COOL KOOZIES FLOATING SUNGLASSES NEW STINGRAY 225 SE

P.
104

YOU NEVER
THOUGHT
OF THESE

12 BOAT
INSURANCE
TIPS P.
106

REGULATOR
26XO
GOING FOR
IT ALL!

FLYBRIDGE
P.
112

VS. EXPRESS
HOW TO
P.
42

SEA-TRIAL
AN ENGINE

C
C E RT I F I E D B O AT T E S T S
YAMAHA WAVERUNNER EXR / STARCRAFT SVX 211 OB
NOR-TECH 340 SPORT / SAILFISH 360 CC / REGULATOR 26XO
JEANNEAU LEADER 7.5 CC / MALIBU WAKESETTER 20 VTX
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020 V O L U M E 93 NUMBER 1
 ADVENTURE AWAITS
Experience a crossover that offers luxury and power with precision, in the new Tiara Sport 38 LX. Making
its debut at the 2019 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the 38 LX is perfectly appointed, with
transformational seating aft that converts to sun pads both port and starboard.
 L U X U RY S P O R T I N M OT I O N

A centerline pass through makes moving throughout easy, from the bow seating through the sleek, modern
cockpit, past the exterior galley, to the ample seating aft. A flexible storage area and head are below. All
wrapped up in a stunning design. It is a beautiful balance for the perfect combination of sport and comfort.
Visit your local factory authorized dealer or TiaraSport.com to learn more.
Limited Time Only
POWERED BY Uniquely Grady-White.
gradywhite.com
REMEMBER to always observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and drive. Dress properly with a USCG-approved personal floatation device and protective gear.
© 2020 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. 1-866-894-1626
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. That’s why boaters choose Yamaha for the long run. For life. Because reliability starts here.
 02.20
BOATINGMAG.COM
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020
F
FEATURES
ON THE COVER
The Regulator 26XO is
designed and built to fish
the skinny water inshore or
run offshore to the blue
water with equal ability
and aplomb.
Photo by Bill Doster
ILLUSTRATION: TIM BOWER
P.106
BOAT OF THE YEAR ARE YOU IN GOOD FLYBRIDGE VS.
We tested hundreds of HANDS? EXPRESS
boats and selected the Here are 12 boat-insurance We pit two Viking 38s
one category-buster to details every boater against each other to
win the crown. Who won needs to ask about before see which style is best
this year? they buy. for you.
BY KEVIN FALVEY BY KEVIN FALVEY BY PETER FREDERIKSEN
P.104 P.106 P.112
MEET THE LEGEND
FEBRUARY 13-17, 2020 / B TENT: B229

T H E L E G E N D L I V E S O N • B L AC K F I N B OAT S.C O M

212 CC 242 CC 242 DC 272CC 272DC 332 CC

 02.20 MOTORHEAD P.100
+ Mercury Racing shows off its
BOATINGMAG.COM new 450R
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020
+ Mercury propellers

C ELECTRONICS P.122
+ Simrad BoatConnect

CERTIFIED
TESTS
P.80 SAILFISH
36 0 C C
This wide-beam
center-console
is rugged and
sophisticated. P.25

P.84 NOR-TECH
34 0 S PO RT
Do you believe you
can fly? Hop in and
hit the throttles.

P.88 REGULATOR P.25

2 6XO
One big, bad bay
boat, at your service.

P.92 JEANNEAU
LEA DE R 7. 5 + On Board with ...
+ Captain’s Test
P.94 STARCRAFT
SVX 2 11 O B
+ For Comparison’s Sake
+ Online This Month
P.96 MALIBU + News
WAKE SET TER 20 V TX
+ First Impressions
P.98 YAMAHA + Gear Head
WAV E RUNNER
EXR + 5 Things
 430 ASC

380 SSC
(Outboard
Spring 2020)

350 CBR

THE DECISION TO CHOOSE EXCELLENCE ENHANCES OUR LIVES

IN WAYS WE COULD NEVER IMAGINE. While many may lay claim to it,
only Formula delivers the excellence you have come to expect. It’s now available
in a lineup that is six models strong and growing – the revolutionary Formula
Crossover fleet!
Formula Crossovers combine the unparalleled confident command of our Super
Sport and FAS3TECH® lineage with open bow and cabin elements. Each model,
from 33 to 43 feet, presents smart space allocation with dayboat and over-
night versatility. The Formula Crossover SmartZone™ concept creates separate
400 SSC
areas for a variety of activities while encouraging connections among guests,
from the expansive bow to dual and triple helm seating to the outdoor kitchen
and wraparound seating aft. Whether sterndrive or outboard, every Crossover
430 SSC boasts a convertible rear-facing sunpad and roomy swim platform, adding ease
and fun to all your on-water adventures and raft-up platform parties!
The Crossover cabin boasts unprecedented amenities in an open bow design –
330 CBR Ultraleather lounge, stand-up headroom, enclosed head, and from 35 feet and
up, cabin galley with sink and microwave plus permanent queen-size bed aft.
Your time on the water is important. Whether you have a few hours or a week-
end, the perfect Formula Crossover sets you apart and makes your boating even
more satisfying than you expected!
EXCEED EXCELLENCE –
IN THE FORMULA CROSSOVER FLEET!
 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kevin Falvey
DEPUTY EDITOR Pete McDonald
ELECTRONICS AND WEST COAST EDITOR Jim Hendricks
PRESENTS
MANAGING EDITOR Sue Whitney
WATERSPORTS DIRECTOR Garrett Cortese
ART DIRECTOR Ryan Swanson
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Jon Whittle
SENIOR COPY EDITOR Nicole Paskowsky
EDITOR-AT-LARGE, FISHING AND MARINE GROUPS Randy Vance

MISS CONTRIBUTORS Chris Caswell, Dean Travis Clarke, Capt. Vincent Daniello,
Bill Doster, Ken Englert, Michael Folkerts, Peter Frederiksen,

JANUARY/
Joe Friedman, Steve Griffin, Michael “Mick” Hannock,
Jeff Hemmel, Forest Johnson, Tom King,
Craig Kotilinek, John Linn, Charles Plueddeman,

FEBRUARY Capt. John N. Raguso, Lenny Rudow, Tom Schlichter,

JEANNETTE H. / REGULATOR 26XO
ILLUSTRATORS
GROUP PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
ASSOCIATE PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
PRODUCTION MANAGER/ARTIST
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

VICE PRESIDENT / MANAGING DIRECTOR

Glenn Sandridge
407-571-4747; glenn.sandridge@bonniercorp.com
PUBLISHER / BRAND MANAGER
John McEver
407-571-4682; john.mcever@bonniercorp.com
DIRECTOR OF BRAND STRATEGY
Rhonda Mock
407-571-4696; rhonda.mock@bonniercorp.com
MARKETPLACE / ACCOUNT MANAGER
Brian Luke
407-571-4788; brian.luke@bonniercorp.com
DIRECTOR, DIGITAL STRATEGY
Mike Staley
407-571-4803; mike.staley@bonniercorp.com
DETROIT ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Jeff Roberge
248-213-6154; jeff.roberge@bonniercorp.com

BONNIER MEDIA
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Gregory D. Gatto
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Shawn Bean
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, BOATING Kevin Falvey
AND WATERSPORTS GROUP
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dave Weaver
EDITORIAL OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Stephanie Pancratz
COPY CHIEF Cindy Martin
GROUP MARKETING DIRECTOR Haley Bischof
MARKETING MANAGER Christopher Cole
DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR Mark MacKenzie
DIGITAL CONTENT STRATEGIST Jackie Fry
DIGITAL CONTENT PRODUCTION Michellina Jones
AND PRESENTATION DIRECTOR
DIGITAL PRODUCER Brian Daugherty

CHAIRMAN Lars Dahmén

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Eric Zinczenko
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Joachim Jaginder
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, BONNIER MEDIA Gregory D. Gatto
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, BONNIER SUBSCRIPTIONS David Ritchie
CHIEF DIGITAL REVENUE OFFICER Sean Holzman
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, CONSUMER PRODUCTS Elise Contarsy
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, EVENTS Jonathan Moore
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, DIGITAL OPERATIONS David Butler
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, MANAGING DIRECTOR, CORPORATE SALES John Graney
VICE PRESIDENT, PUBLIC RELATIONS Perri Dorset
VICE PRESIDENT, DATA SCIENCE AND ANALYTICS Mark Crone
VICE PRESIDENT, ENTERPRISE SOLUTIONS Shawn Macey
GENERAL COUNSEL Jeremy Thompson
HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR Kim Putman

Printed in the USA

PHOTO For reprints, send an email to reprints@bonniercorp.com.

GALLERIES Occasionally, we make portions of our subscriber list available

to carefully screened companies that offer products and
AND services we think might be of interest to you. If you do not want
to receive these offers, please advise us at 515-237-3697.
VIDEOS This product is from
sustainably managed All contents copyright ©2020 Bonnier Corporation. No use may be made of materials con-
forests and controlled tained herein without express written consent. For inquiries, please contact us at Bonnier
sources. Corporation, 460 N. Orlando Ave., Suite 200, Winter Park, FL 32789.

SC AN ME
Go to www.boatingmag.com/cover-girl FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SUBSCRIPTION QUESTIONS,
or scan here to view all our such as renewals, address changes, email preferences, billing and account status, go to boatingmag.com/cs. You can also email
BGMcustserv@cdsfulfillment.com. In the U.S. call toll-free 800-289-0399. Outside the U.S. call 515-237-3697 or write to Boating
cover girl photos and videos Magazine, PO Box 6364, Harlan, IA 51593. Retail Single Copy Sales: ProCirc Retail Solutions Group, Tony DiBisceglie.
 M37
More Power, More Functionality
*OUSPEVDJOH*DPNTOFXnPBUJOH7)'NBSJOF
radio. Rugged enough for commercial use,
ZFUSFmOFEGPSUIFDSVJTJOHBOETQPSUCPBU
markets. Bring it On.

Float’n Flash Technology

12-Hour Battery
Large, Easy to Read Display
Sleek, Form Fitting Design
Loud Audio
AquaQuake™ Drain Function
Channel History Button

Visit www.icomamerica.com/marine
for additional features and specs.
 EDITORIAL By Kevin Falvey

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 .

D
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 That’s good news for boaters,
archipelago nation’s territory, suffered immensely following Hurricane whether they run their own
Dorian. Expanding, he noted relief efforts underway and stated boats across the Gulf Stream to
that more aid is still needed and welcome. In fact, I caught up to the visit the Bahamas or fly in and
minister just prior to his attendance at a fundraiser for One Bahamas 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 cruising boaters.
SAFELY
Scan this tag
“The Abaco Beach Resort fuel dock is open.  Our MarineMax Vacations operation does not have
or visit this link a set date yet. The resort will be 100 percent operational by April 2020 for a big fishing tournament
to confidently
hosted there,” he said.
make relief
donations for Bermudez adds that MarineMax will be evaluating the cruising area in January (while you are reading
the Bahamas: this) to determine when the company’s fleet of power catamarans will be returning for charter duty.
samaritans
purse.com. 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

2 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
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.

DESIGN YOUR OWN PONTOON AT SYLVANMARINE.COM

YOU’RE UP FOR MOST ANYTHING. SO IS THE F250.

U N M ATC H E D V E R S AT I L I T Y

NEW
LEADER 6.5 LEADER 7.5 LEADER 9.0 LEADER 10.5 LEADER 12.5

THE NEW LEADER 12.5 LAUNCHING SPRING 2020

From 22 to 40 feet, these stable and powerful V-shaped hulls provide excellent seakeeping and secure handling
while underway. Jam-packed with ample storage, multiple berths, enclosed head compartment, galley, and forward
and aft sundecks, any one of our Leaders is the highly versatile boat you’ve been waiting for.

