It’s that time of year again when manufacturers are eager to get the word out on the new model pontoons and deck boats, as well as significant changes being launched in 2014. For those who can’t wait until boat show season, you’re in luck. The PDB editorial staff has collected the information for you and we’re excited to share it.
In the previous feature in this issue we highlighted the new Larson Escape pontoon line and feel it truly does deserve to be included in our report on the new models being released for the upcoming year. Those included in the section also have exciting news for the industry and that’s why we’ve included them in our game changers roundup.
Apex Marine
www.apexmarineinc.com
Apex Marine, manufacturers of Qwest, Paddle Qwest and Gillgetter pontoons, is heading in a greener direction for 2014. Optional for the new year are two different solar charging systems, one for the Paddle Qwest line and one for the Qwest and Gillgetter models, both with lithium battery systems.
These options will certainly give environmentally conscious owners peace of mind. The 190 watt solar charging feature can provide up to 2 hours of operation per day and can also mean the difference between getting home and calling for help during those precarious boating incidents. For boaters looking to save on burned up batteries, the lithium battery is safe and easy to recharge up to an astounding 3000 charges, comfortably powering the boat for years to come.
Aqua Patio
www.aquapatioboats.com
The performance-oriented Aqua Patio brand has added the new SLR package to its 220 and 240 models. With three oversized, media-room-style reclining lounges (one directly opposite the helm, and two more rear-facing seats) the SLR package is not only the pinnacle of pontoon comfort, but compartments directly behind the seat and in the arm rests provide ample storage. The arm rest storage compartments conceal stainless steel cup holders and these models feature rear bezels that can flip up to point the speakers aft toward the water. Also new for Aqua Patio in 2014 is matte-finish wood grain trim, an optional Garmin Echo Map chart plotter, aft refreshment center with sink option, and an all-new triple-tube design that increases outboard motor rating up to 350 horsepower.
The theme of the hugely successful Aqua Patio 250 wet bar layout has been refined and expanded for 2014 as well as the addition of a smaller wet bar model on the brand’s popular 220 platform. The redesigned AP 250 WB has an all-new bar base with molded in foot rest, side cooler tub and a raised solid surface bar top that houses new Nautic Global Group exclusive stainless steel ring cup holders, complete with an innovative LED-lit stemware holder built into the base of the design. The aft corner of the boat continues the flow of the bar with a new corner unit that has a stainless steel drawer/door combo and solid surface counters with a grill mount area. Next to this corner unit is a new motor shroud with an additional raised bar top and two speakers. Aqua Patio is also offering the popular "Grill Master" unit standard on these models, featuring a removable propane grill, sink with hand pump faucet and plenty of storage. Additional improvements for the Aqua Patio line include a new Nutmeg vinyl deck option and new metallic rail skin color options.
With one of the most distinctive entertaining areas you’ll see on any boat, the all-new Aqua Patio 240 CB features a head-turning center pub-style bar with four comfortable bar stools, a large prep/serve table and additional raised bar counter. The 240 also comes standard with a new Grill Master unit with a removable propane grill, sink with hand pump faucet and plenty of solid surface counter area and storage. A second rear canopy is provided for shading the entertainment area in addition to the main bimini top.
Avalon
www.avalonpontoons.com
Avalon is bringing new models to fruition for 2014 but some of the major changes have to do with its current lineup. Starting this model year, the curvaceous and tower-like solid aluminum sidewalls, stainless-steel grillwork and chrome accents that make up the company’s art deco package will be available on all boats except the promo series. The Michigan-based manufacturer has also expanded popular interiors, including quad loungers and fishing packages, into all models as options as well. When it comes to Avalon pontoons, they are still as luxurious as ever.
Bennington Marine
www.benningtonmarine.com
Bennington has been hard at work creating new and innovative options for 2014. For starters, a co-captains lounge has been made available for a great mid-ship seating option. Bennington has also created a hybrid top, which provides owners the aesthetics of a sport top without putting a Sport Tower or Sport Arch model into their budget. Also new for 2014 is a mid-ship bar which will be made available with two unique and different floor plans. Finally, Bennington has designed an extended bow deck, which comes standard on the Q, R and G series models and will be optional on the S series. The deck extends over the nose cones and gives an additional 8 inches of bow deck space.
