The new Mercury Marine ­joystick control for a single outboard puts throttle, shifting and steering control in the palm of your hand. Many captains will find that the joystick makes it easier to handle a single-engine boat in tight quarters. Full-lock steering response is realized with a quick turn of the joystick rather than with multiple turns of the wheel, and shifting from forward to reverse is just as quick. The joystick ­simplifies boathandling, matching the functionality of the Yamaha Helm Master EX single-engine system introduced in 2021.

We tested the single-engine joystick aboard a Highfield Sport 700 RIB powered by a ­Mercury Verado 250 outboard. A lightweight RIB is easily pushed around by wind and current, and thus is a perfect application for the joystick. The same could be said for a pontoon. Tilt the knob forward or back for forward or reverse thrust, and twist it left or right to steer the outboard. The bow of the vessel always follows the direction of the joystick rotation, whether forward or reverse thrust is selected. The joystick is proportional, which means that the farther from the center the joystick is moved, the more thrust is applied. The system is programmed to limit thrust through the joystick, which makes it less likely you’ll dial up too much thrust—we’ve all seen that ­happen around the dock.

Learning to use this control takes some practice. Experienced captains will instinctively reach for the wheel. But once you develop new muscle memory, control becomes instinctive. This joystick also offers some ­autopilot functions if the boat is rigged with a compatible MFD and a Mercury GPS/IMU. The single-engine joystick is compatible only with Mercury Verado and Sea Pro V-8, V-10 and V-12 engine models equipped with Mercury electric power steering. It can be retrofit, but our Merc rep suggests that the ideal time for installation is during a repower, when all the required components can be ordered together. Vessels equipped with electric steering can add the single-engine joystick for about $2,500, and autopilot for an ­additional $3,000. Note that these features are not mutually exclusive. If the vessel has electric steering, AutoPilot can be installed without the joystick, and vice versa.

Read Next: Mercury Joystick Piloting for Pontoons

SmartCraft OS Joystick Update Available

Mercury Marine recently released a SmartCraft software update that gives multiengine joystick piloting new capabilities. Closed-loop velocity control will automatically adjust throttle and steering if wind or current causes the boat to drift off course during joystick ­maneuvers, reducing unwanted fore-aft drifting by up to 74 percent. Speed-based joystick ­operation replaces the previous rpm-based system. The joystick input translates to ­actual speed over ground, and if the boat encounters a force such as a headwind or tailwind, the system will automatically increase or decrease throttle to maintain the captain’s desired speed. For V-12 engines, the software update enables slip control, which allows the transmission to slip up to 90 percent to reduce propeller rpm and more accurately control the boat’s movements. The software update is available for boats that currently have multiengine joystick piloting and next-gen digital throttle and shift controls. See a Mercury dealer for details.

The post Mercury Joystick Steering for Single-Engine Vessels appeared first on Boating Mag.

Contender Boats is known for tournament sport-fishing boats, but the company describes its 24S center-console as “a great day-tripping boat” that fishes well but also serves families and divers. After several sea trials on the upper and lower Chesapeake Bay, we certainly agree. On those tests, we explored a common question: Should you power your boat with single or twin outboards? Read on to see what we found.

We tested two Contender 24S boats—one with a single Yamaha F300, the other with twin Yamaha F150s.  Both offered top speeds in the low 50s and efficient cruising speeds of 30 to 40 mph (3,500 to 4,500 rpm), yet the twins’ performance stood in stark contrast to the single. As expected, the weight of the twins planted the 24S’s 22.5-degree transom deadrise deep-V hull firmly in the water at all speeds and accelerated that boat to 30 mph, which was  slightly faster than the single, presumably because of the greater surface area of two propellers versus one. Their lift also caused them to run slightly flatter at high speeds. Despite the weight of the two engines, this Contender’s well-designed cockpit still self-bailed ­effectively with twins as the scuppers remained above the waterline. Nonetheless, we think the single was the hands-down winner for several reasons.

The weight difference between the two boats is around 500 pounds. This shows up clearly in the performance charts shown on the opposite page. First, the single-engine boat is ­faster at every rpm stage. The ­single rose onto plane at a lower rpm range (2,500 to 3,000 rpm), despite the lift from the twin ­propellers. ­Second, the single was significantly more fuel-­efficient, ­topping out at a remarkable 3.9 mpg versus 2.7 mpg for the twins at 3,500 rpm. Twin engines require twice as much rigging and maintenance as a single, and they take up more room on the ­transom’s dive platform. ­Finally, the twin-150 rig costs $23,499 more than the single 300 (retail base price $157,210 versus $133,711). Note also that the twin-engine boat would not plane with a single 150, even with the crew all the way up at the bow to help balance it. (The boat will likely do so with one of the optional twin 200s.) Rather than buying twins for get-home redundancy, an annual ­towing-service ­membership might serve many boaters. To me, Contender’s 24S is a great boat for a big estuary like the Chesapeake or for near-coastal work, say up to 25 miles offshore.

While the 24S shows its pure Contender fishing genes, it also offers a head in the console (5 feet, 7 inches of headroom) and seating ranging from U-shaped forward seats to transom jump seats. It’s family-friendly enough to take some kids ­bottomfishing, serve ­Saturday ­race-committee work for a yacht club, or join friends at a sandbar. The 300 hp outboard is plenty powerful for casual tow sports. There’s a lot of storage space, much of it dry, plus coolers. A couple could cruise the 24S along the coast and its rivers with a little attention to Airbnbs and waterside restaurants. It’s built like a tank—solid enough to be heirloom quality for multiple generations of a ­water-loving family.