POWERED BY
jeanneau.com
 ON BOARD WITH...

FOR COMPARISON’S SAKE

ONLINE THIS MONTH

BOATINGMAG.COM
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 is a celebrated naval architect perhaps best

Lou known for designing smooth-handling, sweet-riding recre-

Codega ational 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
Naval deep-V hull form. We caught up with Codega on a recent sea
Architect trial of the new Regulator 26XO. —John Page Williams

What is most important in designing fishing boats? as sharp, so there is more twist in the hull bottom. The
I want to make them controllable, predictable, safe and transition is key—how much and where to change the shape.
efficient, especially in rough seas. Safety is particularly Getting it right is a blend of engineering science and experi-
important when families are involved. ence. And yes, there’s art too, but it’s not like I guess.

What is different about Regulator’s new 26XO? Are you bored yet, drawing fishing boats?
PHOTO: JAY FLEMING

The 26XO is a versatile design, at home in the shallows but I learn constantly, even when I run a hull I’ve drawn, like
still capable in reasonable offshore waters. The transom my own 23 Offshore Flyaway. I watch a wave coming, how
deadrise is shallower than in Regulator’s offshore hulls it runs under the hull, how the structure responds, what’s
(17  degrees vs. 24 degrees), but the bow deadrise is nearly 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
 HIGH-END STICKY
All New Exclusive SEAT Try to

FULL THROTTLE INSURANCE KOOZIES tip it over, we

dare you. The
No matter how great your cooler is, suction-cup
bottom holds
beverages lose their chill quickly after
CANCELLED? you pull them from the ice on a hot
it in place.

summer day. Here are three high-end

NON-RENEWED? koozies that go way
SKYROCKETING RATES? beyond the old foam
ones in both style
WE CAN HELP. and substance.
—Pete McDonald
CALL TODAY!

LOUNGE RAMBLE
EST
THE BSERVICE LIZARD
A good price
ON The load-
and-lock gas-
CLAIMIN THE to pay for ket keeps your
TRY! keeping cans can securely
INDUS or bottles cold in place while
on your boat. underway.

COLEMAN TOADFISH YETI

LOUNGER KOOZIE NON-TIPPING CAN RAMBLER COLSTER

PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) GARRETT CORTESE, COURTESY COLEMAN, COURTESY YETI,

COOLER
THE CHILL: Made of
stainless steel, and also THE CHILL: Who needs
double-walled and vacuum- cup holders? The Toadfish
features a suction cup under-
THE CHILL: Designed to
hold standard 12-ounce
cans, this stainless-steel
drink holder is double-

COURTESY BOOT DUSSELDORF INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

sealed, the Coleman touts
a sweat-resistant exterior
body and a grippy bottom,
built a first- rate reputation, so it doesn’t slide around
providing expertise that’s second to on deck. Flexible interior
none. You’ll get custom-tailored gripper fins hold cans and
bottles in place while you’re
insurance — agreed value hull,
keeping your beverage cool
liability and special coverage, plus
on board.
personalized service and rates that
won’t gouge your pocket. THE SPILL: It doesn’t fit in
all cup holders.
Call us 7 days a week at:
PRICE: $12.99;
800-962-5659 coleman.com
neath 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.
THE SPILL: The slim-can
adapter is an option.
PRICE: $24;
toadfishoutfitters.com
walled 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

ONLINE
THIS MONTH

INSURANCE
SHOW
TIPS!
Member: Professional Insurance Agents Association It’s boat-show season, and if you’re
Better Business Bureau looking to buy your boat at the boat
One Pleasant Avenue, Pt. Washington, NY 11050 show nearest you, follow our nine
Toll Free: 800-962-5659 tips to get the best show experience
Fax: 516-704-2285 • Web: www.totaldollar.com and the best deal. Go to boatingmag
E-mail: info@totaldollar.com .com/nine-best-boat-show-tips or
scan this tag!
John Posey, TX Buzz Fyhrie, FL
972-775-3523 888-327-8467
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 for 15 minutes, ensuring it gets into

the engine. Tilt the outboard/drive
BLAHS all the way down. Cover the boat
and engine.
So, it’s wintertime. Your D. A and B
boat is covered and E. None of the above
asleep (northern readers),
or resting and waiting for 4. You’ve put your boat on the trailer and
those occasional warm, notice that after a couple of weeks
sitting, it’s still dripping water from
sunny days when you somewhere along the keel line. What
can ride. What are some is your next move?
things you can do in the A. Nothing. It’s normal for boats to drip
meantime? —John Tiger water all winter.
(Answers on page 30)
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.
1. You live in the South, and your season A. Stand guard with a varmint rifle. C. Put a bucket under the hull to catch
has just slowed. Your boat is not win- B. Keep mouse/rodent traps in the drips.
terized. What should you do to keep your boat. D. B and C
it ready? C. Put boxes of mothballs in the interior. E. All of the above

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

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?
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
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.

A HELPING HAND Mercury engines, such as

FOR THE BAHAMAS
Like everyone in the
boating community, the
people who work for
Mercury Marine were sad-
dened to see the devasta-
tion 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 ev-
eryone who purchased the
shirt, many of whom were
inspired by some outstand-
ing social media engage-
ment by Mercury’s partners,
made this fundraising effort
a big success,” says Michelle
Dauchy, Mercury Marine’s
chief marketing officer.
Boatbuilders who use
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.

2 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
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
If there’s an activity that
involves riding a board on
the water, I’m all in. But most
board sports are depen-
dent 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 electric-
powered hydrofoil, I loved
that I had all the power I
needed to ride under my feet.
The Fliteboard is powered
by a marine battery em-
bedded in the board’s body,
inside a patent-pending
waterproof compartment.
The rider holds a magnetic
remote-control leash that
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 stand-
up 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
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 most-
ly in the domain of yacht
owners looking for the next
awesome toy. $12,935; flite
board.com —Pete McDonald

C A P TA I N ’S chance of a freeze. 4. D. B and C are the be open. Some welcome these

T E ST best answers, and northern dealers types of jobs.
(Answers from page 28) 2. E. B, C and D are especially C if your close up shop and
PHOTOS: COURTESY FLITEBOARD

1. D. Trickle charging all good ideas to boat is kept in the go south for the CAPTAIN’S
will help ensure a keep pests away. garage. winter. But typi- TESTS ONLINE
hot battery when cally, wintertime Test your knowledge
you want to use it. 3. C. This is the best 5. D. Depending on is best for major of boating with more
Keeping water out practice to keep the local dealer’s work because Captain’s Tests at
of the engine is a your boat ready practice and when dealers are gen- boatingmag.com/
must if there’s any for your next ride. it may or may not erally slower and captains-test.

3 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
 LOVE THE LOOK OF THIS HELM?

JOIN THE CLUB

GPSMAP® 8600 SERIES WITH WITH AUTO GUIDANCE 1

10”, 12” OR 16” TOUCHSCREEN FULLY PRELOADED MAPPING WITH NAVIONICS® DATA ACTIVECAPTAIN® APP READY
HD IPS DISPLAYS NETWORK CAPABLE BLUECHART G3 + LAKEVÜ G3 ®
WITH BUILT-IN WIFI®

1
Auto Guidance is for planning purposes only and does not replace safe navigation operations. Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance. ©2019 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries.
 FI
FIRST
IMPRESSION
By Kevin Falvey

