As a photographer, seeing a brand new 2013 yellow deck boat parked in the slip waiting to be photographed was a beautiful sight. There is just something about bright yellow boats that are enjoyable to photograph. Of course, then I raised the engine compartment and discovered the 5.0L MerCruiser MPI engine and knew my day was off to a great start.
Besides the color and the powerful 260hp engine, it’s the versatility of the Tahoe 215 Xi that I like most about this beautiful deck boat. And at just over $35K, you can’t help but appreciate the value offered as well.
Benefits
Deck boats combine the best features of conventional hull boats and pontoon boats to create a versatile and comfortable crafts that are ideal for fishing, skiing, touring and general fun on the water. The Tahoe 215 Xi offers luxury, style and performance in a roomy craft that can be either a fishing boat or a platform for family fun at the lake.
For anglers, there are two comfortable fishing chairs that can be moved between fore and aft pedestals, as well as starboard, under-the-gunwale rod storage and an aerated bow livewell with a pump-out system. The bow is also wired for the trolling motor of your choice.
Power
The versatility doesn’t end there. With two people onboard running the numbers, we nearly hit the half-century mark at full throttle. That’s after experiencing a very quick and impressive time of 6.3 seconds to go from a dead stop to 20 miles per hour. But this versatile Tahoe is more than just a go-fast thrill ride; with the deep V hull we were able to carve up some sharp turns, which of course put smiles on our faces.
Onboard
The plush seating for up to 12 passengers can be found in the chairs as well as the lounges that are upholstered in sun- and water-resistant material. A color-coordinated, acrylic bimini top sets off the design and provides shade on those hot summer days. It also features a drop-down changing curtain so passengers have the option to change into or out of swimwear. Also worth noting, the anodized aluminum frame has quick-release hardware.
There’s a port-side refreshment center with a sink, sprayer and freshwater reservoir that I really like. For a good all-around family boat, a setup like this is a must. The starboard console features a tinted windscreen, easy-to-read instruments and gauges and has a built-in stereo AM/FM CD player with an MP3 player jack. Plus it’s Sirius Satellite Radio ready. Passengers can dance on the deck to the high-quality sound from the four 60-watt speakers, and there’s plenty of room to dance aboard the 215 Xi.
Added Touches
In-floor storage provides room for skis, wakeboards or a trolling motor. Comfort and convenience features are plentiful, like the nine stainless steel drink holders that are strategically located throughout the boat. Plus there’s a removable table for onboard dining or other uses. Interior courtesy lights are standard equipment and there’s a 12-volt outlet for keeping cell phones, music players and other equipment charged.
The bow platform features a durable non-skid surface and has an anchor locker below. There is also a bow boarding ladder. Stainless steel mooring cleats and grab rails make docking and boarding safe and easy.
The 36-gallon fuel tank is ample for long weekends on the water with the buyer’s choice of MerCruiser inboard engines. The 215 Xi comes in a variety of color schemes including the citron yellow that we tested, as well as black cherry, victory red, onyx or blueberry.
The list of standard features is quite impressive, but for those looking to perfectly customize the 215 Xi to fit their needs there is also a lengthy list of options features as well including a wakeboard tower.
With this Tahoe 215 Xi it’s all about versatility and power and once you get it away from the dock, you won’t want to come back.
