PDB Shootout: Manitou 23 Oasis RF SHP

First Impression

For good reason our industry has been raving about Manitou’s performance hulls for years now; they simulate a traditional V-hull about as closely as you can, but on a pontoon. We’re fans of Manitou’s SHP hulls as well, but often what gets overlooked is the rest of their pontoon boats, such as this one that as tested is feature-rich and well-built. Simply put, the 23 Oasis RF that we got our hands on has a lot more going for it than just a performance hull, and according to Heath’s Harbor in Linden, Mich., the RF is one of Manitou’s best-selling floorplans.

Details

In the model name the RF stands for reverse front, which translates to two forward-facing chaise lounges in the bow and two rear-facing ones in the stern. Hidden in the back of the portside chaise is an easy-to-use fold-out table that doesn’t require a pedestal yet is still very sturdy.

The overstuffed furniture with Matrix Marine vinyl is extremely inviting and we like that the accent seat color is woven in so it’s cooler to the touch. The textured Luna flooring complements the look and one of the options on this boat is a nearly 8-foot-long in-floor ski locker that includes a light as well as a bilge pump.

At the helm is a Garmin touchscreen that provides you with complete control of your entire boat functions, while simplifying the look of the dash. There are just a couple of push buttons below and this is also where you control the sound system which includes an upgraded subwoofer and amp.

Down close to the base of the helm is a small storage space with a cover, plus an optional glove box on the side of the helm. If we’re being overly picky, we wish these compartments locked so you had a secure place to store your personal items.

Other highlights include a ski/tow bar, electric power Bimini top and a bow filler cushion that can be placed in front of any of the three gate openings.

Closer Look

The Sport Handling Package (SHP) revolutionized the industry when it first debuted several years ago and it’s still turning heads (and sharp corners) today. The secret is the two 23-inch diameter pontoons with an oversized 27-inch center tube that is 5 1/4 inches lower than the outer tubes that mimic a vee hull. There are lifting strakes on both sides of all three pontoons and a full aluminum underskin covers the well-braced cross members. Up top, the rail height is a consistent 26 inches tall around most of the perimeter for a safe, family-friendly design. We also can appreciate the thick and textured powder-coating used throughout the boat, especially on the rails.

Throttle Down

Manitou’s hull combined with high horsepower has always been a winning combination and the Suzuki 250hp four-stroke on the back didn’t disappoint. Our quick 0-to-20 mph time of just over 4 seconds only tells part of the story on our way to a top speed of 50 mph. It’s the way we were able to bank and dive into some very tight turns that put big smiles on our faces.

Why Buy

The 23 Oasis RF combines amazing performance, luxury and value in a great all-around stylish pontoon that is going to be attractive to a lot of consumers. Plus dialing in an exact price for the specific model you’re interested in is as simple as using the configurator on the manufacturer’s website.





Lansing, Mich.
800-999-9788
www.manitouboats.com

Number of Occupants: 12
Price As Tested With Power: $74.8K
Maximum Speed: 50.3 mph                   
Wild Ponies: 250 hp
No. of Gates: 3
0-20 MPH: 4.26 seconds 
Ladder Measurement: 3’ 9” deep

Why we love this boat… She performs very well, but there is a lot more to this Manitou than just its hull. It has a very thoughtful layout with plenty of other features to be excited about.

Just being picky… We love the look of the helm that includes two places to store smaller items, but we wish at least one of these compartments locked for added security.

NOTABLE STANDARDS

SeaStar Power Assist Steering, Garmin 73SV, Full-Length Tube Risers, Sealed Transom, Ski/Tow Bar, Under-Deck Skin, 23-, 27-, and 23-Inch Diameter Tubes and Positive Angle Strakes.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

In-Tube Storage, LED Lighting In & Out, Premium Sound, Power Bimini, Luna Flooring and Folding Entertainment Table.

VITAL STATS

LOA: 24’ 4”
Beam: 8’ 6”
Hull Design: V-Toon
Dry Weight: 3,100 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 43 gallons

TEST DRIVE

Engine: Suzuki 250
Cylinder Type: V6
Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower: 220.5ci/250hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio: 2.29:1
Propeller: 16 X 21.5

RPM     vs.      SPEED     vs.  DB-A

675                  2.2                   74
1000                4.9                   74
1500                7.0                   76.5
2000                9.6                   82.5
2500                13.8                 86
3000                19.8                 88
3500                25.0                 93
4000                28.5                 96.5
4500                34.3                 107.5
5000                39.6                 109.5
5500                45.6                 112
5900                50.3                 114.5

PRICE

Price As Tested: $74,804
(Boat and Motor)

Base Price: $68,355
(Boat and Motor)

This article originally appeared in our 2021 Shootout issue. If you are interested in seeing more boat tests like this, click HERE to subscribe.