Boat Test Monday: Premier 230 Solaris RL

First Impression
As fans of the original PTX performance hull, we must admit we were a little nervous when we heard Premier was releasing its new Supercharged PTX version in 2024. It was already a proven hull design and part of the Minnesota-based manufacturer's performance legacy, so why change it? Well, we quickly discovered the answer to that question after getting the Solaris on the water.   

Highlights
We'll get to the new Supercharged PTX soon enough, as we first want to focus on the interior of the all-new Solaris Series. Starting at the redesigned helm console, we love the optimized ergonomics and sight lines that combine for a clean and modern look. The dash has been upgraded to dual 9-inch Simrad touchcreens with rocker switches below. There is even access to the JL Audio system with a 12-volt and USB/USB-C ports nearby. The elevated, directional speaker locations in the seat backs for the six-speaker system provide amazing sound throughout the boat. The upgraded JL system includes a subwoofer and amp, and is one of the premium options included on this test boat. At the helm there is also a wireless charger mount, refrigerated cupholder, plus a dial to control the RGB lighting.

The two chaise lounges in the bow or even one of the two reclining and fully adjustable helm chairs mid-ship would typically be the most coveted places to sit. However, it's the multi-position rear lounger that will attract the most attention. From back-to-back bench seats to rear- and forward-facing loungers the possibilities appear endless; you can even lay the seats completely  flat as a bed. It's also worth noting that there is a second wireless charger in the lounge, with numerous USB/USB-C charging ports found throughout the boat.

In the stern is a massive ski/tow bar on the extended swimdeck, along with a stainless steel Ricochet ladder that automatically retracts when you get underway if you accidentally leave it down.

Other unique features include a trash can holder built into the door of the elevated helm console that includes a paper towel holder, an oversized in-floor ski locker with one of the biggest openings you'll find, and a power Bimini top. 



Closer Look
The PTX 28 package includes .125-inch rough water nosecones, hydraulic power assist tilt steering, digital throttle, full performance sheeting, ski locker, and lifting strakes on all three of the 25-inch diameter pontoons.

Throttle Down
The new and exclusive performance-engineered PTX center tube touts performance gains upwards of 15 percent over the previous series. The boost in power comes with another surprise: a 10 percent fuel efficiency that cruising and water sports enthusiasts are sure to appreciate. With a Mercury 250hp FourStroke on the back, we comfortably reached speeds in the mid 40s with a zero-to-20 mph time of just 4.4 seconds. But it's the way this Supercharged PTX hull allows the boat to dive into some sharp turns that truly impressed us. Props to the engineers at Premier for finding a way to improve a hull that most considered too legendary to tweak.

Why Buy
Under new ownership, Premier Marine with its new stunning 150,000-square-foot facility that is tailor-made to design, engineer, and manufacture premium luxury pontoons is looking to take its boats to a whole new level and it starts with this redesigned Solaris Series.

Big Lake, Minnesota
763-207-2475
www.pontoons.com

Number Of Occupants            15                 
Price As Tested With Power   $125K
Maximum Speed                     45.1mph                     
Wild Ponies                            250hp
No. Of Gates                           3
0-20 MPH                               4.4 seconds   
Ladder Measurement             48” deep

Why we love this boat…Premier managed to take its proven PTX hull and make it quicker while improving the fuel economy, but that's only part of the highlights of the all-new Solaris.

Just being picky...The stern lounger is one of our favorites, but it feels like the rounded pad beside it below the cupholders could include a storage area or a better way to use this space.   

NOTABLE STANDARDS
PTX 28 Pkg., Ricochet Ladder, Trailerable Ratchet Cover, SS Bow & Aft Flip Up Cleats, Sky Wheel, RGB Lighting, Refrigerated Cupholder, 12-Volt, USB/USB-C Ports, Wireless Phone Charger, Woven Helm Mat, Glove Box, Storage w/Trash Can & Paper Towel Holder, LED Docking & Nav Lights, Solaris Soft Touch Furniture, Solaris Spotter Chair and Adjustable Rear Lounge.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT
Upgraded 47-Gallon Fuel Tank, Dual 9” Simrad Touchscreens, JL Audio MM105 Stereo w/6 M6 Speakers, Subwoofer & AMP, RGB Rail Lights, Premium Helm Mat, Lighted Ski/Tow Bar and Vantage Charcoal Tube Film.

VITAL STATS
LOA                24’ 5”   
Beam               8’ 6”
Hull Design     PTX Triple Pontoon
Dry Weight     2,900 lbs.
Fuel Capacity  47 gallons

TEST DRIVE
Engine                                                 Mercury 250hp FourStroke
Cylinder Type                                     V8
Displacement/Horsepower                 4.6L/250hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio                       1.75:1
Propeller                                             14.5 X 17 Enertia

RPM    vs.      SPEED              vs.     DB-A
1000                5.1                   78
1500                6.8                   83
2000                9.9                   84.5
2500                14.6                 92
3000                18.5                 93
3500                21.9                 92
4000                24.8                 95
4500                27.3                 98
5000                33.7                 100.5
5600                45.1                 102

PRICE
Price As Tested                       $125,251
(Boat & Engine)

Base Price                               $79,999
(Boat Only)