Although one can buy the Princecraft Vectra 25 RL for $22,283 (plus freight and prep charges) powered by a 40 hp outboard, we found it provided good fun and peppy performance fitted with a 150 hp Mercury FourStroke. So powered, we attained a top speed of over 38 mph and accelerated from zero to 30 mph in 11.7 seconds. We can already hear the kids you’ll tow on the tube behind the boat laughing with delight.
Step aboard and you’ll note that Princecraft created a pontoon of distinction when it built the 2019 Vectra 25 RL. We immediately noticed the charcoal color of the seat bases, a refreshing and sharp-looking change from the de rigueur tan seat bases on most pontoon boats. Gravitating to the helm, we appreciated the new console, which featured a handy stowage slot located just beneath the engine-control lever — right where it’s needed for smartphones, wallets and more. Racy gauges installed in black inserts coexist with illuminated accessory switches and the control head for the booming 160-watt AM/FM/Bluetooth Jensen stereo with integrated auxiliary input. A swiveling captain’s chair, smoke-colored windshield and 12-volt receptacle complete the helm.
We also applauded the new aft arrangement, which features a triple-wide lounge to port and a wide walkway to the broad swim platform. While this configuration will prove fantastic while anchored at the cove, the utility of it doesn’t stop there. The backrest flip-flops so that when you’re done with it flipped back, you can flop it forward to create a bench seat that faces aft. If you order the Dinette Package, the portside companion swivel seat is replaced by a cooler seat (also with a flip-flop backrest). Now four people can sit around the table that also comes with the package. Or you can have two rows of people facing forward. Or some can sit in the cockpit while others recline on the aft lounge. Pretty slick, Princecraft.
For 2019 Princecraft also offers a choice of floor coverings for this pontoon, as well as a classy domed logo in chrome to accent the side rails. See it for yourself.
High Points
- Aft configuration provides multiple ways to seat your crew.
- Sealed pontoon bulkheads and heavy-duty Z-channel construction foster confidence.
- The new console and gray seat bases will wow you.
Price: $22,283 (base with 40 hp Mercury)
How We Tested
Engine: Mercury 150 hp FourStroke
Drive/Prop: Outboard/15″ x 15″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.92:1
Fuel Load: 31 gal.
Crew Weight: 500 lb.
Princecraft Boats – Princeville, Quebec, Canada; 800-395-8858; princecraft.com
