Bennington’s 25RSFBA is a big pontoon boat inside and out. It makes an ideal platform for hosting huge parties out on the lake, and with the Elliptical Sport Package and Yamaha’s 300 hp outboard, it reacts to steering, throttle and trim input like a much smaller, nimbler craft. The big V-6 Yamaha has the push to back up the growl: With a 15-inch Yamaha stainless-steel prop, the Bennington 25RSFBA launched from zero to 30 mph in a cat-quick 6.4 seconds (that’s faster than many hot-rod bass and performance boats!). Top speed was a cool 43 mph at 6,000 rpm, which is more than enough oomph to carry a load of partyers back to port ahead of a storm. All the zoom comes at an efficient fuel burn as well; the most economical cruising speed was 17 mph and 2,500 rpm, while burning 4.9 gph. That’s an excellent net economy of 3.5 mpg. With a 50-gallon tank, the Bennington 25RSFBA’s range at this cruise speed is 156 miles, with a 10 percent fuel reserve. Turning at any speed shy of wide open is uneventful: The boat banks only slightly, and the prop won’t break loose unless the engine’s trimmed out. This is a fun and safe boat to operate.
The interior is top-shelf all the way, no different from other Benningtons. Two-tone Simtex vinyl that’s richly contoured with detailed stitching couples with dense foam underneath, so the seating is super plush. Complementing the seating vinyl is the woven-vinyl floor covering. The extended aft deck is roomy enough for watersports and lounging; a stainless-steel ladder makes getting back aboard easier. For big parties, the interior layout couldn’t be better. Long, comfy forward couches span the entire foredeck, and the pilot and co-pilot can relax in upholstered matching captain’s chairs. All this luxury and amenity is supported underneath by rugged 16-inch on-center cross members and cross channels. This is a boat built to entertain big groups, look great doing it, get there and back in a hurry, and last a long time.
High Points
* Huge Yamaha 300 four-stroke coupled with Elliptical Sport Package gives super-quick acceleration and top speed, great for big loads and/or watersports activities.
* Bennington has it nailed when it comes to interior layout, materials and quality fit and finish. Upscale homes would do so well to have seating like this.
How We Tested
Engine: Yamaha F300 300 hp four-stroke
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha 15" x 15½" 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.75:1
Fuel Load: 17 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
Price
$95,704 (as tested)
Contact
Bennington Pontoon Boats Elkhart, Indiana; 888-906-2628; benningtonmarine.com
