The "Cruise" designation on this particular Sun Catcher can be deceptive. We found that out when we settled into the recliner at the helm and pushed the throttle. A clipboard tumbled across the floor as if blown in a Missouri windstorm. The 200-horse Yamaha had us running like tournament fishermen — on pontoons.

The performance isn't tied entirely to the engine. Our test boat had three U-shaped pontoons that dropped 25 inches deep and an aluminum performance shield that covered every bit of the understructure for optimum hydrodynamics. The boat is weighted slightly more aft than similar pontoons, which, along with outer lifting strakes, helps raise the tubes. At 30 mph and beyond, the waterline breaks near midship, lessening drag. The stern-heavy attitude makes the boat easier to handle in tight quarters.

This Sun Catcher is a reminder that G3 and Yamaha have also teamed up to create a popular line of fishing-specific boats. Under the rear seat is a standard livewell with aerator pump. On the dash, behind an extra-high windscreen, is a Garmin fish finder. Traffic areas are broad because G3 added six inches of length to the tubes and deck — which also increased the horsepower rating to 200.

Yet this is still unquestionably a Cruise model. Our boat had an optional bow insert to fill out a U-shaped forward lounge, and because the rails are bolted to the furniture there's no rattling on board — unless a clipboard goes a-tumbling.

AT A GLANCE

A higher power rating and more space make this boat one of the more versatile in its category.

Test Drive

Test Engine: Yamaha 200 hp VMAX HPDI

Test Prop: 15.25 x 17, Saltwater Series 2

Test Load: People (400 lb.); Fuel (25 gal.)

Top Speed: 46.1 MPH @ 5,900 RPM

Time to 30 MPH: 6.3 sec.

Vital Stats

Length Overall: 22'6"

Beam: 8'6"

Dry Weight: 2,480 lb.

Seating/Weight Capacity: 14/2,800 lb.

Fuel Capacity: 30 gal.

Maximum HP: 200

NMMA Certified: Yes

MSRP (test boat): $33,695

Power Curve

RPM    MPH     Sound Level (db)

Idle       2.9        63

1,000    4.8        64

1,500    6.7        67

2,000    8.7        72

2,500    14.3      74

3,000    21.2      76

3,500    26.5      76

4,000    29.4      79

4,500    34.1      79

5,000    38.2      80

5,500    42.7      86

5,900    46.1      87