Our First Impression
It's easy to predict that with the proven PTX package and
the new Yamaha 250 SHO engine, the Grand Majestic is going to be a fun boat to
drive. But what you may not appreciate until you come aboard are the FlexSteel
seat bases and chairs, plus those hidden amenities that truly make this a
comfortable and a solid choice for family fun.
Consumer Test
One of the biggest challenges with reviewing a Premier
pontoon is staying under the strict word count. With so many great features and
amenities we often run out of room before we run out of praise. Starting with
the seating, Premier takes comfort to a new level by incorporating two
identical FlexSteel helm chairs on the portside bow that match the actual
captain's chair. As for the other seats onboard, we love that they're also made
by FlexSteel and include the exclusive Nano-Block vinyl for added durability.
The seven-inch raised platform only adds to the
attractive-looking helm that includes easy-to-read Faria gauges, a Humminbird
385ci unit and there is even a spot for a cell phone or iPod with a 12-volt and
MP3 jack.
Just forward of the helm is a well-hidden sink and electric
faucet in an enclosed compartment. Next to the sink is a paper towel holder
that is also well-hidden. Behind the helm is the optional "Freedom" galley that
includes a wine
convenience center, a second hand-pump faucet and sink and extra storage below.
Speaking of storage, the seven-foot long in-floor locker is a nice touch.
Below the sundeck is a very easy-to-use pop-up changing room
that includes a vented window, light, towel holder and even a mirror.
With this rear-entry design there is a swim platform in the
stern that includes a five-step ladder, and you can use the tall ski/tow bar as
a handhold for easy boarding. Worth noting is the optional synthetic teak
flooring in the bow and stern that really help with the luxurious feel of the
boat.
Inspection Test
Below deck the three pontoons with lifting strakes are the
base of this 25-footer. But what makes the hull design unique is the PTX
package that includes two 25-inch diameter pontoons with a center tube that is
36 inches wide with a 12-inch flat planing surface. This setup explains why the
boat turns like a v-hull model. The Z-shaped cross-members are on 16-inch
centers throughout and are fastened to the plywood deck. From the welding to
the wiring, the undercarriage inspection earned high marks for craftsmanship.
There is over 17 feet of usable space from inside the bow
gate to the rear bench.
Performance Test
We've been waiting to get our hands on the Yamaha 250 SHO
engine for quite awhile and our patience finally paid off. This Premier with
the PTX package was a great match for this new engine. We reached a top speed
of 42 miles per hour, but the most impressive stat is just how quickly she
reached the 20-mile-per-hour mark-just 4.36 seconds! Turning with this unique
hull is like a dream as we banked beautifully and carved up the water. The Grand
Majestic LTD earned a perfect fun factor rating based on how well she handles
and the fact we couldn't stop smiling.
Who Should Buy It
We sometimes get questioned on why performance is such a
large part of our overall Shootout score and the answer is simple: for boats like
this. When a pontoon can handle this well and be this much fun to drive, it really
needs to be recognized. There are a lot of potential buyers out there who need
to test drive this complete package.
Number of Occupants 12
Price As Tested With Power $75.1K
Maximum Speed: 42.5
mph
Wild Ponies: 250hp
No. of Gates 3
0-20 MPH 4.4
seconds
Ladder Measurement: 4'
deep
Why we love this boat.Performance,
luxury and style; this Grand Majestic LTD has it all and it's the little added
touches and hidden amenities that we've come to appreciate from this builder.
Just being picky.Inside padding on the gates and rails would
hide the exposed rivets that are kind of a turnoff for such a luxurious and
high-end model.
NOTABLE STANDARDS
Evolution
rails, bimini top, Flexsteel furniture, Royal helm w/command view platform, Sony
stereo w/4 Kicker speakers and a Humminbird 385ci color GPS.
OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT
The
36-inch PTX Performance Package, Sedona Berber 36-oz carpet, electric sink,
galley with wine convenience center, full enclosure w/double bimini, teak
flooring bow and aft, pillow package and optional D/L seating group w/2 bow
chairs.
VITAL STATS
LOA 25' 4"
Beam 8'
6"
Hull
Design PTX Package
Dry Weight 3,450 lbs.
Fuel Capacity 33
Gallons
TEST DRIVE
Engine Yamaha
VF250LA
Cylinder Type V6
Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower 254ci/250hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio 1.75:1
Propeller 14 1/4 X 17
RPM vs. SPEED
vs. D-A
600 2.9 mph 82
1000 4.2
mph 80
1500 6.1
mph 84
2000 7.0
mph 85.5
2500 8.3
mph 85.5
3000 11.1
mph 87.5
3500 18.5
mph 93
4000 20.1
mph 89
4500 25.2
mph 92.5
5000 29.5
mph 94.5
5500 34.9
mph 97
6000 40.3
mph 101.5
6200 42.5
mph 106.5
Wyoming, Minn.
Phone: 800-815-6392
Website: www.pontoons.com
