Boat Test: 2026 Monterey Elite 25 OB

Overview

Monterey stepped out of its comfort zone when it introduced the Elite series a year ago beginning with the Elite 30. Boating’s edit team deemed the design and cockpit functionality so dramatic we voted it the 2024 Boat of the Year. Then Monterey followed up with the Elite 27—we were just as excited about that one—and then the Elite 25 outboard, a three-peat groundbreaker running beautifully on a single outboard (or sterndrive).

Engine

I stepped aboard the Elite 25 OB and felt déjà vu all over again, seeing the same sophisticated styling and luxury presented in the 30. It delivers serious performance with single-outboard power options up to 350 hp and the stance  of the 21-degree transom deadrise VST hull. The side-by-side bucket seats with the throttle centered and wheel positioned on the left is reminiscent of offshore racing boats. During testing with a Mercury Verado 300, the Elite 25 OB achieved a top speed of 48 mph while demonstrating exceptional handling through turns and a remarkably smooth ride in choppy conditions. An available 350 might get you a few more miles per hour.

Interior and Accessories

The dash is glass cockpit-style and integrates Simrad’s extra-wide screen, placing navigation, engine functions, sonar, and digital switching at your fingertips. The tilt wheel and sliding, swiveling captain’s and companion  bucket seats make the Elite 25 feel like a Corvette from behind the wheel. 

The fiberglass hardtop’s innovative three-point stance—resting on the console’s leading edge and both gunwales—ensures rock-solid, rattle-free stability under way. Narrow gunwales maximize walkway space along either side of the console, leading to a thoughtfully designed bow featuring a large double lounge with fold-down armrests and centerline seating that keeps all passengers secure and comfortable. 

Entertainment amenities abound, including an L-shaped cockpit lounge with a convertible sun-pad configuration, a wet bar with a stainless-steel sink, a shower, and a pull-out Yeti cooler. The extra-large swim platform features dual boarding ladders positioned safely away from the outboard, providing generous space for water activities. With its high freeboard inspiring confidence in rough weather and a starting nationally advertised price of $147,700 the Elite 25 OB delivers true Monterey luxury in a versatile, family-friendly package.

How We Tested

• Engine: Single Mercury Verado 300 hp
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Enertia Eco XP 17.5 3-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.85:1 Fuel Load: 30 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.

High Points

• The solid fiberglass hardtop features a three-point stance, ensuring it remains sturdy and free of vibration or rattle while under way.
• Center console features offshore-inspired bucket seating, combining throttle and wheel control for focused performance and comfort.
• The hull’s aggressive 21-degree transom deadrise delivers a smooth, confident ride, even in choppy, rough-water conditions.

Low Points

• Creative head compartment entry slides out to a generous compartment but entry is lower as is common in 25 footers.
• Holds only eight gallons of fresh water for the sink and transom shower functionality.

Toughest Competitor

Four Winns’ 26-foot-2-inch H6 ($144,175) offers comparable performance, luxury, and a vertical stem. It follows the traditional gunwale-to-gunwale tower and dual console design compared to the Elite’s centered seating.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation