Beam: 8’5″
Dry Weight: 1,704 lb.
Seating/Weight Capacity: 10/1,346 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 27
More Information: princecraft.com
The Vectra 21 is Princecraft’s most popular pontoon model, and it’s easy to see why — it’s a snazzy-looking, traditional, two-log pontoon that can be had for an agreeable price. When paired with a 25 hp Mercury FourStroke, the base Vectra 21 has a sticker price of just $16,922. We tested a model with the maximum-horsepower 115 hp Mercury FourStroke and a few extra amenities that brought the manufacturer’s suggested retail price to a still-reasonable $31,906.
The Speed Package option, which adds lifting strakes and an underdeck spray shield, helped us achieve a top speed of 34.5 mph. It climbed onto plane in five seconds with negligible bow rise — pontoons don’t really squat — and reached 30 mph in 10.9 seconds. Handling proved very predictable, and passengers felt secure in all seat positions. Our test model had the improved bucket helm seat with flip-up armrests and an ergonomic curved backrest that provides the driver with extra comfort as he mans the helm in front of the roto-molded console with glare-resistant inset gauges.
The bow area features opposing couches along either interior rail. The cushions are affixed atop draining roto-molded seat bases that provide ample storage. The backrests are angled to allow passengers to sit in a more natural, comfortable manner. Each side also features a forward-facing recliner aft, so two people can lounge with a great view of the water in front of the boat. The cushions are covered in heavy-duty two-tone vinyl.
An L-shaped lounge adorns the main cockpit. A pedestal-mount cockpit table inserts to provide a surface for dining or entertaining. If you plan to bring a lot of gear on board, to that end, the stowage bin along the transom is cavernous. A hinged sun-pad cushion lifts on a gas-assist strut for easy access.
Our test model also featured the 27-gallon fuel tank upgrade, great for extending the boat’s range. Even if you don’t plan to cruise far, the extra fuel will let you stay out longer — an option you’re sure to exercise on a boat like the Vectra 21.
Buyer’s Spotlight
*Side-boarding gate to port gives the boat three points of entry, along with the bow and stern gates.
*Opposing couches up front have angled backrests for more comfortable seating as well as forward-facing recliners for kicking back.
*Captain’s chair has a curved back to provide the driver with a more ergonomic seat.
*Roto-molded seat bases provide excellent storage under the lounge seat cushions.
How We Tested
Engine: 115 hp Mercury FourStroke outboard
Drive/Prop: 15¼” x 15″ 3-blade aluminum
Gear Ratio: 2.07:1
Fuel Load: 10 gal.
Crew Weight: 170 lb.
Price
$31,906 (as tested)
Contact
Princecraft Princeville, Quebec, Canada; 800-395-8858; princecraft.com
