#314 Utility & Sport

PDB Tested | Boats and accessories we’ve tested

Sylvan L-3 CLZ DH

Sylvan L-3 CLZ DH
& SunChaser Geneva
22 LR DH Sport

By Brittnie L. Gavin

If you are looking into a pontoon with utility, fashion and power, Sylvan and SunChaser absolutely know where it’s at. We can say this for certain after testing the Sylvan L-3 CLZ DH and the SunChaser Geneva 22 LR DH Sport that are manufactured together at the Indiana-based plant.

No matter what you’re looking for, the Sylvan L-3 CLZ DH and the Geneva 22 LR DH Sport have you covered. Let’s take a deeper dive into these high-quality pontoons built by the SmokerCraft boat manufacturer.

Sylvan L-3 CLZ DH

When making this boat, Sylvan seriously did not leave any stones unturned. Standard for the Sylvan L-3 CLZ DH, this pontoon comes with an extended rear deck that includes a four-step telescoping ladder so no matter what you are doing you have plenty of space for it. At night, you can liven up the mood too with blue interior mood lighting, bringing you to a whole new world while out enjoying the ambiance.

Captain-Friendly

Additionally, the console comes with everything a captain may need while out for a comfortable cruise. There is a cupholder, an AM/FM stereo that also syncs up with Bluetooth (because let’s be real here, not everyone listens to what the radio stations have to offer anymore). It also has a speedometer, voltmeter, tachometer, trim gauge, a gorgeous Verona steering wheel, a windscreen, fuel gauge, and to top it all off, a highly comfortable high back helm chair.

And these great features are only what come standard! If you want more amenities there are numerous upgrades and packages that can help fit any of your specific boating needs.

Not only does the Sylvan come with countless features, but it also allows you and your crew to gaze at the lake in full view. Right from the moment we stepped foot on board, we enjoyed the high-end feel of the interior and we could not help but appreciate the copious amounts of seating and space.

Sylvan L-3 CLZ DH

Sylvan L-3 CLZ DH rear ladder and Yamaha motor

Comfort Locator

As it turns out, the seating is a major selling point, not just for us, but for numerous customers interested in this particular layout for Sylvan. Steve Huber, marketing coordinator for SmokerCraft, noted that the versatile seating was something buyers of these models highly appreciate as well as the spaciousness.

The seats are crafted of high-quality, soft vinyl and no matter where you are sitting, how you are sitting, or however long you are sitting, these seats will keep you supremely comfortable. Working our way from the bow to the stern, the Sylvan comes with a pair of extremely comfortable captain’s seats. To the rear of the pontoon, and perhaps what makes this model so unique, it has a flip-back seating arrangement. If you flip it back, you can enjoy a dual-facing rear lounger with a huge rear cushion. Flipping it forward will provide a more traditional L-shaped seating area.

Huber added that the rear is ideal for a lot of boaters, saying, “The boat’s back deck is practical. It extends out to provide an extra two feet, which is excellent for our practical boaters.”

SunChaser Geneva 22 LR DH Sport

a two seater lounge on the SunChaser Geneva 22 LR DH Sport

Fully Loaded

Thanks to all the bells and whistles this new model for 2021 comes with, this is the sort of boat that all boaters—regardless of whether they are new or highly experienced—can enjoy. It comes in at a nice mid-range price point starting at $46,992 with a Yamaha 115hp outboard. Whether you want to ski, tube, fish, cruise, or upgrade to a comfortable layout, this Sylvan is ready for adventure.

“This boat is perfect for anyone, from people who want to scream down the lake at high speeds, or for those who simply want to enjoy the sunset,” concluded Huber.

Geneva 22 LR DH Sport

Along with the Sylvan, the Geneva 22 LR DH Sport from SunChaser is also a new model for 2021. It comes standard with a windscreen and a protected fiberglass console with cooler storage below. The dashboard displays all the key gauges you need to watch while underway including a tachometer, fuel gauge, voltmeter and speedometer.

There is also a high-quality Kicker FMC10 stereo that is compatible with Bluetooth speakers so no matter where you go you can experience powerful tunes that can be catered to your tastes.

High-End Look

Like the Sylvan, the Geneva Sport also comes equipped with exceptionally comfortable seating and a high back helm chair. Not to mention this pontoon is a beauty to behold! It has full height aluminum side panels, exterior graphics, and docking lights. On top of that, it comes with a sleek, sporty look to it. We love the dark grey furniture that includes a smooth navy blue accent to it, and the color-coordinated theme continues throughout the boat.

This is one of SunChaser’s top-selling layouts and for good reason. There are two rear-facing lounges, two forward-facing chaise lounges and two captain helm seats. This allows the Geneva 22 LR DH Sport to support a maximum capacity of 11 passengers while also allowing for abundant space to boot. If you get the sport package, you can also enjoy an extended rear deck along with a ski/pylon.

Sylvan L-3 CLZ DH

SunChaser Geneva 22 LR DH Sport

Sylvan L-3 CLZ DH

Value Driven

It is also worth mentioning that the console was redesigned for 2021 and comes with an upgraded stereo combining some seriously high quality with a budget-friendly price. Crafted with premium value, this boat tends to be on the more affordable side of things (standard price is $35,658 with a 60hp Mercury). As Huber says, “There is a lot of boat for your money, so you are getting your bang for your buck.”

Something For Everyone

Between the Sylvan and the Geneva Sport, if you are looking for a quality boat that is versatile in every way, this manufacturer has your back. With the Sylvan L-3 CLZ DH’s flip back seating and its hankering for the practical boater looking for utility, and the price-friendly Geneva 22 LR DH Sport supporting a sleek style and updated bells and whistles, these are the kind of pontoons that can appeal to just about anyone.

SunChaser Geneva 22 LR DH Sport

Sylvan

L-3 CLZ DH

LOA: 23’ 10”
Beam: 8’ 6”
Dry Weight: 2,100 lbs.
Max Speed: 37.3 mph
Fuel Capacity: 60 gals.
0-20 mph: 4.4 seconds
Test Engine: Yamaha 200

SunChaser

Geneva 22 LR DH Sport

LOA: 22’ 10”
Beam: 8’ 6”
Dry Weight: 2,061 lbs.
Max Speed: 31.2 mph
Fuel Capacity: 60 gals.
0-20 mph: 4.0 seconds
Test Engine: Mercury 150 FourStroke
Propeller: 16×11

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