By: Scott Way
Sea-Doo has just announced the launch of the all-new Switch series of pontoon boats.. The new lineup of jet-drive pontoons will be available in three models, the Switch Compact, Switch Cruise, and the Switch Sport ranging from 13 to 21 feet.
The unique design of the Switch series will undoubtedly turn heads. Every Switch model will use handlebar-style steering similar to a standard PWC. Even more, they will also offer the industry's first braking system on a pontoon with SeaDoo's proprietary iBR (Intelligent Brake & Reverse) module that redirects water to induce direction changes. Throttle, brake, and reverse will be controlled via bicycle handbrake-style levers. Steering, docking, and launching are all done via the handlebars for a simple and responsive driving experience.
In a company press release, BRP President and CEO José Boisjoli stated, “Over the years, we have proven that BRP is able to disrupt the industry by creating new segments. Our team has done it once again with the Sea-Doo Switch, which will revolutionize the pontoon market! Switch is uniquely positioned to attract new entrants and a younger generation."
Each Switch model is built around a tri-hull pontoon configuration with a new platform flooring system Sea-Doo calls LinQ Cargo Tile. The 16-inch tiles add attachment points around the deck where various LinQ accessories can be connected. The modular tiles also allow users to swap out accessories as needed, change seating configurations, or make storage easier by simply removing accessories for the off-season. The flat-bottom design of the seats, tables, storage bins, and other accessories mean they can be moved around the deck or even onto land if users go ashore and want to bring accessories for things like a dock party or a BBQ.
The tri-hull design offers greater stability at rest and slow speeds while sitting higher in the water while underway. This enables the Switch to slice through turns with the center pontoon acting as the keel of the hull.
To make ownership as pain-free as possible all new Switch pontoon boats will come as a complete package including trailer and engine. This simplifies options for dealers and buyers and allows new owners to immediately hit the water without having to purchase additional accessories or configure the boat beyond the manufacturer's layout.
Power options for all three models will come in the form of Rotax jet engines. The 13-foot Switch Compact model will be offered in 100 hp, while the 16, 18, 19, and 21 foot iterations will also have 170 hp and 230 hp power options available. The core of Rotax power comes via a 1630 cc ACE power plant.
Standard features across all 3 Switch models include:
● 3 Driving Modes: Eco, Standard and
Sport
● iBR (Intelligent brake & reverse)
● Dedicated anchor storage
● Underdeck storage compartment
● Cruise control
● Switch Modular Deck
● LinQ attachment points
● Retractable boarding ladder
● Clear-view side panels
● iDF - Intelligent Debris-Free System
● Ski tow eye
● Rotax 1630cc Engine with Closed-Loop
Cooling System (CLCS)
● Switch Tri-Hull design
● Painted trailer included
Other standout features include the industry's first transparent rails allowing for a full 360-degree view while aboard. The Switch Camper accessory also offers full protection from the elements while maintaining a 360 field of view. A bimini top, swim platform, sound system, and navigation will all make for handy additions for every user. For those into watersports, the Switch Sport will come equipped with a quick-attach inflatable holder for tube storage, a rearview mirror, Garmin GPS, and Sea-Doo's exclusive Ski Mode for adjusting the intensity of launches while maintaining constant speed.
The Sea-Doo Switch lineup offers an impressively economical entry point in a unique platform for recreationalists of all kinds. Full packages including trailer, boat, and engine start at just $17,999 USD.
Check out the full walkaround of the Sea-Doo Switch Cruise below:
Selling my tritoon to get one of these