zachstovall.com +1 407-492-8774 1877 Karolina Ave. Winter Park, FL 32789 USA
Hampton’s pontoon series by PlayCraft Boats does for luxury-pontoon owners what its X-treme Powertoon series does for performance buffs. Yet under the single-sheet, seven-ply, marine-grade plywood deck, three performance tubes with lifting strakes make sure both luxury and performance tastes are satisfied.
Honda’s thrifty speedster pushes the Hampton along at 45 mph, but a stately 22 mph gives it a fuel-sipping range of 90 miles. Just try to find another fast-boat-and-motor combination that can bring that much fun per gallon.
What’s surprising about this snappy performance is that it’s hidden so well beneath the luxury of plush vinyl-covered couches and a double-wide, aft-facing lounge, which adds the ultimate touch in relaxation while offering a choice seat to watch tubers or board riders enjoy the power maximized with the tow pylon. Vinyl Infinity flooring is finished in a sea-weave look that screams “day at the beach,” but the beach never offered this luxury and speed. At the swim platform, patented integrated steps ease reboarding, and tough, teak-finished vinyl flooring drains and dries quickly.
At the helm, we found a tilt wheel, hydraulic steering, and a buttery-smooth throttle and shift. Elevator switches, or so they appear, light up when devices are tapped on. The bucket helm seat swivels, slides fore and aft, and reclines so the skipper can kick back, prop his feet on the powder-coated rails and listen to the thump of the subwoofer while at anchor.
A cozy C-shaped couch is opposite the helm, and forward seating includes wraparound lounges, curved for style and comfort.
Boarding gates are conveniently located forward, portside and at the starboard stern so skippers and crew can dock as required and still have convenient access to the boat.
Convenience and luxury with hidden performance come together on the Hampton 2485 RL to make for a perfect day on the water with the family.
High Points
* Triple U-shaped tubes are tied directly to crossbeams to remain rigid and true in the roughest waters.
* Performance shield directs surging wakes away from cross members, enhancing speed and comfort.
* PlayCraft’s exclusive patented boarding ladder is integrated into the pontoon for easy reboarding.
How We Tested
Engine: Honda 250 hp outboard
Drive/Prop: Honda 21″ pitch 4-blade aluminum
Gear Ratio: 2.00:1
Fuel Load: 25 gal.
Crew Weight: 240 lb.
Price
$68,900 (as tested)
Contact
Hampton Pontoons by PlayCraft Boats Richland, Missouri; 573-765-3265; hamptonpontoons.com
