Features | Boat Show Preview
PDB Staff Report
New For '22
PDB Staff Report
Our Annual Boat Show Preview
With continued optimism that our favorite in-person boat shows will return in 2022, we couldn’t be more excited for next year. As a staff we’ve compiled a preview of the new pontoon and deck boat models as well as significant changes in the industry for 2022 model year that we hope you’ll be seeing at a convention center near you this spring.
Angler Qwest
Angler Qwest,
New And Improved Lineup
The Fish N Cruise Pro is making a splash as Angler Qwest’s updated line for 2022. Though it existed in previous years, it’s getting a whole new face lift for next year. For starters, the Fish N Cruise line features new powder-coating, an 8.5-foot beam, a foot long cantilever extension off the back and much more.

One of the models in this updated line is the 8524 Pro Fish N Cruise. The pontoon boat comes equipped with everything you need. Its fiberglass center console comes ready with a space for a multi-function display with digital gauges, along with a 10-switch rocker switch panel featuring a storage compartment. You’ll also find a JL MM50 Bluetooth stereo system alongside the stainless steel steering wheel with power knob and tilt steering.

The fiberglass leaning post captain seat has two tackle drawers, four tackle trays and an intergraded 25-gallon livewell with max air recirculation. The rear fishing station has a quick measure board along with plier and cupholders, plus an 18-gallon livewell with a high-pressure washdown. Basically, this boat is an angler’s dream come true.

Furthermore, Angler Qwest has made it so that all of its 2022 models come standard with an 8.5-foot beam, 25-inch diameter pontoons, powder-coating, 1.25-inch rails, 1-foot cantilevers off the back and all-new furniture.

www.anglerqwestpontoons.com

Catalina Platinum Reloads For Family Fun
Avalon,
Catalina Platinum Reloads For Family Fun
Get ready to meet the fully-loaded Catalina Platinum by Avalon Pontoons, which is now available with an exciting new interior for next year: the Electric Versatile Rear Bench Windshield (EVRBW).

The 2022 Catalina Platinum EVRBW is available in 25- and 27-foot lengths, and it features the large rear bench/bed with an electric sliding seat back. This nifty feature allows the seat back to slide fore or aft to any desired spot, creating front- or rear-facing lounging. You can even toggle it to somewhere in the middle or enjoy both! This full windshield model also features the Waveglider triple high performance pontoon package which will allow you to dart across the water with power and ease. You don’t want to miss the new Catalina Platinum EVRBW!

www.avalonpontoons.com

Lusso
Corsa
Cabrio
Barletta,
Beyond A Name Change
After replacing the E-Class line with the re-launched Corsa in 2021, it was just a matter of time until Barletta renamed its C-Class and L-Class lines as well. For the new model year the manufacturer’s high-end luxury series of pontoons (formally known as the L-Class) has been renamed Lusso with quite a few significant upgrades. As for the C-Class price-point models, those will now be known as the Cabrio line.

Combining luxury and top-shelf building techniques, popular models for Barletta include the Quad-Lounge, the Ultra-Lounge and the Ultra-Entertainer, each with an array of floorplans meant to fit specific needs and lifestyles.

Improvements to the Lusso include the Sport Stern (SS) now being standard, an all-new helm shape and styling, plus a new exterior rail design. There is also a new Carmella tan interior color, RGB lighting upgrade on the Ultra-Entertainer (UE) models, and a bolster chair option is now available for the captain.

For its mid-line Corsa line the name stays the same, but significant changes include a new 21UC floorplan. On all Corsa pontoons the Doggie DockView is now standard, a see-through door panel that allows your pets to see out while also giving you a better view of the dock. Other new changes include an added Argento interior color, grab handles at the recessed cupholders as well as a new steering wheel. And like the Lusso line, the RGB lighting upgrade is now standard on the Ultra-Entertainer (UE) models.

