredeck. Ingenious all the way round. B E N N I N G T O N P O N T O O N B O AT S
upper sections. Seems simple, again, but Forward of the bow lounges, there’s Elkhart, Indiana; 888-906-2628; benningtonmarine.com
it allows the driver and passengers to see plenty of deck space to help with launch-
ing or docking. The lounges in the bow are beautifully stitched and plush.
feature Integrated Bench-Back Storage— Behind those, the aft section features
Bennington’s fancy way of saying that just a swingback-reversible wide-lounge
below the upper pillows, the couches em- platform, with stainless-steel perimeter
ploy a deeply recessed shelf that allows for fencing and a matching boarding ladder.
secure storage of items such as cellphones, Performance is solid; 42 mph was our
hats and sunglasses. Even the removable top end, with predictable and sure-footed
cocktail table is not typical; it’s a thick, handling in curves and over chop and roll-
wood-grained molded plastic that’s solid, ers. Best cruise was just under 16 mph at
securely mounted and looks great. 2,500 rpm, where the 300 Yamaha gave
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
The cockpit console is sleek and swept, back 3.4 miles per gallon. Acceleration
with a small, lipped Lexan windscreen. was quick and authoritative, with 30 mph
The Vantage Point captain’s chairs achieved in just 6.4 seconds.

B E N N I N G T O N 2 5 Q X FA S T B A C K
HIGH
POINTS
 Fastback stern
design works
C
with the bow
silhouette, adds
open, airy feel.
 Optional clad-
ded sport arch
includes elevat-
ed tow point for
watersports.
 Fiberglass- CERTIFIED
compound
TEST
radius bow
has storage RESULTS
compartments
within.
SEE T H E
VIDEO
To watch our

video review
of the 25 QX
Fastback, scan
this tag or visit
boatingmag.com/
bbg20/bennington
25qxfastback.
Price: $140,030 (with test power, Elliptical Sport Package)
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha 350 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series XL 161/4" x 15" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.73:1 FUEL LOAD: 45 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 360 lb.
I
n Bennington’s extensive array Add a swept-forward overhead arch, On the sizable swim platform, addi-
of floorplans, the letter Q desig- a Yamaha outboard color-matched to the tional cup holders, stereo and an oversize
nates luxury. While the 25 QX new-for-2020 Monaco Blue exterior, a stainless-steel boarding ladder await.
Fastback clearly fits the bill, the lasting blacked-out trio of top rail, pontoon skirt Our test boat had the ESP Perfor-
impression is more like waterborne power. and deck rail, and the 25 QX almost looks mance Package, one of the most dramatic
The molded fiberglass bow rakes sharply ready to rumble. pontoon configurations on the market.
toward the water. The interior’s clean graphite palette The central tube is a sizable 32 inches in
Fiberglass-clad rails are sharply perfectly complemented the blue exterior. diameter and elliptical in shape.
faceted and devoid of traditional fencing. Forward, twin wraparound benches line Flanked by 25-inch outer pontoons,
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
Spanning the twin consoles, a low-profile, both sides, converting into a full wrap- it produces handling similar to that of a
steeply raked walk-through windshield around bench if you add the removable V-hull. With our test motor, the craft pow-
is deeply tinted, adding an air of mystery. bow-gate seat. ered onto plane in 4.4 seconds, reached 30
At the stern, side panels finish in a mix of The graphite theme continues at the mph in 7.1, and topped out at nearly 48 mph.
bright stainless steel and wire mesh. helm, offset by complementary wood-grain
accents. Chrome-clad rocker switches are SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
arrayed across the bottom of the dash. rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
Above, an optional Simrad GO9 GPS touch- 1000 4.08 4.70 1.60 2.55 2.94 115 132 1 64
screen display eliminated any gauge clutter. 1500 6.00 6.90 2.70 2.22 2.56 100 115 2 67
2000 7.73 8.90 4.50 1.72 1.98 77 89 3 73
To port, a co-captain’s chair is perched 2500 14.08 16.20 5.40 2.61 3.00 117 135 2 71
behind the port console, the latter 3000 18.51 21.30 7.40 2.50 2.88 113 130 1 76
3500 21.64 24.90 9.60 2.25 2.59 101 117 2 77
featuring granite-like counter space and 4000 26.24 30.20 12.70 2.07 2.38 93 107 1 79
optional stainless-steel sink with a faucet. 4500 29.63 34.10 15.90 1.86 2.14 84 97 2 79
5000 33.37 38.40 19.00 1.76 2.02 79 91 2 82
Aft, Bennington’s Quad Bench mixes 5500 37.63 43.30 25.70 1.46 1.68 66 76 1 85
seating capacity with lounge space, fea- 6000 40.75 46.90 31.10 1.31 1.51 59 68 1 87
6100 41.45 47.70 32.30 1.28 1.48 58 66 1 89
turing twin couches that wrap toward a MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
central gate and forward-facing backrests
B E N N I N G T O N P O N T O O N B O AT S
should occupants want to stretch. Elkhart, Indiana; 888-906-2628; benningtonmarine.com

P L A Y C R A F T P O W E RT O O N X -T R E M E 2 7 0 0
HIGH
POINTS
 PlayCraft’s
C
exclusive pat-
ented boarding
steps are built
into the star-
board pontoon
for convenient
reboarding.
 The side gate is
ideal for wheel-
CERTIFIED chair boarding.
TEST  The large

sun pad
RESULTS adds comfort
and reduces
already quiet
engine noise.
S E E THE
VIDEO
To see our video

review of the
X-Treme 2700,
scan this tag or
visit boatingmag
.com/bbg20/play
craftxtreme2700.
Price: $149,000
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury Racing 450 hp supercharged DRIVE/PROPS: Bravo 20 FS 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.6:1 FUEL LOAD: 25 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 250 lb.
W
ith a top speed of nearly 65 mph, center tube adds passenger-carrying SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
you couldn’t ask for much more capacity. Lifting strakes—long, extruded rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
performance from a single-engine aluminum fins that resemble chines on 1000 4.6 5.3 1.4 3.3 3.8 88.8 102.2 1 69
1500 6.5 7.5 2.9 2.2 2.6 60.7 69.8 1 75
pontoon. PlayCraft’s PowerToon X-Treme the outside edge of the tubes—widen them, 2000 9.3 10.7 4.7 2.0 2.3 53.4 61.5 1 74
2700 makes this speed with triple powder- add lift, and serve to hold the boat tight in 2500 12.3 14.1 6.1 2.0 2.3 54.2 62.4 1 84
3000 16.9 19.5 8.2 2.1 2.4 55.8 64.2 1 84
coated tubes with a Mercury Racing 450 performance turns. 3500 21.7 25.0 10.6 2.0 2.4 55.3 63.7 1 85
hp outboard bolted to the center one. The Thanks to PlayCraft’s long experience 4000 30.6 35.2 12.8 2.4 2.8 64.5 74.3 1 90
4500 39.4 45.3 17.1 2.3 2.6 62.2 71.5 1 99
motor’s styling perfectly complements in building solid, U-shaped tubes and the 5000 45.1 51.9 26.6 1.7 2.0 45.8 52.7 1 102
PlayCraft’s well-practiced designers’ and generous use of crossmembers to join 5500 50.0 57.5 37.9 1.3 1.5 35.6 41.0 1 103
6000 53.4 61.5 38.5 1.4 1.6 37.4 43.1 1 104
upholsterers’ work to make the X-Treme the flat-topped tubes to one another, the 6200 55.6 64.0 40.0 1.4 1.6 37.5 43.2 1 105
look extremely fast just sitting at the dock. boat remains solid, rigid and comfortable MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
The center tube is longer than the at the highest speeds, in sharp turns and P L AY C R A F T B O A T S
outboard tubes, giving the boat a rakish on rough waters. And we should know, Richland, Missouri; 573-765-3265; playcraftboats.com
bow. The buoyancy of the X-Treme’s after testing these great boats on Lake of
the Ozarks for nearly 20 straight years. will look great for a long boating life.
With Mercury power, you get Smart On deck, seating is luxurious, and the
Craft instrumentation at the helm with ride, already smooth and soft, is turned to
fuel-management data outputs, power a magic-carpet feel with the thickly padded
steering, and super-smooth electronic seats. PlayCraft’s upholsterers are artists,
throttle and shift. practically quilting the seat covers of this
With PlayCraft construction, you get resilient, padded vinyl in cool racing colors,
the most exciting-looking pontoon on the with contrasting sewn-in flag graphics.
water. Checkered-flag paint is actually There’s lounge seating for more than a
paint, not stick-on graphics. Super-strong dozen passengers, plus a luxurious swivel
PHOTOS: ZACH STOVALL
side gates have swooping curves in the armchair with self-adjusting armrests for
rails to outline the flying-flag look. The a comfortable seat at the helm.
powder-coated rails, tubes and Bimini top Which is where you deserve to be.

