BARLETTA C24UE
The new Barletta C-Class pontoons hit the waterways in 2021 with solid construction and a raft of standard features, all at a reasonably low price point. Set up for an owner who plans to host a crowd of guests, the C24UE model we tested came equipped with the Ultimate Entertainer (UE) layout, which places a bench seat with pivoting backrest to port at the side-entry gate. Right behind that is a console with a marblelike top and a pair of bar seats. Guests perched on the bench seat have the choice of facing forward or facing the bar. Aft is the four-way Barletta Ultra Lounge with pivoting backrest. This layout leaves a generous passageway to port to the rear platform, and room to stow a large cooler on the deck. Forward seating consists of a pair of richly upholstered facing bench seats with lounging backrests and armrests at the consoles.
Barletta makes ordering easier by grouping popular options into packages. Our test boat was equipped for saltwater use with the Coastal Edition Package (aluminum-framed captain’s seat, saltwater anodes, sealed lifting strakes and rinse kit) and the new Blackout Package (black rails, rub rail and skirting, plus a black Bimini top). That 10-foot power Bimini is a surprising standard feature at this price level. Our boat also had an optional front power Bimini for full shade coverage. The Tri-Toon Package includes three 25-inch tubes with inboard and outboard singlestage strakes on the center tube, and a full belly skin, 34-gallon fuel tank, hydraulic steering, in-floor storage and a tow bar. A premium Hertz audio system with Bluetooth and six speakers is standard.
Rated for up to 200 hp, the triple-tube
C-Class models have single I-beam cross members topped with the effective rubber Barletta Vibration Isolation Pads that serve to insulate the deck—and passengers—from engine vibration. In standard Barletta fashion, the helm features exceptional legroom plus a tilt wheel, features we appreciated during our time running this ’toon. The analog display is augmented by a standard Lowrance Hook-5 fish finder/plotter. This pontoon does not look or feel like the entry-level model in any builder’s line.