2024 Manitou Explore 24 MAX

The Explore 24 MAX is easy to operate at any speed. Bill Doster

The Manitou Explore’s trademark MAX Deck returns for 2024—with 2 feet more. The Explore MAX features a wide-open aft deck, ideal for watersports compared to typical pontoons. Additionally, BRP LinQ mounts make it easy to install accessories, like a cooler or a gear box. The hidden, low-profile Rotax S150 outboard that makes the MAX design possible also gets a companion, creating a 300 hp duo that adds nearly 15 mph to top-end performance. Twin engines and digital power steering also make joystick piloting possible, taking the stress out of close-quarters maneuvering.

While the deck-outboard combo aft is a game-changer, it’s the Explore’s sleek perimeter design that first draws the eye. Formed from a near-seamless collection of formed aluminum panels, it’s automotive-inspired and thoroughly modern. Individual panels are removable in the unlikely event of damage. A top rail cap includes LinQ Lite mounts ready for everything from fenders to stemware. The overhead Sport Bimini flows from the design and incorporates a sturdy, gas-assisted Bimini top rated for up to 55 mph. Belowdecks, Manitou’s patented V-Toon Technology drops the center tube to create deadrise, mimicking the feel of a V-hull.

Forward couches pair with parallel lounges aft. Bill Doster

A sleek, minimalist helm includes a standard 12-inch Garmin display. Bill Doster

Accommodations complete the boat’s modern aesthetic. The Switchback layout pairs forward couches with parallel lounges aft that feature adjustable backrests fore and aft. Recline them back for forward-facing comfort, or pivot forward to switch the focus to a more social setting or to look out onto the water and the MAX Deck. A pair of Manitou’s Trifold Benches, concealed in the middle of each aft couch, offers additional three-in-one functionality by converting from seating to a dinette table, or pivoting entirely out of the way to create two facing seats with feet-on-the-floor legroom.

The Switchback layout offers multiple configurations. Bill Doster

Discretely tucked within the inwales are speakers and cup holders. A sleek, minimalist helm includes a standard 12-inch Garmin display featuring Garmin Boat Switch digital switching, a Fusion stereo head unit and a wireless charging cubby.

The deck-outboard combo aft is a game-change. Bill Doster

High Points

Three available color combos.
Fusion RA-670 audio with six speakers, a subwoofer and an eight-channel amp.
Standard composite decking, powder-coated tubes, woven flooring, lit center-tube storage and USB charging.

Manitou Explore 24 MAX Certified Test Results Boating Magazine

How We Tested

Engines: Twin 150 hp Rotax S outboards
Drive/Props: Outboard/Rotax Viper 14.5″ x 21″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 2.08:1 Fuel Load: 50 gal.

Pricing and Specs

Price:	$123,799 (with twin Rotax S150 outboards)
LOA:	28’4″
Beam:	8’6″
Draft (max):	NA
Dry Weight:	4,258 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity:	10/1,410 lb.
Fuel Capacity:	90 gal.