For 2021, Misty Harbor Boats introduces the Viaggio line of luxury performance pontoons, aiming at the higher end of the market but keeping the price competitive. If the Diamante 26S is any example, the company will do well. Our test boat impressed with performance, fit and finish, build quality, and several innovative and thoughtful touches.
The Mercury Verado 250 powered the Diamante to a 42 mph top speed, and accelerated to 30 mph from an in-gear idle in just under 8 seconds. Fuel-wise, best cruise was at 3,500 rpm, with a speed of 19 mph. Fuel burn was 6.3 gph and 3 mpg, so with the 56-gallon center-mounted tank, range is 150 miles. Sound level is a low 72 decibels at that speed, so conversations can be had at normal voice levels. Handling was flat and cornering sharp, even with the wheel cranked over hard and cutting through afternoon chop and large boat wakes. That performance is enabled by triple 25-inch tubes with lifting strakes (one each on the insides of the outer tubes, and also one on each side of the center tube).
Topside, the bow is fitted with two curved, forward-facing, extra-long loungers and a removable snack table mounted on the centerline. This is a huge forward section, easily handling up to six friends without crowding. Upholstery is a tri-color camel, white and gray affair atop sturdy roto-cast bases with dual-hinged bottom cushions.
The driver’s console is sleek and laid-back, with storage underneath (lots of it because the wiring is neat, tidy and tucked away). The dash features a Veethree 5-inch multiple-gauge cluster and Simrad digital GPS, chart and engine-monitoring system, center-mounted and easy to master. The captain’s chair is supportive yet cushy, and swivels with fore-aft slide adjustability for the driver.
Abaft, a reversible swing-back lounger offers forward or aft-facing seating and sunbathing, with a stainless-steel perimeter safety railing to keep everyone safe when underway. A Rockford Fosgate PMX-2 receiver sound-system upgrade with amp and speaker package provides more than adequate tunes.
High Points
- Exclusive 3-inch extruded top-rail design creates a unique appearance.
- LCI premium furniture is luxurious but durable.
- Triple 25-inch tubes with lifting strakes offer a steady ride.
Specs
LOA: 26′0″
Beam: 8′6″
Draft: NA
Dry Weight: 3,495 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity: 12/2,600 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 56 gal.
Price: $99,084
How We Tested
Engine: Mercury Verado FourStroke 250 hp
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 141/2″ x 17″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.85:1
Fuel Load: 56 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
More Information
Misty Harbor Boats – Bristol, Indiana; 574-622-0490; mistyharborboats.com