Last but certainly not least, there are improvements to the Cabrio line as well, including all-new furniture styling, a new Carmella interior color that replaces its Renata tan and the helm chair is now a Highback as part of the standard package with a bolster chair now available as an option. The RGB lighting has been upgraded on UE models as well as on all Ultra-Lounge models.

www.barlettaboats.com

Bennington
Bennington,
There Is Nothing Quite Like The Q
Bennington’s flagship Q line is the pinnacle of comfort and luxury on the water. The Q’s unmistakable curved bow silhouette just got even better for 2022 with an all-new exterior featuring integrated docking and navigation lights. The sleek design also includes standard features such as a stainless steel rub rail, pop-up cleats, stern gate, and a telescoping ladder. The Q can be personalized right down to the finest detail with options such as timeless diamond-stitch upholstery or the all-new Sport interior for a sportier look, both featuring Simtex premium luxury vinyls.

With nearly 40 floorplans available ranging from 23 to 30 feet, as well as several different performance packages and the largest selection of engine options, Bennington boats can be matched to any boating style. Opt for sterndrive models up to 430hp, single-engine outboards up to 600hp, or twin-engine configurations pushing 900hp.

www.benningtonmarine.com

Berkshire,
LE Priced Entry But Delivers So Much More
When it comes to cupholders, Berkshire feels like the more the merrier. That’s why they’ve added recessed cupholders in the furniture to their LE line.

This limited edition, limited option line has been a huge taker over the last few years. The LE line was intended for a first-time buyer and the easy-to-order boat has a lot of high-end features you’ll find in their other not-so-entry level lines.

The new helm has a wireless charger that was a big hit in its CTS, STS and Sport boats last year. It was so widely appreciated that they added it into the LE line. Plus, the entire helm has an overall new look to it. The throttle is closer to the driver, there’s an added cupholder and a new face on the dash. The LE is sure to be great a seller once again as the improved features roll out for the 2022 year.

www.berkshirepontoon.com

Berkshire
Caravelle Razor
Caravelle Razor interior
Caravelle Razor's motors
Caravelle Razor interior
Caravelle Razor,
Bigger And Better
Get ready because Caravelle is introducing its new 2022 252 XL UR. This is the kind of boat that’ll get your adrenaline pumping, especially when it features twin 200hp Suzuki outboards. The 25-foot model features a fiberglass bi-toon hull and has a capacity of up to 11 people.

The 252 XL UR’s helm comes equipped with everything you need, including a full gauge package, a GPS/fish finder, a sport steering wheel and a premium stereo package. You’ll also find a kitchen on board with a beverage cooler and sink. Plus, this model also comes with a built-in ice chest.

The front lounge seats offer plenty of underseat storage and you’ll notice a rear entertainment table that’s perfect for hanging out with friends and family. The 252 XL UR also features a monster tower Bimini, giving it an even sportier look while simultaneously enhancing your watersports options. In addition, the boat comes with a stainless steel propeller, stainless steel marine cleats and a rear-boarding ladder.

www.caravelleboatgroup.com

Godfrey Marine's steering wheel
Godfrey Marine
Godfrey Marine,
Upgrades For Sanpan, Sweetwater and Sweetwater Xperience
For 2022, Godfrey has a lot of new and exciting upgrades coming your way, including 19 all-new layouts from the Sanpan line. Godfrey has pulled out all the stops with its breakthrough dynamic styling, premium performance, and intelligent design. Godfrey pontoons are crafted specifically to make every experience and every moment unforgettable.

The new Sanpan floorplans are the pinnacle of luxury and showcase fantastic amenities. The level of design and integration in each model is first-rate, and each comes equipped with a standard 12-inch infotainment multi-function display. Choose among options that offer increased seating for lounging, co-captain seating, split-bench seating, flip-seating and more. Sanpan also offers twin-engine models and windshield models for an elevated experience.

