Premier 260 Grand Entertainer

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First Impression

With a model name like Grand Entertainer there is a little more added pressure to deliver a worthy layout, but this Premier goes the extra mile to truly deliver. However, the entertaining and plush amenities could easily be overshadowed by just how well this 26-footer performs. 

Breakdown

Bar boats are becoming more and more popular, but this floorplan goes beyond the norm as well as the expected. Located in the stern of the boat behind the dual high-back Opulent Deluxe helm chairs is a U-shaped configuration with a canvas top and four bar stools with back rests as well as foot rests on one side. There are even purse/jacket hooks below and lighted cupholders that pair up with each stool. Overhead are wine glass holders and with someone standing behind the counter you really do feel like you’re ready to be served. Included with the design is a refrigerator, large sink and faucet, built-in ice bucket, stereo remote, bottle opener and lockable sliding drawers. It’s truly the ideal setup for those who love to entertain.

Outside the stern gate is a decent-sized swim deck with a nice four-step boarding ladder, but with a 300hp on the back we were a little surprised not to see a ski/tow bar or a way to pull wakeboarders or tubers, although one is available as an option.   

The helm console is centered on a large multi-function Beacon 2 touch screen for a very clean, modern look that is extremely functional too. Below is another touch screen that controls your media as well as lighting and other functions.

With Opulent Deluxe suspension seat backs and bases, there’s really not a bad seat onboard, but as we move forward towards the bow and the U-shaped seating (thanks to the bow filler cushion), we have to give some props to the Heritage Fabric. It’s been engineered utilizing proprietary Takumi technology, an artisan process providing luxury, softness, durability and ease of care. It honestly feels like leather, is as soft as it is durable, and it always stays cool to the touch. 

As one of our favorite space-saving features, the portside seat pivots open to reveal a very large pop-up changing room that stands over 6 feet tall when open. 

There is also a large in-floor ski locker in the bow that is nearly 7 feet long and over a foot deep. And to tie in the color scheme is a woven vinyl floor that matches perfectly with the rest of the boat.

Inspection

With the PTX package you gain a 36-inch diameter U-shaped center pontoon between two 25-inch diameter tubes. The center tube is 2 feet longer, which provides extra deck space as well as an aerodynamic profile that improves the performance. Top to bottom, the pontoon received high marks for the fit and finish work as well as quality craftsmanship.

Handling

Powered with a Suzuki 300hp four-stroke this pontoon performed like, well, a Premier. The PTX hull makes a huge difference, especially the way the ‘toon is able to bank in the sharp turns like a V-hull boat. We easily reached the 40 mph mark at wide open throttle and thoroughly enjoyed our time behind the wheel of this performance thrill ride.

Final Thoughts

While the price as-tested won’t be for every budget, you really do get a lot in return for your investment with this Premier. Clearly the bar area will get a lot of attention—especially for those who live to entertain on the water—but there is a whole lot more to this Grand Entertainer that’s just waiting to be explored.

Boat Specifications

Number of Occupants            18                   

Maximum Speed                     41.4 mph                    

Wild Ponies                             300 hp

No. of Gates                           3

0-20 MPH                               5.93 seconds  

Ladder Measurement             3’ 7”

Why we love this boat…Like everyone else who sees this layout, it’s hard not to fall in love with the bar area that is so over-the-top with features it will blow your mind.  

Just being picky…The PTX hull and the Suzuki 300hp outboard are too powerful of a combination not to have some type of ski/tow bar be part of the standard features.  

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Changing room, 30” PTX Pkg., Opulent deluxe furniture w/Heritage Fabric, Liberty deluxe helm w/ Beacon 2 electronics, refrigerated cupholder, spotter camera, subwoofer and 12-volt outlet, 4 speakers and entertainment bar that includes slim table, electric sink, refrigerator, ice bucket, sink strainer, 12-volt outlet, ss drawer system w/ lock, lighted Cabana top w/ stemware holders, bottle holder, lighted cupholders, purse hooks, dual battery switch, two bank battery charger, 4 wineglasses, 2 margarita glasses, and 2 martini glasses.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

36” PTX Pkg., chocolate rails, brushed silver Vantage film w/ Pontoon Guard, deluxe bar stools, Ricochet ladder and power assist steering.  

VITAL STATS

LOA                  26’ 5”

Beam                 8’ 6”

Hull Design       Three Pontoons

Dry Weight       3,350 lbs.

Fuel Capacity    47 gallons

TEST DRIVE

Engine                                                             Suzuki 300

Cylinder Type                                                 V6

Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower           245.6ci/300hp

Lower Unit Gear Ratio                                   2.08:1

Propeller                                                          18 1/2 X 16

RPM     vs.      SPEED     vs.    DB-A

1000                4.8                     76

1500                6.0                     78

2000                9.2                     88

2500                13.6                   85

3000                17.2                   92

3500                21.7                   94

4000                25.8                   96

4500                30.7                   99

5000                35.6                   100

5500                41.4                   103

Wyoming, Minn.

651-462-2880

www.pontoons.com