Princecraft’s Copper Special ­Edition package really ups the Vectra 23 RL’s game for 2024. It includes bold copper exterior and interior accents, raised black logo decals, and deluxe driver and passenger seats, each clad with stylish hard-shell backing. Also included are LED lighting below the helm and upholstery, and an upgraded steering wheel and docking lights. The end result is a pontoon boat that punches above its weight class while maintaining a surprisingly affordable price tag.

The 23 RL’s layout is a versatile mix of traditional passenger seating and laid-back lounge options. Parallel bow lounges feature ample storage in the roto-molded bases below. Those Copper Edition chairs cradle the captain and passenger while underway and when they spin around to join the social opportunities provided by an oversize pedestal dining table aft. The versatile Rear Lounge adds more seating on the opposite side of the table. Pivot its backrest forward to create a rear-facing mega-­recliner. An optional perimeter rail allows passengers to use the lounge while underway. A smart addition is that aft and side sections of that rail can pivot down to seat level, allowing passengers easy access to the lounge from the aft platform, as well as revealing the pop-up changing room hidden below.

Our test boat got its go from a ­Mercury 150 XL outboard and featured Princecraft’s Sport pontoon configuration, a blend of the twin-pontoon Speed package and triple-pontoon Performance layout. It had 25-inch pontoons to port and starboard, and a 25-inch center pontoon that ran about two-thirds down the boat’s length as a means to blend performance and affordability. Tube noses are reinforced, lifting strakes are added to all three tubes, and the underside of the deck is covered in an aluminum spray shield. The result was a soft and solid ride, with a touch of inside lean in the corners and predictable control provided by SeaStar hydraulic steering. The combo pushed our test boat immediately onto plane with no significant bow rise. Top speed peaked at 37 mph.

High Points

• Extruded aluminum cross members, full-length keels and full-length skirting.
• Standard ski-pylon base.
• Optional Mood Package adds a bow snack table, glove box, wireless phone charger and removable windscreen.

How We Tested

• Engine: Mercury 150 XL
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 15.3″ x 14″
• Gear Ratio: 2.08:1 Fuel Load: 23 gal.

The post 2024 Princecraft Vectra 23 RL appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

Fish ’n’ fun models are great in theory, but all too often, they fail to live up to their promise. The results are often bowriders with token fishing amenities or fish boats with little extra seating. Princecraft’s Sport 175 excels at the fishing part of the deal, but it demonstrates the ­boatbuilder’s renewed focus on nailing the family aspect. The latter is ­obvious the minute you stand in the cockpit. Rather than the minimally padded jump seats that fish-heavy models all too often provide, the Sport 175 offers up an expansive U-shaped lounge in the main cockpit. A removable pedestal-mounted table is ready when the crew breaks out the snacks and drinks. Similar comfort can be found in the bow, redesigned to offer 30 percent more space than on the previous Sport 172. Yes, it’s still somewhat of a casting platform in disguise, but angular seat cushions allow ­passengers to extend their legs, and padded backrests against both consoles provide comfort. Add the optional filler cushion, and the bow cockpit converts into a playpen or sun bed. 

Interior and Accessories

Remove those bow cushions, and the aforementioned casting platform is revealed. Find an ice chest to one side, a 17-gallon aerated livewell opposite, and a floor mount for one of the boat’s two folding fishing seats. The Sport 175 is pre-wired to accommodate either a 12- or 24-volt MinnKota trolling motor; dedicated deep-cycle battery storage is found below the cockpit sole. Aft, flip the hinged center section of that lounge forward into the cockpit to reveal another elevated casting deck with two additional fishing-seat mounts. Option one of the storage compartments with  livewell plumbing. Rod storage is available both under the port gunwale and in the lockable floor compartment. Likewise, a ­tempered-glass ­walk-through windshield offers weather protection. 

