man driving Bennington 27 qxsbt2 pontoon
Bennington
27 qxsbt2
First Impression
The “wow factor” is extremely high on this purple Bennington that is sure to be the talk of the dock wherever it goes. The Shiraz purple exterior ties in beautifully with the interior accent and that same color is even incorporated on the twin outboards. No detail is overlooked on this eye-catcher that may have you rethinking what a dreamboat really looks like.
Highlights
As you come on board you’re greeted with bright white seats and the Shiraz purple accent, which when combined with the pillow top diamond stitched sport upholstery, looks and feels high-end. The color combo also flows perfectly with its new Shoreline woven vinyl flooring.

In the bow are two chaise lounges with a third rear-facing one directly across from the helm. The one-piece fiberglass helm stand includes a console footrest on the elevated platform and a high back captain’s chair that slides, swivels and reclines.

At the the helm the dash incorporates three digital touchscreens with a Yamaha digital gauge on the right of the polished steering wheel and the new Bennington Vessel Control Digital Switch Pad on the left. However, it’s the new 12-inch Vivid UX digital main display with integrated GPS that is centered on the dash and a main focal point of the helm. The new Vivid UX includes running and float mode that automatically switches when the boat is powered off. Other console highlights include a stereo control knob to the Rockford Fosgate stereo and Yamaha’s integrated Helm Master EX joystick controls that will make maneuvering the twin engine boat a breeze, especially in tight spaces.

In the stern is a multi-function lounger with a swingback, a stereo remote, and plenty of room to spread out. On the extended deck is where you’ll find the two large V6 outboards with a LilliPad Marine REVO boarding ladder in between. Other key highlights include a power Bimini and two in-floor storage compartments with the smallest one designed to be used as an anchor locker that includes a cleat inside.

Why we love this boat…An extremely comfortable, purpose-built, twin engine beauty that lived up to the high expectations we had for this sporty dream boat.
Inspection
The Sports Performance System Plus (SPS+) is for engines over 200hp with heavier duty construction. Upgrades include a composite transom, additional brackets, internal bracing, weld spacing, and an aluminum thickness of .100 throughout. The package includes three full-length 25-inch diameter pontoons, lifting strakes on the center pontoon, performance foils on the inside of the outer pontoons, solid round keels, under deck wave shield and SeaStar hydraulic steering.
Performance
There aren’t a lot of guarantees in life, but if this Yamaha 350hp twin powered Bennington doesn’t put a smile on your face it might be you. After a blistering zero-to-20 mph time of just over 3 seconds we reached a top speed over 60 mph! With the electric steering she handles like a dream and with the SPS+ hull she banked beautifully in the sharp turns for a fun and exhilarating ride.
Just being picky…The portable cupholders work, but it would be nice to see some recessed ones throughout the boat because with this one you’re sure to attract countless new friends.
Final Thoughts
We don’t toss around “dreamboat” too often, but as tested this Bennington is truly amazing. Like other fantasy-worthy dreams, it comes in at a price that won’t be for every budget, but it’s sure to pay off for those who have the deep pockets and strive to be the talk of the dock.
purple yamaha engines and ladder on Bennington 27 qxsbt2 pontoon
closeup of steering wheel on Bennington 27 qxsbt2 pontoon
3/4 side view of driver's seat on Bennington 27 qxsbt2 pontoon
seating and table area of Bennington 27 qxsbt2 pontoon
large lounge seat on Bennington 27 qxsbt2 pontoon
closeup of throttle on Bennington 27 qxsbt2 pontoon
RPM
vs.
SPEED
vs.
DB-A
550
3.7
82
1000
6.6
86.5
1500
9.9
88.5
2000
15.5
86
2500
21.7
95
3000
28.4
92
3500
33.9
96.5
4000
39.7
96
4500
44.4
96.5
5000
49.0
97
5500
53.5
102
6000
61.5
108
Stats
  • Number Of Occupants13
  • Price As Tested With Power$360K
  • Maximum Speed61.5mph
  • Wild Ponies700hp
  • No. Of Gates3
  • 0-20 MPH3.2 seconds
  • Ladder Measurement48” deep
Vital Stats
  • LOA28’ 3”
  • Beam8’ 6”
  • Hull DesignSPS Plus Performance Package
  • Dry Weight5,000 lbs.
  • Fuel Capacity108 gals.
Test Drive
  • EngineYamaha 350
  • Engine TypeV6
  • Displacement/Horsepower4.3L/350hp
  • Lower Unit Gear Ratio1.75:1
  • Propeller15 x 20
Price
  • Price As Tested$359,809
(Boat & Engines)
  • Base Price, No Options$252,301
(Boat w/ Std. Engines)
Options on Test Boat
Illuminated Cupholder, Exterior Side Lighting, Underwater Lighting,Toe Kick Lights, Rockford Fosgate Speakers, Heavy Duty Rub Rail, Ski Pylon, Saltwater Pkg., Metal Jacket, Integrated Steering Helm, In Floor Storage, and Upgraded 12” Vivid Display.
Notable Standards
Swingback Stern Lounger, 2 USB Charge Station w/ Volt Meter. Lighted Gate Glides, New Shoreline Woven Vinyl Flooring, Extended Aft Deck, Fire Extinguisher, SS Rimmed Cupholders, Waste Container, Quick Release 10’ Bimini Top w/Surlast Embroidered Boot, Surlast Mooring Cover w/Quick Clips, LilliPad Marine REVO Ladder, Tilt Steering, New 7” Bennington Vivid UX Main Display w/Integrated GPS, New 12 Button Bennington Vessel Control Digital Switch Pad, New Rockford Fosgate PMX-1 Headunit & Speakers, New Horizon Helm, New Binnacle Arm Cupholder/Locking Glove Box Combo, New Mid-Ship Storage Pocket w/Diamond Shatter Accent, New Glass Windscreen, New Woodgrain & Stitched Helm Shroud, and New Vivid UX Power Switch.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Elkhart, Ind. – 574-264-6336
www.benningtonmarine.com