Party Barge is the model name of the Sun Tracker that shows they know what makes pontoon owners tick. Regency is the name that says Tracker is serious about making fun boats more luxurious. We recently tested the new 27-footer and think the name fits to a T.
Wood-grain trim and curvy lines in the forward lounges bring elegance to the Regency Edition. That same panache is found at the helm station where wood-grain trim and the soft, curvy lines of the console seemed to take a sense of purpose from our test ride, converting instead to a relaxing exploration of Table Rock Lake. My compatriots lounged in twin recliners at my left hand. Tracker had opened up the deck space by eliminating built-in lounges in favor of swiveling comfort. It was definitely a change we liked. For durability, plenty of corrosion-resistant stainless-steel cleats, latches and fasteners keep the rig water-ready day after boating day.
The pontoons, shaped with oversize strakes, add lift to this rig, helping it to move faster under 150 horses. The shape of the tubes allows the performance without adding the weight of a middle tube and extra horsepower. We felt the boat would be ideal for pulling kids on tubes or even for a morning ski run.
Tracker succeeds at creating a quality pontoon experience by building boats in the heart of the Ozarks where the work ethic is strong and pride in workmanship keeps the product consistent. Our check ride showed the system is working.
Key Note: For water sports, 150 hp is an ideal power plant, but we’d opt for a Verado engine for quieter evening cruising.
Standout Features
• Wood-grain trim and curvy styling in the furnishings add a rich look unique to Sun Tracker’s upscale pontoon.
• Swapping aft lounges for dual recliners is a smart move that adds comfort and makes more-practical use of the deck space.
• Helm station’s curvaceous lines enclose storage drawers, a stowaway cooler and stereo equipment.
Vital Stats
* Length Overall: 27’10”
* Beam: 8’6″
* Dry Weight: 3,230 lb.
* Seating/Weight Capacity: 16/3,200 lb.
* Fuel Capacity: 45 gal.
* Maximum HP: 150
* MSRP (test boat w/ Mercury OptiMax 150): $37,935 (not including dealer prep, freight)
* NMMA Certified: Yes
Test Drive
* Test Engine: Mercury OptiMax 150
* Test Prop: 13-inch, aluminum 3-blade
* Test Load: People (500 lb.); Fuel (40 gal.)
* Top Speed: 34.1 mph @ 5,500 rpm