The hull is fabricated from corrosion-resistant, 5052-H36 marine-grade aluminum alloy. Double-plating from the bow to amidships and along the chines adds further durability. In the cockpit, the pressure-treated ­marine ply floor, as well as all flat surfaces, are covered with anti-­skid marine-grade vinyl. As to the ride, our test boat’s Mercury 115 Pro XS powered the hull almost instantly onto plane, past 30 mph in 6.9 seconds, and to a top speed of 42 mph. Underway, the boat’s solid construction contributed to a ride that was both solid and ­quiet. 

Read Next: Princecraft Sport 172 Max

How We Tested

• Engine: Mercury 115 Pro XS
• Drive/Prop: Mercury Spitfire X7 13.5″ x 15″
• Gear Ratio: 2.07:1 Fuel Load: 23 gal.

High Points

• Squaring off the bow delivers the ­running surface of an 18-foot boat in a more compact 17-foot footprint.
• Thoughtful touches include toe kicks, as well as factory-installed snaps for later addition of mooring/camper canvas.
• Optional Techno package includes 160-watt Jensen audio system, LED interior and docking lights, and battery switch.

Low Points

• Full access to port and starboard ­seat-base storage aft requires opening the hinged seatback above.
• This family-friendly model is not as ­fishable as some other boats.

Toughest Competitor

G3’s Angler V178F ($38,395 with Yamaha F115) offers plenty of fishing features but opts for a more traditional, optional jump-seat layout aft. Alumacraft’s Trophy 175 ($44,145 with Mercury 115 PRO-XS) offers a similar layout and features, but it provides for up to two additional fishing seats. Both are fishing boats ready for family duty, but Princecraft’s aft lounge gives it an edge when it comes to comfort.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2024 Princecraft Sport 175 appeared first on Boating Mag.

Princecraft’s Sport 175 delivers a ­fishing-focused aluminum runabout that reflects the manufacturer’s renewed focus on family. Examples of the latter are immediately evident in the bow. Newly redesigned, it offers 30 percent more space than the outgoing Sport 172. Angular seat cushions and padded backrests against the twin consoles invite passengers to stretch out. Add the filler cushion to fashion a large sun bed. Aft, the family focus intensifies. Rather than a trio of transom seats, the 175 debuts a full U-shaped lounge ­surrounding a ­removable pedestal table. It offers room for several more passengers and, more importantly, trades bare-bones jump seats for true relaxation-ready comfort.

Ready to fish? Strip out those bow cushions to expose a large elevated casting deck, with an ice chest to one side, a 17-gallon aerated livewell opposite, and a receptacle for a 12- or 24-volt Minn Kota trolling motor. There’s also a floor mount for one of two pedestal fishing seats. Aft, the dual-purpose theme continues. Flip the hinged center-seat section forward into the cockpit to reveal yet another elevated casting deck, with two additional mounts for pedestal fishing seats. The roto-molded cooler below can be optioned into a livewell. Lockable floor storage is ready to secure skis and wakeboards, or four of your favorite fishing rods. 

Underway, the Sport 175 displays Princecraft’s trademark smooth and solid ride. Credit the reverse-chine hull design and beefy construction. The hull is fashioned from corrosion-resistant 5052-H36 marine-grade ­aluminum ­alloy, double-plated from bow to ­amidships and at the chines to alleviate concerns about waterborne debris or nosing into a rocky beach. The tall tempered-glass windshield spanning the consoles offers protection well into chillier seasons. At the helm, optional SeaStar hydraulic steering provided effortless control of our test boat’s Mercury 115 Pro XS. Other suggested upgrades found aboard included a Simrad GO7 display and a Humminbird GPS/fish finder.

High Points

• Square bow makes garage storage easier.
• Touches include toe kicks and rigging tubes for easy add-ons.
• Techno package includes 160-watt Jensen audio, LED interior and docking lights, and a battery switch.

How We Tested

• Engine: Mercury 115 Pro XS
• Drive/Prop: Mercury Spitfire X7 13.5″ x 15″
• Gear Ratio: 2.07:1 Fuel Load: 23 gal.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2024 Princecraft Sport 175 appeared first on Boating Mag.

