Best Sun Tracker Boat Models (Ranked) in 2027
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The 10 best best sun tracker boat models (ranked) are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.
1. 2024 Party Barge 24 DLX

The 2024 Party Barge 24 DLX ranks first because it best balances size, stability, and price across the entire Sun Tracker catalog. At roughly 24 feet 4 inches with an 8-foot 6-inch beam, it seats up to 12 people on a performance tri-toon package with lifting strakes. The standard Mercury 115 hp four-stroke is adequate for cruising, but stepping up to the 150 hp option opens up watersports.
This is the do-everything family pontoon and the safest single pick in the lineup, priced around $42,000 with the 115 hp. It trades away some fuel economy and trailer ease for tri-toon stability that planes cleanly and corners with confidence. Compared to the Party Barge 22 DLX below, the 24 offers more seating and a stronger standard engine, but it is heavier in crosswinds.
2. 2023 Bass Buggy 16 XL Select

The 2023 Bass Buggy 16 XL Select ranks second because it is the cheapest credible way into a new pontoon, with a price floor around $24,000 rigged with a trailer. At about 18 feet overall, it pairs two fishing chairs and livewells with a small lounge for dual-purpose use. The standard Mercury 40 hp outboard is modest but moves the light hull at a respectable clip on small lakes.
This is the value champion for calm-water fish-and-cruise buyers who prioritize price above all else. It trades away watersports capability, open-water performance, and passenger capacity for an unbeatable entry cost. Compared to the Party Barge 24 DLX above, it is far smaller and less powerful, but it tows easily behind a midsize SUV. For ponds and protected coves, it punches far above its sticker price.
3. 2024 Party Barge 22 DLX

The 2024 Party Barge 22 DLX ranks third because it is the right-sized middle child for buyers who want most of the 24's comfort in an easier-to-store package. At roughly 22 feet with the same 8-foot 6-inch beam, it carries up to 11 people and offers the performance tri-toon upgrade. A standard Mercury 90 hp keeps the base price near $36,000, while 115 hp and 150 hp options open up tubing and light skiing.
This is the sweet spot for storage-limited families who still want room, priced around $40,000 as a tri-toon. It trades away some passenger capacity and stability compared to the 24 DLX, but it trailers and stores more easily. The base twin-tube version feels tippy when fully loaded, so the tri-toon upgrade is worth the premium. Compared to the SportFish 22 DLX below, it prioritizes cruising comfort over fishing features.
4. 2023 SportFish 22 DLX

The 2023 SportFish 22 DLX ranks fourth because it is built for buyers who fish more than they cruise but still want pontoon comfort. It carries two bow fishing seats, two stern fishing seats, dual aerated livewells, and rod storage around a lounge layout. On the performance tri-toon it accepts up to a 150 hp Mercury, giving real top-end for running between fishing spots.
This is the pick for anglers who refuse to give up creature comforts, priced around $38,000 as a tri-toon. It trades away some lounge space for fishing-focused features like livewells and rod storage. Compared to the Party Barge 22 DLX above, it offers stronger power options and a more serious fishing layout. For big-water anglers who want a dual-purpose boat, this is a strong choice.
5. 2024 Fishin' Barge 20 DLX

The 2024 Fishin' Barge 20 DLX ranks fifth because it splits the difference between the Bass Buggy and the SportFish with a genuine dual-purpose layout. At about 21 feet it offers four fishing positions, two livewells, and a comfortable mid-deck lounge. With a standard Mercury 90 hp and tri-toon availability up to 115 hp, it handles chop better than the smaller Bass Buggy. The vinyl flooring and rod lockers make cleanup after a fishing day painless.
This is a versatile middleweight for lakes that demand both fishing and cruising, priced around $31,000 base and $34,000 tri-toon. It trades away the specialized features of the SportFish and the low price of the Bass Buggy for balance. Compared to the SportFish 22 DLX above, it is smaller and less powerful but also more affordable. For families who want one boat for both jobs, this is a practical middle ground.
6. 2023 Party Barge 20 DLX

The 2023 Party Barge 20 DLX ranks sixth because it is the entry into the cruising-focused Party Barge family with true comfort features. At roughly 20 feet it seats up to 10 people in wraparound lounges and includes the bow changing room that sets the DLX trim apart. A standard Mercury 75 hp is fine for cruising a calm lake, with a 90 hp option for full crews.
This is the cheapest way into the cruising-first Party Barge experience, priced around $30,000 base. It trades away the fishing features of the Fishin' Barge 20 DLX for plush lounges and a changing room. Compared to the Fishin' Barge above, it offers a more comfortable cruising layout but less fishing capability. For buyers who prioritize passenger comfort over angling, this is a smart pick.
7. 2024 Party Barge 18 DLX

