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Your time on the water is precious. You return, season after season to make unforgettable memories, fight a few fish, reconnect with friends and re-center yourself. If you count on having this time, you need an outboard you can count on to power it. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why boaters choose Yamaha for the long run. For life. Because reliability starts here.

02.20 BOATINGMAG.COM JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

P.106 ON THE COVER The Regulator 26XO is designed and built to ďŹ sh the skinny water inshore or run offshore to the blue water with equal ability and aplomb. Photo by Bill Doster

BOAT OF THE YEAR

ARE YOU IN GOOD HANDS?

FLYBRIDGE VS. EXPRESS

Here are 12 boat-insurance details every boater needs to ask about before they buy.

We pit two Viking 38s against each other to see which style is best for you.

BY KEVIN FALVEY

BY PETER FREDERIKSEN

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We tested hundreds of boats and selected the one category-buster to win the crown. Who won this year?

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DEPUTY EDITOR PRESENTS

ELECTRONICS AND WEST COAST EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR WATERSPORTS DIRECTOR ART DIRECTOR STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER SENIOR COPY EDITOR

MISS JANUARY/ FEBRUARY

EDITOR-AT-LARGE, FISHING AND MARINE GROUPS CONTRIBUTORS

JEANNETTE H. / REGULATOR 26XO

ILLUSTRATORS GROUP PRODUCTION DIRECTOR ASSOCIATE PRODUCTION DIRECTOR PRODUCTION MANAGER/ARTIST VICE PRESIDENT

Kevin Falvey Pete McDonald Jim Hendricks Sue Whitney Garrett Cortese Ryan Swanson Jon Whittle Nicole Paskowsky Randy Vance Chris Caswell, Dean Travis Clarke, Capt. Vincent Daniello, Bill Doster, Ken Englert, Michael Folkerts, Peter Frederiksen, Joe Friedman, Steve Griffin, Michael “Mick” Hannock, Jeff Hemmel, Forest Johnson, Tom King, Craig Kotilinek, John Linn, Charles Plueddeman, Capt. John N. Raguso, Lenny Rudow, Tom Schlichter, Rick Shackleton, Ed Sherman, Heather Steinberger, John Tiger Jr., Capt. John Page Williams Tim Barker, Tim Bower, Colin Hayes Rina Murray Kelly Weekley Pete Coffin

/ MANAGING DIRECTOR

Glenn Sandridge 407-571-4747; glenn.sandridge@bonniercorp.com PUBLISHER

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BONNIER MEDIA Gregory D. Gatto EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Shawn Bean EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, BOATING Kevin Falvey EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

AND WATERSPORTS GROUP CREATIVE DIRECTOR EDITORIAL OPERATIONS DIRECTOR COPY CHIEF GROUP MARKETING DIRECTOR MARKETING MANAGER DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR DIGITAL CONTENT STRATEGIST DIGITAL CONTENT PRODUCTION AND PRESENTATION DIRECTOR DIGITAL PRODUCER

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Dave Weaver Stephanie Pancratz Cindy Martin Haley Bischof Christopher Cole Mark MacKenzie Jackie Fry Michellina Jones Brian Daugherty

Lars Dahmén Eric Zinczenko Joachim Jaginder Gregory D. Gatto David Ritchie Sean Holzman Elise Contarsy Jonathan Moore David Butler John Graney Perri Dorset Mark Crone Shawn Macey Jeremy Thompson Kim Putman

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EDITORIAL

BA H A M AS B O U N D N o w i s a g r e a t t i m e to c r u i s e to t h e B a h a m a s .

ionisio D’Aguilar, currently a member of Parliament and minister of tourism for the Bahamas, and formerly a foreign consul for that nation as well as a private-sector CEO, possesses the worldly, confident mien and dignified air one would expect of a high-government official. But

when I asked D’Aguilar what message he most wanted to communicate to Boating’s readership and digital audiences, the cloak of stateliness dropped, revealing the earnest mantle of sincerity. “The Bahamas is open for business.” D’Aguilar acknowledged that Abaco, in the northern section of the archipelago nation’s territory, suffered immensely following Hurricane Dorian. Expanding, he noted relief efforts underway and stated that more aid is still needed and welcome. In fact, I caught up to the minister just prior to his attendance at a fundraiser for One Bahamas

That’s good news for boaters, whether they run their own boats across the Gulf Stream to visit the Bahamas or fly in and cruise aboard a chartered boat.

(onebahamasfund.org). But he also emphatically reminded me that the Bahamas is a chain of 500 islands stretching from offshore southeast Florida to near Hispaniola. In short, there remains myriad opportunities to cruise the Bahamas. That’s good news for boaters, whether they run their own boats across the Gulf Stream to visit the islands or fly in and cruise aboard a chartered boat. Even in the hardest-hit areas, boating already shows signs of rebounding. Raul Bermudez, vice president of charter for MarineMax, which operates facilities in the Bahamas, offers an encouraging message for

GIVING SAFELY Scan this tag or visit this link to conﬁdently make relief donations for the Bahamas: samaritans purse.com.

cruising boaters. “The Abaco Beach Resort fuel dock is open. Our MarineMax Vacations operation does not have a set date yet. The resort will be 100 percent operational by April 2020 for a big fishing tournament hosted there,” he said. Bermudez adds that MarineMax will be evaluating the cruising area in January (while you are reading this) to determine when the company’s fleet of power catamarans will be returning for charter duty. Just how bad is it in Abaco? According to Duane Kuck, president of Regal Marine Industries, the devastation is catastrophic. The Kucks have family ties in the Bahamas and have been chartering aircraft to fly in supplies. Kuck recommends Samaritan’s Purse as a relief agency to which one can donate. While Abaco recovers, the Out Islands (Bimini, Eleuthera, Crooked Island, the Exumas and more) are in full swing. Also open are Nassau, Paradise Island and Grand Bahama Island. Air service should be restored by the time of this publication. So, ready your boat and plan your trip—there are plenty of reasons to cruise to the Bahamas right now.

Kevin Falvey, Editor-in-Chief editor@boatingmag.com

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The Sylvan Mirage DLZ Bar is the first of its kind in the industry. With a rear double lounge that transforms into a convenient rear LED-lit bar with four bar stools, Sylvan Marine has the versatility you are looking for in a pontoon. Whether it’s a lady’s day out, family water sport fun, or casting a line toward the catch of the day, Sylvan has floorplans that are perfect for you.

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CAPTAIN’S TEST / NEWS FIRST IMPRESSION GEAR HEAD / 5 THINGS

S C AN ME To read the full interview online, scan this tag or go to boatingmag .com/lou-codega.

Lou Codega

PHOTO: JAY FLEMING

Naval Architect

Lou Codega is a celebrated naval architect perhaps best known for designing smooth-handling, sweet-riding recreational fishing boats for the likes of Regulator Marine, Seeman Composites, Carolina Classic and others. He’s considered one of the best in the business at getting the most out of the deep-V hull form. We caught up with Codega on a recent sea trial of the new Regulator 26XO. —John Page Williams

What is most important in designing fishing boats? I want to make them controllable, predictable, safe and efficient, especially in rough seas. Safety is particularly important when families are involved.

as sharp, so there is more twist in the hull bottom. The transition is key—how much and where to change the shape. Getting it right is a blend of engineering science and experience. And yes, there’s art too, but it’s not like I guess.

What is different about Regulator’s new 26XO? The 26XO is a versatile design, at home in the shallows but still capable in reasonable offshore waters. The transom deadrise is shallower than in Regulator’s offshore hulls (17 degrees vs. 24 degrees), but the bow deadrise is nearly

Are you bored yet, drawing fishing boats? I learn constantly, even when I run a hull I’ve drawn, like my own 23 Offshore Flyaway. I watch a wave coming, how it runs under the hull, how the structure responds, what’s moving, what’s not. It’s kind of a Zen. B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 9 | 2 5

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stainless steel, and also double-walled and vacuumsealed, the Coleman touts a sweat-resistant exterior body and a grippy bottom, so it doesn’t slide around on deck. Flexible interior gripper fins hold cans and bottles in place while you’re keeping your beverage cool on board.

THE CHILL: Who needs cup holders? The Toadfish features a suction cup underneath that keeps it in place and upright while cruising. It’s also double-walled and vacuum-sealed, and has a rubber locking gasket to keep cans and bottles in place.

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No matter how great your cooler is, beverages lose their chill quickly after you pull them from the ice on a hot summer day. Here are three high-end koozies that go way beyond the old foam ones in both style and substance. —Pete McDonald

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STICKY SEAT Try to

It’s boat-show season, and if you’re looking to buy your boat at the boat show nearest you, follow our nine tips to get the best show experience and the best deal. Go to boatingmag .com/nine-best-boat-show-tips or scan this tag!

THE CHILL: Designed to

hold standard 12-ounce cans, this stainless-steel drink holder is doublewalled with vacuum insulation to keep your beverage chilled. The load-and-lock gasket twists to keep the can securely in place. It fits in standard cup holders. THE SPILL: The fit for a 12-ounce can is so snug that it can be hard to remove your empties. PRICE: $24.99; yeti.com

PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) GARRETT CORTESE, COURTESY COLEMAN, COURTESY YETI, COURTESY BOOT DUSSELDORF INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

All New Exclusive

The new 345 Walkaround. All the luxury of a larger yacht.

Now available in a smaller version. The 345 Walkaround is a smaller version of the yacht you’ve dreamed of owning but big on features. With a galley, separate head with shower and large forward berth area, it’s perfectly designed to be an overnight boat. A forward u-shaped settee maximizes space and includes a hi-low table that can become a ﬁller at the touch of a button. For easy access to the water, a dive door features a fold-out ladder while an aft-facing seat beside the helm console and larger seating inspire interaction. A folding rear seat even disappears for more space when you’re battling the ﬁsh. In other words, it’s big on everything you’d want. Neatly packaged in a size you’ve been hoping for. ONE OF A KIND. ONE AT A TIME.

intrepidpowerboats.com • Call us at 954-922-7544 • 805 N.E. Third St., Dania Beach, FL 33004 Visit us at the Miami International Boat Show to experience the 345 Walkaround, February 13-17, 2020

MAKING WAVES /// C A P TA I N ’ S T E S T / N E W S

WINTER BLAHS So, it’s wintertime. Your boat is covered and asleep (northern readers), or resting and waiting for those occasional warm, sunny days when you can ride. What are some things you can do in the meantime? —John Tiger (Answers on page 30)

1. You live in the South, and your season has just slowed. Your boat is not winterized. What should you do to keep it ready? A. Keep a trickle charger on the battery so it’s ready to crank. B. Keep the outboard tilted all the way down so if it does freeze, there’s no water in the gear case to freeze and potentially crack it. C. Trailer it around the block a few times with the cover on. D. A and B E. None of the above 2. What should you do to ensure that no rodents or other pests make a home in your boat in the offseason?

A. Stand guard with a varmint rifle. B. Keep mouse/rodent traps in your boat. C. Put boxes of mothballs in the interior. D. Keep your boat indoors in a controlled environment. E. B, C and D F. None of the above 3. You’ve taken your outboard boat to the river for a short midwinter ride on a nice warm day. After, what is the minimum you should do to keep it OK until your next outing? A. Nothing. It needs no maintenance. B. Drain the lubricant and leave it empty for the winter. C. Run fuel conditioner in the fuel supply

A HELPING HAND FOR THE BAHAMAS Like everyone in the boating community, the people who work for Mercury Marine were saddened to see the devastation wrought by Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas last September. So, Mercury started selling a T-shirt on its website, mercurydock store.com, promising to donate the proﬁts to the Hurricane Dorian relief efforts of the American Red Cross. Customer demand

for the T-shirt grew so fast that Mercury had to print more and extend the sales time into November. “The generosity of everyone who purchased the shirt, many of whom were inspired by some outstanding social media engagement by Mercury’s partners, made this fundraising effort a big success,” says Michelle Dauchy, Mercury Marine’s chief marketing officer. Boatbuilders who use

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Mercury engines, such as Nor-Tech, MTI, Fountain and Outer Limits, posted photos of their employees in the T-shirt to Facebook and Instagram, inspiring their customers to buy the shirt. Sales of the shirt, which features a map of the Bahamas on the front and the Bahamian ﬂag on the back, raised over $15,000 for Hurricane Dorian relief. Our friends in the Bahamas still need our help, so if you didn’t buy the shirt, consider donating to Hurricane Dorian relief at redcross.org. —P.M.

4. You’ve put your boat on the trailer and notice that after a couple of weeks sitting, it’s still dripping water from somewhere along the keel line. What is your next move? A. Nothing. It’s normal for boats to drip water all winter. B. It’s likely you have some hull damage that is allowing water to drip out. Get under the trailer and check out the keel and hull. If you have damage, schedule time with a qualified repair shop for inspection. C. Put a bucket under the hull to catch the drips. D. B and C E. All of the above 5. The offseason is when marinas slow down. Is this a good time to go in and schedule repairs and service? A. No, don’t bother them. They’re in winter mode, which means time off and sleep. B. Yes. This is the best time because they’re slower and welcome offseason work. C. No. Schedule all your repairs for late spring, just as the season hits. You’re sure to get the best response then. D. A or B, depending on the dealer and the locale; best to call and check first.

PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) COURTESY YAMAHA, COURTESY MERCURY MARINE

for 15 minutes, ensuring it gets into the engine. Tilt the outboard/drive all the way down. Cover the boat and engine. D. A and B E. None of the above

DESIGNED FOR THE ONES THAT

REFUSE TO COMPROMISE

32cc: YOUR NEXT BIG CATCH When you’re at the helm of our 32cc Tournament Edition, you’re always poised to reel in your next big catch. With its 60 gal. XL tournament pressurized livewell centered on the transom and three independently macerated and insulated ﬁsh boxes, all that’s missing is some live bait and a few lucky friends.

VIS I T BE LZONA B OATS .CO M FOR M ORE IN FO

MAKING WAVES /// N E W S

FLYING ON THE WATER

C A P TA I N ’S T E ST

(Answers from page 28)

1. D. Trickle charging will help ensure a hot battery when you want to use it. Keeping water out of the engine is a must if there’s any

activates the Newton-Rader propeller mounted on the foil. You can use your thumb to increase or decrease the thrust to control the board’s speed. Choose between a “cruiser wing” foil for more stable riding and a “ﬂyer wing” foil for more advanced

trick riding. The Fliteboard has three body styles—the standard model, the Pro for advanced riders, and the Air. I got the opportunity to test the super-stable Air, which has a body like an inflatable standup paddleboard, perfect for beginners. After a five-minute tutorial, we hit the water, and I was able to stand up on the board and start cruising on the first try. It took about 10 minutes to learn to work the foil by adjusting my weight on my front or back foot. Once I mastered that, I could elevate the board’s body and

2. E. B, C and D are all good ideas to keep pests away.

4. D. B and C are the best answers, and especially C if your boat is kept in the garage.

3. C. This is the best practice to keep your boat ready for your next ride.

5. D. Depending on the local dealer’s practice and when it may or may not

chance of a freeze.

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ride with just the foil’s wings gliding through the water. It was a blast. I rode for an hour and had a ton of fun learning to carve and playing around in small boat wakes. The next step? Big waves and faster speeds. The Fliteboard can reach 28 mph and typically lasts for 90 minutes before it needs recharging. The only drawbacks? The board tends to glide away from you when you fall, and its current price puts it mostly in the domain of yacht owners looking for the next awesome toy. $12,935; ﬂite board.com —Pete McDonald

be open. Some northern dealers close up shop and go south for the winter. But typically, wintertime is best for major work because dealers are generally slower and

welcome these types of jobs. CAPTAIN’S TESTS ONLINE Test your knowledge of boating with more Captain’s Tests at boatingmag.com/ captains-test.

PHOTOS: COURTESY FLITEBOARD

If there’s an activity that involves riding a board on the water, I’m all in. But most board sports are dependent on waves generated by the ocean or boats, and sometimes it’s hard to ﬁnd access to either. So, when I recently got to test-ride the Fliteboard, an electricpowered hydrofoil, I loved that I had all the power I needed to ride under my feet. The Fliteboard is powered by a marine battery embedded in the board’s body, inside a patent-pending waterproof compartment. The rider holds a magnetic remote-control leash that

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FIRST IMPRESSION By Kevin Falvey

INTREPID

345 WALKAROUND A new boat inspired by customer requests for roomy overnight accommodations in a smaller model is Intrepid Powerboats’ 345 Walkaround. “Our goal was to take luxury features from our larger cabin models and create a mini yacht with the 345 Walkaround,” says Ken Clinton, president of Intrepid. With its galley, head with shower, and a large forward berth area, the 345 Walkaround offers comfortable overnight digs. Note that the forward berth converts to a U-shaped settee that includes a high-low table. An ideal dayboat as well, the 345 Walkaround features an aft-facing seat beside the helm console. A hullside

swing-in dive door with folding ladder makes water access easy, and anglers will appreciate the abovedecks corner livewells and a folding rear seat that provides more cockpit space. The 345 Walkaround can be customstyled and rigged with your choice of

twin or triple outboards to 1,350 hp. It runs on Intrepid’s transverse step hull and starts at $390,000. · LOA: 34'6" · BEAM: 10'6" · DRAFT: 24 degrees · DISPLACEMENT: 15,000 lb. · FUEL CAPACITY: 320 gal. I N T R E P I D P O W E R B O AT S

Largo, Florida; 954-922-7544; intrepidboats.com

STINGRAY Stingray Boats’ 225 SE delivers the nimble handling, smooth acceleration and unobstructed transom boaters expect from sterndrive-powered sportboats. The 225 SE features a classic layout that starts with two richly upholstered swiveling seats behind its sleek windshield. Aft, crew relax on a comfortable bench lounge. Stowage is readily available under the gunwales, and oversize drink holders are in place. Forward, V-shaped bow seating works for reclining or facing each other, and offers easy access to the anchor locker. All upholstery consists of stain-resistant nano-blocking vinyl. Aft, the walk-through to the swim platform can be ﬁlled with a standard cushion. With power steering, a stainless-steel ski tow eye, automatic ﬁre-extinguishing

system, and three-year blister-protection plan leading the long standard equipment list, value is ensured. Offered at $61,000 with a 300 hp Volvo Penta Duoprop sterndrive, the 225 SE runs on Stingray’s proprietary Z-Plane

3 2 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0

hull. Look for more details coming soon about the new 225 SE. · LOA: 22'11" · BEAM: 8'4" · DRAFT: 2'9" · DISPLACEMENT: 3,364 lb. · FUEL CAPACITY: 56 gal. S T I N G R AY B O A T S

Hartsville, South Carolina; 843-383-4507; stingrayboats.com

PHOTOS: (FROM TOP ) COURTESY INTREPID POWERBOATS, COURTESY STINGRAY BOATS

225 SE

PREMIUM PERFORMANCE EVEN WITH THE ENGINES OFF Yamaha Boats set the standard for reliability, versatility and craftsmanship. Thanks to Yamaha’s unique engineless design that enhances drivers’ experience both on and off the boat, every model delivers a sense of freedom and conﬁdence that can’t be enjoyed anywhere else. Powered by legendary Yamaha Marine Engines, the 2020 lineup of Yamaha Boats gives owners the ability to do anything they want with their time on the water. # R U N T H E WAT E R

YA M A H A B OAT S . C O M

GH GEAR HEAD

Full-grain leather uppers and suede interior leather make these shoes not just cozy-comfortable but also longwearing and suitable for business wear. Casco Bay shoes are hand-stitched and only get more comfortable with age as the leather is conditioned by wear. So, as you keep those nonmarring, oiled leather-upper shoes tap dancing away on your deck—without leaving a mark—they get ever more comfortable. $89.99; llbean.com

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UPF 50 BUCKET HAT Here is the ideal boating hat. It’s lightweight, fast-drying, floatable and ventilated, with a perfectly adjustable, one-size-fits-all hatband for a comfortable fit. Its UPF 50 rating means it provides the best possible sun protection, and when you don’t need it, roll it and tuck it in a hip pocket. It’ll look just fine the next time you wear it. $29.99; westmarine.com

PHOTOS: COURTESY SUZUKI MARINE (PROP), GARRETT CORTESE (SHOES, HAT)

SLIP-ON SHOES

YETI CROSSROADS BACKPACK 23

A part of the EEL shore-power connector system, Marinco’s P504-30 pigtail adapter lets you connect from a 50-amp dockside receptacle to a 30-amp boatside inlet or power cord. The EEL (Easily Engaged Lock) adapters are fully molded and equipped with Marinco’s unique sealing collar and covers for use in wet locations. UL-approved, the EEL patented jaw-clamp design provides one-handed operation and a secure, waterproof seal, which completely eliminates the need for a locking ring. $159.03; wholesalemarine.com

STAR BRITE PREMIUM RESTORER WAX Star brite’s Premium Restorer Wax is designed to produce professional-grade results, even by ﬁrst-time users. It safely removes medium to heavy oxidation when applied by hand or with a buﬀer. Special polymers and UV inhibitors seal and protect the restored surface from stains and fading. Afterward, an annual application of Star brite Premium Marine Polish will help keep the boat looking its best. $18.99 per 16-ounce bottle; overtons.com

SATPAQ SATELLITE MESSENGER FOR SMARTPHONES HRC ROD RACK HRC’s two-part, vertical wall-mount rod rack accommodates up to six ﬁshing rods to keep them organized. The interlocking design allows you to connect multiple rod-rack sets. Made of durable ABS plastic, the 16-inch-wide rod rack is easy to set up, and the base section secures the rod butts with EVA foam grips. All mounting hardware is included, as is a bonus stainless-steel ﬁsh dehooker. $19.99; amazon.com

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SatPaq from Higher Ground is a clip-on smartphone accessory that enables pay-as-you-go messaging by satellite. It utilizes geostationary satellites for faster and less expensive communication than using low-Earth-orbit satellites. In addition to two-way text messaging, SatPaq allows users to access location-based weather services; on-demand, artiﬁcial-intelligenceguided ﬁrst-aid advice; and 24/7 emergency assistance from anywhere. $249 plus messaging fees; satpaq.com

PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY MARINCO, GARRETT CORTESE (BACKPACK AND WAX), COURTESY SATPAQ, COURTESY HRC

MARINCO EEL PIGTAIL ADAPTER

This streamlined version of the Panga 28 is far more convenient on boats, planes and automobiles. Now with exterior water-bottle pockets that magnetically collapse when empty, the bag is sleek while carrying nearly as much as the Panga 28, with interior bottle holders. A padded, zippered pocket on the top holds pens, earbuds, a ﬂask and meds for easy access. A larger compartment holds a laptop and books, and there’s an additional pocket for 10-inch tablets. $199.99; yeti.com

MAKING WAVES /// 5 T H I N G S

FIVE THINGS YOU DON’T WANT TO DISCOVER UNDER YOUR WINTER SHRINK-WRAP

A bunch of clowns

A family of beavers

That chum brick you forgot about

THINGS

A mutant fungal colony

MORE THAN 5 See more humorous things at boatingmag.com/ five-things.