Princecraft’s Copper Special ­Edition package really ups the Vectra 23 RL’s game for 2024. It includes bold copper exterior and interior accents, raised black logo decals, and deluxe driver and passenger seats, each clad with stylish hard-shell backing. Also included are LED lighting below the helm and upholstery, and an upgraded steering wheel and docking lights. The end result is a pontoon boat that punches above its weight class while maintaining a surprisingly affordable price tag.

The 23 RL’s layout is a versatile mix of traditional passenger seating and laid-back lounge options. Parallel bow lounges feature ample storage in the roto-molded bases below. Those Copper Edition chairs cradle the captain and passenger while underway and when they spin around to join the social opportunities provided by an oversize pedestal dining table aft. The versatile Rear Lounge adds more seating on the opposite side of the table. Pivot its backrest forward to create a rear-facing mega-­recliner. An optional perimeter rail allows passengers to use the lounge while underway. A smart addition is that aft and side sections of that rail can pivot down to seat level, allowing passengers easy access to the lounge from the aft platform, as well as revealing the pop-up changing room hidden below.

Our test boat got its go from a ­Mercury 150 XL outboard and featured Princecraft’s Sport pontoon configuration, a blend of the twin-pontoon Speed package and triple-pontoon Performance layout. It had 25-inch pontoons to port and starboard, and a 25-inch center pontoon that ran about two-thirds down the boat’s length as a means to blend performance and affordability. Tube noses are reinforced, lifting strakes are added to all three tubes, and the underside of the deck is covered in an aluminum spray shield. The result was a soft and solid ride, with a touch of inside lean in the corners and predictable control provided by SeaStar hydraulic steering. The combo pushed our test boat immediately onto plane with no significant bow rise. Top speed peaked at 37 mph.

High Points

• Extruded aluminum cross members, full-length keels and full-length skirting.
• Standard ski-pylon base.
• Optional Mood Package adds a bow snack table, glove box, wireless phone charger and removable windscreen.

How We Tested

• Engine: Mercury 150 XL
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 15.3″ x 14″
• Gear Ratio: 2.08:1 Fuel Load: 23 gal.

The post 2024 Princecraft Vectra 23 RL appeared first on Boating Mag.

Feature-rich, stylish, sporty and affordable, Princecraft’s Vectra 23 XT rates as a must-see for families looking to spend quality time on the water. Construction includes durable, corrosion-resistant 5052-H36 marine-grade aluminum pontoons with 2 ½-inch heavy-duty extruded Z-aluminum cross channels.

Full-length extruded aluminum keels and a V-shaped aluminum engine pod provide directional stability, while lifting strakes enhanced speed. Our boat had V-hull-like handling thanks to the Sport configuration that includes a bow-central half third log with lifting strakes and a spray shield.

Topside, we found three gates in the 1 ¼-inch anodized aluminum perimeter rail to ease boarding, one each at the stern, bow and port side, each with lift and lock hinges. 

Plush facing loungers in the bow and aft areas provide plenty of room for family and friends to kick back, with tons of storage below each of them. The captain and co-pilot settle into a pair of deluxe, swiveling bucket seats, part of the Silver Premium Classic Edition package that also includes metallic color accents, raised chrome Princecraft logos, chrome dock lights, LED lighting under the helm, an upgraded steering wheel and more.

The roomy aft swim platform, known as the Fun Zone, adds a pair of rear-facing recliners for relaxing while on the anchor, sandbar or beach. There’s cavernous stowage under each. The Fun Zone also includes a stainless-steel telescoping boarding ladder to starboard, and an optional ski pylon can be added to enjoy watersports. A ski locker is available with the Sport or Performance configurations to stow skis, towropes and more.

Need music? Crank up the optional Kicker KMC 100 stereo in the helm console. It pumps out 200 watts through four speakers.

Our 23 XT came with a Mercury 115 Pro XS FourStroke outboard that launched this tritoon from zero to 20 mph in 8 seconds, reaching 30 mph in 11.5 seconds and accelerating to a top speed of 32.5 mph. The boat banked comfortably into turns and smoothly skimmed across the waves.

High Points

• Optional pedestal table lets crew enjoy snacks in the bow area.
• Molded-in drink holders abound.
• Optional storage area under the helm console.
• Bimini top offers plenty of shade.

How We Tested

• Engine: Mercury 115 Pro XS
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Spitfire 13″ x 31″ 4-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 2.33:1 Fuel Load: 25 gal. Crew Weight: 500 lb

Pricing and Specs

Princecraft – Princeville, Quebec, Canada; 800-395-8858; princecraft.com

The post 2023 Princecraft Vectra 23 XT appeared first on Boating Mag.

Feature-rich, stylish, sporty and affordable, Princecraft’s Vectra 23 XT rates as a must-see for families looking to spend quality time on the water. Construction includes durable, corrosion-resistant 5052-H36 marine-grade aluminum pontoons with 2 ½-inch heavy-duty extruded Z-aluminum cross channels.

Full-length extruded aluminum keels and a V-shaped aluminum engine pod provide directional stability, while lifting strakes enhanced speed. Our boat had V-hull-like handling thanks to the Sport configuration that includes a bow-central half third log with lifting strakes and a spray shield.

Topside, we found three gates in the 1 ¼-inch anodized aluminum perimeter rail to ease boarding, one each at the stern, bow and port side, each with lift and lock hinges. 

Plush facing loungers in the bow and aft areas provide plenty of room for family and friends to kick back, with tons of storage below each of them. The captain and co-pilot settle into a pair of deluxe, swiveling bucket seats, part of the Silver Premium Classic Edition package that also includes metallic color accents, raised chrome Princecraft logos, chrome dock lights, LED lighting under the helm, an upgraded steering wheel and more.

The roomy aft swim platform, known as the Fun Zone, adds a pair of rear-facing recliners for relaxing while on the anchor, sandbar or beach. There’s cavernous stowage under each. The Fun Zone also includes a stainless-steel telescoping boarding ladder to starboard, and an optional ski pylon can be added to enjoy watersports. A ski locker is available with the Sport or Performance configurations to stow skis, towropes and more.

Need music? Crank up the optional Kicker KMC 100 stereo in the helm console. It pumps out 200 watts through four speakers.

Our 23 XT came with a Mercury 115 Pro XS FourStroke outboard that launched this tritoon from zero to 20 mph in 8 seconds, reaching 30 mph in 11.5 seconds and accelerating to a top speed of 32.5 mph. The boat banked comfortably into turns and smoothly skimmed across the waves.

High Points

• Optional pedestal table lets crew enjoy snacks in the bow area.
• Molded-in drink holders abound.
• Optional storage area under the helm console.
• Bimini top offers plenty of shade.

How We Tested

• Engine: Mercury 115 Pro XS
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Spitfire 13″ x 31″ 4-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 2.33:1 Fuel Load: 25 gal. Crew Weight: 500 lb

Pricing and Specs

Princecraft – Princeville, Quebec, Canada; 800-395-8858; princecraft.com

The post 2023 Princecraft Vectra 23 XT appeared first on Boating Mag.

Princecraft’s Ventura 23 RL comes as close to an all-purpose boat as you can find. Built from 5025-H36 marine-grade aluminum, this deck boat is great for watersports, fishing and day cruising—and does it with style and comfort.  

RL means rear lounger—a seating area in the stern with a backrest that pivots forward to create an aft-facing lounge. Reverse the backrest to create a forward-facing seat that joins the swiveling helm with companion chairs and a snack table in a social center. Meanwhile, others can relax in the comfy loungers in the bow area. Underneath the loungers you’ll find abundant storage. Below the stern seat, we found the optional marine pump-out head package that includes a pop-up privacy enclosure.

For fishing, our boat featured a pair of swiveling pedestal seats that fit bases on the bow platform and stern deck. A 24-volt Minn Kota Power Drive bow-mount electric trolling motor offers 70 pounds of thrust to sneak along shorelines and cast for bass.  