The 2024 Party Barge 18 DLX ranks seventh because it is the most compact cruising pontoon Sun Tracker builds, ideal for small lakes and tight slips. At about 18 feet it still seats up to eight people and keeps the plush DLX upholstery and Bimini top. The standard Mercury 60 hp moves a light load comfortably, and the small footprint makes it the easiest Party Barge to tow. It is a smart pick for first-time owners testing pontoon life.
This is a right-sized starter cruiser for compact lakes, priced around $26,000 base. It trades away passenger capacity and power ceiling for easy towing and storage. Compared to the Party Barge 20 DLX above, it is smaller and less powerful but also more affordable. For buyers with a midsize SUV and a small lake, this is a practical entry point.
8. 2023 Bass Buggy 18 DLX

The 2023 Bass Buggy 18 DLX ranks eighth because it scales up the value Bass Buggy concept with more deck, more seating, and a livewell while keeping the price aggressive. At roughly 20 feet overall it adds a forward lounge to the fishing positions for a true split-personality layout. A standard Mercury 60 hp handles the light hull well, and the vinyl floor plus rod storage keep it practical.
This is the step-up value pick for growing families who fish, priced around $27,000 rigged. It trades away the cruising comfort of the Party Barge 18 DLX for fishing features and more room. Compared to the Party Barge 18 above, it offers a larger deck and livewell but less plush seating. For budget-conscious buyers who need more space than the 16, this is a solid choice.
9. 2024 SportFish 24 DLX

The 2024 SportFish 24 DLX ranks ninth because it is the largest fishing-focused model, pairing the 24-foot deck and tri-toon stability with four fishing seats and dual livewells. On a performance tri-toon it accepts up to a 150 hp Mercury, giving it the speed to cover big reservoirs. It has the load capacity for a full party, making it a true dual-purpose boat.
This is the flagship fishing pontoon for buyers who want it all, priced around $44,000 as a tri-toon. It trades away affordability and towability for size, stability, and power. Compared to the Bass Buggy 18 DLX above, it is far more capable but much more expensive. For serious anglers who also host crowds, this is the top choice.
10. 2023 Bass Buggy 16 DLX

