We Say: The look on the guide’s face was priceless. We idled into the redfish spot aboard Tahoe’s 228 and hooked right up. We didn’t have the poling tower or the big outboard his flats skiff sported. But we proved one of this boat’s many abilities.
Fishing, touring, pulling the gang on a tube … like many deck boats the 228 proves able for all. Where it stands out is in the fit and finish. The nonskid is a grippy, easy-on-the-knees oval pattern. Hatch lids are finished on both sides, which looks great and means they clean with the wipe of a rag, rather than the scrub of a brush. The 12-volt receptacle in the console is a weather-tight Marinco model. Opening the engine hatch, I liked the easy-to-access battery placement and handy shelf for spares and tools. My smile faded a tad upon noticing that the fuel line runs through the bulkhead without chafe protection. That aside, most deck boats have a reputation for being entry-level in rigging and finish, but the 228 is put together as though Tahoe expected an old salt to own her.
Comfort also rates high. Twin flip-bolster bucket helm seats, recliners in the bow, plenty of built-in cold stowage, and I applaud the dedicated slot for a carry-on cooler.
With a top speed of 48 mph, when powered by MerCruiser’s 300 hp 350 Mag MPI Alpha stern-drive, the 228 offers quick transport to the flats, the tubing waters or whatever adventure you’re undertaking. — Kevin Falvey
Who’d Want One: Boaters seeking high quality in a utilitarian format.
Another Choice: Hurricane’s SunDeck 237 I/O ($45,487 powered by a catalyzed 300 hp MerCruiser 350 Mag MPI Bravo Three stern-drive).
Bottom Line: $45,990 with test power; tahoe-boats.com
