Roto-cast construction continues to evolve for use in building pontoon boats, and Smoker Craft brand boats are leading the way. Typically found in seat bases and the occasional helm station, SunChaser embraces the technology to make a large percentage of furniture and exterior walls on the affordably priced Lucerne 20 LR DH. No less than four roto-molded modules are featured in each corner on the top deck. They not only form the Lucerne’s four primary seating areas in those areas, but also the adjacent exterior walls. Tied together along port and starboard sides with stretches of traditional aluminum fencing and backing panels, the combo strikes a thoroughly modern mix, with the roto-cast material’s matte-gray finish offset by the aluminum’s bright pop of color. The result is an affordable, low-maintenance pontoon with an almost sporty appearance.
Move to the interior and those four roto-cast modules reveal a passenger-focused floor plan. Bow lounges feature forward-facing backrests for those who want to stretch out, with wraparound back cushions for when the crew is ready to socialize. The port bench continues down the entire side until it meets the aft gate. That big comfy couch continues on the starboard side, where it backs up to the captain’s high-back, swilling helm seat. Overhead, a Bimini top, color-matched to the fence accent hue, offers shade to a large portion of the deck. The sculpted roto-cast helm console features a tilt wheel, gauge array, and Wet Sounds MC5 Bluetooth sound system with four speakers. Swap out the gauges for an optional Humminbird Helix 5 in-dash GPS.
Belowdecks, the Lucerne rides atop a pair of 23-inch-diameter pontoons. Our test boat’s 90 hp Mercury outboard proved a value-minded match to the affordable Lucerne. Handling proved quite precise for an entry-level model, with pontoons hooking up to deliver exceptional cornering with just a hint of outside lean. Paired with a 90-horse Mercury outboard, our test boat peaked just short of 27 mph. At a leisurely 13.5 mph cruising speed, its most economical, consumption dropped as low as 2.9 gph.
High Points
- Roto-cast corner pieces match side-panel colors.
- Luxury package adds a power Bimini top, Helix GPS, high-back chairs, mood lighting, windscreen and upgraded wheel.
- Standard woven flooring, black anodized rails, Bimini top and five-step ladder.
How We Tested
- Engine: Mercury 90
- Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Black Max 10.375″ x 11″ 3-blade aluminum
- Gear Ratio: 2.07:1 Fuel Load: 15 gal. Crew Weight: 155 lb.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $37,965 (with Mercury 90) |
| LOA: | 20’10” |
| Beam: | 8’0″ |
| Draft (max): | NA |
| Dry Weight: | 1,875 lb. |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 9/1,695 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 20 gal. |
SunChaser Pontoon Boats – New Paris, Indiana; sunchaserboats.com