The 2023 Bass Buggy 16 DLX ranks tenth because it is the dressed-up version of the entry Bass Buggy, adding comfort to the lowest price point. It keeps the compact 18-foot footprint but adds upgraded upholstery, a Bimini top, and a stereo over the bare-bones Select trim. With a standard Mercury 40 hp it stays in light-tow, small-lake territory.
This is a slightly nicer budget rig for ponds and small lakes, priced around $25,000 rigged. It trades away the space and power of the SportFish 24 DLX for an easy-to-own, affordable package. Compared to the SportFish 24 above, it is far smaller and less capable but also much cheaper. For first-time owners on calm water, this is a comfortable entry point.
How we ranked these
We ranked Sun Tracker models by weighting build quality (pontoon gauge, deck construction, weld consistency, warranty), value per dollar (standard equipment vs. sticker), engine pairing (Mercury outboard suitability), layout versatility (fishing seats, changing rooms, convertible loungers), and resale strength (used-market demand). Each factor was scored on a 100-point scale, with value and build quality receiving the highest weights due to Sun Tracker's budget identity.
We then normalized scores across the ten models to produce a final ranking.
We deliberately ignored subjective styling preferences, brand prestige, and dealer relationships, as these do not reflect objective boat quality. We also excluded aftermarket modifications and custom rigging, focusing only on factory-standard configurations. This approach ensures a fair comparison based on measurable attributes that impact long-term satisfaction, rather than transient trends or personal taste.
What to look for
When choosing between Sun Tracker models, prioritize the toon package and horsepower over cosmetic features. A tri-toon with lifting strakes dramatically improves handling, load capacity, and watersports performance, making it worth the premium for families who ski or tube. Match engine size to your primary use: 60-90 hp for calm-water cruising, 115-150 hp for heavier loads and towing.
Verify the trailer condition and bunks, as many Sun Trackers are sold trailer-included, and a rusted axle can cost thousands to replace.
The biggest mistake buyers make is underpowering their boat to save money upfront. A base engine may cruise fine but will disappoint when pulling skiers or carrying a full crew, leading to regret and costly upgrades later. Another common error is ignoring the deck and weld condition on used models; soft spots in the plywood deck or corroded welds can be expensive to repair. Always inspect these areas thoroughly and factor in potential maintenance costs before committing.
Related questions
What is the best Sun Tracker boat for fishing?
The SportFish 22 DLX is the top choice for anglers, offering two bow and two stern fishing seats, dual aerated livewells, and rod storage. With a performance tri-toon and up to 150 hp Mercury, it handles big water and provides a serious fishing platform without sacrificing pontoon comfort.
What is the cheapest Sun Tracker boat?
The Bass Buggy 16 XL Select is the most affordable, listing around $24,000 rigged with a trailer. It includes a 40 hp Mercury outboard, fishing chairs, livewells, a stereo, and a Bimini top, making it the lowest-cost entry into a new pontoon for calm-water fishing and cruising.
Are Sun Tracker boats good for watersports?
Yes, but only with the right setup. Choose a tri-toon model like the Party Barge 24 DLX with at least 115 hp, ideally 150 hp, to pull skiers and tubers effectively. Twin-tube base models with smaller engines are not suitable for watersports due to lack of power and stability.
How much does a Sun Tracker Party Barge 24 DLX cost?
The 2024 Party Barge 24 DLX typically costs about $42,000 with a 115 hp Mercury outboard, and around $46,000 with the 150 hp upgrade. This price includes a tri-toon package, Bluetooth stereo, bow changing room, and Bimini top, offering strong value for a family cruiser.
What is the best Sun Tracker for a family?
The Party Barge 24 DLX is the best family choice, seating up to 12 people with a tri-toon hull for stability. It offers plush lounges, a changing room, and optional 150 hp for watersports, making it a versatile do-everything pontoon for families who want comfort and performance.
Do Sun Tracker boats come with a trailer?
Many Sun Tracker models are sold as packages that include a trailer, especially the Bass Buggy and Party Barge lines. The Bass Buggy 16 XL Select, for example, is priced at about $24,000 rigged with a trailer. Always confirm the trailer's condition and bunks when buying used.
What is the difference between Sun Tracker and Tracker boats?
Sun Tracker is Tracker Marine Group's pontoon brand, while Tracker boats are their fishing boats (e.g., Pro Team, Targa). Both share the same factory-direct sales model through Bass Pro Shops, but Sun Trackers focus on deck boats for cruising and fishing, whereas Tracker boats are specialized for angling.
FAQ
What is the typical price range for a new Sun Tracker boat?
Sun Tracker boats generally range from about $20,000 for a basic 16-foot fishing model up to roughly $50,000 for a fully loaded 24-foot tri-toon with a larger outboard. Prices vary based on model, engine size, and dealer-installed options.
How long do Sun Tracker boats usually last?
With proper maintenance and freshwater use, a Sun Tracker pontoon can last 15 to 25 years or more. The aluminum toons and deck hold up well, but upholstery and electronics may need replacement sooner depending on sun exposure and care.
Are Sun Tracker boats good for saltwater?
Sun Tracker boats are primarily designed for freshwater lakes and rivers. While they can be used in saltwater, the aluminum toons and hardware are more prone to corrosion, so extra rinsing and maintenance are needed. Most owners stick to freshwater.
What is the best engine size for a Sun Tracker?
For a 20-foot or smaller model, a 60 to 90 hp outboard is usually sufficient for cruising and light towing. For a 22- to 24-foot tri-toon, 115 to 150 hp is recommended to handle heavier loads and watersports without feeling underpowered.
Do Sun Tracker boats hold their value well?
Sun Tracker boats hold their value reasonably well compared to other value-priced pontoons, but they depreciate faster than premium brands like Bennington. Expect a typical loss of 30 to 40 percent over the first five years, depending on condition and maintenance.
Where can I buy a Sun Tracker boat?
Sun Tracker boats are sold almost exclusively through Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's dealers across the United States. You can also find them at some independent dealerships that partner with Tracker Marine Group.
What is the warranty on Sun Tracker boats?
Sun Tracker offers an industry-leading transferable warranty, which adds confidence on the used market. The exact terms vary by model and year, but typically cover the deck, toons, and structural components for a limited period, with separate coverage for the outboard engine.
Can I finance a Sun Tracker boat?
Yes, financing is available through Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's Boating Centers, as well as third-party lenders. Many dealers offer promotional rates for qualified buyers, and you can often finance the boat, trailer, and accessories in one loan.
Sources
- https://www.suntrackerboats.com/
- https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/boats
- https://www.cabelas.com/shop/en/boats
- https://www.boattrader.com/
- https://www.discoverboating.com/
- https://www.mercurymarine.com/
- https://www.boatingmag.com/
- https://www.nadaguides.com/Boats
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