This article originally appeared in our 2014 Shootout issue. If you are interested in seeing this in print along with 25 other boat reviews, click HERE to purchase the back issue.
What You Need To Know
Value never looked so good. As the price of boats in general continues to climb each year, it’s amazing how much is packed into this SunChaser pontoon. True, it’s designed to be an affordable and budget-friendly option, but the amount of standard and optional features included as tested will have you doing a double take when you see the price tag.
The Highlights
The stern area is where a lot of your guests are going to end up because this is where the model gets its name. The Entertainer version of the Classic 8522 includes a rear bar area that features three stools, plus a large built-in cooler table that can double as a livewell. Other key features worth noting in the stern include a four-step boarding ladder as well as an optional ski/tow bar. And really, with the non-skid vinyl flooring in this section, it truly is a good multi-purpose pontoon for those who love to do a little fishing or enjoy having an area that’s easy to clean up. Plus this layout does include rod storage so it’s basically a fishing model disguised as a cruising/entertaining pontoon.
Nothing at the helm would give you any indication that this is an entry-level type of a pontoon. The helm is part of SunChaser’s Executive package that includes an upgraded tilt steering wheel, a full gauge package, upgraded Infinity stereo, LED lighting, plus a raised platform. With the symmetrical dash and easy-to-read gauges, this is by far one of the best value-based consoles we’ve seen.
There are two chaise lounges, including one with a standard changing room built into the back that also includes room below for a portable toilet. As for the furniture, it has been redesigned for the new year and we love the extra detail that went into the design. There are a ton of cup holders onboard and we even found a couple tucked away in the seat bases. It was clearly designed by engineers who spend time on the water and not just at a desk.
Inspection Notes
The two 25-inch diameter chambered pontoons with full keels include Z-channel construction. As expected, the craftsmanship is solid on this SunChaser with all the hidden areas being well-finished. We like the safe, family-friendly design along with the overall layout. Plus it comes standard with SunChaser's Lifetime plus 6 warranty.
From a practical standpoint the Rotocast seat bases are perfect for keeping your storage items dry while offering great seating support. But if we had to be picky, seeing the Rotocast seat bases exposed takes away from the quality vinyl and overall look to the seating. But for the price we feel it’s a great tradeoff.
Performance Evaluation
Evinrude is now offering an outboard line specific to pontoon boats and the 90hp E-TEC is a great fit on this SunChaser. This engine is part of Evinrude’s new Pontoon Series and at full throttle we reached speeds in the mid 20s. Keeping with the value theme, we feel this is a great outboard for this pontoon.
Our Take
Boating is one of the greatest ways to bring a family together and create long-lasting memories. This SunChaser is built for those on a tight budget who still want to enjoy the unique lifestyle that only boating can offer. The Executive helm console is truly loaded with a lot of great features and we love all of the different ways you can use and enjoy the rear bar section.
For those looking for a great all-around pontoon and a price that won’t break the bank, the 8522 Entertainer as tested with the Pontoon Series E-TEC is worthy of a closer look.
Number of Occupants 12
Maximum Speed 24.7 mph
Wild Ponies 90 hp
No. of Gates 3
0-20 MPH 5.8 seconds
Ladder Measurement 3’ 4” deep
Why we love this boat…The helm console is beautiful with a lot of great features you’d never expect to find on a pontoon priced this well.
Just being picky…This ‘toon could use a little splash of color as an accent to the other conservative colors that flow well throughout the boat. As is, nothing really stands out with the interior as far as color is concerned.
NOTABLE STANDARDS
Full fiberglass console, 2 rear-facing loungers, flip-up change room w/ portable toilet storage in lounge arm, Rotocast premium seat bases with channel system for drainage, rear bar area with 4 stools and built-in cooler, exterior D-railing and color-coordinated bimini top with anodized frame.
OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT
Ski/tow bar and Executive helm pkg. that includes a raised helm, gauge package, upgraded Infinity stereo, tilt wheel and LED lighting.
VITAL STATS
LOA 23’ 10”
Beam 8’ 6”
Hull Design Two Pontoons
Dry Weight 2575 lbs.
Fuel Capacity 30 gallons
TEST DRIVE
Engine Evinrude 90 E-TEC
Cylinder Type Inline 3-Cylinder
Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower 79.1ci/90hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio 2.36:1
Propeller 15 X 15 Rouge 4 Blade
RPM vs. SPEED vs. DB-A
800 1.2 79
1000 2.6 86
1500 3.9 82.5
2000 5.5 85.5
2500 7.4 89
3000 9.1 93.5
3500 11.9 88
4000 15.2 89
4500 18.5 88.5
5000 20.4 91.5
5500 23.7 96
5600 24.7 95
New Paris, Ind.
888-767-9023
smokercraft.com
