(Boat and Motor)
(Boat and Motor)
The secret to pontoon boats continuing to trend upward in the boating industry has a lot to do with well-priced offerings, such as this South Bay that doesn’t look or feel like an entry-level model.
Highlights
This limited-edition, limited-option line has been a huge taker over the last few years and it’s easy to see why. From the beginning, the LE line was intended as a solid choice for first-time buyers looking for an easy-to-order boat with high-end features not typically found on entry-level lines, such as a Scanstrut wireless phone charger at the helm that now comes standard on all Forest River models. In fact, for the 2022 model year, the entire helmstand has an overall new look with the throttle located closer to the driver so you no longer have to reach, plus an additional cupholder forward of the helm. Speaking of permanent cupholders, they are everywhere! There are nearly a dozen on board this 22-footer, and frankly, that’s quite impressive.
An optional Humminbird color GPS centers the symmetrical dash with dual multi-function analog gauges on each side. This is also where you’ll locate the Clarion stereo unit along with two rows of rocker switches.
The “RS” in the model name stands for rear seating, which translates to two rear-facing chaise lounges in the stern, plus plenty of comfortable places to sit for the up to 11 passengers this boat is rated for. In the stern is where your crew will want to be, but we’d also make a strong case for the plush reclining helm chair that is identical and directly across from the one for the captain. The seating in the bow is just as comfortable, but if we’re being picky, a backrest for the port bench seat would be nice, but as is, it provides a nice open layout.
Other key features include a thicker gauge Bimini frame, a four-step stainless steel telescoping boarding ladder and a matching ski/tow bar.
Inspection
Forest River Marine offers a variety of performance chassis options, and this particular model was upgraded to the 2.75 package, which includes a full 25-inch diameter center sport pontoon, aluminum underskin, lifting strakes and SeaStar hydraulic steering. Of course we also need to mention the Z42 chassis, which is 40 percent lighter and two times stronger than marine-grade plywood. The composite deck means zero wood, zero rot, zero seams and zero expansion/contraction! Up top the rail height is a safe and consistent height of 27 inches tall around the perimeter of the pontoon, helping to earn it a high family-friendly rating.
We went from 0 to 20 mph in less than 5 seconds, and at full throttle with the Mercury 115hp on the back, we topped out at over 30 mph. You could go as high as 150hp for a little extra speed, but as tested we like how the 115hp Merc handled this pontoon and love the pairing.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be a first-time buyer to appreciate a value-driven model. Designed and priced to get new people into boating, there is a lot that even a seasoned skipper will enjoy too. With an impressive list of standard features and just the right amount of options, this boat has a nice balance to it and is ready for a day on the water.
25-inch Tubes w/ Transom Upgrade, 28-gallon Direct Fill Fuel Tank in Motor Pod w/ Fuel / Water Separator, .090 Bimini Top Trailering Brackets, Bow Reinforcement Bumper and Continuous Extruded Aluminum Riser Brackets, iPod and Bluetooth Compatible Clarion GR108T MP3, 4 Clarion Speakers w/ Protective Inside Covers, Deutsch Waterproof Electrical Wiring Harness, Fish Rail Panels, Radius Deck w/ Integrated Deck Trim and Vinyl Rub Rail, Raised Logos, Reinforced Splash Fins, SS Cleats, SS Telescoping Ladder, Steel Framed Coated Mid-back Helm Chair w/ Arms and Seat Slider Pedestal, Stern SS Corners, Surlast 10-foot Color-matched Playpen Cover, Tachometer, Voltmeter, Fuel Gauge, Trim Gauge, 12-Volt Receptacle, Vinyl-wrapped Furniture Bases.
OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT
2.75 Package, Hummingbird Color GPS, 2 Portable Cupholders, LED Docking Lights.