Montego Bay ST8524 RFL Deluxe Cruise Sport Toon

July 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

We love the rear loungers, great mix of options and standard features as well as the overall inviting layout.

Breakdown

While parent company Northport Marine, LLC (who also manufactures MirroCraft aluminum boats) goes back nearly 60 years, we sometimes forget that Montego Bay only introduced its first pontoon boat in the fall of 2012. The reason we tend to overlook this short time frame is because this manufacturer has been quick to catch on as well as catch up with the rest in the industry.

For 2016, Montego Bay is releasing 14 new 24-foot models, which are two feet longer than its largest model offered before this year. With the additional space, new floorplans have been developed including this Rear Facing Lounger (RFL) addition. Both lounges are extremely comfortable and as an added bonus there is storage space below.

At the helm, the dash is centered around an Evinrude BRP G2 digital multi-functioning gauge with rocker switches on the right of the console as well as depth finder, and the Jensen stereo controls on the left. We also like the 12-volt outlet as well as USB/Auxiliary port so you can bring your favorite tunes with you. If we had to be picky we’d like to see a designated holder to keep your devices in place while plugged in, but other than that we really like this console.

While having a comfy helm chair that slides, swivels and reclines is important, we feel it’s equally important that your first mate is comfortable too and that’s why the identical helm chair across from the driver is a great added touch.

Rounding out the comfort, in the bow are two deluxe chaise lounges with storage below and built into the back of the portside chaise is a pop-up changing room that stands over 5 feet tall when open.

Stainless steel hardware is used throughout the boat to complete the well-built look and also worth noting is the optional LED lighting that really brings out the high-end feel at night.

Inspection

There are lifting strakes on both sides of all three pontoons that are 25 inches in diameter and the 3-inch C channel chassis are all bolted for added strength. Up top the entire boat is covered with teak and holly vinyl flooring and from the bow gate to the stern gate there is around 21 feet of usable deck space on this over 25-foot model. Outside the stern gate is a decent-sized swim deck with a four-step stainless steel boarding ladder. Really all that is missing is some type of a ski/tow bar, which is available as an option. Let’s be honest: with that powerful engine on the back you’ll probably want to add something for the water sports enthusiast in your group.

From a safety standpoint, this Montego Bay earned high marks for many reasons including the powder-coated rails that stand a very family-friendly height of 28 inches tall around the perimeter of the entire boat.

Handling

She’s extremely quick to plane and a lot of the credit goes to the 200hp Evinrude G2 on the back. We nearly reached the 50-mile-per-hour mark at full throttle and the hydraulic steering not only made it easy to drive, but a lot of fun as well.

Final Thoughts

It’s amazing the different floorplans and options that have become available for Montego Bay by extending its line of pontoons and offering 24-foot models like this RFL Deluxe Cruise Sport Toon. There is a high-end feel to the interior that invites you in and allows you to really get comfortable.

2016 Boat Specifications

Number of Occupants 12

Maximum Speed 47.2 mph

Wild Ponies 200 hp

No. of Gates 4

0-20 MPH 4.19 seconds

Ladder Measurement 4’ 2” deep

Why we love this boat…The focus of this model is on the rear-facing lounges and rightfully so—they’re extremely comfortable—but there is actually a lot to love on this ‘toon.

Just being picky… The helm console has the electronic hookups needed to power your music and phone, but lacks a designated place for your device while plugged in.

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Built-in changing room, 10-foot Bimini, aluminum skinned bottom, hydraulic steering, lifting strakes, stereo, changing room, King’s chair, 3/4-inch marine grade plywood bolted to the 3-inch C channel.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

Powder-coated rails, teak and holly vinyl floor, docking lights, stainless steel console door, upgraded Jensen panel stereo w/ lighted speakers, digital depth gauge, stainless ladder upgrade, battery charger, interior and exterior mood lighting, upgraded helm chairs and cover.