Our First Impression
We can't blame JC for wanting to show off its new blue
paneling; in fact, we kind of like the red, white and blue patriotic feel to this
boat. Add the new contour exterior railings and this is far from the ancient
days where pontoons were considered boxy. JC seems to thrive on creating sporty
pontoons that are unique and stylish.
Consumer Test
It all starts at the helm, and we love the sporty, silver console
with easy-to-read gauges, iPod connector, two 12-volt outlets, the latest
Clarion CMD6 CD player and a Humminbird 788ci internal GPS unit. Plus, for
years we've been praising the breathable Visionaire mesh helm seat with flip-up
bolster for the captain, so we of course love this option.
This boat doesn't lack storage, that's for sure. Besides the
normal under-seat storage, there is also a long in-floor ski locker, complete
with a mat and bilge pump, that helps keep the clutter of tubes, skis and
wakeboards off the deck. We also like the designated fender storage just
forward of the helm that keeps them accessible, yet is not a focal point of the
boat.
Opposite of the starboard "love seat" upfront is one of the
three chaise lounges onboard. What's unique about these lounges is the movable
armrest as well as a head rest. And in the stern, the rear-facing lounges
actually extend out an extra five inches to really add to the comfort of this
setup.
Both double gate entries in the bow and stern were designed
to really show off the contour and give the `toon a sporty look. The downside is
the low gates that are less than two feet tall, but we like that JC recognized
the potential concern and offers a movable "jump seat" bench seat that fits
perfectly on either end. This eliminates any safety issues, but the drawback is
that this bench blocks your path to the rear platforms.
We love the vinyl swim deck area that just screams sandbar.
Complete with cup holders and even two rear-facing speakers, the double swim
platforms are going to be a favorite spot when beached. There are even two
12-volt outlets in the stern so you can air up those water toys from the rear
deck. With a stereo remote this area would be perfect.
Worth noting is the very accessible helm station that can be
raised up to easily get to the console wiring. There is nothing that even comes
close in comparison in this industry.
Inspection Test
Three 24-inch by 25-inch diameter, high-volume U-shaped
pontoons are the base for this 25-foot boat, and the lifting fins on the inside
of the outer tubes and on both sides of the center pontoon are nicely welded.
The Z-shaped cross members are on 16-inch centers and are screwed to the
plywood deck and the splash skin fully covers the bottom. The transom is well-braced
and heavily constructed. Up top there is over 18 feet of usable deck space from
inside the bow gate to the rear bench.
Performance Test
To say it turns on a dime might be an understatement. We
were very impressed by its turning radius as she banked beautifully in very
sharp turns. With the Honda 225hp we comfortably passed the 40-mile-per-hour
mark, and the overall performance put big smiles on our faces.
Who Should Buy It
Destined to be the hit of the party at a sandbar near you,
this unique and stylish JC has a lot of neat features and well-thought-out
amenities that a lot of people will not only enjoy, but also appreciate.
North Webster, Ind.
Phone: 574-834-2881
Website: www.jcpontoon.com
