Press Room

OUR FIRST IMPRESSION

Plush is the best way to describe the look and feel of the furniture layout on this boat.  We love the very inviting sculpted and contour seats.  And not only does this give the boat a high-end feel, the taller seat backs and extra tall rails make this a sake and family-friendly craft as well.

CONSUMER TEST

Less is more, or at least that’s the case with the helm console TRACKER went with a simplified look that we really like.  The luxurious-looking helm includes a multi-function gauge, 12-volt outlet with its own compartment, Sony CD stereo and a digital depth finder.

The overstuffed-looking seats are what top-of-the-line pontoons are supposed to be like.  The furniture comfort is as good as it looks and we really like the three chaise lounges.  Below each chaise is a lockable storage unit, and in the portside bow compartment there is actually room for skis and even two fishing poles.  We love that the first-mate chair is just as comfortable as the helm chair, and both slide, swivel and recline.  There is a nice, wide side gate, but the chair has to be positioned just right so the gate doesn’t hit it when it opens.

Below the thick-padded, three-quarter sundeck is an average-sized changing room.  To gain access, just pull on the two side straps, and once the enclosure is open you’ll find the battery box that doubles as a bench seat.

The rear-entry gate is one of three openings onboard, and each lift and lock gate also has a positive latch as an added safety measure.  What we really like is the carpeted stern swim deck and the four-step rear boarding ladder that has good handholds for easy entry.

Other notable features include plenty of drink holders (over 15)and the entertainment center behind the captain’s chair that includes a sink and faucet as well as sliding drawers below.  Everywhere we looked we found amenities that we liked.

INSPECTION TEST

Three 26-inch diameter pontoons are the base of this 26 footer and it’s part of the SUN TRACKER XP3 performance package that is only available on its outboard versions.  The performance strakes are on the inside and outside of the center log, as well as on the inside of the other two pontoons.  The C-channel cross-members are on 24-inch centers and are screwed to the plywood deck.

Up top there is over 19 feet of usable deck space inside the bow gate to the rear bench seat.  The Rotocast seat bases are screwed to deck while the delm stand is through-bolted.  The wiring under the helm is bundled and well-protected, earning this boat high marks for its construction and fit and finish work.

PERFORMANCE TEST

With Sea Star hydraulic steering, this boat is very responsive and easy to drive.  She has strong acceleration, and with the Mercury 200 Verado we reached a top speed of 40 miles per hour at full throttle.  She turns flat and we were pleasantly surprised by how sharp we could take corners without losing any power.  We did note some vibration at idle, but it’s nothing to be overly concerned about.  We loved the smooth and comfortable ride that this pontoon has to offer.

WHY SHOULD BUY IT

This Party Barge has plenty to offer in the way of high-end comfort with its plush contour seating and overall style.  This is a very inviting and attractive-looking boat that provides a lot of amenities.  Plus it’s well-built and very family-friendly.

Pontoon & Deck Boat Magazine – 2010 Boat Test Issue