Also from Godfrey, its Sweetwater and Sweetwater Xperience models just got an upgrade too with a new and improved helm. The helm showcases quality industrial design with a contoured helm door that is solid and fully integrated. The helm also features two wireless phone charging options, a gimbal mount which can act as a Navionics display, and a Bluetooth interface for the audio sound system. Also available is a 7-inch optional infotainment multi-function display. This new helm is sleek! 

www.godfreypontoonboats.com

Hurricane Pontoon
Hurricane,
Pontoon Top With A Deck Boat Hull
Hurricane is bringing a rejuvenation of the boat that started it all for the new model year. The all-new FunDeck lineup offers new designs, amenities and features for an unforgettable experience. From cleats that have been integrated into the deck to improved ergonomics and design of the helm to an enhanced hull design, Hurricane has considered every detail and sacrificed nothing to bring the classic boat into a new year with a new look and feel. The all-new FunDeck lineup is sure to stand out.

FunDeck models offer open floorplan designs that provide more space for entertaining as well as shallow draft versatility. You really can have it all with the combined space and entertainment capabilities of a FunDeck pontoon. And with the industry-leading new deck boat hull, the FunDeck offers a one-of-a-kind thrill ride.

www.hurricaneboats.com

Lowe Boats
Lowe Boats,
For Serious Lake Relaxation
Lowe is proud to introduce their new SS Pontoon Series and Bay Series of deck boats. To start, their all-new Lowe SS Series brings fun and excitement to the lake like none other. Its stunning new design will make it turn heads with its handsome high-profile, solid fence that encircles a cozy playpen with comfy lounges, a well-thought-out helm, and plenty of storage for all the boating gear you need.

The SS offers a range of six sizes, including the conversion lounge and dual helm conversion lounge layout. This layout features an aft conversion lounge which is as large as a queen-sized bed, making it the perfect fit for serious lake relaxation enthusiasts. The innovative floorplan makes it so it’s convenient to play and entertain all day long whether you’re cruising facing forward or catching the action at the back of the boat.

The conversion lounge and dual helm conversion lounge are available in the 210, 230 and 250 sizes of the SS Series, and are filled with functional comforts including plush seating, convenient cup and storage nooks, a generous swim ladder and numerous color and flooring options.

Don’t forget about Lowe’s new Bay Series of deck boats. This all-new series allows you to more fully explore in-shore adventures while encouraging the angler inside of you. These quick, shallow-drafting bay boats offer high fishability and performance in a stylish package with all-welded aluminum durability.

You can get through shallow water and handle larger waves thanks to their modified V-hull. Plus, the Bay Series give you an enormous platform that allows you to target everything from muskies to catfish in fresh water.

You’ll also drive in comfort with a standing bird’s-eye view from the boat’s center console to better spot any shallow hazards when going throw skinny water. The padded leaning post with a footrest also provides a comfortable, high perch.

www.loweboats.com

Manitou boat
Side view of Manitou boat
Manitou,
Even More Power And Features
For decades, BRP has been creating amazing on-water experiences for families and friends, and the new Manitou lineup continues that tradition. Manitou’s model year 2022 lineup brings more power and premium features to an already impressive offering of performance, luxury and leisure pontoon boats.

The Michigan-based manufacturer raises the bar for power on the sport and luxury Manitou XT and LX models—now certified with a maximum 900 horsepower rating! Bring friends along for the day, with an adrenaline rush like no other, whether you are going flat out on a glassy lake or bouncing over a wake in a tube or on skis.

The Manitou advantage is not just the higher horsepower, but the Manitou V-Toon  technology hull. As speeds increase, the natural ability of a hull to heel becomes increasingly important, not only for comfort, but for safety. Manitou has solved this by doing more than just adding a third tube bolted to the deck of its pontoons. The patented and proven Manitou V-Toon technology was engineered to optimize performance, beginning with the size and precise positioning of the center tube. It is this precise positioning, along with strategically placed positive angle lifting strakes, that results in the exact degree of deadrise and water displacement needed to simulate the standard v-hull. With the right amount of speed and angle of surface, a boat will plane, or lift to the top of the water. This means a Manitou performance hull, found on the VP and Sport Handling Package (SHP) models, will heel into a turn like a racecar on a banked track, providing stability and giving the operator easier handling and more control.

