Last fall we started hearing rumors Viaggio Pontoons was releasing an all-new lineup for 2024, complete with a full redesign of its Lago series. The exciting news was later confirmed when we learned Lago was being divided into three separate classes. However, it wasn't until we had a chance to get the V, X and Z models all on the water together that we could truly appreciate the evolution.
Lago, Italian for lake, now includes an entry-level (V), mid-line (X), as well as a luxurious version (Z), and you don't need to be Goldilocks to appreciate the three new choices.
Unlike the 19th-century English fairy tale, what Viaggio is doing is very real and a progressive step in helping customers find the porridge–ahem–the pontoon boat, that is just right for them.
Providing a sleek new look, cutting-edge technology, and better performance than ever before, these game-changing upgrades allow the Indiana-based manufacturer to offer a complete lineup of pontoon and triple toon boats that also includes its high-end Diamante series, its flagship product.
Since 1989 Viaggio Marine has proudly been building pontoon boats known for their quality craftsmanship and durable construction. Three years ago the manufacturer completely redesigned its boats from the deck up, making them so drastically different they felt the product needed a new name. Misty Harbor Boats transformed into Viaggio, the Italian word for journey, after considering the bold angled lines resembling a V that were incorporated in the new design.
Lago V
Affordability without cutting corners is how the manufacturer describes this line, featuring a sleek look, increased standard features, and a frame construction with uncompromising quality. The Lago V sets the bar high for its class. We had a chance to review the Lago V16U, powered by a Suzuki 60hp engine that had us reaching speeds near the 20 mph mark at full throttle.
Starting at the helm, the fiberglass console is well protected with a solid windshield that flows well with the analog gauges, push button controls and access to the four-speaker Clarion stereo. The list of standard features appears to be endless and includes highlights such a Gussi Italia Lugana steering wheel, USB and USB-C combo charging port, Leon Grayson vinyl premium furniture with wrapped Rotocast seat bases.
We love the look of the single colored .040 aluminum fencing with black anodized rails, deck trim and side skirting, something we're not used to seeing included as standard features on an entry-level model. Below deck the cross-members are on 16-inch centers and the two 25-inch diameter pontoons provide strength to help create an extremely durable undercarriage.
Inside the boat, the port side gate has been replaced with a long bench to ensure the passenger rating of 7 includes a comfortable place for everyone to sit. The model number is 16, meaning the pontoons are 16 feet long, but like all the Viaggio models the back deck extends an extra two feet, giving you more boat for your money.
Lago V16U
LOA: 18’ 4”
Beam: 8' 6”
Hull Design: Twin 25” Tubes
Dry Weight: 1,896 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 28 gallons
Number Of Occupants: 7
Base Price With Suzuki DF60: $36,873
Maximum Speed: 18 mph
Wild Ponies: 60hp
No. Of Gates: 2
0-20 MPH: N/A
Ladder Measurement: 48” deep
Engine: Suzuki 60
Propeller: 11 5/8 X 12
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Lago X
The ideal blend of affordability and customization, the Lago X is priced to compete with other mid-line brands. The X offers a multitude of layouts, interior/exterior decor combinations, and options, offering a premium high-end look and feel. We put the Lago X24S to the test, paired with a Mercury 300hp outboard and were able to reach speeds near the mid 40 mph range.
The Lago X line has 11 overall exterior colors to choose from as well as five different stripe colors, which is unusual for a price point line where you normally don't have the option to customize it to this degree to your individual tastes.
On the particular model we tested, there are two chaise lounges in the bow, identical dual helm chairs, and a versatile seating area in the stern that easily converts from a bench seat to a large rear-facing lounger. A Gussi Italia Molinara steering wheel is centered on the Simrad touchscreen mounted into the dash, with easy access to the Clarion Sound system on the left and USB and USB-C combo charging port near a cubby to the right. The back-lit toggle switches complete the aviation vibe, helping to give the dash a fresh and modern look.
The test boat included an optional diving board from LilliPad Marine that easily stows away in the optional in-floor ski locker when not in use. Proving you don't have to spend big to get a high-quality pontoon, the Lago X24S has a lot going for it beyond its unique color scheme. The thoughtful layout with a long list of standard features takes considerable guesswork out of what you really need (and don't need) when selecting the right model for your needs.
Lago X24S
LOA: 26’ 4”
Beam: 8' 6
Hull Design: Triple Toon 27”
Dry Weight: 3,083 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 61 gallons
Number Of Occupants: 11
Base Price With Mercury 300XL: $66,785
Maximum Speed: 43.6 mph
Wild Ponies: 300hp
No. Of Gates: 3
0-20 MPH: 3.4 seconds
Ladder Measurement: 48” deep
Engine: Mercury Verado 300XL
Propeller:14.6 X 15
Lago Z
The Z is the luxury line for Lago and offers many of the luxurious standard amenities (raised helm, chrome decals, recessed speakers/cupholders built into the backrest, and diamond pattern stitched furniture) and options more common for a premium line, while featuring base pricing that rivals many brands’ mid-line boats. Viaggio's Diamante has always been the manufacturer's highest line, but in previous years a more simplified version was available. In 2024, the Diamante has transformed to a full high-end luxury line, so in order to fill the gap between it and a mid-line Lago, the Z series was created.
We hit the open water on the Lago Z24U with a Honda 250hp outboard on the back and it was a blast to drive with a top speed of just over 40 mph. Loaded with unique options such as an Attivo arch tower with dual speakers, it clearly competes with other high-end models in the industry.
One big selling point is the raised helm console that only adds to the luxurious vibe. Behind the windshield is a full dash complete with standard features such as a Gussi Italia Molinara steering wheel, dual multi-function analog gauges, Simrad touchscreen and USB/USB-C charging ports. It's a very clean look with a single row of vertical back lit toggle switches and a volume knob for the JL Audio sound system.
Our specific test boat included key options such as an easy-to-use boarding ladder as well as flag pole, both from LilliPad Marine, wireless phone charger and chilled cupholder at the helm, RGB exterior and interior lighting packages as well as the upgraded JL Audio system to six speakers, 10-inch subwoofer and two tower speakers.
Lago Z24U
LOA: 24’ 4”
Beam: 8' 6”
Hull Design: Triple Toon 25”
Dry Weight: 3,924 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 60 gallons
Number Of Occupants: 12
Base Price With Honda BF250: $91,713
Maximum Speed: 40.6 mph
Wild Ponies: 250hp
No. Of Gates: 3
0-20 MPH: 6.0 seconds
Ladder Measurement: 60” deep
Engine: Honda BF250
Propeller: 15 1/4 X 17
