Veranda

Relax VR22RC XL

First Impression

Appropriately named, the Relax Series from Veranda Luxury Pontoons is a perfect description of what this line of pontoons is all about. Its thoughtful features such as the power Bimini, built-in fender storage and marine-grade flooring are just a few examples of how this manufacturer strives to make its boats primed for a relaxing day on the water.

Highlights

Designed to be an affordable luxury model, the all-new VR22RC includes an elevated SeaDek helm platform with an extremely comfortable captain’s chair. Centered on the dash is a 7-inch Garmin touchscreen with multi-function analog gauges on one side of the steering wheel and controls to the KICKER sound system on the other. Bluetooth audio bolstered by built-in standard features such as a subwoofer bass tube and RGB marine backlit coaxial speakers help elevate the mood for everyone on board. Plus, there is even a USB port and a designated phone charger for the captain. On the side of the helm stand is a fold out trash can with a glove box below, which are two features we feel every pontoon should have.

Directly across from the helm is a second captain’s chair for your first mate that is equally as comfortable. The revamped Relax series features a major interior refresh with bow and aft seating with lumbar cupholders and USB phone chargers. Not only are there enough comfortable seats to exceed the 12 passenger rating, but the number of cupholders is amazing as we stopped counting when we got into the 30s!

The in-floor ski locker is part of the XL package upgrade and it should be filled with water toys considering the tall ski/pylon in the stern. And on the swimdeck there is plenty of room to towel off after using the stainless telescopic boarding ladder. In the bow, there isn’t a lot of deck space outside the front gate but it does have ample boarding access through the port gate or stern platform.

Why we love this boat…Thoughtful amenities and creature comforts bring a luxurious and high-end vibe to this well-constructed pontoon that is ready to help you and your family truly relax.

Inspection

“No wood, no rot” is Veranda’s philosophy when it comes to its decks and the reason why its boats are constructed a little differently. The foundation of each and every Veranda luxury pontoon is the innovative, patented, all-aluminum, all-welded interlocking deck system. The aluminum planks are extruded, creating hollow chambers inside. These chambers reduce weight and allow for aeration of the deck surface, keeping it up to 15 degrees cooler than standard wood floors during the hot summer months. Each 2 by 6 plank is engineered to interlock together. After the planks are interlocked, they are welded directly to M-brackets that run the full length of each 0.100-gauge, 27-inch diameter pontoon. This unibody construction void of cross-members creates a solid foundation that eliminates flex and noise.

Just being picky…The extra seating capacity with a lot packed into this model is nice, but it does decrease the amount of deck space for boarding at the bow.

Performance

Powered by a Yamaha F200LC that includes integrated steering, the 24-footer just missed the 40 mph mark at full throttle after a zero-to-20 mph time of just over 5 seconds. To maximize the performance, consider an electric steering upgrade.

Final Thoughts

The patented, all-aluminum, all-welded interlocking deck system doesn’t get nearly the recognition it deserves. The solid platform is the brilliant foundation of a superbly built pontoon. As tested we see a lot of added value at this budget-friendly price point that includes a long list of standard features and the right mix of optional upgrades.