Sun Tracker is known for delivering a good boat at a very fair price, AND this formula has made it the industry’s largest pontoon manufacturer. But in addition to its “price point” and “fish friendly” models, the company also caters to the higher end of the market.
The flagship of the Party Barge fleet is the Regency 25 XP3. The company’s sole three-log offering, it boasts premium materials and construction methods and can go head-to-head with other luxury brands in terms of both performance and creature comforts.
Because all three logs are 26 inches in diameter, and are fitted with lifting strakes, the Regency rides high, even when fully loaded. As a result, this 26-footer can reach speeds approaching 40 mph with a 200 hp, four-stroke Merc, and also deliver enough hole shot to justify the optional ski-tow bar. When throttled back to midrange, noise levels are low enough to allow for normal conversation, and at 20 mph you’ll have a cruising range of around 150 miles.
On deck, stylishly sculpted upholstery blends with wood-grain accents to create an upscale atmosphere. We had the full-length seating arrangement on our test boat, with plenty of deck space and room for an optional barbecue grill. Swimmers are also provided for with a reasonably roomy stern entry deck and a large changing room.
Standard features include hydraulic steering with tilt wheel, a pair of reclining captain’s chairs, a digital depth gauge and an integrated refreshment center with a 13-gallon pressurized water system. Other noteworthy amenities include a removable table, LED courtesy lighting, a flush-mounted compass and an MP3 and Sirius-capable sound system. These are the things you’d expect from a pontoon that aspires to luxury, and the Regency doesn’t disappoint.
Extra Points
• Lifting strakes raise the bow for chop-piercing performance as speed increases.
• Four-stroke power delivers whisperquiet operation at lower speeds.
• Steering and power are sufficient for everything from tubes to recreational skiers.
• The 11-foot Bimini top provides shade for more than half the deck.
Test Drive * Test Engine: Mercury 200 HP 4-stroke * Test Prop: Enertia 14 * Test Load: People (400 LB.) Fuel (29 GAL.) * Top Speed: 39 MPH @ 6,500 RPM * Time to 30 MPH: 10.5 sec. * Most Economical Cruise Speed: 19 MPH @ 3,600 RPM, 4.4 GPH Vital Stats * Length Overall: 26’11” * Beam: 8’6″ * Dry Weight: 3,230 LB.(w/ engine) * Seating/Weight Capacity: 15/2,200 LB. * Fuel Capacity: 37 GAL. * Max HP: 200 * MSRP: $38,995 (with 150 hp Mercury OptiMax) * NMMA Certified: Yes