Built with you in mind.
LS 818 XRE
Triple Tube
For optimum performance and safety, read the Owner’s Manual before operating
your Honda Marine Product. Always wear a personal flotation device while boating.
300 Woodside Drive • Saint Louis, Michigan 48880 • P: 989-681-4300

www.QwestPontoons.com
P R O U D LY M A D E I N T H E U S A
B A R L E T TA L25UC
HIGH
POINTS
 Standards
C
include power
Bimini top,
woven flooring,
raised helm
and multiple
USB ports.
 Premium Hertz
Marine stereo
with six speak-
CERTIFIED ers, subwoofer
and 1,500-watt
TEST amplifier.
RESULTS  Tube-Tow Wa-
tersports Cage
incorporates
fender storage.
S E E THE
VIDEO
To watch our
video review of
the L25UC, scan
this tag or visit
boatingmag.com/
bbg20/barletta
l25uc.
Price: $119,593
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 400 Verado DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 14.7" x 16" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 18 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 385 lb.
T
he L25UC is often referred to as and sculpts its curves for a streamlined SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
the “boat that started Barletta.” profi le. At the bow, top rails slope for not rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
As such, it’s a showcase for the only style, but also to give the captain a 1000 4.00 4.60 1.20 3.33 3.83 144 166 0 58
1500 5.56 6.40 1.70 3.27 3.76 141 163 0 63
builder’s best features. These include few more inches of forward visibility. 2000 7.82 9.00 2.50 3.13 3.60 135 156 2 65
not only amenities topside but also VIP Aft that, fencing disappears all together, 2500 12.51 14.40 3.60 3.48 4.00 150 173 2 68
3000 15.21 17.50 5.20 2.92 3.37 126 145 1 77
construction below, vibration-isolating opening up the back deck. Stainless-steel 3500 18.77 21.60 7.30 2.57 2.96 111 128 1 74
polyurethane rubber pads placed anywhere rails and stainless-steel tow bar rim the 4000 20.77 23.90 8.90 2.33 2.69 101 116 1 76
4500 26.33 30.30 11.50 2.29 2.63 99 114 1 77
aluminum meets aluminum to deaden exterior. Safety chains close off port and 5000 31.89 36.70 14.90 2.14 2.46 92 106 1 78
vibration and quiet the ride. It works. starboard openings, or clip out of the way 5500 36.24 41.70 19.40 1.87 2.15 81 93 1 79
6000 40.06 46.10 25.30 1.58 1.82 68 79 1 86
The L25UC felt solid and free of creaks for unencumbered access to and from 6300 42.49 48.90 34.30 1.24 1.43 54 62 1 89
and groans no matter what conditions we the water. MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
encountered or how hard we ran it. The L25UC combines a familiar B A R L E T TA P O N T O O N B O AT S

Barletta retains a pontoon’s tradi- pontoon layout forward with a modern Bristol, Indiana; 574-825-8900; barlettapontoonboats.com
tional exterior fencing but minimizes take aft. In the bow, parallel 6-foot lounge
seats invite passengers to socialize or just 6½-by-5-foot sun pad; or with the aft
stretch out. At the helm, an upscale wheel cushions kicked up on hinged stands,
features a leatherlike wrap; aircraft- fashion a forward-facing sun pad with
style toggles add a classy touch and twin reclined headrests.
analog-combo gauges keep tabs on speed Our test boat was paired with a Mercu-
and engine operation. Opposite the helm, ry 400 Verado outboard, a powerful motor
a co-captain’s chair awaits the first mate. that pushed the craft rapidly onto plane,
That leaves space for the Ultra Lounge past 30 mph in 7.8 seconds and topped
to bring up the rear. A forward-facing out at 48.9 mph while turning 6,300 rpm.
couch that backs up to a sun pad on the Below deck, a trio of 26-inch pontoons
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
back deck, the Ultra Lounge backrest can easily carried the load, offering stability
also pivot forward to create a rear-facing both at rest and underway, while banking
recliner; lower fully to form a generous smoothly into high-power turns at speed.

H A R R I S CROWNE 270 SL TE
HIGH
POINTS
 Medallion
Glass Dash
C
incorporates
engine data,
audio/lighting
control, GPS
navigation
and more.
 JL Zone
Control Stereo
includes head CERTIFIED
unit and Fusion
speakers. TEST
 Sport Arch RESULTS
lowers via
push button.
SEE T H E
VIDEO
To watch our

video review
of the Crowne
270 SL TE, scan
this tag or visit
boatingmag.com/
bbg20/harris
crowne270slte.
Price: $306,000
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Twin Mercury 400 Verado DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Revolution 4 145/8" x 21" 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 58 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 350 lb.
H
arris won a National Marine outer walls and its seat bases. The result is this stable craft onto plane in a mere
Manufacturers Association Inno- a boat that fits in at both the sandbar party 3.6 seconds, reaching 30 mph in less than
vation Award for its revolutionary and the yacht-club cocktail hour. 7 seconds more before topping out at
Crowne design in 2013. The fact that the Step through the stainless-steel bow 61.2 mph atop triple 27-inch pontoons
same basic styling still looks as cutting-edge gate, and parallel benches flank the walk- with strakes designed specifically for
today as it did seven years ago is a testament way. Harris angles the seat-bottom profile twin-engine performance.
to this pontoon builder’s forward-thinking to provide a more open, spacious feel, Our test boat’s standout feature, how-
approach, key to which is the replacement topping off the backrests with comfy pil- ever, was the optional Mercury Joystick
of the traditional pontoon fence enclosures low tops and accenting the lumbar region Piloting system. This intuitive control
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
with sleek, curvy fiberglass. Four fiberglass with diamond-pattern stitching. Finished allowed us to make child’s play of dock-
modules occupy the four corners of the deck stowage with drains is found below. ing, effortlessly maneuvering the Crowne
outline, the forward pair curving aggres- At the helm, the captain is greeted around a tight marina in the stiffest
sively toward the water. Those fiberglass with billet dash accents, a stainless-steel of crosswinds.
modules incorporate both the Crowne’s spoke wheel and an attractive vinyl wrap
with accent stitching. A central Medallion
Glass Dash touchscreen is standard issue; naut. stat. n. mi. s. mi. sound
a second touchscreen control to starboard 1000 5.39 6.20 2.80 1.92 2.21 109 126 0 67
replaces traditional switches. 1500 7.47 8.60 4.30 1.74 2.00 99 113 1 67
2000 14.25 16.40 6.20 2.30 2.65 130 150 1 76
On our test boat, both were comple-
2500 19.81 22.80 9.10 2.18 2.51 123 142 1 78
mented by an additional Simrad display. 3000 22.07 25.40 11.60 1.90 2.19 108 124 1 77
Aft, an L-shaped bench includes an 3500 24.94 28.70 16.50 1.51 1.74 86 99 1 79
4000 28.68 33.00 20.90 1.37 1.58 78 90 1 84
optional rear-facing lounger with a 4500 33.72 38.80 26.30 1.28 1.48 73 84 1 84
powered, flip-flop backrest. Its linear 5000 36.50 42.00 32.20 1.13 1.30 64 74 1 86
5500 45.53 52.40 49.90 0.91 1.05 52 60 1 87
actuated motor was nearly silent and 6000 53.18 61.20 67.60 0.79 0.91 45 51 1 87
allowed practically unlimited stages of MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
recline for forward- or aft-facing seating.