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ILLUSTRATIONS: COLIN HAYES

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I LEARNED ABOUT BOATING FROM THIS …

A P R E PA R E D B OAT E R I S A SA F E B OAT E R Even old pros can learn from this new boater’s experience.

as I pushed us off and jumped onto the bow, my wife inquired about water in the bilge. In my rush to get us out on the lake, I had neglected to put the transom drain plug in. At this point, we had drifted several yards offshore. I grabbed the paddle and got us back to the ramp, got everyone off the boat, and ran to get the trailer. The boat was so heavy, I could not crank it onto the trailer. Thankfully, several other boaters came to my rescue and pushed the

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.

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ILLUSTRATION: TIM BOWER; PHOTO: COURTESY WEST MARINE

was excited to launch my brand-new 15-foot MFG Skiff at our local lake back in 1984. I thought I had taken every precaution to ensure a safe maiden launch that sunny July morning. My wife had packed a picnic lunch, and both my daughter Deb, age 9, and son Rich, age 5, were thrilled at the thought of catching a few sand bass. I brought life jackets for everyone, fishing licenses for the wife and me, fishing In my rush to get us rods, minnows for bait, plenty fuel for the Mercury 25XD out on the lake, I had of outboard, a weather radio, and neglected to put the an ice chest for the catch. I thought it would be best to transom drain plug in. load the wife, kids and fishing gear in the boat, and back the trailer down the ramp to make it easier to get us on the water fast. Everything went smoothly, and the boat slipped off the trailer with no effort. I attached a line to the front cleat and gently pulled the boat onto a sandy spot adjacent to the ramp so that I could park the van and trailer. Then I returned to the boat, and

boatingsafetymag.com/boatingsafety

SEAMANSHIP

By Jim Hendricks

Judging a propulsion system during a sea trial.

Boat-show season is here. Time to look at new boats and perhaps conduct a sea trial. We’ve written more than once about sea-trialing boats. But let’s focus here on propulsion, one of the most important performance factors. How do you judge the propulsion system? Here are eight facets to consider as you sea-trial a boat. HOLE SHOT Not all powerboats require head-snapping acceleration, but neither should they struggle to climb on plane. You want a crisp hole shot, and this is largely a seat-of-the-pants feel. Measuring the time to plane can be somewhat subjective, depending on when you perceive the hull breaks to plane. Pontoons and step hulls are especially hard to gauge but, generally, it should be less than eight seconds. You’ll know a sluggish hole shot when it occurs, and this often points to an underpowered hull. It only gets worse as you add gear and passengers. An underpowered boat can hurt fuel

efficiency, hamper watersports, and decrease safety in nasty seas. Over-propping—turning propellers with too much pitch—also hurts hole shot. Propping is easier to fix than insufficient power, but either way, you need to know what’s at play before moving ahead with the buying process. TOP-END RPM Once you get a feel for the handling and have a clear runway, ask the dealer if you can brieﬂy peg the throttles to see what kind of rpm you get at wide-open throttle (WOT). The engine(s) should rev up to or near the maximum rpm rating. You might need to trim up the outboard(s) or drive(s) to achieve max revs. This will tell you whether or not the propping is correct. If the rpm falls short, the boat is likely over-propped. If

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TOP-END SPEED While at WOT, check top speed. Velocity might not be all-important to you, but you will have a strong idea of what to expect. If the top speed disappoints, talk to your dealer about ways to boost topend, such as power upgrades,

TIP

at a range of cruising speeds. Most outboards offer the best mpg at 3,500 to 4,000 rpm, gas inboards and sterndrives at 2,500 to 3,000, and diesel inboards at 1,800 to 2,100 rpm. Multiply mpg by fuel capacity to calculate your range. PLANE ON ONE ENGINE If you’re sea-trialing a twin-engine outboard or sterndrive, shut one engine down and tilt it up, then see if the boat will plane on one motor. This will tell you how quickly you’d be able to get home if one engine or drive goes kaput. MINIMUM PLANING SPEED Having a low planing speed can be helpful when bumpy seas force you to slow down. Planing at a lower speed keeps fuel

Take into account the load a boat is carrying, including fuel and passengers, during a sea trial. Remember, a relatively empty boat will display better speed and fuel efﬁciency than when laden with a real-life load.

different props or, with outboards, changing the mounting height of the engines. TROLLING SPEED Do you like to slow-troll for ﬁsh? If so, make sure the engine(s) moves the boat at the low speed you need. If it’s too fast at dead idle, think about another power choice or adding an auxiliary outboard for slow-trolling. FUEL EFFICIENCY Find out what kind of miles per gallon to expect—it’s easy to do with new boats that have digital helm displays. Take note of fuel economy

efficiency higher versus slogging it out at displacement speed. So, try to see how slow you can go and still keep the boat on plane. For V-hulls, planing at 15 knots is good; at 12 knots, consider the performance stellar. PERFORMANCE IN REVERSE Boats often need to back up, usually when docking. See how responsive the boat is in reverse, or if it “crabs” to one side when backing up. This demo will reveal maneuverability quirks and might lead you to consider a joystick control system or bow thruster to make docking easier.

PHOTO: (TOP LEFT) COURTESY SUZUKI

P OW E R POINTERS

the rpm exceeds the max rating (perhaps even bumping the rev limiter), it’s underpropped. Having said this, we’ve tested a number of lightly loaded new boats that rev slightly over the limit at wide-open throttle, and so appear to be underpropped. This is intentional on the boatbuilder’s part. Once the boat is laden with crew, fuel and gear, revs come down to within the rated rpm zone.

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BOAT DOCTOR BOATINGMAG.COM JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Q&A

portant to change oil and fuel filters regularly. Removing an oil filter helps oil flow faster.

BOAT DOCTOR /// Q&A

Q:LOWER-UNIT QUESTION

I run a 2003 130 hp Honda four-stroke with about 500 hours on it. I do most simple maintenance myself (engine and gear oil, plugs, etc.). Bigger stuff I trust to the pros at my local Honda dealer. A couple of years ago, I drained the gear oil at the end of the season, and it came out looking like mustard. I suspected water in the oil and took it to my dealer. He checked it out and could find no leaks, although he had trouble getting the drain plug out. He replaced the bolt/seal on the drain and fill plugs, and filled it with new oil. The next year, same deal. Not wanting to incur the dealer cost again with no appreciable solution, I changed the oil myself to give it another try. This spring, I drained the oil and got the same result—still yellow. Last year, I did not flush the lower unit with clean oil. I just drained and refilled it. This year, I noticed the yellow oil kept draining out even as I filled it with new oil. Is it possible there is just residual water in the lower unit from the initial plug leak that keeps ruining the oil each year? This time, I flushed the lower unit with oil until almost no yellow oil was draining out (it took several quarts) before I filled it. Do you think that will do the trick?

PHOTOS: COURTESY WEST MARINE (2)

Jim Soukup Auburn, New Hampshire

Hi, Jim. If your tech pressure-tested the gear case and found no leaks, and you have new drain plugs and are using new gaskets on the same, you are good to go. You can flush the gear case again, as you have done, using some “sacrificial” gear oil if you like, but otherwise, fill up, torque the drain plug to spec, and go boating.

STOP THE GLUG, GLUG, GLUG Liquid from a jug can splash out and make a mess instead of pouring out smoothly and neatly. To prevent—or at least severely limit—the amount of “burping” that occurs when pouring oil or antifreeze from a jug, pour it with the spout to the top instead of underneath the bottle. Put another way: The spout should be above the level of liquid in the jug when pouring. —Kevin Falvey

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BOAT DOCTOR /// Q & A

TOO COOL?

Doc, this is not a boat question exactly, but how can I keep my dock hose from getting completely tangled? Marc Robertson Lewes, Delaware

DOCK HOSE TANGLES

Hi, Marc. No problem. This is a pet peeve of mine too. Here’s what I do. One, make sure the hose is drained before coiling. Two, always coil from the end on the faucet, not the nozzle end. Three, use big

loops (2 feet in diameter). Four, every now and again, stretch the hose out to full length on the dock, remove the nozzle, and coil it in. With the nozzle off, the twists built into the hose untwist themselves as you coil it up. Happy boat washing!

Q: I own a 2005 Tahoe Q4 powered by a 3-liter MerCruiser sterndrive. The temperature gauge functions normally until it reaches temp, and then it just drops back down below 120 degrees and never comes back. I replaced the sender and checked the wiring for continuity. I replaced the gauge with a new OEM gauge. The problem persists. I have also replaced the thermostat. I have never had an alarm, so I am sure I am not overheating. One thing I need to mention is the sender looked physically the same but had a different number. Any suggestions on where to go next? Robert Carnes Via email

A: Normal operating temperature for your boat’s engine is between 140 and 170 degrees Fahrenheit. Given the troubleshooting steps you have taken, I suggest you replace the thermostat.

TEST STUFF

R H E O S F L OAT I N G S U N G L AS S E S This test started with a minor accident. My son had placed his old sunglasses on his cap as we cruised under cloudy skies, but a gust of wind sent his cap into the drink. The hat floated; the shades sank. The wisdom of cap stowage notwithstanding, Rheos sunglasses will not suffer the same fate. Because, as we confirmed, they float. The new Rheos Coopers style—reminiscent of old-school Wayfarers—that we tested offer ultralight, TPX composite

frame construction and inset pads for the bridge of your nose. The polarized UV400 lenses are shatterproof and grant excellent protection from direct and reflected sunlight. They cut through glare to let you spot fish under the surface. A slight wraparound offers side protection from the sun and wind. The scratch-resistant, anti-fog coating causes water to bead up and roll away. Available in amber, gray and mirrored lens options in gunmetal and tortoise frame colors. $50; rheos.com —Jim Hendricks

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Q: My friend owns a mint 1996 31 Scarab with twin 454 MAG EFI MerCruiser engines. Is there a limit on the rpm when running these engines with the exhaust through the water instead of through the hull? He states that when over 30 mph, it needs to go through the hull. My dealer back then told me I could run the exhaust however I choose at almost any rpm with no damage being done to the engines. A cold drink is on this wager. Thanks. Todd Willets Via email

A: You can run the exhaust however you choose at any rpm with no damage being done to the engine. However, bear in mind that there may be local noise ordinances that limit open-exhaust sound levels (usually 88 to 90 decibels at 50 feet).

PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) COURTESY WEST MARINE, COURTESY RHEOS

A BET

BOAT DOCTOR /// Q & A

A: Your boat will certainly accumulate some growth on its hull bottom over the winter. I recommend applying one coat of an ablative paint, which can then likely be power-washed

completely off come spring. (It may require some hand work to get 100 percent clean.) BACKING PLATES NEEDED? Q: Hi, Doc. I’m installing new rod holders aboard my Grady-White. The deck (gunwale) is cored with ½-inch plywood, which can be seen looking up from above. Do I really need to use backing

plates, or will fender washers suffice to spread the load? A: Plywood does a great job spreading loads. I’d go with fender washers and call it good, and in fact, I know of many in-use installations that have worked just fine like that for many years—and many hours of trolling. If the plate comes with the rod holders, though, you might as well just use it as

U N C OV E R E D BAT T E RY T E R M I N A L

a source for the four washers. If the substrate was just fiberglass or cored with foam, I’d recommend a backing plate.

ASK THE DOCTOR Send questions to Mick with your name and address to: boatdr@boatingmag.com or The Boat Doctor, Boating, 460 N. Orlando Ave., Suite 200, Winter Park, FL 32789.

NAUTICAL

NO-NO

The centered placement of the retaining strap on these ﬂip-up backrest supports allows the metal snap, when unfastened, to contact the exposed positive battery terminal. Changing the snap location is an easy solution, but the real problem is that the positive battery terminal has been left uncovered, which goes against ABYC recommendations. —Jeff Hemmel

PHOTO: PETE MCDONALD

BOTTOM PAINT Q: Dear Boat Doc, I just bought a new (to me) GradyWhite that is three years old. The boat will stay in the water in New Jersey for the winter. The marina has bubblers. My concern is bottom paint. Eventually, the boat will go on a lift at my summer house and won’t need paint. It has no paint on it now, and I’d rather it didn’t, for aesthetic reasons. Must I bottom-paint it? Or will the cold winter waters keep growth at bay? Jim Haskell Philadelphia

INTELLIGENT DESIGN ON EVERY HORIZON GIVE YOUR BOAT A WHOLE NEW DIMENSION OF CONTROL. Optimus 360 gives your boat a whole new dimension of control. By developing the joystick function to be intuitive, Optimus 360 allows you to move your boat not only forward and back, but also sideways, by pushing the joystick to the left, or to the right, and even, rotate on a dime, all with a simple twist of the joystick. dometic.com

BOAT DOCTOR /// W E E K E N D W O R K B O O K

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SKILL LEVEL

3.5 OF 5 Approx. 4 to 5 hours

TOOLS AND SUPPLIES • SeaStar Solutions JP5060R standard jack plate with 6-inch setback ($1,100, fredwarner1.net) • Hoist for removing and reinstalling outboard ($45 per day for 1,500-pound capacity hoist, Sunbelt Rentals) • Outboard lifting eye (if the motor is not already equipped with one) • Stainless-steel engine and jack-plate mounting hardware (as supplied or recommended by the engine manufacturer) • Socket wrench set • Box/open-end wrench set • Torque wrench • Transom stiffener plate for upper transom mounting bolts ($22.95 for T-H Marine TSP2DP, iboats.com) • Marine below-thewaterline sealant, such as 3M 4000 UV • Jigsaw • Crimping tool • Mounting screws for relays

INSTALLING AN OUTBOARD JACK PLATE Jack plates optimize performance and enhance the shallow-water operation of outboard boats. Jack plates perform two key functions. One is setback, which distances an outboard from the boat’s transom, allowing the propeller to run in less-turbulent water. Jack plates also move an outboard up and down to optimize performance and enable a boat to venture into shallower water than it might otherwise. Jack plates find the greatest applications on bass boats, bay boats, tunnel hulls and

some flats skiffs. There are manual jack plates, but the most versatile models allow for vertical adjustments while underway using electric controls at the helm. Brands such as Bob’s Machine Shop, CMC, SeaStar Solutions and T-H Marine offer a wide range of models. For this retrofit installation, we chose a SeaStar standard jack plate, which is rated for up to 300 hp and offers 5.8 inches

of travel via a hydraulic actuator. Featuring corrosion-resistant powder-coated aluminum construction and stainlesssteel hardware, it’s available in setbacks ranging from 4 to 12 inches. We chose one with a setback of 6 inches for our 200 hp outboard on a 21-foot bay boat. With the boat on a trailer, we removed the outboard prior to beginning the installation. —Jim Hendricks

SELECTING THE SETBACK “There is no set rule on setbacks,” says Davor Baros, product manager for SeaStar jack plates. “Boatbuilders test different setbacks to ﬁnd out which one provides the best performance.” Performance can be affected by ﬂotation at the back of the boat because more setback means moving the center of gravity farther back. Also, the location of trim tabs can affect the need for greater setback to get the prop into cleaner water, Baros reveals. This decision is left to

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the builders because they know their hulls the best. “For an aftermarket installation, the best thing to do is look at the setbacks similar boats get from builders,” Baros says. “With all that being said, it seems smaller boats favor bigger setbacks, as it provides the engines with cleaner water and more of a fulcrum for hole shot. For bigger boats, they typically go with 4 inches, as more setback just adds weight without speed or hole-shot advantages.”

ILLUSTRATIONS: TIM BARKER

FINISH TIME

CHECK FOR CLEARANCE

TIP

Starting with the jack plate at its lowest position, verify full steering travel through the entire trim range. At the full down position with steering at center, carefully tilt the engine to verify if interference occurs as the outboard is tilted, paying close attention to the steering cylinder, tie bars, steering hoses, engine rigging and the outboard itself. If interference exists, add a tilt-limiting device or move the motor up to a higher set of mounting holes.

If the setback is 10 inches or the outboard is over 250 hp, six bolts are required for mounting the engine to the jack plate, and the jack plate to the transom. A transom stiffener for the upper bolts is recommended regardless of setback or horsepower.

TIP

ILLUSTRATIONS: TIM BARKER

Many jack-plate brands also offer gauges to indicate outboard height. The optional SeaStar SmartStick/ gauge kit ($290.86, boatstore.com), for example, includes a sensor, wire harness, and 2-inch gauge for the dash.

INSERT ENGINE BOLTS The four 1/2-inch OD outboard manufacturersupplied mounting bolts must be ﬁtted to the jack plate prior to installation. Insert each through the SeaStar-supplied 1/2-inch washers, and then from the transom side of the outboard mounting plate through the bolt holes. Loosely thread on the mounting nuts to prevent the bolts from falling out until you’re ready for step ﬁve. Temporarily connecting the wire harness might also allow you to actuate the jack plate to access the engine mounting holes.

BOLT IT UP Use 1/2-inch OD bolts with locking nuts and washers supplied or approved by the outboard manufacturer. Each bolt must be long enough to pass through the transom and jack-plate mounting surface, and provide enough thread for the washer and locknut. Apply below-the-waterline marine sealant to the mounting holes in the transom and insert the mounting bolts through the transom (from the inside) and through the jack-plate mount. Attach a washer and locknut, and tighten to the recommended torque specs.

INSTALL THE WIRING HARNESS Find a dry, accessible place near the stern of the boat to mount the two relays. Use mounting screws (not supplied) to secure them, using the mounting holes on the upand down-relay brackets. Plug in the wiring harness to the relays and route the other end of the harness to the starting battery. Attach the ring terminal from the circuit breaker to the 12-volt DC-positive post on the starting battery, and the black ring terminal to the negative post. Plug in the actuator connector to the pigtail from the jack plate.

INSTALL THE SWITCH Cut an appropriate rectangular opening in the dash. Route the two switch wires (blue/white and green/ white) from the relay harness to the hole. Connect a 10-amp-fused wire to a 12volt source on the breaker panel and route through the hole. Crimp on female spade connectors to each wire. Connect the 12-volt wire to the center spade on the switch, with the blue/ white lead to the bottom spade and green/white to the top spade. Don’t seat the switch into the dash until after the rest of the installation is complete.

