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2023 Shootout Boat Test Edition typography
Year of the Twins: You Need to be Sitting Down for This typography
What's a Sportyacht? (and Why You're Going to Want One) typography
All About the Versatility: Evolution of the Multi-Purpose Layouts typography
2023 Shootout
UPGRADE YOUR PONTOON BOAT
With innovative solutions from Teak Isle and Boat Outfitters
The innovative storage and table solutions from Teak Isle are customizable for pontoon OEM builders. Boat Outfitters offers dealers wholesale discounts on products designed and manufactured by Teak Isle that are standard on many pontoon brands as replacements or enhancements. Contact us for more information.
storage table with glasses, bottles, and snacks
storage cup holders
storage drawer and compartment
cup holder tray with bottle, phone, and can holders
gray storage tray with holders for crackers, small beer cans, and champagne bottles
storage trays for two sliver bowls
tan storage tray with two cup holders and a plate of crackers
storage bin for trash
small and large storage file cabinets
storage table with glasses, bottles, and snacks
storage cup holders
storage drawer and compartment
cup holder tray with bottle, phone, and can holders
gray storage tray with holders for crackers, small beer cans, and champagne bottles
storage trays for two sliver bowls
tan storage tray with two cup holders and a plate of crackers
storage bin for trash
small and large storage file cabinets
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Editorial

Executive Editor Brady L. Kay
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HARRIS PUBLISHING GROUP ADMINISTRATION

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By Brady L. Kay

Captain’s Chair
“With limited actual boat knowledge, I was of course just the scribe with the clipboard for the on-trailer test, not even the one who got to hold the tape measure.”
Brady L. Kay sitting in the drivers seat of a boat

THE GIFT OF KNOWLEDGE

At the time I felt I was being punished and you couldn’t convince me otherwise. If not a cruel punishment, then at the very least some sort of rookie hazing or initiation for the new guy. For my first Shootout Boat Test assignment – well over 20 years ago – I got stuck doing the on-trailer inspection part of our test, which meant I spent my entire week in the parking lot while everyone else was down at the docks.

In my eyes it was absolutely the worst job I could be assigned. From my remote work station I could see the rest of the PDB magazine staff constantly leaving the docks and heading out on Lake Dora for the more exciting parts of our test, while I sweated it out in the parking lot in the Florida heat.

Avalon Boat on the water
Avalon Pontoons
2785 Excalibur Elite Windshield (ELW)
Price
  • Price as Tested$217,097
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$204,589
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
Truly loaded with amazing features, there is a lot packed into this 27-footer that may change your expectations of what a high-end luxury model should be.
Just being picky…
Not a big deal, but we’d like to see a locking glove box at the helm for the captain to secure loose items such as wallets and keys while underway.
Alma, Mich.
800-334-2913
www.avalonpontoons.com
First Take

There are anniversaries and then there are milestone anniversaries, and clearly Avalon understands the best way to celebrate a big one. The Michigan-based manufacturer is celebrating its first 50 years in the pontoon industry with the release of its latest Excalibur, and “stunning” is the best way to sum it up in one word.

Barletta Boat
Barletta
Lusso L25M
Price
  • Price as Tested$169,296
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$118,500
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
The long list of standard features is impressive, but it’s the little touches found on this boat that you can’t truly appreciate until you’re on the water that make it unique.
Just being picky…
With the need to plug in our phones being high these days and an extra spot at the helm already available, a second wireless charger would be nice to at least offer as an option.
Bristol, Indiana
574-825-8900
www.barlettapontoonboats.com
First Take

High-end luxury is something Barletta takes very seriously and the best example of its commitment to building a model worthy of its top-of-the-line reputation is this all-new Lusso. From the exterior rails and panels with stainless accent pieces to the thoughtful standard features to make time on the water better, this Barletta will amaze you.