H A R R I S B O AT S
Twin Mercury 400 outboards pushed Fort Wayne, Indiana; 260-432-4555; harrisboats.com

H A R R I S SOLSTICE 250 SLEC
HIGH
POINTS
 For helm
C
service access,
Harris changes
the game;
a lift-up lid
allows for easy
servicing of any
gauges, wiring,
hoses, etc.
 CZone digital
CERTIFIED switching gives
TEST owners much
better digital
RESULTS control of all
accessories,
such as lights
and stereo.
S E E THE
VIDEO
To watch our
video review of
the 250 SLEC,
scan this tag or
visit boatingmag
.com/bbg20/
harris250slec.
Price: $125,000
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 350 hp Verado FourStroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia Eco 16" x 17" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 42 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb.
H
arris rarely fails to please, and tubes with lifting strakes, aluminum full- SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
2020 reveals more innovation. length keel and aluminum underdeck skin. rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
This Solstice 250 SLEC gives an Handling and tractability was smooth, 1000 4.3 5.0 1.3 3.3 3.8 192.5 221.5 1 59
1500 6.0 6.9 1.9 3.2 3.6 181.8 209.2 1 60
aggressive performance with a Mercury with stutter-free turns and solid feel 2000 8.3 9.6 3.1 2.7 3.1 155.0 178.4 2 62
350 Verado FourStroke outboard, topping over chop and wakes. Thanks to Harris’ 2500 12.8 14.7 4.0 3.2 3.7 183.9 211.7 1 70
3000 16.5 19.0 5.6 2.9 3.4 169.8 195.4 1 74
51 mph at 6,000 rpm. Acceleration is brisk, ¾-inch plywood deck with tongue-groove 3500 21.6 24.8 8.0 2.7 3.1 155.2 178.6 1 76
hitting 30 mph from a dead stop in 7.3 sec- construction and crossmembers every 4000 26.3 30.3 10.9 2.4 2.8 139.1 160.1 1 77
4500 30.4 35.0 13.6 2.2 2.6 128.8 148.2 1 78
onds. For best mileage, optimal rpm is 2,500, 16 inches on center, we felt no rattles. 5000 34.2 39.3 19.7 1.7 2.0 99.9 114.9 1 78
where we recorded 14.7 mph and 3.7 miles Topside, long twin lounges dominate 5500 39.3 45.2 25.0 1.6 1.8 90.5 104.1 1 82
6000 44.6 51.3 30.8 1.4 1.7 83.4 95.9 1 84
per gallon. (Though we might term 20 mph the bow and feature stitched and tufted
“cruising speed” because mileage is still two-tone, diamond-pleat upholstery, with
stellar.) That’s thrifty performance from a tuckaway cubbies fitted with dual cup HARRIS
Fort Wayne, Indiana; 260-432-4555; harrisboats.com
large high-performance engine, testament holders and USB and power ports. Plenty
to the Harris triple 25-inch-diameter of stowage resides within.
Amidships, the pilot sits atop an The tower is fitted with JL Audio speakers
adjustable seat, which proved cushy and and a small Bimini top that affords good
supportive, behind a console and dash sun protection for those in the cockpit.
that displays every function possible—yet The aft section features a huge lounger
it still appears clean and simple. with a six-position backrest for a variety
The hinged top is a wonderful of configurations. Aft perimeter fencing
innovation allowing great access behind keeps everyone safely inside at speed. The
the dash, and the CZone digital switching boarding ladder is another cool touch; it
allows for pinpoint control of all the boat’s deploys and retracts electrically. The in-
systems. (For example: The electrically vestment in this Harris ($125,000) will
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
operated EVO 2.0 tower cannot be low- provide many summers of great family
ered unless its control is actuated a special fun, and the features will keep even the
way, reducing the chance of an accident.) most tech-headed boat geek entertained.

GET ON BOARD
Hampton Pontoons are crafted with style, tradition and

innovation — making it the perfect boat for all occasions
H A MPTO NP OONNTOON
TOON S .C O M
A V A L O N 2 5 8 5 C ATA L I N A P L AT I N U M E L- W
C HIGH
POINTS
 Super-quiet
ride; no rattles
or bumps,
coupled with
CERTIFIED low engine
TEST noise from the
big Mercury
RESULTS FourStroke,
makes
moderate-level
conversation
easy even at
cruising speed.
 Ski tow and
boarding ladder
are beauti-
fully built and

aesthetically
pleasing as
functional
additions to
the aft deck.
 Deck layout
helps cre-
ate great
gatherings—all
together or in
three separate
Price: $114,169 groups.
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 300 FourStroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 14" x 19" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 43 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb.
W
e reached 45-plus mph top rush. Likewise, turns were sweeping, not SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
speeds while testing the 2585 sluggish or plowing. rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
Catalina Platinum EL-W and Avalon designed this platform for 1000 3.7 4.3 1.2 3.1 3.6 162.5 187.1 1 63
1500 5.3 6.1 1.9 2.8 3.2 145.6 167.6 1 65
zipped from a dead stop to planing in just family and group outings, and it works well 2000 7.5 8.6 3.0 2.5 2.9 130.0 149.6 2 67
under 5 seconds—it took a shade over in that capacity. This is a semi-enclosed 2500 11.6 13.3 3.7 3.1 3.6 163.1 187.6 2 68
3000 14.7 16.9 5.2 2.8 3.3 147.4 169.7 2 68
8 seconds for us to hit 30 mph. It’s a cruis- runabout-style pontoon, with hearty, 3500 18.2 20.9 7.1 2.6 2.9 133.5 153.7 1 70
er too; even with the big powerplant, we curved wraparound windscreens separat- 4000 21.5 24.7 9.9 2.2 2.5 113.2 130.2 1 73
4500 24.6 28.3 12.5 2.0 2.3 102.7 118.2 1 74
recorded best economy at a sedate 13 mph, ing the foredeck from the rest of the boat. 5000 28.2 32.4 17.6 1.6 1.8 83.5 96.1 1 75
where the Mercury outboard sips 3.7 gph, Up front, two long facing lounges com- 5500 33.4 38.4 21.0 1.6 1.8 82.9 95.5 1 77
5900 39.8 45.8 22.9 1.7 2.0 90.7 104.4 1 81
for a net economy of 3.6 miles per gallon. fortably seat at least three crewmembers
But even at faster speeds, it’s a fuel miser, on each side, creating a wonderful party
netting better than 2 mpg at a variety pit with plenty of room for everyone. The AVA L O N P O N T O O N B O A T S
Alma, Michigan; 800-334-2913; avalonpontoons.com
of speeds, as the chart shows. Jumping two-tone upholstered couches feature
on the throttle produced a satisfying recessed backrests and footwells to maxi-
mize interior space, yet the stowage with- a console featuring a countertop, sink and
in these remains capacious. stainless-steel fridge—all well-placed,
Behind the consoles, pilot and mate easily accessed and nicely engineered.
benefit from excellent wind protection Our tester had the optional arch with sun
and noise minimization. While the skip- shade—a definite plus in the hot sun.
per has an adjustable captain’s chair, the To play on the aft deck, a small door is
copilot sits on an inward-facing love seat accessed on the port side; out back there’s
designed for two riders. Behind this is ample room to prep for watersports
the aft party pit, which is outfitted with or just hang out and swim. A generous
a starboard-side L-shaped lounge that storage locker is nicely concealed behind
PHOTOS: BILL DOSTER
reaches from the back of the driver’s chair a fiberglass hatch. The transom engine
all the way around to the port side of the mounting, rigging, boarding ladder and
deck. The portside aft deck is serviced by ski tow are integrated and well-presented.

