Fitted with the speed package, consisting of two 25-inch-diameter tubes with lifting strakes, under-deck spray shield and optional Bay Star hydraulic steering system with tilt wheel, the Vantage 23-4S delivered the spirited performance anglers seek in a fishing ’toon. Pushing the throttle lever resulted in gratifying acceleration and speed that would spirit fishers to a honey hole quickly. Turns were negotiated with grace, and Teleflex hydraulic steering made reining in 115 ponies easy on the arms.
Princecraft builds the Vantage 23-4S for the long run, using 2½-inch heavy-duty aluminum Z-channel cross-members, extruded aluminum keels on the tubes and 1¼-inch anodized-aluminum side rails. I applauded myriad details, such as the pinch-free hinges on the lift-andlock boarding gates, the raised bottom of stowage lockers to keep gear dry, and the cutaway in the forward boarding gate that allows for uncomplicated installation of a trolling motor. The deck is a full ¾-inch-thick pressure-treated plywood, and the engine hangs on a V-shaped pod.
I think the layout might be the boat’s best feature. Forward, there’s lots of open space, despite the pair of swivel seats and pair of corner consoles installed. Two anglers could easily fish the bow and not be on top of each other. But I loved the aft deck, with its raised platform, two more swivel chairs, massive stowage below and, between the seats, switches for the livewell. The fiberglass helm console is a great command center, with an optional sink/galley on its forward side, and the port-side L-lounge seats six. There is a sun pad aft, which opens on a gas strut to reveal an optional changing room. Seeking a fishing pontoon that doesn’t forget about “family Saturday”? Check out Princecraft’s Vantage 23-4S.
Extra Points
Features 2½-inch heavy-duty aluminum Z-channel cross-members.
Wonderful aft deck “fishing throne” — with seats, stowage and livewell controls — add a nice sportsman’s touch.
Lift-and-lock boarding gates with pinch-free hinges.
Excellent performance even equipped with midrange power.
Test Drive
» Test Engine: Mercury OptiMax Pro XS 115 HP Outboard
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» Test Prop:** Mercury 13¼ ” X 15″ Three-Blade Aluminum
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» Test Load:** People (380 LB.); Fuel (27 GAL.)
» Top Speed: 31.6 MPH
» Time to 30 MPH: 9.2 sec.
» Most Economical Cruise Speed: 24.3 MPH @ 4,000 RPM, 7 GPH, 3.47 MPG
Vital Stats
» Length Overall: 23’9″
» Beam: 8’6″
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» Dry Weight:** 2,062 LB.
» Seating/Weight Capacity: 8/2,065 LB.
» Fuel Capacity: 27 GAL.
» Max HP: 115
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» MSRP:** $35,155
» NMMA Certified
