Boat Test Monday: Manitou Explore 24 MAX

First Impression
Last year, BRP launched its award-winning Manitou Explore line and Rotax S outboard engine for an amazing pairing. For model year 2024, the all-new Manitou Explore MAX dual engine models are being released in 24- and 26-foot lengths with twice the power, thanks to twin Rotax S150 outboards.







Highlights
We'll get to the dual engines shortly, but what's above those partially submerged engines is what first caught our attention. The new MAX deck platform is 2 feet longer than the original version and slightly elevated, providing more than 6 feet of usable, unobstructed space at the stern. It's an exclusive deck, only available on Manitou pontoons powered with Rotax outboard engines. There are also two LinQ accessory receivers on this massive swim deck so you can easily secure a cooler. In fact, the entire boat is loaded with LinQ accessories including an easy-to-use fender kit, and removable cupholders found practically everywhere.

With powder-coated aluminum walls, the exterior has a timeless and modern vibe, and we love the style line the tower creates to give it a very distinctive look. Speaking of stylish, the  bow features built-in LED lighting for its navigation and docking lights to provide even more character to the exterior.

Inside the boat, the cool-touch Simtex vinyl complements the versatility of the switchback seating that easily converts bench seats into rear-facing loungers. We also can appreciate the functionality of the trifold bench. There are two on board and each gives you three functions in one. The bench section can be converted into a table or completely folded up to free up additional space.

The 12-inch Garmin touchscreen helps the modern-looking dash make the jump to an all digital dash, eliminating the need for analog gauges. Another added touch is the dash cubby with a wireless phone charger inside, which is located just above the Fusion sound system controls. Behind the dual throttles are the iDock controls. This is a fully integrated joystick piloting system that makes docking simple. The intuitive piloting system puts advanced aircraft Gyroscope sensor technology at the fingertips of boaters of all experience levels.

Overall the layout is beautifully symmetrical from bow to stern, and that includes the helm stand directly across from the captain that ties in perfectly while also providing a locking glove box. 

Closer Look
The V-Toon hull with a 27-inch diameter center tube that reaches 5 and 1/4 inches lower than the 25-inch diameter outside tubes are the base of this Manitou. The performance hull includes six lifting strakes and it pairs nicely with the pair of Rotax outboards.

Throttle Down
Rigged with dual Rotax S150’s, the twin setup offers the same key benefits of a single Rotax S including better fuel economy, less emissions, reduced noise, and ease of maintenance. At full throttle we reached a top speed in the mid 40s and with the hull we were able to dive into some sharp turns with ease.

Why Buy
This Explore MAX is dialed in and it helps that all of its unique features such as the large stern deck, iDock joystick piloting, aluminum side panels, versatile layout, LinQ accessories, etc., are all standard with no options. Simply put, what you see is what you get and we see a modern-looking beauty.

Lansing, Michigan
888-272-9222
www.manitoupontoonboats.com

Number Of Occupants            10                 
Price As Tested With Power   123.8K
Maximum Speed                     44.7 mph                   
Wild Ponies                             300hp
No. Of Gates                          2
0-20 MPH                               7.3 seconds   
Ladder Measurement             48” deep

Why we love this boat…Truly a high-end, modern-looking dual engine boat that is loaded with standard features, yet comes in at a solid price point providing amazing added value.

Just being picky...The switchback seating adds versatility, but the actual seats felt a little stiff and were slightly rigid-looking. 

NOTABLE STANDARDS
Formed Aluminum Walls, 100% Composite Decking, 12’ Sport Bimini, Gas-Assisted Black Powder Coated Tubes, LED Lights (Navigation, Interior Flooring & Docking), Saltwater Pkg., Dual Rear Switchback Loungers, Trifold Bench (Port & Starboard), High Back Helm Chair w/Bolster, Woven Vinyl Flooring, Simtex Marine Vinyl, Center In Tube Storage w/Lights, Rear Stereo Remote, Subwoofer & 8-Channel Amp, iDock Joystick Piloting, Bow & Stern Pop-Up Cleats, Privacy Station Curtain, Wireless Charging Pad, Passenger USB Charging Ports, Mooring Cover, Ski/Tow Pylon, Telescoping Boarding Ladder, Windscreen, Digital Power Steering, LinQ Accessories (Fender Kit, 2 Modular Cargo Boxes, 4 Cupholders, 4 Stemware Holders, 2 Single Holder, 2 Multi Holder) and LinQ 13.5-Gal. Cooler.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT
None

VITAL STATS
LOA                  28’ 4”             
Beam                 8’ 6”
Hull Design       V-Toon
Dry Weight       4,406 lbs.
Fuel Capacity    90 gallons

TEST DRIVE
Engine                                                 Dual Rotax S150
Cylinder Type                                     3 Cylinders
Displacement/Horsepower                  1.9L/150hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio                       2.08:1
Propeller                                              14.5 X 21

RPM    vs.       SPEED              vs.      DB-A
1000                4.2                   79.5
1500                6.5                   83
2000                8.3                   83
2500                9.2                   86.5
3000                11.7                 91
3500                17.0                 97.5
4000                21.7                 99
4500                32.1                 100
5000                36.4                 101.5
5500                44.7                 100.5

PRICE
Price As Tested                       $123,799
(Boat & Engines)