Tahoe Vista 2285 Cruise

August 2014 Boat Test Monday

This article originally appeared in our 2014 Shootout issue. If you are interested in seeing this in print along with 25 other boat reviews, click HERE to purchase the back issue.

What You Need To Know

Tahoe found a way to pack a lot of great features into this 23-footer with just the right balance of standard features and options. In fact, as tested, it really has everything that you need including plenty of horsepower.

The Highlights

From the Deco 2 two-tone aluminum walls to the black and grey Matrix 50 vinyl, this Vista Cruise has an inviting feel to it both inside and out. Even the silver Faux Teak vinyl flooring helps the flow of the design. We love this high-end flooring for not only looks, but it makes for easy cleanup as well.

One of the many unique features on this Tahoe is the “flow through” ventilation storage space below the seat cushions. This design not only gives you more storage room because of the aluminum bases, but access is easier too. Speaking of storage, with the large in-floor ski locker that is over 7 feet long inside, there are plenty of great places to store your gear on this boat. Even the space below the rear, three-quarter sundeck could be used for storage box if needed, but we kind of like the ease and the size of the changing room in this spot. The enclosure includes a latching door and, once open, the pop-up curtain stands over 5 feet tall. Plus as an added bonus, there is even a bench seat inside that makes changing a whole lot easier.

We love the raised platform for the helm station, as well as the reclining helm chair for the captain. The automotive-style dash includes a Jensen stereo that is Bluetooth capable, Auxiliary and USB ports, a 12-volt outlet and a small drainable storage compartment that is ideal for your phone or electronics.

In the stern is an optional ski/tow bar, plus a three-step boarding ladder for easy access from the water. Other key features worth noting include the polished stainless corner castings, full rubrail with inserts and lights below and a quick-release bimini frame that doesn’t require any pins to lock it in.

Inspection Notes

For added durability, there are full-length risers, inside and out, that connect the 25-inch diameter pontoons to the frame which incorporates .190 hat-shaped cross members to add strength to the overall heavy-duty construction The Waveglider Performance Package provides a third pontoon with two lifting fins per pontoon for a total of six. From inside the bow gate to the rear bench seat there is nearly 15 feet of usable deck space. Our inspection crew found no sharp edges and everything in the hidden areas are all well-finished, earning this toon a high craftsmanship score.

Performance Evaluation

When you combine SeaStar hydraulic steering, the Waveglider Performance Package and a Yamaha 225hp four-stroke outboard, you have a recipe for a lot of fun. With a surprising zero to 20 mph time of just over four seconds and a top speed near the half century mark, there’s no telling what kind of fun you can have with this Tahoe. Just cruising around put a big smile on our faces.

Our Take

With the safe, family-friendly design we feel confident recommending this Tahoe to a wide range of users. She has the power to pull tubers and wakeboards so those with older children will love it. But the layout and design is also inviting for those who just want to cruise or entertain with or without the smaller kids. It’s a well-designed boat where nothing appears to be an afterthought. It’s a solid built ‘toon that, with all the amenities and features included, is sure to please everyone onboard.

Number of Occupants 11

Maximum Speed 46.5 mph

Wild Ponies 225hp

No. of Gates 3

0-20 MPH 4.2 seconds

Ladder Measurement 3’ deep

Why we love this boat…From the colors to the overall design, we just love the layout and the feel of this Tahoe that, as tested, has a lot going for it.

Just being picky…The raised helm platform leads to a higher positioned captain’s chair, which we feel makes the throttle position a little lower than we’re used to.

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Impact-resistant polished deck corners, 25" diameter pontoons, high flex bold chrome logos, Deco 2 two tone, SST dock lights built into walls, aluminum seat frames w/ Flo Thru ventilation, Matrix 50 Seat vinyl, Commander Low-Back reclining chair, woodgrain vinyl rear deck, Royal carpet, privacy station, woodgrain steering wheel w/ chrome spokes, Jensen MS2013BT Bluetooth Stereo w/ aux. and USB ports, 4 high-power stereo speakers, woodgrain dash and fiberglass helm stand.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

Waveglider Performance Pkg., in-tube ski storage, under rubrail lights, raised helm platform, ski/tow bar and faux teak decking vinyl.

VITAL STATS

LOA 23’ 6”

Beam 8’ 6”

Hull Design Triple Performance Pontoons

Dry Weight 2,800 lbs.

Fuel Capacity 32 gallons

TEST DRIVE

Engine Yamaha VF 225 LA

Cylinder Type V6

Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower 254ci/225hp