52 USING INTERCEPTORS P.
90
TO
54 HELM SEATS
62 VHF HANDHELDS
BUY BOATS IN A BULL MARKET
3
P.
56
WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
LIVE IMAGING 102 SONAR NOW!
P.
SEA RAY 370 SUNDANCER OB CERTAIN MAGIC
P.
88
MERCURY RACING 300R
C
CERTIFIED BOAT TESTS
SEA RAY 370 SUNDANCER OB BENETEAU FLYER 9 SUNDECK / SCOUT 277 LXF COBALT R8 OUTBOARD / HEYDAY H22 SEAVEE 450Z / CHECKMATE PULSARE 2400 CD
OCTOBER 2021
VOLUME 94 NUMBER 7
THE GRAN TURISMO OF THE SEAS
/ HÖGA KUSTEN, SWEDEN 63°1’21.0396″N 18°39′16.308″E
Axopar
Axopar
AxoparBoats
GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR ADVENTURE The innovative Axopar 37 XC Cross Cabin challenges convention in both looks and onboard functionality, bringing a new era to all-weather boating. It combines the functionality, ease of movement, convenience of social outdoor and indoor spaces, and versatility of outboard walk-around centre-consoles with a spacious, fully enclosed weatherproofed cabin. Status as the best value for money on the market, combined with exceptional fuel efficiency, outstanding drivability and performance make it the smart, value-conscious choice. Let the Adventure Begin! Learn more at axopar.fi or scan the QR code for information about us and our products.
FOR DETAILS ON THE LIMITED WARRANTY, SEE SUNBRELLA.COM/WARRANTY. SUNBRELLA® AND HORIZON ® ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF GLEN RAVEN, INC.
RESISTS MICROBIAL PINKING
ULTRA-SOFT & COMFORTABLE
RESISTS COLD-CRACKING
WEATHER, MOLD & MILDEW RESISTANT
Lasting comfort from every angle. Discover Sunbrella Horizon ®
EASY-TO-CLEAN & BLEACH CLEANABLE
4-WAY STRETCH & RECOVERY
®
UV & FADE RESISTANT
MOST COMPREHENSIVE WARRANTY
Learn More
I LEARNED ABOUT BOATING FROM THIS… P.38
10.21 BOATINGMAG.COM OCTOBER 2021
+ Don’t forget to take in those dock lines after launching
C
MOTORHEAD P.88
+ The hot, new Mercury Racing 300R outboard
CERTIFIED
TESTS P.66 SEAVEE 4 50 Z
Whether you’re looking to cruise or be first to the fish, this mega-center-console totally delivers.
370 S UNDAN CER O B
This iconic cruiser now sports a bow deck and outboards on the transom.
P.74 COBALT R8 OU TBOARD
Cobalt redesigned its
FEATURES
+ Humminbird Mega Live Imaging displays in real time
CO L U MN S
BUYING IN A BOOM MARKET
CRUISE CONTROL
P.24 EDITORIAL
What’s the best way to approach buying a boat in a seller’s market? Read about it here.
There’s a lot that can be learned from spending the day with a professional yacht captain.
P.40 SEAMANSHIP
BY JIM HENDRICKS
BY TONYA RUSSELL
P.106 OFF MY DOCK
P.42 WATERSPORTS
P.90
ically to excel with outboard power.
P.78 HEYDAY H22
With Heyday’s flagship, the next generation of affordable sportboats is here.
P.82 BENETEAU FLYE R 9 SUNDE CK
P.84 SCOUT 277 L XF
P.86 CHECKMATE P ULSA RE 2400 CD
+ Gear Head + 5 Things
8 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
P.56 Boat Doc Special P.62 BoatingLAB
ON THE COVER The Sea Ray 370 Sundancer OB gives you just about everything that you’d need to spend a day or night on the water in style and comfort. Photo by Garrett Cortese
PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) JOHN LINN, COURTESY MERCURY MARINE, COURTESY HUMMINBIRD, COURTESY WEST MARINE, COURTESY RELIEFBAND
P.70 SEA RAY
P.96
ELECTRONICS P.102
The ever-popular Formula 270 Bowrider is specially made to bring family and friends together! Live it now as you experience the bowrider leader in big-water performance, versatility and fun! The 270 cockpit puts good times first, with plenty of room for your growing family and expanding circle of friends. Convertible seating is the key – both helm and passenger backrests easily flip forward and aft, so watersport lookouts and easy conversations in the round are a breeze. Modular bow seating with armrests and removeable seat bottoms make space for your needs. And, versatile table arrangements serve you throughout the day, making lasting memories for all. Storage is abundant, with designated areas for table, cushions and fenders plus plenty of room to stow all your gear. The aft facing sun lounge with dualposition backrest cleverly converts for your seating and lounging needs, adding ease and fun to all your on-water adventures.
The helm commands attention, with handsome angles that brilliantly showcase the perfect union of flawlessly molded fiberglass and richly padded, double-needle stitched vinyl. The portside dash is a virtual entertainment center, sporting an integrated glovebox complete with a Clarion® AM/FM stereo, iPod/USB port, bluetooth and 12 volt outlet. Five dual USB ports throughout keep you charged and ready to connect. The 270 Bowrider is built to perfection, making days on the water fun and stress free. From the convertible bow seating to the extended integrated swim platform, the 270 delivers the perfect Formula experience. Bring family and friends together for a day of fun – in the Formula 270 Bowrider!
THE FORMULA 270 BOWRIDER – LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE NOW!
2200 West Monroe St. • PO Box 1003 Decatur, IN 46733 • 800.736.7685
www.formulaboats.com
3z
®
A Stunning All-Weather Day Yacht Open air never felt so good, or so safe. The day starts with perfect weather for the run to a new beach, sand bar, or island. Epic family times ensue. The horizon darkens and the other boats pack up and leave early. We’ve all been there, but your 3z enables another hour or two of paradise to yourselves. The open air layout transforms to a weatherproof, dry, air-conditioned pilothouse. Everyone is happy. You made a better choice. Find out how to place yourself in the center of three zones of luxury aboard an MJM 3z. info@mjmyachts.com
SCAN FOR FULL DETAILS
3z
35z 43z 43zi 53z 53zi
Uniquely Grady-White. gradywhite.com
The largest outboard powered Tiara Yacht ever built; the 48 LS builds on the legacy of the LS series. Luxury is amplified from bow to stern through unexpected details and refined yacht aesthetics. In partnership with Mercury, the 48 LS boasts the all-new Verado® V12 600hp engines. With the unwavering strength of a V12 powerhead, sophisticated sound-dampening technology and innovative advancements in steering and control, the 600hp Verado® engine delivers the ultimate outboard-driving experience.
LUXURY AMPLIFIED. TIARAYACHTS.COM
TRADITION I N T R O D U C I N G T H E A L L- N E W H - S E R I E S F R O M F O U R W I N N S
We are thrilled to launch Four Winns into a new era of design with a completely revamped bowrider lineup. The H-Series represents a whole new chapter in the Four Winns story. Welcome to the next horizon.
WWW.FOURWINNS.COM/NEX THORIZON
MEETS INNOVATION
THE FINER SIDE OF LIFE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EXECUTIVE EDITOR
All New Exclusive
GREAT LOOP SPECIALISTS
ELECTRONICS AND WEST COAST EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR ART DIRECTOR STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER SENIOR COPY EDITOR EDITOR-AT-LARGE, FISHING AND MARINE GROUPS
CANCELLED? NON-RENEWED? SKYROCKETING RATES?
WE CAN HELP. CALL TODAY!
CONTRIBUTORS
ILLUSTRATORS PRODUCTION DIRECTOR PRODUCTION MANAGER
/ ARTIST
Kevin Falvey Pete McDonald Jim Hendricks Sue Whitney Ryan Swanson Jon Whittle Nicole Paskowsky Randy Vance Dan Armitage, Chris Caswell, Dean Travis Clarke, Garrett Cortese, Capt. Vincent Daniello, Bill Doster, Ken Englert, Michael Folkerts, Peter Frederiksen, Joe Friedman, Andrea Gaytan, Steve Griffin, Michael “Mick” Hannock, Mark Heger, Jeff Hemmel, Forest Johnson, Rich Johnson, Alan Jones, Tom King, Craig Kotilinek, John Linn, Charles Plueddeman, Capt. John N. Raguso, Lenny Rudow, Tonya Russell, Tom Schlichter, Rick Shackleton, Ed Sherman, Heather Steinberger, Zach Stovall, John Tiger Jr., Capt. John Page Williams Tim Barker, Tim Bower, Colin Hayes Kelly Kramer Weekley Pete Coffin
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, MEDIA
Glenn Sandridge 407-571-4747; glenn.sandridge@bonniercorp.com PUBLISHER
/ BRAND MANAGER
John McEver 407-405-0109; john.mcever@bonniercorp.com DIRECTOR, BRAND STRATEGY
Rhonda Mock 407-571-4696; rhonda.mock@bonniercorp.com MARKETPLACE
/ ACCOUNT MANAGER
Brian Luke 407-571-4788; brian.luke@bonniercorp.com
EST THE BSERVICE CLAIMIN THE ! STRY U D N I
DIRECTOR, DIGITAL STRATEGY
Mike Staley 407-571-4803; mike.staley@bonniercorp.com SALES ASSISTANT
Missie Prichard 407-571-4692; missie.prichard@bonniercorp.com
BONNIER MEDIA Shawn Bean EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, BOATING Kevin Falvey
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, CREATIVE AND WATERSPORTS GROUP
For over 53 years Total Dollar has built a first-rate reputation, providing expertise that’s second to none. You’ll get customtailored insurance — agreed value hull, liability and special coverage, plus personalized service and rates that won’t gouge your pocket.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR DIRECTOR, CREATIVE OPERATIONS COPY CHIEF SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER SENIOR DIRECTOR, ENTHUSIAST ENGAGEMENT DIRECTOR, DIGITAL CONTENT PRODUCTION AND PRESENTATION DIGITAL PRODUCER
Dave Weaver Stephanie Pancratz Cindy Martin Franki Giordano Mark MacKenzie Michellina Jones Brian Daugherty
Call us 7 days a week at:
800-962-5659
EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, MEDIA
A Foundation Risk Partners Company
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, EVENTS EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, CREATIVE EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, DIGITAL OPERATIONS SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCE VICE PRESIDENT, ENTERPRISE SOLUTIONS DIRECTOR, HUMAN RESOURCES GENERAL COUNSEL
Dr. Jens Mueffelmann David Ritchie Glenn Sandridge Jonathan Moore Shawn Bean David Butler Tara Bisciello Shawn Macey Alison Klein Jeremy Thompson
Printed in the USA
Member: Professional Insurance Agents Association Better Business Bureau
One Pleasant Avenue, Pt. Washington, NY 11050 Toll Free: 800-962-5659 Fax: 516-704-2285 • Web: www.totaldollar.com E-mail: info@totaldollar.com
John Posey, TX
Buzz Fyhrie, FL
972-775-3523
888-327-8467
For reprints, send an email to reprints@bonniercorp.com.
This product is from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources.
Occasionally, we make portions of our subscriber list available to carefully screened companies that offer products and services we think might be of interest to you. If you do not want to receive these offers, please advise us at 515-237-3697. All contents copyright ©2021 Bonnier Corporation. No use may be made of materials contained herein without express written consent. For inquiries, please contact us at Bonnier Corporation, 480 N. Orlando Ave., Suite 236, Winter Park, FL 32789.
FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SUBSCRIPTION QUESTIONS, such as renewals, address changes, email preferences, billing and account status, go to boatingmag.com/cs. You can also email BGMcustserv@cdsfulfillment.com. In the U.S. call toll-free 800-289-0399. Outside the U.S. call 515-237-3697 or write to Boating Magazine, PO Box 6364, Harlan, IA 51593. Retail Single Copy Sales: ProCirc Retail Solutions Group, Tony DiBisceglie.
DON’T LET MOLD & MILDEW RUIN YOUR DAY ON THE WATER
303® MOLD & MILDEW CLEANER + BLOCKER · CLEANS hard to remove stains · PREVENTS stains from re-occurring AFTER
· BLEACH FREE! Safe for use on all water-safe surfaces including fabrics · FRESH SCENT - No strong odors
BEFORE
303products.com
303® Mold & Mildew Cleaner + Blocker is available at: MADE IN THE U.S.A.
West Marine & Participating Marine Dealers
By Kevin Falvey
EDITORIAL
WHAT WE’RE ALL ABOUT H e l p i n g y o u b uy, o w n a n d e n j o y b o a t s .
W
TONYA RUSSELL Author of “Cruise Control” on page 96 you’ll also find this boat owner’s work in Allure and The New York Times.
e take our job seriously. That means producing content that helps you more confidently buy, own and use boats. It’s the raison d’etre for our certified boat tests, in which independent performance numbers along with pricing, comparisons with similar boats, and our tech team’s opinion—honed by testing more than 100 different boats per year—combine to give you what we think equals the best boat test bar none. Of course, using a boat is a different matter entirely than buying one, even though one’s intended use bears on what type of boat might be chosen, and with what power and what equipment. If you start relating tips for fuel efficiency, for example, the focus for describing the qualities of a given boat’s fuel system gets lost. Not to mention the limited space on the page of our print edition. So, beyond boat tests, we create a range of content designed to shed light on areas of operating a boat that we believe you’ll find useful. Often, we strive for direct and efficient communication of tips and techniques you can use today. Random examples include Many of these ideas come from how to tie an eye splice, a better way to your feedback, so join the converstow your anchor, and docking in a crosswind. Our monthly Quick Study sation on our various social media department represents this kind of channels or by dropping a line to unadorned, to-the-point print content. editor@boatingmag.com. We also utilize experts as another means to present articles on how to use your boat. Whether this is a ride-along with a performance boat champion, a tournament fisherman, a professional towing captain or a yacht-club launch operator, we go out on the water with professional mariners to find out what recreational boaters can learn from their experience and how they view recreational boaters. That’s what we’ve done for you this issue with Tonya Russell’s article, “Cruise Control,” beginning on page 96. Russell, in her first byline for Boating, heads out aboard a 75-foot Sunseeker with private-yacht skipper Capt. Kelly Gordon. Gordon and her first mate, Gianna Mesi, literally show Russell the ropes of running a big boat. In the course of getting the scoop, Russell, a boat owner herself of nine years tenure, captures tips and viewpoints that will prove valuable to both novice and experienced boaters alike. Plus, Russell relates her story with a command of language, an excellent meter and an easygoing style. Don’t miss it. Many of these ideas come from your feedback, so join the conversation on our various social media channels or by dropping a line to editor@boatingmag.com. Enjoy the issue.
PHOTO: COURTESY TONYA RUSSELL
Kevin Falvey, Editor-in-Chief editor@boatingmag.com
2 4 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
32 - 36 - 41 - 45
The Gran Turismo 41 is the latest model to join BENETEAU’s express cruiser line, and she presents herself as the ultimate powerplay for those looking to dominate the water in style. Adventurous and spacious, she combines sport and relaxation to master a fresh new model where limits simply do not exist. Whether its her boast-worthy speed, racy head-turning lines, or her many inviting social spaces, this feature-rich cruiser offers endless opportunities for entertainment and enjoyment on the water. WWW.BENETEAU.COM/US
Meet the all-new Sea-Doo Switch
®
The Sea-Doo family is welcoming something new and exciting! Meet Switch, the configurable pontoon that combines comfort with the fun of a Sea-Doo. Easy to drive, it also adapts to whatever activity you’re doing. It’s time to Switch it up and let the fun begin.
Check out our pontoons at Sea-Doo.com © 2021 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc. Carefully read the operator’s guide and safety instructions. Observe applicable laws and regulations. Always wear appropriate protective clothing for your type of boating use, including a Coast Guard approved life jacket. Riding, alcohol and drugs don’t mix. See your authorized BRP dealer for details.
ON BOARD WITH... CAPTAIN’S TEST ONLINE THIS MONTH FOR COMPARISON’S SAKE BY THE NUMBERS FIRST IMPRESSION GEAR HEAD 5 THINGS
Making Waves BOATINGMAG.COM OCTOBER 2021
S C AN ME To read the full interview online, scan this tag or go to boatingmag .com/tugski.
Rusty Van Ranch
PHOTO: COURTESY RUSTY VAN RANCH
“Creator of all things unnecessary”
Like most people who know him these days, we discovered Rusty Van Ranch via social media. His creation of the Tugski, a children’s plastic tugboat sandbox propelled by a PWC engine, has gone viral, and we knew we had to find out more. —Garrett Cortese
Where did the concept for the Tugski come from? I saw a video where someone put a trolling motor on one of these sandboxes, and it looked pretty fun. So I challenged my brothers to see who could build the fastest tugboat sandbox. I have the tendency to go a little overboard (no pun intended). They forfeited when they saw me cutting a personal watercraft in half. What engine did you use? The drivetrain is out of a 1994 Yamaha VXR WaveRunner. It’s a 650cc two-stroke.
What is the Tugski’s top speed? The fastest I’ve gone is 23 knots before it starts porpoising, but she definitely has more in her. I plan on designing a trimtab setup for it, and I think I’ll probably be able to almost double that speed. Who has more fun going out on the Tugski, you or your daughter? Definitely me. She likes to go for slow cruises on it and jump off. But, naturally, I like to go fast and jump my own wake. She hasn’t quite warmed up to the idea of that yet. B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 2 7
ICOM VIDEO VHF
VHF video tip of the month
MAKING WAVES /// C A P TA I N ’ S T E S T
POWER While more and more powerful engines are being introduced of late, buying and installing new power requires patience due to the short supply of everything from steel to electronic components. While you wait for yours, let’s bone up on today’s power. —John Tiger (Answers on page 30) 1. You’re considering a new 30-foot bowrider. Your power choices are twin sterndrives, twin outboards or triple outboards. What might you think about while considering your choices? A. Outboards are the rage today, even on larger boats. Go for the eggbeaters. B. Twin drives create less underwater drag and are less maintenance, than three; twins are likely the best overall choice. C. Careful study of available boat tests and fuel consumption is necessary. D. A and B E. B and C 2. What are some of the careful considerations to keep in mind when choosing a new outboard? A. It’s likely that the majority of service will have to be performed by the dealer. Make a careful evaluation and look at service reviews; pick a dealer close to where you boat, and make service a priority. B. Older outboards are typically lighter than newer ones, so added weight on the transom could be a problem for some hulls. C. What about rigging and steering upgrades? These might be necessary, and will add significantly to the tab. D. None of the above E. All of the above 3. If your boat is rated by its capacity plate for 250 hp, and your old engine is a 1983 Johnson 200, should you upgrade and buy a 250—the maximum power possible for your hull? A. Your old 200 is a two-stroke and rated at the powerhead; at the prop,
MADE POSSIBLE BY
it’s likely about 185 hp, and it only weighs about 400 pounds. Be careful and inspect the transom and hull for integrity, and consult with your dealer. Modern engines of similar or more rated power might be too much for your hull. B. No. The capacity plate has nothing to do with max rated power. Go with the engine you want. C. Get the expert opinion of those on Facebook enthusiast groups, then make your decision. D. B and C 4. Your sterndrive bit the dust; what are some areas you should check before buying a replacement? A. If you’re buying aftermarket, will your dealer install and service it if you can’t? B. What warranty does it come with? C. Does the dealer require your old drive as a “core,” and if so, how much is it worth? D. Does it have a cool black paint finish? E. A, B and C F. All of the above 5. Your dealer is offering a stainless-steel propeller or extended warranty as a bonus with your new engine. Which is the best choice? A. The stainless prop—it’s worth a few miles per hour, which is a huge bonus. B. The warranty—you can always buy a stainless prop later. C. Both are valuable. The best bet is to see if the dealer will provide the warranty and throw in the prop. D. None of the above
ONLINE THIS MONTH OUTBOARDS With so many of today’s boats hanging outboards off the transom, it’s a good idea to get familiar with every type of outboard engine out there. To
SC AN ME To see this video and all Icom VHF radio tips, scan this tag or visit, boatingmag.com/vhf-tips
get a better look at 15 of today’s best outboard engines, go to boatingmag.com/story/boats/ best-outboard-motors or scan this tag!