P L A Y C R A F T P O W E RT O O N X -T R E M E 3 0 0 0
HIGH
POINTS
 The
C
color-matched
cushion-topped
cooler is a stan-
dard PlayCraft
feature.
 PlayCraft’s pat-
ented boarding
steps, built into
the tube with
an extension CERTIFIED
ladder, reach
deep for easy TEST
boarding. RESULTS
 Two movable
cup holders are
standard.
SEE T H E
VIDEO

To see our video
review of the
X-Treme 3000,
scan this tag or
visit boatingmag
.com/bbg20/play
craftxtreme3000.
Price: $229,000
HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin Mercury Racing 450 hp V-8 supercharged DRIVE/PROPS: Bravo FS 24" 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.6:1 FUEL LOAD: 25 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb.
T
hirty years ago, PlayCraft Boats hydrodynamics. A nod to aerodynamics the armrests automatically adjust to the
founder Jim Dorris looked at the appears in the wedge-shaped bow and correct, comfortable angle.
popularity of go-fast boats on sleek Bimini top. One of the originators of Three boarding options include the
Lake of the Ozarks and asked: Why can’t we pontoon lifting strakes, PlayCraft employs wide bow deck, a wheelchair-width portside
retain the leisure and social atmosphere of them on three tubes to get on top of the wa- gate and the stern platform. An extra-long
a pontoon boat while building it to power ter, reducing drag and increasing speed, all boarding ladder integrated into the pontoon
comfortably and easily accelerate to 70 while retaining the soft ride of a pontoon. is patented and exclusive to PlayCraft.
mph? That idea is perfectly accomplished Powered by dual Mercury Racing 400 Blending the extremes of luxury and
in the PowerToon X-Treme 3000. outboards, our test boat popped us up on high-speed performance in many pon-
PHOTOS: ZACH STOVALL
Our recent test of the X-Treme 3000 on top and cruising at 30 mph in 5.2 seconds. toons often results in little satisfaction in
Lake of the Ozarks shatters old notions of Thanks to the electronic throttles and luxury or performance.
pontoon boating before even firing the out- power steering, the triple-tube PowerToon Yet PlayCraft nailed it with the
boards. Designing a boat for speed man- banked comfortably into tight turns, held PowerToon X-Treme 3000. Again.
dates considering aerodynamics as well as its line at speeds in excess of 40 mph, and
accomplished it effortlessly.
In the comfort department, furnishings naut. stat. n. mi. s. mi. sound
on board are upholstered from the deck 1000 3.0 3.5 1.1 2.8 3.2 248.8 286.4 NA 59
to the shoulder cushions in UV-protected 1500 5.4 6.3 1.7 3.2 3.7 287.5 330.9 NA 69
2000 8.2 9.5 3.1 2.6 3.0 238.4 274.4 NA 72
vinyl. Color combinations are virtually un-
2500 20.2 23.2 8.2 2.5 2.8 221.3 254.6 NA 74
limited, and owners can even match them 3000 25.7 29.6 10.0 2.6 3.0 231.5 266.4 NA 77
to their favorite football teams. Exterior 3500 28.9 33.3 10.6 2.7 3.1 245.3 282.3 NA 78
4000 39.1 45.0 16.7 2.3 2.7 210.7 242.5 NA 83
colors are offered in a broad spectrum too. 4500 46.9 54.0 21.6 2.2 2.5 195.5 225.0 NA 86
Color-matched powder-coated tubes and 5000 51.5 59.3 26.8 1.9 2.2 173.0 199.1 NA 90
5500 56.0 64.5 33.7 1.7 1.9 149.7 172.3 NA 92
rails make for durable good looks. 6000 63.5 73.1 48.7 1.3 1.5 117.4 135.1 NA 98
The fiberglass-molded helm station is 6300 67.9 78.1 52.0 1.3 1.5 117.5 135.2 NA 101
raised, giving a clear view above the crew.
P L AY C R A F T B O A T S
The captain’s chair swivels and reclines; Richland, Missouri; 573-765-3265; playcraftboats.com

Q W E S T LS 818 XRE CRUISE
HIGH
S
POINTS
 Rear fish
station includes
two rod
holders and
an 11-gallon
livewell, so
you can wet a
BUYERS line any time
the mood
SPOTLIGHT
strikes you.
 A long list
of standard
features means
there are tons
of amenities for
a pontoon of
this size.
 Standard
Infinity PRV
315 Bluetooth
stereo system
with four
speakers lets
you blast your
tunes from
your phone.
 Five-step alu-
minum reentry
ladder makes
for super-easy
reboarding
Price: $28,338 (with Honda BF40) after a swim.
SPECS: LOA: 19'2" BEAM: 8'0" DRAFT (MAX): 3'0" DRY WEIGHT: 1,500 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 8/1,900 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 17.5 gal.
W
ith its LS 818 XRE Cruise, Qwest is known for constructing all of
Qwest packs a lot of punch into a its seat bases out of Dura-Lite composite
smaller-size pontoon. Start with rather than the standard roto-molded
the boat’s layout. It’s great to see a pon- plastic bases found on comparable pon-
toon under 20 feet provide three boarding toons. The Dura-Lite bases are lighter
gates—one at the bow, one in the forward and easier to vent, making your stowed
seating area through the portside rail, and gear less likely to attract mildew. The lux-
one along the aft platform. There’s seating ury woven vinyl flooring is diamond sea
for four people in the bow, with a corner grass—besides looking sharp, it’s sturdy,
bench seat and a couch in front of the helm. easy to clean and comfortable underfoot.
There’s an L-shaped bench to port of the The long standard-amenities list means
helm and twin swiveling anglers bucket you can buy this easily trailered pontoon QWEST PONTOONS
St. Louis, Michigan; 989-681-4000; qwestpontoons.com
seats aft. It’s a great layout for cruising, good-to-go off the showroom floor.
fishing and watersports. The standard package for the LS 818
XRE Cruise is with twin 24-inch pon- truck to tow it to your local waters.
toons and a built-in 17-gallon gas tank If you like to fish, Qwest has got you
that flows fuel to a max 75 hp outboard. covered beyond the twin swiveling cap-
Upgrading to the triple-tube package ups tain’s chairs aft. The standard rear fishing
the maximum horsepower to 115, the fuel station features an 11-gallon livewell and
capacity to 45 gallons, and lets you add two rod holders. Serious about your an-
two more people to the party, with a max gling? You can add wiring for a trolling
PHOTOS: COURTESY QWEST PONTOONS
capacity of 10 people. Throw in the ski- motor at the bow. (Qwest’s parent com-
tow bar to enjoy some tow sports. Adding pany, Apex Marine, also makes a line of
the third tube ups the approximate dry dedicated fishing pontoons called Angler-
weight from 1,500 to 1,800 pounds, which Qwest.) When you’re not fishing, the
still fits into many midsize SUV tow rat- insulated livewell doubles as a cooler, so
ings, so you won’t need the world’s biggest your crew can have refreshments at hand.