Bennington 26 LX Sport Fastback on lake
Bennington
26 LX Sport Fastback
Price
  • Price as Tested$138,057
(Boat & Engine)
Why we love this boat…
From the overall color scheme to the plush seating, there is a lot to love about this 26 LX that as tested with all the options and upgrades makes a lot of sense.
Just being picky…
There is a lot of extra space in front of the first mate chair that we’d like to see filled a little better or at the very least a wider port gate.
Elkhart, Indiana
574-264-6336
www.benningtonmarine.com
First Take

Brand-new for 2023, the LX Sport Line is being launched as the top of Bennington’s L Series and it clearly made a great first impression with our crew.

Bentley Legacy 223 Swingback
Bentley
Legacy 223 Swingback
Price
  • Price as Tested$53,452
(Boat & Engine)
Why we love this boat…
It’s all about the versatility and this Swingback provides multiple ways to get the most out of the boat including the helm chairs, pop-up table and swingback seating.
Just being picky…
It’s a good-looking helm console with room to add a digital map or touchscreen if desired, but we would like to see some type of locking glove box built into the console.
Lexington, South Carolina
803-391-3000
www.bentleypontoons.com
First Take
At a time when prices ranging from gas to groceries is souring, it’s never been more important to the boating industry to have value-driven models. In order to keep the pontoon segment growing, we need quality, budget-friendly boats and this is where the Legacy 223 Swingback from Bentley comes in.
Godfrey Monaco 235 Split Bench
Godfrey Monaco
235 Split Bench
Price
  • Price as Tested$92,286
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$41,285
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
The combination of the overall color scheme and the floor plan that includes a “back porch” are just two qualities that make this boat attractive to a variety of buyers.
Just being picky…
Great storage options including under the helm, but we’d like to see some type of a glove box to store those smaller items such as keys and wallets.
Elkhart, Indiana
574-522-8381
www.godfreypontoonboats.com
First Take
Godfrey Marine has an impressive range of models across several different lines and this Monaco is no exception. The lineup is only a couple of years old, yet it’s backed by a manufacturer who’s been building quality boats for more than 60 years and it’s clearly making a name for itself with its latest offering.
Joystick docking
for any pontoon boat
Retractable Bow Thruster
Retractable Bow Thruster
Outboard-Mounted Stern Thruster
Outboard-Mounted Stern Thruster
Wireless Joystick & Keyfob Control
Wireless Joystick & Keyfob Control
Joystick docking
for any pontoon boat
Retractable Bow Thruster
Retractable Bow Thruster
Outboard-Mounted Stern Thruster
Outboard-Mounted Stern Thruster
Wireless Joystick & Keyfob Control
Wireless Joystick & Keyfob Control
family on their boat
Feel the Freedom. Not the Stress. typography
Dock your dual or triple tube pontoon boat simply and efficiently

Move sideways, diagonally, or rotate in place

Easy DIY installation • $5,695 for the complete kit

Sideshift logo
866-983-6313
Godfrey Sanpan 2700 SBW Twin
Godfrey Sanpan
2700 SBW Twin
Price
  • Price as Tested$280,264
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$125,745
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
For those in the market for a high-end dream pontoon, take notice of this Sanpan that performs extremely well and is loaded with some amazing features.
Just being picky…
With a capacity rating of 16, the pontoon should come standard with a trash can that is easily accessible for those nice long days out on the water.
Elkhart, Indiana
574-522-8381
www.godfreypontoonboats.com
First Take

It’s okay to toss around accolades such as “dream boat” when referring to this Sanpan from Godfrey Marine because it truly is an amazing high-end beauty that’s absolutely loaded with features you might not even realize are available on a pontoon.

