Sunchaser 8522 CNF

Boat Test #1391

Whether it’s family fun or serious fishing, this pontoon can do it all

It has often been said that the great thing about pontoon boats is their seating capacity, accommodating the entire family with ease. But what is even more impressive is their tremendous versatility, accommodating all the different ways those family members choose to enjoy their time on the water.
A great example of this unique ability to please everyone aboard can be found in SunChaser’s 8522 Cruise-n-Fish, a comfortable and versatile pontoon that’s equal parts family day boat and serious fishing machine.
Stretching a full 23 feet, 10 inches in length, the 8522 CNF seats a dozen people in comfort, meaning the average family will have plenty of space to stretch out and relax in the sun. Twin lounge seats in the bow section feature upgraded upholstery with Rotocast bases that provide a huge amount of storage space. Between the loungers, a small aluminum base in the 22-ounce sculpted carpeting accepts a removable pedestal-base table with a pair of integral beverage holders, creating a comfy lunch spot.

The attractive fibreglass helm console also includes a couple of beverage holders in its top, surrounding a small but effective removable windscreen. The dash panel puts the essential gauges right up top where they’re easily seen, while the control head for the Infinity AM/FM/MP3 stereo sits just to the left of the steering wheel. There’s built-in cool-er storage in the console base as well. Our review boat features SunChaser’s upgraded Executive Helm package, which includes an upgraded console with full instrumentation, an upgraded tilt steering wheel and courtesy lighting – and places it all on a raised platform for better visibility. The helm seat is a full Captain’s chair with fold-down arm rests and a base that both swivels and slides, allowing the seat to be perfectly positioned for drivers of all heights.
Opposite the helm is a wrap-around port-side lounge seat, with another base for the pedestal table. With the helm seat swiveled around to face it, this creates another snack spot – this one under the shade of the standard eight-foot, six-inch bimini top. An optional extension allows this top to cover the entire boat if desired.
But what truly makes the SunChaser 8522 Cruise-n-Fish unique is its stern fishing station, with twin pedestal-mount fishing seats and an innovative fishing station console – complete with rod holders, beverage holders, storage for four rods, a molded-in measuring tape for measuring fish, and an aerated live well to keep the catch of the day fresh.
Because the 8522 CNF is a master of versatility, it also includes a large rear swim platform with a boarding ladder and a flip-up change room. The change room is surprisingly large, and can be fitted with an available Porta-potti.
Although this boat comes well equipped with an extensive standard feature list, the option list is perhaps even more impressive, including stereo upgrades, underwater lighting, a ski tow pylon, an available cooler table and a variety of canvas tops. Many of the more popular upgrades are grouped together in convenient packages, including no less than three different performance bundles which add goodies like an under-deck shield and third pontoon tube with lifting strakes.
With its ability to do so much and in such comfort, SunChaser’s 8522 Cruise-n-Fish is a versatile and satisfying pontoon that’s sure to please every member of the family.
By Craig Ritchie