Tahoe

25 Cascade ELW Platinum

First Impression

Complete with a high-end automotive vibe, we instantly gravitated towards this beautiful Cascade model. It passes the eye test and the best part might just be that the furniture is as comfortable as it looks. The layout is truly inviting, plus it’s loaded with key features and amenities to help make your day on the water more memorable.

Highlights

The ELW or Elite Windshield floorplan is the focal point of the interior with the powered EX-wakeboard tower tying it all together nicely. The symmetrical look begins in the bow with the two chaise lounges that lead you to the full wraparound tinted windshield that perfectly connects the two helm consoles together.

For the captain and co-captain are identical high back helm chairs that slide, swivel and recline and for the first mate there is a locking glove box with dual cupholders built into the console. At the Commander III helm the Simrad touchscreens anchor the dash with lighted push buttons below, along with access to the Fusion stereo controls. Also for the captain is a small cubby with a USB port inside to charge your phone. Speaking of chargers, the additional cubby in the bow is a nice added touch that will keep your passengers happy.

Behind the co-captain’s chair is an entertainment center that includes a sink, faucet, 12-volt outlet and plenty of counter space. We especially love the trash can below because this Tahoe was born to entertain. On the other side of the L-shaped seating area on the swimdeck is a large truck-like storage that is ideal for storing your water toys. Also on the stern platform is a stainless ski/tow bar and an easy-to-use REVO boarding ladder from LilliPad Marine.

Why we love this boat…The automotive and sporty vibe draws you in, but it’s the comfort, thoughtful amenities and the performance that you’ll truly appreciate.

Other highlights include a locking strong box below the starboard bench seat, an in-floor ski locker, a pop-up changing room that stands 60 inches tall when open, and tower speakers that ensure you get the most out of the Fusion system.

Inspection

As part of the Waveglider High Performance upgrade, the 27-inch diameter pontoons all have lifting strakes—on both sides of the center tube and on the inside of the exterior ones, and the 58-gallon fuel tank comes standard. Above deck, the rail height is a consistent 25 inches tall for a safe and family-friendly design and the aluminum-constructed seat frames create ample storage space below the bench seats that all have extra ventilation.

Just being picky…Behind the helm chair is the L-shaped bench with a wide armrest, but a third chaise lounger that is rear-facing would help get more out of this plush seating configuration.

Performance

We absolutely love the pairing of this upgraded performance hull with the Suzuki 250hp four-stroke. From a cosmetic standpoint the outboard, direct from the factory, matches the boat’s color scheme. More importantly however, the V6 allows this Tahoe to fly across the water for an exhilarating ride. Top speeds near the 50 mph mark were easily within reach after a zero-to-20 mph time of just over 4 seconds, and with the electric steering she handled beautifully, was very responsive and overall fun to pilot.

Final Thoughts

We see considerable added value in the complete package that as tested is loaded with a lot of standard features and key options, while staying in a specific price range. While the price won’t work with every budget, it’s clearly a top-of-the-line model from a manufacturer who has been successfully building pontoons for decades with no sign of slowing down.