Description :

Recently I had the chance to do an evening cruise on the new 2023 Manitou Explore 24 and can honestly say I’ve never been on a more comfortable and modern pontoon boat. Manitou has managed to redesign many aspects of the traditional pontoon successfully without losing the core values of this popular, family-friendly boat type. Since the only family I really have (willing to join me) is my dog Bean, she came along for our little merry holiday sleigh ride on the water. Stocked with hot cocoa, music blaring, and in search of Christmas lights, we were ready to sit back and enjoy the many new amenities this pontoon has to offer.

Engine & Performance

The first thing we noticed right away was the Rotax S – the first outboard engine with stealth technology – and how it sits below the versatile MAX deck (which unlocks up to 38 square feet of multi-use space for storing coolers and toys, or for recreational use) while still providing all of the usual benefits of an outboard motor. You can barely see it when the boat is in the water.

MAX Deck Option

Manitou’s MAX Deck option unlocks up to 20% more functional space at the stern and is available exclusively on models powered with the Rotax S115 and S150. Easy access for recreational activities, space to store water toys, coolers and more is provided by this nice option.

Seating & Layout

The Explore 24, as with the other two Explore models from Manitou (the 22 and 26), is available in 3 main layout packages: Bench, Switchback and Navigator. We were on the Navigator for our tests, with two captain’s chairs midship. One of the things that always makes pontoon boats a great choice for families is the amount of space and seating you have on board. The Manitou Explore certainly does not disappoint in this area, with the deck space getting a more polished and modern makeover without sacrificing any of the comforts.

At The Helm

A new dashboard layout and design dedicates 4 unique sections of the helm to key functions, ensuring that phone charging, radio control, vessel monitoring, and vessel switching are accessible and intuitive. All three versions of the Manitou Explore come with Garmin 9″ touchscreen digital display integrated into the dash with digital switching and preprogrammed buttons. The 24 has 12 USB charging ports throughout the boat as well.

Sound System & Creature Comforts

Thirteen newly-designed cupholders and premium speakers have been integrated into the walls to offer an enhanced onboard experience without sacrificing space. A Fusion sound system (RA-210) is available with w/4x 6″ Fusion speakers pumping sound throughout the boat.

• Air Conditioning
• AM/FM Radio
• Cassette Player
• CD Player
• Cool Box
• Cruise Control
• DVD Player
• Immobilizer Key
• Navigation System
• Power Steering
• Power Windows
• Reversing Camera