REINSTALL THE OUTBOARD Use a hoist to lift and maneuver the outboard. Select the mounting hole on the outboard bracket that will best suit your boat and application. Move the engine into position. Feed the outboard bolts on the jack plate into the mounting holes on the engine bracket. Fit each bolt with a washer and locknut, and use a torque wrench to tighten to 90 foot-pounds, or the engine manufacturer’s recommended value. Use the rocker switch to test for clearance (see above), then seat the switch on the dash.

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FUEL SYSTEMS CHECKUP Tips from tank to ﬁlter.

A fuel-system problem might leave you stranded on the water, or cause a ﬁre or explosion. Problems caused by poor fuel quality and ethanol-extended (E10 and now E15) fuels increase maintenance and service costs, and even cause engine failure for boaters. Utilize these six tenets to help prevent inconvenience and tragedy. —John Tiger FUEL LINE Replace fuel lines older than three years with EPA-compliant hose. Install new clamps. The innards of older fuel hoses are susceptible to alcohol deterioration.

FILTER The fuel filter should be replaced at least annually. If your rig doesn’t have a waterseparating fuel filter, now’s a good time to add one. Check the filter’s flow rate against your

Difﬁculty pumping fuel to the engine? Position your primer bulb vertically with the arrow pointing straight up.

They can collapse or fall apart, clogging the fuel system and starving the engine of fuel. Newer fuel lines use a tough inner liner, visible by looking into the end of the hose. It makes the hose stiffer and harder to work with, and it’s more expensive. When routing the hose, make bends with a radius of at least 6 inches to prevent ﬂow reduction.

QUICK TI P

engine’s maximum fuel-burn rate. A ﬁlter with a drain bowl is superior. However, the standard spin-on types also work. Placement in the fuel line should be between the tank outlet and the engine inlet. PRIMER BULB Many outboards use primer bulbs, which may be damaged by ethanol fuels. A primer bulb should feel stiff

and reﬁll quickly after squeezing. Primer bulbs have check valves inside that can fail and leave you stranded. Use a factory primer bulb; aftermarket models are typically of lesser quality and won’t ﬂow fuel as well as OEM units. CLAMPS Fuel-line clamps are critical. They prevent fuel leaks and, just as important, air leaks. Air leaks can ruin an engine in no time because the fuelair mixture will become lean and starve the engine for fuel. Use new clamps if the old ones won’t hold, are corroded, or are falling apart. Hose clamps are cheap compared to a damaged engine. Many engine manufacturers use Oetiker (oetiker.com) clamps for fuel-hose connections. These are secure, high-quality clamps; however, they are single-use only, and can be difficult to remove and install

TANK Finally, check the tank carefully for leaks, cracks, and loose mounting. Unless it’s leaking fuel into the bilge, you might not even notice it. I’ve serviced fuel tanks that had all mounting tabs broken or cracked; the only thing keeping the tank in place was the weight of the fuel and the tank-hose connections. While a new tank can be expensive, it’s still a lot cheaper than a boat ﬁre.

fuel-related boat ﬁre. Instead, replace it with a quality anti-siphon valve. Hint: Highquality valves cost three times as much as the cheap ones.

ANTI-SIPHON VALVE These are installed in the outlet fitting from the tank to the engine, usually threaded into the fitting, with a hose nipple on the other end where the fuel line connects. They keep fuel from flowing into the bilge if a fuel-line failure occurs. If you experience valve failure, don’t simply remove the check-valve ball and spring from inside the anti-siphon fitting. It’s against Coast Guard regulations and could get you in trouble insurance-wise, and might cause a

S TA B I L Z E I T The best ﬁx for long-term storage of ethanol fuel is to add a stabilizer. Read the directions on the bottle, and ensure the conditioner mixes thoroughly with the fuel aboard. (If necessary, shake the boat back and forth for a few minutes). At idle speeds, it may take 15 to 20 minutes to circulate the mixture through the fuel system. Ideally, you’d stabilize for storage before making your last run of the season, which ensures proper mixing and full system protection.

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PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) JIM HENDRICKS, JOHN TIGER (4)

without the proper tools. See your local marine-supply store.

Also presenting

Unlock your next adventure with Axopar Whether you are new to boating or an experienced skipper, an Axopar provides an unmatched blend of performance, seakeeping and practicality

xopar is a brand that defines a genre. Now the biggest motorboat builder in the Nordics, since its conception the company has sold over 2,500 boats and changed the way we think about outboardpowered sportsboats. By listening to its customers Axopar builds boats with broad appeal that can be specified to meet a huge range of cruising requirements, be that blasting through the piercing blue waters of the Florida Keys or keeping passengers safe and warm within the Arctic Circle. Those new to life on the water will appreciate the safety and versatility of the deck spaces and

predictable handling, be it when mooring or at higher speeds, while others who have many sea miles under their belts will like the accomplished seakeeping in tough conditions, and the smooth power delivery of the outboard motors. In a world where boaters want to maximise their enjoyment on the water by combining boating with other hobbies like stand-up paddle boarding, fishing or scuba diving, no other range offers such boundless flexibility, meaning that with an Axopar you can unlock a new world of adventure.

The Axopar promise Performance. With unmistakable, head-turning looks, an Axopar’s narrow entry bow will cut through rough seas. The low planing threshold soon has you powering out of the hole giving rapid acceleration and superior cruising and fuel economy when paired with Mercury Marine’s latest lightweight 3.4-litre V6 or 4.6-litre V8 four-stroke engines and digital boat handling aids.

Adventure. From first-time boaters all the way up to the most skilled skippers, Axopar customers are increasingly using their boats as a springboard to enjoy other land or on-water activities. Be it scuba diving, stand-up paddling, wake boarding or mountain biking, Axopar’s unique design allows owners to take all of their sports and adventure equipment with them. The Axopar range enables the spirit of adventure like no other.

Handling. Axopar owners and passengers can look forward to a fundamentally dry, safe and rewarding ride from an air-lubricated, twin-step, low centre of gravity hull with deep-vee configuration for good directional stability and fantastic grip during cornering.

Value. Our quality to price ratio is the core of our offering, allowing you the most ‘bang for your buck’ and an assurance of Nordic reliability. All boats can be enhanced and upgraded with a line of options or modules to suit your budget and adventure needs.

Versatility. For island-hopping adventurers, through to serious water-skiers, scuba divers and sports fishermen, every type of boater will satisfy their needs from one of Axopar’s Open, T-Top, Sun-Top, or Cabin models.

KEY WEST, USA AXOPAR 37 ST AXOPAR OWNERS

Why Key West is best After years of hiring boats, Jack Thomas took the plunge on his Axopar 37 ST, Beyond Amazing

KEY WEST, USA 24.5551° N, 81.7800° W

he pursuit of an adrenaline fix has always been in Jack Thomas’ nature. In a previous life the hit was administered through dirt bike racing and marathons but now, in his 50s, Jack needed a new way to find that buzz. Having settled on an Axopar 37 ST with a pair of 350hp outboards Jack, with his son and a skipper from dealer Nautical Adventures, did the delivery trip from Fort Lauderdale to Key West electing to take the offshore route south through the Atlantic. “We experienced consistent 4ft waves with the occasional 8-footer in the mix,” Jack says.

“It reminded me of my dirt bike days where you try to ride the top of the obstacle; the boat handled the conditions brilliantly.” Beyond Amazing, which Jack believes is the only Axopar in the Keys, fits perfectly with his active lifestyle. “The best optional extra I fitted was a roof rack, which allows me to lash my stand-up paddle board to the T-top and head off to the local islands for a paddle. The outboards and shallow draught gives me access to the amazing world on my doorstep,” he says. Now with his new business – Beyond Amazing Key West – Jack is offering people the chance to experience the stunning cruising grounds with bespoke tours of the reefs, islands and Keys. The 37, with its combination of performance, seakeeping and luxury is the perfect tool for the job.

A launch like no other HELSINKI, FINLAND 60.1699° N, 24.9384° E

nveiling a new range of boats in the depths of a Helsinki winter may not appear the wisest decision but the biggest launch ever held in Finland for a marine brand deserved a special event. Inside a former train factory on the outskirts of the Finnish capital, Axopar showed the world’s press and over 100 of its dealers from around the globe the all-new 37 in a joint showcase with BRABUS Marine and BRABUS. This exclusive event would precede the public unveiling of the new range at Boot Düsseldorf 2020. The occasion gave press and dealers alike the opportunity to crawl over the new boats and get to know them in their own time amongst intimate yet fascinating surroundings and with the world of Axopar and BRABUS Marine at their fingertips. Driver’s boats like these need to be on the water to best demonstrate their talent however, and it was the UNESCO World Heritage site of Suomenlinna island in the archipelago that played host to sea trials so the assembled guests could drive the boats in their natural habitat. The tough

conditions of a Finnish winter provided the ideal environment in which to experience the exceptional handling, seakeeping and efficiency of the new 37. An added bonus was the presence of the BRABUS Shadow 900 pre-production mule, capable of over 60 knots with a pair of 450hp Mercury Marine racing engines. Prior to its global launch at Boot Düsseldorf 2020, press and dealers were given a chance to drive the fastest boat that BRABUS Marine has ever built. We were impressed that so many dealers and journalists had the courage to join us for a Finnish “Sisu” traditional smoke sauna experience at Saunasaari (Sauna Island). Sisu roughly translates as strength of will, perseverance and determination and after a long day out on the water in cold, rainy conditions, the smoke sauna and a (short) swim in the bracing sea was the perfect way to unwind.

Axopar 37 – the market leader reborn Experience the revolution at Boot Düsseldorf 2020

he saying goes that if it ain’t broken don’t fix it so in developing the all-new 37 the Axopar design team was wary not to meddle unnecessarily with such a successful formula. This doesn’t mean there isn’t room for enhancement though, and the new model is the result of a painstaking and rigorous R&D effort that demanded countless engineering hours to make the new 37 even better. This is a boat for the entire world, available in three distinct styles: the 37 S, 37 ST and 37 XC. The open Spyder offers an unparalleled connection to the environment while the Sun-Top model, with its extended hardtop and sunroof, offers the perfect balance of exposure and protection. The fully enclosed XC (Cross Cabin) is the all-weather performer, offering a protected wheelhouse with total shelter one minute and, thanks to a pair of sliding doors and a sunroof, the proper open boat sensation the next. The range runs on a vastly improved hull that despite

being the same weight as the previous model is far more efficient and delivers a softer, more compliant ride with a significantly reduced time to plane. In combination with Mercury Marine’s latest range of outboard engines, fuel economy improvements are considerable, with cruising range improved by an additional 75 miles compared to its predecessor and a 35% increase in cruising speed at 3,500rpm, up from 22 knots to 29 knots. The driving experience has always been at the heart of Axopar products and this boat is even more driver-focused than the model it replaces. The helm’s ergonomics and practicality are outstanding meaning the skipper will always feel in control whether they are coming alongside or cruising at speed. The award-winning original 37 earned plaudits around the globe but, in this case, the best just got better.

Gullwing doors In a ďŹ rst for a boat, the doors add excellent functionality and superb access to the forward cabin, totally transforming the concept of bringing the outdoors indoors. Customers can enjoy their surroundings like never before

Axopar 37 World premiere at Boot DĂźsseldorf 2020

Multi-storage aft deck layout options Open, wetbar and aft cabin deck layouts are available plus a new multi-storage module for the Spyder and Sun-Top designed to stow watersports and adventure equipment

Digital helm The Axopar helm is a fully digital glass bridge with exceptional functionality that delivers a user experience previously unseen on a boat. The driver ergonomics are outstanding and the integrated screens ensure the dashboard remains uncluttered but still delivers all necessary information quickly and clearly

Fuel efficiency The new hull design, in tandem with Mercury Marine’s latest range of outboards, boasts some staggering efficiency figures over its predecessor. The boat is up to 30% more fuel efficient between 20 and 40 knots than before

Camouflage wrap Axopar will wrap your boat in the same distinctive camouﬂage as the launch boat if requested

First class cabin The front cabin has been enlarged, meaning it is even more comfortable, spacious and welcoming

New levels of comfort In reaction to owner feedback there is now an optional separate toilet compartment, with the option of a shower, to boost privacy and comfort

AXOPAR OWNERS AXOPAR 28 CABIN CONNECTICUT, USA

90-year-old Paul Kempner hadn’t been planning on buying a boat at the Norwalk Boat Show… until he saw the Axopar 28 Cabin

CONNECTICUT, USA 41.0534° N, 73.5387° W

Age is just a number aul Kempner has owned boats for nearly 50 years but it was after a three-year break from boating that he visited East Coast Yacht Sales at the Norwalk Boat Show. “We live on the water in Stamford, Connecticut,” Paul explains. “We were looking for a 15ft runaround to keep on our dock and hadn’t even heard of Axopar before the show.” He and his partner Julie, 76, clapped eyes on a 28 Cabin with a single 300hp Mercury Verado and were blown away by how different it looked. “It’s nothing like a Grady White or Pursuit but the level of protection is so much better and that was a priority for us,” Paul says.

He has only had his 28, named Julie, for the last month of the season but when it’s back in the water the couple will mainly use the boat for day trips and “hotel cruising”, as Paul calls it. “Here on the Sound we have so many wonderful areas to visit with lots of restaurants and nice hotels, we don’t need a boat that we can sleep on,” he explains. With its fully enclosed wheelhouse and effortless performance the 28 Cabin allows Paul and Julie to cruise to their destination in sheltered comfort and means they don’t have to be out on the water for too long. Much to Paul’s delight the boat proved itself a worthy companion in rough seas on the day he collected it: “We were in 3-4ft seas but the boat dealt with it brilliantly and it brought home what a quality machine it is.”

SAN DIEGO, USA AXOPAR 37 CABIN AXOPAR OWNERS

“My son said two words to me: aft cabin” The Stroms had not heard of Axopar until a chance sighting of a 37 Cabin transformed the way they go boating

SAN DIEGO, USA 32.7157° N, 117.1611° W

ans and Liza Strom were aboard a friend’s sailing yacht in San Diego bay when they first clapped eyes on an Axopar 37. “We had decided we wanted a faster boat so that we could travel to watch our son and daughter compete in sailing races,”explains Hans. “We were looking at Cobalts and the like and Axopar wasn’t even on the radar.” As they sailed through the bay the local Axopar dealer, Jeff Brown, went past in a 37 and their interest was piqued. Before long they were on sea trial with Liza, who wasn’t sold on the idea of a new boat, behind the wheel and loving every minute. “Now that is a boat we can buy,” were her words.

Their son Harrison, who was ten at the time, caught wind of the new boat and did his research online, soon discovering the boat was available with an aft cabin. Hans says: “On the way to school he said to me, ‘Dad, two words: aft cabin.’” Opting for the extra cabin has paid off and the four of them have spent many happy nights on board, including a week away on Catalina Island. “The Axopar is like no other boat I have ever driven,” Hans continues. “The bow does not rise and you look down and realise you are doing twice the speed you thought you were. When I first saw the boat I assumed it would be $500,000 but in reality it’s half of that.” Whether it’s a 160-mile round trip to watch a sailing regatta or a blast to the local cove for a paddle board, the 37 is the Stroms’ perfect companion.

RABUS Marine is the

result of a cuttingedge partnership between two of the most renowned companies

in their respective ﬁelds, producing an individualist’s range of yachts with an automotive bloodline. Hand crafted to the highest standard, the BRABUS Marine range is one of bespoke luxury, fastidious attention to detail and scintillating performance. Outstanding performance, power and superior acceleration, together with easy handling and best-in-class drivability, forms the core of a BRABUS Marine product. The partnership between BRABUS and Axopar will be strengthened at Boot Düsseldorf 2020 with the world premiere of the BRABUS Shadow 900. Based on the outstanding underpinnings of the all-new Axopar 37, this ﬂagship of the BRABUS Marine range is capable of over 60 knots thanks to a pair of 450hp Mercury Marine Racing outboards.

Our US Dealer Network

Locate your nearest Axopar / BRABUS Marine US dealer Nautical Ventures Group, Inc.

Jeff Brown Yachts

East Coast Yacht Sales

sales@nauticalventures.com www.nauticalventures.com

jeff@jeffbrownyachts.com jeffbrownyachts.com

yachts@ecys.com www.ecys.com

Dania Beach - Main Ofﬁce

San Diego - Main Ofﬁce

Yarmouth - Main Ofﬁce

50 South Bryan Rd, Dania Beach, FL 33004

2614 Shelter Island Drive, Suite A, San Diego CA, U.S. 92106

106 Lafayette Street, Yarmouth, ME 04096

Tel: (954) 926-5250

Tel: (619) 222-9899

Tel: (207) 846-4545

(619) 709-0697

Palm Beach Ofﬁce

Belfast Ofﬁce

139 Shore Court, North Palm Beach, FL 33408 Tel: (561) 612-7076

Fort Lauderdale Ofﬁce 4470 Anglers Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312 Tel: (954) 926-5250

Los Angeles Ofﬁce Los Angeles, 4514 Spencer St., Torrance, CA 90503 Tel: (310)717-0775

Tel: (954)701-1072

Camden Ofﬁce

San Francisco Ofﬁce

44 Bayview Street, Camden, ME 04843

298 Harbor Drive Sausalito, CA. 94965

Tel: (954)701-1072

Tel: (510) 701-4880

Sarasota Ofﬁce

101 Front Street, BLDG 1 Belfast, ME 04915

8050 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243

Seattle Ofﬁce

Tel: (941) 355-5500

Tel: (619) 709-0697

3215 NW 57th St., Seattle, WA 98107

Salem Ofﬁce 23 Glendale Street, Salem, MA 01970 Tel: (978) 744-7070

Portsmouth Ofﬁce

Tampa Bay Ofﬁce

1 Maritime Drive, Suite 1, Portsmouth, RI 02871

1925 U.S. Highway 19, Holiday, FL 34691

Tel: (401)682-2010

Tel: (727) 939-8900

Mystic Ofﬁce 47 Water Street, Suite 200A Mystic, CT, US 06355 Tel: (860) 415-8282

Follow the adventure with Axopar and BRABUS Marine on our social media channels

Axopar Boats Brabus Marine

@Axopar @brabusmarine

BOAT DOCTOR /// W H AT T O L O O K F O R

BOAT PROPELLERS

PHOTOS: COURTESY ACME PROPELLERS (TOP RIGHT), COURTESY MICHIGAN WHEEL MARINE (3)

“Before spending money on new propellers, do some homework,” says Randy Hale, co-inventor of the Hale MRI propeller-measuring instrument (halepropeller.com). Take time for proper sea trials, identify shortcomings in boat performance and handling, and set realistic expectations, he says. “More often than not, we’ll look at modifying existing propellers before suggesting new ones.” Here’s a look at how propeller design parameters affect performance on both inboard and outboard boats. —Capt. Vincent Daniello INCREASE DIAMETER All things equal, larger-diameter propellers deliver better efficiency. Inboard-powered boatbuilders balance this against boat draft and aperture clearance; outboard- and sterndrive-powered boats are limited by gear-case dimensions. Improper replacement props, years of grinding during repairs, or even wear from sand, silt and water may leave props undersize. Bigger props decrease the blade-tip-to-hull clearance, though, which may increase propeller noise. ADD BLADES Increasing the number of propeller blades often increases cruising speed and cruising fuel economy. This often comes at a loss of top-end performance, so

boatbuilders marketing based on top speed might choose less-efficient but faster props. Adding blades often mitigates vibration or noise too. PITCH Pitch refers to how many inches a propeller would travel in one revolution through a semi-soft medium, such as Jell-O. It’s really a way to quantify the angle of the face of the blade—more pitch is closer to horizontal, while less pitch is closer to vertical. Altering pitch adjusts propeller load and therefore engine load, which ideally utilizes all of an engine’s horsepower while also hitting its maximum rated rpm. CUP Cup—which can be light, medium or heavy—is a slight inward curve along the

edges of the blade tips. Hale compares it to ﬂaps on an airplane wing. Like pitch, cup changes load, but adding cup can also reduce cavitation, help lift the stern as a boat comes on plane, or affect trim once on plane. CHANGE RAKE Rake quantiﬁes how much of a propeller’s blade area is in front of or behind the propeller hub. Combined with other propeller characteristics, altering rake is a powerful tool for changing boat handling or trim.

UPGRADE MATERIAL The traditional bronze used on inboard props and the aluminum on outboards both ﬂex. For inboard boats, nibral— nickel, bronze and aluminum alloy—or stainless steel on outboards and sterndrives holds shape better. While this often increases performance, Hale says inboard diesels and outboards of 150 hp or more typically employ this advantage best. Stronger material is also more durable.

ADD SKEW Skew is a banana-shaped curve of the blades from hub to tip. It lengthens the leading edge of each blade, which can mitigate cavitation and smooth interference from turbulent water ﬂowing off propeller shaft struts.

SWITCH TO COMPLEX BLADE SHAPE Small-boat propellers typically utilize the same pitch across the whole blade, but this is changing. Sophisticated computer modeling and manu-

facturing now allow prop pitch changes along and across each blade, creating more-efﬁcient cambered foils. These complex-geometry

propellers allow more precise loading to better match engine horsepower curves, mitigate cavitation, and decrease noise and vibration.

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livewell, washdown, transom shower, sink or whatever water circuit is protected against freeze damage.

SIX USES FOR A PLASTIC JUG Real reasons for repurposing.

I keep a plastic jug—one with a handle—aboard my boat and use it several times a year. It takes the place of items I might buy anyway, so it saves money. And it performs multiple functions, so it saves space.

With plastic ﬁlling our oceans at an increasing rate, anything we can do to keep it out of the waste stream helps. If a lot of people do a little bit, it really does add up.

SCOOP Whether it’s the cubes from the marina’s ice machine or the sand your grandchild is molding into a castle at your favorite cove, beach or sandbar, a scoop comes in handy aboard

FILTER CHANGER Whether it’s the side-mounted oil filter on my engine or the fuel filter located at arm’s length through an 8-inch-diameter deck plate, I use the jug to ensure filter changes don’t include spills. After loosening the filter with the wrench, I hold the jug under the filter and then spin it off by hand, catching the element, and any fuel or oil, for proper disposal.

BAILER For this use, I suggest leaving the cap on, unless you assign the bailing task to a shipmate with a sense of humor. So, the livewell or ﬁsh-box pump goes kaput? Break out the jug and bail out the box. Have a dinghy or kayak? Tie the jug to a thwart or frame to eliminate paddle drips and spray. PUMP WINTERIZER Close the seacock, if applicable, and remove a pump’s intake hose. With the cap on the jug, ﬁll it three-quarters full with nontoxic antifreeze. Insert the intake hose and turn on the pump so your

the boat. Keep the cap on in this application. HEAD The jug can prove convenient when nature calls. Use the jug with the cap on for this purpose, retaining the end product for disposal upon completion of the deed. Bleach-based disinfecting is recommended following use. FUNNEL Most boaters know the trick of pouring over the handle to make pouring ﬂuids a neater job. Even so, a funnel makes ﬁlling oil, adding fuel from a can, or topping off coolant

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PHOTOS: GARRETT CORTESE

super neat. Remove the cap—I ﬁnd the jug’s threads mate with those of some ﬁll pipes, which can make the jug a hands-free tool.

MAKE A MULTITOOL Cut the scoop shape using a utility knife. Retain the cap; it will come in handy, as the accompanying text explains. Add a lanyard to make it easy to hang up or secure in the boat or dinghy. Round bleach and soap jugs make the best all-around multitool, but a narrow oil or antifreeze jug can be useful if you have a need to scoop or bail in a narrow area. Feel free to add your boat’s name, apply stickers or otherwise personalize it. Have fun, and consider other ways you can repurpose plastic or minimize its use aboard. —Kevin Falvey

LIFE’S ABOUT Our 2020 ﬂeet has arrived with big boat features like wraparound windshields and leading-edge Garmin® electronics now standard on every model. Build yours today at regulatormarine.com

regulatormarine.com | 252.482.3837 | Edenton, NC | @regulatormarine

PORTABLE ONBOARD SAT TV Easy and aﬀordable onboard satellite

Your boat might not be suitable or have enough mounting space for a permanently installed marine satellite TV dome. What’s more, with marine satellite TV systems from companies such as Intellian starting at around $2,200, you might not want to spend the money either.

But there’s another option. Thanks to a new portable satellite system, you can enjoy sports, movies and other programming in high deﬁnition as you relax or overnight aboard your boat, whether in a marina or pulled up on a beach, while paying far less for the satellite equipment. Dish Network has designed an affordable system utilizing a 7½-pound satellite dome antenna it calls Playmaker. Measuring roughly 16 inches in diameter and 13 inches

tall, the Playmaker is based on the CarryOut antenna from Winegard, which has gained popularity in the RV market. Dish bundles an easy-to-connect Wally receiver (oneand two-TV models are available) and the cables you need to quickly hook up everything to an onboard ﬂat-screen TV set. The hardware package starts at $348.

“We’re very passionate about the Playmaker program,” says Amir Ahmed, senior vice president of sales at Dish. “The Playmaker is both affordable and easy to set up in minutes.” The Dish “Outdoors” HD programming packages start at $39.99 per month for 50 popular channels, with no long-term contract required. If you already have Dish, it’s a $7 per month additional programming charge, and it too is pay as you

UNDER THE DOME The Playmaker dish automatically locks in on available satellites for the best HDTV reception.

go. Adding HD sports programming such as the NFL Network or NFL Red Zone ramps up the cost. One of the most popular is the American Top 120 Plus for $84.99 per month. There are two caveats: One is the Playmaker needs a clear view of the southern sky with no obstructions, such as the flying bridge of the boat in the slip next to you, nearby trees, buildings and the like. Secondly, and more problematic for boats, the dome is designed to work on a stationary surface. That means the movement of boats and floating docks might result in signal loss. Dish recommends using a fixed dock, seawall, or the shoreline where you’ve beached your boat for a party. A clever DIY boater might be able to build a shelf that attaches to a piling to temporarily secure the

Playmaker for watching TV while docked. The antenna comes with 25 feet of coaxial cable to route back inside the boat and connect to the receiver. The Wally includes a 6-foot HDMI cable to connect with a TV, as well as a power cord to plug into your 120-volt AC shore power, generator or inverter. After hooking up your new system, there will be a quick setup procedure that includes selecting the state you are currently in and pressing “Scan” to start scanning for satellites. Then the programming loads. After that, you can start watching TV. I assembled the Playmaker dome and Wally receiver in about ﬁve minutes, and while the initial setup took about 20 minutes, each subsequent connection took only a few minutes. —Jim Hendricks

PHOTOS: COURTESY DISH NETWORK

HDTV—anywhere.

The road to paradise Isn’t

Actually a Road.

Where you’re going there are no roads. No stop lights. No trafﬁc jams. Because paradise doesn’t have a street address. It’s the water kissing the sky along the horizon. The sun on your face. Paradise is out there for you to ﬁnd. You just have to pick a Cobia and go.

www.cobiaboats.com

BOATINGLAB By Randy Vance

Zip Tip Some zippers sport a storm ﬂap, but YKK AquaGuard Vision zippers work well.

R AI N G EA R Quality rain parkas cost from $200 to $500, and you can pay more. But before you do, take stock of whether you want just-in-case protection for a summer shower or stay-on-the-ﬂoat-plan protection in an icy white squall.

Gore-Tex is the most notable waterproof membrane thanks to its lifetime warranty, which is based on rigid management of how clothing-makers use its membrane in a garment. Gore-Tex strictly monitors assembly methods for sealed seams, fabric ﬂexibility and durability, and the shell’s water repellency. There might be a dozen or more membrane fabrics with less expensive testing, but if properly used, Gore-Tex will return good value for the dollars spent.

of zippers, and some of the jackets we tested used a variation of it with a water-resistant barrier over the zipper’s teeth. Others had storm ﬂaps that diverted water striking from ahead or above the zipper. Some zippers had both ﬂaps and gaskets. HOW WE TESTED MEMBRANE TEST

Durable water-resistant coatings, known as DWR, are applied to the surface fabric of all garments to cause the shell to shed water, preventing the clammy feeling of a wet membrane.

Waterproof membranes are tested by pressurizing water to a level equal to about 15 feet in a 1-inch-diameter tube. That was alotta pipe to handle, so we used a 6-foot-by-4-inch pipe reduced to 2 inches at the bottom, sealed that water-ﬁlled pipe with the jacket membrane, and measured how much water leaked in three minutes. Spoiler alert: None leaked.

MULTIPLE LAMINATE FABRICS

DWR TEST

Most membranes are bonded to a polyester shell, though L.L.Bean uses a recycled nylon shell for environmental benefits. Some have a third layer, called a comfort layer, of tricot, mesh or fleecy fabric. Jackets by Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s are BlueSign-certified to be made with sustainable processes.

We tested the efficacy of the durable water-resistant coating by spraying water on the shell, allowing it to bead for several minutes, and then shaking it off. All fabrics passed this test.

DURABLE WATER RESISTANCE

CUFF PROTECTION

Cuffs in some of the more hardcore rain gear feature stretchable wrist gaskets to prevent water from entering. All the jackets we tested also had hook-and-loop wrist closures to assist in shedding water. WATER-RESISTANT ZIPPERS

YKK AquaGuard Vision is the Cadillac

SEALED ZIPPER TEST

We put napkins in the main pockets and showered them from above for three minutes to test water blockage. SEALED ZIPPER SPRAY TEST

Some of the jackets failed the sealed zipper test. Instead of expensive watertight zippers, they used waterblocking zippers that were cheaper and deﬂected sprayed water. When sprayed directly with a hose, they indeed prevented water entry.

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GRUNDENS STORM RIDER

$185 to $195; grundens.com SIZES: Small to 5XL DWR: Yes HOOD: Fixed, with collar drains to prevent pooling when not worn LINER: Removable ﬂeece, optional CUFFS: Neoprene gaskets with neoprene bias tape edges and Velcro adjustments ZIPPERS: YKK water-blocking SEAMS: All taped and welded WARRANTY: Lifetime

All the zippers are water-repellant YKK AquaGuard coil zippers to complement the waterproof, breathable shell. Bellowed chest pockets are fleece-lined for warmth and zippered with these YKK zippers, likewise are the hand-warmer pockets. One inside vest pocket is zippered for credit cards, a fishing license or a smaller smartphone. Another fleece pocket is open at the top for gloves or gear. The jacket is nylon-mesh-lined with a soft, comfortable fabric that enhances wicking. WE SAY: This could be at home on the ski slopes as

well as at sea. At ﬁrst, it appeared the seams were untaped, but closer inspection revealed they were sealed with transparent tape. The waist and hood drawstring locks are hidden inside the fabric and snag-free. The mesh liner assisted in a dry, comfortable feel. SEALED ZIPPER TEST: The zipper allowed only a

drip at the YKK pull, but resisted water all along its length, keeping the napkin dry. SEALED ZIPPER SPRAY TEST: No leakage. MEMBRANE TEST: No leakage. DWR TEST: Water beaded and rolled off.

PHOTOS: GARRETT CORTESE

WATERPROOF MEMBRANES

V E R S AT I L I T Y F O R A L L A D V E N T U R E S !

NC 695 SPORT

NC 795 SPORT

NEW NC 895 SPORT

Introducing the new NC 895 SPORT! This 29-foot V-shaped hull was designed to be stable and fast. From exploring quiet creeks to discovering new coves to anchor in overnight, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to gear up and plan your next adventure.

jeanneau.com

FIND MORE BOATINGLAB TESTS AT BOATINGMAG.COM.

Backﬁeld The exterior shoulder membranes are lined inside for comfort and style.

Both an elastic cuff and Velcro fastener provide watertight cuffs.

BASS PRO SHOPS

COLUMBIA

GORE-TEX 100 MPH

PFG TERMINAL OUTDRY HYBRID

$219.99 for jacket, $189.99 for bibs; basspro.com

$150; columbia.com

SIZES: XL to XXXL; LT,XLT,2XLT

CUFFS: Neoprene and Velcro

SIZES: Small to XXL

ZIPPERS: YKK water-blocking;

DWR: Gore-certiﬁed DWR

closures

DWR: Yes

HOOD: Removable

ZIPPERS: YKK water-blocking

HOOD: Fixed

LINER: Removable ﬂeece, optional

SEAMS: All taped and welded

LINER: None

main zipper has only storm ﬂaps SEAMS: All taped and welded WARRANTY: Lifetime Limited

WARRANTY: Lifetime

CUFFS: Neoprene gaskets and

Bass ﬁshermen travel in excess of 75 miles per hour, and they don’t slow down for the rain, so Bass Pro designed the 100 mph Jacket and Bibs with Gore-Tex. The fabric stretches and moves with the wearer. Waterproof-coated knit wrist cuffs prevent water from running up the arms. YKK AquaGuard Vision zippers with water-repellent surfaces and a storm welt behind the main closure keep water out. Breast and hand-warmer pockets are similarly protected. A zippered inside vest pocket holds large smartphones or other gear. Elastic waistband and hood adjustments use exterior push-button clamps, and the jacket has an extra-long tail for protection when sitting, but snaps hide it from view if unneeded. Fleece linings in the collar and hood add warmth, and Velcro closures add more protection. It is designed to accept a ﬂeece jacket as a liner. WE SAY: This jacket is ideal for the extreme conditions faced by anglers

who can’t quit. It’s ready for four-season use with the optional ﬂeece liner. As required by Gore-Tex, the fabric shell is ﬂexible, and the DWR caused water to bead and roll off. The smooth nylon lining slips over clothes easily, but the three-layer garment seemed warmer than the others with mesh or bonded liners—a boon for Northern boaters. It lives up to its 100 mph designation, adding bass and walleye anglers to the list of potential customers. SEALED ZIPPER TEST: The zipper held back water, keeping the

napkin dry as a bone, including near the zipper pulls and ends. SEALED ZIPPER SPRAY TEST: No leakage. MEMBRANE TEST: No leakage. DWR TEST: Water beaded and rolled off.

7 6 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0

Velcro adjustments Columbia calls the system Outdry, which describes the alternating fabric alignment. The membrane is on the outside of the sleeves, shoulders and hood, and lined on the inside there. The breast and back have an exterior shell, and the jacket has an inside mesh liner in the front, but there is no liner in the back. Seam tape alternated from outside on the sleeves and hood to inside on the body. Hand-warmer and breast pockets are sealed against leaks, but the front zipper does not appear to have a waterproof gasket. Instead, a storm flap on the outside deflects water, and a storm flap on the inside is designed to channel any that penetrates downward and out the bottom. Elastic waist and hood adjustments tighten the fit. WE SAY: This comfortable jacket is one of the most packable to carry

as a precaution against rain and a useful trooper as your main defense. It makes a comfortable shell for boating in cooler weather when worn over a sweater too. The elastic hood closures are stitched in at the ends, leaving loops to pull to adjust. Friction holds them in place, with no risk of a “snap back” like we experienced with the L.L.Bean and Grundens hoods. When we hosed it down, we did it with energy, looking for chinks in the armour—and found absolutely none. SEALED ZIPPER TEST: The pocket zipper held out water

completely. The main zipper did not leak a drop. SEALED ZIPPER SPRAY TEST: No leakage. MEMBRANE TEST: No leakage. In our membrane test, the fabric bulged and stretched, as intended, meeting ﬂexibility requirements. DWR TEST: Water beaded and rolled off.

PHOTOS: GARRETT CORTESE

Rugged

350 REALM

TO THE HORIZON AND BACK MEET THE INNOVATION AWARD-WINNING 350 REALM: More than a cabin cruiser, more than a center console, for more possibility than ever before. The Realm combines breakthrough technology and innovative design to deliver eﬀortless operation, new remote-monitoring capabilities, and seamless enjoyment, whether you’re chasing the horizon or just enjoying the view.

WWW2.BOSTONWHALER.COM/HORIZON

BOAT DOCTOR /// B O AT I N G L A B

FIND MORE BOATINGLAB TESTS AT BOATINGMAG.COM.

Zippered The zipper pull nests in an overhead pocket to protect its weak spot.

Light and Watertight Not a drop of water came through the zippers in both zipper tests.

CABELA’S

L.L.BEAN

RAINY RIVER PARKA WITH GORE-TEX

TRAIL MODEL RAIN JACKET

$130 to $140; cabelas.com

$100; llbean.com

SIZES: Medium to 4XL; XLT to

CUFFS: Elastic with Velcro

SIZES: Small to XXL

ZIPPERS: Gasketed breast, and

3XLT

fasteners

DWR: Yes

open coil zippers for main and hand-warmer pocket zippers SEAMS: All taped and welded WARRANTY: 100% Satisfaction Guarantee

ZIPPERS: YKK water-blocking; main zipper is unsealed but has storm flaps SEAMS: All taped and welded WARRANTY: Lifetime Gore-Tex construction means this jacket was extensively tested to meet the Gore-Tex protection standards. Seams are taped, pocket zippers are water-resistant YKK AquaGuard, and the main coil-type zipper is protected with front and rear storm flaps. The Gore-Tex Pac-Lite membrane is bonded to a tough recycled polyester shell, keeping the jacket lightweight and easy to pack away when not needed. And it has a soft, bonded liner inside. In addition to using recycled fabric, both fabrics are BlueSign-certified by an independent authority, ensuring fabrics were constructed in the most sustainable methods.

WE SAY: It’s comfortable to wear and cut roomy for mobility. The ﬁxed

hood and waistband have adjustable elastic for a snug ﬁt—elastic ends are stitched down to stop the rubber-band effect. Velcro holds the storm ﬂap and hood collar in place. In breezy boat testing, we found the jacket provided windbreaking warmth in addition to rain protection. When the sun came out, we took off the jacket and rolled it into a backpack, out of the way. Anglers should appreciate the sleek design of this jacket, with minimal snags for catching lines. SEALED ZIPPER TEST: Pocket zippers are bone-dry, allowing no

water to penetrate in our tests. Main zipper was dry as a bone in both our tests and deﬂected hard spray as well.

HOOD: Fixed LINER: None CUFFS: Velcro closures, no

gaskets

Similar in design to the Cabela’s Rainy River Parka, this is made of a dual-layer fabric, but L.L.Bean chose recycled nylon rather than polyester for the outside of the jacket. The seams are sealed inside, and the entire garment is waterproof-lined with a breathable membrane on the inside. Hand-warmer pocket slots open to mesh pouches and close with unsealed coil zippers protected behind storm ﬂaps. One breast pocket is media-friendly, or cellphone-ready, as we say. That pocket has a sealed coil zipper that did not leak a drop in our tests. The waist has an adjustable elastic waistband, and the hood has dual drawstrings without latches or spring clamps. Beware of them: When I pulled them tight, the small end caps slipped from my ﬁngers, popping me in the face. Cuffs have Velcro closures to snug them around the wrist. WE SAY: This is an ideal garment for a windbreaker shell or a light

rain. It is packable for just in case. By their appearance, we did not think the unsealed coil zippers would provide adequate protection from rain, but we were absolutely wrong. We like L.L.Bean’s sustainable approach to manufacturing the jacket, and felt its use of recycled materials took absolutely nothing away from the jacket in terms of efﬁcacy, style and comfort. SEALED ZIPPER TEST: The sealed breast zipper was damp but

SEALED ZIPPER SPRAY TEST: No leakage.

not wet; the other pocket and main zippers leaked.

MEMBRANE TEST: No leakage. The fabric bulged under the

SEALED ZIPPER SPRAY TEST: No leakage.

pressure and stretched, without leaking. DWR TEST: Water beaded and rolled off.

MEMBRANE TEST: No leakage.

7 8 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0

DWR TEST: Water beaded and rolled off.

PHOTOS: GARRETT CORTESE

DWR: Gore-Tex-certiﬁed DWR coating HOOD: Fixed LINER: None

BOAT DOCTOR /// B O AT I N G L A B

FIND MORE BOATINGLAB TESTS AT BOATINGMAG.COM.

Light Speed Reﬂective fabric adds an element of safety to this watertight jacket.

Inner Pockets Its value is enhanced by inner pockets to keep phones or other gear dry.

FROGG TOGGS

HUK

PILOT II RAIN JACKET

LEVIATHAN JACKET

$174.99; froggtoggs.com

$380; hukgear.com

SIZES: Small to XXXL

POCKETS: Dual breast pockets,

DWR: Teﬂon

dual hand-warmer pockets CUFFS: Neoprene gaskets and Velcro closures ZIPPERS: Water-blocking SEAMS: All taped and welded WARRANTY: Lifetime

HOOD: Removable LINER: Removable quilted puff

jacket, optional

This jacket is made from a three-layer fabric, beginning with a fine, flexible tricot inner liner that helps keep the wearer cool, which is bonded to Frogg Toggs’ Dri Pore 2 breathable, flexible and lightweight fabric. Bonded to that is a tough, flexible, breathable, abrasion-resistant polyester shell. Optional overalls have waterresistant full-leg zippers, and adjustable elastic suspenders that snap on or off with nylon buckles.

PHOTOS: GARRETT CORTESE

WE SAY: The supple jacket ﬂexes with your body, moving, docking,

SIZES: Small to XXXL

CUFFS: Neoprene gaskets and

DWR: Yes

Velcro closures ZIPPERS: YKK water-blocking SEAMS: All taped and welded WARRANTY: Lifetime

HOOD: Fixed LINER: Removable ﬂeece, optional

The three-layer fabric is treated with Huk’s Reflectek reflective coating to add repellency and reflect light. The inner lining is soft and smooth. An elastic waist drawstring cinches it down over the overalls for a snug fit to keep water from seeping upward. The overalls have a right-side chest zipper and knee-high leg zippers to slip them on over boots. Welts behind the zippers deflect penetrating rain. Velcro secures the pant cuffs, and a webbed back distributes the tension of the shoulder straps. Breast, hip and thigh pockets—two each—keep small gear handy. The hood is fixed to the jacket, and the drawstring is adjustable.

line handling and ﬁshing easier all day. The coat tail is long for optimum coverage, and the sleeves have inner closures to block water from running up the arms. This isn’t the least expensive of the rain jackets in our test, but its value is impressive, considering the full list of features including ample pockets, contrasting fabrics for style, soft mesh lining for comfort and a removable hood. Sleeve gaskets were snug but comfortable and an improvement over the still-wateright Frogg Toggs jacket I’ve worn for three years.

WE SAY: The zipper does not appear to be water-resistant, but

SEALED ZIPPER TEST: In our standing water test, the zippers

SEALED ZIPPER TEST: Our test garment’s zippers leaked with

leaked through in less than ﬁve minutes. SEALED ZIPPER SPRAY TEST: No leakage. This was one of the jackets that required testing to construction. Because it failed the standing water test, we expected problems in the spray test. However, we were dead wrong about this worthwhile design. MEMBRANE TEST: No leakage. DWR TEST: Water beaded and rolled off.

water pooled on them in ﬁve minutes. SEALED ZIPPER SPRAY TEST: No leakage. It would have been a nice bonus if it had repelled water pooled on the zippers, and we wouldn’t downplay its importance, but being able to deﬂect a hard spray from a hose impressed us. MEMBRANE TEST: No leakage. DWR TEST: Water beaded and rolled off.

a welt behind it is designed to shed water downward and away from the body. Dual breast and hip pockets are zippered, but the closures are not rain-protected. While they didn’t fare well in the standing water test, we ultimately decided this jacket was a top contender for the money. The ﬁnely woven lining is softer to the touch than some, the fabric is supple, and comfort is important.

B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0 | 7 9

CERTIFIED

TEST

SAILFISH 360 CC A luxury center-console ﬁshing boat with family appointments at an attractive price.

Sailfish Boats sets a standard with its new 360 CC, a wide-beam 36-footer. It’s elegant and sophisticated, well-planned and well-executed. With the 360 CC, Sailfish blends a hardcore fishing machine with a comfortable family cruiser. You certainly get a sensation of mass when boarding. Unusually high gunwales offer security to passengers, and everywhere you look has someplace to sit—comfortably. An expansive forward area for bow fishing converts to lounges with an electric table on centerline. Removable backrests let you face forward—or sprawl on the huge centerline lounge hiding tons of stowage for fenders, lines, tackle, dive gear and cleaning supplies.

8 0 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0

PHOTOS: SAILFISH BOATS

#3167

SCA N ME

PHOTOS: SAILFISH BOATS

To see our photo gallery of the Sailﬁsh 360 CC, scan this tag or visit boatingmag.com/3167.

Sailfish also insulates it so it can double as a coffin box for all those fish it will raise. In fact, throughout the 360, a masterful use of space provides copious storage. A through-stem anchor roller and a windlass work in concert with another big-boat feature: a freshwater washdown outlet (along with transom and amidships outlets) to clear the mud off the anchor and rode. The console houses a stand-up shower, berth, Corian counters

and head, all capped by a handsome T-top with tinted opening vents and molded channels to carry water away from passengers. Sailfish employs a “dot-matrix” nonskid pattern that grips well yet doesn’t tear up your bare feet or knees and cleans more easily than more aggressive patterns. Additionally, all lights aboard are LED and can flood the boat with 360 degrees of illumination. Underwater lights come standard as well. The only options include a Garmin electronics package and the outriggers. B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0 | 8 1

Your choice of optional joystick controls is a worthwhile investment; so equipped, anyone can capably maneuver this boat into or out of the slip without anxiety. following sea. However, prudent seamanship combined with all that internal volume in the bow should alleviate any problems. The boat responds instantly, and if you turn the wheel hard over at speed, it grabs and turns sharply rather than sliding the transom around. It’s a good riding hull, and unique too. Sailfish boats ride a hull design the builder calls a variable degree stepped hull, or VDS. Rather than a transverse step—or steps across the beam—with chine vents, as is more common, Sailfish’s VDS hull features longitudinal steps. From the centerline along the keel to about one-third of the hull bottom’s width is a panel with a deep deadrise. The middle

third of the bottom is a panel with slightly less deadrise. And the most outboard hull panel, terminating at the inside edge of the reverse chines, is a different deadrise angle again. For a simple visual, imagine an inverted shingled roof, in which each course of shingles is at a slightly steeper angle. A side door opens inward so you can easily board from a floating dock. This one also has an excellent four-step ladder for climbing out of the water. However, such doors and ladders are no substitute for a real boarding ladder that you can deploy while in the water. The 360 CC transom has one of those as well. Space has even been engineered into the 360 to fit a Seakeeper stabilizer, should you choose that option. In addition to comfortable seating for three at the helm (with impact cushioning on an adjustable-height platform), mezzanine seating faces aft for another three, and a foldout transom seat accommodates more. The huge console fits a pair of 16- or triple 12-inch multifunction displays. With 34 rod holders, two pressurized baitwells of 42 and 32 gallons with a dedicated sea-chest pump system, built-in tackle storage, outriggers, insulated coffin box and choice of several fish boxes, the Sailfish 360 CC leaves little doubt as to its angling chops. —Dean Travis Clarke

High Points

X Impressive standard equipment list. X Boat is roomy, with elegant styling, fit

and finish. X Auto-engine flush system inlcuded.

Low Points

X Runs flat without any tabs; would prefer a

little higher bow angle for following seas. X A little more “slide” in hard-over turns

might be welcome.

· LOA: 36'0" · BEAM: 11'2" · DRAFT (HULL): 2'4" · DISPLACEMENT (APPROX.): 12,700 lb. · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 22 to 24 degrees · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 9'10" · MAX CABIN HEADROOM: 6'5" · FUEL CAPACITY: 400 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER: 1,050 · AVAILABLE POWER: Twin or triple Yamaha outboards to 1,050 hp total

Price: $430,995 (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 ENGINE: TRIPLE 300 HP YAMAHA F300 OUTBOARD MOTORS DRIVE/PROP: OUTBOARD/15" X 20" GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 160 GAL. WATER ON BOARD: 35 GAL. CREW WEIGHT: 499 LB.

S A I L F I S H B O AT S

Cairo, Georgia; 229-377-2125; sailfishboats.com

C CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS

8 2 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0

SPEED

EFFICIENCY

rpm

knots

mph

gph

naut. mpg

1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5400

5.69 7.99 9.95 14.25 21.33 29.46 33.46 37.63 42.28 46.36

6.55 9.20 11.45 16.40 24.55 33.90 38.50 43.30 48.65 53.35

3.60 6.30 11.10 16.80 20.90 28.60 37.30 51.50 66.50 78.90

1.58 1.27 0.90 0.85 1.02 1.03 0.90 0.73 0.64 0.59

MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED

OPERATION

stat. mpg

n. mi. range

s. mi. range

angle

sound level

1.82 1.46 1.03 0.98 1.17 1.19 1.03 0.84 0.73 0.68

569 457 323 305 367 371 323 263 229 212

655 526 371 351 423 427 372 303 263 243

NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA

84 89 95 95 95 85 90 92 88 92

PHOTO: SAILFISH BOATS

Pricewise, this boat is middle of the road for its type. Compare the Sailfish 360 CC to Cobia’s 344 CC ($222,583 with twin Yamaha F350s). Also check out Boston Whaler’s 350 Outrage ($414,991 powered by triple 300 hp Mercury Verado outboards). Triple Yamaha F300s powered our test boat admirably. It’s a big, heavy boat, so we didn’t experience head-snapping acceleration or frightening top speed, but these engines delivered ample performance. The 360 proved stable and dry. It runs flat, so you won’t need to use tabs except for lateral trim. If anything, it would be nice if the bow rode a bit higher in a

RETHINK POWER. 2.3L

310 HP

350 lb-ft Torque

S C AN ME

Hull blueprinting, the process of meticulously finishing a hull’s bottom so that mold variances are eliminated and dimensions remain as true to the original design specifications as possible, is often thought of as a process reserved for race boats. Nor-Tech deems blueprinting worthy of every boat. The builder also goes so far as to fill and core all the hull strakes for added hull rigidity, strategically add high-density foam, Kevlar and carbon fiber to key areas, and completely encapsulate its composite stringer grid in fiberglass. It’s an almost obsessive attention to even the smallest detail that could instantly be felt on the 340 Sport. I brought the craft’s triple Mercury Racing 350 outboards to life, cruised into open water,

8 4 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0

PHOTO: TOM KING

To see our video review of the Nor-Tech 340 Sport, scan this tag or visit boatingmag .com/3168.

#3168

C CERTIFIED

PHOTOS: TOM KING

TEST

and then anxiously firewalled the throttles. The boat hurtled forward with nary a twitch, the numbers on my GPS advancing in rapid succession until I was flirting with 80 mph. Throttling down into the 50s, I barreled into a hard-over turn and experienced sure-footed stability, the 340 almost begging me to pile on more speed. Many boaters might be wary while pushing such limits, especially on a stepped hull bottom, but the 340 Sport proved worthy of my confidence, hugging the water with utter tenacity. This particular 340 Sport was outfitted

NOR-TECH 340 SPORT Luxury, high performance and ﬁshability in a race for the fulﬁllment of your boating desires.

for upscale cruising above the waterline, but a performance heart clearly beats below its glamorous finish. Step into the cockpit via the starboard-side dive door, and NorTech’s Club Sport bench offers the first hint of the luxury that is to come. With plush contours and diamond-pattern stitching, it offers a full 7 feet of seating space, spanning the entire width of the transom, enough to accommodate a sizable crew. Corner cushions lift out to step out onto the swim platform. Just forward, a custom-painted B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0 | 8 5

Nor-Tech might be a production builder, but the end product is highly customized. Exterior paint schemes, motors, upholstery colors, flooring, and even details as minor as cushion stitching can all be chosen by the customer. Frigid Rigid’s backrest. Opt for a tackle center should you desire a fishier focus. In fact, add a transom livewell, convert the pair of insole storage lockers to fish boxes, and include plenty of rod holders and inwale storage, and you’re ready to bag that trophy fish. Overhead, Nor-Tech’s custom hardtop offers ample shade. It’s created from a two-part mold, giving the bottom stylized contours, and incorporates lights and an overhead electronics box with a cushioned interior liner. Extend the top’s shade aft with the optional SureShade. The latter’s hardware is likewise built right into the hardtop for a seamless finished appearance. Nor-Tech’s focus on passenger comfort continues forward of the console. Two additional crewmembers can relax in what can best be described as a 4-foot-wide sun pad with full-size, forward-facing backrests. Stretch out and flip down the center armrest, and you’ve possibly got the most comfortable—and cozy—seats aboard. Stainless-steel grab rails stretch nearly the full length for peace of mind. Opposite, more seating rings the squared-off bow cockpit. Its

generous depth offers a notable sense of security for occupants when the boat is running at speed. Raise a powered, trapezoidal panel atop the deck to sit level, and throw in a filler cushion to fashion a sun bed. Raise it higher, and it doubles as a table for entertaining. The helm befits Nor-Tech’s performanceoriented approach. The expansive dash shows off Nor-Tech’s attractive, hand-laid carbon-fiber panel. On its face sat twin Garmin 8616 16-inch displays, the port of which brought up pertinent engine and fuel info large enough to allow those of us with tired eyes to leave our cheater readers in our pockets. Dual throttles and shifters sit adjacent to a stainless wheel. Within the console, 6 feet of headroom awaits, along with a marine toilet and stainless-steel sink. A skylight and twin screened ports provide natural light and ventilation. A 6-foot-deep berth may get tight from the knees down, but it offers a spot to nap or overnight. Given Nor-Tech’s impressive level of customization, it’s difficult to find a direct competitor, but Fountain certainly has a similar taste for speed. Like the 340 Sport, the Fountain 34 CC features a double-step hull, and similar layout and helm. With triple Mercury Verado 350s, it starts at $409,400. Clearly, performance of this level has a price. But in the case of the 340 Sport, I’d argue you get what you pay for. The proof is obviously found in the amenities and attention to detail topside, but don’t overlook the time that’s gone into the hull. Because, as my test ride showed, that’s where the magic happens. —Jeff Hemmel

High Points

X A-plus for organization; wiring and cabling is

meticulously laid out behind the helm, and accessed via a zippered vinyl panel within the console. X Acrylic windshield offers protection from

the elements; flared sides deflect wind away from the captain and crew. X Large anchor locker includes windlass and

freshwater shower.

Low Points

X Don’t twist an ankle—the powered bow

filler/table platform does not recess into the floor, resulting in a trip point. X Premium boat deserves pneumatic shocks

or articulating hinges on all seat bottoms and hatches; Nor-Tech uses the occasional inexpensive stainless-steel hatch spring. X Screwed-in panel blocks easy access to the

fuel sending unit. · LOA: 34'0" · BEAM: 10'0" · DRAFT (MAX): 2'8" · DISPLACEMENT (APPROX.): 9,500 lb. · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 21.5 degrees · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 9'6" · FUEL CAPACITY: 275 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER: 1,350 · AVAILABLE POWER: Twin or triple Mercury Marine outboards up to 450 hp each

Price: $453,000 (base with triple Mercury Racing 350 R outboards)

AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :

O U T B OA R D

HOW WE TESTED ENGINES: Triple Mercury Racing 350 R PROPS: Mercury Rev 4 14.625" x 25" 4-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 69 gal. WATER ON BOARD: 0 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 600 lb. N O R -T E C H B O AT S

Fort Myers, Florida; 239-567-5030; nor-techboats.com

C CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS

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SPEED

EFFICIENCY

rpm

knots

mph

gph

naut. mpg

1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 6000 6400

5.82 8.08 12.34 20.94 27.98 36.93 41.10 47.53 53.88 57.53 63.70 68.74

6.70 9.30 14.20 24.10 32.20 42.50 47.30 54.70 62.00 66.20 73.30 47.70

4.20 8.00 14.80 16.00 19.40 30.10 36.40 54.00 59.00 83.40 92.30 97.30

1.39 1.01 0.83 1.31 1.44 1.23 1.13 0.88 0.91 0.69 0.69 0.71

MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED

OPERATION

stat. mpg

n. mi. range

s. mi. range

angle

sound level

1.60 1.16 0.96 1.51 1.66 1.41 1.30 1.01 1.05 0.79 0.79 0.49

343 250 206 324 357 304 279 218 226 171 171 175

395 288 237 373 411 349 322 251 260 196 197 121

1 3 5 2 2 2 1 0 0 0 0 0

68 70 77 83 84 85 89 95 97 94 95 98

PHOTO: TOM KING

Frigid Rigid cooler backs up to the deluxe leaning post. With its plush upholstered lid, it creates an aft-facing, double-wide bench while keeping refreshments within arm’s reach of all. Slide the Frigid Rigid backward on its tracks to open up some legroom, and you can create a second row of forwardfacing seating along the centerline. At the helm, a trio of segmented spots await the captain and mates at the deluxe leaning post; flip up the bottom cushions to take a seat during more casual cruising. Contoured backrests and generous dividers provide the locked-in feel you’ll want at speed. Storage awaits on the back side, behind the padded wall that doubles as that

INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW

SERIES

338 | 35 | 38GLS | 39EC | 42C | 46C | 50C | 54C | 54F | 60C | 60F

For more information on the 38 GLS or to locate a dealer, visit

cruisersyachts.com

S C AN ME

Crossover boats are all the rage. Regulator Marine’s answer is in its new 26XO. Are there trade-offs with such a boat? Understand that the 26XO’s territory consists of estuaries and near-coastal waters. It’s not the boat for 70-mile canyon runs, but its Lou Codega-designed modified-V hull (17-degree transom deadrise) is more than capable of running gnarly inlets and venturing a few miles offshore. The design’s combination of sharp bow entry, flare, subtle curves, reverse chines, lifting strakes, carefully shaped running surface, and weight results in predictable performance and inspires confidence. We shook out the test rig in sharp, choppy bay waters, and it ran dry without pounding at

8 8 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0

PHOTO: BILL DOSTER

To view a photo gallery of the Regulator 26XO, scan this tag or visit boatingmag .com/3169.

C CERTIFIED

PHOTOS: COURTESY REGULATOR MARINE

TEST

speeds from the mid-20s to low 30s with six people aboard. The strength that Codega engineered into the design and Regulator’s rock-solid construction make it safe and stable at rest and underway. Design details such as rounded corners on the transom for maneuverability at low speeds, a subtle crown on the sole leading any water to a gutter system that drains overboard, and secure glove boxes at the helm make the boat easy to live with. Hatches fit. Holes for all bolts that mount fittings are

#3169

REGULATOR 26XO Regulator’s 26XO blends family amenities with the features of both offshore and inshore ﬁshing boats.

drilled with jigs, for precision. From hull and liner lamination to assembly and quality control, we got to see the process firsthand. This is a long-legged boat for both fishing and exploring. Loping along easily at 27 to 32 mph (4,000 to 4,500 rpm), it boasts a range of over 200 miles. The standard Yamaha F300 outboard offers appropriate power for realistic cruising speeds and efficient operation in big waters, with plenty of pull for casual tow sports when equipped with an optional, removable B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0 | 8 9

Uniquely, Regulator’s single-piece stringer system is bonded to the hull in the mold, resulting in tremendous structural integrity and a rock-solid feel in waves. permanent model, holding tank and electric pump-out. Snap in the cushions for the bow’s port-and-starboard storage compartments, and tilt up their forward-facing seatbacks to create a pair of lounges. The forward console seats two in comfort, with a cooler beneath, as does the helm’s leaning post. A 32-gallon livewell is built into the tackle center behind the helm seats, with tackle storage beneath. Forward of the console’s front seat is an illuminated 70-gallon in-sole fish box. The stern deck offers three cushioned seats side by side, plus storage and a swim platform with retractable ladder to port. A 20-gallon freshwater system serves a shower wand at the transom. A Bluetoothcapable, four-speaker marine stereo is standard, with a Polk Ultramarine package optional. OK, it’s comfortable, but after all, Regulators are fishboats at their cores. For bluewater duties, opt for Taco Grand Slam 390 outriggers ($3,495) and T-top rocket launcher ($1,895). A 16-inch Garmin GPSMap 8616 chart plotter/sounder comes standard, with a VHF and Airmar CHIRP transducer mounted to the through-hull,

High Points

but a pair of 12-inch Garmin 7612 XSV displays ($3,195) are available with the same VHF and transducer setup. You can also opt for a Garmin XO Convenience Package with autopilot and GMR 24xHD radar ($7,295). The 26XO is also a competent inshore vessel, which we saw clearly while jigging for stripers along a channel edge. With the cushions off, the forward lounges become a casting deck, with lockable horizontal rod stowage beneath. Even more important, our test boat carried an optional 36-volt Minn Kota Riptide Ulterra trolling motor with i-Pilot, a 36-amp charger, and three deep-cycle batteries neatly stowed in a dedicated compartment under the foredeck. The three seats behind the livewell/ tackle center fold down to form a huge stern casting deck. This boat’s rigging proved immaculate, and I saw why on the assembly line, watching skilled technicians take care in their work. The 26XO should prove easy to care for. And by careful design and execution, it handles multiple missions well. It may be Regulator’s most versatile model. Shoppers will want to check out Pathfinder’s 26 TRS (about $128,000 with a Yamaha F300 and comparable equipment) or Boston Whaler’s 270 Dauntless ($136,928 with a 350 hp Mercury Verado), a well-proven hybrid of similar layout. Don’t take my word for it. Schedule a sea trial of all three and see for yourself. —John Page Williams

C CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS

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X New shallow-draft hull design works on

inshore and near-coastal waters. X Graceful hardtop provides ample shade, a

wraparound safety-glass windshield and handholds. X Large casting platforms forward and

aft convert to comfortable seats with abundant stowage beneath. X Easy access to wiring, plumbing and

mechanical systems.