Read Next: Sterndrive vs. Outboard

One criticism: Its fuel tank, at 130 gallons, seems large for the single-engine version; range at 3,500 rpm works out to 456 miles. While few boaters complain about too much fuel capacity, I’d guess that most people choosing the 24S wouldn’t run more than 100 miles per day, so an 85- to 90-gallon capacity seems more appropriate (range about 230 miles) to avoid wasted space or carrying an extra 330 pounds of dead weight (55 gallons of fuel). For twins, or a single 350 or 400, one might want the extra 55 gallons. That’s my opinion, as someone who would run 40 miles one way in it on occasion. Yours can differ, certainly.

So, as the only “Sport” model in Contender’s line, the 24S seems underrated, deserving of more attention for coastal folks who aren’t interested in hardcore blue water. Yes, as a semicustom builder, Contender can build sport ­features such as forward seating into larger models, but this boat seems to fit neatly into a widespread coastal niche where it fishes ably but also shows off its well-honed versatility.

How We Tested

• Single Engine: Single 300 hp Yamaha V-6 outboard
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/15.5″x 17″ Saltwater Series II 3-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 75 gal. Crew Weight: 380 lb.

How We Tested

• Twin Engines: Twin 150 hp Yamaha I-4 outboards
• Drive/Props: Outboard/13.75″x 19″ Reliance 3-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 2:1 Fuel Load: 40 gal. Crew Weight: 380 lb.

Contender 24S Specs

The post Single vs. Twin Outboards appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

Bluewater Sportfishing Boats’ newest, the 25T, proves itself a purpose-built fishing boat ready to tackle offshore conditions like few boats its size.

An Armstrong engine bracket holds the twin ­Yamaha F200s and adds 3 feet of length to its 25-foot hull. It has a wave-slashing 24 degrees of deep-V goodness at the ­transom and an even-sharper 44 degrees at the entry. Yet, because deep deadrise can make a boat tender, all Bluewaters now come standard with Seakeeper’s Ride system. This replaces standard trim tabs with what’s called a Vessel Attitude Control System. While underway, this makes 1,000 observations and 100 corrections per second using unique cupped blades that travel only a fraction of an inch when at planing speeds. The system reduces pitch and roll by up to 70 percent while the boat’s at speed.

Hardcore anglers will love the absence of fixed bowrider seats and a molded-in stern bench, which can rob a boat of ­angling space. The ­fishing cockpit is roomy. I taped 47 inches of deck aft of the ­leaning post. You can add family-­friendly seat options, but they are easily removable for ­fishing. Other features that let you know the 25T is a real-­deal fishing boat include the twin 24-gallon transom livewells, twin in-floor 20-gallon fish boxes, and a 133-gallon bow fish box/storage locker that can hold tuna up to an estimated 250 pounds. Our test boat sported 21 total rod holders, including 12 set into the gunwales (eight are standard).

The helm features a pair of flush-mounted Garmin 8612xfv multifunction displays and can accommodate up to 16-inchers. Rather unusual was the optional thin windshield, made of the same polycarbonate material as the optional side panels, which, despite being curved, provided a distortion-free view.

The twin Yamaha F200 outboards proved an ­excellent option. Time to 30 mph was 9.1 seconds, and the best cruise speed was 25.5 mph (3,500 rpm), which yielded an impressive 2.3 mpg. Along with its jumbo 189-gallon fuel tank, it offers it a theoretical range of nearly 400 miles. ­Bluewater also rigs twin Suzuki and ­Mercury outboards up to 500 hp, with a single 300 hp option. Choices in power: just another benefit of owning the ­Bluewater 25T.

Read Next: How Fishing and Boating Can Change Life for the Better

How We Tested

• Engines: Twin Yamaha F200 outboards
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha Reliance 14 ½” x 18″ stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.86:1 Fuel Load: 80 gal. Water on Board: 0 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.

High Points

• Gunwale height starts at 26 inches aft and grows to 31 inches moving forward.
• Equipped with Gemlux friction hinges, hatches remain open until you close them, so there is little fear of smashed toes and fingers. 
• Bluewater is a custom family-owned builder, and with its wide range of options, it can design a boat that gives buyers precisely what they want.

Low Points

• Unlike similar boats, there is no tuna door for landing extra-large fish and helping guests board.
• When deployed, the removable stern bench and bowrider have support legs that stand on some hatches, making these lockers inaccessible.

Toughest Competitor

Parker Boats’ 2600 CC ($255,616 MSRP) measures 26-feet-by-9-feet-6-inches—wider than the Bluewater. The T-top, with a powder-coated frame, rocket launcher, lights and more, is standard equipment. The lockable console offers 65 inches of headroom and comes with a portable -toilet. Power it with up to twin 250 Yamaha outboards.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2025 Bluewater 25T appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

With its ability to cruise, fish, dive, entertain and even overnight, it’s tempting to dub Regal’s 43 SAV the proverbial “jack of all trades,” but that would imply it’s also a master of none. On the contrary, I found this Sport-Activity Vessel one of the most well-thought-out, well-executed boats I’ve tested to date. From the intuitive flow of its layout to an abundance of features and design, Regal seems to have thought of nearly everything—and for everyone who comes aboard. 

Interior and Accessories

Peruse the 43 from stern to bow, and the boat reveals itself in five distinct zones, each of which suits a specific task or desire. Start at the stern, and the immediate impression is of the ultimate sandbar boat. Large terrace doors to both port and starboard lower to add nearly 50 square feet to the aft cockpit, creating an airy platform at the water’s edge. Twin settees face each other forward and aft. Pull a cold one from ice boxes on either side of the former; one smartly doubles as an ice maker. A 43-inch flat-screen TV pivots out from underneath the hardtop. Watch the kids run and jump off the open wings, or take a stroll along an unencumbered swim platform to access the boarding ladder. It opens outboard, away from the boat’s trio of outboards. In a rarely seen yet practical nod, there’s even an adjacent storage locker for a stern anchor, keeping a Danforth readily at hand when setting up off the beach. 

