The Manitou Explore’s trademark MAX Deck returns for 2024—with 2 feet more. The Explore MAX features a wide-open aft deck, ideal for watersports compared to typical pontoons. Additionally, BRP LinQ mounts make it easy to install accessories, like a cooler or a gear box. The hidden, low-profile Rotax S150 outboard that makes the MAX design possible also gets a companion, creating a 300 hp duo that adds nearly 15 mph to top-end performance. Twin engines and digital power steering also make joystick piloting possible, taking the stress out of close-quarters maneuvering.
While the deck-outboard combo aft is a game-changer, it’s the Explore’s sleek perimeter design that first draws the eye. Formed from a near-seamless collection of formed aluminum panels, it’s automotive-inspired and thoroughly modern. Individual panels are removable in the unlikely event of damage. A top rail cap includes LinQ Lite mounts ready for everything from fenders to stemware. The overhead Sport Bimini flows from the design and incorporates a sturdy, gas-assisted Bimini top rated for up to 55 mph. Belowdecks, Manitou’s patented V-Toon Technology drops the center tube to create deadrise, mimicking the feel of a V-hull.
Accommodations complete the boat’s modern aesthetic. The Switchback layout pairs forward couches with parallel lounges aft that feature adjustable backrests fore and aft. Recline them back for forward-facing comfort, or pivot forward to switch the focus to a more social setting or to look out onto the water and the MAX Deck. A pair of Manitou’s Trifold Benches, concealed in the middle of each aft couch, offers additional three-in-one functionality by converting from seating to a dinette table, or pivoting entirely out of the way to create two facing seats with feet-on-the-floor legroom.
Discretely tucked within the inwales are speakers and cup holders. A sleek, minimalist helm includes a standard 12-inch Garmin display featuring Garmin Boat Switch digital switching, a Fusion stereo head unit and a wireless charging cubby.
High Points
- Three available color combos.
- Fusion RA-670 audio with six speakers, a subwoofer and an eight-channel amp.
- Standard composite decking, powder-coated tubes, woven flooring, lit center-tube storage and USB charging.
How We Tested
- Engines: Twin 150 hp Rotax S outboards
- Drive/Props: Outboard/Rotax Viper 14.5″ x 21″ 3-blade stainless steel
- Gear Ratio: 2.08:1 Fuel Load: 50 gal.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $123,799 (with twin Rotax S150 outboards) |
| LOA: | 28’4″ |
| Beam: | 8’6″ |
| Draft (max): | NA |
| Dry Weight: | 4,258 lb. |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 10/1,410 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 90 gal. |
Manitou Pontoon Boats – Lansing, Michigan; manitoupontoonboats.com