Harris Grand Mariner 230
Harris
Grand Mariner 230
Price
  • Price as Tested$195,613
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$118,097
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
The lighted Ion tower, color scheme and cool upgrades such as the joystick controls and amazing sound system set this boat apart.
Just being picky…
The fiberglass bow maximizes the sporty look, but it doesn’t leave a lot of extra room to board since it’s close to the edge of the front deck.
Fort Wayne, Indiana
260-432-4555
www.harrisboats.com
First Take
While Harris considers its elite Crowne series to be its top-of-the-line model, the luxurious DNA clearly carries over to the extremely high-end Grand Mariner. Feature-rich, this boat is loaded with unique amenities, extremely comfortable seating and packaged as tested for a great day on the water.
Hurricane FunDeck 2360 SFL
Hurricane
FunDeck 2360 SFL
Price
  • Price as Tested$92,386
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$69,191
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
The plush seating doesn’t disappoint; it’s as comfortable as it looks. Plus the performance as well as the features make it a great all-around boat.
Just being picky…
There are three 12-volt outlets but only one USB port so it might be nice to add a couple more USB plugs so everyone can stay charged up while out for the day.
Elkhart, Indiana
574-522-8381
www.hurricaneboats.com
First Take
Yes, it is possible to experience the performance of a fiberglass deck boat while also enjoying the space and amenities of a pontoon. This latest FunDeck with stylish new furniture and helm console is all the proof you need since it was designed for boaters who want to have it all.
Hurricane SunDeck 2600
Hurricane
SunDeck 2600
Price
  • Price as Tested$171,982
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$106,092
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
It’s a completely loaded deck boat with too many thoughtful amenities to list that has been designed to make your time on the water the most enjoyable possible.
Just being picky…
There is an unbelievable amount of storage space on board, yet this boat could use a specific and designated area just for a trash can to help keep the interior clean.
Elkhart, Indiana
574-522-8381
www.hurricaneboats.com
First Take

Talk about sensory overload… we were absolutely blown away by all the features on board this 26-footer that quite possibly has more cool amenities per square inch than any other deck boat out there. It seemed the more we looked, the more we found – and the more we found, the more we loved.

