Let’s face it: No matter how well a pontoon performs, you’re probably buying one because you can bring a party on the water with you. Perhaps no other boat can fulfill that mission quite like the Premier 260 Grand Entertainer, a massive pontoon with a full bar built into the aft section.
First off, this boat is rated to carry 16 passengers. That’s a lot of best friends to bring aboard. The crescent-shaped Entertainer bar in back has been upgraded from past models with four total bar stools, now with higher backs for increased comfort. A shade overhead keeps everyone in comfort and features built-in racks to hold wine, martini and margarita stemware. (Two apiece come standard with the boat.) Behind the bar, there’s a sink and cooktop, with space for a refrigerator underneath. Those not wishing to socialize at the bar can relax on the plush Opulent Deluxe with Heritage Fabric couches in the bow; the filler insert in front of the bow boarding gate creates wraparound seating.
From the high-backed captain’s chair at the ergonomic, elevated Liberty Deluxe helm, the captain can see over the crowd up front and safely operate the boat. A touchscreen Beacon 2 system in the helm gives the driver fingertip access to all the digital gauges, ships systems, the optional rearview camera and even the owner’s manual. Another cool feature at the helm? Literally, it’s the electrically chilled cup holder powerful enough to freeze a bottle of water.
We’ve tested past versions of this boat with twin outboard configurations, but this is the first time we’ve run it on a single engine. The Suzuki DF300 provided more than enough juice to help the 260 Grand Entertainer plane quickly and top 44 mph — no easy feat for a boat of this size. Our test model had the standard 30-inch PTX performance package, which adds a 30-inch-diameter center tube complete with an aft pad and lifting strakes on the outer tubes. With PTX, this boat carved graceful arcing turns and handled a small lake chop with ease.
High Points
* Entertainer bar comes with luxury bar stools for four.
* The 30-inch PTX package allows for the upgraded 80-gallon fuel tank, which increases range.
* Elevated Liberty Deluxe helm gives the captain a great view of the water.
* Opulent Deluxe helm and passenger chairs have plush cushions and high backs.
How We Tested
Engine: Suzuki DF300
Prop: 16" x 20" 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 2.00:1
Fuel Load: 40 gal.
Crew Weight: 340 lb.
Price
$85,072 (as tested)
Contact
Premier Pontoons Wyoming, Minnesota; 651-462-2880; pontoons.com