An optional Simrad Go7 with Total Scan sonar enables you to search deep, and a 20-gallon aerated livewell in the stern lets you take minnows to entice walleyes or keep your catch alive for weigh-in.

Want to enjoy watersports? The available Entertainment Package includes a ski tow bar and starboard-side swim platform with a telescoping stainless-steel boarding ladder. The 23 RL has a standard bolstered captain’s chair. Keep your skis and boards in the lockable in-sole compartment.

Crank up the tunes with the available premium stereo that features an amp, five speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer, all controlled by the Simrad Go7 dash display.

A Mercury 250 V-8 XL outboard delivered plenty of power, featuring digital throttle and shift (DTS) as well as power steering. 

Boasting a high-performance, deep-V hull with reverse chines, the 23 RL rocketed to plane in 3 seconds, reaching 30 mph in 5 seconds, and topping out a 51.5 mph at wide-open throttle while smoothly parting the waves and cornering with confidence.

High Points

• Plush upholstery throughout.
• Double-wide helm and companion chairs. 
• Pedestal table features fold-down sides.
• Wireless phone charger on the helm console.
• Bimini top for shade.

How We Tested

• Engine: Mercury 250 V-8 XL outboard with DTS
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Bravo 1 FS 15.25″ x 19″ 4-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.85:1 Fuel Load: 36 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.

Pricing and Specs

Princecraft – Princeville, Quebec, Canada; 800-395-8858; princecraft.com

The post 2023 Princecraft Ventura 23 RL appeared first on Boating Mag.

The mettle of a pontoon is only as good as the metal used to make it. That’s Princecraft’s position, and so the Canadian builder chooses to form its pontoons and major parts from 5052-H36 aluminum. It provides the best balance of formability, tensile strength, and scratch and impact resistance.

Princecraft offers the Quorum in two pontoon chassis: sport and performance. The sport model uses a center tube about two-thirds the length of the boat and couples it with a wedge-shaped performance engine pod behind it. The design boosts speed and acceleration, but holds the line on weight, making midrange motors a good selection. The performance model has a full-length center tube that increases carrying capacity and performance capabilities with larger engines. 

But for most people, it’s what happens on deck—not below it—that matters most in pontoons. Princecraft’s attention to durable, stylish comfort is just as meticulous as its focus on quality metallurgy, smooth welds and top-quality fasteners. 

Dual lounges forward allow more passengers to sit in comfort upfront, and the weight is supported by either a performance or sport pontoon configuration. 

The captain gets a standard fiberglass console and a bucket captain’s chair. An aft L-shaped lounge is standard, coupled with a midship passenger bucket chair. But a cool option is the aft lounge with a flop-back seat between it and the roomy sun pad. 

Choose that option, and then add the stainless-steel safety rail for good looks and secure riding on the fly. The sun pad is cozy and comfortable for two adults or three kids. A matching stainless-steel ladder is standard on the swim platform, an important convenience and safety feature. It is also appreciated by swimmers and board riders when it’s time to reboard.

A stainless-steel tow pylon is a good option for board sports. An upscale wakeboard tower is an available option and can be equipped with a canvas Bimini top. Princecraft has been in the business of providing fun on the water since 1954, and its stellar reputation in quality construction is proven year after year.

High Points

• Princecraft prides itself in using top-quality, durable 5052-H36 aluminum.
• Fiberglass helm is rot-proof.
• Optional wakeboard tower is a great choice, especially with the Bimini top.

Pricing and Specs

Princecraft Boats – Princeville, Quebec, Canada; 800-395-8858; princecraft.com

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The Sportfisher 23-2S RL is a versatile pontoon you can choose in the classic (and economical) two-tube model with a maximum horsepower capacity of 115. There is also a sport model with a center tube and streamlined engine pod behind it. The latter increases horsepower capacity and performance. 