When it’s time for fishing, terrace doors pivot inward to complete its deep and secure aft cockpit. Each features a large dive door to access the dock or to pull in that big tuna. Two pressurized 30-gallon livewells await at the transom station. Twin 60-gallon fish boxes are beneath the floor to port and starboard. Rod holders are found across the transom as well as in gunwales, rocket launchers at each corner of the hardtop, and a polished wood rigging table that can be optioned adjacent to the forward settee. Outriggers can also be added for those seeking to troll. 

Step deeper under the protection of the hardtop to—voilà!—a summer kitchen. Prep fillets on the cutting board over its deep sink, toss onto the pair of electric grills immediately adjacent, and the freshest-ever catch of the day is on its way to being plated. Twin ­pullout drawer refrigerators offer an abundance of cold storage below. In between, a trio of drawers stash the necessary extras. Overhead, a 16-inch Garmin display is flanked by a pair of wireless phone-charging cradles and speakers. Plush helm seats forward complete the ­picture, pivoting 180 degrees to provide comfortable seating while watching some mahi sizzle, catching up with the latest college game day, or keeping an eye on the trolling spread. 

Turning to the helm, a pair of 22-inch ­Garmin touchscreen displays dominate the dash, each sporting a custom Regal interface with common task bar. A great example of how these screens could be configured was showcased during our test at day’s end—the eclectic onscreen mix including everything from navigation chart, engine data, and vessel controls to hullside camera and live college football game, courtesy of the optional KVH satellite dome on the roof. That same data can also be seen on the large aft screen, overhead monitor in the summer kitchen, and on Regal’s unique GarmRests—Garmin screens built into helm armrests that keep controls and ­monitoring a fingertip away.

Access the cabin via an electric door to the left of the helm. Highlights below include more than 6 feet of headroom and an abundance of natural light, courtesy of a large portside glass window forward and twin rectangular windows midcabin. Forward couches convert to a queen-size berth. Aft, two twin innerspring mattresses morph into a king with the use of a headboard filler cushion in the full-beam stateroom. The elegant head compartment adds a full-size toilet, glass sink bowl, and clear shower partition. Back topside, access the bow via a portside walk-through. Lounges wrap the perimeter, offering space for up to eight passengers. Pop in the pedestal table for food and drinks. Lower it, add a filler cushion, and turn the entire space into a sun pad.

Engines

Regal’s deep-V OceanTrac 2 hull delivered a smooth, confident ride in the 2- to 3-foot seas we encountered on our test day. Credit not only design, but also construction. Hull and stringers are vacuum-infused together. Carbon fiber is added to key areas for additional strength. As to performance, our test boat neared 53 mph with its trio of 450 hp ­Yamaha XTO V-8s. Optional power ­configurations extend as high as 1,800 hp. 

An interesting competitor is found in Scout’s 42-foot-4-inch 42 LXF ($1,341,804 with quad Mercury 350 Verados). A more ­traditional center-console, it offers similar multiuse versatility, with its own summer kitchen, single-berth cabin with well-appointed head and shower, and impressive array of tech. If you’re looking to rock the sandbar, however, its singular portside “beach platform” is more like a small dock. Lower the ­Regal’s massive twin terrace doors, and you’ve got your own floating island.

Read Next: Regal LX36

How We Tested

• Engines: Triple Yamaha 450 XTO Offshore V-8
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha XTO OS 16 ⁵/₈” x 19″ 3-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.79:1 Fuel Load: 283 gal. Crew Weight: 1,170 lb.

High Points

• Standard Seakeeper 4 produces stability at rest, even in rough seas. 
• Optional Regal LivePower automatically switches power sources and keeps charge.
• Regal offers terrace doors port and starboard. These fold out to increase cockpit size and grant great vibe and water access. 

Low Points

• Anchor locker offers access to windlass and freshwater sprayer close at hand, but access to anchor rode can be challenging.
• Deep transom lazarette might prove difficult to access if you’re not agile.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2025 Regal 43 SAV appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

Navan (rhymes with “baton”) is new boat line from Brunswick Corporation, which also builds Sea Rays, Bayliners, Boston Whalers, Heyday Boats, Princecrafts and others, along with Mercury Marine outboards and sterndrives. Bucking the trend of similar boats imported from the Nordic countries, the S30 was designed at the state-of-the-art Brunswick Boat Group Technology Center, located at Boston Whaler’s compound in Edgewater, Florida, and is built in Merritt Island,  Florida, where the largest Sea Rays are built. (Navan boats sold in Europe are built in Poland.) Navan makes two models: the C30, which has an enclosed pilothouse and has proved to be more popular in northern climes for those seeking to stretch short boating seasons. The model we tested was the S30, which features an open design that will be more popular as a dayboat for those buyers seeking less weather protection and more open space topside.

Interior and Accessories

Navan designers created the ability to board the boat from either side thanks to extra-long swim platformettes, which wrapped around the optional twin Mercury 300 hp Verado V-8 outboards that powered our test boat. For better grip and comfort, the entire deck surface on our boat was clad in optional GatorStep. Adding an optional ski-tow arch gives those boarding an extra handhold for added safety, and it ups its fun quotient. On many boats of this type, fun-in-the-sun space is limited, but on the S30, those sitting on the quad-wide rear bench seat can enjoy the great outdoors. A generous amount of deck space between the rear bench and the one in front of it is ideal for cocktail party mingling.

Brunswick boats are known for their clever seating arrangements, and this boat is no outlier. The amidships bench can face toward the bow to create a total of eight to 10 forward-facing seats, which is the preferred arrangement for cruising. Both bench seats have tall armrests for comfort and security. But something magical happens when the amidships bench is tumbled aft to face the transom bench and create a social zone. This is enhanced by adding an optional bifold teak table in between. In addition, it reveals an entertainment area complete with a sink, a drink bin and plenty of counter space, along with an electric grill for creating hot appetizers. Below on our test boat was an optional pair of Isotherm drawer-style refrigerators.