Crest
www.crestpontoonboats.com
If you are familiar with the Savannah line by Crest then you know what a luxury boat looks like. More importantly, you know what a luxury boat feels like. And it’s only getting better.
Crest is launching the Savannah 250 NX SLR2 for 2014. This exciting new model joins the Savannah SS and Savannah S2 in the sport luxury category for Crest Marine.
What makes this boat fantastic is its performance that’s paired with breathtaking beauty. Savannah 250 NX SLR2 definitely sets the bar high in an industry known for innovation. The team at Crest Marine is looking forward to bringing it to the market and getting it in the hands of owners. The next NX to be introduced will be offered with the Crest Club seating.
Cypress Cay
www.cypresscaypontoons.com
The only company who offers a dual lounger with a center walk through on a 20-foot model, Cypress Cay is making waves by implementing some great changes throughout its entire lineup of quality pontoon boats.
The Cozumel is new from the rub rail up with brands new layouts, seating upholstery and an inspired helm design with an optional touch screen. The pillow top seating is very plush and doesn’t have a deep recess, so dirt can’t pile up.
The Cabana line and above has a completely redesigned chassis, which includes a new nose cone for improved spray deflection. The M brackets have also been implemented through the interior and exterior which means the boat won’t flex.
Across the board, Cypress Cay is offering a new ski/tow pylon which is rated for 400 pounds. Plus, the fishing package has been completely redesigned and is available as an option.
Forest River Marine
www.forestriverinc.com/marine
Forest River Maine, manufactures of the Berkshire, South Bay and Xcursion lines of pontoons, is proud to introduce the new Super Sport Package in the 500 South Bay line and in the Berkshire STS series. This Package consists of four bold color choices, which are black and kiwi, black and sagoon, black and orange and black and red. These new color schemes are also be available on the South Bay 900 Sport Series and the Berkshire Sport Series.
The Indiana-based manufacturer has also redesigned the dash panel to include a push button digital color display graph that includes trim, hour meter, fuel, tachometer and voltmeter gauges as a standard feature on the South Bay 500, 700 and 700 Deluxe Series. It’s also included on the Berkshire STS, Premium and Premium Ultra Series. And there is a new exterior panel color for 2014 called Pearl White.
As for the Xcursion line, Forest River has added a new optional interior accent scheme for 2014 called Diamond Deluxe Package.
G3 Boats
www.g3boats.com
G3 has three new pontoon models set to release in 2014. The Sun Catcher Elite 324 RS, X 22 RC and the Elite 325 C.
The new Sun Catcher Elite 324 RS by G3 Boats combines luxury, class and comfort with the superior performance and legendary reliability of a Yamaha engine. Designed as a high performance luxury pontoon, the Elite 324 RS comes in a variety of appealing colors. Built on three 23- by 25-inch diameter flotation filled U-shaped logs with lifting strakes, an all-aluminum motor pod and a full length performance shield, the Elite 324 RS is rated for a variety of motors including the powerful Yamaha 225 SHO.
Some of the standard features on the Elite 324 RS include an elevated custom fiberglass reinforced console with speedometer, tachometer, trim gauge and fuel gauge. Other amenities include marine grade vinyl flooring with a removable snap in carpet, luxurious fully adjustable captain’s chair, tilt wheel with hydraulic assisted power steering, soft touch chaise style lounge seating, twin rear facing lounger, two 12-volt accessory outlets, Sony digital media receiver, flush mount Garmin Echo Map 50s, starboard galley, blue LED lighting and a standard ski/tow pylon are just some of the standard features on the Elite 324 RS.
Harris FloteBote
www.harrisflotebote.com
Coming off a very successful year with the release of the latest Crowne version, Harris FloteBote examined every boat in its existing lineup and made all the changes necessary to make one the best it could.
Some of the general updates across the board include offering new ski/two bar and pylon options, new bimini quick release hardware, full enclosure options and seat slider mechanisms. The company has also made some updates to its fishing stations. While exact changes depend on the model, you can expect an aerated livewell and vertical rod holders, plus a ton of other key features.
