PDB Shootout Misty Harbor

Published in the January 2019 Issue September 2020 Boat Test Monday

First Impression

In an industry full of long model names and confusing numbers there is something refreshing about the simplicity of the E3P. The Skye Elite is a brand-new line for 2019 and we couldn’t wait to take a closer look.

Highlights

For starters, the multiple color exterior panels give this pontoon a customized look and there is something about this light blue color paired up with white that really looks attractive on the water. The hammered powder-coated rail and Bimini frame are also a nice added touch and from an interior perspective the upgraded BLT Aquatred slanted grey flooring ties it all together.

We’re all carrying our cell phones with us these days and Misty Harbor embraces this trend by incorporating dual USB ports (6 total onboard) with recessed cupholders in the bow seating areas. In these cutout sections the grey background accent pattern flows well with the white vinyl seats that have extra wide cushions for added comfort.

For the captain, the dual Simrad touchscreens anchor the dash with a row of lighted push buttons below. This is also where the driver can access the Infinity stereo that includes four speakers. Directly across from the helm console is a rear-facing chaise lounge with a moveable armrest and a built-in drink holder below because you can never have too many places to keep your drink.

In the stern is a massive fishing or entertaining station—it just depends on the day—and there is plenty of counter space up top. There are a couple of storage options including a very deep livewell for those anglers wishing to wet a line or it can be used to hold your 25-quart cooler. Two integrated rod launchers and holders are nice touches to its black acrylic top.

Also, in this area are two helm chairs that are identical to the captain’s seat and equally as comfortable. It’s a great addition but if we had to be picky the rear seats are limited in legroom and it’s a little tight as you make you way back to either stern gate, but the trade-off is having two more reclining chairs for your passengers. The swim deck is minimal and includes a four-step stainless steel boarding ladder. Also worth noting is the beefed-up transom that is well-braced and supported.

Inspection

Two 25-inch diameter pontoons are the base of this boat with lifting strakes on the inside. Up top there are four lift-and-lock gates and the rail height around the perimeter is a very family-friendly averaged height of nearly 28 inches tall.

Performance

We had no problem reaching a top speed of over 30 mph at full throttle and recording a zero-to-20 mph time of 5 seconds with the Evinrude 150 G2 High Output engine. Evinrude does offer a specific pontoon line of outboards but it’s always nice to see how well all of its engines pair with these crafts.

Parting Thought

We enjoyed testing this new model as it gave us a chance to see the updates coming from Misty Harbor. We like the value of the Skye Elite E3P as tested and feel a lot of other people will too.

For More Information:
Ford Dodge, Iowa
888-353-9575
www.mistyharborboats.com

SPECIFICATIONS
Number of Occupants: 11
Price As Tested With Power: $64.0K
Maximum Speed: 32.6 mph
Wild Ponies: 150 hp
No. of Gates: 4
0-20 MPH: 5.03 seconds
Ladder Measurement: 3’ 2” deep

Why we love this boat…Updated features like the Simrad touchscreen and multiple USB ports throughout the boat are a good sign this manufacturer is trending in the right direction.

Just being picky…The fishing station in the stern with the two helm chairs is a great addition but it’s a little tight to move past when accessing the rear swim deck.

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Infinity PRV515 sound system w/4 speakers, Simrad GO7 touchscreen with IS35 gauge, Party/Fish station w/integrated storage, livewell/cooler insert, wash down, Lippert Premium furniture, 4-tone fencing ability, Infinity Luxury Woven brushstroke flooring and raised helm.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

BLT slanted teak grey flooring and G2 pre-rigging.

VITAL STATS
LOA: 23’
Beam: 8’ 6”
Hull Design: Two Pontoons
Dry Weight: 2,500 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 28 gallons

TEST DRIVE
Engine: Evinrude 150 G2 H.O.
Cylinder Type: V6
Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower: 167ci/150hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio: 2.17:1
Propeller: 15 1/2 X 17

RPM vs. SPEED vs. DB-A
6000 44.5 N/A

PRICE
Price As Tested (Boat and Motor): $64,019
Base Price (Boat Only): $44,431

This article originally appeared in our 2019 Shootout issue. If you are interested in seeing more boat tests like this, click HERE to subscribe.