Choose the sport configuration for optimal performance with a 175 hp engine for crews up to 12. The pontoon chassis includes a two-thirds-length center tube in the front of a wedge-shaped engine pod. The center tube adds buoyancy and helps lift the Sportfisher in the water. The motor pod’s shape guides water to the prop for optimal hookup and control.

The durable 5052-H36 aluminum tubes are joined together and to the deck with Z purlin beams and stainless-steel fasteners.

Topside, high-gloss side panels and silver aluminum gates make a great look that complements the sleek tube-to-deck connection covered by side skirts.

Inside, Princecraft offers dual facing lounges, an aft forward-facing lounge and a picnic table. The passenger bucket seat can swivel aft for playing cards or conversation. A sun pad stretches out behind the back lounge, giving sunbathers a comfortable spot to relax. The aft lounge’s back can be pushed forward, turning the sun pad into a double-wide, chaise-style lounge. It’s a great spot to hang out and watch the kids swim while at anchor, or opt for the stainless-steel guard rail and the sun-pad lounge for a comfortable place to enjoy the performance-pontoon ride. 

There’s a fiberglass helm station that pampers the captain with a high-back, spring-suspension easy chair with adjustable armrests.

The Sportfisher looks like a luxury pontoon, which it is, but it’s also an ideal fishing platform. The forward gate is designed to close over a retracted trolling motor; flanking it are two fishing chairs, each with its own tackle station and rod holders. A large aerated livewell is optionally available to keep bait or your catch lively. Watersports, fishing and comfortable cruising are all well in hand with the Sportfisher 23-2S RL.

High Points

• Princecraft uses only the highest grade 5052-H36 aluminum.
• Large swim platform with boarding ladder doubles as a casting platform.
• Standard 29-gallon fuel tank extends range.

Pricing and Specs

Princecraft Boats – Princeville, Quebec, Canada; 800-395-8858; princecraft.com

The post 2022 Princecraft Sportfisher 23-2S RL appeared first on Boating Mag.

The mettle of a pontoon is only as good as the metal used to make it. That’s Princecraft’s position, and so the Canadian builder chooses to form its pontoons and major parts from 5052-H36 aluminum. It provides the best balance of formability, tensile strength, and scratch and impact resistance.

Princecraft offers the Quorum in two pontoon chassis: sport and performance. The sport model uses a center tube about two-thirds the length of the boat and couples it with a wedge-shaped performance engine pod behind it. The design boosts speed and acceleration, but holds the line on weight, making midrange motors a good selection. The performance model has a full-length center tube that increases carrying capacity and performance capabilities with larger engines. 

But for most people, it’s what happens on deck—not below it—that matters most in pontoons. Princecraft’s attention to durable, stylish comfort is just as meticulous as its focus on quality metallurgy, smooth welds and top-quality fasteners. 

Dual lounges forward allow more passengers to sit in comfort upfront, and the weight is supported by either a performance or sport pontoon configuration. 

The captain gets a standard fiberglass console and a bucket captain’s chair. An aft L-shaped lounge is standard, coupled with a midship passenger bucket chair. But a cool option is the aft lounge with a flop-back seat between it and the roomy sun pad. 

Choose that option, and then add the stainless-steel safety rail for good looks and secure riding on the fly. The sun pad is cozy and comfortable for two adults or three kids. A matching stainless-steel ladder is standard on the swim platform, an important convenience and safety feature. It is also appreciated by swimmers and board riders when it’s time to reboard.

A stainless-steel tow pylon is a good option for board sports. An upscale wakeboard tower is an available option and can be equipped with a canvas Bimini top. Princecraft has been in the business of providing fun on the water since 1954, and its stellar reputation in quality construction is proven year after year.

High Points

• Princecraft prides itself in using top-quality, durable 5052-H36 aluminum.
• Fiberglass helm is rot-proof.
• Optional wakeboard tower is a great choice, especially with the Bimini top.

Pricing and Specs

Princecraft Boats – Princeville, Quebec, Canada; 800-395-8858; princecraft.com

The post 2022 Princecraft Quorum 25 RL appeared first on Boating Mag.