At the helm is a pair of captain’s chairs with armrests for comfort. A bit unusual is the placement of the helm on the port side of the boat instead of the more-normal starboard-side helm found on most American boats. Despite being confined under a hardtop, it doesn’t feel claustrophobic thanks to the four smoked acrylic sun panels above. The windshield is sportboat-low, but it offers a surprising amount of coverage because the helm seats are low enough for average-height people to peer through it when sitting. A thoughtful option would be adjustable-height pedestals to accommodate drivers of varying heights. There’s plenty of room to stand and to look above the windshield for an uncluttered view.

Below is a well-appointed cabin with most of the space given over to the berth, which comfortably sleeps two adults. Thanks to the side windows and shaded acrylic hatch, it has plenty of ambient light. The large box on the starboard side contains the 12-volt Mabru climate-control system and makes a handy place to store luggage when weekending. Although there’s not enough room for an enclosed shower, there’s a handheld showerhead for bathing and an electric-flush toilet.

For those looking to work on their tans, there’s a large sun lounge on the foredeck with backrests for added comfort and cup holders for parking beverages. Our test boat had the optional windlass—a no-brainer on a luxurious boat like this.

The S30’s T-Hull is Brunswick’s first-ever with a vented stepped design. This design introduces air underneath the hull to reduce friction for better fuel economy and unreal turning ability. We tested the Navan on the Indian River in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, not far from the Boston Whaler campus where it was designed. The channel is relatively narrow here, but there was plenty of room to whip it into a G-force-generating 360-degree turn. Its hull features 20 degrees of deadrise at the transom and a fairly narrow-for-its-length beam of 9 feet, 10 inches to help it slice through the waves. And despite being 33-plus feet long with a weight of more than 4 tons, its performance was impressive. Reaching plane in 4 seconds, it accelerated to 30 mph in 7.1 seconds and achieved a top speed of 57.1 mph.

Our test boat was especially easy to drive thanks to Mercury’s Trim Assist, which automatically keeps the boat at the proper running attitude. It was also equipped with the ZipWake system, which uses blade-like interceptors instead of plate-like tabs. These automatically keep the boat running level. 

Comparison shoppers should trial the Nimbus T-9, starting at $191,496 with a single 250 Mercury V-8 and a bow thruster. Pricing for the Navan S30 with a 400 hp Mercury V-10 Verado starts at $216,496. 

Engines

When owners choose the twin Mercury 300 hp outboard option that we tested, the Navan S30 comes standard with Joystick Piloting for Outboards, which helps ease docking and offers other features such as Skyhook, a virtual anchor. Owners can select a bow thruster for docking assistance if they order the boat with twin Mercury V-6 225 outboards or with a single Mercury 400 hp V-10 Verado outboard. 

How We Tested

• Engines: Twin Mercury V-8 4.6L 300 hp Verado outboards
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Rev 4 14.6″ x 21″ 4-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.85:1 Fuel Load: 85 gal. Water on Board: 0 gal. Crew Weight: 380 lb.

High Points

• Visibility at the helm is excellent in all ­directions.
• We found this boat to be efficient, achieving an impressive 1.8 mph at 30 mph when ­running at 3,500 rpm.
• The rocket-launcher rod-holder option is a plus for those who fish.

Low Points

• Even with the bow pulpit, the straight bow means you need to be careful when raising or lowering the anchor. Consider adding a scuff plate. 
• There’s no hardtop-rack option for securing items such as paddleboards and kayaks.    
• There’s no grab rail along the hardtop to help ease walking to and from the bow.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2025 Navan S30 appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

From the land of Ferrari, it’s no surprise that the new Sessa C44 pops onto plane in just 8 seconds flat and, pushed by a pair of Volvo Penta D6 ­diesel IPS 600s, this ­stylish cruiser tops out at over 35 mph. Not bad for moving 14 tons of Italian luxury.

The Sessa C44 is a lean express cruiser, accented by a slash of windows in the topsides, but one of its surprises is that we found as much as 6 feet, 9 inches of headroom inside its cabin.  

Interior and Accessories

If you are a buyer appreciative of this boat’s style and performance, you will want to consider your boating usage because Sessa offers the C44 in your choice of two cockpit layouts. The extended cockpit version (for entertaining many) gives you two swoopy dinettes, protected by both the hardtop (with opening moonroof) and a sliding shade aft, while the standard layout ­offers a wide sun pad (no second dinette) with a spacious tender garage underneath. Both versions have a standard hydraulic swim platform that can handle up to a 900-pound tender or PWC, and the tender garage will conceal and protect a small boat up 7 feet, 6 inches in length. The skipper is cosseted in a bolstered helm seat, facing a Euro-styled dash with Raymarine Axiom GPS and ­Volvo Penta engine monitor. Just abaft the helm is an outdoor galley with a grill, sink and drawer-style refrigerator.

Step below into the lower salon, and you’ll find a large convertible dinette to starboard opposite a full galley with a four-burner Kenyon ­ceramic cooktop, microwave/convection oven, fridge, and lacquered eye-level cabinetry.  

The owner’s cabin is lush, with an angled queen berth that allows you to walk on each side (to keep your dignity intact while climbing in or out), plus a leather-topped bureau, full-height hanging locker, and enough stowage shelves and drawers for long weekends. The en suite head features a stall shower with Lucite doors.  

Forward, the guest cabin sports scissoring single berths that combine into a double, as well as private access to the day head with its curtained shower.  

