Inhaltsverzeichnis für Boating Buyers Guide 2020 in Boating

SPECS: LOA: 10'10.6" BEAM: 4'1.2" DRY WEIGHT: 739 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 3/600 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 15.9 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: 170 hp Rotax 1,630cc ACE-170 PUMP/IMPELLER: 155 mm high-pressure/stainless-steel GEAR RATIO: 1:1 FUEL LOAD: 13 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 155 lb. Sea-Doo’s makeover of the GTI platform for 2020 had two primary goals. One, give riders an all-new onboard experience; and, two, improve the performance, control and robustness of the craft. The GTI borrows heavily from the brand’s flagship GTX, adopting a similar low-slung profile and expanded rear deck. Like the GTX, the GTI saddle features a removable aft section. Remove it to lounge at rest or as a casting platform when fishing. That deck area also now comes standard with LinQ accessory mounts, recessed, composite cleats that raise to…

SPECS: LOA: 20'11" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 2'11" DRY WEIGHT: 2,685 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 14/1,900 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 45 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Suzuki 200 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Suzuki 16" x 21.5" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 2.50:1 FUEL LOAD: 34 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 340 lb. Starcraft’s SVX 211 OB couldn’t have a more passenger-friendly layout. Nearly the entire perimeter of this boat is filled with seating, with room for up to 14 passengers to hang out and have fun. There are twin 4-foot couches in the roomy, squared-off bow. Add a filler cushion and the pair quickly transforms into a wraparound, U-shaped bench that maximizes nearly every inch of the forward cockpit. Another 6 feet of space awaits down the portside couch before it doglegs into another 4 feet across…

SPECS: LOA: 23'8" BEAM: 8'4" DRAFT: 1'5" (drive up) DRY WEIGHT: 4,599 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 12/2,535 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 56 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 250XL FourStroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia ECO 16" x 18" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 22 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 500 lb. Stingray’s 231DC proved itself a solid value and an SUV of a runabout. It embodies a playful dual-console layout combining versatility, comfort, utility and performance with an appealing presentation. The patented Stingray Z-plane hull delivers a spirited performance with a stout Mercury 250XL V-8 outboard spinning an Enertia ECO 18-inch pitch wheel. Acceleration will satisfy just about any watersports enthusiast, planing in 3.3 seconds and gaining 30 mph from a dead stop in a cat-quick 5.2 seconds. Top speed hovered at…

SPECS: LOA: 27'0" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: 3'4" DRY WEIGHT: 6,200 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 101 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Ilmor 6.2-liter GDI-S OPS 380 One Drive DRIVE/PROPS: Ilmor Dual Prop/22.5" and 24" pitch C/R GEAR RATIO: 2.18:1 FUEL LOAD: 75 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. Formula boats usually delight owners, and this 270 BR should do likewise. As a beautiful lake toy, sandbar party boat, evening cruiser and restaurant hopper, having this boat at your dock tells others you’ve made it—and with good taste to boot. The new Ilmor One Drive engine/dual-prop drive package puts icing on this rich dessert. Spinning its contra-rotating props at 6,000 rpm, we flashed a steady 50.8 mph on our GPS and radar gun. While we bet that no one will…

SPECS: LOA: 32'5" BEAM: 10'7" DRY WEIGHT: 13,911 lb. DRAFT: 3'7" SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 220 gal. AVAILABLE POWER: Twin Mercury 350 Verado Does your ideal boat combine the comfort of a cruiser, the styling of a coupe and the versatility of a bowrider? Then you have to check out the latest addition to Sea Ray’s acclaimed Sundancer line, the 320 Coupe Outboard. With a full windshield enclosure—with opening side windows—the cabin off ers comfort and protection, while the hardtop features an opening canvas sunroof to let in more light and fresh air as you please. Slide the port windshield over to access the bow, and passengers are treated to a large sun pad with actuating headrests, armrests and seats. A stowable table is easily set up for…

SPECS: LOA: 38'3" BEAM: 8'3" DRAFT (MAX): 2'4" DRY WEIGHT: 9,500 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 250 gal. AVAILABLE POWER: Mercury Racing 565 or 860 inboards With the reintroduction of the 38ZRC, Donzi is bringing back a modern performance-boat classic. When we reviewed the last version of the boat in 2008, our intrepid boat tester wrote, “Donzi got it right with the latest incarnation of its 38ZRC.” Those words still hold true today. The first thing that stands out is the boat’s style. It is long and slender—with a narrow 8-foot, 3-inch beam—and sports a glossy gelcoat finish and eye-popping performance graphics. Donzi uses multi-axial laminates with 100 percent VE resins. When you lower the throttles. Donzi reports a top speed of over 120 mph with the staggered…

SPECS: LOA: 42'10" BEAM: 10'11" DRAFT (MAX): 3'0" DRY WEIGHT: 13,000 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 300 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Triple Mercury Racing 450R DRIVE/PROPS: Outboards/Rev 4 14.6" x 24" 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.6:1 FUEL LOAD: 180 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 600 lb. Neither Karl Keikhaffer nor Ole Evinrude could ever have dreamed their one- and two-cylinder outboard motors would have evolved to V-8 blocks generating up to 400 hp. And, in fact, only Karl’s did, followed by Yamaha’s new 425 V-8. These big-block outboards changed everything in performance boating and spurred the evolution of boats such as Mystic’s M4200 monohull speed boat. Built of fiberglass and Kevlar, and topped with a structurally integrated carbon-fiber reinforced hardtop, this enormous boat breaks 80 mph in lousy…

Tubing is a catch-all term. Whether you a tow your crew atop a six-seater sea serpent, a torpedo for two, or a bona fide single-person tube, tubing provides a ton of fun for all age groups. The skill level required for riders and boat skippers might be less than that required for wakesurfing, wakeboarding or water skiing, but attention to safety must be maintained. No article can cover all scenarios. However, these tips should serve as a primer to those boaters new to tubing and a refresher course for old hands at the helm. KEEP CLEAR Stay at least three towrope lengths away from shore, docks, navigation aids, moored boats, and any other obstructions and shallow water. If your crew wipes out, they can be hurt. THROTTLE BACK Keep your…

SPECS: LOA: 21'5" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: 2'3.5" BALLAST: 3,700 lb. DRY WEIGHT: 4,500 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 15/2,100 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 45 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: 350 hp Indmar Raptor DRIVE/PROP: V-drive/OJ 15.5" x 16.5" GEAR RATIO: 1.76:1 FUEL LOAD: 41 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 310 lb. Built in the same vein as its bigger sister, the Makai, the Kaiyen is designed to bring versatile watersports fun to a range of users at an affordable price. At 21 feet, 5 inches, the Kaiyen offers room for a crew of 15, while delivering solid wakes and waves thanks to 3,700 pounds of ballast and onboard systems such as Autowake and the optional Flow 3.0 Surf tabs. The smaller size of the Kaiyen has several big advantages, especially for those boaters who don’t…

SPECS: LOA: 22'4" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 2'10" DRY WEIGHT: 3,900 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 12/1,640 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 56 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Volvo Penta 300 EVC FWD DRIVE/PROP: Forward Drive/Volvo Penta K4 Propset GEAR RATIO: 2.32:1 FUEL LOAD: 14 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 365 lb. Regal’s LS2 proved to be a stylish bowrider with the company’s patented FasTrac hull design and an inviting transom layout. The LS2 Surf adds the builder’s popular Surf System to the mix, safely boosting the wakes for close-quarters wakesurfing. Volvo Penta’s Forward Drive, a key component, repositions its dual propellers to the front of the drive where they’re safely tucked below the hull. Side benefits include less exhaust and the ability to do something V-drives cannot—trim to both further shape the wave and make…

SPECS: LOA: 24'0" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: 3'0" DRY WEIGHT: 5,250 lb. BALLAST: 4,800 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 14/2,450 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 63 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: PCM 450 HO DRIVE/PROP: V-drive/4-blade 16:13 GEAR RATIO: 1.72:1 FUEL LOAD: 63 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 376 lb. The big sister of the Vi22, the Vi24 offers the signature wakes and waves Centurion has become known for in a sleeker, sportier package. While its length and full 8-foot, 6-inch beam still dwarf its waterski-boat ancestors, the Vi24 pays homage in its design. On the water, it’s a beautiful boat that evokes a tinge of nostalgia—while providing all the tech and comfort necessary for riding in the future. Like all of Centurion’s boats, the Vi24 is built upon the Opti-V hull, which features 20 degrees of…

SPECS: LOA: 21'4" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'0" DRY WEIGHT: 2,230 lb. (plus engine) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 11/1,318 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 30 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury FourStroke 150 DRIVE/PROP: Enertia 15" pitch 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.92:1 FUEL LOAD: 15 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 250 lb. Most prominent among the SS series of Lowe pontoons is the stainless-steel aft-railing system, which adds durability, good looks and a better view over the transom thanks to the open rails. That view will be particularly relished from the conversion-lounge seating arrangement at the transom that gives this boat its “CL” initials. Flip both seatbacks forward and forward-facing benches become aft-facing lounges. Flip just one and two can recline facing each other—a romantic touch for a sunset cruise. That view will be even…

SPECS: LOA: 22'10" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: 1'3" DRY WEIGHT: 2,061 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 11/1,500 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 38 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha F115 four-stroke 115 hp DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/13.5"x 12" Yamaha 3-blade aluminum GEAR RATIO: 2.15:1 FUEL LOAD: 28 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. SunChaser’s Geneva 22 LR PSB offers big-hull security and comfort, and when packaged with a midrange Yamaha F115 for power, brings the price within reach of many first-time pon-tooners who might want to dip their toes before going all-out on a V-6 package. For $50,000, it’s a sound investment. That price brings an acceleration of zero to 30 mph in 6 seconds—on par with many larger rigs; the Geneva’s most economical cruising speed is 16 mph, using 3.6 miles per gallon. The only area feeling…

SPECS: LOA: 25’3” BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'3" DRY WEIGHT: 3,238 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 14/1,974 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 50 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha 250 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series II 153/4” x 15” 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 50 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 390 lb. A limited-edition model in 2019, Bennington’s feature-packed 23 RX Sport Swingback enjoys fulltime status for 2020. In addition to the Swingback bench aft, the RX Sport comes with an impressive list of standard features. Aluminum-cladded rails ring the perimeter, with sweeping lines and stainless-steel and mesh accents aft. Deck trim, deck skirt and Bimini frame are stylishly blacked-out. Within, Bennington’s Sport interior adds a linen-like texture to vinyl seat coverings, with contrasting accents. Add the Bennington wing logo to the entry gates…

SPECS: LOA: 25'2" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'1" DRY WEIGHT: 3,194 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 13/1,700 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 34 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 200 PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 15.3" x 14" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.85:1 FUEL LOAD: 10 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 350 lb. Barletta’s C-Class marks the builder’s first foray into an entry-level category. This boat shares many of the construction details, fit and finish, and overall attention to detail we’ve noted aboard Barletta’s high-end offerings. Ibeam crossmembers are bolted to welded risers, with V.I.P. technology: polyurethane rubber isolation pads placed anywhere aluminum meets aluminum. Power Biminis come standard, rather than being a pricey add-on. Furniture proves plush and comfortable. And yes, there’s still a pull-out doggie dish. The C24 UC combines two bow couches (one is…

SPECS: LOA: 26'6.5" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: NA DRY WEIGHT: NA SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: NA FUEL CAPACITY: 58 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha F300 V-6 four-stroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series II 15.75" x 15" stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 44 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. Once in a while a boat changes the playing field. Take Bennington’s 24 R Bowrider Swingback. With a floor plan boasting a recessed bowrider design called the Step-Down U-Lounge, it makes the mark. It doesn’t feel like a typical pontoon, it feels more luxurious and safer. The pilot and copilot can easily see over the heads of crew seated forward. Better command, confidence and control results. The forward perimeter fences feature lowered profile rails with see-through upper sections. Seems simple, again, but it allows…

SPECS: LOA: 27'6" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'2" DRY WEIGHT: 3,793 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 14/1,940 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 48 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 400 Verado DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 14.7" x 16" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 18 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 385 lb. The L25UC is often referred to as the “boat that started Barletta.” As such, it’s a showcase for the builder’s best features. These include not only amenities topside but also VIP construction below, vibration-isolating polyurethane rubber pads placed anywhere aluminum meets aluminum to deaden vibration and quiet the ride. It works. The L25UC felt solid and free of creaks and groans no matter what conditions we encountered or how hard we ran it. Barletta retains a pontoon’s traditional exterior fencing, but minimizes and…

SPECS: LOA: 28'6" BEAM: 12'6" DRAFT: 1'6" DRY WEIGHT: 3,400 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 16/2,230 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 58 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 300 FourStroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 14" x 19" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 43 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. We reached 45-plus-mph top speeds while testing the 2585 Catalina Platinum EL-W and zipped from a dead stop to planing in just under 5 seconds—it took a shade over 8 seconds for us to hit 30 mph. It’s a cruiser too; even with the big powerplant, we recorded best economy at a sedate 13 mph, where the Mercury outboard sips 3.7 gph, for a net economy of 3.6 miles per gallon. But even at faster speeds it’s a fuel miser, netting better than 2…

Let’s start there. These are fenders, and they should only be used while the boat is moored or raft ed with others. It is unsafe to leave them hanging over the side when underway—and it marks an amateur boater. They could slap a boater’s face if a wave slings one back inboard. You won’t likely need a fender while solitarily on the hook—that’s at anchor, for those of you who might have called any of these a buoy. And then there’s the exception to the nomenclature rule for ball fenders. Polyform and TaylorMade call them ball buoys, but Google finds them when you call them ball fenders. They replace the glass-net floats that Japanese fishermen once used and that still sometimes wash up on beaches—those were called net buoys. Boat…

SPECS: LOA: 17'10" BEAM: 7'7" DRAFT (MAX): 2'9" DRY WEIGHT: 1,430 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 6/1,510 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 25 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 150 Pro XS DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/141/2" x 19" 3-blade aluminum GEAR RATIO: 2.08:1 FUEL LOAD: 20 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 360 lb. The demands of an angler on a multispecies boat are many. It must be spacious, weather tough and able to handle techniques ranging from trolling to casting to live-baiting. The Hudson 170 DLX WS supplies the answer for everything in a sporty and easily trailerable package that, when rigged with a Mercury 150 Pro XS, flies like a rocket ship. Our test boat climbed onto plane in a nimble 3.5 seconds and reached 30 mph in less than 7 seconds en route to a 52-mph…

SPECS: LOA: 20'4" BEAM: 8'0" DRAFT (MAX): 1'0" DRY WEIGHT: 1,550 lb.(without engine) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 5/825 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 28 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 150 Pro XS DRIVE/PROPS: Outboard/Mercury Revolution 19 GEAR RATIO: 2.08:1 FUEL LOAD: 25 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 370 lb. Ranger’s RB series proved itself popular among bass, crappie and coastal anglers—and now includes this larger new RB200. Our test boat was powered by a four-stroke Mercury 150 ProXS outboard, a speedy, agile combination enhanced by hydraulic steering and smooth, precise throttle control. The RB200 planed in 2.8 seconds, reached 30 mph in 6.4 seconds and missed 50 mph by just a fraction. The RB200’s stout foam-filled hull is solid and knocked downdouble-up wakes without knocking out dental work—something many aluminum boats can’t do. Ranger owners…

