Twin outboards move to the centre of the transom
Barletta's design places the two outboards together at the centre of the stern rather than spreading them toward the outer edges of the pontoon package. The company says this reimagined arrangement is intended to improve how the boat performs and functions while retaining the broad social deck associated with a premium pontoon.
Engine position affects far more than appearance because thrust lines, steering response, swim access and transom structure all have to work together. Buyers comparing the 25MAT with a conventional twin-engine pontoon should therefore look closely at the complete stern layout rather than only the horsepower.
The concept sits within the premium Lusso range
The twin-engine model is part of Barletta's Lusso family, placing the new propulsion arrangement inside one of the builder's higher-specification series. Barletta is also showing the Lusso 25MAT alongside other Lusso models as part of its 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show lineup.
That positioning suggests the twin-engine layout is aimed at owners seeking more performance without moving away from the comfort-led pontoon format. The actual benefit will depend on engine specification, passenger load and the waters where the boat is normally used.
Central mounting changes the stern working area
Bringing both engines together can alter how the stern is used for boarding, watersports and line handling. Barletta says the design was developed with functionality and safety among its goals, although owners should inspect the finished platform to judge how well access works for their own use.
Twin outboards also bring duplicated servicing requirements and additional weight compared with a single-engine installation. Buyers should compare maintenance access, propeller clearance, fuel consumption and emergency capability before deciding whether the added propulsion complexity is worthwhile.
Fort Lauderdale will put the design in front of buyers
Barletta lists the Lusso 25MAT among the boats scheduled for its Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show display from 28 October to 1 November 2026. The event will give prospective owners a chance to compare the unusual engine arrangement directly with more conventional Barletta layouts.
A static show inspection cannot replace an on-water demonstration, particularly for a propulsion layout marketed around handling and performance. A sea trial should focus on acceleration, low-speed manoeuvring, turning behaviour and how the stern behaves when passengers move around the boat.
Official sources: www.barlettapontoonboats.com; www.barlettapontoonboats.com.