JC TriToon Marine SportYacht 32 TT HTH
JC TriToon Marine
SportYacht 32 TT HTH
Price
  • Price as Tested$184,853
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$155,352
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
This amenity-rich pontoon was born to entertain. As is, it has what you need to host a party with way too many cool features to even begin to describe.
Just being picky…
The power Bimini has a rating for up to 55 miles per hour and what would really make it nice on a boat this long is a second one to keep more passengers shaded.
North Webster, Indiana
574-834-2881
www.jcpontoon.com
First Take
There are some risks involved when including “yacht” in a model name for a pontoon, but the manufacturer clearly backs it up with this fully-loaded 32-foot dream boat that is truly like nothing we’ve seen before.
Lowe SF 212 Walk-Thru
lowe
SF 212 Walk-Thru
Price
  • Price as Tested$46,810
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$38,475
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
For a boat geared toward a specific price point we’re very pleased with all this pontoon has to offer including an impressive setup for fishing.
Just being picky…
The USB and 12-volt outlets are a great addition to the helm, but we’d like to see them closer to the cell phone holder that’s directly across.
Lebanon, Missouri
800-641-4372
www.loweboats.com
First Take
With fishing being such an integral part of Lowe’s DNA, expectations were extremely high heading into our test of the SF 212 WT. This model has been redesigned for 2023 with new exterior fence, rails and an upgraded furniture package.
Qwest M-Class 8522 RLS - LTZ
Qwest
M-Class 8522 RLS – LTZ
Price
  • Price as Tested$120,617
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$63,564
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
With the color scheme, tower and the plug-and-play amenities, there is a lot going for this new M-Class model that will appeal to a wide variety of boaters.
Just being picky…
Plenty of storage below the seats, but with the tower and ski/bar we’d like to see an in-floor storage locker for your water toys be included in the standard features.
St. Louis, Michigan
989-681-4300
www.qwestpontoons.com
First Take
This M-Class series from Qwest is the real deal so it makes sense that it’s creating a lot of buzz in the industry. With the upper trim level package, it’s loaded with great features and fun amenities to make your time away from the dock even better.
Splendor 220 Katana I/O
Splendor
220 Katana I/O
Price
  • Price as Tested$84,937
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$80,146
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
The ride and stability of the catamaran hull is its biggest selling point, but the layout and features up top are just as impressive.
Just being picky…
A ski/tow eye is included, but a ski/tow bar or pylon really should come standard on a well-performing deck boat like this one.
Silver Lake, Indiana
574-598-2628
www.splendorboats.com
First Take
It really is amazing how much Splendor is able to pack into this 22-footer. While the hull and overall performance will rightly get a lot of attention, the quality, features and top-notch construction work should not be overlooked.
Starcraft SLS 3 Q DH
Starcraft
SLS 3 Q DH
Price
  • Price as Tested$87,110
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$50,070
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
This is a complete package with a nice blend of performance, style and a fully-loaded pontoon with the majority of the key features being standard.
Just being picky…
A specific and designated storage area just for a trash receptacle is something we’d like to see on this boat, but otherwise there is a lot going for this Starcraft.
New Paris, Indiana
574-831-2103
www.starcraftmarine.com
First Take
Starcraft is known for building pontoons that get noticed, but its latest flat-out demands you pay attention. From the black exterior rails and painted tubes to an inviting interior, this boat has a lot going for it as tested and we see a tremendous amount of added value being offered.
Profile view of Starcraft SVX in motion on water with blue sky and clouds
Starcraft
SVX 210 IO
Price
  • Price as Tested$72,592
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$64,130
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
Added value is what sets this boat apart from others. It has a lot going for it that makes it not only attractive to first-time buyers but to seasoned veterans as well.
Just being picky…
There are two USB ports, but with the popularity of cell phones this boat could use a couple more. Being able to plug in is just as important as a steering wheel for some families.
New Paris, Indiana
574-831-2103
www.starcraftmarine.com
First Take
Sleek and classy were the first two words that came to mind when we first stepped on board. This latest offering from Starcraft is designed to hit a specific price-point, yet still offer just the right amount of key features to get you out on the water with plenty to enjoy.
SunCatcher boat
SunCatcher
Elite 324 SS
Price
  • Price as Tested$141,196
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$103,052
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
Clearly a modern vibe to a layout that takes full advantage of the latest technological advancements for an updated and great all-around offering.
Just being picky…
While we love the look of the stainless stern gate, the design might be a little “too open” and it’s something to be aware of if you have younger children or small pets.
Lebanon, Missouri
417-588-9787
www.g3boats.com
First Take
It’s not a color combination that we haven’t seen before, yet there is just something about the red accent paired with the black exterior rails, skins and tubes that we just absolutely love. It’s truly a beautiful boat with a high-end vibe.
the SunChaser Geneva Sport 23 SB on water
SunChaser
Geneva Sport 23 SB
Price
  • Price as Tested$68,899
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$43,066
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
We call this Geneva a “box checker” because it’s a great all-around pontoon that brings a lot of value to the entry- and mid-level market.
Just being picky…
We’d like to see a lockable glove box at the helm for storing your smaller items such as keys and wallets. We get it, it’s all about keeping the price down, but this would be a nice addition.
New Paris, Indiana
866-772-4538
www.sunchaserboats.com
First Take

Are you ready to check some boxes? When shopping for a boat we all have a list of features we’d like to see and this brand-new model for 2023 has a lot going for it. It starts with the color scheme and how well it flows in harmony together. For example the standard black exterior rails with the blue graphic perfectly tie in with the accent colors on the seats. The boat is truly color-coordinated for a complete package and matches well with the optional Teak weave flooring.