SPECS: LOA: 21'6" BEAM: 7'9" DRAFT (MAX): 1'2" DRY WEIGHT: 2,200 lb. (plus engine) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 6/1,125 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 56 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury Racing 400R DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Bravo 4 23" 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 25 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. Walleye anglers are tough as nails. They ply large, open waters in high winds with heavy seas—and half the time, they do it in temperatures that keep most anglers sitting by the fire—so Yar-Craft builds the 219 TFX to be tougher. Its high freeboard knocks down seas. Its sharp stem and deep-V bottom cleave waves other boats bash into and over. Its open cockpit provides the right combination of clear deck space and needed casting decks. Our test of the 219 was atypical…

SPECS: LOA: 24'6" BEAM: 8'10" DRAFT (MAX): 2'8" (engines down) DRY WEIGHT: 5,800 lb. (without engines) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 140 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin 150 hp Mercury FourStroke DRIVE/PROPS: Outboard/Mercury Rev 4 19" pitch 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.92:1 FUEL LOAD: 140 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 560 lb. Blackfin’s new dual-console series includes this 242 DC and a larger 272. We tested both and found them to live up to the standard of quality for which the Blackfin name is known. We noted that quality in hardware such as the heavy-duty polished stainless-steel hinges and latches. Powder-coating of the windshield frame and hardtop, and other components such as cleats and rub rail, are all made from polished stainless steel. We felt the durability in the…

SPECS: LOA: 27'2" BEAM: 9'4" DRAFT (MAX): 1'8" DRY WEIGHT: 6,500 lb. (with power) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 200 gal. AVAILABLE POWER: Twin Mercury V-6 FourStroke outboards to 450 hp total Utilizing the same proven hull as Belzona’s popular 27WA, the new Belzona 27CC features a simpler, angler-centric layout, while also incorporating the unique Jumper Door on the starboard side of the aft cockpit. The sliding side door has always been one of the most recognizable Belzona features, making it easy for crew to board, scuba and land big fish. The 27CC’s Jumper Door—standard equipment—offers the same benefits but uses articulating arms that allow you to lift and slide the door aft. The center-console interior, with starboard entry, features more than 5½ feet of headroom and can be…

SPECS: LOA: 30'3" BEAM: 9'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'8" DRY WEIGHT: 6,183 lb. (plus engines) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 237 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin Suzuki 350 APX DRIVE/PROPS: Outboard/15.5" x 24" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 2:1 FUEL LOAD: 200 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 500 lb. A portside boarding door in a 30-footer isn’t unheard of, but it’s unusual and just one of the many standard features Sea Chaser designed for its new 30 HFC Bluewater. In fact, the boat’s impressive list of standard features is even more so when coupled with the company’s reputation for value-priced vessels. For anglers, the boat is well-equipped with dual 30-gallon livewells, one in the leaning post and one on the transom. Rod holders in the gunwales abound, and some are the…

SPECS: LOA: 33'1" BEAM: 10'9" DRAFT (MAX): 2'0" DRY WEIGHT: 8,500 lb. (without engines) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 327 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin Yamaha F300 DRIVE/PROPS: SWS II 15.5" x 17" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 160 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. We think half the people who buy fishing boats just like the macho looks and the surrounding luxury of them. Grady-White gets that, but don’t ever think boats such as the Canyon 326 are not tournament-ready angling machines. Here’s how Grady-White made the 326 to satisfy everybody. The helm is wide, protected by an even wider hardtop, and that’s supported by a color-matched superstructure that hugs the helm tightly, opening walkways fore and aft for passage. Triple bucket seats with footrests,…

SPECS: LOA: 34'6" BEAM: 10'10" DRAFT (MAX): 2'0" (motors up) DRY WEIGHT: 11,750 lb. (without power) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 300 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin 300 hp Yamaha F300 DRIVE/PROPS: Outboard/Saltwater Series II 151/4 " x 18" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 300 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 630 lb. The Pursuit DC 326 features redesigned topside lines, an integrated hardtop, fiberglass-framed windshield, and curving side windows that create a profile reminiscent of a yacht. A standard starboard-side door eases boarding, diving, and dealing with big fish. Once on board, you’ll find two foldout bench-style seats—one across the transom and the other on the port side of the cockpit. Versatile seating on the port side of the bridge deck can be used as a lounger…

It’s a powerful outboard, the new Yamaha XTO Offshore ®, and it’s brought big change—to sport-fishers, center-console lovers and even to water taxis. Built from skeg to cowl to team-power yacht-class offshore boats, this 425 hp, 5.6L V-8 has won fans in single and twin applications on smaller craft with big offshore ideas too. WHAT’S NEW? Yamaha calls its newcomer an “integrated power system,” and backs the claim with many innovations and industry firsts. The XTO Offshore’s electric steering system eliminates cables and hydraulics. Internally housed electrical motors directly move the outboard, resulting in instant response, simpler rigging and fewer components. In the XTO Offshore—boating’s first direct-injection four-stroke—two fuel pumps spray atomized fuel directly into combustion chambers at up to 2,900 psi, maximizing combustion and efficiency. The XTO exhausts above…

SPECS: LOA: 18'11" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 2'2" DRY WEIGHT: 2,250 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 12/1,600 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 48 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha 115 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha 131/4" x 16" 3-blade aluminum GEAR RATIO: 2.15:1 FUEL LOAD: 39 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 340 lb. Starcraft’s SVX 191 OB takes aim at both the first-time boater and the budget family buyer with a familiar deck-boat layout, stable hull and a collection of options that allows users to outfit the boat to fit their lifestyles. That makes it equally at home pulling your favorite tow sport, bobbing in the waters of the latest fishing spot, or just kicking back and enjoying a friend-filled sunset cruise. The SVX cockpit layout puts passenger comfort—and space—front and center. Comfortably bolstered seating rings nearly every available…

SPECS: LOA: 22'11" BEAM: 8'4" DRAFT: 1'6" (drive up) DRY WEIGHT: 4,348 lb. SEATING/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 10/2,080 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 56 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Volvo Penta 300 V-8 DuoProp DRIVE/PROP: Sterndrive/FH-7 23" pitch 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 2.32:1 FUEL LOAD: 22 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 585 lb. Stingray’s 225SE serves as a 40th-anniversary special model that combines family flexibility with a sassy dose of sportboat performance and looks. It impressed our test team on a number of levels. Read on to learn more. Power comes from a 300 hp V-8 Volvo Penta DuoProp sterndrive. With this combination, the sleek 225SE accelerated to plane in just 3 seconds; 30 mph came up in a rushed 5 seconds flat. Top speed was nearly 59 mph at 5,650 rpm, with the bow…

SPECS: LOA: 24'4" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'6" (engine up) DRY WEIGHT: 4,250 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 14/3,100 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 60 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury V-8 FourStroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Rev 4 18" 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 20 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 250 lb. This deck boat was designed for either outboard power or sterndrive or Volvo Penta forward drive (GTD 245). We’ve been aboard too many sterndrives retooled for outboards that were just average performers. However, we tested each version—and all three operated as if they were born to run with their respective propulsion options. The Mercury V-8 300 hp four-stroke was powerful and smooth. Sure, it ought to be with power steering and electronic throttles, but that only accounts for the ease of maneuvering. It…

SPECS: LOA: 27'10" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 3'1" (drives down)" DRY WEIGHT: 6,100 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 11/2,230 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 75 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 6.2L 350 hp DRIVE/PROP: Sterndrive/B3 GEAR RATIO: 2.2:1 FUEL LOAD: 30 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 250 lb. Mercury’s 6.2-liter 350-horsepower sterndrive and Crownline’s 280 SS make an outstanding team. The deep-V hull coupled with Mercury power steering and digital throttle and shift make driving the 280 SS a dream. It accelerated quickly, reaching an exciting top speed in excess of 50 miles per hour with such smooth, confident control, your grandmother would be happy skippering it. days, Tampa Bay is a choppy mess with plenty of rec boats stirring it up, commercial ships making it worse, and relentless wind ensuring all that turbulence is…

SPECS: LOA: 33'10" BEAM: 10'10" DRAFT (MAX): 2'10" (engines down) DRY WEIGHT: 13,700 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 180 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury V-8 FourStroke 300 hp DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Eco XP 17.5 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.85:1 FUEL LOAD: 130 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 530 lb. Outboard power amplifies the liveaboard space offered by this 34-foot personal yacht. Instead of taking up valuable space with engines in the hull, mounting outboards on the transom returned the space to creature comforts—the Monterey 345 SY makes excellent use of it to provide comfort and convenience. The salon belowdecks is roomier than 38s we’ve been on. A large double berth forward isn’t cramped by equally roomy couches lining the starboard side and forward bulkhead against the berth. Capitalizing on the…

SPECS: LOA: 36'8" BEAM: 10'10" DRAFT: 2'5" (drives up) DRY WEIGHT: 15,500 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 214 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin 430 hp Ilmor 6.2L GDI-S One Drive DRIVE/PROP: Sterndrive/145/8" x 23" 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 2.18:1 FUEL LOAD: 148 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 600 lb. Few boats offer the luxury, innovation and air of exclusivity embodied in the Aviara AV36. The sleek angularity of the AV36’s lines captivate the eye. Step aboard the broad platform of the sterndrive version we tested—this boat also comes with outboard power—and the visual theme continues, as fittings, fixtures, cushions and even the design cut into the attractive surface covering the cockpit sole all echo this geometric theme. Look closer. Details include the expansive transom lounge. This hides stowage…

SPECS: LOA: 43'0" BEAM: 12'3" DRAFT (MAX): 3'3"(engines down) DRY WEIGHT: 15,800 lb. (with quad engines) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 500 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Quad Mercury 400R DRIVE/PROPS: Sportmaster Drives/Bravo 1 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 270 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 800 lb. Fountain’s new boats aren’t just as exciting as always—they are even more so today. That’s thanks to new high-performance outboards, better components and refined integration of electrical systems. The 43 NX is a perfect example of this. First, you’ve got the quad Mercury 400 Routboards pushing the boat to exciting top speeds. Couple that with the crisp ride of the hull and the efficiency of the double-stepped design, and you’ve got the performance and luxury on which Fountain was founded. In…

The watersports segment of recreational boating is unlike any other because the experience behind the boat matters just as much, and sometimes more, than the experience aboard it. Manufacturers continue to pour countless hours into research and design to create clean, rideable wakes and waves that aren’t just high-performing, but are easily adjusted to suit a variety of skill levels, as well. Of course, nothing beats a day of watersports fun with friends and family, and thanks to all that R&D and all the models on the market today, that fun is available to more boaters than ever before.…

SPECS: LOA: 22'0" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: 3'0" DRY WEIGHT: 5,150 lb. BALLAST: 4,600 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 12/2,100 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 63 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: PCM 409 DRIVE/PROP: V-Drive/2907 16:13 GEAR RATIO: 1.72:1 FUEL LOAD: 60 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 376 lb. With the introduction of its new Vi series, Centurion brings the clean, stylish lines of its water-ski past to its big-wake future. At first glance, the Vi22 stands out because of its lower gunwales and sportier stance on the water. Upon further inspection, you’ll find a capable wake- and wave-maker built upon Centurion’s successful Opti-V hull with 20 degrees of deadrise. Designed specifically to push more water at wakeboarding and wakesurfing speeds, the Opti-V hull shapes up sizable, symmetrical wakes and waves. Add in the 2,850 pounds of…

SPECS: LOA: 22'5" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: 2'4" DRY WEIGHT: 5,800 lb. BALLAST: 3,500 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 16/2,400 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 63 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: 575 hp Roushcharged Indmar Raptor DRIVE/PROP: V-drive/ACME 15" x 14.25" 4-blade GEAR RATIO: 1.5:1 FUEL LOAD: 47 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 360 lb. As the tow boat of the Supra Boats Pro Wakeboard Tour for the past five years, the SA already carries a distinct pedigree. With updates both below the water and above, the 22-footer stands out this year as one of the best all-around wakeboats in its class, not to mention one of the most versatile. Comfort and storage abound aboard the SA, thanks in large part to the subfloor ballast that holds up to 3,500 pounds of water. While most other brands…

SPECS: LOA: 28'0" BEAM: 9'2" DRAFT (MAX): 1'8" DRY WEIGHT: 5,750 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 98 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Dual Rotax 300 jets DRIVE/IMPELLER: Jet pumps/3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1:1 FUEL LOAD: 70 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 250 lb. Scarab hits a homer with its new 285. First, the Rotax propulsion gives this 28-footer an exciting top speed. Second, with the optional surf package, it will create a wake riders will enjoy; third, it’s styled in a crisp way that borrows from techy new automobiles. The techiest part is the touchscreen display oriented in a head-up position like an Audi Q7. One tap gives you the skier profile page, offering five presets for your favorite riders. Another gives you a visual image of fuel burn…

SPECS: LOA: 21'6" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: 2'7" DRY WEIGHT: 2,491 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 13/1,163 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 32 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha F150 four-stroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha Reliance 14.5" x 15" stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 2.00:1 FUEL LOAD: 35 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. The quintessential Bennington, the SX 22 Swingback comes well-equipped, performs nicely, proves comfortable and smooth, and sells for a competitive price. It also sports touches including new custom Kicker speakers with shallow design and plush Simtex pillow-top lounges with metallic carbon accents. Performance? With the Yamaha F150 outboard, it’s top speed approached 40 mph at 6,000 rpm. We saw 30 mph from a dead stop in 8.4 seconds, plenty quick and powerful enough for family watersports. This combo really sips at the fuel trough; best…

SPECS: LOA: 23'10" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: 1'8" DRY WEIGHT: 2,100 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 12/1,650 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 60 gal. HOW WE TESTED: Evinrude E-Tec G2 two-stroke 250 hp DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/15.25" x 17" BRP Evinrude Rebel 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.85:1 FUEL LOAD: 25 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. Sylvan rigged the L-3 DLZ to go, and, boy, did it! With the 250 hp Evinrude G2 for power, it leaped from a standing start to 30 mph in just 6 seconds. Top speed was nearly 45 mph at just under 6,000 rpm. It delivers an old-school feel, with that good throaty two-stroke growl. Sound levels, however, didn’t get elevated until after about 4,000 rpm; at most economical cruise speed (21 mph, 3,500 rpm, 3.2 mpg) we recorded just 72 decibels—quiet…

SPECS: LOA: 25'7" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: NA DRY WEIGHT: 2,715 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 13/1,813 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 50 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 300 hp FourStroke V-8 DRIVE/PROP: Enertia 16" pitch 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 20 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 200 lb. A 25-foot, 7-inch pontoon boat makes an enormous playground on the water for families and friends. The performance that comes from the added buoyancy of a third pontoon and the reduced drag from strakes that lift the tubes to the surface of the water optimize horsepower and increase the fun. At speed, the SS 250 WS presses you back against the lush living room of upholstery surrounding the crew. In turns, the power steering gives smooth control and Mercury’s dynamic throttle easily maintains torque…

SPECS: LOA: 26'6" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: 1'1" DRY WEIGHT: 3,560 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 13/1,837 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 34 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 250 FourStroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 14.7" x 16" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 16 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. This is Barletta’s sophomore year, but it is playing at varsity level. The builder’s offerings this year are fully equipped, and Barletta provides features, construction, performance and styling on par with the best in the industry. This E24QC with a Mercury 250 FourStroke provided strong performance, attention-grabbing good looks and many useful, well-engineered features. Performance-wise, the 26-inch diameter tubes with full-length lifting strakes and outside spray rails on the outer tubes worked with the Merc to provide acceleration from zero to 30 mph in…

SPECS: LOA: 27'3" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 2'9" DRY WEIGHT: 4,154 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 15/2,142 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 50 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha 350 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series XL 161/4" x 15" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.73:1 FUEL LOAD: 45 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 360 lb. In Bennington’s extensive array of floorplans, the letter Q designates luxury. While the 25 QX Fastback clearly fits the bill, the lasting impression is more like waterborne power. The molded fiberglass bow rakes sharply toward the water. Fiberglass-cladded rails are sharply faceted and devoid of traditional fencing. Spanning the twin consoles, a low-profile, steeply raked walk-through windshield is deeply tinted, adding an air of mystery. At the stern, side panels finish in a mix of bright stainless steel and wire mesh. Add…

SPECS: LOA: 27'11" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 2'8" DRY WEIGHT: 5,111 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 13/3,337 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 63 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Twin Mercury 400 Verado DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Revolution 4 145/8" x 21" 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 58 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 350 lb. Harris won a National Marine Manufacturers Association Innovation Award for its revolutionary Crowne design in 2013. That the same basic styling still looks as cutting edge today as it did seven years ago is a testament to this pontoon builder’s forward-thinking approach, key to which is the replacement of the traditional pontoon fence enclosures with sleek, curvy fiberglass. Four fiberglass modules occupy the four corners of the deck outline, the forward pair curving aggressively toward the water. Those fiberglass modules incorporate…

SPECS: LOA: 31'6" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'2" DRY WEIGHT: 3,500 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 15/3,000 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 100 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin Mercury Racing 450 hp V-8 supercharged DRIVE/PROPS: Bravo FS 24" 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.6:1 FUEL LOAD: 25 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. Thirty years ago, PlayCraft Boats founder Jim Dorris looked at the popularity of go-fast boats on Lake of the Ozarks and asked: Why can’t we retain the leisure and social atmosphere of a pontoon boat while building it to power comfortably and easily accelerate to 70 mph? That idea is perfectly accomplished in the PowerToon X-Treme 3000. Our recent test of the X-Treme 3000 on Lake of the Ozarks shatters old notions of pontoon boating before even firing the outboards. Designing…

If you’ve got fish on the brain, it might not matter to you what the weather is like outside or what’s happening at work or what the price of gasoline is that day. If the fish are biting, all that matters is that you have the right boat to get out there and catch them. Lucky for you, we’ve tested 25 of the finest new fishing boats available in 2020, so that you can make an informed decision on which one will best get you on the bite. Whether you’re looking to get skinny or go far off shore, chase after walleye or wahoo, there’s a boat in this lineup that is just right for you.…

SPECS: LOA: 18'4" BEAM: 7'8" DRAFT (MAX): 1'0" DRY WEIGHT: 1,300 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 4/660 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 24 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 115L Pro XS FourStroke DRIVE/PROPS: Outboard/Mercury 23P Tempest GEAR RATIO: 2.07:1 FUEL LOAD: 10 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 450 lb. The only thing that could improve the performance of the original RT188 is the pad and off set transom on the 2020 version. Together, these features deliver better handling, more stability and a faster top speed than traditional aluminum bass boats with modified V-bottom hulls. An all-new keel design also offers greater strength and rigidity too. The RT188P’s sporty look features Ranger’s custom graphics and a metallic urethane paint—you choose the combination from six options. The upholstery is not only designed to complement hull colors, its…

SPECS: LOA: 22'0" BEAM: 8' DRAFT (MAX): 1'0" DRY WEIGHT: 2,100 lb. (plus engine) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 5/875 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 60 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 450 R V-8 DRIVE/PROP: Bravo 4 20" 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.6:1 FUEL LOAD: 30 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. At full throttle, the wind roared in my ears and threatened to blow off my sunglasses, in spite of the snug neck strap. Would my hair pull out?! There might be faster bass boats, but we don’t know why you would want one. We do know high-performance handling is just part of what is appealing about the Bass Cat Jaguar. Getting that performance requires a sharp entry to clear the waves, an aerodynamic hull design to lift the boat, and excellent balance…

SPECS: LOA: 21'8" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 3'0" (motor down) DRY WEIGHT: 4,650 lb. (as tested) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 11/2,365 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 105 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 225 hp FourStroke Verado V-6 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Enertia 16P 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 30 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 250 lb. The Finseeker is neither low slung like South Miami center-consoles nor built high in the bow like mid-Atlantic boats. The unique lines are just right for secure fishing in coastal waters and looks great when cruising for fu Premium hardware, glistening gelcoat, the stainless-steel rub rail and stocky but sleek cleats are among the beauty marks. The swim platform is wide and protected by a second stainless-steel rub rail. Segmented coaming bolsters follow the lines and match interior features…

SPECS: LOA: 25'2" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'5" DRY WEIGHT: 3,650 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 12/1,733 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 75 gal. AVAILABLE POWER: Yamaha outboards to 350 hp If you’re a hardcore angler, but you also like to spend time onboard with the family enjoying watersports, cruising or just hanging out on the hook, the 251 Hybrid delivers exactly what its name implies: a multi-purpose boat for the family that wants to do it all. Where to start? How about with the aft casting platform that comes standard with comfy SeaDek flooring. The casting deck features built-in storage and a 40-quart cooler, accessible from the water when you’re taking a swim off the transom. Flip up the transom jump seat to create a cockpit conversation pit, or for a comfortable cruising…

SPECS: LOA: 28'0" BEAM: 9'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'10" DRY WEIGHT: 6,500 lb. (without engines) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 214 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin Yamaha F300 DRIVE/PROPS: Outboard/SWS II 151/4" x 18" GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 100 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 450 lb. Dual consoles might be the fastest-growing category of outboard fishing boats. Grady-White certainly focuses plenty of effort on expanding its Freedom series, adding new models and updating existing models. The refreshed 285 brings new features developed in its larger models, giving it a surprisingly grand big-boat feeling in a 29-footer. Grady offers one electric sliding lounge on the starboard side behind the helm seat and one on the port side as well. When it’s time to fish, they slide up into aft-facing seats in…

SPECS: LOA: 32'3" BEAM: 10'8" DRAFT: 2'2" (hull) DRY WEIGHT: 10,500 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 14/4,300 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 300 gal. AVAILABLE POWER: Twin outboard engines to 800 hp total Boston Whaler touts its line of Conquest cabin boats as “rugged, luxurious and ready for anything.” The 2020 model year 325 Conquest looks to possess the attributes we’ve admired aboard the previous models, while boasting some new highlights. For example, this boat runs on an updated hull design, one better optimized to wring performance from today’s high-tech outboard motors. This redesigned hull delivers improved planing and greater stability, a combination that should allow your fuel bills to go down while your crew’s comfort increases. With optional twin 350 Mercury Verado outboards, the 325 Conquest hits nearly 50 mph while delivering efficient…

SPECS: LOA: 33'6" BEAM: 11'11" DRAFT: 2'81/4" (drives up) DRY WEIGHT: 13,000 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 300 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin 425 hp Yamaha XTO DRIVE/PROPS: Outboard/165/8" x 19" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.79:1 FUEL LOAD: 148 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 600 lb. The new Everglades 340DC possesses the superior off shore capabilities for which all Everglades models garner praise. Additionally, it provides outstanding amenities and comfort. What specific highlights await? The 340DC’s hardtop integrates with the windshield, providing structural integrity and awesome weather protection. It looks great from without—as the photo above attests—and the view from the helm proved excellent. Grab rails installed on its underside proved a nice touch that many builders neglect. The windshield’s center pane closes electrically to seal the deal:…

SPECS: LOA: 35'10" BEAM: 11'7.5" DRAFT (MAX): 1'8" DRY WEIGHT: 10,350 lb. (without power) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 500 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Quad 300 hp Mercury Verado V-8 DRIVE/PROPS: Outboard/Revolution 4 145/8" x 21" 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 200 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 1,050 lb. The 35 Catamaran is the third multihull model to emerge from Invincible Boats in as many years, making it clear that this boatbuilder is fully committed to cats. Engineered by design firm Morrelli & Melvin, the 35 Cat hull knifes smoothly through rough seas. Morrelli & Melvin’s patent-pending hybrid semi-asymmetrical multihull, which is exclusive to Invincible, allows the boat to corner with an inward lean. Powered by four Mercury Verado 300 hp V-8 outboards, the 35 Cat reached…

(Answers are below) 1. What is the common color code for simple trailer wiring in the U.S.? A. Red for positive, black for negative. B. Green for left turn/brake, yellow for right turn/brake, brown for clearance lights, white for ground. C. Black with yellow stripe for ground, red for left turn, green for right turn. D. None of the above 2. Which of the following are differences between a factory-installed (OEM) hitch versus an aftermarket (AM) hitch? (Choose all that apply.) A. Factory hitches are customde-signed for the vehicle at the same time the vehicle is designed—they are better matched together than an aftermarket hitch. B. Aftermarket hitches are rated for higher loads than factory hitches. C. Factory hitches are usually hidden better behind the bumper. D. When buying an…

It is highly likely that the first boat you ever stepped aboard was a runabout. It’s the classic American powerboat style, dating back to the early days of Chris-Craft and Gar Wood. But my, how the modern runabout has evolved. From blazing fast performance speedsters to stylish and amenity-laden center-consoles, the term encompasses a large swath of the water. Which type is destined to be your family’s modern-day memory maker? We tested 21 runabouts ranging from 17 to 45 feet, powered by sterndrives or outboards or even jets. Find your ride here.…

SPECS: LOA: 19'5" BEAM: 8'2" DRAFT (MAX): 1'3" DRY WEIGHT: 2,509 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 8/1,600 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 40 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha SVHO Super Charged DRIVE/IMPELLER: Water jet pump/3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1:1 FUEL LOAD: 25 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 450 lb. Yamaha packs a big punch in the 195S bowrider, and it doesn’t just come from the added horsepower of its SVHO supercharged engine. It caters to watersports with the wakeboard tower and accommodates large families thanks to its well-engineered deck plan. The engine pushed the boat to a speed just a tick short of 50 miles per hour in our tests and got up on plane in about 3 seconds. That kind of hole shot is exactly what watersports enthusiasts demand. Cruise-assist helps maintain speed,…

SPECS: LOA: 23'6" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 2'4" DRY WEIGHT: 3,400 lb. (with power) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 13/1,650 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 56 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha 200 hp DRIVE/PROP: Reliance 17 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.86:1 FUEL LOAD: 28 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 370 lb. Chaparral’s new SSi 23 OB steps up the heat in the race to capture new boaters, and it’s offered in both outboard and sterndrive versions. Outboards open the cockpit for spacious wraparound seating; thanks to this Chaparral design, it still offers a convenient swim platform ideal for slipping your feet onto a ’board or flopping into a tube. Tow points for tubes are on the transom, but the electric wakeboard tower is ideal for skiers and wake riders. Our tester was equipped with optional…

SPECS: LOA: 26'4" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): NA DRY WEIGHT: 5,100 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 92 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha 300 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series 151/2" x 17" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 60 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 365 lb. Regal expands its outboard offerings with the LX6, based on the brand’s popular LS6 bowrider. Though similar in layout, the LX6 actually gains 14 inches in cockpit length. It allows for a twist on the position of Regal’s UltraLounge, twin, double-wide aft seats and transom-facing rumble seats that flank the central walk-through. In standard position, the platform these seats are mounted atop takes advantage of that additional 14 inches to maximize cockpit space. Forward-facing passengers can keep their feet on the The forward…

SPECS: LOA: 29'3" BEAM: 9'10" DRAFT: 2'0" (hull/outboards up) DRY WEIGHT: 7,275 lb. (approx.) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 158 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin 250 hp Yamaha V-6 4.2-liter DRIVE/PROPS: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater 153/4" x 15" Series II stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 100 gal. WATER ON BOARD: 10 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 1,300 lb. You’d expect voluptuous lines from a French boat, right? While attractive, the Jeanneau NC 895 Sport borrows from the ultimate functionality of a commercial fishing boat and takes an upright stance with a square pilothouse, the top of which rakes slightly forward. And that’s great because, in addition to looking salty, this geometry helps deliver one of the most unique layouts in boats under 40 feet (length overall). For example, that big…

SPECS: LOA: 38' BEAM: 12'6" DRAFT (MAX): 44'3" DRY WEIGHT: 23,916 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 335 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin 300 hp Mercury Verado DRIVE/PROPS: Outboard/16" x 18" 4-blade GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 200 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 850 lb. The new Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS takes all the ingredients you really, really want—bowrider, outboard, luxury overnighter—and blends them into a delightful concoction. Upon first boarding and walking through the 38 GLS, most first-time boat shoppers will take away several high points, such as the foldout “beach door” that turns a big chunk of the starboard coaming into a water-level replacement for the transom platform you lose with outboards. It’s an elegant solution for allowing the corrosion resistance and other benefits of outboard power, while…

SPECS: LOA: 40'0" BEAM: 11'1" DRAFT (MAX): 2'6" DRY WEIGHT (APPROX.): 18,500 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 483 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Triple Yamaha F300 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha SWS II 15" x 21" stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.73:1 FUEL LOAD: 200 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 450 lb. The 407 Panacea from Intrepid Powerboats offers a multitude of great features, but we kept returning to the helm, wanting to grab the throttles and put the hammers down. And when we did, oh my! With three 300 hp Yamaha outboards on the transom propelling us across the water, we were at warp speed—60-plus mph—in a moment. This boat defies the old adage and serves well in a number of missions with little compromise. Whatever you want to do—fish, dive, overnight, lounge…

SPECS: LOA: 43'6" BEAM: 13'0" DRAFT (MAX): 3'7" DRY WEIGHT: 21,800 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 400 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Triple 425 hp Yamaha XTO DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/163/4" x 19" 3-blade XTO stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.79:1 FUEL LOAD: 350 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 660 lb. While the trend of equipping large center-consoles with a bowrider-esque layout isn’t new, I have yet to see anyone else pull it off with the style and substance found aboard the Tiara 43 LS. The execution raises the bar for boats of this type. The flagship of Tiara Sport’s lineup, the new 43 LS is equipped to entertain abovedecks for daytime fun afloat while pulling off overnight duty with luxury, style, comfort and little compromise. And because—like all Tiara Sport boat models—the…

SPECS: LOA: 20’0” BEAM: 8’2” DRAFT (MAX): 2’3” DRY WEIGHT: 3,500 lb. BALLAST: 3,810 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 11/1,551 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 42 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Malibu Monsoon M5Di DRIVE/PROPS: V-Drive/OJ 950 15” x 13” 4-blade nibral GEAR RATIO: 1.5:1 FUEL LOAD: 42 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 360 lb. Axis Wake Research boats, built by premier towboat builder Malibu, aims to deliver similar quality and technology to the parent line of boats at a more affordable price. In addition to being the lowest-priced boat in the Axis lineup, the all-new A20 proves small enough to easily tow and store on its trailer in many residential garages. During our test, we noted that, for a 20-foot boat, it also produces a surprisingly solid wake. Add more crew for more ballast—and more…

SPECS: LOA: 22'0" BEAM: 8'3" DRAFT: 2'4" DRY WEIGHT: 4,300 lb. BALLAST: 2,150 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 14/2,312 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 50 gal. AVAILABLE POWER: Ilmor 6.0L MPI VD Several years ago, MasterCraft added the NXT series to its line as a way to deliver the performance the boatbuilder’s reputation is built on at a more budget-conscious price. For 2020, the NXT22 has been completely redesigned from the bottom up to offer both better performance and more features. The lines of the NXT are MasterCraft through and through, as it carries design cues from both the XT and X series boats, including the pickle-fork-shaped bow. Anodized elements at the base of the tower are carried through to the dash, completing the sporty look of the 22-footer. At the helm, the captain…

SPECS: LOA: 23'0" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 2'8" DRY WEIGHT: 5,400 lb. BALLAST: 4,670 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 16/2,256 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 58 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Malibu Monsoon M5 Di DRIVE/PROPS: V-Drive/Acme 3077 17" x 15" 4-blade Nibral GEAR RATIO: 2.0:1 FUEL LOAD: 45 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 360 lb. Malibu’s 23 LSV has long been the company’s most popular boat model. The new, 2020 model-year 23 MXZ adds another alternative at this size range but with the added benefits of a pickle-fork bow and a host of new, innovative performance and luxury features. The MXZ suffix translates to maximized, a nod to the 23 not only maximizing performance but also passenger comfort and space. Start with the space created by that pickle-fork bow. Malibu uses it to turn the…

You can still buy a pontoon boat with quality construction, basic amenities and moderate power. Such boats are perfect for quiet, all-purpose cruising. Of course, many pontoons now come with multiple, high-horsepower engines, seating and amenities that imitate those aboard luxurious cruisers, and sport more bling than a pop star at the Grammys. You can enjoy slow, quiet cruises with those big, fast pontoons. You don’t have to put the throttle down hard. It’s just fun to be able to do so from time to time. See what the latest pontoon boats have to offer.…

SPECS: LOA: 21'6" BEAM: 8'5" DRAFT (MAX): 6" DRY WEIGHT: 1,747 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 10/1,969 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 29 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 115 Pro XS DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/14 x 17 4-blade aluminum GEAR RATIO: 2.08:1 FUEL LOAD: 20 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 360 lb. The 21-foot version of Princecraft’s venerable Vectra line of pontoons has some notable new features for 2020; first and foremost is the Rear Lounge. Responsible for the “RL” designation in the model name, the rear lounge sports an easily adjustable backrest so you can face forward and join the conversation or face aft and watch the wake. The optional stainless-steel safety railing allows passengers to utilize the lounge while under way, and it features not one but two flip-down sections for easy access. It’s a…

SPECS: LOA: 24'8" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: 1'8" DRY WEIGHT: 2,471 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 14/2,590 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 60 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha F250 four-stroke 250 hp DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series 15.75" x 13" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 45 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. With the do-everything CX 25 DL Bar, Starcraft takes a novel approach to pontoon boats, developing a convertible bar-turned-lounge arrangement on the aft deck of this new single-engine 25-footer—and boy does it turn heads. Raft up to the fleet at the cove or island, lower the bar, then recline and tan yourself awhile. When the sun drops below the yardarm (a phrase denoting cocktail hour aboard boats the world over), convert the arrangement into the entertainment bar and watch as crowds…

SPECS: LOA: 26'4" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'2" DRY WEIGHT: 3,885 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 14/1,935 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 43 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Evinrude G2 300 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Evinrude Rebel 151/2" x 16" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.85:1 FUEL LOAD: 43 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 360 lb. Like nearly all Manitous we’ve tested over the years, the 25 Legacy SL featured an ultra-smooth ride and a sporty, inside lean through the corners that’s more akin to a traditional V-hull. Chalk it up to the builder’s patented V-Toon technology. Twin 25-inch pontoons flank a central 27-inch pontoon, dropped lower than the outer tubes. Taking into account the central tube’s added girth, the effect is to lower the bottom of the center pontoon a full 51?4 inches and mimic a V-hull’s shape.…

SPECS: LOA: 26'6" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: 1'3" DRY WEIGHT: 4,600 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 14/1,950 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 58 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 300 Verado DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 14" x 19" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 29 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 350 lb. The Grand Tahoe series is Tahoe’s flagship offering, emphasizing luxury above deck and performance below. The former becomes apparent the minute you see it. Rather than exposed fencing, the exterior is cutting-edge sleek, with smooth, painted aluminum panels teeming with sculpted fiberglass merging the looks of traditional pontoons and fiberglass cruisers. A stainless-capped, wraparound, TaylorMade walk-through windshield sits atop the consoles. Aft, twin stowage trunks reside in the stylish fiberglass modules that define the stern. Aboard our test boat, a sweeping overhead powered arch…

SPECS: LOA: 27'5" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'0" DRY WEIGHT: 2,950 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 15/3,000 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 30 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury Racing 450 hp supercharged DRIVE/PROPS: Bravo 20 FS 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.6:1 FUEL LOAD: 25 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 250 lb. With a top speed of nearly 65 miles per hour, you couldn’t ask for much more performance from a single-engine pontoon. PlayCraft’s PowerToon X-Treme 2700 makes this speed with triple powder-coated tubes with a Mercury Racing 450 hp outboard bolted to the center one. The motor’s styling perfectly complements PlayCraft’s well-practiced designers’ and upholsterers’ work to make the X-Treme look extremely fast just sitting at the dock. The center tube is longer than the outboard tubes, giving the boat a rakish bow. The…

SPECS: LOA: 27'11" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT: 1'10" DRY WEIGHT: 3,770 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 15/2,969 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 63 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 350 hp Verado FourStroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia Eco 16" x 17" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 42 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. Harris rarely fails to please, and 2020 reveals more innovation. This Solstice 250 SLEC gives an aggressive performance with a Mercury 350 Verado FourStroke outboard, topping 51 mph at 6,000 rpm. Acceleration is brisk, hitting 30 mph from a dead stop in 7.3 seconds. For best mileage, optimum rpm is 2,500, where we recorded 14.7 mph and 3.7 miles per gallon. (Though we might term 20 mph “cruising speed” as mileage is still stellar.) That’s thrifty performance from a large high-performance…

Whether you boat year-round or have just launched your boat for the first time this season, you’ll want to have a toolbox on hand for any of the technical glitches or maintenance hiccups that pop up. A comprehensive toolbox such as West Marine’s Shipyard Tool Kit covers most bases, including essentials such as pliers, a full ratchet set, spark-plug socket, crimpers and cutters, screwdrivers, and electrical terminals, among others. Just make sure you supplement it with other essential tools listed below, and keep them all handy on your boat for any minor or major fixes that arise. —Pete McDonald WIRE CRIMPERS Quality wire crimpers are a necessity for stripping wire insulation and for crimping the exposed wire during any electrical repair on board. While a toolkit like the Shipyard set…

SPECS: LOA: 16’4" BEAM: 7’0" DRAFT (MAX): 1’0" (with engine up) DRY WEIGHT: 1,700 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 5/1,500 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 12 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Yamaha 90 hp four-stroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/131/8" x 17" 3-blade aluminum GEAR RATIO: 2.15:1 FUEL LOAD: 5 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 250 lb. This is the biggest little boat we’ve tested this year, and we thought it brought a great deal more fun to the water than we had thought available at such a value price. The 162 Fisherman would make an ideal entry boat for newbies or a cool tender for yachtsmen. Its hull and deck are foam filled and watertight, meaning there is no bilge to collect water that requires pumping out: Any water that comes aboard drains out the scuppered deck. To…

SPECS: LOA: 19'5" BEAM: 8'2" DRAFT (MAX): 1'4" DRY WEIGHT: 2,615 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 8/1,650 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 40 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Single 1.8-liter, Super Vortex High Output DRIVE/IMPELLER: Water jet pump/3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1:1 FUEL LOAD: 25 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 450 lb. When Yamaha introduced its 190 FSH two years ago, some crazy editor wanted more speed—so they upgraded to the Super Vortex High Output supercharged engine, added some other important refinements and called the new fish boat the 195 FSH. Our test model was an 195 FSH Sport, which added a T-top and four additional rod holders on top. This boat has more than just added horsepower. The handling is fantastic, thanks to the inline thrust of the jet-pump system. At wide-open throttle it…

SPECS: LOA: 21'6" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'3.75" DRY WEIGHT: 2,776 lb. (without power) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 9/1,500 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 82 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: 150 hp Yamaha F150 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Reliance 141/4" x 17" stainless-steel 3-blade GEAR RATIO: 2.00:1 FUEL LOAD: 50 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. With a frameless wraparound acrylic windshield and style lines that instantly identify it as a Scout, the new 215 Dorado will turn heads anywhere this smooth-riding dual-console model carries you. Plus, a host of angling features make this an effective fishing machine, as well. Whether fishing or cruising, you’ll stay comfy. The bow offers twin lounges and serves as a gathering place that envelopes crew in posh two-tone wraparound seating. Set up the optional oval, teak table ($1,045) for drinks and snacks.…

SPECS: LOA: 21'10" BEAM: 8'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'4" DRY WEIGHT: 2,450 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: 7/2,300 lb. FUEL CAPACITY: 56 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Mercury 400XL Verado DRIVE/PROP: Bravo 22 GEAR RATIO: 5.44:1 FUEL LOAD: 45 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 380 lb. The 621cFS PRO might be the most technologically advanced freshwater fishing boat we’ve tested. Designed for walleye anglers, it is loaded with innovative technology such as Ranger’s RIDE (Ranger Intelligent Display Engine), a 9-inch, touchscreen switching system for controlling and monitoring all the functions of the boat. The upholstered helm console is redesigned with a luxury-car look and accommodates a 16-inch sonar/chart plotter along with the RIDE display. The all-new FS PRO Series hull delivers optimal performance when it steps up on pad, and it has the solid construction…

SPECS: LOA: 26'9" BEAM: 9'3" DRAFT: 1'2" (engine up) DRY WEIGHT: 5,900 lb. (with engine) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 107 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINE: Single 300 hp Yamaha four-stroke DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/15.5" x 17" Yamaha Saltwater Series II 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.86:1 FUEL LOAD: 40 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 600 lb. Unlike its off shore sisters, Regulator Marine’s new 26XO reigns plying estuaries and near-coastal waters. In sharp, choppy bay waters our test boat ran dry without pounding at 25 to 32 mph with six people aboard. Design strength and Regulator’s rock-solid construction make it safe and stable for a family, at rest and underway. This is a long-legged boat for fishing and exploring, with a range over 200 miles. Yamaha’s F300 offers efficient operation in big…

SPECS: LOA: 28'0" BEAM: 9'1" DRAFT (MAX): 3'0" DRY WEIGHT: 6,125 lb. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 182 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin 250 hp Honda BF250 DRIVE/PROPS: Outboard/151/2" x 17" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 2.00:1 FUEL LOAD: 100 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 580 lb. The NorthCoast 280CC is a center-console made by fishermen for fishermen, and it shows—in that every aspect of the boat helps you catch more fish. In short, the NorthCoast 280CC proves itself a coastal angler’s dream. Start with the ride, because you can’t catch the fish if you can’t get to them. The 280CC’s deep-V hull tapers to 24 degrees of deadrise at the transom, helping it achieve an excellent ride while knifing through waves. On test day, we ran it through a…

SPECS: LOA: 32'9" BEAM: 9'6" DRAFT: 1'8" DRY WEIGHT: 6,900 lb. (without engines) FUEL CAPACITY: 312 gal. SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified. AVAILABLE POWER: 1,000 hp (max) SeaVee adds to its acclaimed Z-hull line with the all-new 322Z, a center-console that caters to the avid fisherman while still accommodating the entire family. The twin-stepped hull, with 22 degrees of deadrise, is built using vacuum-assisted resin-transfer molding—VARTM, for short—which infuses the cored hull, stringers and bulkhead simultaneously. If the 322Z performs as well as previous Z-iteration hulls, it will assuredly provide a smooth, high-performance ride that gets on plane easily and runs great. Many of the performance enhancements come courtesy of SeaVee’s augmented air ports, an induction system in the step hull, which utilizes an air reserve that produces and maintains the…

SPECS: LOA: 34'4" BEAM: 11'2" DRAFT: 2'0" (hull) DRY WEIGHT: 10,560 lb. (rigged, with engines) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 320 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin Yamaha 425 XTO DRIVE/PROPS: XTO Offshore 163/8" x 21" stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.79:1 FUEL LOAD: 125 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 640 lb. I fell in like with the new Cobia 350CC the moment I stepped through the inward-opening side door that makes pulling in a fish (or a fully rigged diver) as easy as stepping off a dock. This wasn’t crazy-mad irrational lust like I have for Sophia Loren, but a genuine like for all the right stuff that I discovered during my test of this new Cobia. This is a great center-console that fishes hard and plays even harder. First, the…

SPECS: LOA: 38'0" BEAM: 10'6" DRAFT (MAX): 1'10" DRY WEIGHT: 12,000 lb. (with power) SEAT/WEIGHT CAPACITY: Yacht Certified FUEL CAPACITY: 323 gal. HOW WE TESTED: ENGINES: Twin 425 hp Yamaha 425XTO DRIVE/PROPS: Outboard/Yamaha XTO OS 165/8" x 20" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 2.037:1 FUEL LOAD: 125 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 1,000 lb. Designed by company co-founder and CEO Stephen Dougherty, the new Solace 345 reflects a host of innovations, starting with a patented Fish-Thru transom that extends aft between twin outboards. Riding above the waterline, the 52-inch-long platform leads to a beefy transom door. From below, a hydraulic swim platform with a boarding ladder extends farther astern. Twin pressurized 45-gallon livewells flank the entrance to the platform, and each features an adjacent tuna tube. An elevated second station with two…