Harris FloteBote has also created a new performance package option for 2014, which is available on its Solstic models and above. This package includes a full length center tube, lifting strakes, a rough water package and a 37 gallon fuel tank.
Plus, look for some really exciting news to be released next February at the Miami Boat Show, which PDB will include in a future issue.
Hampton Boats
www.hamptonpontoons.com
The Hampton line of pontoon boats from PlayCraft have been a great addition to the industry, mostly because of the innovation behind them. For years we’ve been enjoying the performance on the round-shaped pontoons on the Hampton line, but for 2014 the Missouri-based manufacturer is mixing it up a little. Have you ever seen rear-facing loungers on a deck boat? If you’ve caught a sneak peek of the new Hampton 2680 DRL then you have. This is just one example of what happens when you merge two styles of boats.
The deck boat hull, added to the traditional pontoon top, creates a well-performing hybrid that gives you the best of both the pontoon and the deck boat world. While Hampton will continue to manufacturer top-quality pontoon boats, it’s exciting to see the addition of this hybrid to its lineup.
Hurricane
www.hurricaneboats.com
Signaling an exciting new direction for one of the industry’s top-selling deck boat lines, Nautic Global Group has introduced the Hurricane SunDeck 2690. Billed as the brand’s new flagship, the 2690 features a number of clever innovations including an exclusive new running surface with the wider beam and forward-thinking construction techniques such as a fully integrated stringer system.
Built on a new hull developed by the widely respected C. Raymond Hunt Associates, the Hurricane SunDeck 2690 is a yacht-certified deck boat that’s 26 feet 4 inches overall length with a roomy 9-foot beam. That beam makes it possible to design a huge interior for entertaining with a standard cockpit refreshment center and galley, including solid countertops, a pressurized sink, and an optional drawer-style refrigerator. The extended beam also allows for a large enclosed head and an amazing amount of onboard storage. A unique stern boarding system offers from either port or starboard via twin swim platforms that converge into a wide center step into the cockpit. The 2690 is only being offered in outboard power and is rated for up to a 350hp engine.
JC Manufacturing
www.jcpontoon.com
JC Manufacturing has made some changes across the board for all of its existing models. One of the most noticeable changes is the addition of a thicker nose cone to every model to help protect the tubes better. Also, the Indiana-based manufacturer will no longer include vinyl flooring, but rather offer Seagrass flooring instead. Seagrass has proven to be a great product and customers love it. JC will also be adding a new shade of blue, called Indigo Blue Metallic to the already long list of panel color options.
Also worth noting, JC Manufacturing is bringing back the 226 TriToon Classic after several requests to put it back in their lineup.
Lowe Boats
www.loweboats.com
Don’t be surprised if the new Lowe deck boat causes you to do a double take when you first see it. For those used to seeing all-aluminum deck boats from this builder, the new Victory 220 and 224 models may catch you off guard. Is it aluminum or is it fiberglass? Being part of the Brunswick line of boats means Lowe has access to other great manufacturers like Sea Ray and Bayliner, so the new Sport Deck line is actually both. With these new models you get the same proven aluminum hull on the bottom with an all-new fiberglass top. The “best of both worlds” approach is sure to turn some heads this summer.
The 22-foot Victory 220 includes an 8-foot, 6-inch beam, a 14 degree deadrise with a transom height of 20-inches. Rated for up to 19,000 pounds or 10 people, it will be easy for everyone to get comfortable on this new deck that comes standard with a Fusion Marine stereo, chrome accented steering wheel, two bow lounges and a rear-facing port lounge.
As for its value-driven line of pontoons, the SS and SF economy line has made some changes as well. Just because your wallet might be running on empty it doesn’t mean you have to settle for less quality. There is a new darker tan base vinyl color available as well as a new outside rails with simplified chrome logos to add to the look of the Lowe pontoon.
