We Say: If you’re buying a pontoon boat for entertaining, it’s hard to look beyond the Premier 260 Grand Entertainer. This boat is rated to carry 16 passengers. The crescent-shaped Entertainer bar in back has been upgraded from past models to include four total bar stools, now with higher backs for increased comfort. A shade overhead keeps everyone in comfort and features built-in racks to hold wine, martini and margarita stemware. Behind the bar, there’s a sink and cooktop, with space for a refrigerator underneath.
The bow arrangement features Opulent Deluxe couches covered with Heritage fabric for kicking back. From the high-backed captain’s chair at the ergonomic, elevated Liberty Deluxe helm, the captain can see over the crowd up front and safely operate the boat. A touchscreen Beacon II system in the helm gives the driver fingertip access to all the digital gauges, ship’s systems, the optional rearview camera and even the owner’s manual.
The Suzuki DF300 provided plenty of juice to help the 260 Grand Entertainer top 44 mph. Our test model had the standard 30-inch PTX performance package, which adds a 30-inch-diameter center tube, and the boat carved graceful, arcing turns and handled chop with ease.
Who’d Want One: Boaters looking to bring a big crew on the water.
Another Choice: The Bennington 25 RSFBA ($95,704 with a Yamaha F300 outboard) has a 16-person capacity.
Bottom Line: $85,072 (as tested); pontoons.com