On the other side of the lineup, the 2022 Manitou Aurora LE packs even more premium features for fun for the whole family. Once the sun goes down, the party can continue through the night. The Manitou Aurora LE Premium Package—one of three available packages on this model—features additional LED courtesy and interior lighting, as well as top-of-the-line Fusion stereo components, which add exemplary value to an already incredible design.

And for a bold statement that matches your personality, Manitou refreshed its color schemes on all these models: the Aurora LE, LX and XT. Manitou XT models will surely turn heads on and off the water with brand-new colors including Purple Potion, Chromaflair Pearlescent, Highland Green and Lemon Zest.

www.manitoupontoonboats.com

Misty Harbor top view
Misty Harbor
Misty Harbor,
Building On Its Success
The Viaggio line of pontoon boats by Misty Harbor has some big upgrades for its Lago Series in 2022. This series is a mid-line priced boat that just took a major turn for luxury while still keeping its high value for your money.

The manufacturer just added new two-toned fencing, which adds a lot more variety for you when designing your new Lago boat. The furniture also got a substantial upgrade in the quality of the vinyl since they are now using the same vinyl in the Lago that is used in Misty Harbor’s high-end Diamante Series.

Additionally, several new models are being released to the series including the E, T and their famous Q quad captain chair boat. The Q has been one of its best-sellers in the Diamante Series and Misty Harbor received big praise from dealers and retail customers for bringing the layout to the Lago Series. Lastly, the series also got a big upgrade in its fiberglass helm, adding noticeably more class with its new high-end look.

Misty Harbor’s Diamante Series absolutely exploded last year in popularity across the market so they decided to add several new boat layouts to that series: the E and the T. The T model is a throwback to the old Misty Harbor Biscayne Bay BC, their second most popular selling model. Then the E includes three full-size captain chairs with a lot of bench seating and dry storage options. Their new blue accented furniture is also quite fetching.

Misty Harbor’s Del Mar Series, their entry-level boat, also took a massive upgrade in its furniture package. It now comes equipped with a plush Leon vinyl that matches pace with other high-end boats.

www.mistyharborboats.com

Princecraft
Inside view of the - Princecraft boat
Princecraft's motor
Princecraft,
The New Electric Brio 2.0 Series
Princecraft is launching the new Brio 2.0 Electric, an all-new series that offers electric propulsion with advanced features to ensure boaters can get the most of their time on the water across three completely redesigned models: 17-, 19- and 21-footers. Each model includes new upholstery, a Roto-molded console, and a 6-inch increase in width to provide additional space to welcome friends and family onboard.

The Brio series is powered by Torqeedo electric engines and offers a solar panel option, providing boaters an incredible amount of independence to enjoy a full day on the water. Additionally, the Brio series offers a redesigned bow profile Rotocast battery box, which can accommodate up to four Gr 31 batteries, two 24V batteries, or one 48V Torqeedo Lithium battery with the option to add an additional battery bank. New features of the Brio series were designed with weight alignment in mind to ensure lighter construction and maximize on-water power.

The new Brio 210-2S is especially impressive with its walk-through gates with lift and lock hinges on the rear, bow and port sides, a stern swim platform, and two swivel folding fishing seats. It also includes a swivel folding driver’s seat and a chaise lounge with storage. This boat is impressive in its design and functionality, showcasing the best of the Brio series.

www.princecraft.com

E-Class Adds The 816 CTR Cruise LT
Qwest,
E-Class Adds The 816 CTR Cruise LT
Qwest is proud to introduce its all-new 2022 Qwest 816 CTR Cruise LT. This pontoon boat is a member of the 2022 Qwest E-Class which comes in three trim levels: the L, LT and LTZ. These new trim levels feature various packages in order to align with different boaters’ various individual needs and budgets.

