2025 Qwest E8520 Splash Pad L: In-Depth Review, Features, and Buyer's Guide

Overview

The 2025 Qwest E8520 Splash Pad L is a 20-foot aluminum pontoon built for families who want maximum on-water fun without the weight and complexity of a fiberglass hull. With a factory splash pad, built-in slide, and elevated swim deck, it targets buyers who spend more time playing on the water than fishing from it. At its price point, the E8520 Splash Pad L is a strong value proposition for lake families.

Splash Pad & Water Play Features

The defining feature of the E8520 Splash Pad L is the dedicated splash pad area at the stern — a rubberized play surface fed by an onboard freshwater system that keeps the deck cool and wet for children. A compact slide launches from the side gate into the water, and the low-profile swim platform makes re-boarding easy for all ages. This layout sets the E8520 apart from standard fishing pontoons in the same price band.

Deck Layout

The 20-foot deck is organized efficiently: forward lounge seating converts between a social arrangement and a sun platform, a center walkway stays clear for easy bow access, and the stern area is dedicated to the splash pad setup. Seating capacity is rated at 10 passengers. Storage is distributed throughout in under-seat compartments and a dedicated bow storage locker.

Engine & Performance

Qwest rates the E8520 Splash Pad L for engines up to 90 hp. A 60–75 hp four-stroke outboard from Mercury or Yamaha is the practical sweet spot — enough to reach comfortable cruising speeds in the mid-teens mph range and pull a tube rider without strain. The twin aluminum tubes provide a stable, predictable platform even with a full passenger load at anchor.

Build Quality

The all-aluminum deck, pontoon logs, and frame construction is Qwest's core strength. Aluminum resists corrosion better than fiberglass on freshwater lakes with varying water chemistry, and the structural integrity of the welded frame holds up well over years of family use. The flooring is marine-grade vinyl throughout, easy to clean after a full day of water play.

Value

Compared to similarly equipped splash-pad pontoons from Bennington or Sun Tracker's splash-pad trims, the Qwest E8520 Splash Pad L comes in at a competitive price while delivering the features that matter most to water-play-focused families. For lake families who want a dock-and-play boat, it earns its price.

Bottom Line

The Qwest E8520 Splash Pad L is a purposeful family fun boat that delivers on its core promise: a safe, entertaining on-water platform for children and adults alike. If your priority is water play over fishing or high-speed water sports, it belongs on your shortlist.