A lot of pontoon manufacturers are mimicking V-hulls with their pontoon placement. Sylvan is doing it with the actual tube surfaces. Revolutionary Planing Technology sculpts the pontoon bottoms on the 8523 Mandalay Port into a V-hull-like shape, with both a pronounced keel and chines. It’s more time-consuming to weld, but it gives the boat an aggressive feel on the water, sharpening handling and improving acceleration even without the optional center tube. With a 150 hp Mercury Verado outboard, the 8523 powered onto plane in 3.9 seconds and maxed out at a top speed of 34.4 mph.
The Port in the Mandalay’s name reflects its portside seating arrangement forward. Dual highback chairs offer single-passenger comfort, with a handy cooler at the ready between them. To starboard, a comfortable lounge allows passengers to stretch out. Aft, another distinct seating area invites the driver to join the party with a reclining, high-back helm seat that swivels to face an L-shaped lounge. A fiberglass galley — with stainless sink, pressurized water and Corian countertop — is ready for entertaining duties.
A sun pad provides tanning space. Below, a double-wide, pop-up changing room beats the claustrophobic feel of smaller enclosures.
Key Features
-A fiberglass galley with a sink and Corian countertop make for great entertaining.
-Extended swim platform is covered in vinyl, an excellent choice for an often wet area.
-Heavy-duty, all hat-style crossmembers increase structural integrity.
