Tahoe’s 2385 Cascade is a new model for 2017, and a solid contender in the midrange performance pontoon boat segment. It shows and performs well and, in our opinion, the 2385 Cascade is on par with other pontoon boats that sell for more money. Bow to stern, its length overall measures 24 feet 6 inches. It possesses an 8½-foot beam. Dry weight is 2,900 pounds, with a 2,560-pound capacity (including 12 people at 1,600 pounds total).
Tahoe fits the 2385 Cascade with a Mercury 90 outboard as the standard engine; the boat we were given to test boasted an optional Mercury 150 FourStroke installed. This was spinning a 15-inch-by-15-inch Mercury Enertia stainless-steel performance propeller. Performance with the standard 90 would likely be adequate, but remember that few boaters complain about having too much horsepower! As tested, our test rig really jumped, racing to 30 mph in 7.2 seconds from a dead stop. Top speed hit right at 41 mph, fast enough to get back to port in a storm. The Mercury evinced a raspy idle, but dropping the throttle reminded us of Mercury TwoStrokes of old: instant and strong acceleration, with no wasted sound. A 45-gallon fuel tank gives plenty of range with this clean and efficient outboard. The Mercury delivered its most economical cruise speed of 14.5 mph at 2,500 rpm; at this speed, the Tahoe’s range is about 210 miles with 10 percent reserve left in the tank.
The Cascade is ready for your party; crew can get comfortable on the two front-facing and two rear-facing couches. The standard Infinity stereo puts out good volume, and optional multicolored mood lighting surrounds the stereo speakers and cup holders. The vinyl floor covering is sleek and looks tough, but it’s easy to clean. The interior vinyl is nicely stitched. The driver’s console has a smart layout, with Mercury’s controls within arm’s reach and the gauges clearly visible. Steering is SeaStar hydraulic, which provided a confident feel at speed. Storage behind the hinged seat backs and under the seat cushions is abundant. A sturdy chrome boarding ladder is standard, and a ski-tow bar is optional. Our tester also sported two-tone paint, a chrome hardware package, quick-release fender holders and built-in LED-accented docking lights.
High Points
* Smooth-finish interior walls add clean style.
* Solid all-aluminum seat framing promises durability.
* Waveglider pontoons deliver quick acceleration, stability and flat turning.
* Large aft “trunk” offers covered, sealed stowage.
* Heavy-duty bolted hat-channel crossbeams.
How We Tested
Engine: Mercury 150 hp FourStroke
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 15″ x 15″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.92:1
Fuel Load: 22 gal.
Crew Weight: 550 lb.
Price
$53,535 (as tested)
Contact
Avalon and Tahoe Manufacturing Alma, Michigan; 800-334-2913; avalonpontoons.com