Command & Control Using Your Smart Device
M510
new
Marine VHF Fixed Mount With Class D DSC Simple user interface allow the casual and serious boaters alike plenty of options to communicate. Command and control using iOS™ and Android™ smart devices, through the RS-M500 app. Bring it On. Add a sleek COMMANDMIC™ for a full featured second wired control station.
• Built-in GPS
• Space Saving Shallow Design
• Connect Up To 3 Smart Devices
• AIS Version Available
• Front / Back Mic Connections
• Hailer / Loud Speaker Option
www.icomamerica.com/marine sales@icomamerica.com ©2021 Icom America Inc. The Icom logo is a registered trademark of Icom Inc. 21117
SEASICKNESS REMEDIES
Help Starts Here. Sea Tow® PHPEHUV VHUYHG ÀUVW
Our Captains are on scene in an average of one hour or less, getting members home and back to boating faster.
Are you a member? Join now and save 10% seatow.com/boating
DRAMAMINE
RELIEFBAND
PRINCE OF PEACE
THE CALM: A simple
THE CALM: Want a solution
dose of over-the-counter Dramamine is the standby for boaters who are prone to getting ill on wavy days. It’s known and trusted by many to be effective in preventing seasickness if taken via pill or patch. The active ingredient, dimenhydrinate, is an antihistamine that helps reduce feelings of nausea and dizziness when taken properly.
that doesn’t involve ingesting something? This is a hightech wearable device that’s waterproof to IPX7 standards and is rugged enough to handle a marine environment. It works by sending pulses to the underside of your wrist to help calm your feelings of motion sickness, either as prevention or for treatment after the fact. The rechargeable battery reportedly lasts for 30 hours of medium use.
GINGER CHEWS THE CALM: Remember when you felt queasy as a kid and your mom gave you a ginger ale? It wasn’t just for the fizz. Ginger is known in traditional and folk medicines to help combat feelings of motion sickness and an upset stomach. For those of you more inclined to go the herbal or natural route rather than gadgets or over-the-counter medicines, ginger might be the ticket for you.
THE STORM: It’s an
THE STORM: Let’s just say
expensive solution to your seasickness problem.
it’s an acquired taste.
THE STORM: The original
Dramamine is known to cause drowsiness. Must be taken in advance to work. PRICE: $10 for a pack of 36;
amazon.com
33
PRICE: $7 for a 4-ounce
pack; amazon.com
PRICE: $229.99;
reliefband.com
Average cost of a gallon of gasoline, in cents, 50 years ago today in 1971.
C A P TA I N ’S T E ST
(Answers from page 28)
1. E. 2. E. 3. A. 4. E. 5. C. Try for both, but if it’s a no-go, the warranty (B) is best. CAPTAIN’S TESTS ONLINE Test your knowledge of boating with more Captain’s Tests at boatingmag.com/captains-test.
PHOTOS: COURTESY DRAMAMINE, COURTESY RELIEFBAND, COURTESY PRINCE OF PEACE GINGER CHEWS; SOURCE FOR STATISTIC: INTERNET SOURCES
Sooner or later, it happens to everybody, regardless of their boating experience. If you’re prone to seasickness, here are three preventions and treatments to consider to ease the quease. —Pete McDonald
FI
FIRST IMPRESSION By Jim Hendricks
ROBALO
The new R266 Cayman from Robalo represents the largest model in the brand’s bay-boat line. But it’s more than an inshore fishing machine. With a HydroLift multiangle running surface, Kevlar-reinforced hull, deep padded midcockpit coamings, 110-gallon fuel capacity and power rating of 425 hp, the R266 offers offshore capabilities too. A hydraulic jack plate maximizes performance. A hardtop and three-sided glass windshield envelop the helm, which is wide enough for a pair of 12-inch multifunction displays. The leaning-post helm seat features a flip-up bolster. A 9-foot4-inch beam lends stability on the bow and stern casting platforms. Crew can rest
in the forward U-shaped seating nook with backrests to create a pair of loungers. There’s lockable rod stowage below. A double-wide seat folds out from the aft casting platform. The forward-opening console grants room for a marine head. A 30-gallon livewell resides under the aft
platform, while a 20-gallon well lies under the bow deck. The base price of $114,795 includes a tandem-axle aluminum trailer. · LOA: 26'6" · BEAM: 9'4" · DRAFT: 1'8" (engine up) · DISPLACEMENT: 4,500 lb. (with engine) · FUEL CAPACITY: 110 gal. R O B A L O B O AT S
Nashville, Georgia; 229-686-7481; robalo.com
PHOTO: COURTESY ROBALO BOATS
R266 CAYMAN
Explore your world Navigate to a cleaner future Micron Navigator is a unique and revolutionary antifouling that combines both water-based and copper-free technologies enabling optimum fouling control for all waters and boats. This technology delivers multi-seasonal protection via a lower concentration of active ingredients, achieving a more environmentally responsible antifouling without compromising premium protection as you explore your world.
Interlux.com
FI
FIRST IMPRESSION By Kevin Falvey
REWARD
PHOTO: COURTESY KING HELL BOATS
17 Sport Runabout Powered by a water jet and drawing just 11 inches (the draft spec is 103/4 inches), the Reward 17 Sport Runabout looks great and tops out at 50 knots (57 mph). It just might be the ideal beach boat. Power comes from the proven Rotax 1,630 cc (99 cid) ACE engine, a threecylinder, fuel-injected mill that makes 170 hp. For enhanced reliability in the salt chuck, Reward configured closed-loop engine cooling with raw-water exhaust cooling. The Intelligent Neutral Reverse (iNR) electrically controlled reversing bucket induces neutral and reverse functions and varies engine speed, and fast ratio steering is fitted. These and more add up to a boat that runs and handles as
good as this sleek hull looks. Construction details include the use of vacuum-infused vinylester resin and a cored laminate—processes and products resulting in a light yet stiff and strong structure, and one built with less polluting emissions than more traditional
boatbuilding methods. The price is $65,000. Look for our test coming soon. · LOA: 16'7" · BEAM: 5'1" · DRAFT (MAX): 1'5" · DISPLACEMENT: 1,400 lb. · FUEL CAPACITY: 18 gal. K I N G H E L L B O AT S
Weston, Massachusetts; 978-330-7722; kinghellboats.com
GEAR HEAD
POLK TOWER CANS
GH GEAR HEAD
$589.99 per pair; polkmarine.com
Sea-Fire systems use clean 3M Novec 1230, a nontoxic cleaning agent that can be breathed in with no ill effects. Plus, unlike HFC-based suppressants, it is not a greenhouse gas. SeaFire designs extinguishers to discharge in less than 10 seconds, and they leave no corrosive residue that can damage onboard equipment or sensitive electronics. Extinguishers and systems are approved by the US Coast Guard. Starting at $211.43; go2marine.com
3 4 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
thing needed to rebuild and repair JMP flexible-impeller pumps. There are more than 120 kits for JMP and competitor pump models. Each minor kit contains a flexible, heat- and wear-resistant impeller, an end cover with an O-ring and screws, a wear plate, spring washers, a snap ring and a mechanical-seal set. The major kit adds a stainless-steel shaft, bearings, a cam, a slinger, a gasket and hardware. Starting at $57.92 for a minor kit, $169.97 for a major kit; jmpusa.com
PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) COURTESY POLK, COURTESY JMP MARINE, COURTESY SEA-FIRE
SEA-FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
SCHMITT & ONGARO TRUMPET HORNS
SEASUCKER TABLES
PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY SEASUCKER, COURTESY SCHMITT & ONGARO, COURTESY BOATLIFE, COURTESY STRIKEHOLD, COURTESY QWIK-LOK
SeaSucker cutting tables are available in two sizes, and they install and remove in seconds. The 12-inch-wide-by-17-inchlong small model comes with a 4½-inch SeaSucker horizontal vacuum mount that holds 120 pounds. The large model is 12 inches wide and 22 inches long, and will secure 210 pounds with its 6-inch vacuum mount. The vacuum mounts are designed to maintain grip indefinitely. $125 for the small table, $149 for the large; seasucker.com
Stainless-steel marine trumpet horns from Schmitt & Ongaro Marine Products emit an attention-grabbing tone while adding a nautical appearance. A patented drainage system allows water to escape to ensure durability and allow for mounting in an upward orientation. Internal components are fully sealed in resin and protected from water ingress by rubber gaskets. They’re available as a single horn or in a dual version. Starting at $134.80; schmittongaromarine.com
LARGER QWIK-LOK FITTINGS
Qwik-Lok fittings from FlowRite now come in 1½-by-1-inch straight and 90-degree elbow sizes to fit a wider range of marine plumbing projects. Manufactured from rustproof polypropylene, the male end has dual O-rings for a watertight connection. This slides into the female end that has an easy-tograsp four-fingered collar for maximum engagement. They’re ideal for use with bilge pumps, raw-water intakes, livewells and ballast systems. Starting at $8.99; flow-rite.com
STRIKEHOLD MARINE LUBRICANT
RELEASE SEALANT REMOVER
6WULNH+ROG 0DULQHōV DQWL FRUURVLRQ OXEULFDQW SHQHWUDQW ZDV Ɠ UVW IRUPXODWHG IRU PLOLWDU\ XVH WR SUHYHQW UXVW 7KH V\QWKHWLF EOHQG SHQHWUDWHV into metal parts to displace moisture and form a ERQG WKDW UHSHOV VDOW ZDWHU DQG RWKHU FRQWDPL nants. StrikeHold is dielectric and nonconducWLYH IRU DSSOLFDWLRQ WR EDWWHU\ WHUPLQDOV DQG HOHFWULFDO FRQQHFWLRQV ,W FUHDWHV D ORQJ ODVWLQJ FOHDU SURWHFWLYH FRDWLQJ WKDW LVQōW JUHDV\ DQG FRQWDLQV QR ZD[ VLOLFRQ 7HŴ RQ RU JUDSKLWH WR JXP XS PHFKDQLVPV SHU RXQFH VSUD\ FDQ VWULNHKROG FRP
Release Adhesive & Sealant Remover from BoatLife rePRYHV VLOLFRQH DQG SRO\VXOƓ GH VHDODQWV IURP Ɠ EHUJODVV ZRRG PHWDO DQG JODVV DQG LV HTXDOO\ HIIHFWLYH LQ UHPRYLQJ DGKHVLYH YLQ\O GHFDOV 6SUD\ DORQJ WKH HGJH RI WKH VHDODQW RU GHFDO RU GLUHFWO\ RQ UHVLGXH WKHQ XVH D plastic scraper to loosen and remove. $15.52 per 1-ounce ERWWOH ERDWOLIH FRP
B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 3 5
MAKING WAVES /// 5 T H I N G S
FIVE BOATING SITUATIONS SCARIER THAN HALLOWEEN
A flat trailer tire
The fuel gauge on E
5
THINGS
A broken seacock
MORE THAN 5 See more humorous things at boatingmag.com/five-things.
INTUITIVE CONTROL
Seastar Optimus Adaptive Trim Tab System Sophisticated design provides position feedback and complete integration with the Optimus Joystick and Electronic Power Steering systems. dometic.com
ILLUSTRATIONS: COLIN HAYES
A fishing hook through the thumb
Sharks circling your boat
CRAFTED IN THE UNITED STATES
338BR | 338OB | 38GLS | 39EC | 42GLS |
42C | 46C | 50C | 54C | 54F | 60C | 60F
For more information on the 42 Cantius, please visit
CRUISERSYACHTS.COM
Don’t forget to bring in your lines after departing from the dock.
I
t was a beautiful June day on the California Delta. From our campground in Isleton, my girlfriend and I decided to boat up to Old Town Sacramento for lunch. It is about 35 miles one-way, with many no-wake zones, so it can take a while to complete the whole trip. The trip couldn’t have started off any better. When we arrived, the city of Sacramento provided great courtesy docks, so we had no problem finding a spot to tie up our 21-foot Ultra and then ventured to enjoy the restaurants and shops in Old Town. The only minor issue was the current on that part of the river is pretty swift, so I tied off the bow in addition to the middle and stern cleats. After an enjoyable time onshore, we returned to the boat. I started the engine, and everything seemed good, so I untied the lines and pulled away from the dock. As we made our way under a bridge to head back toward the campground, I said, “Uh-oh, something’s not right.” The boat felt sluggish, so I guessed that something had probably wrapped around the prop. I managed to maneuver around the bridge supports because I knew we would be drifting downriver for a few minutes. I killed the engine and lifted the outdrive. To my surprise, a 6-foot section of the stern dock line had wrapped the prop. With one foot on the swim step and a hand on the grab handle, I managed the get the
Apparently, when the line was whipping around the prop, it knocked into the plug and dislodged it from the drain hole. we managed to find a beach close by. I motored up parallel to shore and, in the shallow water, put in the spare plug. Now I had to contend with all the water that had come into the boat. I continued to run the bilge while we manually bailed water until we’d finally cleared enough to get up on plane. The lessons learned? Always stow the dock lines before getting underway and be sure to carry a spare drain plug at all times. Gary Lane Via email
WANTED: YOUR STORIES Share your boating mistakes and mishaps so that your fellow boaters might learn from your experience. Send us your first-person accounts, including what went wrong, what you’d do differently, your name and your city, to editor@boatingmag .com and use “ILAB” in the subject line. If your experience is selected, we’ll send you a $100 West Marine gift card.
3 8 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
ILLUSTRATION: TIM BOWER; PHOTO: COURTESY WEST MARINE
TANGLED AND UNPLUGGED
line free. Phew. Then I stepped back in the boat, only to discover we had a water leak. I went back out on the swim step and felt around the transom to discover the drain plug was missing. Apparently, when the line was whipping around the prop, it knocked into the plug and dislodged it from the drain hole. Thankfully, I had an extra plug on board, but I didn’t want to risk dropping it overboard in the deep water. Water kept coming in, and I had to think fast. I grew worried because the levees on that part of the river are mostly rock, with sandy beaches few and far between. Luckily for us,
SEAMANSHIP
By Jim Hendricks
The Coast Guard’s Local Notice to Mariners can help you steer clear of new navigation hazards.
On August 16, 2020, while fishing alone in Los Angeles Harbor near San Pedro, California, my friend Dave Brown glimpsed a mysterious object gliding through the water. He recorded a six-second video before it disappeared behind a jetty. Perplexed and a tad spooked, Brown posted the video on Facebook and asked if anybody might recognize the mastlike object protruding 6 feet above the surface and moving at about 5 mph. I pegged it almost immediately, though I had never previously eyeballed one. That’s because I’m a boating nerd. I subscribe to weekly emails from the United States Coast Guard, District 11, each containing a link to the Local Notice to Mariners (LNM) on the Coast Guard’s website. I look for notices in areas where I frequently boat, including the waters off San Pedro. So, when Brown’s post appeared, it jogged my memory. A week earlier, an LNM contained information under the heading “Boeing XLUUV Operations.” It read: “Boeing is conducting engineering sea trials for an extra-large
unmanned undersea vehicle called Echo Voyager in the vicinity of the San Pedro Channel and Santa Catalina Island until 10 Oct. 20.” A quick internet search for the Echo Voyager confirmed that the shape of the mast matched the one in Brown’s video. The notice listed coordinates for the areas of operation and requested that boaters transit with caution and keep 500 yards distance from the Echo Voyager. Though Brown did not spot any other vessels, the notice indicated that two escort boats would be on the scene monitoring Channel 16. Mystery solved. But there’s a lesson here: Navigational hazards can appear unexpectedly. In the case of the Echo Voyager, the mast is one hazard, but lurking a few feet below the surface is another—the 51-foot hull with a 16,000-pound displacement.
4 0 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
It pays to be aware, and reviewing the weekly Coast Guard LNM for your district is one of the best ways. At navcen .uscg.gov you’ll find an LNM link at the top of the page that opens a district map with links to current notices as well as past LNMs. An LNM might seem overwhelming. For example, for the 29th week of 2021 (the latest as this was written), the District 11 LNM spanned 20 pages, plus another 25 pages of supporting documents. I’ve seen some 60-plus-page LNMs. I don’t read it all. Instead, I scan for information relevant to my home waters. The Coast Guard makes this easy by listing notices according to state or region, waterway and locale, except for some general notices. For example, the LNM for District 7 covers Florida, Georgia and South Carolina, but if you boat on the west coast of Florida, you can largely ignore the headings labeled Georgia and South Carolina, unless you’re planning a visit. Further, you can probably skip notices for Florida’s Atlantic coast. All sections are important, but my favorite weekly read is Section VII, which lists information of general concern such as ongoing dredging operations, bridge construction, harbor projects, buoy deployment, bathymetric surveys, artificial-reef construction and sea trials of mysterious unmanned subs.
Here are the eight sections of the Local Notice to Mariners, with a brief summary of each. The Coast Guard relies on a plethora of acronyms in its notices, so check the abbreviation legend in the LNM for meanings of those that are not clear. SECTION I: SPECIAL NOTICES Information of special concern to mariners. SECTION II: DISCREPANCIES Reported and corrected discrepancies related to aids to navigation (ATONs). SECTION III: TEMPORARY CHANGES Temporary changes and corrections to ATONs for dredging, testing, evaluation or marking an obstruction. SECTION IV: CHART CORRECTIONS Corrections to federal and privately maintained ATONs, as well as National Ocean Service corrections. SECTION V: ADVANCE NOTICES Advance notice of approved and upcoming projects, as well as related changes to ATONs. SECTION VI: PROPOSED CHANGES Notice of proposed but nonapproved projects for public comment. SECTION VII: GENERAL Information of general concern to mariners, who are advised to use caution when transiting the affected areas. SECTION VIII: LIST OF LIGHT CORRECTIONS A list of corrections to lights on ATONs.
PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK
LOCAL N O T I C E TO MARINERS
KNOW BEFORE YOU HEAD OUT
HOOKED ON™ SUZUKI TECHNOLOGY
AWARD WINNING
DRIVE-BY-WIRE
LIMITED WARRANTY
5 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY applies to qualifying purchases of Suzuki outboard motors sold and delivered to the retail purchaser, for pleasure (non-commercial) use only, from April 1, 2021 through March 31, 2022. See Suzuki Limited Warranty for additional details. Suzuki, the “S” logo, and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki Trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2021 Suzuki Marine USA, LLC. All rights reserved.
By Andrea Gaytan
L IK E FATH ER AND MOTHER, LIKE SON Champion water-skier Dorien Llewellyn reflects on his parents’ words of wisdom in his career.
“You have to decide who you want to be in life. Then you make decisions throughout the rest of your time on Earth that will either help you achieve your goals or will put your dreams in jeopardy.” While I might be paraphrasing slightly, and who can really blame me as I was only 8 years old when I heard this quote, these words from my father have been a guiding beacon in every aspect of my existence. Now, when the most successful professional water-skier of all time imparts any kind of wisdom onto an aspiring athlete, most people would assume that the words would not fall on deaf ears. Yet, when that same nine-time world-champion water-skier named Jaret Llewellyn is your father, sometimes you forget how special your family is, and you have to
remember never to take them, or their accomplishments, for granted. You see, in addition to my aforementioned father, I grew up in a family full of world champions. My mother, Britta, was a professional water-skier on the Austrian national team, winning two world titles in her career, and my uncle, Kreg Llewellyn, skied with my father on the Canadian team while also cementing his place in history as the first wakeboard world champion. So, the expectation in the water-ski community was
4 2 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
that I would follow in the footsteps of the family legacy. Yet I didn’t start out a skier; in fact, I was more infatuated with ice hockey for the majority of my adolescence, which was only natural, given my Canadian heritage. My parents never pushed me toward waterskiing, or any sport specifically, and gave me the opportunity to learn and grow as both an athlete and a person in each and every activity I undertook. I firmly believe that my parents’ willingness to allow me to decide for myself about who I wanted to be and what I wanted to do was what led me back to the sport of water-skiing. Many years later, I am putting my best foot forward in an attempt to carve my own path in the Llewellyn legacy. Still, the pressures and expectations that come from such a successful family can carry significant weight. So, when I lose sight of what’s important and forget to focus
on what I can control, I am reminded of my mother’s words: “You can only go out there and perform to the best abilities that you are capable of on this day.” In the end, we all strive to be the best versions of ourselves today. Whether our best is enough to achieve everything we want isn’t the point. My parents raised me to believe that the act of giving ourselves wholeheartedly to a worthwhile endeavor, namely one that pushes us to the limits of our capabilities, allows us to learn through the process of both success and failure. That process gives us the opportunity to
become an improved version of ourselves tomorrow, which is the true meaning of life. —By Dorien Llewellyn, as told to Andrea Gaytan
PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT) OSCAR PONCE, COURTESY DORIEN LLEWELLYN (2)
Whether our best is enough to achieve everything we want isn’t the point.
Elevate Your Escape At Aviara, our vision is to create crafts that challenge the status quo; to give forward-thinking boaters what they’ve always wanted—style, control, and luxury on their own terms. With striking lines and carefully curated features, Aviara’s innovative design brings a fresh style like nothing else on the water. Visit us online and discover how to elevate your escape today.
AVIARABOATS.COM
AV32 AV36 AV40
@aviaraboats
Switch to GEICO and see how easy it could be to save money on boat insurance. Simply visit geico.com/boat to get started.
geico.com/boat | 1-800-865-4846 | Local Office
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2021 GEICO. 21_660726485
BOAT DOCTOR BOATINGMAG.COM OCTOBER 2021
Q&A
BUFF IT OUT Using a By Hannock
polishing pad with the right products can restore your boat’s shine.
BOAT DOCTOR /// Q&A
SHINE ON!
PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) COURTESY WEST MARINE, COURTESY STAR BRITE
Q:
Is there a best boat wax? I just bought a boat and want to shine it up. Jim Delano Oxnard, California
A:
No. The generic term “wax” can mean a pure wax that imparts nothing but shine to a concoction of abrasives, shine enhancers and UV protectors. It has, regrettably, become more of a marketing term than a descriptive one. That said, establish your boat-finish goals and read the labels carefully. Do you want to restore color and get rid of chalking, as well as add luster and sun protection? If so, multiple products often produce superior results to the wonder potions that claim to do many things in one step. If the boat’s finish is really bad, you’ll need some aggressive products applied by machine to restore it. Such work takes experience (which you probably don’t have, since you asked this question) to use without creating further damage. Sometimes, calling in a pro boat detailer is good.
HOOK-AND-LOOP LOGIC Hook-and-loop fasteners, sold under the Velcro brand, can secure lightweight items particularly well on horizontal surfaces where you’d rather not drill holes for screws. Use the 2-inch-wide peel-and-stick strips of industrial-strength Velcro ($9.47 for 4 feet; homedepot.com) cut to the length needed. Applied per instructions, this technique offers plenty of grip for everything from plastic trays to small tackle boxes, even in rough seas. A bit of effort is needed to separate the Velcro and peel off the adhesive when you no longer need to secure things, but there will be no holes to patch. —Jim Hendricks B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 4 5
BOAT DOCTOR /// Q & A
Q: Dear Boat Doc, we retired and will be cruising aboard our Silverton 34 twin inboard. We have dogs, and they will come with us. I have seen a few pictures of cruising boats that have what I call owner-built dog-relief stations in the cockpit. Basically, it’s a patch of sand or AstroTurf where dogs can do their business. Do you have any tips for building one of these? Marcia and Ted Hoppe Miami Lakes, Florida
A: I have no experience building marine pet-comfort stations. I might suggest looking at portable toddler sandboxes. One might suit the purpose at good economy and no effort to build. I’m sure you will, but for the record, please dispose of the product ashore—or into your holding tank through the head—and not overboard.
M U S TA N G YO U N G A D U LT REV LIFE JAC K E T As my granddaughter, Mila, outgrew her old life jacket, we searched for a new one that would fit her properly and had the styling a 10-year-old might like. We picked the US Coast Guard-approved Mustang Young Adult REV, model MV3600. This Type III vest is for weights of 88 to 100 pounds and chest sizes from 28 to 32 inches. The soft foam panels offer flexibility, freedom of movement and comfort, and beveled edges prevent
GO DIGITAL! Enjoy the same great content you get from Boating Magazine…online! Our web, social media channels and weekly enews delivers you the best and latest boating information, plus video, live streams, sweepstakes, daily updates and more. FOLLOW US ON: @boatingmag or facebook.com/boatingmag @boatingmagazine or instagram.com/boatingmagazine @boatingmagazine or twitter.com/boatingmagazine https://www.boatingmag.com/youtube/ or boatingmag.com/youtube/ https://www.boatingmag.com/email/ or boatingmag.com/email/
stands out in the water. It’s also available in a light-gray-andfluorescent-green upper. The front panel offers attachment points for gear such as a whistle. We tried it in the pool first, and it did a great job of keeping Mila afloat with her head out of the water. Just as importantly, she likes wearing it, which is a relief because California requires life jackets for kids under the age of 13. So, the REV not only ensures safety, it saves frustrating arguments with a 10-year-old. $79.99; mustangsurvival.com —Jim Hendricks
STUFF
cutting in under the arms. A ventilated back provides breathability, and the liner wicks moisture away. A zipper closure and adjustable web straps snug up for security. The bright-white-and-pink upper (with black lower) seems to be in style, and it
PHOTO: COURTESY MUSTANG
POOPER CRUISER
LEADER 6.5
NEW
LEADER 7.5 Series 3
LEADER 9.0
LEADER 10.5 Series 2
LEADER 12.5
FIND US AT THE SAND BAR LEADER RANGE: From 22 to 40 feet, these stable and powerful V-shaped hulls provide excellent seakeeping and secure handling while underway. Jam-packed with ample storage, multiple berths, enclosed head compartment, galley, and forward and aft sundecks, any one of our Leaders is the highly versatile boat you’ve been waiting for. Contact your local dealer to schedule a sea trial today by visiting jeanneau.com.
POWERED BY
BOAT DOCTOR /// Q & A
Recently, my boat’s sterndrive engine hydrolocked during launching. What causes hydrolock, and what can I do to prevent it? Thanks. Rick McKeown Via email
TRANSOM TOP
A EXHAUST ELBOW TOP LINE
B
WATERLINE
A Exhaust Elbow Top Line to Transom B Exhaust Elbow Top Line to Waterline
A:
Hydrolock occurs when there is water in one or more cylinders of your engine. It can happen for a variety of reasons relating to water running up the exhaust plumbing while a cylinder’s exhaust ports are exposed. I emailed an answer in greater detail, but for this published response, let’s just say that while launching your boat, the transom can sink lower than when the boat is floating free—and a steep ramp can force water up the exhaust as the boat slides into the water off the trailer. Overheating, chopping the throttle,
SCREWS OR BOLTS? Q: I am installing a Bimini top aboard our Cobalt. Should I use bolts or screws? Devin McElvoy Atlantic City, New Jersey
A: Generally, I would suggest bolts for a high-load application such as a Bimini
running in following seas, and failure to maintain engine exhaust shutters and exhaust port flappers are other causes of hydrolocking. At the least, an engine’s exhaust risers (depending upon the model) need to be a minimum of 13 inches above the boat’s waterline as a preventive measure against hydrolock. The diagram above shows one quick way of checking your engine’s riser height. Look for a more complete article about hydrolock causes and prevention in an upcoming issue.
or canvas top. That said, it would depend upon the orientation. That is, if the fasteners are side-loaded— as they might be if the hardware were mounted to a cabin side—I would have little problem using screws. However, if the load is in line with the fastener—that is, the Bimini hardware is on the gunwale and the
4 8 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
force will be trying to lift them out—I would suggest nuts and bolts if possible. Of course, it’s not always possible, and one needs to weigh the need versus the risk. In most cases, using screws in properly sized pilot holes, coupled with the use of an adhesive sealant such as Sikaflex 291 or 3M 5200, will get the job done.
A: Most boats, especially if stored in the water, have mold aboard. That’s because the combination of dark, damp, airless spaces—like bilges and the spaces behind or under access panels—are perfect mold breeding grounds. Specific to your problem, there is likely mold in the hoses and in either the freshwater tank or holding tank, or both. There are two relatively simple things you can do to remediate. First, make sure there are no low spots in your hoses where water can sit. If a low spot exists, replumb the hoses. Bear in mind that sometimes the space and geometry aboard boats doesn’t lend itself to perfection, and you might have to settle for as good as it gets. Second, evacuate the bowl with the water supply shut off. In other words, keep the bowl dry until it’s needed. You’ll need to open the water supply, or teach your crew how, for each use. Then, after flushing the goods, or at the end of the day or trip, evacuate the bowl again. If you care to dig deeper, you can empty and scrub out your tanks on an annual basis. Replace the hoses every few years. Doing all of this will reduce mold and the maintenance required to remove it. Good luck. ASK THE DOCTOR Send questions to Mick with your name and address to boatdr@ boatingmag.com or The Boat Doctor, Boating, 480 N. Orlando Ave., Suite 236, Winter Park, FL 32789.
ILLUSTRATION: TIM BARKER
Q:
HYDROLOCK
MOLD MANIA Q: I own a 2020 Pursuit C 288. My problem is with black mold forming in the freshwater head toilet. The cover is down on the toilet, and it has a rubber seal to prevent toilet water from slopping out. Every two weeks, I have to clean the mold out, even when the toilet has not been used. I don’t want to use any harsh bowl cleaners because it all goes into my treated holding tank. Any ideas? Capt. R.M. Silva Via email
425 HTS
470 SKY
500 FLY
SHATTERING
EXPECTATIONS Innovating with our minds. Designing with our hearts. Building with our hands. In everything we do, Galeon Yachts follows a different course. Innovative features, like panoramic sunroofs and extendable wing platforms, allow you to customize your own distinct experience.
galeonyachts.us
The Galeon Yachts line features GTO, HTS, HTC, SKY, and FLY models from 32–80 feet.
BOAT DOCTOR /// W E E K E N D W O R K B O O K
DIY + Weekend Workbook
SKILL LEVEL
Approx. 15 minutes per terminal pin
TOOLS AND SUPPLIES • Terminal pins ($0.24 each for DL 090-series female, $0.19 each for DL 090 male, cycleterminal.com) • Rubber wire seals ($0.17 each for DL 090-series for 18 to 22 AWG wire, cycleterminal.com) • Terminal extractor tool ($7.85, tecratools.com) • Terminal pin crimping tool ($33.95,
When small terminal pins in electrical connectors break or corrode, you can fix them. Most marine-engine harnesses and many electrical accessory wires now come equipped with plug-and-play connectors that help make short work of rigging jobs. These connectors easily snap together or into an electrical port. They can just as easily disconnect by pressing on a small tab to release the
half—that are connected to wires and retained within impact-resistant, nonconductive plastic housings. Rubber seals at the wire/pin connection and on the mating surface of the connector help prevent water intrusion and keep corrosion at bay. These connectors are also designed to minimize electrical resistance, which can prove critical in digital applications. However, sealed connectors are not foolproof. Wire insulations can chafe and corrode. And in extremely damp conditions, moisture can eventually seep inside the connectors
and corrode the terminal pins. If this occurs, you can replace the damaged pins inside the connector, saving the expense and trouble of buying and installing an entirely new harness. Repinning a connector is an easy job once you have the right terminal pins, wire seals and tools, though it requires patience, good lighting and perhaps a magnifying glass. Here’s how we proceeded after discovering corroded pins inside the female side of a Sumitomo DL 090-series 16pin sealed connector on the main electrical harness of a Suzuki DF200AP outboard engine. —Jim Hendricks
ILLUSTRATIONS: TIM BARKER; PHOTO: COURTESY TE CONNECTIVITY/DEUTSCH
2 OF 5 FINISH TIME
REPINNING MARINE ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS
Eclipse Crimp Tool 47 Micro Crimper
B Crimp imp ET120 T
+
MAGNIFICATION FACTOR
TIP
Before creating a final crimp, it pays to get some spare wire (the same size as the harness wire) and a few extra terminal pins and wire seals to practice and perfect your crimping technique.
TIP
ILLUSTRATIONS: TIM BARKER; PHOTO: COURTESY AZFUNN
Take note of the orientation of the terminal pin as you pull it out from the back of the connector. This will help ensure that when you insert the new pin, it will be right-side up. Also note if it’s a male or female version, and replace with a like terminal pin.
MATCHING PINS AND SEALS There are myriad sealed connectors using different styles of plastic housings, terminal pins and rubber wire seals. To find the right items, ask your boat dealer, who might order them for you. In our case, we searched online and found cycleterminal .com. By perusing the photos on the website, we found the same two-part connector, as well as the male and female terminal pins and rubber seals that fit the 18 AWG wire on the electrical harness. Within four days, the parts arrived, and we were almost ready to proceed.
THE CORRECT TOOLS In order to move ahead, you will also need a couple of comparatively inexpensive tools to repin a connector. One is a terminal extraction tool, a narrow flat blade that inserts inside the small terminal hole and lifts the tiny plastic tab that snaps over the pin to hold it in place. We ordered cycle terminal.com’s ET120 for this. The other tool is a special crimper with B-shaped dies for the bare wire crimps. We ordered the ECT47 to crimp the pins to the exposed wire and crimp the rubber seal to the wire insulation.
PIN REMOVAL With the two-piece connector snapped apart, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to gently pull out the white plastic secondary retainer inside the plastic female connector housing. This will give you access to the terminal pins within the connector. Insert the terminal extraction tool blade between the affected pin and the small plastic tab holding it in place. Apply gentle lifting pressure to the tab while carefully pulling out the corresponding wire from the back of the connector. It might help to have a friend pull on the wire while you lift the tab.
NEW PIN AND SEAL If practical, pry away the old crimp to avoid cutting the wire. Inspect the wire for corrosion and fraying. If needed, cut the wire and strip the insulation to expose 5 to 6 mm of bare wire for the new pin. Slide the seal over the wire insulation with the more slender collar toward the bitter end, where it will be crimped in place. The DL 090 pins require a twostep crimp on the bare wire using a 1.25 mm die for a pre-crimp and a 0.5 mm die for the finish crimp. A third 2.5 mm round die is for crimping the seal’s collar to the wire insulation.
Some terminal pins, wires and rubber seals are very small yet require precision when removing, crimping and reinstalling them. It helps to have good lighting and a magnifying glass. For this close work, I bought an Azfunn headset ($21.99, amazon.com) that incorporates two bright LEDs that can be angled to focus on your work, and a selection of lenses with up to 6X magnification. This hands-free headset looks similar to what jewelers use but is far less expensive.
INSERT THE NEW PIN Gently insert the new terminal pin through the same hole in the back of the connector that the old terminal pin previously occupied. Make sure the pin is in the correct orientation because the top and bottom of the terminal pins are different. Carefully push with your fingers behind the rubber seal while listening attentively for a click inside the connector, indicating that the pin has seated properly. Visually check inside the connector to confirm the correct positioning of the pin. Once finished, snap the plastic secondary retainer back in place.
B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 5 1
BOAT DOCTOR /// Q U I C K S T U D Y
KEEPING TABS Unlike trim tabs, interceptors deploy vertically and can provide stabilization.
They are not just trim tabs.
Interceptors are not trim tabs. Yes, they are planes or foils installed on the transom of a boat that, when deployed, act to affect the trim of the boat in the fore and aft, and port and starboard orientations. But they differ in several significant ways. With some time running interceptor-equipped boats, coupled with technical expertise from recent interviews with Sean Berrie of Humphree America, maker of Humphree Interceptors (humphree.com), and Jamie Simmons of Imtra, maker of Zipwake interceptors (zipwake.com), I’ve compiled the following tips. If your boat is equipped with interceptors, try them out. If you’re thinking of buying a boat equipped with interceptors or installing them aboard your present boat, here’s a glimpse at how they’ll perform. —Kevin Falvey DIFFERENCES WITH TABS Interceptors move vertically, as opposed to trim tabs, which operate horizontally. Simply put, interceptors can create more lift with less surface area, and they can also be extended and retracted much faster than trim tabs. Factoring drag-to-lift benefits is beyond the scope of this article. Just know that
interceptors are smaller in size, and extend and retract at faster speed. MANUAL USE With interceptors, there is no discernible lag, so one adjusts trim in real time rather than waiting for the boat to respond. This is convenient if crew are moving around a lot or your course is a snaky one, requiring repeated trim adjustments.
Of course, the quick response might mean a learning curve for boaters used to tabs until they get the feel. AUTO SYSTEMS Computer-speedgyro- accelerometercontrolled systems for both trim tabs and interceptors do a great job. In my experience, for most situations, one can “set it and forget it.” About
the only time I turn it off and use manual is if I am running a breaking inlet; this environment requires anticipation. One might deliberately want excess bow up momentarily in following seas, especially breakers. So, I advise using manual mode when the ebb opposes the sea breeze. STABILITY Providing ride stability is the feature that decidedly makes interceptors more than just another flavor of trim tabs. Because they can react so quickly, and due to the computerized control, interceptors will continuously, alternately and independently extend and retract to keep the boat level and in trim at planing speeds. In fact, it is at higher speeds where interceptors provide the most stabilization
PITCH AND ROLL Interceptors affect pitch, roll and stability, thanks to GPS-computer-accelerometer integration, and can tame heel in turns.
5 2 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
TURNING By automatically adjusting the heel angle as the boat arcs through a turn, most boaters find they can make sharper turns at higher speeds without gears sliding around as much, or crew becoming concerned or losing their grip or footing. BUYING THEM Cost always arises as a question; the range and variety of boats and applications makes any kind of average price irrelevant. I will state that interceptors will cost more than most trim tabs. Note that there are no “simple” interceptor systems—without computerization and so forth—and the highestend, fully automated trim-tab systems might begin to rival the cost of interceptors. You’ll have to price out a system for your specific boat.
PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) COURTESY HUMPHREE, COURTESY ZIPWAKE (2)
HOW TO USE INTERCEPTORS
because they create more lift as the force of water flowing against them increases. So, don’t expect much stability from your interceptors at trolling speed or at rest—that’s what a gyrostabilizer is for. But from semi-displacement speed on up, they excel. Interceptors also dampen not just roll, but also pitch. For these reasons, a gyrostabilizer and interceptors can be seen as complementary rather than competing systems.
BOAT DOCTOR /// W H AT T O L O O K F O R
CENTERCONSOLE HELM SEATS
FLIP-UP BOLSTERS Any good helm seating should allow the captain the option of standing or sitting while working the wheel and throttles. A quality hinged flip-up bolster lets the captain easily choose and adjust while on the water. Look for them in the co-captain and additional crew seats as well.
BACKED UP Seats with high backs and lumbar support are ideal for use at the helm.
FLIP-UP ARMRESTS Flip-up armrests are another important upgrade in the comfort level of modern helm stations. But they have to have solid construction to withstand bearing the user’s weight when down, as well as sometimes acting as a handhold in rough seas. “We were the first to use metal frames, and that’s become an industry standard,” Covey says. QUALITY FOAM CUSHIONING Look for seats with quality foam that is both durable and comfortable, doesn’t retain water, and returns to shape after heavy use. Builders can use high-density, closed-cell or medium-density foams, but it’s important that they possess antimicrobial properties and can return to form. MARINE-GRADE VINYL While pretty much every builder uses marine-grade vinyl, some hold up better in harsh boating environments. Companies such as Llebroc will work with the
5 4 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
WATER COUCH Flip-up bolsters and armrests are must-have creature comforts on today’s center consoles.
builder or owner to find the right match for a particular boat. “We do extensive testing to make sure our vinyls stand up to mold, mildew and bacteria, and that they resist pinking,” Covey says. FLIP-DOWN TOE RAIL For most people who sit at the helm station, the seats
TIP
ADJUSTABLE BASES Look for each individual seat to have an adjustable base that allows the user to move it up or down as well as fore and aft to meet personal comfort needs. Many high-end center consoles have seats that can swivel to face aft so the captain and his first mate can join the
Check to see that any boat you’re looking at has a comfortable place to rest your throttle arm.
are too high off the deck for them to place their feet firmly down on the deck. Underway, it can be extremely uncomfortable to deal with dangling feet. Flip-down toe rests allow the captain and crew to keep a secure foothold while seated, and easily stow out of the way for those who want to stand. It’s better to have independent rails or footholds for each seat.
cockpit conversation while at anchor. PASSENGER HOLDS Helm-seat systems should have some type of handholds for passengers who are sitting or standing around the console to grab in rough seas. Look for strategically placed handles, or rails around the leaning post and built into the T-top.
PHOTOS: COURTESY LLEBROC
The transition to boats with open deck space and outboard power over the past few years has led to a profound transformation of the traditional center-console helm seating. Once just a spartan, barely cushioned leaning post meant only for (you guessed it) leaning against, today the modern “leaning post” is more of a luxury item meant to provide comfort and function to the captain and crew alike. Several companies such as Taco Marine and Llebroc offer high-end seats and helm stations for both OEM and aftermarket customers. We touched base with Nicholas Covey, the sales and marketing manager of Llebroc. Based on his input as well as our extensive boat-test research, here’s what to look for in the helm seating on center consoles. —Pete McDonald
BOAT DOCTOR /// B O AT D O C S P E C I A L
VOLVO PENTA
REPLACEMENT STERNDRIVES It’s not uncommon, but it sure is a downer. You’ve detonated your MerCruiser or Volvo Penta sterndrive, and now you’re faced with the question of rebuilding or replacing. If it’s not repairable, not all is lost.
T
Thanks to the sterndrive’s popularity over the decades, there are thousands of replacement drives—new, aftermarket, rebuilt and used—readily available. Depending on your brand and drive model, the price tag might be less than you think. MERCURY MERCRUISER Factory-new is a great option if cost is not a concern. You
get a brand-new drive with a warranty. Mercury MerCruiser offers its Quicksilver line of replacement drive units, which are factory-built and offer a three-year warranty. A new replacement Alpha One Gen II drive retails for $5,825, while a Bravo Three retails for $9,114. These prices are for complete (upper and lower) drive assemblies, but do not include shipping or installation costs. The Quicksilver line of Mercury drives is a complete business unit dedicated to repowering boats previously propelled by any engine and drive, not just MerCruiser.
5 6 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
The Quicksilver drives are factory-new, not rebuilt or remanufactured. Dealers sell Quicksilver Alpha One Gen II drives for $3,264—just a bit more than half the cost of a new replacement. This is an attractive option to get back on the water with a factoryquality drive while saving substantially over the cost of a new one. Most dealers choose this route rather than to rebuild drives because the retail pricing is very competitive. Sterndrive Engineering Inc. (SEI, sterndrive.cc) offers its own designed and manufactured replacement sterndrives and outboard gear cases. The company has earned an excellent reputation, with a three-year, nofault warranty. Over the years, many have tested this warranty (including this writer), and it’s real: SEI will replace any
of its units that fail, at no cost to the consumer. Of course, the consumer must pay to have the unit removed, boxed and shipped both ways, then reinstalled and checked—but these costs are minor relative to the cost of replacing a drive. A SEI replacement for a MerCruiser Alpha One Gen II (complete drive unit, upper and lower combined) costs $1,595. For the Bravo One, SEI offers only the lower unit, not the upper drive. This lower unit sells for $995. SEI does not currently offer a replacement for the Bravo Three drive. For high-performance and racing applications, the Bravo Shop (bravoshop.net) sells and provides remanufactured complete (upper and lower) Bravo drives, as well as its own Bmax high-strength drive unit for higher-horsepower and performance engines.
FACTORYNEW drives, such as this MerCruiser Bravo Three, can be purchased. PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) COURTESY VOLVO PENTA, COURTESY MERCURY MARINE
offers a twoyear warranty, extending to three if part of a repower.
BOAT BOAT DOCTOR DOCTOR /// /// B BO OAT AT D DO OC C SS P P EEC C II A A LL
ALL COMERS Single or twins; cruiser, racer or fish boat; fresh or salt water—there is a solution to worn-out sterndrives for all. VOLVO PENTA For Volvo Penta drives, replacement choices include a new factory drive or a rebuilt unit. Factory remanufactured drives are not available. New Volvo Penta drives come with a
SCA N ME
PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) COURTESY VOLVO PENTA, COURTESY MERCURY MARINE (2)
For reasons your sterndrive needs replacement, go to boatingmag.com/ replace-sterndrive or scan this tag!
two-year warranty—extendable to three—if installed by a certified dealer. Boatwrench (boatwrench.com), a rebuilder, typically stocks over 70 rebuilt drives. As with MerCruiser, the replacement cost for a new Volvo drive is quite high. For Volvo’s most popular DPSM dual-prop drive, for example, the retail price is $9,800. Boatwrench’s price for a reman is $6,500. For the Volvo DPE (diesel engine) drive, Volvo’s price for a new replacement is $16,110, while a Boatwrench reman unit costs $7,500. Boatwrench prices include the exchange of your old drive; otherwise, it assesses a $1,000 core charge. Comparing warranties, Volvo Penta offers one year on drives, increasing to three years if installed as part of a full repower. Boatwrench drives come with a two-year warranty. In Boatwrench’s case, its remanufacturing regimen for any drive is rigorous and exacting. The company completely disassembles a used drive, inspects and measures all components, then reassembles with new
gears, bearings and seals. Most are assembled with a used (but inspected and checked) drive shaft and propeller shaft. The exterior of the drive gets bodyworked and repainted with zinc chromate primer, sealer primer and enamel finish. OLDER AND OBSOLETE DRIVES You might recall
that OMC (Johnson/ Evinrude) offered sterndrives for many years, as did Yamaha and others. Though it’s tough to find a dealer or technician today that will service one of these, both Mercury (through its Quicksilver line) and SEI offer conversion transom plates, assemblies and drives that will
update and modernize the propulsion-system package for those with obsolete sterndrives. Bottom line: No matter its make, your sterndrive can be replaced, and your enjoyment of and confidence in your boat restored. —John Tiger
B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 5 7
BOAT DOCTOR /// B O AT D O C S P E C I A L
FAN
BOY Inventor Dick Schramer pilots the Hovertoon over Wisconsin’s Fox River. Top speed is about 45 mph.
And now for something completely different. The Hovertoon is a brainstorm brought to life by 70-yearold retired electrical engineer Dick Schramer of Berlin, Wisconsin, who thinks his creation solves a key shortcoming of hovercraft typically used in the Snowbelt for ice rescue.
T
“The fire-department hovercraft needs to fit on a flat trailer, but that makes them too small to carry more than a couple of people,” Schramer says. “During a recent rescue of four ice fishermen from a floe on Green Bay, it took multiple trips to get them and their gear back to shore. The Hovertoon will fit on a pontoon boat trailer, and has a capacity of about 1,800 pounds and a lot of deck space.” As its name implies, the
Hovertoon is a hybrid of hovercraft and pontoon. Schramer gave us a demo on his prototype, the product of 12 years and 7,000 hours mostly working alone in a shop behind his house on the banks of Wisconsin’s Fox River. Schramer’s initial calculations told him that to achieve his capacity goal, he’d need a footprint larger than that of a trailerable pontoon boat. By hinging the pontoons and swinging them up and out, he gained 50 percent more surface area and lowered the deck by about 25 inches, so less air would need to be compressed within the hovercraft’s skirts. To test his idea,
5 8 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
A FAN OF TOONS A utility motor below the foredeck powers lift fans (top), while a junkyard GM V-6 drives twin propulsion fans (bottom).
PHOTOS: CHARLES PLUEDDEMAN
A BETTER MOUSETRAP
Schramer first built a 1⁄12th scale model with four electric motors and a remote control. When that worked, he patented the design and forged ahead. The working prototype is 23 feet, 6 inches in length overall, with a beam of 8 feet, 6 inches with the pontoons under the craft, and 13 feet, 6 inches with them folded up. Four linear actuators (electric screw devices) move the pontoons. Four other actuators drop down below the deck to support the craft on a hard surface so the pontoons can be rotated back under the craft. A local canvas shop created the skirts.
A sheet-metal shop made two 12,000 cfm squirrel-cage fans, belt-driven by a 22 hp Harbor Freight utility motor below the forward deck, to pressurize the skirt and lift the craft. A pair of 42-inch propulsion fans, driven by a 195 hp V-6 engine liberated from a junkyard pickup, make 526 pounds of thrust to push the Hovertoon to about 40 mph. Schramer bought the pontoons but assembled
BOAT DOCTOR /// B O AT D O C S P E C I A L
BOAT DOCTOR /// B O AT D O C S P E C I A L
BUILD YOUR OWN! So, if you don’t count yourself as inventive enough to design and build your own from scratch, Renegade Hovercraft builds and sells a variety of hovercraft at different price and performance levels. For instance, this carbon-fiber Renegade IQ sells for $32,000. It comes with a gauge package, a USB port, navigation lights and more. It’s also available as a kit that requires “basic mechanical knowledge,” according to Renegade. Starting at $17,995; renegadehovercraft.com —Kevin Falvey
MODEL CITIZEN Schramer, the former mayor of Berlin, Wisconsin,
the rest of the boat chassis himself, sometimes from found parts. The inlet vents over the squirrel-cage fans look familiar. “Those are
grates from a Charmglow grill,” Schramer says. “When it was finished, I was a little apprehensive because I’d never
driven a hovercraft before,” Schramer says. His expansive backyard was an ideal test site, and the smooth transition to the river lets
PARTS ARE PARTS A surplus boat helm and seat sit over a fuel cell (left), and a barbecue gridiron covers the squirrel-cage fan inlet (right). 6 0 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
him glide from land to water and back again. Piloting a hovercraft seems like an exercise in very approximate “point and shoot” navigation, but Schramer drove the Hovertoon right back into his shop after our demo. He’s got it figured out. The prototype weighs about 3,200 pounds, but Schramer thinks a production version could weigh hundreds of pounds less and then carry even more weight. After investing about $40,000 in materials and the patent process, he’s taken the Hovertoon about as far as he can. He’d like to see an investor or boat manufacturer turn it into a finished product. We guess he has another brainstorm to work on. —Charles Plueddeman
PHOTOS: CHARLES PLUEDDEMAN
used this scale model to prove his Hovertoon idea would work.
Go on a power trip with
required for PBG
Discover, map, then fish structure and wrecks in an entirely new way. Create maps with PBG & DFF3D 50-100x faster than the competition
Create shaded relief maps from 10 ft. to 1,000 ft.
A lifetime of map storage on TZtouch3 MFDs
Get the whole story at NavNet.com
Bathymetric mapping up to 3x fishing depth
Draw contour lines where none exist
BOAT DOCTOR /// B O AT I N G L A B
BL
BOATINGLAB By Randy Vance
VH F HANDHELDS 2021
A handheld VHF radio is one of the most important safety devices any boater can have, standing just behind wellmaintained life jackets. Today’s handheld radios can save time searching for boating friends, ease communications in port, and keep you apprised of threatening weather conditions. Most important, in the case of an emergency, some can continuously broadcast an SOS complete with your GPS coordinates beginning at the touch of a button. Though some older radios still function without digital selective calling (DSC), this functionality is required by federal law on new fixed-mount radios, and a number of high-end handhelds now also have this feature. DSC has an important convenience in addition to its safety advantage of auto-hailing in an emergency. By using DSC technology along with a radio registered (at no cost) with the FCC via boatus.com and other sources, you can directly hail a single vessel via its maritime mobile service identity (MMSI) number, or hail a group of MMSI numbers programmed into the radio’s memory. All but one of the handhelds we tested has DSC capabilities.
TRANSMISSION CLARITY We posted a team of experienced boaters on two vessels about 2 miles apart, each with two of the test radios. Each made a call at the highest output setting to the other, and we subjectively noted the clarity on each radio. Then we swapped radios to repeat. Reception and transmission clarity were scored on a scale of 1 to 5.
6 2 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
PHOTO: COURTESY STANDARD HORIZON
HOW WE TESTED How do these radios stack up? First, we could not test the radios’ SOS capabilities—that is illegal because it could initiate a search-and-rescue mission. We didn’t want US Coast Guard swimmers dropping out of choppers at our launch ramp. So, we have to trust the government agencies that regulate this element of VHF communication devices. We also didn’t test the DSC capabilities because the radios are permanently assigned to vessels and ours would be returned to the manufacturers.
FIND MORE BOATINGLAB TESTS AT BOATINGMAG.COM.
BLUETOOTH Link
AIS IN HAND Icom incorporated an AIS receiver in its handhelds, adding safety.
ICOM M94D
$300; westmarine.com icomamerica.com Warranty: 3 years
COBRA MR HH600W FLT GPS BT
Professional-grade and powerful, this DSC-equipped handheld VHF was first to boast an internal GPS, and is now the first to include an AIS receiver to keep boaters informed of surrounding vessels’ AIS signals regarding destination, course, and speed and collision alerts. (It was interesting to note several neighbors broadcast AIS in their backyard moorings.) Select a favorite channel to scan or scan them all. Dual Watch scans your selected normal call channel, plus Channel 16. Tri Watch covers Channel 16, a call channel and one more.
$210; amazon.com cobra.com Warranty: 3 years “Breaker one-nine!” is what pops into the brain when most think of this popular citizens band radio manufacturer, but Cobra’s experience in VHF marine radios is extensive. It shows in this marine white-and-internationalorange-colored, fully featured DSC- and GPS-equipped model. Like Icom, Cobra has a rewind function that allows message playback, and adds recording and saving capability too. Ten weather channels and a dedicated MOB hard key add convenience and safety.
LIKES
PHOTOS: COURTESY ICOM, RANDY VANCE
• AIS reception gives a wealth of information about surrounding vessels transmitting AIS. • An LED flashes automatically when the floating radio falls into the water. • Adding MMSI numbers for direct hailing is easy via DSC for up to 75 individual MMSIs and 25 groups of MMSIs. • A 2,400 mAh battery. • Flash-and-float feature automatically turns on a flashing strobe if dropped overboard. • Aqua Quake, a speaker vibration tone, can be activated to shake water from the speaker after submersion and is handy in stormy weather as well.
your phone to the Cobra to receive calls on the VHF.
IMPROVEMENTS
• LCD screen is legible, but doesn’t meet the highclarity resolution of the Uniden. • This unit is more featurefilled, but the radio is bulkier than the other candidates. • AA battery pack is optional. IN THE BOX
• • • • •
Antenna, FA-SC59V AC adapter, BC-123SA Battery charger, BC-251 Battery pack, BP-306 Cigarette lighter cable, CP-25H • Belt clip, MB-133 • Hand strap
OUTPUT POWER: 6 watts (high), 1 watt (low) BATTERY LIFE: Up to 10 hours BATTERY: 2,400 mAh WATERPROOF RATING: IPX7 GPS: Built-in FLOATS: Yes USABLE CHANNEL GROUPS: INT, USA, CAN, WX channels DSC: Yes DIMENSIONS (W×H×D): 2.4-by-5.7-by-1.7 in. WEIGHT (APPROX.): 12.6 oz.
LIKES
IMPROVEMENTS
• Bluetooth connectivity enables mobile-phone use through the waterproof radio, keeping the phone safely stowed. • Included extra AA battery pack and charger-stand adapter enable continued use while charging the lithium battery pack. • Hard keys are provided for the MOB and play-again functions. • Power-save mode for GPS extends battery life. • Flash-and-float feature automatically turns on a flashing strobe if dropped overboard.
• It was audible to all ears, but Cobra’s radio wasn’t as crisp and clear while listening or calling. • Screen resolution was legible but not as sharp as the Uniden. IN THE BOX
• • • • • •
Antenna AC adapter Battery charger Battery pack AA battery pack Charger adapter for extra battery pack • Cigarette lighter cable • Belt clip • Hand strap
OUTPUT POWER: 1, 3, 6 watts BATTERY LIFE: 10 hours at 6 watts WATERPROOF RATING: IPX7 GPS: Built-in FLOATS: Yes USABLE CHANNEL GROUPS: INT, USA, CAN, WX channels DSC: Yes DIMENSIONS (W×H×D): 2.83-by-5.71-by-1.87 in. WEIGHT (APPROX.): 11.6 oz.
TEST RESULTS TRANSMISSION CLARITY: 5 RECEPTION CLARITY: 5
TEST RESULTS TRANSMISSION CLARITY: 3 RECEPTION CLARITY: 3
The Icom’s clarity of transmission and reception made this model most important in testing because it helped determine the clarity scores of the other radios.
Cobra’s features, such as Bluetooth connectivity and its play-again feature, balanced what we thought was disappointing (when compared to the others) but functional audio clarity.
B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 6 3
BOAT DOCTOR ///
FIND MORE BOATINGLAB TESTS AT BOATINGMAG.COM.
UNIDEN A powerful, clear-sounding radio, but it lacks DSC, which is important for safety.
UNIDEN ATLANTIS 275
$125; unidenfactoryoutletstore.com uniden.com Warranty: 3 years Uniden has a long history in radio communications. We’ve tested its work before in both Uniden-branded radios and a West Marine private-label radio, and clarity in transmission and reception was tough to beat. It is compact in the hand and light in weight. The floating, waterproof radio has a strobe/LED that illuminates when immersed.
HX890
$199.99; westmarine.com standardhorizon.com Warranty: 3 years
• Channel numbers are not accompanied by channel use designations. • Transmission wattage is adjusted with channel selection. • Operating menu is not
intuitive, requiring memorization of multiple simultaneous keystrokes. • Lithium battery is permanent, limiting operation to one cycle between charges, and is not designed for quick removal and changing. IN THE BOX
• Antenna • AC adapter—space-saving design • Battery charger • Cigarette lighter cable, CP-25H • Lithium battery pack • Spare AA battery pack • Belt clip, MB-133 • Hand strap • Data cable
OUTPUT POWER: 6 watts (high), 1 watt (low) BATTERY LIFE: 10 hours WATERPROOF RATING: IPX8 GPS: Built-in FLOATS: Yes USABLE CHANNEL GROUPS: INT, USA, CAN, WX channels DSC: No DIMENSIONS (W×H×D): 6-by-2.5-by-1.7 in. WEIGHT (APPROX.): 8.46 oz.
Like Icom, Standard Horizon’s VHF is professional-quality, and the HX890 has most of the top safety features, save for the AIS receiver sported by Icom’s M94D. The built-in FM receiver allows for casual listening. Two scrambler systems allow private communications between Standard Horizon radios similarly equipped. The case is slim and comfortable in the hand. LIKES
• AA spare battery pack allows emergency use without external power. • Menus are easy to navigate. • Soft keys are programmable for specific functions. • High-power output improves transmission strength. • A 1,800 mAh battery. IMPROVEMENTS
• Man overboard (MOB) is soft-key accessible and could be hidden, hindering quick access. • Screen resolution is legible but lower than the Uniden.
IN THE BOX
• Antenna • AC adapter—space-saving design • Battery charger • Cigarette lighter cable, CP-25H • Lithium battery pack • Spare AA battery pack • Belt clip, MB-133 • Hand strap • Data cable • European power adapter
OUTPUT POWER: 6 watts (high), 1 watt (low) BATTERY LIFE: 11 hours WATERPROOF RATING: IPX8/Mil-STD-810F GPS: Built-in FLOATS: Yes USABLE CHANNEL GROUPS: INT, USA, CAN, WX channels DSC: Yes DIMENSIONS (W×H×D): 2.6-by-5.43-by-1.5 in. WEIGHT (APPROX.): 10.94 oz.
TEST RESULTS TRANSMISSION CLARITY: 5 RECEPTION CLARITY: 5
TEST RESULTS TRANSMISSION CLARITY: 4 RECEPTION CLARITY: 4
The Uniden is modestly priced but lacks DSC. Still, one of our testers is an electrical engineer with a long history in radio equipment and immediately took a shine to this radio.
We tested two of these radios because the first one was defective. The second one, acquired at West Marine, fully functioned up to expectations.
6 4 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
PHOTOS: RANDY VANCE, COURTESY STANDARD HORIZON
IMPROVEMENTS
Logical menus and easy-tonavigate soft keys.
STANDARD HORIZON
LIKES
• This VHF features an extremely clear, crisp LCD screen. • Screen’s backlight is dimmable and changes from red to white. • Most-used functions, like watts output, backlight, weather and dual scan, have hard keys. • Squelch and volume conveniently share the same toggle button. • Unit rotates to remove from the belt clip. • A transmit boost key raises output to 6 watts for calling when radio is set to low watts.
STANDARD HORIZON
ULTIMATE CONTROL. BETTER BOATING.
7KH LQGXVWU\ȇV UVW VLQJOH HQJLQH FRPSDWLEOH MR\VWLFN 7KDWȇV RQH RI WKH PDQ\ LQQRYDWLRQV LQ WKH QHZ +HOP 0DVWHU® (;ȃ<DPDKDȇV DZDUG ZLQQLQJ ERDW FRQWURO V\VWHP 7KLV H[FLWLQJ IXQFWLRQDOLW\ PDNHV WKH ZDWHU HYHQ PRUH HQMR\DEOH ZLWK IHDWXUHV LQFOXGLQJ • New 'LJLWDO (OHFWULF 6WHHULQJ* ȏ $XWRSLORW ZLWK New +HDGLQJ &RXUVH +ROG • New 3DWWHUQ 6WHHU =LJ =DJ 6SLUDO 0RGHV • New 7UDFN 3RLQW ZLWK :D\SRLQW $UULYDO • New 'ULIW3RLQW® 7UDFN $QG WKDWȇV MXVW IRU VWDUWHUV <RXȇOO EH DPD]HG DW ZKDW \RXU VLQJOH HQJLQH ERDW FDQ GR ZLWK WKH QHZ +HOP 0DVWHU (; Experience it for yourself at a Yamaha Outboard dealer or visit YamahaOutboards.com/HelmMasterEX.
*Except 3.3L F250 DEC and F350A models. Helm Master EX is available for purchase by participating boat builders on select new compatible single, twin, triple and quad Yamaha outboards installed on new boat packages and available for purchase and installation by qualified Yamaha Outboard dealers on select compatible single, twin, triple and quad Yamaha outboard powered boats. REMEMBER to always observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and drive. Dress properly with a USCG-approved personal floatation device and protective gear. © 2021 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. 1-866-894-1626.
#3254
CERTIFIED
TEST
SEAVEE 450Z Whether fishing with live bait or trolling, SeaVee’s 450Z is maximized for angler comfort and efficiency.
S
6 6 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
SeaVee’s 450Z is the result of a spare-no-expense mission to build the ultimate boat for live-bait fishing in all weather. We tested this beast in its natural habitat while kitefishing with live goggle-eyes in 5-foot seas off Miami’s coastline. We wasted no time assembling kites at the fishing grounds thanks to the ready-to-fly kite compartment in the hardtop. Within 10 minutes of stopping, the first sailfish of the day was on. No one will ever accuse the SeaVee 450Z of being underplumbed or lacking in livebait capability. There are twin 40-gallon transom tanks in the corners along with two 40-gallon in-deck livewells. A fifth optional livewell holding 60 gallons can be added in
PHOTO: COURTESY SEAVEE BOATS
C
SCA N ME
PHOTOS: COURTESY SEAVEE BOATS
To see our photo gallery of the SeaVee 450Z, scan this tag or visit boatingmag.com/3254.
the bow, giving it a total capacity that equals four 55-gallon barrels. The system uses adjustable, proportional Groco valves that are programmed to pressurize livewells when traveling above 6 knots to prevent sloshing. When coming off plane, the pressurization abates for more convenient use while fishing. Some tower supports resemble oil refineries with a host of visionblocking, toe-stubbing pipes, but on the 450Z, there are no tubes below the hardtop. Instead, the structure itself provides the support,
anchored by artfully sculpted, one-piece, no-seam ladders that don’t have handrails and instead employ curved recesses behind that fit hands perfectly and give just the right leverage to hoist yourself easily and safely. Heading down, rounded indentations on the narrower section below the hardtop guide feet, sight unseen, into the proper position onto SeaDek-padded steps. Like the 450Z’s hull and deck, the one-piece center console is created by a vacuum-assisted, resin-transfer molding process. A B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 6 7
It takes SeaVee more time to create the 450Z’s console than it takes to build a 29-footer. lounge seat that’s low enough to fit well below the gunwale for passenger security. Great care was given by designer Rob Kaidy to allow this double-stepped Z-hull to run at the same angle of attack no matter the liquid load of the 110-gallon freshwater tank, 48-gallon diesel tank (for the genset), and triple gas tanks that hold 778 gallons. The roomy fishing cockpit can be cleared even further thanks to the electrically actuated retractable cooler/rear-facing bench seat. A rigging station resides above the bench, and there’s a tackle locker that holds 14 Plano Edge-series waterproof boxes. Five fish boxes have a total capacity of 550 gallons, with the large, forward box giving owners the option of adding chiller plates to preserve ice. At the end of the day, we made a quick move toward some diving birds and placed our rigged baits into tuna tubes to keep them lively for the short run. Just as we were about to head for home, one of the portside rods bowed over. We hooked what turned
High Points
out to be a 36-pound blackfin tuna that took several laps around us to help illustrate the ease with which an angler can fight a fish from anywhere on this boat thanks to a level deck, moderate gunwale heights and recessed toe kicks all around. Even when the tuna got close to the stern, the quad Mercs were near enough to the transom—thanks to the lack of an engine well—to guide the fish around. Had it been a big yellowfin, we could have used one of two side doors, which open inward on industrial-strength hinges. A new, integrated fold-down dive ladder eliminates the need to manually attach a boarding ladder. The 450Z displays amazing balance at any speed, and the driver doesn’t have to be a trim wizard to keep it running at a proper attitude. After launch, bumping the trim up about one bar on the indicator put the Z-hull at a perfect angle of attack to make easy work out of the 3- to 4-foot seas during the return trip to Haulover Inlet. Once on plane, our inclinometer never deviated from 4 to 5 degrees no matter the speed. Only when putting the whip to the quad Mercury Racing 450R outboards did we trim up to about three bars to reach its terminal speed of 64.4 mph despite our rigged-for-fishing payload. Shopping? Sea-trial Everglades’ 455cc, a center-console flagship, priced at about $1.7 million with quad Yamaha 425 Offshore outboards. —Alan Jones
6 8 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
X Requires little driver input to run at the
proper attitude. X Standards include a Seakeeper 6 gyrosta-
bilizer and an Onan diesel generator. X Flawless rigging and excellent service access.
Low Points
X Without the backrest cushion in place, you
can whack yourself in the back with the grab rail on the rear-facing cockpit cooler/ bench seat. X AC vents for the second-row seats only
cool crewmembers from the waist down.
· LOA: 45'0" · BEAM: 12'6" · DRAFT (MAX): 2'3" · DISPLACEMENT: 22,000 lb. (dry without engines) · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 22 degrees · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 21'0" · MAX HEADROOM: 6'6" · FUEL CAPACITY: 778 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER: 2,000 · AVALABLE POWER: Quad Mercury 450Rs, quad Yamaha 425s or triple Mercury 600s
Price: $1,258,164 (with test power)
AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :
O U T B OA R D
HOW WE TESTED ENGINES: Quad Mercury Racing 450R DRIVE/PROP: Outboard 5.44 HD/Mercury Enertia ECO 20" x 16" outside, 21" x 16" inside GEAR RATIO: 1.60:1 FUEL LOAD: 350 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 750 lb.
S E AV E E B O A T S
Miami, Florida; 305-759-6419; seaveeboats.com
SPEED
C CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS
EFFICIENCY
OPERATION
knots
mph
gph
naut. mpg
1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500
6.0 8.0 9.7 11.4 15.4 26.9
6.9 9.2 11.2 13.2 17.8 31.0
6.4 11.2 18.8 32.4 46.0 51.2
0.9 0.7 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.5
1.1 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.4 0.6
656.0 497.1 360.9 247.0 234.8 368.4
754.9 572.0 415.3 284.2 270.2 423.9
1 2 3 4 4 5
63 69 72 74 77 83
4000 4500 5000 5500 6000 6100
34.5 41.1 45.2 50.9 54.9 55.9
39.8 47.3 52.1 58.6 63.2 64.4
62.8 78.0 112.8 144.8 170.0 177.2
0.6 0.5 0.4 0.4 0.3 0.3
0.6 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.4 0.4
385.1 368.6 280.8 246.0 226.2 221.1
443.2 424.2 323.1 283.1 260.3 254.5
5 4 4 4 4 4
85 87 89 91 94 95
rpm
MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
stat. mpg
n. mi. range
s. mi. range
angle
sound level
PHOTO: COURTESY SEAVEE BOATS
total of 22 inserts are needed to build in the complexity of this console’s design, and while it only takes an hour to shoot the injection, it takes weeks to set up, cure, and take the mold apart. Its coolest feature is the cabin door that’s opened and closed with the same button. Inside, you’ll find an air-conditioned oasis for catching some z’s or visiting the stand-up head with shower. An electrically actuated high-low teak table descends to form the filler section of the berth. The cabin also comes with a refrigerator and sink. At the helm, the driver sits, stands or leans on the centerline for better visibility and perspective. The two rows of triple captain’s chairs on our test boat give everyone a skipper-worthy throne. Even those in the back row get an AC vent and have great forward vision thanks to the raised seats. At the helm, twin 24-inch Furuno displays anchor the command center, and there’s even a rear-facing screen built into the hardtop so the captain doesn’t have to constantly answer the question, “What’s the depth?” In front of the console is a wide chaise-style
* dz ǫ Ǡ ǭ Ǥ Ǡ ǩ Ǟ Ǡ ΄ ǜ ΄ ǥ Ǫ ǰ ǭ ǩ Ǡ Ǵ ΄ ǡ Ǥ ǧ ǧ Ǡ ǟ ΄ Dz Ǥ ǯ ǣ΄ Ǩ Ǫ Ǩ Ǡ ǩ ǯ Ǯ ΄ ǯ ǣ ǜ ǯ ΄ Ǟ Ǫ ǩ Ǯ ǰ Ǩ Ǡ ΄ Ǵ Ǫ ǰ ΄ Ǥ ǩ ΄ ǜ ΄ ǫ ǧ ǜ Ǟ Ǡ΄
C * * G b < G d G l d b * * l d & ţ
eƋ ƋĘå ÏŅųå Ņü ŅŸƵåĬĬűŸ %ce ĬĜåŸ ± ƴĜŸĜŅĺ ƋʱƋ Æåč±ĺ ƵĜƋĘ ± ÚååŞ ±ŞŞųåÏĜ±ƋĜŅĺ üŅų ĵŅĵåĺƋŸ Ņĺ ƋĘå Ƶ±ƋåųØ ÚųĜƴĜĺč ĜĺĺŅƴ±ƋĜŅĺ ƵĜƋĘŅƚƋ ÏŅĵŞųŅĵĜŸå ƋŅ åĺŸƚųå ƋĘå ŸĵĜĬåŸ Ïųå±ƋåÚ ÆƼ Ņƚų ŞųŅÚƚÏƋŸ ĺåƴåų ŸƋŅŞţ
iǜǭǤǩǠ΄ ǰǟǤǪ΄΄΄|΄΄΄¯ǪDzǠǭǮ΄΄΄|΄΄΄ ǜǞǦǮ΄΄΄|΄΄΄ ǞǞǠǮǮǪǭǤǠǮ
S C AN ME
F
7 0 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
Forty-five years ago, Sea Ray’s Sundancer line birthed a lifestyle and redefined cruising for many boaters. Today the Sundancer 370 Outboard sets a course for an evolving boating segment that may also prove standard-setting. Read on and see if you agree. Now, defining what constitutes a dayboat proves as simple as tying a bowline behind your back one-handed. Center-console fishing boats with extra seats, detuned highperformance boats, bowriders, dual consoles, and boats with various sorts of cabins all claim the title. Some are 50 feet in length overall, and others get trailered behind an SUV. Most boast outboard power, which delivers corrosion resistance; excellent
PHOTO: GARRETT CORTESE
To view a photo gallery of the Sea Ray Sundancer 370 Outboard, scan this tag or visit boatingmag .com/3255.
#3255
C CERTIFIED
TEST
SEA RAY SUNDANCER 370 OUTBOARD
PHOTOS: COURTESY SEA RAY BOATS
A standard-setting cruiser with outboard power.
power-to-weight ratios; quiet, efficient performance; the ability to trim clear of the water; and the latest maneuverability, monitoring and connected technologies. In all, outboards, like the trio of Mercury Verado 300s that powered our test boat, provide an ownership experience that’s exciting, easy and satisfying, all of which is perfect for time-pressed boaters seeking to engage in a broad spectrum of waterborne pursuits. The Sundancer 370’s 50-50 cabin-cockpit accommodations,
especially when considering the Coupe version with its hardtop and glass enclosure ($6,597), make it more than a dayboat. It delivers a dayboat’s promise of entertaining a crowd while simultaneously providing couples or small families true weekend cruising amenities. Maybe we should call it a day cruiser? For now, compare the Sundancer 370 Outboard with the one other outboard-powered coupe possessing a cockpit-expanding foldout beach door and berths for four belowdecks: Cruisers Yachts’ B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 7 1
The first Sea Ray Sundancer model to be introduced was the 240. It debuted in 1975. of five. Visibility is great from the helm. The boat impressed me with its ability to maintain plane at just 15 mph (3,500 rpm, full tabs and full negative engine trim), an important attribute to safety and comfort should you get caught out. While docking, the big props swung by the big Mercs move a lot of water with little throttle. Even without Joystick Piloting, and considering the windage added by the coupe top, dockside control is ensured. You’ll command all this from the starboard-side helm, arrayed thusly to allow for the portside walkway to the bow. Attractive diamond fritting on the sunroof’s glass helps anchor a recurring design theme throughout the Sundancer 370 OB. Enjoy the electric sunroof, complemented by fixed skylights overhead. Notice the diamond pattern on the speaker grilles and the upholstery. With flat-white counter surfaces, dark upholstery, matte-silver switches and more, the helm boasts a mélange of colors and texture, delivering a
rich, architectural look. While you’re at the helm, perhaps with the kids, your partner might be with guests in the expansive bow lounge, with its deep seating and armrests. (Order the teak table and cushions that convert this to a sun pad.) Back aft, your brother-in-law mans the grill. Once at anchor, swing the backrest of the transom seat in the cockpit forward to create an aft-facing lounge. A filler makes it a sun pad. There’s easy water access off both corners of the swim platform, and space here to gather or change the engine oil. These multiple social zones make enjoying your crew—and your crew’s enjoyment—that much better. Let’s not forget the cabin, which sleeps four and impressed this boat tester. There’s more of that designer mojo here, and the woodgrain cabinet bases, teak companionway steps, light-colored cabin sole and bulkhead coverings, and spalike head with shower stall combine for a decor tour de force. Practicality? The forward lounge converts to a double sleeper, and the midcabin’s U-shaped settee also converts to a double berth. The galley counter is broad, perfect for a buffet, and there’s a microwave and fridge. Big hullside windows allow sunlight to flood in. I’d go on, but I’ve run out of space. For a cruiser that doesn’t force you to cram into a small aft cockpit or for a dayboat for weekend getaways in luxury, sea-trial Sea Ray’s Sundancer 370 OB. —Kevin Falvey
7 2 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
High Points
X Bow lounge is luxurious, but also makes line
and anchor handling easier and safer than aboard most 40-footers. X Contrasting colors, textures and materials,
repeating décor themes, and great balance and proportion combine to provide a designer experience when aboard. X With triple outboards, it provides a sporty,
good-handling, quiet and smoke-free ride.
Low Points
X Even with standard twin 16-inch touch-
screen MFDs, we still want a compass. X We wish the double helm seat had two sepa-
rate flip bolsters instead of a full-length one. · LOA: 39'9" · BEAM: 12'0" · DRAFT (MAX): 3'7" · DISPLACEMENT (APPROX.): 25,567 lb. · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 20 degrees · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 10'8"; 12'4" with radar · MAX CABIN HEADROOM: 6'10" · FUEL CAPACITY: 250 gal. · WATER CAPACITY: 46 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER: 900 · AVAILABLE POWER: Triple Mercury Marine Verados (black; white is optional) to 900 hp total
Price: $782,800 (base with test power)
AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :
O U T B OA R D
HOW WE TESTED ENGINES: TRIPLE 300 HP MERCURY VERADOS (BLACK) WITH JOYSTICK PILOTING TEST DRIVE/PROP: OUTBOARD/ENERTIA ECO 16" X 18" 3-BLADE STAINLESS STEEL GEAR RATIO: 1.85:1 FUEL LOAD: 200 GAL. WATER ON BOARD: 30 GAL. CREW WEIGHT: 790 LB. S E A R AY B O A T S
Knoxville, Tennessee; searay.com
SPEED
C CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS
EFFICIENCY
rpm
knots
mph
gph
naut. mpg
1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 5700
5.04 6.78 7.73 9.21 10.69 13.30 19.55 32.76 37.71 41.45 44.75
5.80 7.80 8.90 10.60 12.30 15.30 22.50 37.70 43.40 47.70 51.50
3.80 6.30 10.60 15.90 22.00 29.00 37.30 46.60 58.00 64.90 72.60
1.33 1.08 0.73 0.58 0.49 0.46 0.52 0.70 0.65 0.64 0.62
MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
OPERATION
stat. mpg
n. mi. range
s. mi. range
angle
sound level
1.53 1.24 0.84 0.67 0.56 0.53 0.60 0.81 0.75 0.73 0.71
298 242 164 130 109 103 118 158 146 144 139
343 279 189 150 126 119 136 182 168 165 160
0 0 3 4 5 5 5 4 3 3 3
68 72 74 78 81 84 88 91 92 92 94
PHOTO: COURTESY SEA RAY BOATS
38 GLS (seen advertised for $710,000). This Sundancer 370 OB harnesses the latest in technology from its keel to its helm. The optional Dynamic Running Surface ($3,723) is a trim system, utilizing highly shaped trim tabs that automatically adjust trim and list in response to changing loads, wind direction and course. An optional Seakeeper 3 ($54,123) gyrostabilizer won’t calm rough seas, but it will calm your boat’s roll in rough water. At the dock or waiting for a bridge, or in any close-maneuvering situation, Joystick Piloting eases the task of maintaining control. The helm is equipped with a Digital Dash, which includes two standard 16-inch Simrad NSO Evo3 touchscreen displays. The Sundancer 370 OB also includes CZone digital switching, providing full lighting control and excellent monitoring of ships systems. An optional integrated premium audio system with Fusion Apollo RA770 ($6,077) lets the music play. Running? With the triple 300 Merc V-8s, we raced across the Gulf of Mexico at over 51 mph with full fuel and a crew
S C AN ME
A
As outboards grow in popularity, many builders have capitalized by just hanging such engines on existing hulls. Cobalt took a different route and started with a new hull designed for outboards, and a new interior that takes advantage of every inch of space to create a delightful family runabout, part of the R Series of Cobalts that the builder terms as the “ultimate runabouts.” The facts: At just 2 inches shy of 28 feet in length overall, the boat is designed for all-day outings. There is an enclosed (and quite civilized) head compartment for you-know-why (more later), easily enough seating for an 11-person soccer team, luxurious appointments
7 4 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
PHOTO: COURTESY COBALT BOATS
To see an online photo gallery of the Cobalt R8 Outboard, scan this tag or visit boatingmag .com/3256.
#3256
C CERTIFIED
PHOTOS: COURTESY COBALT BOATS
TEST
(check out the yummy quilted upholstery), and a lot of thoughtful touches, from phone chargers to a removable cooler. More facts: Our R8 test boat boasted twin Yamaha 300s (singles and doubles from Yamaha or Merc to 425 hp are available), and these kicked us along at a top speed of over 64 mph. Chopping the throttles to 43 mph, the R8 gets 1.8 mpg, and it registered a quiet 86 dB(A). Why outboards? They require minimal winterizing, and because the outboards lift entirely clear of the water, the
COBALT R8 OUTBOARD This new runabout takes advantage of outboard power in more ways than one.
R8 proves well-adapted to salt water. You’ll spend most of your time in the cockpit, where flip-back seats grants fore- or aft-viewing from the two settees on each side. I noticed the coamings are high, which not only makes good backrests, but is also a safety feature for kiddies aboard. An optional table mounts for dining. A galley console with sink and grill is available. The skipper’s office is comfy, with the optional bucket seat that moves in every conceivable direction. A bolster allows raised B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 7 5
If you’re serious about wakesurfing, Cobalt makes a Surf version of the R8 with built-in ballast tanks, Volvo Penta Forward Drive and a towing tower. About the head: It has 50 inches of headroom (pun intended) and enough space for a sink, counter, and choice of a portable marine head or electric porcelain toilet. There’s no shower (that’s optional on the stern), but plenty of room to change clothes. In the console, under the helm with its forward hatch, lies a cavernous space that could include a cushion for a kiddie nap. You can’t fault Cobalt on construction, with no wood whatsoever in the hull to rot. Foam coring, fiberglass stringers, 16 layers of hand-laid fiberglass at the keel, Kevlar reinforcing, and impeccable mold work are markers of this builder. Access to systems is also great, with the batteries directly under hatches, neatly loomed and secured wiring, and the fuel tank’s plumbing under another hatch. That fuel tank, by the way, is directly over the center of gravity so that the balance of
the R8 doesn’t change whether you have a full or empty tank. Families need sun protection, and Cobalt offers several choices, including a powder-coated aluminum tower with slide-out aft shade, another that folds flat for trailering (or low bridges), and even a simple Bimini. Underway, the R8 is just plain fun. The SeaStar power-assist steering eases handling, and reduces the turns for low-speed maneuvering or docking while making the response more accurate at higher speeds. Lenco trim tabs have the Auto Glide feature, which automatically compensates for load and power settings. Just set the throttle, and the tabs adjust perfectly. You can override the setting if Aunt Edna decides to change sides, but I slalomed up and down Lake Maitland in central Florida without a hint of cavitation, even in sharp turns. And with a 21-degree deadrise in the hull plus twin full-length strakes, the R8 was soft-riding and well-behaved when I ran across our wake. Shopping? Check Chapparal’s 280 OSX ($224,215 with twin Yamaha 250s). Thoughtfully designed, elegantly outfitted and impeccably built, the Cobalt R8 Outboard lives up to its “ultimate runabout” cachet. This is one that will be fun now and will stay in the family for a long time. —Chris Caswell
7 6 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
High Points
X Stow 5-foot skis under the sole and utilize
the gelcoated stowage under every seat and in cubbyholes. X Hinges on lockers and the engine hatch are
oversize and sturdy; many hatches boast a gas assist. X Deep gutters with rubber gaskets keep
water out of lockers and help muffle engine noise as well.
Low Points
X Unlike comparable craft, there’s no opening
port in the head. X Grab rails for crew using the aft rumble
seat would be appreciated.
· LOA: 27'10" · BEAM: 8'6" · DRAFT (MAX): 2'6" · DISPLACEMENT (APPROX.): 6,500 lb. · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 21 degrees · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: Bimini 5'3"; without tower 8'10" · MAX CABIN HEADROOM: 4'2" · FUEL CAPACITY: 125 gal. · WATER CAPACITY: 10 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER: 700 · AVAILABLE POWER: Single or twin Yamaha or Mercury outboards to 700 hp total
Price: $153,307 (with test power) AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :
O U T B OA R D
HOW WE TESTED ENGINES: Twin Yamaha 300 XCA DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Saltwater Series II 15" x 21" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 80 gal. WATER ON BOARD: 0 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 650 lb. C O B A LT B O AT S
Neodesha, Kansas; 620-325-2653; cobaltboats.com
C CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS
SPEED rpm 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 6000
EFFICIENCY
knots
mph
gph
naut. mpg
5.6 7.3 9.3 12.3 27.3 32.2 37.8 42.9 46.2 51.2 56.0
6.5 8.4 10.7 14.2 31.4 37.1 43.5 49.4 53.2 58.9 64.5
2.7 8.4 7.8 11.3 13.6 17.4 23.9 29.0 34.5 42.2 54.9
2.1 0.9 1.2 1.1 2.0 1.9 1.6 1.5 1.3 1.2 1.0
MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
OPERATION
stat. mpg
n. mi. range
s. mi. range
angle
sound level
2.4 1.0 1.4 1.3 2.3 2.1 1.8 1.7 1.5 1.4 1.2
235.3 97.8 134.1 122.4 225.7 208.4 177.9 166.5 150.7 136.4 114.9
270.8 112.5 154.3 140.9 259.7 239.9 204.8 191.6 173.5 157.0 132.2
0 2 2 4 3 2 3 3 2 2 2
63 72 76 80 80 84 86 88 88 90 92
PHOTO: COURTESY COBALT BOATS
seating to look over the windshield. The dash has plenty of acreage for twin 10-inch Garmin 8610 MFDs above the rows of lighted and labeled push buttons for systems. Even better, the Yamaha Helm Master joystick fell exactly to hand when I wasn’t using the shift and throttle levers. The companion seat offers a flip-flop backrest for either looking forward or joining others around the table, and the two rearmost seats’ backrests can create forwardfacing lounges or rear-facing seating. Despite the outboards, the R8 offers plenty of room to walk back and forth, plus there is the Cobalt patented fold-down swim platform that makes getting in and out of the water easy. The walk-through windshield leads to wraparound seating, which again converts to an expansive sun pad or can be used for meals with an available table. Cobalt earns big points for the huge stowage bins under the seats. The anchor windlass is tucked under a foredeck hatch and, with an all-chain rode, can be run from either forward or at the helm. An oversize water-ski locker (5-plus feet) is in the sole between the consoles.
S C AN ME
T
The Heyday H22 costs thousands less than similar boats, sports fresh aesthetics, and it rides deep and wide on the water. The extra depth means more displacement for bigger waves and wakes, and the extra beam enhances stability when the whole gang is aboard. Offering seating for 14 means the H22 provides room for everyone. Boarding from the 2-foot-2-inch removable swim platform, the new and innovative transformational rear-facing seats and sun pad catch your eye. Slickly engineered, this allows you to reconfigure the cockpit from two rear-facing bucket seats to a flat and spacious sun deck in seconds. And because both seats sit well below the gunwale, it is completely legal for
7 8 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
PHOTO: COURTESY HEYDAY WAKE BOATS
To see an online photo gallery of the Heyday H22, visit boatingmag .com/3257.
#3257
C CERTIFIED
PHOTOS: COURTESY HEYDAY WAKE BOATS
TEST
the crew to enjoy the view from them while underway. Also, the sliding stadium seating allows friends and family to relax for a forward-facing ride, or slide the cushion into the center of the boat for a rear-facing view of the action happening in the wake. In the bow, Heyday created one of the largest playpenstyle seating arrangements for a boat this size. With the ability to reconfigure the area to have a walk-through aisle or to close off the area completely with the cushion-backed windscreen,
HEYDAY H22 This affordable, good-looking boat delivers great all-around watersports performance.
Heyday delivers ample configuration choices to relax and enjoy the action. Throughout the H22, two-tone Gatorstep decking provides traction, comfort and durability while color-matching the vinyl seating. Elegant stitching and attention to detail give you the look of luxury without sacrificing toughness. At the helm, a clear and uncluttered dash provides quick access to all of your immediate operational needs. It is highlighted B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 7 9
A corrosion-resistant coastal version of the MerCruiser T6200 is available for an additional $1,155. all shapes and sizes out of the way. On top of the Force Tower, you’ll have the option of attaching your GoPro camera to the tow hitch, giving you a great mount for handsfree filming. Surf tow knobs on the inner corners of the tower provide different options for avid surfing enthusiasts. From the underside of the tower, you’ll notice a projector shining the Heyday logo down onto the cockpit sole. This fun feature, coupled with the many interior, docking and underwater lighting options, ensures that the H22 remains visible and stylish at all hours of the day and night. Keeping the audio awesome, this boat is equipped with six Rockford Fosgate 6.5inch speakers. With audio controls at the helm and an optional control at the swim platform ($240), you can tailor your music no matter where you are relaxing. With the optional Audio Boost ($3,930), Rockford Fosgate tower speakers, 10-inch subwoofer and amplifier, your tunes will play with crystal clarity while riding or surfing. A 370 hp 6.2L MerCruiser T6200 V-8 Tow Sports V-drive powers the Heyday’s
High Points
fun. The stock ballast of 2,950 pounds in four undersole tanks (rear starboard, rear port, bow starboard and bow port) took seven minutes to fill. For wakeboarding, at 22 mph with ballast full plus 415 pounds of crew and the trim tab up, the wake was clean and large but not overly intimidating. Both sides offered a good transition face, with not much lip at the top. This suits beginner to advanced riders. For surfing, we set the H22 at 12 mph and utilized the “surf left/surf right” presets with the same 415 pounds of crew weight and the trim tab in the up position. The surf wave was long with considerable amounts of push. The large pocket will allow surfers of all levels to find the sweet spot and stay in it with ease. Heyday has stripped down the extra frills and built a great wakeboat that is meant to be functional instead of flashy. The H22 will absolutely be one of the better price-point wakeboats on the market, which is what it is designed to be. If there were engine upgrades and ballast upgrades available, this boat could be just as good or better than the other pricepoint boat brands. But with a price tag that keeps this boat $15,000 to $25,000 less than the other brands, we doubt there will be much complaining. —Mark Heger
8 0 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
X Affordable without being cheap—quite a feat! X Configurable aft cockpit is super cool. X Wireless phone charging, intuitive touch-
screen controls and sweet touches like the logo projector.
Low Points
X Cool, innovative aft seating reduces
stowage and space for additional ballast bags or lead. X Only one engine option.
· LOA: 22'4" · BEAM: 8'6" · DRAFT (MAX): 2'8" · DISPLACEMENT (APPROX.): 5,188 lb. · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 6 degrees · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 5'7" · FUEL CAPACITY: 40 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER: 370 · AVAILABLE POWER: Single 370 hp 6.2L MerCruiser T6200 HO ECT V-8 Tow Sports
Price: $75,868 (base with test power)
AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :
V- D R I V E
HOW WE TESTED ENGINE: 370 HP 6.2L MERCRUISER T6200 HO ECT V-8 DRIVE/PROP: V-DRIVE/151/2" X 15" NIBRAL GEAR RATIO: 1.95:1 FUEL LOAD: 40 GAL. WATER ON BOARD: 0 GAL. CREW WEIGHT: 415 LB. H E Y D AY WA K E B O A T S
Knoxville, Tennessee; heydaywakeboats.com
C CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS
SPEED
EFFICIENCY
rpm
knots
mph
gph
naut. mpg
1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000
3.82 5.47 6.78 8.86 17.29 21.72 24.94 27.37 30.85
4.40 6.30 7.80 10.20 19.90 25.00 28.70 31.50 35.50
1.72 2.77 4.20 5.90 7.13 9.30 11.90 16.50 21.30
2.22 1.98 1.61 1.50 2.43 2.34 2.10 1.66 1.45
MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
OPERATION
stat. mpg
n. mi. range
s. mi. range
angle
sound level
2.56 2.27 1.86 1.73 2.79 2.69 2.41 1.91 1.67
80 71 58 54 87 84 75 60 52
92 82 67 62 100 97 87 69 60
0 2 3 5 6 3 2 2 2
77 81 86 87 85 93 94 94 95
PHOTO: COURTESY HEYDAY WAKE BOATS
by a 9-inch Simrad touchscreen with custom Heyday software, which creates an intuitive experience for controlling the speed, filling and emptying the ballast, and choosing “surf left” or “surf right” with the tap of your finger. The wireless charging station comes standard and will keep your phones running at full power without the need to keep track of any pesky cables. Without any compartments next to the engine, there isn’t room for ballast bags. Any extra ballast or lead will need to go under the seat cushions or on the cockpit sole. But with no optional engine upgrades, loading this boat with much more additional ballast might be a moot point. The standard Force tower folds up or down with the help of gas-assist struts, making tower stowage or deployment a one-person job. Add on the PTM billeted aluminum swiveling board racks ($1,215) with three position locking options, and you’ll have the ability to keep boards of
#3258
High Points
X Patented Air-Step hull delivers confident
ride and handling. X Sea-view terrace expands the cockpit
size, and is rugged and easy to deploy. X Unique layout affords owners the ability
to pursue many activities with little compromise.
Low Points
X Rod holder drains to the bilge. X Some aft cabin trim was ill-fitted aboard
BENETEAU Flyer 9 Sundeck retaining excellent maneuverability and visibility. The Flyer 9 Sundeck is inspired by deck boats, with a bow that’s almost as broad as the boat’s maximum beam. Beneteau used the extra space to provide a wide walkway forward that terminates in an expansive
To see a photo gallery of the Beneteau Flyer 9 Sundeck, visit boatingmag.com/3258.
tending to the twin 250 hp Mercury V-8 FourStroke outboards, and soaked in the experience. Excellent visibility from the elevated helm station made it easy to keep a weather eye. Depending upon who you ask, we might have been going too fast for comfort given the conditions. But we were going faster and with more comfort than I thought we’d be. The Flyer 9 Sundeck stays on plane at 13 knots, with engines and tabs on full negative trim, while still
MORE ONLINE
sun pad complete with a Bimini for shade—oh, man. There’s great access to the anchor, and room to deploy the hook or tend to lines. Aft, the self-bailing cockpit boasts a big L-lounge, served by a sleek wood table that converts to another sun lounge ($2,670). There are acres of stowage under the deck, a sink, a refrigerator, an optional cooktop, great access to the transom’s twin swim platforms, and the portside cockpit folds down, creating a sea-view terrace.
8 2 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
Toughest Competitor
X There are no boats with fore-and-aft sun
pads, a cabin that sleeps four, an optional T-top, and an expanding cockpit for less than $200,000 available. One might shop the Four Winns HD8, a hybrid deck boat, which starts at $102,795.
This overhangs the water and expands the size of the cockpit for entertaining—or just because. Oh, man. Belowdecks, there are berths for four; two sleep forward and two in the aft cabin. The enclosed head is stylish. The sole is laminated oak, and the cabin is trimmed in Alpi Mat Walnut. The galley houses a sink, fridge and microwave. Oh, man. Back topside, I’d order the stainless-steel T-top ($8,060) with the Sunworker cockpit shade extension. Put on some kayak or SUP racks, and head out on the water. Oh, man. —Kevin Falvey
· LOA: 29'10" · BEAM: 9'9" · DRAFT (MAX): 2'11" · DISPLACEMENT (APPROX.): 7,883 lb. · TRANSOM DEADRISE: NA · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 6'11"/8'10" · MAX CABIN HEADROOM: 6'1" · FUEL CAPACITY: 140 gal. · WATER CAPACITY: 26 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER: 500 · AVAILABLE POWER: Single or twin Mercury (plus Honda, Suzuki or Yamaha in Europe) outboards to 500 hp total
Price: $168,520 (with test power); $148,250 (base) AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :
O U T B OA R D HOW WE TESTED ENGINES: Twin 250 hp Mercury V-8 FourStrokes DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Revolution Four 143/4" x 19" 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.85:1 FUEL LOAD: 70 gal. WATER ON BOARD: 13 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 600 lb. BENETEAU AMERICA
Annapolis, Maryland; 401-990-0270; beneteau.com
SPEED
C CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS
EFFICIENCY
rpm
knots
mph
gph
naut. mpg
1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 5700
4.52 6.08 7.39 7.65 14.34 21.29 27.55 33.46 37.54 42.23 44.88
5.20 7.00 8.50 8.80 16.50 24.50 31.70 38.50 43.20 48.60 51.65
2.80 4.60 7.20 10.30 13.00 15.70 21.00 26.50 36.00 40.20 48.00
1.61 1.32 1.03 0.74 1.10 1.36 1.31 1.26 1.04 1.05 0.94
MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
OPERATION
stat. mpg
n. mi. range
s. mi. range
angle
sound level
1.86 1.52 1.18 0.85 1.27 1.56 1.51 1.45 1.20 1.21 1.08
203 167 129 94 139 171 165 159 131 132 118
234 192 149 108 160 197 190 183 151 152 136
0 2 0 4 5 4 3 3 3 2 2
66 71 72 77 82 84 86 87 88 90 92
PHOTOS: COURTESY BENETEAU AMERICA
Running at 20 knots through the tight-spaced 2-footers on Chesapeake Bay, I told my crew to hold on and eased the throttle forward, first to 25 knots, then to 28 knots. At 30 knots, I let the boat find its own groove, Auto Trim and Active Speed Control
our prototype.
T
TESTS #3259
High Points
X Classic styling instills a deep pride of
ownership. X Immaculate fit-and-finish and rigging
throughout. X Cockpit offers plenty of room; transom
door offers access to the swim platform.
Low Points
X We’d like see a boarding-ladder option
for the portside door. X Recessing or rounding off the bow rails
SCOUT 277 LXF
X The Everglades 295cc ($335,388 base
to one 10-inch Garmin 8610xsv ($2,703), a 12-inch Garmin 8612xsv ($4,846) or two 10-inch Garmin 8610xsv displays ($8,206). A Yeti 65 cooler nestles under the workstation, and a 100-quart cooler is under the forward console seating. Forward seating with
To see an online photo gallery of the Scout 277 LXF, visit boatingmag.com/3259.
transom, with another four in the deluxe leaning-post backrest, as well as five on the hardtop. A pair of insulated, in-sole fish boxes flank the aft cockpit. An inward-opening portside door lets you pull aboard big fish, and it will also find use as a boarding door. A three-sided windshield surrounds the helm, and a pair of helm seats feature flip-up bolsters and armrests. Power steering and trim tabs are standard, as is a 9-inch Garmin 943xsv display, but you can upgrade
Toughest Competitor
MORE ONLINE
removable backrests and storage underneath holds strong appeal to nonanglers. They’ll also like the retractable swim ladder on a fullwidth swim platform, the fold-down stern seating, and the convenience afforded by the self-contained porcelain head in the center console. Notable options include upgraded upholstery-color packages, underwater lights, outriggers, and a removable teak bow table, as well as additional Garmin electronics, a high-zoot audio system, and a choice of
8 4 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
with twin Yamaha F300s) is about a foot longer and 9 inches wider, but its styling takes a harder edge, and the bow has far less flare. It too offers transom and side doors.
three upgraded leaning-post modules. Powered by twin Mercury 225 hp V-6 outboards, the 277 LXF proves fun to pilot. Our test boat popped on plane, and accelerated from zero to 30 mph in about 8 seconds. It achieved an exhilarating top speed of more than 58 mph. Power steering offers agile handling, and Scout’s NuV3 variable-deadrise hull and 100 percent hand-laid construction result in one of the smoothest rides of any boat in this size category. The flaring bow garners admiring looks but, more importantly, it tosses seas aside to keep the interior dry. —Jim Hendricks
· LOA: 27'9" · BEAM: 9'0" · DRAFT: 1'7" · DISPLACEMENT: 5,642 lb. (without power) · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 22 degrees · MAX HEADROOM: 5'8" · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 8'4" · FUEL CAPACITY: 164 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER: 450 · AVAILABLE POWER: Twin Mercury or Yamaha outboards to 450 and 400 hp total, respectively
Price: $217,320 (as tested with twin white Mercury 225 hp V-6 FourStroke outboards)
AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :
O U T B OA R D HOW WE TESTED ENGINE: Twin Mercury 225 hp V-6 FourStrokes DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Mercury Enertia 13.6" x 21" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.85:1 FUEL LOAD: 82 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 380 lb. S C O U T B O AT S
Summerville, South Carolina; 843-821-0068; scoutboats.com
SPEED
C CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS
EFFICIENCY
rpm
knots
mph
gph
naut. mpg
1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 6000
3.65 6.34 7.21 9.99 21.90 28.42 34.06 37.71 43.01 47.88 50.49
4.20 7.30 8.30 11.50 25.20 32.70 39.20 43.40 49.50 55.10 58.10
2.20 3.70 5.80 7.50 9.60 13.60 17.20 21.90 31.20 34.80 36.30
1.66 1.71 1.24 1.33 2.28 2.09 1.98 1.72 1.38 1.38 1.39
MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
OPERATION
stat. mpg
n. mi. range
s. mi. range
angle
sound level
1.91 1.97 1.43 1.53 2.63 2.40 2.28 1.98 1.59 1.58 1.60
245 253 184 197 337 308 292 254 203 203 205
282 291 211 226 387 355 336 293 234 234 236
0 3 4 5 3 3 2 2 2 2 2
68 72 76 82 85 87 88 92 94 96 98
PHOTO: COURTESY SCOUT BOATS
Within the 277 LXF, Scout engineers have balanced the needs of hard-driving offshore anglers with those more inclined to recline and enjoy a day cruise. On the fishy side, a livewell resides in the port quarter. Gunwale rod holders adorn the sides and
would help prevent snagged fishing lines and cast nets.
