Lowe Infinity 270

February 2016 Boat Test Monday PDB Staff

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

There are four new 2015 Infinity models and we specifically tested the conversion lounger model, which provides a variety of different ways to use the stern of the boat. However, that’s just one of the boat’s unique features that we really like.

The Highlights

Every aspect of this boat was engineered to flow and follow the contours of the design. Even the radar bimini top is positioned forward to follow the lines of the boat. We love the Infinity name and logo that can be found etched into the custom Plexiglas bow table and tilt steering wheel, as well as stitched into the vinyl seats. It’s the subtle touches that sometimes make the difference.

The majority of the boat uses a marine-grade palm leaf carpet, but as you make your way to the stern the rear section uses Infinity Seagrass flooring. For storage there’s an over five foot in-floor locker that is 15 inches deep and has plenty of space to store your water toys. There is also plenty of additional storage under the bench seats.

In the bow the two chaise lounges offer movable arm rests, plus permanent drink holders on the floor. Built into the back of the portside chaise is a pop-up changing room that stands over five feet tall when open.

The stuffed pillow-top seating with a diamond pattern inlay only adds to the elegant look Lowe is going for on this model. Another added touch is the LED accent lighting found throughout the boat around cupholders, speakers and under the seat for mood lighting, plus under the water.

For the captain, there is a Lowrance GPS built into the center of the console with two large gauges on each side. Below the gauges the buttons are all LED lit too, including the master power switch. There is even a glove box to the side of the helm console that includes an LED light, 12-volt outlet and a USB port.

On the elevated helm platform the helm chair slides, swivels and reclines and directly across is a very plush first-mate fixed chair, complete with a pull-out ottoman.

As you make your way to the stern, the walkway distance between the helm chair is a little close, but the manufacturer is currently looking at options to free up more space. The conversion lounge can be used as two bench seats that face each other, two rear-facing bench seats, or completely folded down to convert into a double-wide rear lounger. It is easier to change positions with two people since it’s a lift and slide system and we just love the versatility. In the stern is a new ladder that is curved to follow the lines of the boat and there is also a tall ski/tow pylon located in the back as well.

Inspection Notes

Three 25-inch diameter pontoons are the base of this boat and there are lifting strakes on the center tube and on the inside of both outer tubes with a full aluminum protection shield.

Up top, the rails stand an impressive 29 inches tall, which only adds to its family-friendly and safe rating score.

Performance Evaluation

We did a double take when we recorded our averaged zero to 20 mile per hour time of just over four seconds. Not that we ever doubted the power of the Mercury 250 Pro, but wow that’s fast! She handles great in the turns and is very responsive.

Our Take

Extra mile effort pays off with the style and contour of this fully-loaded Infinity pontoon. From the versatility of the rear loungers to the high-end luxurious feel, there is a lot to love on this Lowe.

2015 Boat Specifications

Number of Occupants 14

Maximum Speed 44.5 mph

Wild Ponies 250 hp

No. of Gates 3

0-20 MPH 4.25 seconds

Ladder Measurement 3’ 4” deep

Why we love this boat…Unique floor plans always attract attention, but it’s the smart design and versatility that we appreciate the most.

Just being picky…On the boat we tested there wasn’t a lot of extra walking room behind the helm seat, but this is something that is already being addressed at Lowe.

PDB Days Reader Choice Feedback

"I love the dual rear recliners, very impressive."

NOTABLE STANDARDS

High Performance XL Pkg. w/ 25” center log, lifting strakes & spray deflector, rear faux wood flooring, SS hardware, 4-step boarding ladder, 28-oz. marine carpet, LED docking lighting, extra wide reclining helm chair, pop-up enclosure, raised fiberglass helm console, lighted glove box with MP3 port & 12-Volt receptacle, Lowrance Elite 5 GPS, hydraulic tilt steering and Polk Bluetooth stereo with 6 speakers.