Our First Impression
We appreciate the open layout. We fully understand the value
of having a sport package. And we get that this pontoon is built with the same
high standards as other Godfrey Marine models. However, what we don't
understand is how this boat still comes in at around $25K. Yes, it's part of
the Sweetwater value line, but a three-logged pontoon at this great price? Very
impressive.
Consumer Test
We love the attractive look of the two-tone tan and blue
seats. The durable GX48 vinyl is a staple for all Godfrey Marine boats and the
overall comfort is good. As you enter the boat from the bow you'll notice the
extra-wide, wheelchair accessible gate that includes the unique no-rattle latch
system that locks tight. But arguably the real eye-catcher on this 22-foot
pontoon is the contour look of the helm station that flows well with the
design.
The actual helm console itself is a little square and basic,
but for a value-driven pontoon we like that it comes with full instrumentation,
easy-to-read Faria gauges as well as a Jensen stereo. For the captain, the helm
seat slides and swivels and is actually quite comfortable for a non-reclining
seat.
If we had to be picky we'd like to see a rail around the
sundeck in the stern, or at least a bolstered edge for added safety. But we
like the storage room below that doubles as a nice six-foot pop-up changing
enclosure when fully opened. Also inside is the battery storage that really
could use a cover or lid, but again we're just being picky.
Included in this rear-entry design is a fold-down boarding
ladder with good handholds, and one of the few options is the solid ski/tow bar
that we feel should be included on most pontoons, if not all of them.
Inspection Test
Measuring at 24 inches in diameter, the three pontoon setup
is the solid base of this boat. And because the fuel tank is built into the
center log, you get extra stability and better handling on the water as well,
but we'll get to that in a minute. There are lifting strakes on the center
pontoon and on the outside of the other two. The C-channel cross-members are
screwed to the plywood deck and are on 24-inch centers in the bow and a little
closer near the stern for added support. We felt the boat was especially well-constructed
below deck as it earned high marks for craftsmanship.
Up top there is over 14 feet of usable deck space from
inside the bow gate to the rear bench seat. The wiring below the helm console
is average, but overall the boat earned high marks for fit and finish
work.
Performance Test
Three pontoons, an Evinrude 115 E-TEC and a solid ski/tow
bar!? Don't let the price fool you, this `toon was built to really move. She's
very responsive and fun to drive. The 22-footer does lean a little in the sharp
turns, but we were able to reach our top speed of 36 miles per hour very
quickly. The E-TEC is a perfect match for this Sweetwater that demands
performance, but on a value budget.
Who Should Buy It
Priced just right for a lot of families, we love the value
that is offered in this Sweetwater. This is an attractive pontoon with a nice
open layout that performs well and has just enough bells and whistles to still
be considered a fun, family boat.
Number of Occupants 14
Price As Tested With Power $25.2K
Maximum Speed: 36.1
mph
Wild Ponies: 115hp
No. of Gates 3
0-20 MPH 6.7
seconds
Ladder Measurement: 2'
9" deep
Why we love this boat.The most attractive
feature of this three-pontoon, well-built boat just might be the price. Proving
the dollar can go far in this economy is the backbone of the Sweetwater line.
Just being picky.Not having a safety rail around the sundeck
isn't a big deal, but it could be a concern for some families. We also noted a
lack of pinch guards on some of the gates.
NOTABLE STANDARDS
Color-coordinated
canopy, GX48 expanded vinyl, Jensen stereo w/CD, MP3 input and 2 speakers,
stern table w/cup holders and stern sundeck.
OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT
Triple
tube sport package, in-dash depth finder, removable cup holders, changing room,
ski/tow bar, Jensen stereo upgrade with CD/MP3 input and four speakers.
VITAL STATS
LOA 22'
Beam 8'
6"
Hull Design Three
Pontoons
Dry Weight 2,025
lbs.
Fuel Capacity 29
Gallons
TEST DRIVE
Engine Evinrude E-TEC 115
Cylinder Type V4
Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower 105.4ci/115hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio 2.25:1
Propeller 13 7/8 X
13
RPM vs. SPEED
vs. D-A
500 2.4 mph 74.5
1000 3.7
mph 75.5
1500 58 mph 83.5
2000 7.5
mph 84.5
2500 10.1
mph 83
3000 15.5
mph 87
3500 15.9
mph 92.5
4000 18.5
mph 95.5
4500 20.8
mph 97.5
5000 25.6
mph 104
5500 33.8
mph 103.5
5600 36.1
mph 102
Elkhart, Ind.
Phone: 574-522-8381
Website: www.GodfreyPontoonBoats.com