For Tahoe Pontoons, high quality isn’t just a commitment
to creating the nest built pontoon boats on the market.
It means an even bigger commitment to high quality family time.
For over 40 years, Tahoe has been offering pontoon boats that create family memories.
Choose from award winning Luxury cruisers, water shredding Waveglider™
performance models, or affordable family models in every possible interior layout.
TAHOE PONTOON BOATS

903 Michigan Ave | Alma, MI 48801 | 800.334.2913 | www.tahoepontoons.com
G 3 S U N C AT C H E R E L I T E 3 2 6 S L
S HIGH
POINTS
 Twin high-back
captain’s chairs
provide plush
comfort for the
BUYERS captain and
SPOTLIGHT co-captain, and
swivel so both
can join the
conversation
when the boat
is at rest.
 The versatile
stern lounge
seats can be
adjusted to
face forward
or aft, or con-
verted into a
full sun lounge.
 The twin op-
posing couches
in the bow
both feature
forward-facing
backrests so
crewmembers
can kick back
and lounge
Price: $82,913 up front.
LOA: 25'5" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 3'0" DRY WEIGHT: 3,320 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 14/2,800 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 38 gal.
W
ith a 14-person capacity and backrests. The portside couch features a
plenty of seating to fit that many pullout privacy curtain.
people, the G3 SunCatcher Elite The creature comforts extend to the
326 SL is a pontoon boat that delivers on middle of the boat, where the captain
style, performance and entertainment. and the copilot can enjoy the high-back
Its plush furniture is designed to hold swiveling chairs with flip-up armrests.
plenty of gear in the dry-as-a-bone The SunCatcher’s sporty helm console
roto-molded seat bases underneath. features a standard Simrad G07 touch-
In the bow area, the opposing couches screen navigation unit. It’s pre-loaded
create a fantastic conversation pit, es- with maps and charts of inland lakes
pecially when you add in the pedestal and coastal waters, and also features
table. If two crewmembers would rather DownScan sonar for fishing. S U N C AT C H E R P O N T O O N S BY G 3 B O AT S
Lebanon, Missouri; 800-588-9787; suncatcherpontoon.com
stretch out and catch some rays and/or Perhaps most notable about this
z’s, both couches feature forward-facing luxurious SunCatcher is its stern lounge,
where the designation “SL” comes from. triple-tube configuration features two
The versatile seating arrangement fea- 23-inch-diameter outer logs and one
tures an easily adjustable backrest that 25-inch-diameter center tube to help it
can be angled to face forward or aft, or lean into turns and achieve V-hull-like
even fully reclined to create a plush sun turning characteristics. The SeaStar
lounge. It’s a great spot to sit and relax, standard power steering helps make
prep for watersports, or work on your turning and handling a smooth operation.
summer tan. The combination of power, perfor-
This pontoon is not just a mere mance and luxury accommodations
PHOTOS: COURTESY G3 BOATS
party platform. When powered with a makes the G3 SunCatcher Elite 326
Yamaha V Max 250 SHO outboard, it is SL the type of pontoon that you’ll find
capable of attaining speeds in the mid- a reason to be aboard every possible
40s while burning just under 2 mpg. The chance you get.

LO O KI NG TO G ET STARTED ON T HE
WAT ER? OUR M AN SHOW S YOU TH E
PATH TO B OATI NG W I SDOM.
HOW TO BUILD A
BETTER BOATER BY SH AWN B EA N PH OTOS BY JO N WHI TT LE
There I was, failing, at work, about work.

The quiz at the end of Module 2 of the US Power
Squadrons boating course was not going well. I had
incorrectly identified the location of the hull identifi-
cation number (on the starboard-side of the transom),
what it means when the top of a junction buoy is green
(the preferred channel is to starboard), and the re-
quired navigation lights for a sailboat under power
(stern light and side lights). Missing three out of the
10 quiz questions prompted a pop-up window on my
computer screen: I had to start the module over again.
Hanging above my desk, taunting me, was a recent
cover of Boating, which I had reviewed and approved.

A
As editorial director of Bon-
nier’s marine, fishing, aviation
and travel titles, I oversee the
content of a dozen brands,
including Boating, Yachting,
Salt Water Sportsman, Sport
“
Fishing and Marlin, titles
where boats are integral. Ex-
hibit A: In a recent issue of
Salt Water Sportsman, more
than 60 percent of the pages
feature a boat in the photo or
illustration, and 92 percent of
the pages reference boats in
some capacity. And here I am, Maryland, and while the Old Kevin Falvey about where to
in meetings and on confer- Line State touches the water, begin. He referred me to the
ence calls, trying to cover my I rarely did. Sure, there were aforementioned US Power
aft from being exposed as a periodic road trips to Ocean IT’S ONE Squadrons boating course:
first-class googan.
So, I decided to become a
City and occasional outings
on the Severn River, but that’s
THING TO a 287-page manual covering
236 individual topics, a six-
boater, as much for the pro- about it. INTERPRET A part online course (getting
Last fall I started my jour- started, navigation rules, gov-
NAVIGATIONAL
fessional upside as to take
advantage of living in Florida, ney into boatdom, leveraging ernment regulations, finding
where not being able to boat
is like living at Pebble Beach
all the resources my marine-
centric company had to offer. I
MARKER FROM your way, communications,
watersports safety, trailering
with a 60 handicap. couldn’t have asked for a better A DESK CHAIR. and PWC operation) and a
Boats weren’t a part of my
youth. I grew up in western
place to start. I’m Matt Damon
in Good Will Hunting: a janitor IT’S ANOTHER 50-question final exam. It
took me approximately two
TO DO SO IN months to complete.
The education was in-
THE GLARING depth and extremely detailed,
LIGHT OF DAY, and left me wondering how
many people on the water
WITH VESSELS could really speak intelligent-
ly about those 287 topics. Did
MOVING most boaters know that all vis-
IN EVERY ible mud, plants and animals
should be removed from the
DIRECTION, boat and trailer before leaving
the ramp to avoid the spread
AT 20 MPH. of nonnative fish, quagga mus-
sels and zebra mussels? Or
imbedded at Harvard, except that five short blasts from the
without all that burdensome stand-on boat means do not
genius, charm or hair. pass or overtake? Could they
navigate the tricky quiz ques-
MILE MARKER 1: tion in Module 6 that asked if
HIT THE BOOKS I consulted a spring line is a line used in
with Boating editor-in-chief March, April and May?

Nevertheless, my intent boater who keeps his express
was to do the homework like cruiser in the marina outside
a good student. But even his window in Pensacola.
with the knowledge acquired Could he could give me some
over those two months, my on-the-water instruction? He
boating experience was still replied quickly, eager to help.
all theoretical. It’s one thing “Great. Can we pick a date
to interpret a navigational for next month?” I asked.
marker from a desk chair. It’s Dave very matter-of-factly
another to do so in the glar- informed me that we’d have
ing light of day, with vessels to pick a date just a few days
moving in every direction, at out to account for weather.
20 mph. Six modules later, I’m Of course you can’t pick a day
the geeky sports writer who next month, no more than who took his first solo ride at parking lot for Randy to arrive,
can wax poetic about pitch- can I predict what mood my age 11 on a 15-foot Starcraft on I ate a banana. Then it hit me:
count strategy but couldn’t 4-year-old niece will be in a Lake of the Ozarks, and author Bananas are perceived as bad
throw a four-seam fastball to month from now. My four- of Power Boating for Dummies, luck on boats, and technically
save his life. seam fastball just dribbled part of the blockbuster book there will be a banana on the
into the dugout. series with the crime-scene- boat. I opted not to tell Randy.
MILE MARKER 2: Traveling 458 miles to tape color scheme. With the boat ramp still in
BAY BOAT UNIVERSITY Pensacola on three days’ notice On a bluebird Friday in ear- sight, Randy let me take the
I needed seat time. After all, seemed unlikely, so I reached ly January, Randy took me out wheel knob. He guided me
a boater who doesn’t boat is out to Randy Vance, editor- onto the Intracoastal Water- through gripping the throttle
just a guy with a US Power at-large for Bonnier’s marine way near New Smyrna Beach handle (“let it settle between
Squadrons certificate of com- and fishing titles, as well as the aboard his Ranger 2510 Bay your thumb and forefinger
pletion over his desk. I pinged face of Boating’s video boat- powered by a 350 hp Mercury like a pool cue”), taking wakes
my friend Dave, a lifelong test franchise, a lifelong boater Verado. While waiting in the (“hit it at a 45-degree angle”)

