Every year, we meet up with some of the top manufactures in the pontoon and deck boat world to test their newest models. All of these reviews are compiled in a special Boat Test issue that comes out during the first part of the year. We are going to start previewing some of the best 2012 models each Monday here at http://www.pdbmagazine.com/. Enjoy!
Silver Wave 250 Play
Our First Impression
You'd never guess the Silver Wave line was just recently created back in 2010 based on how these boats look and perform. In a short amount of time this manufacturer has established itself with the veterans in the industry, but of course the secret is this company has been building other types of quality boats for 20 years. Either way, we were excited to test one of these new Silver Wave boats for the first time at our Shootout.
Consumer Test
This Silver Wave looks like the answer to a riddle: How many comfortable seats can you fit on one pontoon boat? With an impressive five lounge seats onboard, there is truly a comfortable seat for everybody. However, the two in the stern will probably be the most coveted. Besides offering a great view, there is also plenty of storage options under these rear lounges including a hidden pop-up changing room that stands 6 feet tall when opened.
The storage compartments are all well-finished inside and the in-floor ski locker, which is 16-inches deep and over six feet long with an automatic bilge pump, is fully lined with carpet. Another added touch is the LED-lit cupholders, which we stopped counting when we reached a dozen. We can only imagine what this boat must look like at night when all the extra lights are lit up.
Outside the stern gate is a great-looking swim platform, complete with a five-step boarding ladder, Comfort-Step padded synthetic teak flooring and there is even a stereo remote. Plus, we have to mention the large ski/tow bar that should get a lot of use with that Suzuki 250hp SS outboard on the back.
At the helm is an attractive-looking console that flows with the overall design of the boat and the dark tan color matches perfectly with the furniture accent colors. The lighted rocker switches are well-labeled and overall the helm station earned high marks for quality and design.
Inspection Test
Three 25-inch diameter round pontoons with lifting strakes on the insides of the outside pontoons and on both sides of the center tube are the base for this 25-footer. The weld quality is above average and there is a full-length splash skin. The hat-shaped cross-members are bolted to the plywood deck and are mounted on 24-inch centers overall and on 8-inch centers near the transom for added support.
Built to last, this boat earned high marks by our inspection crew for fit and finish work as well as for an overall safe design. The gate hinges are pre-made to keep a half-inch gap to eliminate pinched fingers, which we love to see. We did note some mood lighting issues on this particular model, but overall the craftsmanship on this boat received high marks.
Performance Test
Cruising around in this Silver Wave had us humming the song "Ain't Goin' Down 'Til the Sun Comes Up" by Garth Brooks because there is just something about this 250 Play model that is just fun to drive. Of course, that might have a little something to do with the Suzuki 250 SS power plant in the back that had us flirting with the 50 mile per hour mark. As for the 0 to 20 mph time of 4.6 seconds, yeah that's fast! She turns well and is very responsive and we had a lot of fun cruising around "testing" the sound system.
Who Should Buy It
For those looking to take their family outings to the next level, the Silver Wave 250 Play is worthy of a closer look. From the loaded amenities to the well-thought features, this pontoon has a little something for everyone.
Why We Love This Boat
Great stereo, five lounge chairs and plenty of places to keep your drinks on ice, this `toon will appeal to a lot of people.
Just Being Picky
As much as we like the in-floor ski locker, having carpet inside where a lot of wet tubes tend to go could be an issue down the road as far as ventilation is concerned.
Notable Standards
Large 25-inch diameter pontoons, 50-gallon transom fuel tank, double-bolted cross-members, ss cleats, quick-release bimini, 32-ounce carpet, rear-entry ladder, teak style swim platform, reclining helm chair, 2 chaise lounges, changing room, entertainment station with cooler, Comfort-Step padding for floor, 2 rear lounges, 12-volt outlet, full instrumentation and Sony stereo.
Options on the Test Boat
Stainless propeller, in-floor storage, Deluxe package that includes a ski/tow bar, courtesy rope lighting, removable cupholders, 2 extra speakers, ottoman, lighted cupholders, accessory pouch and Sony stereo remote at swim platform.
Vital Stats & Info
Number of Occupants - 12
Price As Tested With Power - $52.9K
Maximum Speed - 49.3 mph
Wild Ponies - 250hp
No. of Gates - 3
0-20 MPH - 4.6 seconds
Ladder Steps - 5
Ladder Depth - 3' 10"
LOA - 25' 6"
Beam - 8' 6"
Hull Design - 3 Pontoons
Dry Weight - 2,400 lbs.
Fuel Capacity - 50 Gallons
Tallest Rail Onboard - Stern 26.5"
Shortest Rail Onboard - Bow 26"
Changing Room Height - 6'
Test Drive
RPM vs. SPEED vs. D-A
600 3.2 mph 79
1000 5.2 mph 74.5
1500 6.8 mph 84
2000 10.1 mph 89
2500 14.5 mph 92
3000 18.6 mph 93.5
3500 21.9 mph 94.5
4000 25.5 mph 97
4500 31.3 mph 100
5000 36.9 mph 100.5
5500 44.8 mph 103.5
6000 49.3 mph 101.5
PRICE
Price As Tested $52,931
(Boat and Motor)
Base Price
(Boat Only) $32,100
Seminole, Okla.
405-382-0349
www.silverwavepontoons.com
Don't forget to check out the video of the test:
http://www.pontoon.net/boat-news/video.cfm?id=2959&flag=1&StartRow=2 