Boat Test: 2026 Revel RS25L

Overview

The Revel RS25L shatters expectations of what a pontoon can be. It’s a high-performance watercraft that accelerates like a Ferrari, turns like a Porsche, and delivers the smooth ride of a luxury SUV. The Revel RS25L combines the spacious comfort of a pontoon with the exhilarating performance of a sport boat. Underneath all of it lies the pedigree of parent company, Correct Craft. 

Engine

At the heart of this vessel lies an innovative tri-toon design with a game-changing twist. The center tube features a V-bottom hull with a step bottom and performance pad. Push the throttle forward and at approximately 35 mph, the boat breaks loose and steps up onto that pad, lifting the outer tubes, reducing drag , and surging forward with acceleration reminiscent of that delivered when the secondaries open on a Holley four-barrel carburetor. During our testing with a Mercury 400 hp outboard, the RS25L rocketed to 20 mph in just 6.1 seconds and hit 30 mph in 10 seconds flat. Top speed is an impressive 53.4 mph at 6,250 rpm, while the most economical cruise posted at 38.6 mph at 4,500 rpm, burning 20 gph.

If you were looking for a head-to-head competitor for the Revel, you’d find it hard to capture one with that triple tube, step-in-the-center tube design. The Harris Crowne 250 ($293,378 with the Mercury 400 Verado) is one to run with the Revel in terms of unique design and comfort, but lacks the innovative step bottom center tube. While neither Harris nor Mercury have published performance data on the Crowne 250, Harris’ Grand Mariner of comparable dimensions hit 52 mph with the Mercury 400 with three standard tubes. We would expect similar performance from the Crowne.

Revel’s center tube is oversized as well. This adds passenger capacity but also improves handling. At speed, with much of the outer tubes lifted by the deeper, broader center tube, cornering dynamics is improved and turns are made more comfortable. When you tap the auto tabs and spin the wheel, the RS25L heels inward and carves through the water with a sweetness that defies its pontoon classification. This is truly a luxury platform that delivers the smooth handling of a runabout without losing the soul of a pontoon.

Interior and Accessories

Step up to the helm—elevated 4 inches above the deck for unobstructed sightlines over passengers—and you’ll find a command center worthy of a high-performance vessel. The large glass cockpit display was designed exclusively for this boat, integrating all operating systems—horn, lights, and instrumentation—into one sleek interface. Dual inductive phone chargers flank the wheel, while an exclusive electronic battery switch allows instant power management at the touch of a button. The MB Quart stereo system features Apple CarPlay connectivity, eight speakers, two subwoofers, and two amplifiers to drive the system, providing for clear tones and base.

Ergonomically, the RS25L excels. The throttle falls naturally into hand, foot rests provide comfortable angles, and the captain’s step mat delivers secure nonslip footing. The heated helm seat swivels fore and aft, with adjustable leg room controls ensuring the perfect driving position. Digital switching with contact points on both the wheel and the glass cockpit screen gave ample and convenient access to most functions on boared. Others like the telescopic hardtop are operated by buttons on the steering wheel paddles. Tap the button to sneak under bridges or low spaces.

Passenger comfort rivals your favorite living room. The forward seating features firm, BMW-like cushions with bolsters positioned precisely at shoulder-blade height. Fold-down armrests, articulated storage compartments with gas shocks, and anodized grab rails demonstrate Revel’s attention to detail. The aft seating area transforms effortlessly—pull the forward lounge back and the aft seat forward to create a generous sun pad for catching rays. An aft-facing lounge provides additional seating, with safety lines available for state requirements.

Innovation touches every surface. Bow and midship doors open electronically at the push of a button—a Revel exclusive. The electrically telescoping powder-coated Bimini top adjusts for storage or low-bridge clearance without leaving the helm. Storage abounds, including a center-tube electric cooler, a spacious ski locker, a dedicated teak table storage, and a stowaway wastebasket beneath the driver’s console.

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The style points are almost too numerous to count: refrigerated cup holders, powder-coated windshield rails, woven padded flooring, pull-up polished custom cleats, and fender hangers for quick mooring. 

The Revel’s exterior construction combines fiberglass corner castings with polymer accents and extruded aluminum center panels, all finished in a high-glossy treatment. Even the pontoons receive special attention: a matte finish above the waterline and a hardened rub rail at water level protects against marina battle scars.

How We Tested

• Engine: Mercury 400 hp
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Rev X 22” pitch stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 40 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.

High Points

• The V-bottom center tube with step and pad delivers exceptional acceleration and handling. 
• High-tech helm includes a glass cockpit display, an electronic battery switch, and dual wireless inductive phone chargers.
• Heated helm seating fights chilly mornings.

Low Points

• Side rails instead of safety lines would be a preferable protection for aft seating.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation