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2025 Legend 18XT Sport

Boat Reviews

Boat Review by: Rick Layzell

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Just like the auto sector, most boat companies make a handful of running changes to their lineup each year while sprinkling in a new model or two. For 2025, however, Legend Boats has made massive changes to their lineup, and it starts with their commitment to simplifying the purchasing experience.

Anytime we make the buying process easier, I am intrigued to see the changes while cautiously monitoring miscues or cut corners. No mistakes here – just a brilliantly executed reinvention of a Canadian mainstay in aluminum fishing boats.

First change is the reduction from 11 to 4 models. Whoa, that’s huge. Second is an utter simplification to a lengthy list of standard features, reduced options, and a choice of only two colors. Perfect.

We were welcomed onboard the 18XT while the 17XT rested dockside (you know I went and had a peak at the 17 as well). Curb appeal will always be essential as we want our boats to look great both outside and inside. The big and bold 18XT insignia on the rear side panels stands out for miles against the deep blue background colour. The addition of a contour map-inspired graphic is brilliant in both colors, and I noted the blue on our test boat was accented onto the cowling of the Mercury 115 HP four stroke engine and onto the side rails of the matched trailer in this package. The Legend logo in raised black lettering against the white hull side is striking, and it’s capped off with colour-matched gunnels. I even took note of how the hull side black downward stripes below the windshield paired with the black frame of the windshield itself. There is some very crafty handiwork in these designs.

Moving inside, I first noticed the new bimini design is forward-facing, adding even more curb appeal. We were welcomed to their cognac interior vinyl with subtle black and grey accent trim (I love it).

The EZ flip rear casting deck houses a chair base, livewell, two battery storage compartments, and additional storage. There’s also a base here for the ski tow bar (included with the Sport package). I like the 50/50 bench design here which offers a half deck for angling while one of the other kids (or Mom or Dad) can sit comfortably in the jump seat.

Under both gunnels there are storage compartments for rods up to 7’ in length. A lockable in floor rod locker will take care of up to 6 more of your angling investments.

One of the coolest creations I have seen in years is the ‘Frunk’. This takes the forward casting deck and extends the centre storage to meet your needs. Need tons of storage? Set the Frunk door between the helm stations and you have a massive space. Need a little less and want to experience the ‘Walk-in’ convertible bow? No sweat, move the Frunk door to the 2nd position, fold the cover forward, and you now have a walk-in bow seating area for your guests.

The Sport package adds in-bow bolsters, a front wrap bolster, and bow cushions to create a welcoming space for relaxing on a hot summer day.

Fishing features up front include a pair of bow battery storage trays, pre-wired trolling motor, and Legend’s new ‘RIGS’ – Railmountz Integrated Gunnel System. This new system starts in the bow and runs the full length of the gunnel to the stern, making setting your accessories in the right position for your day a breeze.

The captain and co-captain seats are freshly updated and re-patterned, swivel 360 degrees, and most importantly are super comfortable. The helm is nestled in behind a tall windshield that features a Deluxe Command View console, simple to reset circuit breakers, illuminated switches, and functional gauges. The Jensen sound system adds a pair of speakers to bring your favourite sounds out onto the water.

Out on the water, the 18XT will get you to your favourite fishing hole, restaurant, or water sports area in style and with speed. I was delighted to find consistent hole shots under 4 seconds and thoroughly enjoyed cruising the 18XT at 21 and 25 MPH. Top speed for me came in at an even 44 MPH with the Mercury spinning at 5,800 RPM. Very acceptable test results for this package.

Legend fans will have a lot to look at, and even more to talk about, in 2025. What they won’t have to do is scratch their head trying to understand endless models and options. The XT Series is easy to buy, proud to own, and an exceptional boat.