“
I WAVED TO
THE OTHER
CAPTAINS.
IT WAS A
MOVE I HAD
COVETED FOR
YEARS—THE
COMMUNAL
GESTURE
SHARED
BETWEEN
MARINERS.
and docking (“the slower you Xplor near Cape Canaveral.

go, the slower you crash”). Mark navigated the skiff
While cruising the ICW, Randy through a very skinny chan-
posted a video of our excur- nel, then directed me to the
sion on Facebook, noting that helm and clipped the kill
I was learning to boat. “Wel- switch to my belt.
come, my son. By now this The Indian River Lagoon
will have taken over your life,” had the depth finder dancing:
read one of the comments. 9 feet, 3 feet, 7 feet, 2 feet. Cr-
ab-trap buoys and oyster bars
MILE MARKER 3: peppered our path, making it MILE MARKER 4: ing gears, throttle control,
SKIFF COLLEGE A few clear that the water is under TRAINING ON BISCAYNE docking and station holding.
weeks later, my classroom no obligation to cooperate. BAY Randy forwards me an Four weeks later, I’m at Pier 1
is a skiff belonging to Mark For auto drivers, the routes email: BoatU.S. Foundation of the Miami Marine Stadium,
MacKenzie, a lifelong boater have been paved, organized, is offering an on-the-water on Virginia Key, being greeted
(notice a theme here?), for- connected and marked with training course at the Miami by Capt. Jim Jurgens, a life-
mer sternman on a lobster signs the size of a stadium vid- International Boat Show. The long boater (yes, I know you
boat in Maine, and digital eo screen. Out here, one must three-hour tutorial provides know) who grew up on Lake
content director at Bonnier. rely on alertness, awareness students instruction on pre- Superior. He’s also a member
We launched his 18-foot and local knowledge. departure preparation, shift- of the Freedom Boat Club,

a boat-sharing service that
provides an alternative to
boat ownership.
We boarded a Cobia 220
CC powered by a Yamaha 250,
went through the pre-depar-
ture checklist, and headed
out onto Biscayne Bay. On the
menu: pivot turns, backing up,
taking wakes, and docking at a
concrete platform in the shad-
ow of Brickell Avenue’s high-
rises. The only people nearby
were a couple of models vamp-
ing for a photographer, so
they were paying attention to
themselves, not the guy ding-
ing the stern into the piling.
For three glorious hours
I ran the Cobia through the
moderate Biscayne Bay chop These questions are from the “Getting Started” section of the
and along the Intracoastal US Power Squadrons boating course. See if you get them all right.
THE CAPTAIN’S SIX-PACK
Waterway as pontoons, cata-

marans, police boats and party 1. What do the letters PASS mean 4. How many portable fire
barges passed by. I grew com- when used to describe the operation extinguishers are required aboard
fortable at the helm and with of a fire extinguisher? an 18-foot powerboat with in-
the boat’s feel. I waved to the A. Pull the pin, aim at the top of the stalled fuel tanks but with no fixed
other captains. It was a move
fire, squeeze the handle, and spray fire-suppression system?
I had coveted for years—the
with short bursts so as to conserve A. None
communal gesture shared be-
tween mariners. I went 2-for-4 the extinguishing agent. B. One
on waves, although I’m pretty B. Pull the pin, aim at the base of C. Two
sure one of them didn’t see me. the fire, squeeze the handle for short D. Three
Even though my ongoing bursts, and spray at the top of the fire.
boating education is powered C. Pull the safety pin, aim at the base 5. What is the next step after running
by the top marine and fishing of the fire, squeeze the handle, and the engine-compartment blower for
magazines, that power is actu- sweep the extinguisher side to side at least four minutes, and before
ally available to all greenhorns. while aiming at the base of the fire. starting the inboard gasoline engine?
The US Power Squadrons D. Pull the pin, aim at the base of the A. Close all engine-compartment
course is $35. Power Boating
fire, squeeze the handle, and spray at vents before starting the engine.
for Dummies is available for
the edge of the fire. B. Open the compartment cover and
$15 on Amazon. An issue of
Boating is $5. The BoatU.S. sniff for traces of gasoline fumes.
on-the-water training course 2. What condition renders a life jacket C. Grab a VHF radio in case a distress
is $150. Locations encompass unserviceable? call must be made.
such places as Wickford, A. It is discolored but still airtight. D. Turn off the blower for at least one
Rhode Island; Lake Lewisville, B. It has a torn strap. minute before starting the engine.
Texas; and Los Angeles. C. It has been immersed in salt
I emailed the Freedom water. 6. Which category of life jacket is
Boat Club to inquire about D. It has been stained with oil. designed to turn an unconscious
membership. An hour later, person face up in the water?
Jane Osbourne, membership
3. What is an advantage of A. Offshore/Type I
director of its Space Coast
pistol-fired red meteor aerial flares B. Nearshore/Type II
outpost, sent me the details
and fee information for over handheld red flares? C. Flotation Aid/Type III
membership. An hour later, A. Burn longer D. Special Use Devices/Type V
I responded with questions. B. Burn in a pulsing SOS mode
There I was, negotiating, C. Are visible for a longer distance Answers:
1. C. 2. B. 3. C. 4. B. 5. B. 6. A.
at work, about work. D. Are suitable only for daylight use

ARE YOU
IN GOOD
HANDS? TWELVE BOAT-INSURANCE
DETAILS YOU NEVER
THOUGHT TO ASK ABOUT
A
BY KEVIN FALVEY ILLUSTRATIONS BY TIM BOWER
s an experienced boater, you probably know a thing or two
about boat-insurance policies. For instance, when buying boat
insurance, you’d likely ask whether the policy pays the agreed
value or the actual cash value of the boat. Also, you might know
about a trend similar to auto insurance in which boat insurers now offer
24/7 on-water and on-road towing services—but these might not be right for
every boater. You probably know these things and more.
But how can you know what you don’t know?
We asked BoatU.S., one of the largest recreational marine insurers, for
a list of uncommon boat-insurance-policy waivers and riders not typically
included in basic policies. These items might add cost to your insurance, but
they also might save the day if you ever need them. We’re not saying you need
them, nor do we assert that this is a complete list. We simply want to arm you
with knowledge of what to ask for when buying boat insurance.

L
TOTAL-SALVAGE COVERAGE
et’s say a storm deposits your boat
in a marsh hundreds of yards from
WE ALL KNOW THE STORIES—SOME
a road or the water (which happens
to many boats during named storms,
MAY HAVE EXPERIENCED IT
according to BoatU.S.). Since equipment FIRSTHAND—OF TORN STERNDRIVE
can neither be driven nor floated over to
the boat, and because of environmental BELLOWS OR BROKEN THROUGH-HULL
regulations, retrieving the boat, which
might be basically unharmed, can cost FITTINGS CAUSING BOATS TO SINK.
tens of thousands of dollars. Consider this
coverage even if you want to purchase a
basic liability policy to simply meet the value, in essence making the boater pay for fuel or oil leaks as a result. However it hap-
requirements of your marina and have more salvage costs out of pocket. pens, environmental-damage assessments
no interest in insuring the value of your levied for fuel spills can range to almost
F
boat—this is also a consideration for FUEL-SPILL COVERAGE $1 million, and the cost of cleanup may
boaters in hurricane-prone areas. BoatU.S. ederal law makes boaters be charged as well—a fee that may dwarf
recommends salvage-coverage dollar responsible for fuel spilled for the fine. Fuel-spill coverage should be
limits that are separate from your hull any reason. It could be that oil in considered even if seeking a basic liability
coverage but equal to it. That’s because the bilge from a sloppy oil change gets policy, but it can be better to have separate
some companies limit salvage coverage discharged when your bilge pump kicks coverage because it will likely cover more.
to a small percentage of the policy’s hull on, or maybe the boat sinks in the slip, and Fuel-spill coverage is a consideration
DON’T BE
COMPLETELY
SUNK
Boating creates boating
maintenance and DIY content
in large part to help prevent
the events that require
consequential-damage
coverage.
CONSEQUENTIAL-DAMAGE COVERAGE
Tragedies such as a sinking often happen due to some small part Coverage for consequential damage that results in a sinking or
failing. We all know the stories—some may have experienced other big tragedy is something you want to ask about. Note that
it firsthand—of torn sterndrive bellows or broken through- some insurance companies’ consequential-damage coverage
hull fittings causing boats to sink. Some policies, while they applies only to total losses, so ask about that. Other examples of
cover the sinking, will exclude coverage if it happens as a result consequential-damage situations include dismasting, collision,
of consequential damage such as a failed bellows or seacock. stranding, fire and explosion.

