Veranda V22RFL

December 2013 Boat Test Monday Brady L. Kay

What You Need To Know

First impressions are important and we really like how this Veranda makes a statement the first time you see it. It all starts with the bright and attractive red exterior color, but it's the outside stainless panel accents that we really like. Before you ever step onboard you already have an added appreciation for this high-end model.

The Highlights

One feature that really stands out when you first look at the helm is the built-in Humminbird 385 GPS. It's part of the standard features offered and we love that the console appears to be centered around it. Being able to keep an eye on your depth as well as follow the map is important, so we love the center placement of this unit. The toggle switches and large multi-function gauges are a nice added touch as well, plus we love the Sony stereo remote. With the main stereo unit nicely protected from the elements under the helm console, it's nice to have controls easily accessible for the driver with the remote.

There is a small cubby for the captain that includes a 12-volt outlet, as well as MP3 jack that we really like. We just wish there were a locking glove box for the driver. Overall we love the look of this helm console that is very attractive and flows well with the rest of the boat.

There are two chaise lounges in the bow and the seating overall is very comfortable, but it will be the two rear-facing lounges in the stern that will be the most popular for your passengers.

From a safety standpoint, we love the railing and the safe design that keeps everything on the inside of the rear gate. There is a table mount between the two lounges that is in the perfect spot for cruising. But when it comes time for water sports you'll want to stow the table to free up the walkway to the stern.

As for the back deck, the teak-looking composite flooring is a nice added touch that complements the ski/tow pylon and three-step boarding ladder. Other key features include the soft Berber carpet, LED interior lights, a pop-up enclosure and a 7-foot in-floor ski locker.

Inspection Notes

The no-wood construction is a key feature because no other manufacturer offers an all-welded, interlocking aluminum deck with integrated wave shield. The exclusive design is built to last a lifetime. Additionally, we also like the three 25-inch diameter pontoons that include a transom pod with step pad.

The boat earned high marks for its safety with all rails around the perimeter that help make it family-friendly, especially for those with smaller children. We did note some rough welds, but overall this `toon rated high for its fit and finish work.

Performance Evaluation

With the Yamaha 200 VMAX outboard, this Veranda can really fly across the water. The zero to 20 mile per hour time of just 5.5 seconds has a lot to do with the Yamaha engine as well as the all-aluminum undercarriage design. At wide open throttle we reached a top speed of 45 mph, which roughly translates to: the ski/tow pylon is going to be put to good use.

Final Thoughts

The high-end look Veranda is going for is complete when you see the exterior of this toon out on the water. The red reflects well off the water but because it is capable of speeds near the 50 mile per hour mark, you might not get as long a look as you would like as this Veranda goes by.

Number of Occupants 13

Price As Tested With Power $52.2K

Maximum Speed 45.5 mph

Wild Ponies 200hp

No. of Gates 3

0-20 MPH 5.5 seconds

Ladder Measurement 3' 1" deep

Why we love this boat.We love the high-end feel of this Veranda and it all starts with a beautiful exterior that flows well with the attractive-looking helm console.

Just being picky.The throttle control seemed to be mounted a little low on the helm console, but once you get used to the location it becomes a non-issue.

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Berber Carpet, 4 Chaise Lounges, 4 Kicker Speakers, Sony CD w/in Dash Remote, LED Interior Lights, Composite Teak Swim Platform w/Boarding Ladder, Deluxe Dash w/flush, Mount Humminbird 385 & Digital Multi-Function Gauge, Raised Fiberglass Helm, Mooring Cover, Armrest Cup Holders, Privacy Room, Reclining Deluxe Helm Chair w/ adjustable armrests, Table Package, Stainless Steel Cup Holders, SS Docking Lights, SS Fold up Cleats, SS Bimini Hardware, Under Console Storage, Underseat Storage

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

Triple-Toon Performance Package, Lifting Strakes, Hydraulic Steering, In-floor Storage, Pylon Ski Tow, SS Panel Accents

VITAL STATS

LOA 23' 6"

Beam 8' 6"

Hull Design Three Pontoons

Dry Weight 2800 lbs.

Fuel Capacity 38 gallons

TEST DRIVE

Engine Yamaha VF200LA

Cylinder Type V6

Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower 254ci/200hp