Trifecta’s 23RF T 2.75 neatly combines current trends with old-school pontoon functionality. The former is seen in the boat’s blacked-out rails, fence panels, rub rail and Bimini hardware, along with an LED-lighting package that shines below the deck, under the water and along the exterior rail. The latter is evident in the RF’s emphasis on passengers and interior space. At the bow, fencing is pushed almost to the limits of the deck, capturing those last precious inches for the 4-foot dual lounges. Passengers will appreciate the space as they settle into pillow-top furniture, and they’ll note the security of the bolster below the thigh. Those couches invite stretching out, but they also incorporate a practical indent midlength that allows those sitting up to have more natural, face-to-face conversation with fellow passengers. Aft, you’ll find an almost mirror-image layout. Roto-cast seat bases are dressed up in two-tone vinyl. Behind, low-maintenance interior storage is readily accessed via seat bases that pivot out of the way on two-part hinges. A perimeter lip and drains discourage water from getting inside.
Twin high-backed chairs with gas-adjustable pedestals occupy the boat’s midsection, one just aft of the port boarding gate and the other awaiting the captain at the upscale fiberglass helm. The latter’s centerpiece is a sleek Murphy display that incorporates both GPS mapping and the standard sound system. Wheel spokes are made from billet aluminum, a material that is also found in accents around the toggle-style switches and convenient smartphone holder.
Underway, handling benefits from Trifecta’s 2.75 Performance Package. It adds a third, center tube to the 25-inch outer pontoons, performance-minded lifting strakes, aluminum under-deck skin, and hydraulic steering with power assist. A Suzuki DF200 outboard pushed those tubes almost instantly onto plane, past 30 mph in 10.4 seconds, and topped out at 38 mph.
High Points
* Fiberglass helm includes USB and auxiliary stereo inputs, 12-volt plug and sink.
* Four lighted, 165-watt Kicker speakers are located in seat bases; molded plastic covers protect speaker backs and wiring from damage.
* Extended stern platform features vinyl flooring, transom washdown, stainless-steel ladder and ski tow.
How We Tested
Engine: Suzuki DF200
Drive/Prop: 15″ x 21″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 2.5:1
Fuel Load: 20 gal.
Crew Weight: 320 lb.
Price
$66,648 (with test power)
Contact
Forest River Marine Middlebury, Indiana; 574-825-8696; trifectapontoon.com
