G3 Sun Catcher V 322 GT

May 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

If you feel like the Sun Catcher line seems to always be expanding, you’d be correct. The V 322 GT is one of the newest models from G3 Boats and offers a unique floor plan and a “boat load” of standard features.

The Highlights

While a custom fiberglass helm console would typically be the focus on most pontoons, on this model it’s actually the large entertainment center that tends to attract the most attention. Complete with four bar stools, this is where your passengers will want to be regardless of what you’re serving. We like the cooler storage below as well as the location of one of the many 12-volt receptacles that can be found throughout the boat. Then to top it off, just behind the entertainment center is an aft pump sink which is included in the long list of standard features. Speaking of entertaining, the Alpine digital receiver that includes satellite and Bluetooth controls is designed to really get the party started.

At the reinforced helm console is an attractive symmetrical dash that includes speedometer, tach, trim and fuel gauges, as well as a tilt wheel with hydraulic steering. For the captain, the solid helm chair slides, swivels and reclines, and what makes this layout unique is it’s one of three onboard captain’s chairs that are all in a row. We’ve seen other manufacturers just leave the space behind the helm chair open, so we absolutely love the “helm chair train” floorplan for both function and style purposes.

In the bow are two nice bench seats that include chaise lounges so your passengers can stretch out and get comfortable. This is also a good time to mention the Infinity teak flooring that gives the boat a high-end feel, plus it’s easier for you to clean. There is also an extremely large in-floor ski locker built into the center pontoon to store your water toys, as well as a removable ski pole for the adrenaline fan in your family.

Inspection Notes

Each of the three U-shaped flotation filled logs are 23 by 25 inches in diameter and include lifting strakes. There is also an all-aluminum motor pod and full-length performance shield below deck as well.

Up top, the railing stands at an impressive 29 inches tall throughout the boat with the rails in the bow a couple of inches shorter. Each of the three entry gates are at least 30 inches wide and in the stern is a four-step boarding ladder that drops down over three feet into the water. Overall we rate this as a solid, well-built pontoon.

Performance Evaluation

Powered with a Yamaha 150 four-stroke, which is Yamaha’s best-selling outboard, we were just able to hit the 40-mile-per-hour mark at full throttle. We did note a slight rattle in the stern at high speeds, but it’s nothing to be concerned with. Overall she handles well and is a great cruising pontoon, destined for the sandbar or an evening sunset.

Our Take

We love that as-tested the boat has no options and everything you see is part of the standard package, but we would like to see a permanent trash receptacle included with the entertainment center. With the suggested retail price, we feel there is a lot of value in this new Sun Catcher V 322 GT that is going to appeal to a lot of young families and veteran boaters.

2015 Boat Specifications

Number of Occupants 12

Maximum Speed 40.1 mph

Wild Ponies 150hp

No. of Gates 3

0-20 MPH 5.18 seconds

Ladder Measurement 3’ 1” deep

Why we love this boat…The unique floor plan with the three captain’s chairs along with the entertainment center will draw you to it at the boat shows and the quality will keep you there.

Just being picky…Open layout, great entertainment center, sink and faucet. The only must-have amenity that appears to be missing is a trash receptacle and possibly a grill.

PDB Days Reader Choice Feedback

We love the openness of the helm and captain’s chair, plus the inviting bar area.

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Three jumbo 23” X 25” .100 gauge performance logs with closed cell flotation foam, upgraded heavy-duty all-aluminum welded motor pod, 38-gallon built-in fuel tank w/ EPA diurnal system, 12-volt accessory outlet, breakers instead of fuses, fire extinguisher, removable ski/tow pole, 2 chaise lounge style couches with under-seat storage, marine-grade Infinity teak design flooring, contoured bimini top w/ boot, center log storage, Alpine stereo with Bluetooth, iPod/MP3 jack & USB port, floor level courtesy lights and 4-step boarding ladder.