Sessa, a three-generation family builder, might be a new name for some skippers on this side of the pond, but the C44 will add it to their vocabulary.

How We Tested

• Engine: Twin Volvo Penta D6 diesel IPS 600 (440 hp)
• Drive/Prop: IPS pod/Twin 3- and 4-blade counter-rotating nibral T6
• Gear Ratio: 1.82:1 Fuel Load: 175 gal. Crew Weight: 650 lb.

High Points

• Sessa’s North American team has a warehouse filled with parts, as well as a service team for nationwide support.
• A tender garage? Yes! Opt for one of its two layouts, and Sessa C44 offers a garage on the transom, just like a dinghy garage on a large yacht. This can house a dinghy up to 7 feet, 6 inches long with an outboard.
• The choice of two different layouts allows buyers to tailor this new Sessa to their specific needs. 
• A third outdoor galley is hidden in the transom, with a grill, a refrigerator and a sink.

Low Points

• The two fuel tanks, totaling 252 gallons, carry less fuel than competing-model boats, and crimp the range, allowing just over 200 miles at 26 mph. 
• The helm seat is on the narrow side for two people, and the absence of a seat opposite the helm means a companion must join the skipper. 

Toughest Competitor

The Galeon 450 HTC ($1,198,515) is similarly sized, with Volvo Penta V-drive diesels and either two- or three-cabin layouts. No transom garage, but it does offer foldout side decks.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2025 Sessa C44 appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

Multipurpose crossover boats are enjoying their time in the sun, mixing sporty performance with the ability to do everything from fishing, diving, and towing watersports to cruising, entertaining, and even comfortably overnighting. Some boats drop a ball in this juggling act, but Solara’s 310 Sport Coupe pulls it off with aplomb. Credit in part goes to one of the longest lists of high-value standards that we’ve seen in this size range, but also to the fact that Solara designers and engineers appear to be true boating enthusiasts themselves. They’re designing a boat for how they, and their buyers, use one. That the builder does all of the above while keeping the price as low as it is might come with a few trade-offs here and there, but the result is simple: good ­old-fashioned bang for the buck.

Interior and Accessories

Examples abound on the 310. Step aboard via the Clear Path ­EVA-covered swim platform, and you’ll instantly note that it’s completely free of obstructions, the result of Solara working with engine partner Yamaha to place all that toe-catching, space-clogging rigging underneath the deck. Step inside the cockpit, and a plethora of comfortably padded benches are ready for however you’ve planned your day. Grab some cold ones from the fridge and socialize while your meal is prepped on the nearby electric grill. Or if you prefer to catch your meal first, fold seats into the wall and clear the decks for fishing. Multiple rod holders line the gunwales, and a livewell awaits to starboard. Extra kudos are reserved for the split-personality aft bench. It morphs from a fishing-friendly ­fiberglass transom wall into a cove-friendly, aft-facing perch open to the swim platform or forward-facing bench that extends over that same ­platform so as to steal nary an inch of cockpit space. 

Below the hardtop, a large portside lounge borders the aft cockpit and features a flip-flop backrest to join either social scene. Forward, the swiveling companion seat likewise does double-duty depending on the occupant’s ­focus. A ­pedestal table allows all of the above’s occupants to gather round. Opposite, a starboard galley awaits, with an electric refrigerator/freezer, a stainless-steel sink, much-appreciated prep space, and five storage drawers. The latter are more practical to access and organize compared with the jumble often created by wide-open hatch-accessed storage. There’s even dedicated space for wine bottles and glasses. 

Forward of the galley, the impressively ­appointed helm completes the covered space. Featuring eye-catching red carbon-fiber ­accent panels, its true highlight is an array of four touchscreens, including a pair of Garmin ­GPSMap 8612 multifunction displays that ­practically surround the driver with visual information. Cool tweak? The entire ­assembly angles up or down at the touch of a button, ­repositioning displays to compensate for driver height, standing or seated position at the helm, and to reduce glare. 

Equal thought has been put into the forward cabin. Taller occupants will instantly appreciate the 6-foot-4-inch headroom in both cabin and head compartment. The latter includes a pump-out marine toilet, hot-water shower, and upscale glass sink bowl. Rather than a storage compartment masquerading as a V-berth, the former proved both spacious enough (and mattress comfortable enough) to actually spend that aforementioned overnight. Natural light is funneled in via an overhead skylight and a clear acrylic hatch. The hatch also opens for natural ventilation.

Back topside, a deep and comfy bow cockpit completes the tour. In order to maximize protected space under the hardtop, it’s accessed via an internal, weather-protected walk-through to port. Step out and find a double-wide couch facing forward and twin lounges to port and starboard, all generously padded and with stainless-steel grab handles within reach. Add a pedestal table or toss in the filler cushions to make one large sun bed. Cup holders, Fusion stereo head unit, speakers, and USB charging ports are likewise close at hand. 

Engines

Features and value aside, it’s the ride that can ultimately make or break a boat’s success. The 310 runs on a double-stepped hull with a progressive variable deadrise that competently handled our test day’s rough conditions. Laminar flow interrupters—golf-ball-like dimples positioned near the bow—aim to improve cornering ability by breaking up surface tension. Auto-leveling trim tabs and a Lewmar bow thruster enhance high- and low-speed handling, respectively, and were greatly appreciated on our blustery test day. The 310’s pair of Yamaha 300s also proved their worth in the challenging conditions, pushing the 310 onto plane in 5.6 seconds, passing 30 mph in 7.4, and topping out at 52.8 mph.

Read Next: Solara S-250 DC

Comparison shopping? Regal’s 33 SAV (starting at $545,730 well-equipped, with Yamaha 300s) is likely closest in concept but is several feet longer, allowing Regal to add a midcabin berth. The price reflects this difference, however, and options hike it up further. Pursuit’s DC 306 ($418,156, with twin Yamaha 300s) starts closer in price and targets a similar audience, but its dual-console design makes it more of a pure dayboat. And again, options increase the bottom line. Both models are also more upscale than the Solara and feature superior fit-and-finish. Solara definitely runs up the score, ­however, on standard features. Proof? Every feature mentioned in this review is ­standard. Bang on, ­Solara.

How We Tested

• Engine: Yamaha F300
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series II 15 ¼” x 18″ 3-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 100 gal. Crew Weight: 340 lb.

High Points

• Hardtop-mounted cameras forward and aft prove helpful in tight docking situations or when picking up skiers or riders.
• When anchored out, efficient air conditioning and reverse-cycle heat can run on lithium house batteries, recharged quickly via the Yamaha outboards’ 70-amp alternators.
• Additional high-value standards include anchor windlass, bow thruster, Fusion stereo with subwoofer, flat-screen TV, and autopilot.

Low Points

• At planing speeds, we recorded higher noise levels than aboard similar boats.
• We noted excess caulking and gaps between several adjoining panels.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2025 Solara S-310 SC appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

Boating with small children can be a fraught experience. I have a pair of toddler grandchildren, and they sure move fast. There’s a low-level hum of anxiety when they are aboard, even though they are buttoned up in their life jackets. For family boating, security is paramount, which is why we think this new Hurricane SunDeck 3200 OB deserves consideration if some of your crew are about knee-high. Which is not to imply that swingin’ singles or empty nesters won’t also enjoy the SunDeck 3200. It’s packed with a lot of great design features.

Engines

Hurricane takes a step away from its 50-year-old deck-boat roots with the launch of this wide-beam 32-foot model envisioned as the ultimate dayboat. Squeezing every ­desirable ­feature into any boat will always require some give-and-take, but ­Hurricane has found ways to give us exceptional room for entertaining, lounging, and casual overnighting with minimal compromise. Hurricane also offers good value in this segment. Consider its go-to competitor, a 34-foot-9-inch Sea Ray Sundancer 320 OB—a slightly longer wide-beam, cabin- and hardtop-equipped dayboat with bow seating and outboard power. Base price with twin Mercury Verado 400 outboards is about $507,000. That price includes joystick control—a $25,000 option from Hurricane—but it does not include features such as premium audio, an aft-facing seat at the transom, a windlass, a cabin television and a twin 12-inch MFD, all of which are standard equipment on the SunDeck 3200.

A key design element of the SunDeck 3200 is its high freeboard, ­measuring about 5 feet, 6 inches from gunwale to waterline. This enables both a very deep bow cockpit and a cabin with 6 feet, 3 inches of headroom. The disadvantage could be added windage and an elevated center of gravity, both of which could make the boat tender and prone to ­heeling in a crosswind. To mitigate this, Hurricane commissioned a hardtop and supports formed of carbon-fiber composite that it claims weighs only 270 pounds.

Interior and Accessories

The thought of kids on a boat came to mind when we walked forward on a passway to port, with 35 inches of depth that is maintained throughout the bow cockpit. Here, there’s a three-wide seat that also wraps to starboard around a table, which can be lowered and covered with a matching pad to ­create an expansive lounge. The very broad bow is squared off and covered with soft MarineMat, with two steps to port for easy egress if ­boarding at the bow from a dock. Compartments in the bow deck can hold 12-inch fenders, and in the center is a hatch over the ­standard Lewmar windlass.

If you’d prefer to lounge at the stern, there is a cove-ready swing-back seat at the transom, so you can choose to face the water or join seating in the cockpit that wraps around a table. The table lowers and can be covered to create an aft sun lounge. A galley console to starboard incorporates a wide countertop with a sink and space for an optional grill ($1,244) topping a slide-out 4.5-cubic-foot ­refrigerator/freezer and a drawer designed to hold a 30-quart cooler.

In place of a midcabin, Hurricane chose to create massive stowage below the cockpit sole accessed through a 30-by-30-inch hatch. Close to 4 feet deep, it has space for an optional Seakeeper 2 gyrostabilizer ($41,660), with plenty of room left for all your stuff. There’s also ­excellent access here to well-organized connections for audio components and the ­C-Zone digital switching network. Batteries and space for an optional 7.5 kW genset are ­below the aft seat base.

Through a sliding hatch and down three steps to the cabin, you’ll find a space with all that headroom and plenty of ambient light. Forward is a settee with a small table that converts to a V-berth that’s a good size for those little boaters come nap time. The breaker panel, a small microwave and a 20-liter fridge are at the base of the steps, with an enclosed head across the way.

A double-wide helm seat fronts a dash with a pair of 12-inch Simrad NSX displays. Other helm features include a wireless device charger, a Mercury VesselView screen, a pair of heated/chilled drink holders and an audio remote.

We took the SunDeck 3200 for a spin on Lake Wawasee in Indiana and immediately noted the excellent visibility from the helm because the main support for the hardtop is well behind the captain’s line of sight. The V-10 Mercury outboards are designed for thrust, and they did not disappoint, hoisting us on plane in about 7 seconds and charging to 30 mph in 12.2 seconds, with a full load of fuel and five people aboard. The boat handles well but is a little tender in a crosswind and leans into the slightest motion of the wheel. We think that Lenco Pro Control auto tabs ($2,535) to stabilize both pitch and roll would be an ideal option to check on the order form. So, take your kids boating! Just keep their sticky fingers off the Simrad screens.

Read Next: Hurricane SunDeck 2600 OB

How We Tested

• Engines: Twin Mercury V-10 Verado 400 outboards
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/18″ x 21″ Mercury Revolution X 4-blade
• Gear Ratio: 2.08:1 Fuel Load: 248 gal. Water on Board: NA Crew Weight: 1,000 lb.