The new CTR Cruise LT is a handsome boat featuring a well-thought-out interior. Starting at the front of the boat you have a comfortable 67-inch starboard bench with a layback across from the 47-inch front port bench with a layback. Then moving toward the back of the boat you have a comfortable helm across from a cozy 45-inch rear port bench with a layback. The LT comes with all the afore mentioned, plus a deluxe captain’s seat, tilt steering, Garmin Striker 5 and other great features.

You’re definitely going to want to check out this all-new model for 2022 along with the rest of Qwest’s stunning lineup. You’ll also notice that all of their 2022 models now come standard with powder-coating, forward facing Bimini, Clarion stereos, and custom color-matched playpen covers amongst many other new standard features

Plus, if you are interested in electrics, Qwest Pontoons are among the industry’s leaders in electric-powered pontoons. Electric power continues to grow in the market and Qwest has the models and designs specifically for this demand.

www.qwestpontoons.com

South Bay
South Bay,
Here Comes The ULE
New for 2022, South Bay is proud to introduce its new Ultimate Lounge Entertainer (ULE) model to the 500 series, which is available in both 23- and 25-foot lengths. One of the things that make this boat truly unique is the way that the lounger in the stern of the boats can be changed into a table. This makes this model South Bay’s newest entertainer style boat for next year.

The cushion on the table snaps off and the bed easily pulls up, forming a table where you can play cards, enjoy wine and a charcuterie board, or have lunch with the kiddos. The swingback has been one of their most popular models over the last few years, along with their bar boat. This made them realize they could create a concept that allows you to have both, giving you the best of both worlds.

Additionally, South Bay partnered with Weiland Designs, an award-winning company famous for their furniture designs and engineering. They tasked them with giving the South Bay 500 series a face lift and the manufacturer is more than impressed with the turnout.

They’ve added storage space in the seat backs that have USB charging ports, and the chaise lids now have double the storage. Plus, the curvature lines give the boat a higher-end look with extremely comfortable seating.

Then, for some of the best audio experiences on the water, South Bay introduced Wet Sounds last year. This year they took the next step and moved the speakers from the floor and recessed them right into the furniture. Raising the speakers takes the sound to a whole new level.

www.southbaypontoon.com

Family around the boat
Starcraft boat
Starcraft,
EXS 5 Just Got Even Better
For 2022, the enhanced new version has brand-new exterior rails and graphics along with a new interior design and console. The EXS comes standard with the HMX PR25 Performance Package, which provides a third tube standard with lifting strakes and a ski pylon. The EXS also comes equipped with standard black exterior rails and an extended deck as well as a standard power Bimini top.

The Schrock family’s commitment to excellence for four generations brings passion and quality to life with Starcraft pontoons. Each pontoon is built to the highest standard with no compromise in comfort or detail.

www.starcraftmarine.com

Starcraft boat speeding
Starcraft,
SVX Deck Boat Series Is Expanding
More than 60 years of fiberglass boat-building expertise means that Starcraft’s deck boat offerings are top-of-the-line, and the SVX 210 OB is no exception. The already popular SVX series has been expanded to include a full wraparound windshield for an enhanced experience. The series also now offers exterior customization with eight different gel coat color options and the choice of either a gray or cognac interior theme. The SVX series comes standard with a Bimini top, four-speaker stereo system, EVA soft-touch traction mat on the bow and stern platforms, and a bow and stern telescoping ladder. This beautiful craft is truly loaded with value and amenities.

www.starcraftmarine.com

SunCatcher boat
SunCatcher,
Going Elite With The 324 SS
The Elite Series continues to be SunCatcher’s flagship series in pontoon boats. Model year 2022 brings significant and exciting upgrades to the entire Elite series, though the Elite 324 SS really stands out in the lineup. The modified rail design and new 3D graphics with an array of new color options give these pontoons a boost in curb appeal, while an upgraded console brings a soft-touch look. Each Elite series model also comes with a built-in cooler in the starboard front bench. One of the most notable options for all series of SunCatcher pontoons manufactured by G3 Boats, is the Teak Isle Lounger inserts, with a choice of trash can, drawer storage, tackle tray storage or fold-out table. This feature allows customers to build each boat to suit.