WELCOME BACK TO ANNAPOLIS UNITED STATES POWERBOAT SHOW OCTOBER 7-10, 2021 CITY DOCK, ANNAPOLIS, MD
SHOW UPDATES + TICKETS: AnnapolisBoatShows.com
#3260
High Points
X Drop-dead-gorgeous styling will turn
heads at every ramp, gas dock and raft-up. X Eye-catching upholstery colors and
designs coupled with high-quality stitching and vinyl make Checkmate interiors exceptional in quality and appearance. X Race-worthy rigging and setup ensure a
neat-as-a-pin appearance when it’s time to show off or perform maintenance.
CHECKMATE Pulsare 2400 CD provide shelter, and deliver thrills. A few 2400s have been built with 400 and 450R power, providing speeds into the 80 to 90 mph range. With the 300R, we planed in 4 seconds and hit 30 mph in just over 6 seconds. That’s quick. Notably, at 50 mph, the engine sipped 12.2 gph,
To see an online photo gallery of the Checkmate Pulsare 2400 CD, visit boatingmag.com/3260.
housed in a Sport Master gear case, we hit 73.1 mph with two people aboard and 40 gallons of fuel. Available also in a bowrider (BRX) version, the 2400 fills the bill for performancehungry outboarders longing for speed and some amenities. Checkmate updated the design to perform with modern power. The result is a 22-degree-deadrise hull with a narrow V-shaped pad and multiple lifting strakes. While there are faster hulls, the Checkmate does it all with aplomb. It will carry a family load, pull watersports,
MORE ONLINE
netting 4.1 mpg for 233 miles of range—a weekend’s worth. The Pulsare handles precisely and quickly. Rougher waters—heavy wind chop and boat wakes—really let this boat shine. The ride was smooth and predictable. Built like an offshore racer, the Pulsare is handlaid with composite core, a stringer grid, a transom and a liner. The small cabin proves plush and features a deep headliner and comfy cushions. In the cockpit, twin buckets form-fit to the captain and mate, and a wide
8 6 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
X Low 70s is certainly a good turn of
speed, but we’d hoped to see 80 mph.
Toughest Competitor
X Velocity’s 230SC ($127,000 with a
Mercury Racing 300R) is a foot shorter but a close competitor. As equipped, it weighs 2,000 pounds, has a 50-gallon fuel cell, and tops out at 81 mph.
aft bench accommodates a few more crew. SeaDek nonskid is custom-cut with Checkmate logos, and makes for a clean look and easy cleanup. The dash panel features a cluster of chrome-bezeled Livorsi electronic instruments with traditional hotrod-style analog dials. Twin Livorsi throttle and shift sticks control the big Merc. Ours featured an optional ski tow, Lenco electric trim tabs, and an Atlas hydraulic setback jack plate. Rigging under the dash, below the splashwell, and at the transom was executed with a clean, racelike touch—another of many reasons to like this boat. —John Tiger
· LOA: 24'0" · BEAM: 8'3" · DRAFT: 1'6" · DISPLACEMENT: 2,000 lb. · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 22 degrees · MAX HEADROOM: 4'8" · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 4'11" · FUEL CAPACITY: 63 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER: 400 · AVAILABLE POWER: Single Mercury or Mercury Racing outboards to 400 hp
Price: $126,610 (as tested)
AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :
O U T B OA R D HOW WE TESTED ENGINE: Single Mercury Racing 300R DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/151/4" x 27" Mercury Racing Bravo One FS, 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 40 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 500 lb. C H E C K M AT E P O W E R B O AT S
Washington, North Carolina; 252-220-5119; checkmatepowerboat.com
SPEED
C CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS
rpm 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 6000 6300
knots 5.3 6.2 7.4 11.9 21.8 28.7 34.8 43.6 50.4 56.0 59.2 63.5
EFFICIENCY mph 6.2 7.2 8.5 13.8 25.1 33.0 40.1 50.2 58.1 64.4 68.1 73.1
gph 1.8 3.1 5.0 6.0 7.6 8.7 10.4 12.2 19.4 23.3 25.0 28.5
OPERATION
naut. mpg
stat. mpg
n. mi. range
s. mi. range
angle
sound level
3.0 2.0 1.5 2.0 2.9 3.3 3.3 3.6 2.6 2.4 2.4 2.2
3.4 2.3 1.7 2.3 3.3 3.8 3.9 4.1 3.0 2.8 2.7 2.6
168.3 113.6 83.8 112.9 162.4 186.9 189.7 202.5 147.4 136.2 134.2 126.3
193.7 130.8 96.4 129.9 186.9 215.1 218.3 233.1 169.7 156.7 154.5 145.3
0 2 3 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1
68 70 75 79 85 85 86 75 88 89 94 95
MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
PHOTOS: COURTESY CHECKMATE POWERBOATS
Lamenting the loss of smaller performance outboard boats? Try running Checkmate’s Pulsare 2400 CD (Closed Deck). With a Mercury Racing 300R outboard spinning a 27-inchpitch four-blade Bravo One FS stainless-steel wheel through 1.75-to-1 gearing
Low Points
Print Subscribers Get FREE iPad access! ®
OUTBOARD VERSUS STERNDRIVE
P.
54
TROLLINGMOTOR ROUNDUP
C
C E R T I F I E D B O AT T E S T S
BACK COVE 340 / CHAPARRAL 21 SSi / PURSUIT DC 326 WORLD CAT 400DC-X / BLACKFIN 332 CC / MALIBU 22 LSV NORTH COAST 280CC / BRIG NAVIGATOR 610
OCTOBER 2019
VOLUME 92 NUMBER 8
Download the app today for instant access! To subscribe go to:
boatingmag.com/subscribe Apple, the Apple Logo, and iTunes are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.
MH
MOTORHEAD By Kevin Falvey
MERCURY RACING 300R OUTBOARD This engine features new updates and an integrated tie-bar bracket. 300R in a variety of configurations, from twin installations on performance cats to quad center-console applications (the SeaVee 450Z we review on page 66 was one of the boats I ran) to a hopped-up bay-boat rig, complete with jack plates. Some baseline specs are in order. The 300R is a 4.6-liter V-8 rated for a maximum rpm of 5,800 to 6,400, an expanded range for optimizing propping options and maximizing top speed. Its short-runner intake manifold and high-lift intake camshaft combine to produce quick acceleration. To squeeze more power from less fuel, naturally aspirated Mercury Racing V-8 outboards feature Advanced Range Optimization (ARO), a closed-loop fuelcontrol system that utilizes electronic sensors to precisely adjust the fuel mixture for the best-possible efficiency at all speeds. There are three gearcase options, applications for which are detailed below. Pricing? There are more than two dozen iterations of this engine, depending upon gear-case rotation, shaft length, midsection, and whether you opt for the tie-bar bracket or not. The prices for the 300R range from $26,130 to $37,265. A bunch of the new features come as a result of the Advanced Midsection (AMS) that is now part of the 300R. The AMS affords 5 inches more setback, dampens vibration
8 8 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
FIT TO BE TIED Twin-engine, high-performance applications are the target segment for 300R with the integrated tie-bar bracket.
better and, in conjunction with the VesselView display system, gives you switchable exhaust; make your outboard sound sewing-machine quiet or activate the function and hear the throaty V-8 rumble and growl. The integrated rear tie-bar bracket looks good and is built robustly. It goes way beyond
Master gear case, and is targeted squarely at the tournament bass-boat segment. The HD CMS comes with solid engine mounts, forged transom brackets, and a singlestage trim pump that gets mounted inside the boat. The HD CMS gear-case version, according to Miller, is aimed
SCA N ME Scan this tag or visit boatingmag.com/mercuryracing-300r-outboard to see a Mercury Racing professional describe the 300R outboard.
any kind of bolt-on appearance. It is specifically aimed at owners of performance catamarans. Certain HD CMS models are available with the optional rear tie-bar mounting plates and side steering brackets for highspeed applications when using the Sport Master gear case. Boaters can also choose from two more midsection offerings from Mercury Racing: the Conventional Midsection (CMS) and the Heavy Duty (HD) CMS. The CMS comes with a 20-inch driveshaft housing and the Torque
at “single-engine ultra-fast performance boats, like singleengine catamarans or singleengine V-bottoms, where you are running well up into the 90s or even past 100 mph.” In reviewing this 300R, it becomes apparent that Mercury Racing does not take a one-size-fits-all approach. “We are a custom builder, and the products we make are specifically designed to key in on certain boat applications,” Miller declares. If outboard performance powers your boating passion, check out Mercury Racing’s 300R.
PHOTOS: COURTESY MERCURY MARINE
Mercury Racing’s 300R outboard is now available with an Advanced Midsection (AMS) and an integrated rear tie-bar bracket, and boasts features of the 450R lauded by performance boaters. It is still available with a standard midsection and standard rear tie-bar bracket. Steve Miller, director of customer experience at Mercury Racing, filled me in on the latest during a demo event at which I also got to run the
Luxury
IS
O N
TH E
HOR IZON
THE MUST-SEA EVENT OF 2021 OCTOBER 27-31 FLIBS.COM
9 0 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
BUYING IN A BOOM MARKET INDUSTRY INSIDERS OFFER TIPS FOR FINDING AND BUYING A BOAT OR OUTBOARD IN A SELLER’S MARKET. BY JIM HENDRICKS ILLUSTRATIONS BY TIM BOWER
“Good luck.”
That was the response from a Massachusetts boat dealer this past summer when I asked for tips on finding a new boat in today’s market. And he’s not alone. That kind of response is typical from many dealers these days. From California to the Carolinas and Michigan to Mississippi, new-boat inventories range from limited to nonexistent, and demand is at an all-time high. Blame COVID-19 for it all. The pandemic ignited a boat-buying frenzy, fueled by an influx of new American boaters. Restricted from travel, vacations, dining out, kids summer camps and more, COVID-19-weary throngs of families have sought new ways to recreate, have fun and stay safe. For many, buying a boat has proven to be the best way to achieve all of those goals. According to the Chicago-based National Marine Manufacturers Association, traditional powerboat sales reached a 13-year high in 2020. More than 310,000 new powerboats were sold, levels the recreational boat market has not seen since before the Great Recession in 2008. Data from Lending Tree reinforces the NMMA’s findings. “Interest in boat purchases doubled between 2019 and 2020,” says the internet-based
lending firm. “The number of consumers completing boat-purchase query forms rose 104 percent year over year.” At the same time, COVID-19-triggered shortages have plagued boat and outboard builders. Manufacturing—both domestic and overseas— of essential supplies such as resin, windshields, microprocessors, upholstery foam, propellers and other key components slowed to a crawl at the onset of the pandemic. So, when demand unexpectedly surged about two to three months into the crisis, boatbuilders quickly ran short of materials, hampering the completion of boats and leaving factories struggling to keep pace. Suppliers have worked hard to rev up manufacturing, but slowdowns wrought by wicked winter weather, snarled shipping and overwhelmed ports of entry have bogged down the supply chain. The entire boating industry is playing catch-up. The compounding effects of low supply and high demand mean that even if you can find a boat or motor, there are few bargains, even as we prepare for a post-pandemic world. “If you can find a new boat to buy, that in itself is a deal,” says Sean Hickey, east coast sales manager for Everglades Boats. It’s a classic seller’s market. But there are still ways to find boats and motors, and to negotiate deals, according to advice we gleaned from industry insiders. Here are 10 tips for buying in a boom market.
B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 9 1
STAY FLEXIBLE
With inventories low and waiting lists for new boats as long as 18 months, shoppers might consider a model that’s more readily available, or at least available within a shorter time frame, marine-industry veteran Kim Slocum says. Slocum currently sells Jeanneau boat brands for Elkhart, Indiana-based Walker Marine, but was also with Rinker Boats for 47 years, where he ascended to president and part owner of the company. Slocum points to the example of the Jeanneau NC cabincruiser line. “For instance, while you might be eyeing a new 35-foot Jeanneau NC 1095, the wait could be shorter for a new
LOCAL ADVANTAGE You can also look for new boats at dealers outside your region. However, once you find one, it might be better to work through a local dealer, Hickey says. “Everglades feels strongly that the best experience will be with a dealer in your area,” he explains. “Our dealers will work with other dealers outside their territories to get the boat transferred, if it is available.” This helps ensure that service after
26-foot NC 895,” he says. In this case, you have to make the decision as to whether you want a smaller boat sooner or a bigger model later. The same principle applies to new outboard motors, says Gus Blakely, executive vice president of sales and service for Suzuki Marine. “Consider an alternative horsepower category,” he explains. “For instance, you might be thinking about a 200 hp outboard, but there’s high demand for that power rating. “Think instead about settling for a less-popular and morereadily available 175 that will get you ready to go and out on the water sooner.”
the sale is convenient and closer for the buyer. “You can buy from a dealer outside your region, but we have found that the boat-buying and service experience is just not the same as when you work with the local dealer,” Hickey says.
BE PATIENT There’s little a dealer can do to speed up delivery when there’s little to no inventory, Hickey explains. “Our company itself
9 2 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
often needs to borrow back boats from buyers just to have Everglades models at boat shows,” he reveals. If you have your heart set on a specific model equipped the way you want, you will need to be patient. Most Everglades dealer orders are out to the fall of 2022, and if you order the new Everglades 455 from a dealer today, you can expect delivery in January 2023. That has not seemed to deter buyers. “Everglades sold 13 of the $1.7-million-dollar boat in
CONSIDER USED
Used boats represent a different avenue, albeit a more risky purchase versus a new boat. While the boating boom has increased demand for used boats, these vessels already exist, so you don’t have to wait for the boat to be built and delivered. The key is finding the right used boat, says Slocum, who also buys— then refurbishes and sells—previously owned boats from private owners. Slocum focuses mainly on boats from Rinker, a brand he knows inside and out from his decades with the company. He and his wife, Suzy, currently own a Rinker 380 cruiser, powered by a Volvo Penta 8.1-liter sterndrive, that the two of them refurbished.
the first month after its introduction,” Hickey reports. “In my 11 years with Everglades, I’ve never seen anything like this.” When it comes to outboard engines, dealer and boatbuilder orders for today’s popular engines are about 150 days out (as of this writing), according to Suzuki Marine’s Blakely. Delays in deliveries of outboards by all major brands represent a key obstacle to building boats more quickly, especially given the growing popularity of
today’s outboard engines. “The most important thing is patience,” Blakely says. “Like many manufacturers, Suzuki is doing its best to fill the supply chain as quickly as possible.” Blakely offers a key piece of advice. “Order your new boat or outboard now, even if you don’t need it right away but anticipate a purchase in the future,” he says. This ensures that you will be in line to get your boat or motor when inventory is available and before
they sell out. “For a new motor, try to order about five to six months ahead of schedule,” Blakely advises.
MOVE DECISIVELY “Be quick but don’t hurry.” Those words from legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden also apply to buying a boat in a boom market. “If you see a new boat at a dealership within the next year that you really want, grab it,” Hickey says.
B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 9 3
“Don’t hold out in the expectation of a special deal because those don’t exist right now,” he adds. “If you hesitate, someone else will buy the boat, and you will have wasted the opportunity,” Hickey says. “That’s just the way it is in this market.” The same applies to the used-boat market, Slocum points out. “If you find a boat you’re interested in, visit the seller as soon as possible,” he advises. “In this market, time is of the essence. If the boat’s in good condition, it will sell quickly.”
TARGETING TRADE-INS Some dealers and factory-direct sales outlets accept trade-ins on new boat sales, and this opens up a market to explore if you’re interested in a used boat. This could put you in a boat more quickly and for less money than a buying a new boat. “Ask your dealer about available trade-ins as new boats are delivered,” Hickey explains. Trade-ins are not sitting around for long, he says. It’s a good idea to work in advance with a dealership to let them know you’re interested
LOOK FAR AND WIDE Don’t be afraid to venture outside your geographic comfort zone if you’re serious about buying a used boat from a private party. Expanding your search radius can increase the chances of finding a good previously owned boat. Slocum often finds used boats in states far removed from his home in northern Indiana. He has hunted as far as Alabama and New York. Most of his searches begin with the internet. “There are so many online sources, it’s mind-boggling,” he says. He and his wife like to peruse sites such as Boat Trader and Craigslist, but explore others, such as boat-owner forums and
Facebook groups dedicated to particular boat brands. “I typically look for boats located within 500 miles of us,” Slocum says. “But I will look farther out if I don’t find anything that close.” Once he completes a deal, Slocum has a triple-axle trailer and diesel truck to transport the boat if necessary.
9 4 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
so you’re one of the first to be called if a trade-in becomes available. Dealers and factory-direct sales staff might also be aware of pending tradeins and when they might be available, providing you with advance notice of a purchase opportunity.
DUE DILIGENCE Slocum emphasizes due diligence when shopping on the used-boat market. While there are many things to keep in mind, his first step is to personally inspect the
boat before buying. “If you’re not familiar with the brand, take along a friend or mechanic who is,” Slocum advises. He has developed an inspection routine and a list of key questions to ask the current owner before deciding whether the boat is worth buying. To learn more, visit boatingmag.com/used-boatbuying-secrets.
DON’T SELL UNTIL… There is a huge temptation to sell your
current boat now. The boom market has inflated prices, meaning you can get more money than you ever thought possible. A case in point: An acquaintance recently bought a new, custom 30-foot Nordic deck boat with a MerCruiser 600 SCI XR high-performance sterndrive. As he took delivery seven months after ordering the boat, the shop told him that he could sell it immediately for $30,000 more than he paid. While that might result in a financial windfall, he would be unable to take
delivery of the same new model anytime soon, putting him on the sidelines for the next season and possibly the one after that. Is the trade-off worth it? For readers of Boating, probably not. Wasting months or even years of their lives waiting for a boat to arrive runs against the tide of the boat-owning mindset. So, move ahead with purchasing plans, but also keep your current boat so you don’t miss a moment of making memories on the water that will endure for generations.
CASH IS KING
Private-party sellers might be more likely to negotiate on price than dealers or factory-direct sales staff, Slocum points out. The seller’s openness to negotiation depends on a number of factors, including the buyer’s bargaining tools. One of the most effective is cash in hand. Cash is an attractive offer, and it usually knocks dollars off the asking price, Slocum has discovered. It also secures the boat immediately. “In most cases, you can’t wait for the bank to approve a loan for a used boat from a private party in today’s market,” he says. “The boat will sell to someone else while
you’re waiting for the bank to OK a loan.” The same rule does not apply when buying a boat from a dealership. “Cash is not an advantage, as dealers aren’t discounting any boats,” Hickey says. “In fact, many dealers discourage cash sales, as financing represents an additional revenue stream for most.”
B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 9 5
CRUISE CONTROL 9 6 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
D
Despite the trademark high winds of Chicago, the afternoon summer sun beat down on my face while out on Lake Michigan.
Squinting while wearing sunglasses, I fixed my eyes on the buoys as I navigated a 75-foot yacht. During my day of instruction with Capt. Kelly Gordon, she allowed me to take the wheel of the largest vessel I’d ever run in nine years of boating.
Over the last year or so, there has been quite an influx of boaters
joining the community. This influx includes seasoned participants and novices, popping up in major port cities like Newport, Rhode Island; Miami, Florida; and Chicago, where Gordon mans a privately owned 75-foot Sunseeker. Gordon often catches these new boat owners trying to tackle the cerulean waters of Lake Michigan, as well as the locks. While a female yacht captain might be a rare sight on the water, Gordon has seen the best and worst of the influx, and too often, she witnesses couples having arguments, detracting from what should be a pleasurable experience. I know this all too well, and early on, my time on the water with my fiancé was quite the test. He had more experience than me, and it took quite some time for him to relinquish control and allow me to be his first mate. Gordon, who splits time between Chicago and Fort Lauderdale, would love to see more women on the water, and she believes a good starting point is for couples to learn how to work together. Boating is the perfect opportunity to build trust with your partner, and it offers a proud collaborative effort that can help build a strong bond. It’s also a sexy pastime. A good place to start, Gordon believes, is including your partner in the basics. “This season, a lot of boats have been sold, typically anywhere from a 30- to 50-foot range. I also see quite a few couples rent-
There’s a lot to learn from a day with a professional yacht captain. BY TONYA RUSSELL, PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN LINN
ing boats, and there is a lot of yelling,” she tells me. “I can’t stress enough how important communication is for safety and success on the water.”