Low Points

X Some boaters will want larger engine

options. X Make sure the vent for the hull’s transom

pocket is open when running, or a vacuum will form that hurts performance. · LOA: 26'9" · BEAM: 9'3" · DRAFT: 1'2" (engine up) · DISPLACEMENT: 5,900 lb. (with engine) · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 17 degrees · FUEL CAPACITY: 107 gal. · WATER CAPACITY: 20 gal. · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 9'0" · MAX CABIN HEADROOM: 5'4" · MAX HORSEPOWER: 300 · AVAILABLE POWER: Single Yamaha F300

Price: $134,995 (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: 300 hp Yamaha F300 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series II 15.5" x 17" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.86:1 FUEL LOAD: 40 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 600 lb. R E G U L AT O R M A R I N E

Edenton, North Carolina; 252-482-3837; regulatormarine.com

SPEED rpm 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 5700

knots 4.4 6.0 7.1 7.8 8.5 13.6 23.8 27.5 33.0 36.9 38.3

EFFICIENCY mph 5.1 6.9 8.2 9.0 9.8 15.6 27.4 31.6 38.0 42.5 44.1

gph 1.3 2.1 3.7 5.6 8.0 10.0 12.5 15.1 21.1 26.2 26.4

OPERATION

naut. mpg

stat. mpg

n. mi. range

s. mi. range

angle

sound level

3.4 2.9 1.9 1.4 1.1 1.4 1.9 1.8 1.6 1.4 1.5

3.9 3.3 2.2 1.6 1.2 1.6 2.2 2.1 1.8 1.6 1.7

328.3 275.0 185.5 134.5 102.5 130.5 183.4 175.1 150.7 135.7 139.8

377.8 316.4 213.4 154.8 118.0 150.2 211.1 201.5 173.4 156.2 160.9

0 1 3 4 6 4 4 4 3 3 3

64 65 70 73 76 80 82 84 86 89 92

MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED

PHOTO: BILL DOSTER

tow bar. Top speed is in the mid-40s. Meanwhile, the hull’s 14-inch draft, moderate deadrise, transom hull pocket, and standard SeaStar Solutions hydraulic jack plate with a 6-inch setback make shallowwater operation easy, whether fishing or beaching at a sandbar. Other features appreciated by families and anglers alike include a hardtop that shades the helm and the seat forward of the console, well-placed grab handles, cup holders, and USB charging ports. The console houses a vented, lighted compartment with 60 inches of headroom and a standard portable toilet, but it can be fitted with a

uncomfortable

ιQ ӌNιP S I WιU EιO > XKQ NXKPI WXK EXKO @ adjective Having to explain why your boat still rolls.

“HONEY... WE’RE ROLLING”

seakeeper.com

High Points

X Michael Peters’ 20-degree transom

deadrise hull performs well in choppy seas. X Cockpit seating is ingenious and highly

flexible. X Great storage around the helm, with

chargers and USB plugs.

Low Points

X Bow roller and anchor are quite a spear

over the bow. X Grab handles would be appreciated by

JEANNEAU Leader 7.5 CC privacy and lots of storage equals happy families. Showers are located not just at the stern but also forward, and 32-inch-high gunwales keep kids secure. The cockpit almost requires a manual. It can be wide-open, it has fold-down seats on three sides and a central table, and it can

To see a photo gallery of the Jeanneau Leader 7.5 CC, visit boatingmag.com/3170.

which can be what you want it to be and then convert back easily. Center-consoles tend toward ﬁshing, so the 7.5 CC has all the usual amenities. These include a 52-inch ﬁsh box, rod racks in the coaming, and so forth. But Jeanneau positions the Leader 7.5 CC as a “cruising center-console” for family fun, and here’s where it shines the brightest. First of all, the entire center console is a private head (with either a builtin or portable toilet), since

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become a sun pad. The skipper and a companion get two comfy pedestal chairs behind a tidy dash with a 12inch Garmin display, Lenco trim tabs and stylish wraparound windscreen. Our test boat boasted the optional (but no-brainer) hardtop with power-coated frame and canvas sunshade. Forward, get the manual again. We started with a table with seating that wraps around on four sides—perfect for afternoons at the sandbar. Pull out a support framework and voila—the

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boat rated for 300 hp.

Toughest Competitor

X The Release 24 R ($85,810 powered

like our test boat) offers loads of seating and a generous head, but no mini galley or berth in the console.

entire bow is a sun pad. We tested with the Yamaha 300 outboard and, while a 250 is available, go for the 300. It has yank power for wakeboarding or skiing. We topped out at 50-plus mph, and you’ll want to warn your crew before you put the hammer down—it’s hang-on time! Jeanneau understands service access; the battery box is right there in a transom locker, the gas tank is under a cockpit hatch, and the neat, color-coded wiring is easy to trace for troubleshooting. This delightful French import is as welcome as a chocolate croissant. —Chris Caswell

· LOA: 24'4" · BEAM: 8'4" · DRAFT (MAX): 1'10" · DISPLACEMENT (APPROX.): 3,064 lb. · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 20 degrees · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 5'8" (with hardtop) · FUEL CAPACITY: 75 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER: 300 · AVAILABLE POWER: 250 to 300

Price: $81,800

AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :

O U T B OA R D

HOW WE TESTED ENGINE: 300 hp Yamaha F300 DRIVE/PROP: Yamaha 17" x 15.5" Saltwater Series II 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 75 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. JEANNEAU AMERICA

Annapolis, Maryland; 410-280-9400; jeanneauamerica.com

SPEED

C CERTIFIED

rpm 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 5900

knots 4.8 6.3 7.5 9.9 17.4 23.5 28.2 31.5 36.2 40.4 44.1

EFFICIENCY mph 5.5 7.2 8.6 11.4 20.0 27.1 32.4 36.2 41.7 46.5 50.7

gph 1.3 3.3 3.6 5.4 6.5 8.4 11.9 15.3 18.7 22.7 26.6

stat. mpg

n. mi. range

s. mi. range

angle

sound level

3.7 1.9 2.1 1.8 2.7 2.8 2.4 2.1 1.9 1.8 1.7

4.2 2.2 2.4 2.1 3.1 3.2 2.7 2.4 2.2 2.0 1.9

248.2 128.0 140.1 123.8 180.5 189.2 159.7 138.8 130.8 120.2 111.8

285.6 147.3 161.3 142.5 207.7 217.8 183.8 159.7 150.5 138.3 128.7

0 1 2 2 3 2 1 2 1 1 1

71 73 76 78 80 80 82 82 84 89 89

TEST MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED

RESULTS

OPERATION

naut. mpg

PHOTO: COURTESY JEANNEAU AMERICA

“Convertibility” is a word that pops up often when Nick Harvey, president of Jeanneau America, talks about the new Jeanneau Leader 7.5 CC center-console. Born and bred in France and now living in Maryland, Harvey might be melding French and English, but it perfectly describes this 25-footer,

bow riders. X We’d like to see more fuel capacity in a

PASSION. PRECISION. PERFORMANCE

TESTS #3171

High Points

X Affordable price point doesn’t mean a

bland, single-color interior. Choices include cognac, tan or gray. X In-floor ski locker is supersize, with a

wide access hatch to accommodate larger items. X Deep bow and swim platforms are ideal

for fishing, coving and watersports, as well as boarding at a dock or beach.

Low Points

X Storage liner is not fully finished above

the gas tank, leaving gaps that may swallow up smaller items.

STARCRAFT SVX 211 OB

X Outboards may be visible, but novice

captains would still benefit from a standard trim position gauge. X Pull straps would make it easier to

open the hinged seat cushions that conceal stowage within.

Toughest Competitor

X NauticStar’s 203 SC (promotional

pedestal seats. Get fishier with a trolling motor. Watersports junkies will appreciate a ski-tow pole. Additional options include gelcoat hull striping, full snap-in Marine Mat cockpit flooring, bow filler cushions and cockpit table, and additional rear-facing speakers.

To watch our video review of the Starcraft SVX 211 OB, visit boatingmag.com/3171.

notice much scrimping. The fiberglass helm sports a faux-leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth-ready Jensen stereo (coupled to four speakers), and bucket helm seat with flip-up bolster. Telescoping ladders bow and stern ease water access whether nosed into the beach or anchored out. Stainless-steel grab rails, a Bimini top, and comfy Marine Mat flooring on both the bow and stern platforms were likewise included. Options? A fishing package adds a livewell and two

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The SVX’s layout proves practical. Seating essentially rings the perimeter, starting with parallel couches in the bow and culminating in an L-shaped bench that spans the port side and across the transom. Combined with the pivoting helm seat, that makes 14 seats. Lone interruptions include a step onto the forward platform, starboard-side transom walk-through, and a simple portside galley with sink and cup holders. Option up for the freshwater tank and pump faucet system.

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A Suzuki 200 powered our test boat, an upgrade from the base 115 hp engine. It planed in 4.3 seconds, powered past 30 mph in 7.6, and peaked at a respectable 46.6 mph. The 200 offers welcome growing room as a novice boater’s skill and comfort levels increase. Below, a new hull design carries the load, featuring a dihedral V with a stern pad that promises to improve performance and maximize fuel economy by delivering water to the prop with less resistance. At 3,500 rpm, we noted a 6 gph fuel burn while running at 25 mph. —Jeff Hemmel

pricing of $32,269 with a Yamaha 115).

· LOA: 20'11" · BEAM: 8'6" · DRAFT (MAX): 2'11" · DISPLACEMENT: 2,685 lb. · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 14 degrees · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 4'0" · FUEL CAPACITY: 45 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER: 200 · AVAILABLE POWER: Single gasoline outboards to 200 hp

Price: $38,170 (with 115 hp)

AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :

O U T B OA R D HOW WE TESTED ENGINE: Suzuki 200 DRIVE/PROP: Outboard/Suzuki 16" x 21.5" 3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 2.50:1 FUEL LOAD: 34 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 340 lb. S TA R C R A F T M A R I N E

New Paris, Indiana; 574-831-2950; starcraftmarine.com

SPEED

C CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS

EFFICIENCY

rpm

knots

mph

gph

naut. mpg

1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 6000 6300

4.00 5.56 6.78 8.52 10.17 21.72 27.72 29.63 33.89 37.89 39.10 40.49

4.60 6.40 7.80 9.80 11.70 25.00 31.90 34.10 39.00 43.60 45.00 46.60

0.70 1.20 2.00 3.00 4.10 6.00 7.90 8.20 12.10 16.20 17.00 18.00

5.71 4.63 3.39 2.84 2.48 3.62 3.51 3.61 2.80 2.34 2.30 2.25

MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED

OPERATION

stat. mpg

n. mi. range

s. mi. range

angle

sound level

6.57 5.33 3.90 3.27 2.85 4.17 4.04 4.16 3.22 2.69 2.65 2.59

231 188 137 115 100 147 142 146 113 95 93 91

266 216 158 132 116 169 164 168 131 109 107 105

0 1 3 5 7 4 3 3 3 3 3 3

61 66 67 69 76 79 83 83 84 87 89 89

PHOTO: BILL DOSTER

Starcraft’s SVX 211 OB won’t break the bank, but it will entertain a crowd, perform admirably, and tow your favorite watersports. The price is kept down by offering fewer standards and allowing buyers to option to suit their lifestyle. Still, we didn’t

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*At participating dealers only. Qualifying retail customers may receive instant savings off the selling price of a Honda powered boat package or Honda Marine engine(s) sold for repower. This promotion is limited to new Honda Marine 40 HP through 250 HP outboard engines, 2014 and newer models, sold and delivered between January 2, 2020 and March 31, 2020 and registered by the Dealer in accordance with American Honda Motor Co., Inc.’s sales registration requirements. Only Honda Marine outboard engines sold for personal use qualify for this promotion. Fleet, commercial & government sales are ineligible. Engines sold under special pricing / promotions including (but not limited to) demo and tournament fisherman engines are also excluded. Honda Marine reserves the right to modify, amend, cancel or revoke, in whole or in part, this promotion at any time without prior notice. © 2020 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Always wear a personal flotation device while boating and read your owner’s manual. All Honda outboards meet EPA and CARB emission levels.

High Points

X Diamond Hull allows for a soft, easily

crossed slalom wake and minimal spray, plus good-size wakes and waves. X Attention to detail and styling is as good

as it gets. X Choice of towers and options, such as

center-mounted ski pylon and short wing windshield.

MALIBU Wakesetter 20 VTX

Low Points

X We’d add a windshield wiper. X Our test boat’s ski tower rattled

somewhat at high speed.

Toughest Competitor

X Shopping? Look at the Nautique Super

helps generate respectable wakeboard and wakesurf waves, yet still allows slalom skiing. We noted a soft, readily crossable wake at slalom speeds and little spray during our test. Option up for the short wing windshield, center-mounted ski pylon and TXi Performance

To see a photo gallery of the Malibu Wakesetter 20 VTX, visit boatingmag.com/3172.

throttle control whether ballasted down or running light and fast. I’ve visited the facility where Malibu builds these engines and came away impressed with the attention to detail in build that enables them to earn the highest efficiency rating there is, the CARB ﬁve-star rating. Key service points are easy to access and, as our chart shows, the M5Di proved quiet underway. The feature that best bestows three-sport cred upon the 20 VTX is the Diamond Hull. Specially shaped, it

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Tower, the mounting geometry of which allows a slalom tow line to swing across the cockpit. Then pro rider Massimiliano Piffaretti broke out his board. We deployed the Malibu Power Wedge III—a hydrofoil delivering response equal to 1,500 pounds of ballast—and the wake grew. Then we ﬁlled the ballast tanks and adjusted Malibu’s Surf Gate (vertically mounted trim tabs that help shape waves) to Massi’s liking, and things got cool fast. Hey, the 20 VTX

9 6 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0

Air Nautique GS 20 (starting at $110,040 with a 355 hp PCM ZZ5 5.3L DI).

is no 25-footer, but it generates really respectable wakes and waves. How to do it? The 12-inch MaliView touchscreen uses graphics, and it affords ﬁngertap control of the ballast, Power Wedge III, Surf Gate and navigation. After a few trips, you’ll discover how to set up presets for rider preferences, media controls and a variety of gauge displays. Really, it’s easy. Seeking a top-of-the-line, triple-sport boat that’s easily trailerable and will even ﬁt in many garages? Go ahead and demo a Malibu Wakesetter 20 VTX. —Kevin Falvey

· LOA: 20'0" · BEAM: 8'2" · DRAFT (MAX): 2'3" · DISPLACEMENT (APPROX.): 5,843 lb. · TRANSOM DEADRISE: NA · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 3'6" (top of windshield) · FUEL CAPACITY: 38 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER: 360 · AVAILABLE POWER: Single Malibu Monsoon M5Di or M6Di inboard to 430 hp

Price: $105,690 (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: 360 hp Malibu Monsoon M5Di DRIVE/ PROP: V-drive/15" x 13" 3-blade bronze GEAR RATIO: 1.50:1 FUEL LOAD: 19 gal. WATER ON BOARD: 0 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 400 lb. M A L I B U B O AT S

Loudon, Tennessee; 865-458-5478; malibuboats.com

SPEED

C CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS

EFFICIENCY

rpm

knots

mph

gph

naut. mpg

1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5603

4.61 6.08 7.13 8.78 18.38 22.94 26.07 29.68 32.85 35.58

5.30 7.00 8.20 10.10 21.15 26.40 30.00 34.15 37.80 40.95

1.08 2.09 3.60 6.00 7.00 8.60 10.70 13.30 16.90 23.20

4.26 2.91 1.98 1.46 2.63 2.67 2.44 2.23 1.94 1.53

MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED

OPERATION

stat. mpg

n. mi. range

s. mi. range

angle

sound level

4.91 3.35 2.28 1.68 3.02 3.07 2.80 2.57 2.24 1.77

146 100 68 50 90 91 83 76 66 52

168 115 78 58 103 105 96 88 76 60

0 1 3 5 3 3 2 2 1 1

60 63 66 71 74 79 83 85 90 96

PHOTO: COURTESY MALIBU BOATS

Can one boat do it all? Malibu’s Wakesetter 20 VTX excels for skiing, wakeboarding and wakesurﬁng. Our test boat was powered by a 360 hp Malibu Monsoon M5Di engine. Developing 400 foot-pounds of torque at 3,600 rpm, this engine delivered awesome

There’s a reason they say, Curse like a sailor. That’s why we offer basic plans starting at $100 a year with options that won’t depreciate your watercraft and accessories*. 1.800.PROGRESSIVE | PROGRESSIVE.COM

TESTS #3173

High Points

X All EX models boast the best capacities

in the Rec Lite category, with 13.2 gallons of fuel capacity and 7.7 gallons of standard storage. X Two-tone Hydro-Turf EVA traction

mats, a spring-loaded boarding step, and dual mirrors are all standard. X Glove box is exceptionally deep, with

room for multiple water bottles, sunscreen, a towrope, etc.

Low Points

X Bow storage is shallow; many items,

including a spare life jacket, won’t make the cut. X Taller riders may feel oversize on

YAMAHA WaveRunner EXR now-110 hp engine also features an increased 8,000 rpm rev limit, a 700 rpm boost over the existing 7,300 rpm threshold. Other changes include a top-loading intake grate to better feed the pump and provide increased traction in turns, a 40 mm pump extension to

To see our online photo gallery of the Yamaha WaveRunner EXR, go to boatingmag.com/3173.

The result is the EXR—what company reps enthusiastically dub a “crotch rocket.” Adding power and dropping weight proved simple. Swapping conventional hull construction for Yamaha’s high-tech Nano 2 system reduces the EXR’s weight to 540 pounds, a 60-pound drop from the otherwise comparable EX Deluxe. Added power comes from modifying the engine control unit (ECU), which ups the 1,049 cc three-cylinder TR-1 engine’s horsepower by roughly 10 percent. The

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boost acceleration response, and even a slight change to a throatier exhaust note. The result is a signiﬁcant bump in overall fun factor and a nod to favored Yamaha two-strokes of old. Grabbing a handful of throttle, I noted the EXR responded with a raw quickness missing in the craft’s tamer EX siblings. Keeping it pegged, the GPS edged upward of 54.5 mph, nearly 5 mph faster than other EX models. More fun than the increased straightline speed came when I punched it, shifted my

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Toughest Competitor

X Sea-Doo’s three-passenger Spark

TRIXX ($8,099) boasts 90 hp and weighs a mere 438 pounds, likewise giving it punchy acceleration, albeit a slightly slower 50 mph top speed. The EXR is the superior craft in rough-water conditions, as well as roomier for the occasional second and third person. The Spark is the more playful craft, with adjustable-height handlebars, footwell wedges and an extended nozzle trim, making tricks—like actual wheelies— a breeze.

weight off the stern, and spun 180s or power-slid into turns. The potential airtime is often missing with today’s heavier, bulkier models. Though deﬁnitely performance-minded, the EXR does feature a few notable extras, such as RiDE, Yamaha’s dual control system that gives forward and reverse thrust separate throttles on opposite sides of the handlebar. The intuitive system eases docking and tight-quarters maneuvering at low speed by redirecting thrust via measured use of the reverse bucket. That same thrust redirection can also provide signiﬁcant stopping power when applied at speed. —Jeff Hemmel

C CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS

· LOA: 10'3.6" · BEAM: 3'8.5" · DRY WEIGHT: 540 lb. · DISPLACEMENT: 1,049 cc · FUEL CAPACITY: 13.2 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER: 110

Price: $9,299 AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :

JET DRIVE HOW WE TESTED ENGINE: Yamaha Marine TR-1 High Output 1,049 cc PUMP/IMPELLER: 144 mm high-pressure pump with stainless-steel impeller GEAR RATIO: 1.00:1 FUEL LOAD: 10 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 155 lb. YA M A H A

Kennesaw, Georgia; 800-962-7926; yamahawaverunners.com

NUMBER OF RIDERS

TOP SPEED (MPH)

S T O WA G E CA PAC I T Y (GAL.)

7.7

A P P L I C AT I O N : R E C R E AT I O N A L / TOURING

PHOTO: COURTESY YAMAHA MOTOR CORP. USA

Low-cost, recreationally minded personal watercraft have proven to be a huge hit with new riders, but hardcore types also ﬂock to them, due to agility and light weight. Yamaha gave these aggressive types the last piece of the puzzle: a better horsepower-to-weight ratio.

the craft and have trouble seeing the information display.