KEEPING
YOUR HEALTH
AFLOAT
Watersports and offshore-
fishing coverage is common,
though scuba diving is an activity
excluded by most boat-insurance
companies. (Get it through the
Professional Association
of Diving Instructors.)
MEDICAL-PAYMENTS COVERAGE
Medical-payments coverage provides for out-of-pocket expenses this coverage at $1,000, but some offer higher limits for a higher
not covered by the injured person’s health insurance—things premium. Medical-payments coverage might best warrant the
such as copayments and deductibles. It provides a per-person attention of boaters active in watersports, such as water-skiing
limit of coverage for any injury that occurs aboard the insured and wakeboarding, as well as offshore fishing and other boating
boat, regardless of liability. Many insurers cap the payout of activities wherein injuries might more likely occur.
O
for all boaters whose vessels have fuel HURRICANE HAUL-OUT COVERAGE in the article. In a nutshell, this coverage
tanks, but those who boat near sensitive K, this one is pretty much a pays a portion of the costs to have the
ecosystems such as coral reefs, oyster well-known must for boaters boat hauled, prepared and secured or
beds and wetlands might want to give in hurricane country who keep tied down by professionals, or moved by
fuel-spill coverage an even closer look. their boats in the water, but for those a licensed captain. As an example, the
boaters moving to the coast from inland BoatU.S. Marine Insurance Program pays
T
UNINSURED BOATER areas, or new boaters, we’re including it 50 percent of the cost of labor up to $1,000
his boat-insurance coverage likely
sounds familiar to boaters with
FUEL-SPILL COVERAGE SHOULD BE

automobile insurance because
it is similar to the uninsured-motorist
coverage some auto drivers purchase. For
the uninitiated, this provides additional CONSIDERED EVEN IF SEEKING A BASIC
coverage for bodily injuries aboard your
boat caused by a collision with a hit-
LIABILITY POLICY—SO ASK ABOUT
and-run boater, where the other boater
either takes off without being caught or is
IT—BUT IT CAN BE BETTER TO HAVE
operating without insurance, as the name SEPARATE COVERAGE BECAUSE IT WILL
implies. Note that many boats and boaters
are uninsured because boat insurance is LIKELY COVER MORE.
not required in most places.

to have the boat hauled or moved, or, if
you are out of town, have a professional
prepare your boat, and the haul-out does WHAT A PARTIAL-LOSS DEPRECIATION
not penalize the policyholder. Before
purchasing this coverage, we recommend
WAIVER DOES, IF YOU ADD IT ON, IS
asking boat haulers for an estimate of the
cost of a hurricane haul-out as described
ESSENTIALLY STOP THE CLOCK AND
above. That way, you will be in a better CONTINUE TO PAY NEW-FOR-OLD
CLAIM RATES ON THESE ITEMS.
position to know whether you want it.
I
BOAT-TRAILER COVERAGE
f you were to get into an accident
while trailering your boat, your boat boaters. Also, be sure to find out if there are coverage and decide whether it is for
policy might pay for any loss-related any geographical limits to the coverage. you. You see, many insurers depreciate
repairs to the trailer (check—it is often major items such as canvas, engines,
separate coverage and not included), but PARTIAL-LOSS generators and sails at a steep rate after two
I
any damage caused by the trailer to other DEPRECIATION WAIVER years. That means as your boat ages, the
people or property would be up to your f you are a boater who owns an older “new-for-old” financial-advantage benefit
tow-vehicle insurance to cover. Naturally, boat, one that is, say, 15 or 20 years of some insurance coverage is lost. What a
this coverage is best considered by trailer old, you’ll want to know about this partial-loss depreciation waiver does, if you
CRUISING-
EXTENSION COVERAGE
Maybe you are a California boater who likes to
cruise into Mexican waters. Or perhaps you are GO AHEAD,
from Florida and like to visit the Bahamas. Your CROSS
boat insurance probably does not cover you in THAT LINE
these areas unless you procure cruising-extension
coverage. Typically, you purchase this coverage by We encourage you to cruise
calling your insurer prior to each trip. However, your boat over as many far
some companies offer upfront approval for certain horizons as possible. Just be
aware that your insurance
cruising destinations, which can eliminate the need
might not go along for
to call and order the coverage every time you cruise.
the ride.
Also note that coverage might not be available for
cruising to some countries, such as Cuba, Haiti
and Venezuela.

add it on, is essentially stop the clock and
continue to pay new-for-old claim rates on DON’T BE
these items. A TOTAL
LOSER
DINGHY/MARINE Competitive fishing can cost a
I
ELECTRONICS ENDORSEMENT lot of money in entry fees, and
nsurance policies for expensive vessels requires liability insurance
often carry high deductibles. If the and the necessary tackle. An
boater has separate coverage for the angling endorsement is for
dinghy and electronics, the decision to file such anglers.
a claim for a lost dinghy or stolen marine
electronics can be easier to make. Some
might think this is just for large boats, but
we can say that, as a result of testing so
many new boats, many boats as small as 23
or 25 feet are often equipped with $15,000
in electronics. If you cruise far and wide
or boat in an area where crime is high, you
might want to think about purchasing a
dinghy or marine electronics endorsement.
L
WATERSPORTS COVERAGE
ike an angling endorsement,
expensive equipment is provided
with higher-limit coverage, and
entry fees into tournaments might be
reimbursed if you must miss out for a
covered reason. This coverage can be
bundled, as BoatU.S. does, combining
actual cash value for boards, skis, and
scuba and snorkel gear with increased
medical-payments coverage and entry-
fee reimbursement for competitive ANGLER COVERAGE
wakeboarders or water-skiers. If you own lots of expensive fishing gear and/or you fish competitively in tournaments,
If you can afford to own a boat, you give an angling endorsement a look. It is often offered as a bundle of fishing-gear coverage,
probably know all too well that insurance tournament-entry-fee reimbursement and tournament liability coverage. For the gear,
companies are not in business to pay higher limits are placed than on policies without the angling endorsement. Also, should
claims—they make money collecting a claim—such as for an on-the-road accident or a stolen boat—cause you to have to with-
premiums. That said, make sure your draw from a tournament, this coverage will reimburse your entry fee. Ask if your insurer
boat-insurance needs meet your financial caps this amount; some insurers might do so. As a side note, it’s important to understand
requirements as well as your tolerance for that many fishing tournaments will require you to carry $500,000 in liability coverage as
risk. Questioning the coverage proposed an entered angler.
to you is smart shopping. Hopefully, this
article helps you do just that.
THREE TYPES OF INSURANCE POLICIES

The coverages listed prior are often optional. Before you even begin to select them, you must choose from
one of three basic policy types listed here.
AGREED HULL VALUE: An agreed hull ACTUAL CASH VALUE: This differs from LIABILITY ONLY: This policy pays for the
value policy is the most common one, agreed hull value in that if the boat is a total damage caused to others, including bodily
and with this policy you and your insurer loss, it pays out based on the market value injury (people) and property. It does not
agree to the value to be paid on the of the boat at the time, and may have more cover the insured boater’s boat. Better
vessel in the event of a total loss. Boaters depreciation on partial losses. These cost liability policies include oil-spill and full-
of all types might like an agreed hull less and appeal to frugal boaters or boaters salvage coverage. Not concerned with
value policy. willing to shoulder more cost in a loss. hull-value coverage? Select liability only.