High Points

• Designed from the inside out, with cabin headroom as the first priority. The requisite freeboard results in a deep, comfortable bow cockpit, an elevated helm, and cavernous stowage below the sole.
• Smart to skip a midberth and devote that space to stowage and a Seakeeper.
• Nice standard features include the hardtop, premium audio, and a pair of 12-inch MFDs.

Low Points

• No gate between the cockpit and the transom platform.
• No audio remote at the transom or bow seating areas.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2025 Hurricane SunDeck 3200 OB appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

Full disclosure: Boats and adult beverages are two of my favorite things, and I’ve realized that there are many similarities (besides being addictive). Some boats are beer (a good one like Heineken or Corona), while others are more like a fine Burgundy (a nice Montrachet will do).  

But some, like the new Pursuit OS 325, are unquestionably Champagne: bubbly, light, and full of smiles (my first choice would be Dom Perignon, thank you). 

This is a boat that checks all the boxes for an all-purpose fun boat as much a battlewagon with a bunch of anglers aboard as it is an afternoon cruiser with family and friends. It’s the ­newest in Pursuit’s Offshore series (hence the OS). And offshore it is, with a 20-degree deadrise hull, ­full-length strakes, and wide chine flats. The deadrise slices solid Gulf Stream swells, the strakes throw the spray far aside, and the chines make it stable at trolling speeds. With twin Yamaha 350s on our test boat, we topped out at 52-plus mph with full tanks and a bunch of folks aboard.

Interior and Accessories

At a glance, you’ll see the multiple gunwale rod holders and rocket launchers on the fiberglass hardtop. There’s a 32-gallon transom livewell, and its class-leading storage includes the bait center with tackle trays, and lure tubes and drawers (in the cockpit console under the Kenyon grill and sink), and fish boxes in the floor—24- and 27-gallon—each with independent diaphragm pumps. You’d peg this as a fish boat. You’d be wrong.

Families are going to delight in the wraparound seating with table ­opposite the helm, and a pair of folding settees for Aunt Edna are in the cockpit with another removable table. The 12-inch side decks leading forward are surrounded by 24-inch welded stainless-steel rails from bow to cockpit, so the 325 is kid-safe too.  

Step through the sliding door next to the helm into the cabin and—oh my!—you weren’t expecting 6 feet, 2 inches of headroom (that deadrise really helps here). Forward is a dinette with a high/low table that converts into a full V-berth. Peek aft, and you’ll find a 6-foot-2-inch wide berth tucked under the cockpit, which is very comfy (yes, I stretched out) and perfect for a long weekend aboard.  

Adding family amenity, the fully ­enclosed head offers plenty of headroom, plus a sink and shower. Opposite is a mini galley with a ­microwave and a drawer-style fridge.  

Whether you’re fishing or relaxing with family, the helm is the heart of the OS 325, and a right fine one it is. First, the skipper gets a folding bolster helm seat with infinite adjustments, and it swivels to face the dining table opposite. Like the other upholstery aboard, the Dri-Fast foam with mesh backing means (pardon me) no wet butts. The dash is user-friendly, and our test boat featured two 16-inch ­GPSMap 8616 multifunction displays, the ­Yamaha engine interface, and Siren Marine systems monitoring.

The hardtop features molded locations for the radar (mounted on powder-coated supports), ­riggers, and a spotlight or a FLIR camera. The optically clear one-piece windshield is impressive, in part because you can wear polarized ­sunglasses without getting “hotspots.” With the side windows extending well aft (augmented with standard side curtains to stretch the enclosure), this is a ­pilothouse that protects from sun, rain and wind. Need air? Open the electric windshield vent for hot-day cooling. Or, opt for cockpit air conditioning.

Engines

Our pair of Yamaha F350 V-6 outboards (300 hp are standard) gave us integrated digital electronic controls and steering, with optional joystick. The dash also sported a joystick for the standard 3 hp Lewmar bow thruster.  

As indicated earlier, we topped out at just shy of 53 mph. At 36.4 mph, the OS 325 sipped fuel (26 gph). With the 300-gallon tank, that provided a range beyond 370 miles.  

Pursuit is renowned for tough boats with class-leading stowage. The 325 is no exception. It’s hand-laminated with blister-thwarting ­vinylester resins, with a rot-proof foam-filled structural grid of infused glass that adds rigidity. With the hammer down and running in chop, there wasn’t a squeak or groan. To carry 700 hp, the transom uses the patented Pursuit Transom Reinforcement Grid. In addition, the hull-to-deck joint is mechanically fastened and through-bolted at all cleats, and the through-hull fittings are bronze. All this is garnished with a five-year hull/deck warranty.   

Our test boat had the Fischer Panda 5 kW generator for air conditioning to cool the cabin when away from shore power and, as a bonus, it provides reverse (hot or cold) air conditioning for the skipper and guests in the cockpit. 

Underway, a spin of the Brody knob on the stainless-steel wheel provided a banked turn that wouldn’t alarm Aunt Edna, even flat out.

Shopping around? Take a look at the Boston Whaler 325 Conquest (32 feet, 3 inches; Merc 300 hp Verados; $515,742).

Thinking back on my day on the OS 325 and reviewing the pictures, I realize that I was wrong. This Pursuit is truly a fine bottle of Louis Roederer Cristal Champagne. There’s just nothing we could complain about.

Read Next: Pursuit OS 405

How We Tested

• Engine: Twin Yamaha F350
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series II HP, 15 ¼” x 19″ 3-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 250 gal. Water on Board: 10 gal. Crew Weight: 650 lb.

High Points

• Cockpit side door for big fish or bigger divers.
• Standard 3 hp Lewmar bow thruster.
• Drawer fridges in cabin and in the cockpit. 
• Great access to electrical, plumbing and battery systems.