Manitou
www.manitouboats.com
With everybody looking for the most comfortable and versatile boat, manufacturers have been continuously on the hunt for new and innovative ways to make their boats more and more of a luxury cruise. Manitou has engineered the rear loungers in its SRS floor plan into optional table groups to provide boaters with more versatility than ever before. This particular floor plan will also be available for Manitou's Legacy models as well and will surely change the way owners experience their boats in 2014.
Montego Bay
www.montegobaypontoons.com
Montego Bay debuted in 2013 and the company is very excited about how last year went. For 2014, the manufacturer has all new plastic, furniture and consoles on all its models and are continuing with its eight diverse models and floor plans.
NauticStar
www.nauticstarboats.com
Drawing from the resources of its expertise of manufacturing bay boats, off-shore boats and family-style deck boats, NauticStar, LLC introduces its all new innovative design 243DC Sport Deck. Following the same design strategy as the 223DC that was introduced last year, the 243DC merges deck boat style and spacious interior with the ride and drive of a vee hull runabout.
The 243DC is over 24 feet long and is rated for up to 300 horsepower. Fuel capacity is 66 gallons and passenger capacity is 12. Boarding is made easy with the molded-in stainless steel ladder and walk thru transom. An optional transom shower at the aft swim platform is available too. The rear-entry seat flips up and out of the way so you don’t step on the upholstery, which is a feature we’ve be noting for years. There is also storage under the rear-entry seat for your battery and other gear. The interior in the cockpit forms a U-shape area beginning with two unique chaise seats with removable backrests. The seats face aft, making the perfect location to watch the kids while they are tubing and skiing.
Premier
www.pontoons.com
Across the board, many new changes have been made to the Premier line of pontoons for the upcoming model year. These improvements range from corner castings with built-in lights to all-new helm and furniture designs. There is even a new space-saving changing room that’s big enough to use when needed, but hides perfectly in one of the bow lounge chairs when you don’t. Premier calls this it’s Mirage changing room; we call it a good use of space. And the new aluminum arch that looks like fiberglass and complete with a skylight and bimini top on the Intrigue line is also worth noting. The added style (as well as function with the ski pylon on top) help give this ‘toon a very distinctive look.
But one new option that has the Minnesota-based manufacturer excited is the new Optimus Take Command joystick docking controls from BRP. This optional upgrade makes docking a breeze and it will be highlighted in our annual Shootout Boat Test issue.
But arguably the biggest news was the release of the S-Series that features dual raised helm stands with windshields, plus dual Becon touch screens. This allows the first mate full access to the stereo and other key features like the backup camera. When the first mate sees the skier fall while watching the screen, the driver can be alerted by pushing a button that will instantly flash “skier down” on the captain’s screen. If your first thought is to question this boat’s ability to pull a skier, it’s clear you’ve never been on a Premier with its performance PTX package that allows this pontoon to dive into corners. Plus with the Evinrude 300hp on the back, speeds over 40 mph make this boat a thrill ride like no other.
Princecraft
www.princecraft.com
Princecraft is starting out 2014 with a brand new series called the Quorum. The company has launched it as a mid-range pontoon. However, depending on the options you choose to add, the boats starts to resemble the Vogue, which is the high-end series made by Princecraft. At first glance, you can easily distinguish the Quorum from the Vogue by the fencings.
With the Quorum Series, Princecraft has made a ton of improvements, including a better driver seat and better cup holders. On the Quorum 25 SE, there's a bar in the aft section including a corner module and four bar stools.
The Quorum comes standard with several features including color-coordinated convertible buggy bimini top, quick-release bimini top latches and traveling struts and navigation lighting. The series also features a V-shaped aluminum engine pod, pressure-treated wood deck covered with marine grade carpet and extruded aluminum full-length pontoon keels and skirting.
Sanpan
www.sanpanboats.com
Expanding on its reputation as one of the industry’s true ultra-luxury pontoon brands, Sanpan has created an entirely new deck layout utilizing three wide, comfortable reclining seats. Offered in both the 2200 and 2500 platforms, the SLR packages feature entirely new extra-wide reclining lounges, one directly opposite the helm, and two more rear-facing seats, all covered in Sanpan’s luxurious soft-touch, pleated vinyl.