B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 9 7
STARTING POINTS
I
get my first taste of how a good captain operates by watching Gordon and her first mate, Gianna Mesi. They communicate with few words and have developed a rhythm that works for them. From the moment I step on the Sunseeker, I see this. While Gordon takes me into the engine compartment, Mesi is outside checking the fenders and disconnecting the water line. I wonder if this process was always this smooth, or if I’m watching the result of years of cooperation. Launching can go more smoothly when tasks are delegated. Gordon likes to start her departure with fluid checks. “For your pre-departure engineering checks, you will check on the fluids in the main engines, as well as the antifreeze level, and the oil in the genset.” Gordon also checks the oil in the transmissions, then she glances at all of the hose clamps to make sure there are no leaks and that nothing looks loose. She also checks the throughhull fittings for cracks, water stains, and any other signs that they need to be replaced. Last, she looks for clogged strainers. If they are clogged, then the basket can be pulled out and cleaned. Once these tasks are complete and she’s ready to launch, she switches power from the shore power to the generator. On the Sunseeker, that is as easy as pushing a button on a screen because it has a smart genset. “The genset senses when you start the generator, and it’ll switch from shore power to generator power,” Gordon explains. “Once you hear the air kick back on, the generators have taken over.” After I pushed the “power off” button, I listened as the air conditioners shut down, then whizzed back on.
9 8 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
For a boat without a smart genset, Gordon recommends turning off heavier loads, like the air conditioning. Then you’d disconnect shore power and fire up the generator.
LAUNCHING TASKS • Check engine oil, antifreeze, transmission and genset, if applicable. • Check hose clamps for looseness or drips. • Make sure strainers aren’t clogged. • Switch from shore power to generator power, if applicable. • File a float plan to let others know where you’ll be. • Do a safety review with any guests.
A good idea for couples would be for one to handle some of the checks, like pulling the dipsticks in the engine, and for one to be on the dock, ready to untie lines, pull up fenders, and disconnect the shore-power cords. With one partner on the dock, there are more eyes to ensure a smooth departure. Aboard this boat, Mesi handles the dockside tasks, working in sync with her captain and calling out commands that they both understand. “She and I have been working together for about three years now, so we’re getting to the point where she can just read my body language, look at my face, and she’ll know what it is I want, and I think ultimately that’s the goal to get to as a couple. There’s never any yelling or getting loud.” Before officially launching, the crew should all do a safety check before departure. That includes making sure there is a life vest for every passenger. Gordon also files a float plan prior to leaving, then checks in with that person upon return.
COOL RUNNINGS
A
s we embarked, I was reminded that time on the water is for pleasure. Gordon and I set out from the marina at the flybridge, which is where she has the best view of her surroundings. Once we were out of Burnham Harbor, Mesi joined us. After all of the times they’ve been out on Lake Michigan, they were still impressed by the miles of blue reminiscent of the Bahamas. I was thinking, All of this beauty in the middle of the US? As we encountered some boat traffic, Gordon informed me that boats with limited maneuverability have the right of way. “Unfortunately, too many boaters do not understand the right of way. So, I drive defensively.” Aggressive driving is just as bad, if not worse, on the water. A second set of eyes helps, and the pair watched for other vessels getting too close. “When you are bigger, you must understand that you can cause more harm to others,” Gordon adds. “Being aware of your surroundings and being patient with novice boaters is so important.” Still, captains can’t ignore the increase in accidents over the last year, which also coincides with the influx of new boaters. “Again, I want to emphasize the importance of communication,” Gordon says. “The more hectic it gets, the calmer I am, and that’s kind of a place you want to be yourself.” One task is adjusting your radar, but also not being overly reliant on it. “Remember that radar doesn’t pick up every target, so
you always have to maintain a proper lookout,” Gordon warns. “My eyeballs are constantly scanning the chart plotter and radar. I look at my dash, and then I look at what’s in front of me, and I just continually go through that cycle. I think a lot of folks get so reliant on the technology that they actually forget to look out the windshield in front of them.” She recommends adjusting the radar in case of rain or choppy conditions, as well as high-traffic days. This is because it can also protect you in case a smaller vessel, like a sailboat, is without radar and doesn’t show up on your screen. If you have the capability, use a split screen for a close-up radar and one farther out. Fiberglass boats are also sometimes not picked up.
CRUISING TASKS • Adjust radar settings and scan it frequently. • Don’t rely solely on your radar, your chart plotter or other electronics for what’s happening on the water. • Keep your eyes scanning the water at all times.
STOPPING TIME
A
fter a short cruise on the stunning waters of lower Lake Michigan, Gordon decided to demonstrate another crucial yet overlooked boating skill: Properly dropping anchor. Even with today’s modern technology found on most large boats, specifically a windlass, anchoring is not as simple as finding a good spot and hitting a button. The anchoring process starts by pointing your bow into the wind before dropping. The boat will probably blow backward, and facing the wind will ensure that it holds. Gordon notices many boaters making one major mistake. “I see people having trouble dragging because they don’t put out enough
A LOT OF FOLKS GET SO RELIANT ON THE TECHNOLOGY THAT THEY ACTUALLY FORGET TO LOOK OUT THE WINDSHIELD IN FRONT OF THEM. B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 9 9
chain,” she says. “Proper scope for anchoring is 7-to-1. So you want seven times the chain out as what the water depth is now, and in heavier winds, you’re going to need a little more chain.” For example, if the boat is in 10 feet of water, you’d need about 70 feet of anchor line. Gordon’s anchor lessons came from a senior captain. Another piece of advice he gave her: In a crowded anchorage, to avoid too much swing, choose a 5-to-1 ratio. “You can never go wrong with 7-to-1, though,” she explains. After she drops anchor, she pulls back just a touch so that the line isn’t too long. For temporary anchorage for swimming, she still recommends 7-to-1. In a storm or rough seas, you might have to expand your scope to hold. If anyone will be getting into the water, you must have flags alerting other boats. For manual anchors, Gordon recommends the captain assign a mate to drop and set it if possible so that the captain can maintain control of the boat. Don’t kill the engines until you’re sure the anchor is set securely.
SET IT RIGHT • Try to anchor upwind if at all possible. • Use a 7-to-1 anchor scope under typical circumstances, and make sure there’s enough chain to prevent anchor drag.
LOCKED AND LOADED
G
ordon also gave us a lesson on navigating channel locks, something I’ve never encountered back home in southern New Jersey and Philadelphia. But there’s one at the entrance of the Chicago River, and it offered an opportunity to show a scenario encountered by many boaters around the country. Before we entered the lock, Mesi prepared us by giving everyone a life jacket, which must be worn as you lock-through. There’s an order for who gets to lock-through first. “Commercial traffic has priority, then government traffic, then we’re last since we’re recreational,” Gordon explains. She pointed to the traffic light and said that yellow allows priority traffic. We’d have to wait for the green to enter. When arriving, a sweet border collie greeted us and gave us the signal to enter. Well, the dog’s job was actually to chase away birds, but she worked overtime at the lock operator’s side. In locks where it is necessary to tie off while they raise and lower the water levels, make sure you have proper fenders and your own dock lines just in case. It’s also recommended to have some long-handled boat hooks to retrieve your lines after the water raises or lowers.
COMMERCIAL TRAFFIC HAS PRIORITY, THEN GOVERNMENT TRAFFIC, THEN WE’RE LAST SINCE WE’RE RECREATIONAL.
1 0 0 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
LOCKING TIPS • Life jackets are mandatory. • Commercial and government vessels have priority, and recreational boaters go last. • Bring fenders, and have your own lines and boat hooks. • Abide the lockmaster’s guidance.
BRINGING IT HOME
A
fter an incredible day on the water, Gordon let us know it was time to head home. As we made our way back to the marina, she mentioned that sometimes the end of the day is actually the toughest. Docking can be the ultimate test for couples or new boaters, especially if they are taking out friends who provide distractions. We’ve all been there. Everyone is loud and the music is bumping, so hypervigilance is necessary to keep everyone safe and to avoid any damage to your boat. Developing a docking strategy is ideal. Gordon says the best thing one can do is practice. “Find someone who is seasoned, who you’re comfortable with, and maybe even ask for lessons. There’s nothing wrong with that. There are plenty of captains who offer that service,” she advises.
Gordon encourages preparing for docking prior to takeoff. Figuring out where you’ll keep your fenders and lines will make tying up much more seamless. Some prefer to leave at least one line behind to use to catch the boat in high winds. As Gordon slowly pulled into the marina, then close to the slip, Mesi began calling out distances from the dock to the swim platform and to the port side, as well as the pilings separating the Sunseeker from its neighbor on the starboard side. “Three feet!” Mesi yells. Then, “One foot!” I’d never thought to shout distances or anything other than “You’re too close!” or “You’re going to hit the dock!” (Don’t judge me.) But hearing their communication enlightened me. Gordon adjusts the throttles and pays attention to which direction the marina flags are blowing. “You really need to check and see what your winds and currents are doing so that you know how to compensate,” she says. “When I come in, I always look for a flag to see in what direction I’m going to get blown.” Many people cut off their boats when pulling into the slip, but Gordon strongly recommends keeping the boat running until you are tied up. “Otherwise, you won’t have any control over the boat,” she says. After Gordon flawlessly settled the boat into its slip, Mesi worked quickly to secure it with the lines and fenders. And with that, we were home safe and sound. Personally, I learned much from my day that I’m going to take to my home waters. If nothing else, on the water it’s vital to remember: Teamwork is dreamwork.
DOCKING TASKS • Practice before taking your boat out for the first time. • Develop a system with your partner that works and that you both understand. • Compensate for wind direction and current.
B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 1 0 1
E
ELECTRONICS By Jim Hendricks
For decades, anglers relied on fish finders with an inherent time delay. Today, however, a new breed of fish finder from brands such as Garmin and Lowrance eliminates the time delay, depicting the underwater world in real time. The latest to join this revolution is Humminbird.
Forward scans vertically where pointed.
+
FINE-TUNE SENSITIVITY Adjusting the sensitivity (aka gain) of a fish finder is a lost art because many fish finders today boast automatic functions that grant almost hands-off operation. However, you can often improve the view. “You can almost always
Down widely scans the water and bottom.
get a better fish finder reading by tweaking the sensitivity settings, even when it’s in auto mode,” says Steve Bradburn, fisheries and specialties product manager for Furuno USA marine electronics. Sensitivity has nothing to do with power, but rather serves to filter the returns like the squelch function on a VHF. As you turn up the sensitivity, it filters fewer
1 0 2 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
echoes. As you turn down the sensitivity, it filters more of the returns. Bradburn offers a method for fine-tuning sensitivity when auto mode is off. Start by turning off the clutter mode and turning up the sensitivity to the maximum (which will likely black out the screen), then slowly, gradually turn it down to clean up the display but still see targets, including fish
(7- through 15-inch models) Mega SI or Mega DI. You can adjust Mega Live Imaging to one of three modes by manually twisting the transducer. Choose between Down, Forward or Landscape. It provides clarity throughout the entire view, with no gaps in coverage. Maximum range is 150 feet. It scans whichever way you turn the trolling motor. The images that emerge are mind-blowing. Bait schools, gamefish and even your lure zoom across the screen. On some occasions, you can even watch a fish strike your lure. The Mega Live Imaging on the MFD touchscreen also lets you mark and save waypoints to return to the spot later. Mega Live Imaging won the Best Electronics category at the 2021 ICAST fishing-tackle industry trade show held in Orlando, Florida, in July. $1,499 for the transducer package; humminbird.com
Landscape scans horizontally where pointed.
and the bottom. The idea is to reach a happy medium between too much and too little sensitivity. “You might want to repeat this process whenever the water depth or target species changes,” Bradburn advises. Adjustments can also be made in auto mode, but the starting point is different, says David DeVos, senior regional sales manager for
Garmin. “Auto gain works really well,” he points out. “But it can be tweaked.” Start with the sensitivity level preset in the auto mode, then slightly increase or decrease gain to see if the reading improves. “A little bit [of adjustment] goes a long way in auto mode,” DeVos says. “Ultimately, the best way to learn how to adjust sensitivity is to get out on your boat and use it.”
PHOTOS: COURTESY HUMMINBIRD (4)
HUMMINBIRD MEGA LIVE IMAGING
Humminbird’s Mega Live Imaging delivers clarity that’s reminiscent of medical ultrasounds. With fish and structure appearing in real time, anglers can watch fish onscreen as they move about. Mega Live Imaging employs an optional transducer that mounts to the shaft of a trolling motor. You connect the supplied Ethernet and power cable to a compatible Humminbird multifunction display with no need for a black-box module. No transom-mount transducer is currently available for Mega Live Imaging, though transommount and trolling-motor transducers are available for the Garmin Panoptix LiveScope and Lowrance ActiveTarget live-imaging systems. Mega Live Imaging is compatible with all Humminbird Apex and Solix MFD models, as well as Humminbird’s Helix G3N (8- through 12-inch models) and Helix G4N
The Perfect boat Storage Solution
INCLUDES Trailer Platform
HD-7500BLX MRP $5,370 *FREE SHIPPING
Save hundreds per month on costly boat storage fees by keeping your boat safe and secure inside your own garage. Featuring adjustable platforms that accommodate boats, cars, trucks and more, the HD-75000BLX by BendPak® is the most cost-effective way to dry dock your boat. Call now to order 1-800-253-2363 or visit bendpak.com
1-800-253-2363 • bendpak.com *Free shipping on BendPak products to the 48 contiguous United States. © 2021 BendPak Inc. BendPak is a registered trademark.
Hit the high seas with a low-rate boat loan
Recreational Use Fixed APRs* as low as
3.99
4.99
%
$50,000 +
%
$25,000 – $49,999
Rates accurate as of 08/09/2021. See website for current rates and terms, as well as financing for Live-Aboards and loan amounts below $25,000.
New
•
Used
•
Refinance
When the sea beckons, answer the call with an affordable marine loan from Essex Credit. Whether refinancing an existing loan or financing a new or used boat for live-aboard, full- or part-time charter, or pleasure use, our dedicated and experienced consultants can help you with your dream vessel. With our simple online application, applying for a loan couldn’t be easier. So visit our website or call 866-377-3948 (TTY: 800-659-5495) today to take advantage of the open water, and our low, fixed APR*.
Apply online at EssexCredit.com/boating
*Estimated APR (Annual Percentage Rate) based on 5 year loan term; individual rate may vary based on loan amount, loan term, vehicle use, model year and type of boat. Subject to consumer loan program requirements and credit approval. Rates and terms are subject to change based on market conditions and borrower eligibility. Certain fees, closing costs, and restrictions may apply. APR applied to the loan is the APR in effect on the date the application is received and is valid for 60 days. Minimum loan amount for pleasure use is $10,000 in all states (excluding Washington, DC). Boat must be 2001 model year or newer; for boat model year 2001 to 2010, add .25% to above rates. Add .50% to above rates for: Houseboats or High performance boats. Reduce .25% from above rates for 100% Electric motor boats. Each rate adjuster applies independently; multiple rate adjusters may apply for a single request. Maximum loan term based on loan amount. Maximum loan amount is calculated using an advance percentage determined by FICO score and multiplied by NADA guide base wholesale value with add-ons; if not listed in NADA guide, then multiplied by 80% of BUC low retail value. Other rates with different loan terms are available. Example of a refinance recreational use boat loan: A $65,399 loan (includes a $399 processing fee) for 5 years with a fixed interest rate of 3.74% would have an APR of 3.99% and 60 monthly payments of $1,196.78. This is only an example and the APR and processing fee may differ for your specific transaction. Loans with longer terms may have higher rates. Essex Credit is a division of Bank of the West. © 2021 Bank of the West | NMLS ID # 19116 | Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender
Doing business in South Dakota as Bank of the West California.
MARKETPLACE
The Future of Bunk Covers isn’t Coming...
It’s Already Here!
The Gatorbak XP difference: · Three year warranty · Rated for use with all hulls · Stops damage from wet, dirty bunks · Soft, Durable, Xtreme Performance
15% off any order and free shipping on orders over $100. Just enter code
BOATMAG2021 when ordering
custom lengths available
BoatLinesAndDockTies.com
ASTROslip The Ultimate Coiled Bunk Covers 1 Piece Total Coverage Extremely Durable Makes Trailering and Launch a Breeze Easy to Install No Water or Salt Retention No Splices
™
Dealer Inquiries Welcome
www.astroplastics.com
14101 Industrial Park Blvd. N.E. « Covington, GA 30014 Toll Free: 1-800-334-4474 « 770-786-2703 B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | 1 0 5
By Charles Plueddeman
N O R T H T O A L AS K A ! Where the men are strong and the mosquitoes voracious.
I
f you want to go on a big boating adventure, you might consider a trip to Alaska, a place where everything is big. And every place is far away. And the easiest way to get to any faraway place is often by boat, or with an airplane that lands on water, which is sort of a boat. The Yukon River bisects Alaska, roughly east to west, and serves as a highway to backcountry settlements, which are supplied with fuel, lumber, beer and other The goal was to find essentials via barge. The Yukon is also the agates and mastodon pathway to adventure, as my good friend Chuck Larson discovered this past summer fossils, both of which are when he joined an expedition led by Uncle scoured from the river Fun, my brother-in-law. I’ve heard the stories of previous outings led by Uncle Fun, banks each spring by ice. so I know better, but Chuck could not resist the call of the wild, and so he flew to Alaska with my family. The rest of us went fishing and hiking after I dropped off Chuck at Uncle Fun’s place near Soldotna, where this modern-day Meriwether Lewis was busy hanging a pair of rough-looking Suzuki 175 outboards on the transom of Tsunami III, a 26-foot aluminum johnboat with a number of fresh welds. The boat has a house around the helm and an open foredeck that can hold four 55-gallon drums of fuel and all the gear for a long week on the river. And Uncle Fun packs a lot of gear. It’s not exactly glamping, but there are folding chairs in the kit. The four-man team put in at the bridge where the Dalton Highway
crosses the Yukon. The mission: Head downriver several hundred miles to the Nowitna River. When the Nowitna becomes too shallow for the big boat, the team would set up camp and explore farther in Tsunami IV, a smaller tunnel johnboat with a jet outboard that was towed along. The goal was to find agates and mastodon fossils, both of which are scoured from the river banks each spring by ice. Space does not permit me to recount more details of the trip: an encounter with Francie, the owner of the fuel depot in Tanana, who was floating the river in a pink vinyl Flamingo; running hard aground at full throttle on the Nowitna; the unexpected heat wave that rotted much of their provisions; or running out of fuel 10 miles short of Tanana on the return leg. And the mosquitoes. “We needed three drums of fuel and one drum of DEET,” Chuck said. “And I wished I was constipated.” For all that trouble, the boys did not see a single agate. The banks had been picked clean by collectors seen filling 5-gallon pails with the stones. The scenery along the river was monotonous. The droning of the outboards was mind-numbing. The mosquitoes were relentless. Chuck did come home with a mastodon tooth and many great stories to share this winter over a warming libation at the Lake View Inn bar. “Would you like to see my mastodon tooth?” Chuck asked. “I’ve got it outside in my truck.” That’s the perfect North Woods pickup line.
BOATING (ISSN 0006-5374) (USPS 504-810), October 2021, Volume 94, No. 7. ©2021. Boating is published eight times a year (January/February, March, April, May, June/July, August/September, October and November/December) by Bonnier Corp., 480 N. Orlando Ave., Suite 236, Winter Park, FL 32789. Subscription rates for one year (8 issues): $15 in the US, $25 in Canada, $35 for other international. Orders outside the US must be prepaid in US funds. Periodicals postage paid at Winter Park, Florida, and additional mailing offices. Authorized periodicals postage by the Post Office Department, Ottawa, Canada, and for payment in cash. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to BOATING, PO Box 6364, Harlan, IA 51593-1864; BGMcustserv@cdsfulfillment.com; boatingmag.com/ cs. Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement No. 40612608 Canada. Returns to be sent to IMEX Global Solutions, PO Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2 Canada. If the postal service alerts us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within one year.
1 0 6 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1
ILLUSTRATION: TIM BOWER; PHOTO: MABEL PLUEDDEMAN
OFF MY DOCK