The Harris Solstice DC 250 is a pontoon with sport-boat dreams. This new model looks and feels like a runabout, not a tri-toon. It's rated for 400 outboard horses (just think of what fun that would be!), but Harris fitted a new Mercury V-6 225 FourStroke outboard to the transom of our test boat. With that engine spinning a 14-inch-pitch Mercury Enertia propeller, top speed was 37 mph at 5,500 rpm. Acceleration from a dead idle to 30 mph came in at a brisk 9 seconds flat. The most economical cruise speed we noted during testing proved to occur at 3,000 rpm, where we recorded 15.5 mph for a net fuel economy of 3.8 miles per gallon, burning 4.1 gallons per hour. The best results from this package were not the objective measurements, however. Instead, it was the performance feeling and secure handling resulting from the Solstice DC 250's triple 27-inch-diameter pontoons, which are engineered with lifting strakes strategically placed on the inner sides of the outside tubes and both sides of the center tube. The cockpit enhanced the sport-boat feel even further with the deep cushy-yet-firm captain's and first-mate helm chairs and a full-frame smoked windshield that allowed good visibility and afforded excellent protection from wind blast. In total, the effect delivered is truly more runabout than pontoon.
For 2019, Harris enhanced the Solstice DC 250, adding a new Evo tower with forward Bimini top and a power-retractable 9-foot-7-inch sun top aft. An optional watersports tow point and tower speakers on top complete this package.
In our view, the seating arrangement creates a great conversation pit in the bow, with enough room for four to sit and chat or enjoy the ride. The aft section mirrors the bow, but Harris offers a myriad of floor-plan options to suit a multitude of boating needs. In the as-tested configuration, the Solstice DC 250 is actually compartmentalized into three distinct areas, which is great for mingling and socializing while cruising or at rest. For watersports, the Harris does well with the arch, boarding ladder and open rear deck area aft. The JL Audio sound package with sub, amp and ten(!) speakers really punches out clean sound.
High Points
- Simrad digital monitor, Mercury Active Trim and large-diameter electronic analog gauges make the Harris fun to run.
- Dual-console design delivers sport-boat feel.
- New Evo tower with fore and aft retractable tops.
Price: $128,148
How We Tested
Engine: Mercury 225 FourStroke
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 15.3" x 14" 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.85:1
Fuel Load: 21 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
Harris - Fort Wayne, Indiana; 260-432-4555; harrisboats.com