Full seat adjustments allow guests to find their perfect comfort angle and the compartments directly behind the seat and in the arm rest provide ample storage. The arm rest storage compartments conceal stainless steel cup holders and the 2500 SLR features rear speaker bezels that can flip up to face the speakers aft toward the water.
Also new for Sanpan in 2014 is a beautiful new stay-cool vinyl decking, stylish matte-finish wood grain accents, standard Bluetooth-enabled Sony stereo systems and a new optional aft refreshment center with sink and pressurized water system.
Starcraft
www.starcraftmarine.com
Starcraft has created a variety of improvements to its line of pontoons that will surely change the way boaters experience the water. In 2014, Starcraft will introduce an upgraded HMX performance tube system with improved and strategically placed strakes and a third tube. Re-engineered to improve lift out of the water, give a sizable increase in speed and ensure tight, smooth cornering, The HMX performance system will re-enforce why Starcraft is one of the best pontoons on the water today. The HMX performance system will be a standard feature on the new SLS series, which includes the SLS3 and SLS5 models.
Also available is the new Starcraft SCX 211 OB deck boat. Using Starcraft's dihedral V-hull with pickle fork decking, the SCX 211 OB gives owners the space and luxury of a deck boat with the unparalleled handling of a runabout. With the SCX loaded with a myriad of standard features and the ability to add the LS package, the SCX 211 OB is the perfect choice for the boater who wants it all.
SunChaser
www.sunchaserboats.com
Every boat in the SunChaser lineup has had various aesthetic and strength modifications implemented for 2014, with the Classic and DS models receiving a new standard console with a full compliment of gauges and upgraded furniture. The new Classic 8522 Entertainer implements the Classic 8522 Cruise and Fish's back fishing station, which can now be transformed into a bar with three bar stools and a cooler. So whether you're looking to spend a day with your line in the water, or you're entertaining some friends with some ice cold refreshment, the Entertainer has everything you need. Plus SunChaser now gives owners the luxury of adding the Performance Tube System (PTS) to their package, which will include a third tube that will be available at an affordable price.
SunTracker
www.suntrackerboats.com
Sun Tracker has several new models for the upcoming year including the Regency 254 DLX XP3 that offers yacht-like luxury and performance, and cruising with a rear view.
The XP3 designation stands for Extra Performance, thanks to the boat’s unique three-log configuration with strakes on every log. The three 26-inch diameter pontoons provide extra lift, speed and control for the full array of tow sports not usually associated with pontoon boats. Of course, the resulting smooth-riding performance is rather nice for just cruising too.
The helm station is a captain’s dream; it’s elevated for better visibility and equipped with a reclining chair, tilt hydraulic steering and a Lowrance Elite 5 color depth finder with chartplotter and GPS.
Other new models for 2014 include the Fishin’ Barge 22 DLX that has new styling upgrades inside and out. Built for comfort and function, this versatile pontoon boat provides upgraded, plush furniture throughout for lounging (including an aft sundeck) and yet has all of the key angler features for those who want to spend the entire day fishing. The boat’s exterior also sports a new dressed up look.
The new three-pontoon Party Barge 24 DLX XP3 delivers luxury, comfort and performance in style. Sun Tracker Signature Series pontoon boats are known for bringing performance, design and function together in one beautiful package. And for 2014, the Party Barge 24 DLX XP3 continues the tradition in this roomy pontoon that’s big enough for the entire family and more.
The Party Barge 22 DLX gets a face change for the new model year with new rear-facing lounge and other upgrades. The latest family-friendly Party Barge is better than ever and now features an aft rear-facing lounge, allowing reclining in style to have a perfect view of the action off the swim platform.
And finally, the Sun Tracker Party Barge 24 DLX turns heads and its rear seats. “New” is definitely the theme of the changes to the popular Party Barge 24 DLX for 2014. There’s a new aft port rear-facing lounge with pop-up changing room and storage. There’s a new aft starboard rear-facing lounge. All of the boat’s upholstery has been upgraded to a new marine grade, UV-resistant 26-ounce base vinyl with multiple densities of foam. And the boat’s new AM/FM stereo system is Bluetooth-capable stereo with MP3 and USB ports and four speakers
What hasn’t changed is this Signature Series pontoon boat’s roomy and all-purpose versatility.
