PDB Shootout: SunChaser Geneva 22 SB

First Impression

For the new model year, the Geneva series received a facelift that includes new exterior and interior designs, yet still provides tremendous value. Of course our favorite new feature is the innovative ski/tow that immediately caught our attention.

Details

For a price-driven model we were pleasantly surprised with just how much this 22-footer has to offer, including a ski/tow bar that has been incorporated into the exterior rail to create a sleek and stylish look. The design includes two stern gates for an extremely safe design and almost looks like a work of art with its black finish. We tip our hat to the SunChaser engineers for coming up with a unique way to include a ski/tow. We also like having the extra space on the stern deck to towel off before coming inside the gates after using the stainless boarding ladder.

Moving forward from the stern is a rear flip-back lounger that converts your traditional L-shaped bench seating into an aft-facing lounger. There is also a rear-facing chaise lounge directly across from the helm and then two more chaises in the bow with a pop-up changing room built into the back of the portside one. The enclosure stands at just over 5 feet tall when open and provides you with a place to change without giving up any seating. If we’re being picky, we wish this pop-up changing room was a little taller so more people could use it, but again it’s nice that it’s included in the long list of standard features. 

At the newly designed helm are two multi-function chrome bezel gauges in the center with access to your Jensen stereo as well as the two rows of lighted rocker switches below. There is even a small cubby at the helm for your smaller items, which is something we always like to see.

We counted nearly a dozen cupholders on board, which basically breaks down to one for every person this boat is rated for. The recessed ones in the seats are especially nice because the location keeps your drink out of the sun.

Key options include Infinity Teak Weave vinyl flooring, a power Bimini top and black anodized rails for a complete high-end look at a value-driven price and overall we like the balance of options and standard features as tested.

Closer Look

Below deck the three round pontoons are the base of this boat with lifting strakes on all three. Our crew rated the quality of construction work high as well as fit and finish, and it’s always comforting to know it’s backed by an impressive Lifetime Warranty +6 that includes a limited lifetime warranty on the hull and structure, plus a six-year warranty on all components, flooring, upholstery and electronics.

Throttle Down

Powered with a Yamaha 90hp four-stroke we reached a top speed of 30 miles per hour after a 0-to-20 mph time of just over 7 seconds. For a 90hp engine we were impressed with the performance kick, but you could go as high as a 150hp outboard if you wanted a little more. 

Why Buy

It seems the two qualities consumers are searching for more than ever these days are added value for the price and a multi-function layout. The Geneva 22 SB checks a lot of boxes and provides you with many unique features not typically found in a pontoon in this price range.




New Paris, Ind.
574-831-2103
www.sunchaserboats.com

Number of Occupants: 11                   
Price As Tested With Power: $44.7K
Maximum Speed: 27.7 mph                     
Wild Ponies: 90 hp 
No. of Gates: 3
0-20 MPH: 7.4 seconds     
Ladder Measurement: 4’ deep

Why we love this boat… A fun layout with innovative styling and the right mix of features and options for a great all-around family boat. 

Just being picky… Especially with little kids it’s nice to have a pop-up changing room onboard so we like that it has one, but just wish it was taller than 5 feet, 4 inches when open.   

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Rear Flip-Back Seating, Hull Fiberglass Console, Premium Upholstery and Telescoping Ladder.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

Rear Rail Enclosure Package (Ski/Tow Bar, Extended Deck),Teak Weave Floor, Power Bimini and Black Anodized Rails.

VITAL STATS

LOA: 22’ 10”           
Beam: 8’ 6”
Hull Design: Triple Pontoons
Dry Weight: 2,061 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 38 gallons



TEST DRIVE

Engine: Yamaha 90
Cylinder Type: Inline 4
Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower: 109.8ci/90hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio: 2.15:1
Propeller: 13 5/8 X 14

RPM     vs.      SPEED     vs.    DB-A

900                  1.2                   73
1000                2.0                   73.5
1500                4.0                   77.5
2000                5.4                   83.5
2500                6.4                   80
3000                8.0                   82
3500                9.8                   87.5
4000                15.0                 90.54500                19.0                 96
5000                23.8                 96.5
5500                27.2                 97
6000                30.2                 100

PRICE

Price As Tested: $44,706
(Boat and Motor)

Base Price: $36,378
(Boat w/60hp)

This article originally appeared in our 2021 Shootout issue. If you are interested in seeing more boat tests like this, click HERE to subscribe.