Regency 220 DL3

February 2015 Boat Test Monday

This article originally appeared in our 2015 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

The 2015 Regency line offers high-end features, while still offering an excellent value across the board. As you step onboard there is just something very inviting about this pontoon; maybe it’s just how the comfortable-looking furniture reminds us all of being at home.

The Highlights

There are three gates with this floorplan that are all spring-loaded with a positive latch. The front and side gates stay open through a magnetic connection and this might just be the easiest gate latch system in the industry today. Right away you begin to notice the ample storage options, like the side compartments that include a cutout in the seat base so you can even store fishing rods. The best part about all of the storage compartments is that they all do lock with a key. There was a time when you didn’t need to lock your compartments under the seats, but that’s not the case any more in most regions.

At the elevated helm platform is a very attractive console that includes easy-to-read multi-function Mercury Smart Craft gauges (included with optional Verado), a built-in Lowrance GPS/Fish Finder and a Sony remote (the actual stereo unit that is Bluetooth capable is nicely protected under the helm). The use of LED accent lighting on the dash panel is another one of the many added touches that we like about this Regency.

Behind the plush helm chair that slides, swivels and reclines is a refreshment center, complete with plenty of counter space, storage below, a faucet and a sink. The faucet doubles as a wash down sprayer with a limited range that always comes in handy. Behind the rear L-shaped bench seating is a pop-up changing room with a door. When open it stands nearly 6 feet tall and there is even a bench inside. We did have a little problem with the latching system as we tried to close it, but it’s nothing to be concerned with.

Just outside the rear gate is a small stern area that gives you enough room on the vinyl floor to dry off before coming aboard. Also in this area is a removable ski/tow pylon and a 3-step boarding ladder that drops 4 feet into the water for easy access.

Also worth noting, the majority of the boat uses a sculptured marine-grade carpet—which flows well with the upgraded vinyl upholstery—and there are three comfy chaise lounges so everyone can get comfortable.

Inspection Notes

For added stability, the three pontoons are 26 inches in diameter and are multi-chambered with welded lifting strakes. Up top the rail height ranges from 25 inches tall in the bow to an impressive family-friendly height of 29 inches for the majority of the boat. Overall our inspection crew gave this pontoon high marks for quality fit and finish work as well as for its safe design.

Performance Evaluation

Powered with the optional Mercury Verado 250 L, we just missed the 40 mile per hour mark at full throttle. She moves extremely well, especially for a boat of this size, and handles well in the corners. Made for comfortable cruising with a mix of water sports, we feel this Regency has something to offer everyone in your family.

Our Take

Sometimes it’s the little added touches that make the biggest impressions and that’s what we like about this pontoon. From the lockable storage compartments and self-latching gates to the loaded helm console and the entertainment center with faucet and sink, as-is this Regency is ready for a fun day out on the water.

Number of Occupants 12

Maximum Speed 37.8 mph

Wild Ponies 250 hp

No. of Gates 3

0-20 MPH 5.70 seconds

Ladder Measurement 4’ deep

Why we love this boat…It has a very inviting interior feel to it that helps you welcome friends on your boat, but also has locking storage to protect you from those you don’t want onboard.

Just being picky…Although larger than most pop-up changing rooms on the market today, we did have problems latching it closed.

PDB Days Reader Choice Feedback

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NOTABLE STANDARDS

Color-keyed 11’ polyester Bimini top w/ LED interior lights, color-keyed 2-tone protective boot and easy-snap hardware, storage pockets in Bimini top, pull-down loops on Bimini top straps help keep fabric taut, nav. and docking lights, LED courtesy lighting throughout, deluxe sport steering wheel w/ burlwood accents, power-assisted tilt hydraulic steering, 1.25” anodized aluminum fence rails for strength and durability, elevated fence panels for drainage and ventilation, sound-and-vibration-deadening fence insulation, heavy-duty extruded rub rail w/ oversized insert and corner castings, all-aluminum box-beam transom, 28-oz. sculptured marine-grade carpet, upgraded vinyl upholstery, oversized 3-step boarding ladder w/ taller grab rails and longer ladder, removable tournament-style ski/tow pylon, easy-access trash receptacle in starboard bow lounge, and removable table w/ soft-touch non-slip surface, molded-in drink holders and tall and short table pedestals.