E
ELECTRONICS
By Jim Hendricks
Ask KEN
Q&A
the bottom of the iPhone. The
female HDMI port connects to
the end of the HDMI cable. The
adapter also has a spare Light-
ning port so you can charge
your iPhone while watching HOW CAN I
video. For Android devices, you PROTECT MY
can connect using a micro-USB ELECTRONICS
male-to-HDMI female adapter AGAINST THEFT?
($9.98, walmart.com).
Remove costly electronics
The next step is to select the and other items from the
video window on the MFD
GAME (you might have to choose the
HDMI input in the menu), then
boat when not on board.
DuraSafe’s E-Locks ($34.95,
durasafelocks.com) can be
ON! watch streaming video from

your phone via apps such as
used to safely secure elec-
tronics to their gimbal or yoke
mounting brackets.
As my buddy and I listened to a football game on YouTube. For live sports, you Mounting electronics inside
will need an app such as Fox a locked enclosure secures
the boat stereo last fall, it occurred to us that we the equipment and keeps it
Sports Go, and you might have
might find a way to watch the game on my 12-inch to input your username and
out of sight.
multifunction display. The next day, I researched Flush-mounted electronics
password for your TV provider are more difficult to remove.
the details and discovered it’s pretty simple to to access the programming. You can also use aircraft-type
stream video to your MFD from a mobile phone. In my case, I stream the double nuts that take two
people and more effort and
audio via Bluetooth through
time for thieves to unfasten,
A key is having an HDMI I was able to plug a 4-foot the boat’s multispeaker stereo, or use hardware that requires
input port on your MFD—the male-to-male HDMI cable into but MFDs connected to the special tools to remove.
same port found on the back a Lowrance HDS-12 Live. But onboard sound systems can Security-alarm systems
of today’s televisions and in order to connect the other stream the audio without using for boats can be the most
effective theft deterrent.
monitors. You’ll find such ports end of the cable to my iPhone, the Bluetooth function. These can range from a
on advanced displays from I needed a special interface—a All of this assumes you have simple door sensor and siren
Garmin, Lowrance and Simrad. Lightning digital AV adapter stable cell service. Otherwise, alarm to a more sophisticat-
Furuno offers an HDMI input ($12.89, walmart.com). you might have to access a ed system that calls your
cellphone when an intrusion
port on the black-box module This plugs into the little satellite TV service, but that’s
or other incident occurs.
for its TZTouch displays. Lightning charging port at another story.
SHUTTERSTOCK (BASEBALL SCENE), CRAIG HASHIMOTO, COURTESY DOCKMATE
Systems with live-video
cameras can show you what PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY GARMIN, COURTESY APPLE,
is going on in and around

your boat. Boat-alarm
Joysticks are ubiquitous, but sideways to bring it up hard against systems range from $219
wirelessly controlled joysticks are the pier. And you can stand anywhere to more than $9,000. Many
unicorns. Dockmate is one of two— to use Dockmate, so your view is boat-alarm systems qualify
and the most recently available—in mostly unobstructed. For precise for an insurance discount of
the USA. The system connects in control, the installer can adjust typically 10 percent. A list
relatively simple fashion to your the throttle and rate of steering of boat-alarm systems and
vessel, piggybacking (via the can bus) settings to any level for any boat, for website links can be found
onto the electronic throttle, shift and convenient, intuitive control. at boatingmag.com/askken.
steering, and bow and stern thrust- The Bluetooth control system —Ken Englert
ers—putting them all in the palm of should prove safe too, thanks to
DOCKMATE your hand.
In our recent test, we activated
a five-channel frequency-hopping
transmitter and receiver, making it ASK KEN ONLINE
WIRELESS the controller and effortlessly pow-
ered forward (at up to 3,000 rpm)
resistant to interference or intercep-
tion. Once your vessel is positioned,
For more exclusive
electronics content, visit
JOYSTICK from the slip, pivoted to exit the tight
quarters, returned to the slip, pivoted
tap the windlass control to drop an-
chor, or tap the joystick to sound the
boatingmag.com/askken.
CONTROLS and backed in again, crab-walking horn in celebration. —Randy Vance

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OFF MY DOCK By Charles Plueddeman
desk and hard at work, and at my

age, it’s hard to focus on two tasks
at once. I snapped to when Chuck
yelled from across the parking lot.
CA N I N E I N T U I T I O N “Hey…the boat!”
I thought I was standing on the
A d og has her day a nd saves ou r day of f ishing. bow line. But I guess I wasn’t, and
H
ope springs eternal in the canine brain. Each morning, I stand now the boat started to slowly drift
at the kitchen counter and open two cans of cat food, and with- away. Dang.
out fail, Mr. Darcy, our white standard poodle, trots over and Woof! Tula barked, looked at
gazes up with lip-smacking expectation. He has never been Chuck and then at me. Sensing we
served the cat food, and he will never get the cat food. But he’s there every were helpless—or hopeless—she
morning, because this might be the day. trotted down the ramp and into the
My good friend Chuck Larson has a jet-black 130-pound Newfound- water, swam out to the boat and
land named Tula. A Newfie loves the water, and hope springs eternal in took the bow line in her mouth. She
Tula’s canine brain every time Chuck drops the boat trailer on the hitch began a slow and steady dog pad-
ball. He’ll walk into the house dle, her best stroke, back toward the
and return to find Tula wait- dock with 1,500 pounds of boat in
She began a slow and steady ing in the truck bed. Poor Tula tow. I swear I am not making this up.
ILLUSTRATION: TIM BOWER; PHOTO: MABEL PLUEDDEMAN
dog paddle, her best stroke, is usually ordered out of the We were astonished, to put it mild-
truck because a 17-foot boat ly. As my grandmother used to say,
back toward the dock with can’t easily accommodate two “Breeding will show.”
1,500 pounds of boat in tow. human anglers and a large Chuck will need a bigger boat if
dog. But I have a soft spot for Tula becomes a regular member of
Tula just because she’s not a narcissistic poodle, and last week I convinced the fishing team, and I don’t think
Chuck it was a good day to take a dog fishing. that’s in the cards. But if every dog
Once the Yar-Craft was launched, it was my job to stand on the dock has her day, Tula had hers. As for
and secure the bow line while Chuck parked the truck. But then my phone Mr. Darcy, what kind of dog likes cat
pinged, and I decided to reply to an editor’s email so as to appear to be at my food anyway?

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HOT OFF THE PRESSES!

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2020 PONTOON BUYERS GUIDE 3 B O AT I N G M A G . C O M

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CALL TODAY! senior vice president / managing director

For reprints, send an email to reprints@bonniercorp.com.

Toll Free: 800-962-5659 sustainably managed

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2020 PONTOON BUYERS GUIDE 5 B O AT I N G M A G . C O M

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2020 PONTOON BUYERS GUIDE 7 B O AT I N G M A G . C O M

PHOTO: COURTESY OPTIMA

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2020 PONTOON BUYERS GUIDE 14 B O AT I N G M A G . C O M

For more than 50 years, the

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2020 PONTOON BUYERS GUIDE 22 B O AT I N G M A G . C O M

2020 PONTOON BUYERS GUIDE 24 B O AT I N G M A G . C O M

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!"# $ "$ % &'$ 

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!"# $ "$ % &'$