Boat Test Monday: Vanderbilt 700 Twin

First Impression
Most (if not all) floorplans on a pontoon boat are considered open and spacious, yet the 9-foot wide beam on this 30-foot Vanderbilt truly makes a significant difference in the feel of the layout. The Indiana-based manufacturer found a way to pack an amazing amount of standard features into every square inch.

Highlights
With the unique aft not seen on any other brand of pontoon, the best place to start when hitting the highlights of this model has to be the stern layout. With twin outboards, the space in between would be lost on most models, but that's not the case with this 700T. The deck extends between the Suzuki engines and includes Corian-covered countertops with accent lighting and foot rests to create a popular place to stand and socialize while the boat is at rest. In the stern is a safety chain, as well as a pullout telescoping ladder that is hidden in the deck and located below the ski/tow bar.

You can customize the colors, but other than selecting the engine, everything on this boat we tested is a standard feature, including the stylish helm console. The massive 12.3-inch Medallion Viper II digital screen anchors the dash behind the smoked, wrap-around windshield. The touchscreen also controls the Fusion sound system, which consists of a 10-inch subwoofer, 2000 watt amp, and six speakers for an amazing sound. There is even an exterior port side remote mounted to the fence, but that's not the only way to control the tunes. Built into the steering wheel are fingertip controls that work together to navigate the touchscreen.

In the bow are two chaise lounges with two more in the stern, and the wood-free construction for the furniture includes built-in lit cupholders, wireless phone chargers, and sturdy billet arm rest components for each of the four sections.




Closer Look
With the 700T, the foundation includes triple 25-inch diameter pontoons with a 46-gallon fuel tank. Worth noting, on the 727TX – its other twin engine model – the tube diameter increases to 27 inches with a 100-gallon fuel tank for larger bodies of water. There are lifting strakes on each of the three pontoons with the nose cones all being reinforced.   

Throttle Down
Suzuki is known for its low-end torque, but we were still pleasantly surprised with the blistering zero-to-20 mph time of less than 3 seconds! The secret is the extended center tube that generates a quick hole shot and also keeps the boat on plane during acceleration. With twin Suzuki 250hp outboards on the back, we took off like a rocket on our way to a top speed of 53 mph for a thrilling, yet remarkably controlled ride. With the Optimus EPS hybrid electronic steering, she's highly responsive and we were able to dive into some sharp turns with ease.   

Why Buy
Vanderbilt truly simplifies the buying process by loading its boats with standard features – all you need to select is the color and the engine and you're off and running. The latest offering from Vanderbilt received high marks for its quality craftsmanship and overall construction.

Fort Wayne, IN
260-478-7227
www.vanderbiltpontoons.com

Number Of Occupants      12                   
Price As Tested With Power       $231K
Maximum Speed    53.2 mph                   
Wild Ponies           500hp
No. Of Gates         3
0-20 MPH             2.94 seconds 
Ladder Measurement       48”

Why we love this boat…We're fans of the unique stern layout that utilizes the area between the twin outboards, but it's the performance and over-built features that consumers will truly love.

Just being picky...The stainless chain in the stern makes the pontoon safe, but those with small children or pets would probably prefer some type of a gate in the aft.

NOTABLE STANDARDS
Ski Locker w/Bilge Pump, Ski/Tow Bar, Highback Helm Chair, Flip-Up Table, Premium Lighting Pkg., Optimus EPS Hybrid Electric Steering, Wireless Phone Chargers (5), USB Port, 12-Volt Outlet (3), Push-Button Steering Wheel Controls, Tinted Sport Wrap-Around Windshield, Docking Lights, 12.3” Medallion Viper II System, Fusion Stereo System (10” Sub, Amp, Stereo Remote & 6 Speakers), SS Retractable Ladder, Saltwater Pkg., Aft Bars w/Cupholders, Bow Fence Storage, Blackout Pkg., and Playpen Cover.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT
Suzuki Twin 250hp Outboards.

VITAL STATS
LOA                  30’ 6” 
Beam                 9’
Hull Design       Twin Engine Triple Pontoon
Dry Weight       4,330 lbs
Fuel Capacity    46 gallons

TEST DRIVE
Engine                                                 Suzuki DF250 AP
Cylinder Type                                     V6
Displacement/Horsepower                 4.0L/250hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio                       2.08:1
Propeller                                             15 X 21

RPM    vs.      SPEED              vs.     DB-A
  750                1.1                   72
1000                6.75                 83
1500                9.3                   86
2000                13.6                 87.5
2500                19.4                 94.5
3000                22.1                 98
3500                27.5                 99
4000                31.3                 102
4500                34.1                 103
5000                39.7                 104.5
5500                44.5                 106
6000                53.2                 106.5

PRICE
Price As Tested                       $231,000
(Boat & Engines)