We love getting the chance to test drive new pontoon models, so we were thrilled to take a run in Godfrey’s upgraded Sweetwater 2286 with the Split Bench layout and Back Porch Extension. Filled with amenities and comfort, we found this to be a well-constructed entry- to mid-level pontoon with a fantastic furniture arrangement that was fun to drive.

Besides looking sporty and being stocked with amenities, this boat hits the sweet spot of having everything you need in a pontoon while still coming in at a great price point. The model we tested featured the new vinyl color option of tan with crimson accents, which felt like the cherry on top.

And we aren’t the only ones finding this model appealing. Sales rep Gary Creigh from Tall Timbers Marina in Monticello, Ind., said it attracts so many customers because of its quality, color options, and pricing value.

“Customers love the Sweetwater line because so many can afford it. The value of what you’re getting with a triple tube in the $50K price range is exceptional,” he said.

Back Porch Extension

Normally we’d begin our reviews at the bow, but in this case we have to highlight the exceptional swim deck at the stern. Our tested model included the Back Porch Extension, which added an additional 2 feet of space and opened up the entire back deck for the perfect lounging area. You’ll have plenty of room to hang out in the sun, reboard after a swim, or stack oversized towables for a day of fun on the water.

Comfort At Every Corner

Featuring Godfrey’s Split Bench layout, the Sweetwater we tested is made with comfortable seating in mind. The extremely open floor plan boasts two large seating areas and an open center deck from bow to stern. Two chaise lounges in the bow and two in the stern will give everyone on board an excellent seat and room to relax. You’ll be able to bring your family and friends to your party on the water in welcoming comfort, especially with seating for up to 17 passengers. Add the optional bow filler seat for the perfect spot to watch the sunset.

Fantastic Furniture

New for Model Year 2025, the pontoon features new Rotocast seat bases with deeper, wider seats, and more storage below. Beyond functional, these seats were especially comfortable and looked beautiful, too. The new vinyl color options of Sienna Beige with Crimson accents had stitched-in logos and were especially cushy. RGB lighted cupholders in the lumbar of the loungers give a perfect, out-of-the-way spot to store drinks and sunscreen.

At The Helm

In addition to a comfortable captain’s chair to make you feel like you’re king of the boat, you also have the option of adding a co-captain’s seat in place of the port aft bench lounger. The passenger cubby also has a convenient locking glove box and an insert by Boat Outfitters, a division of Teak Isle, with a tilt-out trash can.

Our model included the cooled cupholder at helm, which felt especially deluxe, as well as a wireless phone charger with a water-resistant charging pad for fast charging, and a rubber grip surface with storage space.

The symmetrical helm console displayed a Lowrance Eagle 5 MFD depth and fishfinder recessed into the dash, and an upgraded Clarion Color Plus stereo. The CMM-30 head unit had full-color LCD display and four RGB speakers with chrome sport grilles. Also conveniently located at the helm are a fire extinguisher, 12-volt outlet, and a USB port.

Satisfying Standards

The best pontoons are packed with desirable standard features, and this one definitely delivers. From the bow to stern, the Sweetwater is built with a high level of quality. Creating a cohesive and sporty look, the colorful fastback rails tie into the silver rail frame and silver canopy frame, in addition to the silver rubrail with skirting. A snapless playpen cover and interior courtesy lights are included.

Rewarding Upgrades

Our test boat included the option of an EZ Lift manual double Bimini for the perfect amount of shade. It also had the full spectrum RGB package, which added a party vibe with underseat mood lights, courtesy lights, underdeck and underwater lights, and RGB cupholders.

For higher performance and better turning capacity, our model included the iMPACT+ center tube package. With two 27-inch diameter outer tubes and a 29-inch diameter center tube, the pontoon performed more like a V-hull that is capable of taking some very sharp turns. Also aiding the performance was the added underdeck skin and lifting strakes.

The dual battery option has a switch so you can easily transfer power from one battery to another in case you spent too long with the stereo blasting at the sandbar, and the Mesa Beige flooring is comfortable underfoot. We also loved the rectangular table (upgraded from a smaller, round one), as it could easily fit more snacks and drinks.

Family Friendly

The layout and amenities ensure that the Sweetwater is a family-friendly pontoon. The fully-enclosed playpen sports three tall gates at the bow, stern, and port. Kids can easily climb aboard the boat with the four-step ladder that reaches 50 inches into the water from the deck, and everyone will love lounging on the open swim deck. With 12 cupholders and a table pedestal in the rear, your family will be set up for snacks no matter how long you’re on the water.

The smooth rail skins offer a sleek and modern design and are available with endless customizable options, color choices, and multiple graphic options so you can look and feel at home on the water. This pontoon packs a tremendous amount of value and comfort amenities so your family can easily spend time building fun memories on the water.