First Impressions of Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console
The Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console promises to be an integral upgrade for any pontoon boat owner looking to enhance comfort and functionality. From the Wise brand, known for its quality boat seating and accessories, this console boasts a rotational molded plastic construction and a soft-touch marine vinyl cover. It also features convenient, color-matched dual plastic cup holders and a removable front panel for easy access.
I’ve been retrofitting pontoon boats for over a decade, and the lack of a comfortable, well-designed steering console is a common complaint. Many factory-installed consoles are flimsy and lack essential features. This console grabbed my attention due to its promised durability, easy access for wiring, and, most importantly, the integrated cup holders – a small but critical convenience for any pontoon cruise!
My initial hands-on experience involved unboxing and a quick visual inspection. The rotational molded plastic felt sturdy, suggesting resistance to the harsh marine environment. The marine-grade vinyl had a pleasant, soft touch, and the color appeared consistent and well-applied. It felt significantly more robust than some of the cheaper, injection-molded consoles I’ve encountered.
Compared to similar consoles from brands like Springfield Marine or West Marine, the Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console appeared to offer a better balance of features and price. Some competitor models lack the convenient access panel, while others utilize less durable materials. The decision to go with Wise was largely based on my past experiences with their products, which have consistently proven to be reliable and long-lasting.
My first impression was positive and cautiously optimistic. The console appeared to be well-built and thoughtfully designed, suggesting it would be a significant upgrade over a basic, bare-bones setup. Now, it was time to see if it could withstand the rigors of real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console on a 24-foot pontoon boat used primarily for recreational fishing and leisurely lake cruises. The initial installation took approximately two hours, including running the necessary wiring for the gauges and stereo system. This was done at a local lake, known for its choppy waters and unpredictable weather.
The console performed admirably in slightly rough conditions. The robust construction minimized rattling and vibrations, which is a significant improvement over the previous, less stable console. The placement of the cup holders proved perfect for holding beverages securely, even when navigating moderate waves.
The removable front access panel made wiring a breeze. Running cables for the fish finder, GPS, and stereo was significantly easier than with consoles that offer limited or no access. I experienced no immediate issues or surprises beyond the need for a few extra zip ties to neatly manage the wiring harness.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of regular use, the Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console has held up exceptionally well. The vinyl cover still looks brand new, showing no signs of fading or cracking from prolonged exposure to sunlight. The plastic construction remains solid and free of any noticeable wear and tear.
Cleaning the console is remarkably simple. A quick wipe-down with mild soap and water is sufficient to remove any dirt, grime, or fish scales. The marine-grade vinyl resists staining, making cleanup even easier.
This console outperforms any previous console I have used on a pontoon boat. The combination of durability, convenient features, and ease of maintenance makes it a standout product. Its construction also provides a significant improvement in overall comfort and usability.
Breaking Down the Features of Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console
Specifications
The Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console features a rotational molded plastic construction. This construction is known for its exceptional strength and resistance to impacts and environmental factors. The console is covered in a soft-touch, UV and mildew-treated marine-grade vinyl. The vinyl provides a comfortable and durable surface that can withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight and moisture.
The console also boasts color-matched dual plastic cup holders, strategically placed for easy access. A removable front inside access panel simplifies wire and cable installation. Its dimensions are: 16.5 inches in Width, 34.5 inches in Height, and 28 inches in Length.
These specifications contribute significantly to the console’s performance and user experience. The rotational molded plastic provides a solid and stable platform, while the marine-grade vinyl ensures long-lasting comfort and protection. The access panel and cup holders further enhance the console’s practicality and convenience.
Performance & Functionality
The Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console excels at providing a comfortable and functional helm station. Its robust construction ensures stability and minimizes vibrations, even in rough water conditions. The thoughtfully designed access panel streamlines the installation and maintenance of essential boat electronics.
The console’s strengths include its durability, ease of installation, and convenient features like the integrated cup holders. A potential area for improvement might be the addition of a small storage compartment for frequently used items. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a mid-range pontoon steering console.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console features a clean and practical design. The marine-grade vinyl provides a comfortable seating surface, and the dimensions offer ample space for mounting gauges, a steering wheel, and other essential controls. The overall weight is manageable, allowing for relatively easy installation and repositioning if needed.
The console is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring minimal setup or configuration. The removable access panel is a particularly well-designed feature, making wiring and maintenance tasks straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console is built to last. The rotational molded plastic and marine-grade vinyl are highly resistant to damage from sunlight, water, and impacts. With proper care and maintenance, this console should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is sufficient to keep the console looking its best. The removable access panel also simplifies any necessary repairs or modifications.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console does not come with any specific accessories beyond the cup holders. However, it is designed to be compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including steering wheels, gauges, throttle controls, and stereo systems. The flat mounting surface provides ample space for customization.
The console is also compatible with various universal mounting brackets and hardware, allowing for the installation of accessories from other brands. This versatility makes it easy to personalize the console to suit individual needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console
Pros
- Durable rotational molded plastic construction: Ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to environmental factors.
- Soft-touch marine-grade vinyl cover: Provides a comfortable and stylish seating surface.
- Convenient removable front access panel: Simplifies wire and cable installation and maintenance.
- Color-matched dual plastic cup holders: Offer a convenient and secure place to store beverages.
- Easy to clean and maintain: Simplifies upkeep and prolongs the console’s lifespan.
Cons
- Lacks integrated storage compartment: Limits onboard organization options.
- No included accessories beyond cup holders: Requires separate purchase of essential components like steering wheel and gauges.
Who Should Buy Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console?
The Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console is perfect for pontoon boat owners looking to upgrade their existing helm station with a durable, comfortable, and functional console. It is especially well-suited for recreational boaters, anglers, and families who prioritize comfort and convenience on the water. DIY enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their boats will appreciate the console’s ease of installation and compatibility with aftermarket accessories.
Those seeking a console with integrated storage or pre-installed accessories may want to explore other options. If you are looking for a console that is ready to go right out of the box, then this may not be a great fit for you. Also, if space is a major constraint, meticulously measure your available area, as this console is designed for standard-sized pontoons.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality steering wheel, marine-grade gauges (such as a speedometer, tachometer, and fuel gauge), and a reliable throttle control system.
Conclusion on Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console
The Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console is a well-built and thoughtfully designed product that offers a significant upgrade in comfort, functionality, and durability compared to many stock consoles. Its robust construction, convenient access panel, and comfortable vinyl cover make it a worthwhile investment for any pontoon boat owner.
The price of $439.49 is justified by the console’s quality, features, and long-term value. While it may require the separate purchase of additional accessories, the console’s compatibility with aftermarket components allows for a high degree of customization.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Wise Premier Pontoon Steering Console to anyone looking to enhance their pontoon boat experience. It’s a reliable, comfortable, and practical addition that will undoubtedly improve your time on the water. Upgrade your pontoon today and experience the difference a quality steering console can make!