Tahoe Pontoons 2285 LTZ CRB

October 2016 Boat Test Monday PDB Staff

This article originally appeared in our 2016 Shootout issue. If you are interested in seeing more stories like this, click HERE to subscribe.

Three Things

While the budget-friendly price and the spacious layout are the highlights, it’s the rear-facing bench seat and large swim deck area that deserve some added attention.

Breakdown

We did a double take when we first heard this great all-around pontoon comes in close to $30K as tested. Yes, we knew heading into our test that this model is considered value-driven, but we were still pleasantly surprised with all this Tahoe has to offer.

Starting at the helm, the “torpedo” style gauges look great and remind us of those used on classic cars back in the day. The upgraded Infinity Bluetooth stereo controls are located below on the left of the dash and on the opposite side are well-labeled rocker switches. Also for the captain is a comfy helm chair and included with this layout are three chaise lounges, two in the bow and one directly across from the helm.

Even though this boat comes in at a lower price point, we love that it still includes the manufacturer’s exclusive Matrix 50 soft touch seat vinyl as well as the padded Silver Compass Luna flooring. Both are considered a great added touch and help give the boat a clean look and feel. Also worth mentioning, extra cupholders are built into the stylish seat bases so your drinks will ride close to the floor and stay out of the wind.

CRB stands for Cruise Bench, which is really the focal point of this pontoon. The patio-like swim deck outside the stern gate is one of the largest we’ve seen and is perfect for swimmers or for lounging at the local sandbar. The rear-facing bench has a porch feel to it and below is another great storage area for smaller water toys or for your rope and docking fenders. There is also a ski/tow bar, plus a three-step boarding ladder.

Outside the boat the Deco 4 external multi-panel walls complete the look and also include flat graphic logos and a reflective shield that helps the boat be more visible, especially at night. There are also corner castings on all four corners, plus a nice rubrail around the perimeter. One other key feature is the 10-foot Bimini top that covers a good portion of the boat.

Inspection

With the Express Package you gain a three-quarter center pontoon with lifting fins and all three tubes are 25 inches in diameter and are connected to the deck using .190 gauge hat-shaped cross members and there is also the optional WaveShield that helps improve performance.

Onboard there are three gates and from the bow gate to the rear bench seat there is over 13 feet of usable deck space. The rail height varies from 24 inches tall to over 26 inches for the majority of the boat.

Handling

We were excited to finally have a chance to test out the new Honda 100hp four-stroke and it didn’t disappoint. We easily cruised to a top speed near 30 miles per hour and feel it’s a great pairing for this Tahoe. She turns flat and rides smooth, which means you’ll get good use out of the massive ski/tow bar in the stern.

Final Thoughts

It’s funny to think that 10 or so years ago this model as tested probably would have been considered a high-end ‘toon because of key features like the soft woven vinyl flooring, high-quality seats with a huge swim deck and bench seat. Today it’s known as a value-driven model since this manufacturer offers its own line of luxurious boats, but to us we just see a great pontoon that should help get others into boating.

2016 Boat Specifications

Number of Occupants 10

Maximum Speed 28.2 mph

Wild Ponies 100 hp

No. of Gates 3

0-20 MPH 5.76 seconds

Ladder Measurement 2’ 7” deep

Why we love this boat…We can’t say enough good things about the large swim deck. This is a great area that is going to get plenty of good use.

Just being picky…Even with the conservative layout and design, it would be nice to add a little splash of color to the interior.

PDB Days Reader Choice Feedback

It has a spacious layout with just the right amount of amenities.

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Cadet fiberglass helm stand w/ greywood panels, Milennia MILPRV21 BT stereo, 4 stereo speakers, black soft-grip steering wheel, Deco 4 external multi-panel walls, flat graphic logos, courtesy light on helm stand, USCG nav. lights, round Roto table, exclusive Matrix 50 soft touch seat vinyl, lounge arms w/ flip-up storage, suspension seating, lifetime aluminum seat frames, flow-thru ventilation, decorative color-matched seat frame cladding, integrated cup holders, vinyl rear deck flooring w/ Diamond carpet interior, Bimini top w/ heavy-duty square anodized aluminum frame, and SST quick-release bracket, tapered front deck, extended rear deck and vinyl non-skid strips for entry gates.