Setting a new standard in mid-line boating with new trim package options, innovative layouts, upscale amenities, and a smooth ride, the Bennington 23SSB combines the crowd-pleasing features of the Bennington S-Series with a uniquely flexible Swingback seating layout.

With deep maroon rails and striking black accents, the stunning Bennington 23SSB marks a bold and refreshing change from a world awash in grey boats. When considered with its dynamic styling and signature bow sweep that gives the impression of speed even at the dock, this S Series Bennington showcases a beautifully modern design. Available in additional striking colors like Anthracite, Luminous Blue, Metallic Silver, and Orange Flare, your Bennington is sure to stand out on the water.

We recently had the chance to test a Luxe trim model of the Bennington 23SSB and were impressed with everything from the buttery-smooth vinyl seats and expansive layout to the helm’s crystal-clear Vivid UX display screen and the large front deck.

Family-Sized Comfort

With a 12-passenger capacity, this is a boat prepared to fit your whole family, a few friends, and even boat-loving neighbors who might ask for a ride. With plenty of storage both under the deck and in the console, you’ll have space for everything you need to enjoy the day out on the water. We measured the sizable in-floor ski locker at a spacious 8 feet in length and found it to be nicely finished inside, which consistently earns bonus points from us for finely tuned fit and finish. Each seat included storage, as well as a large area under the swing lounger in the stern to stow items.

The Luxe-styled furniture features lumbar support and high-back captain’s chairs. The soft-touch vinyl makes the chaise lounges exceptionally comfortable, and the Modesto Brown vinyl seating complements the newly available Red Sunset maroon exterior. We loved the recessed storage in each lounge, which included multiple cupholders and plenty of places to stash your phone and sunglasses.

The multi-position swing lounger at the stern allows you to sit either forward or rear-facing, and you can flip your seating orientation mid-cruise—ideal for sunbathing, watersports, socializing, or relaxing. With the welcome addition of the NMMA Innovation award-winning retractable keeper rail, you can ride rear-facing while underway. Another bonus we enjoyed about the layout was the table in the bow, which is ideal for a plate of appetizers or a quick game of slapjack or rummy, and can be easily tucked away when not needed.

Offered in a variety of lengths, the Bennington S Series is available in lengths from 16 to 26 feet. Our tested model was a comfortable 24 feet, with an inside usable deck space of just over 19 feet, so there was plenty of room to stretch out and relax.

Premium With Mid-Range Pricing

The Bennington S Series spans the mid-point between entry-level pontoons and Bennington’s highest-end lines. It offers attainable pricing without compromising on quality. Enjoy the renowned Bennington craftsmanship and a backed warranty for a fantastic experience on the water. Many dealers keep a 23 SSB in stock and highly equipped. Boat Trader shows strong demand for SSB models across various lengths, indicating that customers value their flexibility and premium detail.

Captivating Captain’s Seat

The sleek, ergonomic helm is streamlined and symmetrical, with everything needed for navigation easily within reach. Accessible controls and a Rockford Fosgate stereo with six well-placed speakers (two at the bow, two midship, and two at the stern) are ready and waiting to blast your best boating playlist.

But the pinnacle of the helm station is the standout Vivid UX touchscreen, standard on every Bennington model. We love how bright and clear this screen is to read, even on a hot summer day with the sun glaring. Ours included the upgrade to a 12-inch-wide screen, which provides a fantastic space to centralize all of the boat’s information in one convenient spot. With the addition of the new mapping feature, the Vivid UX System allows you to view all your gauges and location on one screen.

The Luxe trim model of our test boat included the leather-wrapped Katana steering wheel and two incredibly soft high-backed helm chairs—one for the captain and one for her best mate. Each chair slides, swivels, and reclines, with fold-down armrests and conveniently placed cupholders.

Smooth Sailing

Rough waters are no match for Bennington’s SPS (Sports Performance System) hull, the popular three-pontoon setup. With lifting strakes, a full splash skin, and a reinforced deck, our tested model handled well as we cut across the lake. Bennington’s premium construction includes reinforced, box-welded aluminum tubes, full-height panels, and multi-chambered pontoons to ensure safety and stability.

Powered by either Mercury or Yamaha outboards (up to 250hp), the Bennington SSB comes with hydraulic power-assist steering and an optional Rough Water package for enhanced handling. We found the SSB easy and fun to drive, thanks to its incredibly smooth electric steering. Our test boat took sharp corners and even had a small bank in the turns. We reached a maximum speed of 38mph and made it from 0 to 20 in just 5 seconds. Already equipped with a ski/tow bar and the Easy Step Revo boarding ladder from LilliPad Marine, this Bennington has the perfect setup for water sports. Other comfort amenities, such as a power Bimini, ensure you’ll have a comfortable day out on the water.