the Sylvan Mirage X3 Party Fish on water
Sylvan
Mirage X3 Party Fish
Price
  • Price as Tested$67,334
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$42,758
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
Unless you’re a die-hard angler who fishes daily you should be able to appreciate how well hidden the fishing amenities are on this all-around great family boat.
Just being picky…
It is available as an option, but a fishing-specific model really should come standard with a FishFinder. The good news is there is a space at the helm if you want to add one yourself.
New Paris, Indiana
866-766-9698
www.sylvanmarine.com
First Take
Unless you were specifically looking for the fishing amenities, you might overlook them and instead just view this new Mirage X3 Party Fish as a really comfortable and great value-priced family model. That’s because Sylvan perfectly disguises its fishing features with this layout and that’s also probably what we like most about it.
the Tahoe 2585 Grand Tahoe LTD Twin Elite Windshield (ELW) on water
Tahoe
2585 Grand Tahoe LTD Twin Elite Windshield (ELW)
Price
  • Price as Tested$265,471
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$231,541
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
With so many key features being included there is a lot to love, but the power of twin 400hp outboards with the Waveglider hull is clearly the biggest highlight.
Just being picky…
The charging station in the bow is a great cubby to store your phone, but with a passenger rating of 14 this loaded high-end pontoon could really use a few more.
Alma, Michigan
800-334-2913
www.tahoepontoons.com
First Take
Magnificent and imposing in appearance, size or style is how the dictionary defines the word “grand,” so it’s easy to see how Tahoe came up with this model name. It truly is magnificent, plus having 800hp on the back is kind of grand too.
Front exterior view of Veranda V One boat
Veranda
V One
Price
  • Price as Tested$228,814
(Boat & Engine)
Why we love this boat…
The patented, all-aluminum, all-welded interlocking deck system doesn’t get nearly the recognition it deserves. This is truly a solid platform and an overall well-built pontoon.
Just being picky…
We’d like to see a locking glove box at the helm to secure those loose items. As is there isn’t really a good place to store your keys and wallets while you’re out on the water.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
866-554-5955
www.verandamarine.com
First Take
With its fiberglass exterior and Equinox power arch, at first glimpse it’s easy to see this modern pontoon is not like other traditional pontoons. Simply put, it has its own unique vibe that draws you in. Using fiberglass instead of aluminum exterior panels allows more creativity in the aesthetics featuring a combination of sweeping lines accented by crisp futuristic angles that host integrated docking and navigation lights into the bow.
Front exterior view of Viaggio Diamante 23S boat
Viaggio
Diamante 23S
Price
  • Price as Tested$124,425
(Boat & Engine)
  • Base Price$60,664
(Boat & Standard Engine)
Why we love this boat…
Well-built and feature rich, this beautiful pontoon has a nice mix of key standard features and what some might refer to as “must-have” upgrades that make the boat great.
Just being picky…
Love the first mate chair but it doesn’t leave a lot of extra room where it’s positioned when using the port gate. However, the trade-off is a chair that is just as comfortable as the helm one.
Bristol, Indiana
574-622-0490
www.viaggiopontoonboats.com
First Take
Overbuilt might just be the best way to describe Viaggio’s highest line of pontoons and the 3-inch rail around the perimeter is just one example of its dedication to building a quality, well-crafted, high-end boat.
By Brady L. Kay
Couldn’t
Do It Without You
Recognizing those who make our Shootout test possible
We’d like to recognize those who helped with our Shootout this year. A lot goes on behind the scenes of our annual boat test and there are plenty who helped make our event a success and deserve a little recognition.
Thanks—Boatmate & Thanks—BumperMate

For starters I want to put a spotlight on our two event sponsors: BoatMate Trailers and BumperMate USA. BoatMate has sponsored our event for the past five years now and we truly appreciate their support. The trailer manufacturer specializes in high-quality marine trailers that are ideal for these luxury pontoon boats we test. The quality and attention to detail that go into each and every trailer are truly impressive.

BumperMate USA was a new sponsor for us and there were plenty of pontoons that could have used its fender holders that are practical and keep fenders within reach at all times.

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Pontoon and Deck Boat
Thanks for reading our 2023 Shootout issue!