We Say: The Princecraft Vogue 29 XT meets the pontoon-boat mission with aplomb, filled with crowd-pleasing amenities and enough seating to entertain a large crew. Powered with a Mercury Racing 400 outboard, our triple-tube test model climbed onto plane in 3.5 seconds with just a hint of bow rise — meaning the captain never loses sight at the helm. We hit 30 mph in 7.1 seconds. These are impressive numbers, but the true benefit of installing a 400 hp engine on a pontoon is the boat will never bog down when loaded to its 16-person capacity.
Our test model featured Princecraft’s Sport Edition package, which includes snazzy all-white vinyl over the plush furniture, LED lighting galore, and a color-coordinated snack table. Our tester also had the optional sport arch, which will please the wakeboarders in your crew. The aft couches have rear-facing recliners, so any spotters can ride in comfort.
The furniture features roto-cast seat bases with plenty of storage underneath to load your gear. The forward couches can be connected by a removable gate seat to form a conversation pit, and the portside seating hides a pop-up changing room that can be equipped with a portable marine toilet. Besides being easy to clean and maintain, the faux-teak vinyl flooring underfoot gives the boat a touch of classic elegance that works well with its stylish features.
Who’d Want One: Boaters looking for a pontoon that can carry a crowd and entertain them.
Another Choice: The Bennington 28 QSR Fastback runs about $125,100 when powered by a Yamaha F350 outboard.
Bottom Line: $105,584 (as tested); princecraft.com
How We Tested
Engine: Mercury Racing 400 Verado
Prop: Enertia 15″ x 15″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.75:1
Fuel Load: 49 gal.
Crew Weight: 170 lb.