Low Point

• Aboard our prototype test boat, metal cup holders in the companion lounge bit our spine, but Pursuit has since fixed this.  

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2025 Pursuit OS 325 appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

Given the widespread popularity of taking one’s boat to The Sandbar, or The Cove, or The Island (I’m using proper nouns because in every boating locality these places are referred to as specific locations), it’s a wonder we haven’t tested a boat with this name in the 69 years we’ve been in publication. Way to go, Sea Pro! And, not just for the name. The 225FLX Sandbar Boat is designed and outfitted with features to make it shine for boat buyers who regularly visit their local gathering spot, the beach brigade, the cove captains, the sandbar bosses.

As our test proved, this is a versatile boat. Read on to discover more about it.

Engines

You can power the Sea Pro FLX with a variety of outboard engine brands. That is to say, a given dealer may offer it with one or more brands of power. We think boats that offer you a choice of power is a good thing.

Our test boat was powered by a single, inline-4 Suzuki 200-hp outboard. This delivered good performance for this boat. Check out what we thought.

See a video review of our test boat’s Suzuki outboard, here.

The 225FLX rides on a conventional V-hull with a moderate 17.5 degrees of deadrise. This is not a boat that is going to offer a high cruising speed on choppy water, like other boats that sport a deeper V.

That said, properly handled the 225FLX can readily traverse open water safely and comfortably when properly handled. In fact, our test took place on a day of questionable weather, with 20-knot winds whipping up steep, 3-foot whitecaps. In these conditions, the Sea Pro’s ability to stay on plane at 15 mph—something a similar boat with a deeper V would be challenged to achieve, by the way—allowed proceeding in dry, slam-free comfort. The optional Zip Wake auto trim tabs helped in this. It’s all about setting your expectations.

Shallower deadrise also results in higher efficiency due to easier planing. This allows the boat to achieve good performance with a 200 hp Suzuki inline-4 outboard. Our tester hit 30 mph in 10.3 seconds and topped out over 40 mph. The chart shows the fuel burn, which I deem excellent for a coastal boat this size. Larger 250 hp options are available.

Also, the scant 14 inches the 225FLX draws can be attributed to its hull form. That’s knee-deep, easy-wading, even for kids. You might consider that shallow draft one of the “sandbar features.”

Interior and Accessories

Wading around the boat is what Sea Pro envisioned when it developed the innovative Sandbar Table that mounts to the transom, just above the waterline. This facilitates serving snacks while beached or anchored shallow.

Other sandbar-specific features include a tremendous head compartment—the largest we’ve seen in a boat this size. There’s a sink, porthole and our tester sported the optional marine head with a pump-out. For long days beached or at anchor, your crew will need relief and this head provides it comfortably.

Let’s review the seating. Forward, the V-shaped seats combine with the seat on the console front to allow a group to gather around the optional table. Optional backrests convert the seats to lounges. Pull the cushions (these fit inside the head—we checked) and use the optional table as a filler to create a casting platform. The seats conceal draining storage.

Aft, folding jump seats create a three-to-four-person-wide lounge out of the aft platform. Big storage is inside. Want to face aft? The leaning post backrest flip flops to do just that. Additionally, an optional cooler slides out from beneath the leaning post to form either a footrest or another seat, or for easy access to the cooler itself. 

Flip that backrest the other way and take your spot at the helm. There is comfort seated or standing thanks to the footrest and there was enough room at the helm, further enhanced by the tilt helm power steering. There’s also space for a variety of electronics, including big-screen MFDs, to add to the standard Simrad 9-incher. An Audison Marine Audio stereo is also standard, along with a compass, and the Sea Pro Connect app. I appreciated the dry box atop the console: Every boat needs a “Captain’s Box” at the helm for wallets, licenses, glasses and more. Overhead, the T-top provided good sun coverage and impressed me in several ways. Made in-house by Sea Pro, the top features powder-coated pipework, an underside that matches the hull color, and a grab handle incorporated into its perimeter that I found perfectly placed for boarding the boat from a high dock. 

Fishing standards include trolling-motor wiring, raw-water washdown, under-gunwale rod racks, four gunwale rod holders, a 68-quart stern cooler-box, two 120-quart boxes under the bow seats and a 12-gallon livewell.

The price is definitely a feature. Offered for $81,932 as a nicely equipped version with hull color, trim tabs, and a 200 Suzuki, the MSRP for a loaded version like we tested runs $103,361. This boat is a deal in today’s boat market, dear reader.

For comparison, I suggest you look at the Sportsman Open 212 ($89,495 with a F200XSA2 Yamaha in white). It’s a new 2025 model, and though it’s console head compartment is not as large as that of the Sea Pro, it comes with a tall, tempered-glass windshield, which I prefer to the short standard windshield aboard the Sea Pro.

In characterizing the Sea Pro 225FLX Sandbar it may be easy to say that it is a good boat for the money. I’ll just say I think it is a good boat. Check it out for yourself and let me know what you think.

How We Tested

• Engine: 200 hp Suzuki DF200
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/16” x 20” 3-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 2.50:1 Fuel Load: 75 gal. Water on Board: 0 gal. Crew Weight: 360 lb.

High Points

• The built-in-house T-top proved sturdy in rough water and offers an integrated handrail to ease boarding from the dock.
• You’ll appreciate the dry box atop the helm for a variety of reasons.
• This boat boasts the biggest head in its class.
• Through-bolted hatch lids finished on both sides.

Low Point

• The standard windshield is too low to provide any real protection. Order the optional and removable hard enclosure.

Extra Point

• The standard Sea Pro App keeps you in touch with bilge-pump activity, battery status and is your direct line to service help should you need it.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Operation, Efficiency

The post Boat Test: 2025 Sea Pro 225FLX appeared first on Boating Mag.