SunChaser brings in its 2022 Eclipse 25 SBX as a solid performer with a Mercury 250XL outboard at an attractive price. It has the dual distinction of running well and looking good too.
Our tester featured the Xtreme PR25 Performance Package, which added a third tube, lifting strakes and hydraulic steering. The boat reached a near-43 mph top speed while turning a standard aluminum propeller; a few more miles might be gained with a stainless-steel prop. It zipped to 30 mph in 6.4 seconds, enough low-end oomph for use as a watersports tow platform, even with a big crew aboard. We reached a best of 4 mpg at a sedate cruise of 15.7 mph and 2,500 rpm; at that speed, range is 216 miles using 90 percent of the 60-gallon fuel capacity. That allows for a long day on the water. The Eclipse handles those 250 horses well; tight turns and lake chop are mastered without drama, and it’s a breeze to run it at high speed. It responds to engine trim well, and the last few miles per hour come at full throttle by finessing the trim-up button.
How about those good looks? Two curved facing lounges in the bow make a great conversation pit for five. Amidships, the Eclipse features an L-shaped lounge that provides a cozy spot for three, who can converse with the pilot as they cruise. The helm console is raised for better visibility and features a windscreen, a cooler and storage underneath, and a full complement of instruments to monitor the engine. Abaft, the seating is another L-shaped sofa; by reversing the seatback on the L lounge, it faces the stern, where two swivel chairs are well-positioned around a triangular snack table. This makes for a great conversation pit while socializing. During watersports, it makes for easy viewing of the action off the stern. There, the Eclipse features small port and starboard seating and prep areas, perfect for diving off or dangling feet in the water. A wide-step telescoping stainless-steel boarding ladder makes it easy to climb back aboard when you’re done.
Looking for more upgrades? The optional teak weave designer floor covering on our test boat makes for an attractive look with easy cleanup.
High Points
- Blackout perimeter railing and pontoons are stunning.
- Xtreme PR25 Performance Package provides three tubes with lifting strakes, 60 gallons of fuel, hydraulic steering and more.
- Power Bimini works at the flip of a switch.
How We Tested
- Engine: Mercury 250XL FourStroke 250 hp
- Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Enertia Eco 16″ x 17″ 3-blade stainless steel
- Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 54 gal. Crew Weight: 250 lb.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $86,000 |
|---|---|
| LOA: | 27’8″ |
| Beam: | 8’6″ |
| Draft: | NA |
| Dry Weight: | 3,445 lb. |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 15/2,115 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 60 gal. |
SunChaser Boats – New Paris, Indiana; 574-831-2103; sunchaserboats.com
