Crest Savannah 250 NX SLR2

This article originally appeared in our 2017 Shootout issue. If you are interested in seeing more stories like this, click HERE to subscribe.  

First Impression

It’s called the Great White package on this Savannah, which means it looks like it was created just for the saltwater market, yet is still ideal for freshwater too. From the high gloss gel coat to the deck trim and rails, everything is white, including the Mercury outboard. This beautiful boat is eye-catching to say the least. 

Breakdown

The use of fiberglass throughout the boat truly makes a difference with this top-of-the-line luxury pontoon because the seat bases can be uniquely designed, plus it creates larger and cleaner storage compartments below. In the bow are two chaise lounges and we especially like the recessed speakers and cupholders on each side as well as the 12-volt outlets. The best way to keep your passengers happy these days is provide them with a way to power their electronics.

Directly across from the helm console is a great lounge seat for the first mate that includes storage compartments in the armrests and another 12-volt outlet. At the helm is a tall-back chair that slides, swivels and reclines, proving there really isn’t a bad seat on this 13-passenger-rated boat.

We love the sporty helm console and its aircraft design that includes Verado SmartCraft gauges and a multi-function (and standard) Simrad digital screen. Every great helm should have some type of storage for the captain and that’s why we like the compartment on the side that includes a 12-volt outlet as well as USB/Auxiliary port. Perfect for stashing your phone for the day. As an added bonus, the captain’s cooled cupholder is a great way to spoil the driver. It will keep any drink you have ice cold and ready.    

Speaking of being spoiled, another one of our favorite features is the PWR-ARM power Bimini top from Schwintek, Inc. With a simple push of a button you can easily raise or lower your top. 

Behind the helm are two rear-facing lounges with—again—storage compartments and 12-volt outlets in the armrests. Plenty of great storage room below the loungers too, including a pop-up changing room that is an impressive 6 feet tall when open!

The FUSION stereo controls are located in the back with the loungers. It is a little odd to not have it at the helm since most captains insist on controlling the music onboard. However, the stereo does include the FUSION-Link system where your cell phone becomes your remote so you’re probably good.

Inspection

Below deck, the outside pontoons are 25 inches in diameter with the center pontoon slightly larger at 26 inches. It’s part of the CP3+ package that includes an aluminum underskin, lifting strakes, SeaStar hydraulic steering, a deluxe aluminum ski/tow bar, integrated transom and a 52-gallon fuel tank.

From a safety standpoint, we like that the tallest rail height is nearly 32 inches tall and in the stern the lowest rail still stands nearly 25 inches. The rails are all powder-coated white and the fit and finish work through the boat is outstanding.

Handling

As expected with the massive Mercury 350hp Verado combined with Crest’s proven hull design, she handles like a dream. We were able to dive into some very sharp turns, while staying in complete control of the boat. At full throttle we nearly reached the 50 mph mark. It’s fun to drive such an elegant, yet sporty boat. 

Final Thoughts

You clearly get what you pay for and while the price as tested is not for everyone, the total package on offer will not disappoint. It’s very well-thought-out with a family-friendly layout and the performance to complete the total package.

Boat Specifications

Number of Occupants            13                   

Maximum Speed                     47.1 mph                    

Wild Ponies                             350 hp

No. of Gates                           3

0-20 MPH                               5.82 seconds  

Ladder Measurement             3’ 8” deep

Why we love this boat…It’s Crest’s high-end model for a reason. It’s truly loaded with high-end amenities, including thoughtful features while performing like a thrill ride pontoon should.  

Just being picky…It’s a very minor detail but we’d like to see the main FUSION stereo controls located at the helm since we feel the captain deserves to control the music.  

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Full powder-coated rails, custom mooring cover, power Bimini top, deluxe polyvinyl flooring, billet aluminum dash w/ billet switch panels, Fusion stereo, 6 speakers, subwoofer, 500-watt amp, lighted cupholders, Simrad 5-inch MFD, deluxe bow and stern modules, and stainless steel grab rails and components.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

Power assisted steering, Great White Pkg., Ultra Premium Fusion Sound System w/ 1600-watt amp, in-floor 13.2-cubic-foot ski locker, capt. cooled cupholder, and Verado SmartCraft gauges.

VITAL STATS

LOA                  26’ 6”             

Beam                 8’ 6”

Hull Design     Triple CP3 Pontoons

Dry Weight       3,959 lbs.

Fuel Capacity    52 gallons

TEST DRIVE

Engine                                                             Mercury Verado 350

Cylinder Type                                                 Inline 6

Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower           158.6ci/350hp

Lower Unit Gear Ratio                                   1.75:1

Propeller                                                          15 X 15

RPM     vs.      SPEED     vs.    DB-A

1000                2.9                     82

1500                4.9                     93

2000                7.2                     86

2500                10.1                   87

3000                13.1                   87

3500                18.3                   88

4000                22.6                   95

4500                27.7                   91

5000                31.2                   93

5500                35.7                   95

6200                47.1                   102

Owosso, Mich.

989-725-5188

 www.crestpontoonboats.com