Sweetwater
www.sweetwaterboats.com
Sharing a completely new seating concept with its luxurious siblings Sanpan and Aqua Patio, the Sweetwater has added the new SLR package to its Premium Edition 240 model. With three oversized, media-room-style reclining lounges (one directly opposite the helm, and two more rear-facing seats) the SLR package is not only the pinnacle of pontoon comfort, but compartments directly behind the seat and in the arm rests provide ample storage. Also new for Sweetwater in 2014 is a head-turning optional rail graphic, new helm design with optional raised helm platform, oversized bimini top, and a new triple-tube design that allows for outboard motors up to 200 horsepower.
Featuring a comfortable and stylish mate’s chair, the all-new Sweetwater 2286 SLC has a cleverly designed new seating layout that opens up the midships area and side-entry gate. Built on the hugely successful Sweetwater 2286 platform, the SLC changes things up the typical cockpit setup by adding a seat directly opposite the captain’s seat. Adding the Soft Touch package to this model not only gives you the plush Zephyr furniture material from the Sweetwater Premium Edition line, but also changes the captain and mate’s seat to a taller-back, full-reclining seat.
Another new seating configuration based on Sweetwater’s popular 2286 platform is the all-new DL layout featuring an oversized doublewide aft-facing lounge that pulls double duty as an enormous sunpad. Although clearly designed with guest comfort in mind, the 2286 DL also manages to provide an incredible amount of storage as well as concealing a full pop-up changing room under the sunpad. Sweetwater has also introduced several new packages featuring the most-requested options such as a Bluetooth-enabled Sony Stereo system, stainless steel speaker covers, pull-up cleats, a stunning darker Mica Mist carpet color, and a newly redesigned moveable armrest/cup holder.
Sylvan Marine
www.sylvanmarine.com
Sylvan has created a new pontoon lineup for 2014. When the new year rolls around, Sylvan will be showcasing its new S series and Mirage LE packages to give prospective buyers new and unique pontoons to hit the water with. For boaters looking for a little extra thrill on the water, the S series has been designed with speed and performance to satisfy any thrill seeker. The S series has also been built with a variety of upgraded and top-of-the-line standard features such as fully-loaded fiberglass console, a newly upgraded Polk stereo system and underwater lighting. Plus the best part about the S-series is that it comes standard with RPT (Revolutionary Planing Technology) tubes, which improve the speed as well as fuel efficiency.
Starcraft
Starcraft has created a variety of improvements to their line of pontoons that will surely change the way boaters experience their ride on the water. In 2014, Starcraft will introduce an upgraded HMX performance tube system with improved and strategically placed strakes and third tube. Re-engineered to improve lift out of the water, give a sizable increase in speed and ensure tight, smooth cornering, The HMX performance system will reenforce why Starcraft is one of the best pontoons on the water today. The HMX performance system will be a standard feature on the new SLS series, which includes the SLS3 and SLS5 models. Also available is the new Starcraft SCX 211 OB deck boat. Using Starcraft's dihedral V-hull will pickle fork decking, the SCX 211 OB gives owners the space and luxury of a deck boat with the unparalleled handling of a runabout. With the SCX loaded with a myriad of standard features and the ability to add the LS package, the SCX 211 OB is the perfect choice for the boater who wants it all.
Sunchaser
Every boat in the Sunchaser lineup has had various aesthetic and strength modifications implemented for 2014, with the Classic and DS models receiving a new standard console with a full compliment of gauges and upgraded furniture. The new Classic 8522 Entertainer implements the Classic 8522 Cruise and Fish's back fishing station, which can now be transformed into a bar with 3 bar stools and a cooler. So whether you're looking to spend a day with your line in the water, or you're entertaining some friends with some ice cold refreshment, the Entertainer has everything you need. Future Sunchaser owners now have the luxury of adding the Performance Tube System (PTS) to their package, which will include a third tube that will be available to customers at a more than affordable price.