Inside the Mercury NVH labs Our now-retired colleague Bob Stearns once remarked that he thought a two-stroke outboard “sounds like it’s going to throw a rod right through the block.” This was 30 years ago, and to be fair, Stearns spoke with a bit of a cackle himself. But the point is, a marine engine’s sound makes an impression. Managing that sound is a science that’s important to both regulators and marketers; it’s so important that Mercury Marine recently invested $10 million in a new 20,000-square-foot NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) Technical Center at its Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, campus. Merc says it’s the largest and most expensive facility of its kind in the marine industry. “Delivering superior NVH characteristics provides an enhanced user experience for our customers and ultimately gives us a competitive advantage in the market,” says Andrew Waisanen, manager of the NVH & Structures Group at Mercury Marine. “Engineering low vibration levels into the product also leads to increased durability.” NVH is the study of

sensations we hear and feel, particularly as related to vehicles. Mercury constructed its first hemi-anechoic chamber (what some call a soundproof room) in Oshkosh in 1971, then opened a larger and more sophisticated NVH lab in Fond du Lac in 1999, with a single 665-square-foot hemi-anechoic chamber. The new NVH Technical Center features two 1,200-square-foot chambers, each capable of testing engines up to 1,000 horsepower. Because these are marine engines, water is required, and there’s a 66,000-gallon tank below the floor of each chamber. The engine to be tested is mounted over a hole in the floor in the center of the chamber. The new building also houses a vessel bay that

Mufﬂing predominate intake and exhaust sound can reveal new noises of curious origins. During the development of the Mercury 2.1-liter outboards, the engineering team became puzzled by a high-pitched whistle. The source was pinpointed in

1 0 0 | B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0

can accommodate boats up to 45 feet in length, used to rig and install instruments on boats for on-water NVH testing, and a dedicated “modal analysis and MOI/CG” bay, used for measuring vibration characteristics and mass/inertia properties of engines and components. Siting the building was a challenge on property directly adjacent to a six-lane highway and

not far from a regional airport. Engineers went so far as to conduct ground-vibration studies. The hemi-anechoic chambers are isolated within the building, supported on giant springs—you can see a rubber gasket at the entrance doorway threshold—to shield them from vibration. The walls and ceiling are covered by a perforated steel wedge frame ﬁlled with absorbing material

the NVH lab using an acoustic holographic array, a device with an HD camera surrounded by 54 microphones used to visually project a sound ﬁeld onto a test subject to discover the exact location of a noise. In the case of the 2.1-liter motor,

that source was the crankshaft position sensor that collects impulses from teeth on top of the ﬂywheel—the sound was air whizzing between the sensor and the teeth. The shape of the sensor was changed, and the sound disappeared.

PHOTOS: COURTESY MERCURY MARINE

SOUND BUSINESS

that creates an environment similar to being on a boat in open water, where there are no surfaces to reﬂect noise back toward the operator. The new chambers achieve a noise ﬂoor that’s more than 10 decibels lower than the previous facility, according to Waisanen. The collective cost of microphone-related instrumentation and data-acquisition equipment in each chamber is about $150,000, according to Waisanen. That includes a binaural microphone system that looks like a human head and torso to accurately mimic the way we hear. The combination of microphones in each ear and the shape of the head provide an accurate spatial dimension to the sound recording when played back through a set of

headphones; the listener can instinctively identify the location a sound is coming from, such as in front of or behind the listener. The binaural microphone system is primarily used to provide

realistic, high-ﬁdelity sound recordings that can be used for subjective analysis and jury evaluations, analysis used to identify sounds to eliminate or desired sounds to highlight. The

sound can be tuned for a speciﬁc market, which is why a highperformance Pro XS outboard sounds much different than a Verado. And neither sounds like it’s about to throw a rod.

PHOTO: COURTESY MERCURY MARINE

BOAT DOCTOR ///

SOLACE

PHOTO: FOREST JOHNSON

345

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SCA N ME Learn more about the Solace 345 and past Boat of the Year winners. Scan this tag or visit boatingmag.com/boatoftheyear.

he mantra Boating’s editorial staff lives by with respect to choosing the Boat of the Year is “category killer.” We don’t always get one. But we did this year. As time goes by, boats keep getting better and better. One need not look too far back to a time when some real junk boats coexisted with some mighty fine craft. Today, the spread between good and bad—between innovative and run-of-the-mill—is narrower. Market forces, technological advances, government regulation and more-informed boaters can all take credit for this sea change. Recreational powerboating, now about a century old, is a maturing sport.

This year, though, after testing some 150 different types of boats built by dozens of manufacturers, the Solace 345 (featured in the November/December 2019 issue) stood out as a killer design. Its arrangement, which extends the cockpit aft between widely spaced outboards, is as much a stand-alone innovation as it is an integration of the latest in propulsion, with courageous design and flawless execution. This feature may influence boats on the whole in the future, but the Solace 345 center-console fishing boat stands out for numerous other attributes. For these reasons, we name the Solace 345 our 2019 Boat of the Year. —Kevin Falvey

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ARE YOU IN GOOD HANDS? TWELVE BOAT-INSURANCE DETAILS YOU NEVER THOUGHT TO ASK ABOUT BY KEVIN FALVEY ILLUSTRATIONS BY TIM BOWER

s an experienced boater, you probably know a thing or two about boat-insurance policies. For instance, when buying boat insurance, you’d likely ask whether the policy pays the agreed value or the actual cash value of the boat. Also, you may know about a trend similar to auto insurance in which boat insurers now offer 24/7 on-water and on-road towing services—but these may not be right for every boater. You probably know these things and more. But how can you know what you don’t know? We asked BoatU.S., one of the largest recreational marine insurers, for a list of uncommon boat-insurance policy waivers and riders not typically included in basic policies. These items may add cost to your insurance, but they might also save the day if you ever need them. We’re not saying you need them, nor do we assert that this is a complete list. We simply want to arm you with knowledge of what to ask for when buying boat insurance.

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TOTAL-SALVAGE COVERAGE et’s say a storm deposits your boat in a marsh hundreds of yards from a road or the water. (This happens to many boats during named storms, according to BoatU.S.) Since equipment can neither be driven nor ﬂoated over to the boat, and because of environmental regulations, retrieving the boat, which might be basically unharmed, can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Consider this coverage even if you want to purchase a basic liability policy to simply meet the requirements of your marina and have no interest in insuring the value of your boat—this is also a consideration for boaters in hurricane-prone areas. BoatU.S. recommends salvage-coverage dollar limits that are separate from your hull coverage but equal to it. That’s because some companies limit salvage coverage to a small percentage of the policy’s hull

WE ALL KNOW THE STORIES—SOME MAY HAVE EXPERIENCED IT FIRSTHAND—OF TORN STERNDRIVE BELLOWS OR BROKEN THROUGH-HULL FITTINGS CAUSING BOATS TO SINK. value, in essence making the boater pay for more salvage costs out of pocket. FUEL-SPILL COVERAGE ederal law makes boaters responsible for fuel spilled for any reason. It could be that oil in the bilge from a sloppy oil change gets discharged when your bilge pump kicks on, or maybe the boat sinks in the slip, and fuel

or oil leaks as a result. However it happens, environmental damage assessments levied for fuel spills can range to almost $1 million, and the cost of cleanup may be charged as well—a fee that may dwarf the ﬁne. Fuel-spill coverage should be considered even if seeking a basic liability policy, but it can be better to have separate coverage because it will likely cover more. Fuel-spill coverage is a consideration

DON’T BE COMPLETELY SUNK Boating creates boating maintenance and DIY content in large part to help prevent the events that require consequential-damage coverage.

hull fittings causing boats to sink. Some policies, while they cover the sinking, will exclude coverage if it happens as a result of consequential damage such as a failed bellows or seacock.

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only applies to total losses, so ask about that. Other examples of consequential-damage situations include dismasting, collision, stranding, fire and explosion.

KEEPING YOUR HEALTH AFLOAT Watersports and offshoreﬁshing coverage is common, though scuba diving is an activity excluded by most boat-insurance companies. (Get it through the Professional Association of Diving Instructors.)

MEDICAL PAYMENTS COVERAGE Medical payments coverage provides for out-of-pocket expenses not covered by the injured person’s health insurance—things such as copayments and deductibles. It provides a per-person limit of coverage for any injury that occurs aboard the insured boat, regardless of liability. Many insurers cap the payout of

for all boaters whose vessels have fuel tanks, but those who boat near sensitive ecosystems such as coral reefs, oyster beds and wetlands might want to give fuel-spill coverage an even closer look. UNINSURED BOATER his boat-insurance coverage likely rings familiar for boaters with automobile insurance because it is similar to the uninsured motorist coverage some auto drivers purchase. For the uninitiated, this provides additional coverage for bodily injuries aboard your boat caused by a collision with a hitand-run boater, where the other boater either takes off without being caught or is operating without insurance, as the name implies. Note that many boats and boaters are uninsured because boat insurance is not required in most places.

this coverage at $1,000, but some offer higher limits for a higher premium. Medical payments coverage might best warrant the attention of boaters active in watersports, such as water-skiing or wakeboarding, offshore fishing, or other boating activities wherein injuries might more likely occur.

HURRICANE HAUL-OUT COVERAGE K, this one is pretty much a well-known must for boaters in hurricane country who keep their boats in the water, but for those boaters moving to the coast from inland areas, or new boaters, we’re including it

in the article. In a nutshell, this coverage pays a portion of the costs to have the boat hauled, prepared, and secured or tied down by professionals, or moved by a licensed captain. As an example, the BoatU.S. Marine Insurance Program pays 50 percent of the cost of labor up to $1,000

FUEL-SPILL COVERAGE SHOULD BE CONSIDERED EVEN IF SEEKING A BASIC LIABILITY POLICY, SO ASK ABOUT IT, BUT IT CAN BE BETTER TO HAVE SEPARATE COVERAGE BECAUSE IT WILL LIKELY COVER MORE. B O AT I N G M A G . C O M | J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0 | 1 0 9

to have the boat hauled or moved or, if you are out of town, have a professional prepare your boat, and the haul-out does not penalize the policyholder. Before purchasing this coverage, we recommend asking boat haulers for an estimate of the cost of a hurricane haul-out as described above. That way, you will be in a better position to know whether you want it. BOAT TRAILER COVERAGE f you were to get into an accident while trailering your boat, your boat policy may pay for any loss-related repairs to the trailer (check—it is often separate coverage and not included), but any damage caused by the trailer to other persons or property would be up to your tow-vehicle insurance to cover. Naturally, this coverage is best considered by trailer

WHAT A PARTIAL LOSS DEPRECIATION WAIVER DOES, IF YOU ADD IT ON, IS ESSENTIALLY STOP THE CLOCK AND CONTINUE TO PAY “NEW FOR OLD” CLAIM RATES ON THESE ITEMS. boaters. Also, be sure to ﬁnd out if there are any geographical limits to the coverage. PARTIAL LOSS DEPRECIATION WAIVER f you are a boater who owns an older boat, one that is, say, 15 or 20 years old, you’ll want to know about this

coverage and decide whether it is for you or not. You see, many insurers depreciate major items such as canvas, engines, generators or sails at a steep rate after two years. That means as your boat ages, the “new for old” ﬁnancial-advantage beneﬁt of some insurance coverage is lost. What a partial loss depreciation waiver does, if you

CRUISINGEXTENSION COVERAGE Maybe you are a California boater who likes to cruise into Mexican waters. Or perhaps you are from Florida and like to visit the Bahamas. Your boat insurance probably does not cover you in these areas unless you procure cruising-extension coverage. Typically, you purchase this coverage by calling your insurer prior to each trip. However, some companies offer upfront approval for certain cruising destinations, which can eliminate the need to call and order the coverage every time you cruise. Also note that coverage might not be available for cruising to some countries, such as Cuba, Haiti and Venezuela.

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GO AHEAD, CROSS THAT LINE e encourage you to cruise your boat over as many far horizons as possible. Just be aware that your insurance may not go along for the ride.

add it on, is essentially stop the clock and continue to pay “new for old” claim rates on these items.

DON’T BE A TOTAL LOSER

DINGHY/MARINE ELECTRONICS ENDORSEMENT nsurance policies for expensive vessels often carry high deductibles. If the boater has separate coverage for the dinghy and electronics, the decision to ﬁle a claim for a lost dinghy or stolen marine electronics can be easier to make. Some might think this is just for large boats, but we can say that, as a result of testing so many new boats, many boats as small as 23 or 25 feet are often equipped with $15,000 in electronics. If you cruise far and wide or boat in an area where crime is high, you might want to think about purchasing a dinghy or marine electronics endorsement.

Competitive ﬁshing can cost a lot of money in entry fees, and requires liability insurance and the necessary tackle. An angling endorsement is for such anglers.

WATERSPORTS COVERAGE ike an angling endorsement, expensive equipment is provided with higher-limit coverage, and entry fees into tournaments might be reimbursed if you must miss out for a covered reason. This coverage can be bundled, as BoatU.S. does, combining actual cash value for boards, skis, and scuba or snorkel gear with increased medical payments coverage and entryfee reimbursement for competitive wakeboarders or water skiers. If you can afford to own a boat, you probably know all too well that insurance companies are not in business to pay claims—they make money collecting premiums. That said, make sure your boat-insurance needs meet your ﬁnancial requirements as well as your tolerance for risk. Questioning the coverage proposed to you is smart shopping. Hopefully, this article helps you to do just that.

ANGLER COVERAGE If you own lots of expensive fishing gear and/or you fish competitively in tournaments, give an angling endorsement a look. It is often offered as a bundle of fishing-gear coverage, tournament entry-fee reimbursement and tournament liability coverage. For the gear, higher limits are placed than on policies without the angling endorsement. Also, should a claim—such as for an on-the-road accident or a stolen boat—cause you to have to withdraw from a tournament, this coverage will reimburse your entry fee. Ask if your insurer caps this amount, as some insurers may do so. As a side note, it’s important to understand that many fishing tournaments will require you to carry $500,000 in liability coverage as an entered angler.

THREE TYPES OF INSURANCE POLICIES The coverages listed prior are often optional. Before you even begin to select them, you must choose from one of three basic policy types listed here. AGREED HULL VALUE: An agreed hull value policy is the most common one, and with this policy you and your insurer agree to the value to be paid on the vessel in the event of a total loss. Boaters of all types might like an agreed hull value policy.

ACTUAL CASH VALUE: This differs from agreed hull value in that if the boat is a total loss, it pays out based on the market value of the boat at the time, and may have more depreciation on partial losses. These cost less, and appeal to frugal boaters or boaters willing to shoulder more cost in a loss.

LIABILITY ONLY: This policy pays for the damage caused to others, including bodily injury (people) and property. It does not cover the insured boater’s boat. Better liability policies include oil-spill and fullsalvage coverage. Not concerned with hull value coverage? Select liability only.

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FLYING BRIDGE VERSUS EXPRESS

uilding a model within a model is a frequent theme at the Viking Yacht Company, utilizing a hull to build a variation of distinct choices that cater to the specific needs of its customers. The new inboard diesel-powered Viking 38 Billfish and the 38 Open Billfish are prime examples and provided a good opportunity to compare the two popular boat types.

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With speed and range, the 38 Billfish is a midsize convertible sport-fisherman that doubles nicely as a bluewater tournament contender, with ample overnight accommodations for the cruising family. The result is a nice compromise that covers all the bases when flexibility is required to meet a variety of on-the-water missions and experiences. Despite the flying-bridge boat’s amenities and

PHOTO: COURTESY VIKING YACHT COMPANY

VIKING 38 OPEN BILLFISH

VIKING 38 BILLFISH features, Viking provides alternate opportunities in the same length overall with the 38 Open Billﬁsh, an express-style cruiser that checks all the boxes in a handsome, racy-looking package. Faced with these choices, deciding which model best suits your needs requires due diligence, but it’s a fun ride and worth the trip to examine each boat to appreciate what makes it special.

PHOTO: COURTESY VIKING YACHT COMPANY

RUNNING The 38 Billfish has an open flying bridge with a topside walk-around helm station. The visibility is excellent because of the height above the water, giving the operator an unobstructed view to all 32 points of the compass, perfect for fishing while watching the baits, as well as negotiating the surroundings while underway. Flanking lounges as well as a seat forward of the console provide ample room for guests to spread out and relax while taking in the views. A raised fiberglass dash is

home for electronic navigation and communication equipment, as well as a fiberglass helm pod that can be customized with faux-teak finish, single-lever engine controls, and a stainless-steel steering wheel. The SeaStar Solutions Optimus steering is obedient and responsive, and delivers swift maneuverability with a light touch on the wheel. A ladder-back Release helm chair is standard. The available fiberglass hardtop and the Costa Clear enclosure provide weather protection. The Viking-made composite hardtop also features a compartment for recessed teaser reels, additional engine instrumentation and tri-color overhead lights. In place of the flybridge station, the 38 Open’s helm is on the main deck, a few steps from the 109-square-foot cockpit. Unlike the flybridge helm where the operator is in his own world while running the boat and somewhat isolated from the activity in the cockpit, the 38 Open’s skipper is in the middle of the action, a feature

Viking’s debut of the 38 Billﬁsh and 38 Open Billﬁsh provides an opportunity to compare two desirable boat layouts. By Peter Frederiksen

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that appeals to fishermen who are apt to go boating short-handed of regular crew. Adding more conversation points, the command-deck helm comprises its center of attention with a companion seat to port and flanking L-shaped lounges. Guests sit high on the seats, affording good visibility and sociability with the helmsman. Electrically powered actuators lift the lounges for engine-room access, similar to the 38 Billfish. Mechanical installations— like those found aboard its stablemate—are top-notch. To enhance visibility at the helm, the operator stands on a raised platform or sits in a Release Marine helm seat. A fiberglass pod contains the engine controls and steering wheel, while electronics and a radio box nest forward and to port of the helm. A Costa Clear enclosure keeps the weather at bay. OUR TAKE: Compared to an express-style

sans tower, a ﬂybridge boat will always have a better view from the helm thanks to its height above the waterline.

Performance-wise, the Open Billfish is about 2 knots faster at top-end speed. Part of this is due to the approximate 1-ton difference in weight, but also the Palm Beach Towers’ tuna tower produces less wind resistance than the flybridge and its enclosure. Visibility from the tower is superb, and operating the 38 Open from the tower is an experience, not only for fishing but also when running through the shallows while exploring the Bahamas, where reading the water is a critical

factor. So, it makes sense for many boaters to buy a tower for an express boat such as the 38 Open, unless bridge clearance is an issue. An express boat with the helm closer to water level needs to plane quickly for better sightlines—a factor not as relevant with a ﬂying-bridge boat—so check that it does so when shopping. Both Billﬁsh models proved sturdy handlers. The raked entry and 12-degree transom deadrise smooth out the ruts in a seaway. OUR TAKE: It’s a tie…with a slight edge

to the express, if top speed is a hot button for you.

AMENITIES

The upper station on the tower of the 38 Open Billﬁsh. Though optional, pretty much everyone orders the boat with a tower installed.

The three-sided deckhouse of the 38 Billﬁsh with 81 inches of headroom is straightawaypractical, with creature comforts and ease of upkeep. Molded nonslip on the ﬁberglass sole provides sure-footedness and fast cleanups. The port side features a

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fiberglass table surrounded by a U-shaped lounge for four that converts to a berth for two. A nearby refrigerator keeps drinks handy without the need for ice runs to fill a cockpit cooler. A second lounge is on the starboard-side, which also conceals fishingrod stowage below. If desired, the 38 Billfish also can be ordered with a lower helm station in place of the starboard bench-style seat. This has become a popular option with boaters choosing to extend their season in the northern climes, as well as for those in tropical areas looking for more sun protection. The lower helm also can be equipped with reverse-cycle air conditioning, and climate control can be regulated by dropping the Costa Clear aft command-deck enclosure. Having an inviting salon means that when you come back from a day of fishing or cruising, there is a sizable and fully protected area to relax on the boat, an item that a large center console simply does not offer.

PHOTOS: COURTESY VIKING YACHT COMPANY

PERFORMANCE

About Brunswick Headquartered in Mettawa, Ill., Brunswick Corporation’s leading consumer brands include Mercury Marine outboard engines; Mercury MerCruiser sterndrive and inboard packages; Mercury global parts and accessories including propellers and SmartCraft electronics; Power Products Integrated Solutions; MotorGuide trolling motors; Attwood, Garelick, and Whale marine parts; Land ’N’ Sea, BLA, Payne’s Marine, Kellogg Marine, and Lankhorst Taselaar marine parts distribution; Mercury and Quicksilver parts and oils; Bayliner, Boston Whaler, Crestliner, Cypress Cay, Harris, Heyday, Lowe, Lund, Princecraft, Quicksilver, Rayglass, Sea Ray, Thunder Jet and Uttern boats; Boating Services Network, Freedom Boat Club, NAUTIC-ON, OnBoard Boating Club and Rentals. For more information, visit https://www.brunswick.com.