The optional automatic power Bimini upgrade is a must-have, allowing anyone to deploy and retract with the touch of a button and taking the hassle out of deploying and stowing Bimini tops. What’s more, the new direct remote fuel system on all SunCatcher pontoons makes filling up at the pump easier with a taller motor pod plus a larger fuel tank that holds 46 gallons of fuel.

The Elite Series for 2022 will also see the addition of the optional helm master system from Yamaha. This system is a fully integrated boat-control system that includes enhanced binnacle control, a streamlined digital display, push-button start/stop switches, and an RFID key fob and innovative joystick.

The Elite 324 SS comes equipped with all of the above and more. Yamaha gauges and controls and a wireless phone charging station offer an improved tech experience. A Polk UMC1 stereo head unit with 4 Polk DB652 speakers is close at hand, and a smartly styled custom tilt wheel and hydraulic steering give ultimate control. A standard Simrad GO7 GPS in-dash unit gives the captain of the boat confidence during navigation, and a high-back helm chair with arms swivels and reclines for total comfort.

www.suncatcherpontoons.com

SunChaser
SunChaser,
Eclipse 25 SBX Splashes A New Look
The new layout for the Eclipse Series doesn’t disappoint. With standard black rails and a ski/tow that is integrated into the rear exterior rail, this pontoon definitely separates itself from the rest. But what makes its layout unique is the rear seating area with a table and two chairs to maximize the space. The Eclipse’s upgrade also includes a flip-back seat that can face forward to create traditional L-group seating or be flipped back to use in the picnic area underneath the standard power Bimini top.

As part of Smoker Craft Inc., the SunChaser pontoon family boasts five generations of experience and boat-building expertise. There is something for everyone in SunChaser’s lineup of over 50 different pontoon models, and each is crafted with comfort and function in mind.

www.sunchaserboats.com

Sylvan
Sylvan,
Upgrades Are Coming To Its L-Series
Keeping with its tradition of over 70 years of excellence in the pontoon boating industry, Sylvan has done it again with its latest upgrades to the popular L-Series. The L-3 RLZ just got even better with rear seating that has two flip-back seats. Each seat can be laid all the way down to create a full rear-facing lounge, or the seats can be used in the upright position for a convenient picnic or seating area under the standard power Bimini top. Combined with the flexibility of the standard L-3 layout, this new feature really takes it to the next level.

Sylvan is known for its innovative, industry-leading products and its luxurious interiors, inspired designs, and high standard of quality. They offer a variety of options that allow customization where it really counts so your family can get the most out of your boat and enjoy it for years to come.

www.sylvanmarine.com

Trifecta
Trifecta,
A Series Slam Dunk
The Trifecta Sport Aeries got a total facelift for 2022. From the re-designed fiberglass sport pods to the luxurious interior, down to the color-matched motors, this boat series is a slam dunk.

Trifecta has equipped its Sport Series with Wet Sounds Audio, the award-winning company they partnered with last year in their C and S Series of pontoons. They loved them so much they added them to the most high-end boat that Forest River Marine manufactures, the Sport.

This system includes three pairs of REVO 8’s, one pair of REVO 6’s, a pair of REV 8 tower speakers, one 6-inch amp and another 4-inch amp. The head unit that brings it all together is a MC-20 tied into their Murphy touchscreen.

The Sport series has a max horsepower rating of 900hp which gets you anywhere from 80 to 84 miles per hour stock on the water with twin Mercury 450R outboards.

www.trifectapontoon.com