PDB Shootout: SunChaser

Quick Glance

Smoker Craft, Inc., has made a strong name for itself in this industry by producing several different lines of boats from its Indiana-based plant, including SunChaser pontoons. This impressive line has found its place among the other company brands as a solid, well-priced option with plenty of room to customize your craft to make it your own.

Highlights

What probably jumps out the most when you first come aboard is the roominess. Yes, all pontoon boats are considered roomy and that’s why we love them, but the spaciousness of this 22-footer that is rated for up to 11 passengers is amazing for a boat of this size. If you’re wondering what “PSB” stands for, just look at the first-mate bench seat directly across from the helm console for your hint. The Port Swing Back adds versatility to this seat for both forward- and rear-facing options with great storage below. Pontoons with transforming features are on the rise and it’s nice to see this Geneva as part of that trend. 

On this particular model the optional Executive package has been added to the fiberglass helm. That upgrade includes a raised platform with lights, gauge package, Verona tilt steering wheel, Kicker KMC10 stereo and a high back captain’s chair.

There are a couple of different interior color options available to choose from, but we like the two-tone sand interior that uses a variety of vinyl material and colors to provide a high-end look. It also ties in well with the optional Sea Weave flooring that is not only soft on your feet but easy to clean up. 

There are several chaise lounges on board including one in the bow with a pop-up changing room built into the back on the port side. It stands a respectable 5 feet, 6 inches tall when open and is easy to store when done. 

In the stern the optional extended deck provides extra room and worth noting, the underdeck mounted ski/tow bar is not bolted to the deck so it’s extra sturdy.

Closer Look

With the PTS Performance Package you gain a short third tube as well as lifting strakes on all three pontoons. Our crew rated the quality of construction work high as well as fit and finish and it’s always comforting to know it’s backed by an impressive Lifetime Warranty +6 that includes a limited lifetime warranty on the hull and structure, plus a six-year warranty on all components, carpet, upholstery and electronics.  

Performance

At full throttle with the Yamaha 115hp four-stroke we nearly reached the 30 mph mark. The shorter pony tube is an affordable alternative to a full center tube and the lifting strakes help provide a smooth and comfortable ride. If we had to be picky, a little bigger outboard might be better to get the full potential out of this hull so you might consider going with the maximum 150hp engine. 

Final Thoughts

Without options (and before adding the cost of an engine) you’re looking at a base price of around $26K for the SunChaser, which is actually quite impressive when you consider all you’re getting in return, including the Port Swing Back. However, we like the selected options as tested and feel those additions still make this a great value option for consumers and worthy of a closer look.

New Paris, Ind.
574-831-2103
www.sunchaserboats.com

SPECIFICATIONS
Number of Occupants: 11                 
Price As Tested With Power: $50.1K
Maximum Speed: 28.0 mph               
Wild Ponies: 115 hp   
No. of Gates: 3
0-20 MPH: 7.08 seconds       
Ladder Measurement: 4’ deep

Why we love this boat…Very versatile with just the right mix of options and key features make this SunChaser a solid option for families on the hunt for an affordable pontoon.  

Just being picky…She performs well, but with that massive ski/tow bar and pony tube, we’d recommend going with the maximum 150 horses to increase your fun.  

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Docking Lights, Full Fiberglass Console, AM/FM Stereo, 4 Speakers, 8.5-Foot Bimini Top, Lounge Arm Change Room, Deck Cleats and Windscreen.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

PTS Performance Package (Short Middle Tube w/ Strakes), Executive Helm Package (Gauge Pkg., High Back Helm Chair, Verona Tilt Steering Wheel Raised Helm Platform, Kicker KMC10, Platform Lighting, Trim Gauge), Extreme Steering, Full Sea Weave Flooring, Extended Rear Deck, Stainless Steel Ladder and Underdeck Ski/Tow Bar.

VITAL STATS
LOA: 22’ 10”   
Beam: 8’ 6”
Hull Design: Three Pontoons
Dry Weight: 2,061 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 30 gallons

TEST DRIVE
Engine: Yamaha 115
Cylinder Type: Inline 4
Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower: 109.8ci/115hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio: 2.15:1

RPM     vs.      SPEED    
500                  1.3                 
1000                3.0                 
1500                4.6                 
2000                5.3                 
2500                6.5                 
3000                8.5                 
3500                10.4               
4000                13.2               
4500                16.7   
5000                20.5
5500                22.6
6000                27.9
6200                28.0

PRICE
Price As Tested (Boat and Motor): $50,142
Base Price (Boat only): $26,440

This article originally appeared in our 2020 Shootout issue. If you are interested in seeing more boat tests like this, click HERE to subscribe.