About Princecraft Boats Inc. Since 1954, Princecraft Boats Inc., headquartered in Princeville, Quebec, Canada, creates unparalleled experiences on the water for fishing and boating enthusiasts with "professionally rigged and ready" packages of aluminum fishing boats, pontoon boats and deck boats. Its commitment is borne out of a deeply rooted heritage of unmatched craftsmanship, incomparable performance and the promise of years of trouble-free boating. More fishermen, families and dealers than ever join the Princecraft family, and create some of the best moments of their lives. Princecraft Boats Inc.

2019 | A Brunswick Company

and serves as a comfortable perch for watching the ﬂat-screen television on the aft bulkhead. A table would be a nice addition, although none was available on our test boat, hinting perhaps at the builder’s approach to make the 38 Open Billﬁsh a more casual vessel rather than a

full-fledged convertible. Nonetheless, one step up from the Amtico vinyl sole is a pair of berths in the forepeak that feature a double and single bunk in crossover style. The enclosed head was surprisingly large, especially the fiberglass shower stall. Aboard the 38 Billfish, a glassand-aluminum door leads to the airconditioned lower accommodations with Amtico flooring, a galley, head and private sleeping area. Viking’s hallmark craftsmanship shines, with abundant high-gloss teak joinery, maple-lined cabinetry, drawers and hanging lockers. The L-shaped galley is equipped with an electric two-burner cooktop, a microwave/convection oven, stainless-steel sink, Corian countertops, refrigerator, freezer, and an eye-level AC/DC power-distribution panel. Similar attention to detail is found in the enclosed head with Corian counters, vanity and medicine cabinet, fiberglass shower stall and Dometic marine toilet. The master stateroom with an island double berth features an innerspring mattress, flat-screen television, stereo system with CD/DVD player, a pair of maple-lined hanging lockers and a Bomar hatch for ventilation. An optional layout offers double and single crossover berths. With its semi-enclosed deckhouse, the 38 Billfish has an amenities edge over the 38 Open’s express layout.

OUR

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TAKE:

PHOTOS: COURTESY VIKING YACHT COMPANY

Similarly, if you are looking for a place to have a meal, the deckhouse area is a wellsuited social area. As much as the 38 Billfish brings to the party with comfort and amenities, the 38 Open Billfish matches its sistership while approaching its mission with a totally different outlook and style. With its express panache, the 38 Open appears in fluid motion even while tied to the dock. The curved wraparound aluminum-frame windshield melds neatly in the fiberglass deck structure, while the Palm Beach Towers’ tuna tower is the icing on the cake. Aboard the 38 Open Billfish, a bi-fold glass-and-aluminum door leads to the air-conditioned lower accommodations. A teak staircase descends to a spacious cabin that takes full advantage of the boat’s 14-foot beam. An in-line galley to port carries the same appliances as the 38 Billfish, including the electric cooktop, microwave/convention oven, refrigerator and freezer, Corian countertops and stainless-steel sink, and similar stowage capacity for cookware and utensils. The lounge on the starboard-side also includes nap space and stowage galore,

VACATION WITH US AT MOORINGS.COM/BOATING | 800.669.6529

DREAM LESS. DO MORE.

The cockpits of both boats are nearly identical and, as you would expect from Viking, proved well-equipped for fishing, cruising, diving and entertaining, with four flush rod holders and rounded coamings with tri-color lighting below. A walk-through transom door with a lift gate makes boarding easy from the dock or from the water, if you decide to add a fiberglass swim platform. The molded transom fish box doubles as a livewell or stowage compartment for dive gear. Raw- and freshwater washdown systems are standard, and for convenience there is a dockside water connection with a pressure-releasing valve under the forward gunwale. A pair of insulated fish boxes, each 45-by-18-by-16 inches, drain out through an auto sump pump and double as dry-stowage bins if needed. A lazarette hatch leads below to steering and plumbing systems. Each lockable hatch is outfitted with a thick gasket and stainless-steel gas pistons. A bait freezer, tackle and gear stowage, an aluminum mounting plate laminated into the sole to accommodate a fishing chair or a table stanchion, a fiberglass boarding box and a 50-amp/220-volt dockside electrical connection are among a long list of standard items on both models. Note too that an aluminum bow rail is standard on each model, though many owners opt to have this item omitted during

RIGGING AND SERVICE ACCESS

the build cycle. However, Viking laminates backing plates in the deck should you choose to install a bow rail at a later date. Another foredeck feature on each boat is a freshwater line in the anchor-rode locker to rinse salt water or mud from the rode before storing it in the well. It also serves as a way to clean off the bow area without dragging a hose aboard from the dock.

On the 38 Billfish, a centerline hatch plus both lounges, which lift with electrical actuators, access the Awlgrip-finished engines and machinery compartment. Viking is well-regarded for its engine rooms, and these smaller Vikings are cut from the same cloth. Finish, light and service access proved terrific. A five-point oil-transfer system empties and fills the engines, transmissions and generator. A Delta T ventilation system with supply and discharge fans induces proper fresh air for combustion and provides water-intrusion suppression to keep the engine room dry. Fittings are labeled, wires for 110-, 24and 12-volt service are chafe-protected and runs properly supported, plumbing fixtures are bonded, and there is even room for a Seakeeper SK 6 gyrostabilizer. A 9 kW Onan generator is standard with a fuel/water separator and provides ample power for equipment, other electrical accessories and entertainment items. A 13.5 kW Onan genset is optional. Viking also offers prep and pre-wire options for later-to-be-installed accessories such as watermakers and ice machines.

OUR TAKE: Tie: Both the Billﬁsh and the

Open offer excellent cockpit and foredeck accoutrements.

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OUR TAKE: Tie: Service access and rigging

are as good as it gets aboard both boats.

PHOTOS: COURTESY VIKING YACHT COMPANY

COCKPIT/BOW

Yachts and Boats | Boat Accessories and Services | Yacht Clubs and Rental Services | Outdoor Leisure Products

CONSTRUCTION

OUR TAKE: Tie: Both boats naturally share the

same excellent construction for which Viking Yachts is renowned. What’s the quick takeaway? The Viking 38 Billﬁsh offers more comfort for cruising or entertaining by virtue of its deckhouse. The Viking 38 Open offers faster top speeds and lower bridge clearance (if one forgoes the purchase of a tower). If a midsize inboard is on your short list and you can’t decide between a ﬂying-bridge boat or an express, comparing these new Viking models is a great place to start.

VIKING 38 BILLFISH rpm

knots

mph

gph

n. mi. range

900 1200 1500 1800 2100 2400 2700 3000 3350

6.6 7.9 9.1 10.3 17.1 21.6 26.8 30.3 34.2

7.5 9.0 10.4 11.8 19.6 24.8 30.8 34.8 39.3

2.8 5.6 11.2 17.2 23.2 29.8 34.6 44.6 56.0

975 584 336 247 305 300 320 281 252

VIKING 38 OPEN BILLFISH angle

sound level

rpm

knots

mph

gph

n. mi. range

0.0 1.0 3.5 5.0 5.0 5.0 4.5 4.5 4.0

80 81 87 88 91 91 92 93 94

900 1200 1500 1800 2100 2400 2700 3000 3300

6.9 8.5 10.1 13.9 19.5 24.9 29.0 32.7 36.1

7.9 9.7 11.6 15.9 22.4 28.6 33.3 37.6 41.5

3.0 5.8 10.6 17.4 22.4 28.4 34.2 46.4 56.6

952 606 394 330 360 362 351 291 264

angle 0.0 1.7 4.5 6.0 6.0 5.0 5.0 4.5 4.0

sound level 75 82 85 85 87 90 91 92 95

MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED

· LOA: 38'8" · BEAM: 14'0" · DRAFT: 3'4" · DISPLACEMENT: 31,810 lb. (full fuel, water) · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 12 degrees · MAX CABIN HEADROOM: 6'9" · FUEL CAPACITY: 460 gal. · WATER CAPACITY: 69 gal. · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 18'5" (top of hardtop masthead light)

· LOA: 38'8" · BEAM: 14'0" · DRAFT: 3'4" · DISPLACEMENT: 30,100 lb. (full fuel, water) · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 12 degrees · MAX CABIN HEADROOM: 6'9" · FUEL CAPACITY: 460 gal. · WATER CAPACITY: 69 gal. · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 15'5" (waterline to hardtop); 24'0" (waterline to top of tower sunshade)

HOW WE TESTED ENGINES: TWIN 542 HP CUMMINS QSB 6.7 DIESEL

HOW WE TESTED

INBOARDS PROPS: 4-BLADE ACME NIBRAL GEAR RATIO: ZF

ENGINES: TWIN 542 HP CUMMINS QSB 6.7 DIESEL

280 1A 2.227:1 FUEL LOAD: 230 GAL. WATER LOAD: 69 GAL.

INBOARDS PROPS: 4-BLADE ACME NIBRAL GEAR RATIO: ZF

CREW: 2 PRICE: $1,097,424 (AS TESTED)

2.227:1 FUEL LOAD: 285 GAL. WATER LOAD: 69 GAL. CREW: 3 PRICE: $1,142,959 (AS TESTED)

V I K I N G YA C H T C O M P A N Y

609-296-6000; vikingyachts.com

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CUMMINS QSB 6.7 DIESEL INBOARD Both the 38 Billﬁsh and the 38 Open Billﬁsh we tested featured twin Cummins QSB 6.7 diesel inboard power. With common rail injection, the engine proved quiet, responsive and essentially smokefree. Check these key specs. · CONFIGURATION: Inline-six · DISPLACEMENT: 6.7 liters (408 cu. in.) · BORE/STROKE: 107/124 mm (4.21/4.88 in.) · WEIGHT: 658 kg (1,450 lb.) · LENGTH/WIDTH/HEIGHT: 1,263.8/910.6/857 mm (49.76/35.85/33.74 in.)

PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) COURTESY VIKING YACHT COMPANY (2), COURTESY CUMMINS

Both Billfish models feature a blister-resistant modified-vinylester resin in the hull skin, with a custom-blended polyester resin in structural laminates, topsides, bridges and hardtops. Isophthalic gelcoat shows well, with a deep, glossy finish. The hull is molded fiberglass, combining closed-cell foam and end-grain balsa in selected areas to enhance strength and stiffness, along with composite bulkheads and fiberglass stringers. Fiberglass side through-hull fittings add a custom touch to the boats.

ELECTRONICS By Jim Hendricks

Marine propulsion systems are becoming increasingly integrated with digital marine electronics to offer more information, control, security and safety. One of the latest advances in this field is the Mercury Marine 1st Mate wireless overboard alert system that lets crewmembers know if someone goes overboard. The 1st Mate Overboard Alert from Mercury Marine uses wearable fobs that pair wirelessly with a free mobile app that in turn communicates with an engine-integrated hub. The system will cover up to eight crewmembers (including the captain). If the captain (identiﬁed by a special fob) goes overboard, the engine(s) immediately stop, and an audible alarm sounds from the hub and any nearby

HALO20 SERIES MARINE RADARS

mobile device with the app. If the captain is solo, 1st Mate can also send messages to contacts in the emergency list. If a crewmember falls over the side, audible alarms sound, but the motor continues to run. In both cases, the app records the GPS location at the time of the alert. The Merc system can also act as a theft deterrent by locking the engines to prevent unauthorized use. Once locked, the engine will not be fully

The new Halo20+ and Halo20 marine radar systems from sister brands Lowrance and Simrad feature compact radomes for boats under 30 feet in length. Boasting pulse-compression

Ask KEN

functional, even if it’s removed from the vessel, without a security handshake from the hub. Mercury 1st Mate works with all SmartCraft-compatible Mercury engines, including outboards, sterndrive systems and inboards. The 1st Mate system is also available under Mercury’s aftermarket label, Quicksilver, and it’s designed to work with non-SmartCraft Mercury motors and marine engines from other leading brands, but lacks some of the integration and functionality of the Merc system, including the theft-deterrent feature. The system starts at $571.41 for a single engine, with incremental price increases as the number of engines increase; mercurymarine.com, quicksilver-products.com.

radar technology, the 20-inch-diameter domes offer pinpoint close-range target definition for navigating harbors, rivers and high-traffic waterways in limited-visibility conditions, such as in fog, at night or both. The Halo20+ features a 60 rpm scanner rotation speed, VelocityTrack Doppler technology for easily tracking targets moving toward your position, bird mode, 36-nautical-mile range, and dual-range operation, which gives

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you the ability to view targets at a distance and returns at tighter ranges simultaneously. The 24-nauticalmile-range Halo20 serves as a more cost-effective radar solution. Designed to easily network with current Lowrance and Simrad MFDs, models also feature MARPA target tracking, InstantOn, and harbor, offshore and weather modes. $1,699 (Halo20), $2,199 (Halo20+); lowrance.com; sim rad-yachting.com

ARE COMBINATION VHF/AIS RADIOS AS GOOD AS DEDICATED AIS SYSTEMS? Most VHF radios with built-in AIS are receive-only sets. That is, they show AIS information from other boats but do not broadcast your boat’s ID and navigation data, so you will not be seen by other AIS-equipped vessels. VHF/AIS radios usually have built-in GPS as well. The combination of these key instruments saves money and mounting area on space-starved helms. Simrad, with its recently announced RS40-B model, is the first to integrate an AIS Class B transponder with a VHF radio that can both receive and transmit AIS navigational information. It’s priced at $1,099. This gives you the same capability as a separate VHF and AIS B transponder in a single set. The AIS targets and information need not be limited to the small screen on your VHF. The output from any AIS set (be it standalone or part of a radio) can be connected to your GPS/chart plotter to view AIS icons overlaid on your chart plotter. Whether it is receive-only or a receive/ transmit transponder, an AIS unit can be a powerful boating-safety anti-collision system. —Ken Englert ASK KEN ONLINE For more exclusive electronics content, visit boatingmag.com/askken.

PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY MERCURY MARINE (2), CRAIG HASHIMOTO, COURTESY SIMRAD

MERCURY MARINE 1ST MATE OVERBOARD ALERT SYSTEM

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* 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 may vary with market conditions and are subject to change without notice. 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 30 days. Boat must be 2000 model year or newer; for boat model year 2000 to 2009, add .25% to above rate. 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 recreational use boat loan: A $65,000 loan for 5 years with a fixed APR of 4.39% would have 60 monthly payments of $1,208.55. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

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U.S. POSTAL SERVICE STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT, AND CIRCULATION (Required by 39 USC 3685) 1. Publication Title: Boating 2. (ISSN 0006-5374) 3. Filing date: 10/1/2019. 4. Issue frequency: Monthly except Jan/Feb, Jul/Aug and Nov/Dec. 5. Number of issues published annually: 9. 6. The annual subscription price is $12.00. 7. Complete mailing address of known office of publication: Bonnier Corporation 460 N. Orlando Avenue, Suite 200, Orange County Winter Park, FL 32789. Contact person: Kolin Rankin. Telephone: 305-859-0020 8. Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business office of publisher: Bonnier Corporation 460 N. Orlando Avenue, Suite 200, Orange County Winter Park, FL 32789. 9. Full names and complete mailing addresses of publisher, editor, and managing editor. Publisher: John McEver PO Box 8500 Winter Park, FL 32790. Editor: Kevin Falvey PO Box 8500 Winter Park, FL 32790. Managing Editor: Sue Whitney PO Box 8500 Winter Park, FL 32790. 10. Owner: Bonnier Corporation PO Box 8500 Winter Park, FL 32790. 11. Known bondholders, mortgages, and other Securities: None. 12. Tax Status (for completion by nonprofit organizations authorized to mail at nonprofit rates): Has Not Changed during Preceding 12 Months. 13. Publication Title: Boating. 14. Issue date for circulation data below: September 19; 15a. Total number of Copies: 116,135 (September 19: 117,964). b. Paid Circulation. (1). Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541: 74,612 (September 19: 70,937). (3). Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS: 2,941 (September 19: 2,700). c. Total Paid Distribution 77,553 (September 19: 73,637) d. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution. (1) Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies Included on PS Form 3541: 25,331 (September 19: 25,326). (4) Free or Nominal Rate distribution Outside the Mail: 33 (September 19: None). e.Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution 25,365 (September 19: 25326). f. Total distribution: 102917 (September 19: 98963). g. Copies not Distributed: 13218 (September 19: 19001). h. Total: 116135 (September 19: 117964). i. Percent paid: 75.35% (September 19: 74.41%). PS FORM 3526: a. Requested and Paid Electronic Copies: 21,493 (September 19: 18,580). b. total Requested and Paid Print copies & Paid Electronic copies: 99,046 (September 19: 92,217). c. Total Print Distribution & Paid Electronic copies: 124,411 (September 19: 117,543). d. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation: 79.61% (September 19: 78.45%). 17. Publication of statement of ownership for a Requester publication will be printed in the JanFeb20 issue of the publication. 18. Signature and title of editor, publisher, business manager, or owner: Robin Michaels. I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanction and civil actions.

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By Charles Plueddeman

N OW O N D I S P L AY A muskie lure is offered as penance.

y good friend Chuck Larson and I were heading north for a little late-season muskie casting, tires of the truck and boat trailer hissing over the wet pavement of Highway 45. The cold rain was a good omen—we feel the fishing gods reward misery. “We could stop at the ER in ER to see my lure,” Chuck said, referring to the hospital emergency room in Eagle River, Wisconsin, a comment that opened an old, forgotten file in the No Good Deed Goes Unpunished folder of my memory. Years ago, Chuck had offered to take his niece Amy and nephew Alan, ages 8 and 10, respectively, fishing on Long Lake. Chuck loaded the cooler with pop, buttered bologna sandwiches, and a fresh tub of Canadian crawlers, anticipating a relaxing day of bobber-fishing for panfish. But Alan, being a boy, wanted to go for more, and he begged Chuck to tie on to his line It’s interesting that the the biggest muskie lure in the tackle Suicidal Sucker is not the largbox, a vintage Water Wolf Suicidal Sucker that measured an impresest lure, or even the oldest, in sive 8 inches. What’s the harm, the display case on the wall of Chuck thought as he cinched the knot tight. the emergency room lobby. “OK son, give her a toss,” Chuck said, and with that Alan reared back with all his might and heaved the rod toward open water. The next thing Chuck heard was not the singing of the reel or the splash of the lure, but Amy screaming in agony. Somehow the angle of Alan’s rod and his position in the front of the small aluminum boat had caused the Suicidal Sucker to intersect Amy’s right ear, and now one of its ancient treble hooks was securely embedded there, and blood

was dripping down onto Amy’s orange life jacket. It took Chuck a moment to realize what had happened, but when he did, his heart sank. He knew Amy’s injury was not life-threatening, but Chuck thought he might be doomed, for a cardinal rule had been broken: Never bring children home injured. And this was an incident that couldn’t be covered up with an ice cream and a request to “not mention this to your mother.” Chuck ascertained that removal of the hook and management of the hysterical child were tasks best left to professionals. Lacking a cutting tool, Chuck instructed Amy to support the weight of the Suicidal Sucker so that it wasn’t dangling from her ear, beached the boat back at the landing, loaded up the kids, and raced in his truck to the ER in ER. It’s interesting that the Suicidal Sucker is not the largest lure, or even the oldest, in the display case on the wall of the emergency room lobby. More than 100 lures and hooks are behind the glass, along with small bottles of bird shot, some large nails, and a really big wood splinter, each item removed from an unfortunate patient by the ER staff. I think many of those patients never wanted to see the offending object again. In Chuck’s case, giving up the Suicidal Sucker felt like appropriate penance for his failure to safeguard the children. “My sister got over it,” Chuck said as we looked at the lure, “although the holidays were tense that year. And Amy still doesn’t wear an earring on the right side.” Like I said: The fishing gods appreciate misery.

BOATING (ISSN 0006-5374) (USPS 504-810), January/February 2020, Volume 93, No. 1. ©2020. Boating is published nine times a year (January/February, March, April, May, June, July/August, September, October and November/December) by Bonnier Corp., 460 N. Orlando Ave., Suite 200, Winter Park, FL 32789. Subscription rates for one year (9 issues): $15 in the U.S., $25 in Canada, $35 for other international. Orders outside the U.S. must be prepaid in U.S. 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.

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ILLUSTRATION: TIM BOWER; PHOTO: MABEL PLUEDDEMAN

OFF MY DOCK