Big pontoons like this Crowne SL 250 bring out the curiosity in just about everybody around the dock, sandbar or marina — it looks like no other. True to form, this Harris piqued everyone’s interest, and it didn’t fail to win approval.
If top speed is an asset you require, the Crowne should please you since it is a solid 60-plus mph performer. With some seat time and by finessing the twin hydraulic jack plates and power trim together, the best top speed we could wring from it was 63 mph at 6,300 rpm, though Harris’ driver, with more experience with this boat, was able to eke out 66 mph. Twin Verados drink a lot of fuel; our best cruise speed was at 2,500 rpm, where we were ticking along at 20 mph and 2.5 mpg. At that rate, the 93-gallon tank is good for about 210 miles, with 10 percent reserve.
The Crowne SL 250 performs well, even at slow speeds. It’s on plane at 12 mph, and there’s a mere 5.6 seconds between dead idle and 30 mph. Punch like that will pull nearly anyone, or anything, you can think of. The huge 27-inch-diameter pontoons deliver stable, flat cornering and a smooth ride in lake chop.
Inside, there’s little Harris didn’t consider. An optional arch offers great shade with the Bimini top, and it’s powered for easy lowering for under-bridge passage. The glass dashboard houses a digital touchscreen dash that controls everything on the boat, and it gives all the information you’ll need on the twin Verados. In-floor storage makes stashing wakeboards and skis simple. A quick-release fender system protects the sculpted sides from dock rash. The optional JL Audio Diamond sound system provided throaty bass, and the SL floor plan with a single rear-facing lounger with powered backrest gave luxurious versatility to the stern seating area. The Crowne brings new sleekness to pontoon design, with a sloping contoured nose and dramatic flair to the side panels. The pilot is pampered accordingly with a special UltraLux vinyl high-backed helm seat.
High Points
* Wow factor of twin Mercury Racing 350 Verado engines.
* In-floor storage is great for swallowing up skis and water toys.
* Rear pop-up privacy room makes for easy changing.
* “Fabric-Feel” vinyl upholstery with detailed, intricate stitching is rich and inviting.
How We Tested
Engine: Twin 350 hp Mercury Racing Verados
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury 21″ pitch 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.75:1
Fuel Load: 72 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
Price
$185,100 (as tested)
Contact
Harris Fort Wayne, Indiana; 260-432-4555; harrisboats.com
