Boat Test Monday: Tahoe Cascade

First Impression
The Tahoe pontoon is in the spotlight for being one of the first manufacturers to be paired with the new Honda BF350 V8, but don't let that overshadow just how impressive the total package really is. With a modern vibe and a sporty look, the latest offering from the Michigan-based manufacturer is going to attract massive attention on the water.

Highlights
Tahoe has updated its logo for 2024, and the badging combined with the matte black exterior walls give the boat a fresh look. Inside, we love the symmetrical layout that starts in the bow with two chaise lounges, dual helm stands and adjustable helm chairs for the captain and first-mate, and then continues to the stern with two more lounges. The sporty EX Tower with Fusion can speakers are both options, but could be considered must-haves as they truly tie in the symmetrical look.





The Ensign III helm stand has been redesigned using Tahoe's exclusive Enduro Flex Form Technology, which is a modern take on Rotocast, which allows the builder to produce a high quality and durable helm stand without sacrificing function or aesthetics. The dash is centered on a large touchscreen for all your key information and a Garmin GPS Map offset to the right. On the port side of the three-spoke steering wheel are the controls to the Fusion Audio Gold Plus sound system with push buttons below, and on the other side is a wireless charging pad that keeps your phone out of the sun.

A low profile and tinted wraparound windshield ties the two helmstands together, and the first-mate side includes a large locking glove box –  something we like to see on all boats. We also feel every boat should have a trash can, and this one is located under the first-mate helmstand. To access it, you just lift the port side backrest. Other highlights include an in-floor ski locker, a four-step boarding ladder, and a ski/tow bar that should see plenty of good use with the new Honda.

Closer Look
The triple 27-inch diameter pontoons include lifting strakes on all three tubes, a full aluminum Waveshield, and heavy-duty, double-bolted hat channel cross members that provide added strength below. Above deck, the rail height is a consistent 24 inches tall for a safe and family-friendly design.

Throttle Down
The BF350 V8 is Honda's newly developed 5-liter-displacement block with a fully balanced, 60-degree offset crankshaft that uses the same alloy and strength specifications as the engine in its Acura NSX high-performance supercar. VTEC technology delivers a low vibration with a great torque curve for peak power at all RPMs. We easily reached 50 mph at full throttle after recording a zero-to-20 mph time of just 4.6 seconds. It's easy to see why Honda wanted to pair it with Tahoe's Waveglider hull.

Why Buy
With Tahoe you never have to worry about the quality or construction work. The craftsmanship is always top-notch and the amenities ensure you stay comfortable out on the water while looking good doing it.

Alma, Michigan
800-334-2913
www.tahoepontoons.com

Number Of Occupants                       17                   
Price As Tested With Power               $109K
Maximum Speed                                51.9mph                     
Wild Ponies                                        800hp
No. Of Gates                                      2
0-20 MPH                                          4.6  seconds   
Ladder Measurement                         4’ deep

Why we love this boat...The symmetrical layout with a sporty and modern vibe are a great platform for the new Honda 350 V8. This is a great pairing for the Waveglider hull.

Just being picky...Love that this boat has a trash can, but it's under the first-mate helmstand and isn't the easiest to access. However, you just need to lift off the seat back cushion, which isn't a big deal. 

NOTABLE STANDARDS
Newly Redesigned Ensign III Helmstand and Fusion Audio Gold Plus Sound System (RA-670, 8 Speakers & Amp).

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT
Platinum Edition Includes All of Tahoe Premium Upgrades In 1 Package, Interior/EXT Blue Lights, EX Tower, Can Speakers and Ski Locker.

VITAL STATS
LOA                  26’ 6” 
Beam                 8’ 6”
Hull Design       Triple 27” (Waveglider)
Dry Weight        3,200 lbs.
Fuel Capacity    100 gallons

TEST DRIVE
Engine                                                 Honda 350
Cylinder Type                                     V8
Displacement/Horsepower                 5L/350hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio                       1.79:1
Propeller                                             16 X 17

RPM    vs.      SPEED              vs.     DB-A
  750                1.8                   67.5
1000                4.6                   73.5
1500                7.1                   84
2000                9.6                   87.5
2500                15                    89
3000                20.1                 92
3500                25                    94.5
4000                31.25               96
4500                35.9                 96
5000                42.1                 20.2
5500                47                    101.5
5800                51.9                 105.5

PRICE
Price As Tested                       $109,000
(Boat & Engine)

Base Price
(Boat & Std. Engine)              $63,500