For 2021, Bennington Marine offers the big hit from last year—the drop-center bowrider innovation featuring Vantage-Point Captain’s View and the step-down U-Lounge layout—available in a lower-priced model, the new 23LTSB. At $90,977, versus $140,000 for the 24R luxury model, the new Bennington will attract more buyers.
This rig, equipped with a Yamaha 250 VMax SHO, rolled up a 43 mph top-end speed with zero-to-30 mph sprints in 5.3 seconds—faster than most hot-rod bass boats. Best cruise for fuel mileage is just under 19 mph and 3,000 rpm, where the brutish yet refined SHO sipped 5.4 gph, calculating to 3.5 mpg; this means nearly 182 miles on its 58-gallon tank with 10 percent of the fuel in reserve.
Thanks to the drop-bow section, piloting the 23LTSB gives the feeling of a much smaller craft when at speed; and thanks to the integrated V-hull center tube, it handles nimbly like a runabout. The outer tubes are 23 inches in diameter, with three center storage compartments in the V-hull center tube.
Inside, the 23LTSB’s step-down bowrider differs from the 24R with a single step down versus two for the larger, more expensive 24R, and there are none of those handy side view ports (open railings), but it still has tapered-down top bow rails for easier visibility while docking. That cozy bowrider section features two facing loungers with a filler section in the center; this can be removed for access through the bow door.
The upholstery is true pillow-top vinyl, luxurious in both looks and feel with horizontal diamond-pressed patterning offset with contrasting stripes. The bow deck is spacious, allowing for easy boarding and debarking to beach or dock.
The pilot’s console features full Yamaha instrumentation, along with tilt-helm SeaStar hydraulic steering and a Rockford Fosgate sound system with Kicker Blue Ice illuminated speakers. The captain’s swivel helm seat is a high-back luxury throne.
Astern, the 23LTSB features a three-quarter-width Swingback lounge platform with stainless-steel safety perimeter railing. An additional stereo head control unit is strategically placed there for the aft riders.
High Points
- Power Bimini top raises and lowers at the touch of a button.
- RGB lighting, optional aft grill, and aft-fired speakers make the 23 a party platform.
- Step-down U-Lounge hull-and-deck layout that provides enhanced captain visibility.
Specs
LOA: 24′7″
Beam: 8′6″
Draft: NA
Dry Weight: 3,520 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity: 12/2,600 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 58 gal.
Price: $90,977
How We Tested
Engine: Yamaha four-stroke 250 hp VMax SHO
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series II 153/4″ x 13″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.75:1
Fuel Load: 50 gal.
Crew Weight: 250 lb.
More Information
Bennington Marine – Elkhart, Indiana; 888-906-2628; benningtonmarine.com