Life is not a popularity contest, but choosing the right pontoon boat can be. Case in point: The 250 Solaris RF is Premier’s most popular pontoon model, which shows you that, despite all the innovations in speed, size, shape and handling, a lot of people are just looking for a ’toon to take a crew on a relaxing ride. The Premier 250 Solaris RF is an excellent choice for doing exactly that.
Our test model sported the traditional twin-tube construction and featured a 115 hp Evinrude bolted to the transom. Underway, we enjoyed a comfortable, safe and secure ride. The RF in the model name stands for rear facing, which describes the furniture arrangement abaft the helm and co-pilot’s chairs. The twin opposing couches both feature rear-facing backrests that create an ideal spot to kick back and lounge, or to serve as spotting seats during a skiing or tubing session.
At the wheel, the captain enjoys an expanded view thanks to the fiberglass Liberty Sport helm module, which elevates 4 inches above the main deck. Those extra few inches give the driver much better sight lines all around the boat. So no matter how many people are lounging forward, the captain still has a clear view of where he or she is going. The standard Garmin Striker 5 mounted in the dash aids navigation. Both the captain and passenger chairs have flip-down armrests, and they pivot so that, at anchor, their occupants can turn to join the ongoing conversation.
With three boarding gates — at the bow, stern and portside midship — any invited guests will have no problem climbing aboard to enjoy a day on the water, no matter how or where you dock the boat. The pearl hammered rails give the 250 Solaris some curb appeal, as does the new Coastal flooring underfoot. (On top of that, it’s easy to clean and maintain.) Looking for a place to hang? The bow couch and love seat have forward-facing backrests. So, rest assured, the view is good from there, too.
High Points
* Elevated Liberty Sport helm affords the captain excellent visibility.
* RF layout features twin opposing couches aft with rear-facing backrests.
* Standard Garmin Striker 5 mounted in the dash provides GPS navigation.
* Three boarding gates make it easy for passengers to board the boat.
How We Tested
Engine: 115 hp Evinrude E-Tec
Drive/Prop: Outboard/14" x 11" 3-blade aluminum
Gear Ratio: 2.00:1
Fuel Load: 10 gal.
Crew Weight: 380 lb.
Price
$50,869 (with test power)
Contact
Premier Pontoons Wyoming, Minnesota; 651-462-2880; pontoons.com