INTREPID
345 WALKAROUND
A new boat inspired by customer
requests for roomy overnight accom-
modations 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 swing-in dive door with folding ladder twin or triple outboards to 1,350 hp. It
overnight digs. Note that the forward makes water access easy, and anglers runs on Intrepid’s transverse step hull
berth converts to a U-shaped settee that will appreciate the abovedecks corner and starts at $390,000.
includes a high-low table. livewells and a folding rear seat that
· LOA: 34'6" · BEAM: 10'6" · DRAFT: 24 degrees · DISPLACEMENT:
An ideal dayboat as well, the 345 provides more cockpit space. 15,000 lb. · FUEL CAPACITY: 320 gal.
Walkaround features an aft-facing seat The 345 Walkaround can be custom-
I N T R E P I D P O W E R B O AT S
beside the helm console. A hullside styled and rigged with your choice of Largo, Florida; 954-922-7544; intrepidboats.com

STINGRAY
225 SE
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 wind-
PHOTOS: (FROM TOP ) COURTESY INTREPID POWERBOATS,

shield. 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 system, and three-year blister-protection hull. Look for more details coming soon
each other, and offers easy access to the plan leading the long standard equipment about the new 225 SE.
COURTESY STINGRAY BOATS

anchor locker. All upholstery consists of list, value is ensured.

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
Offered at $61,000 with a 300 hp Volvo
Penta Duoprop sterndrive, the 225 SE
runs on Stingray’s proprietary Z-Plane
· 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

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
 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

SLIP-ON SHOES UPF 50 BUCKET HAT

Here is the ideal boating hat. It’s light-
Full-grain leather uppers and suede interior leather make
PHOTOS: COURTESY SUZUKI MARINE (PROP),

weight, fast-drying, floatable and ventilated,

these shoes not just cozy-comfortable but also long-
with a perfectly adjustable, one-size-fits-all
wearing and suitable for business wear. Casco Bay shoes
hatband for a comfortable fit. Its UPF 50
GARRETT CORTESE (SHOES, HAT)

are hand-stitched and only get more comfortable with age

rating means it provides the best possible
as the leather is conditioned by wear. So, as you keep those
sun protection, and when you don’t need it,
nonmarring, oiled leather-upper shoes tap dancing away
roll it and tuck it in a hip pocket. It’ll look
on your deck—without leaving a mark—they get ever
just fine the next time you wear it. $29.99;
more comfortable. $89.99; llbean.com
westmarine.com

3 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
 YETI CROSSROADS
BACKPACK 23
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 hold-
ers. A padded, zippered pocket on
the top holds pens, earbuds, a flask
and meds for easy access. A larger
MARINCO EEL compartment holds a laptop and
PIGTAIL ADAPTER books, and there’s an additional
A part of the EEL shore-power connector pocket for 10-inch tablets.
system, Marinco’s P504-30 pigtail adapter lets $199.99; yeti.com
you connect from a 50-amp dockside recepta-
cle to a 30-amp boatside inlet or power cord. STAR BRITE PREMIUM
The EEL (Easily Engaged Lock) adapters are RESTORER WAX
fully molded and equipped with Marinco’s Star brite’s Premium Restorer
unique sealing collar and covers for use in Wax is designed to produce
wet locations. UL-approved, the EEL patent- professional-grade results, even by
ed jaw-clamp design provides one-handed op- first-time users. It safely removes
eration and a secure, waterproof seal, which medium to heavy oxidation when
completely eliminates the need for a locking applied by hand or with a buffer.
ring. $159.03; wholesalemarine.com Special polymers and UV inhibi-

GARRETT CORTESE (BACKPACK AND WAX), COURTESY SATPAQ, COURTESY HRC

tors seal and protect the restored
surface from stains and fading.
Afterward, an annual application

PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY MARINCO,

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
SatPaq from Higher Ground is a
clip-on smartphone accessory that
enables pay-as-you-go messaging
HRC ROD RACK by satellite. It utilizes geostation-
HRC’s two-part, vertical wall-mount rod rack ary satellites for faster and less
accommodates up to six fishing rods to keep expensive communication than
them organized. The interlocking design allows using low-Earth-orbit satellites. In
you to connect multiple rod-rack sets. Made of addition to two-way text messag-
durable ABS plastic, the 16-inch-wide rod rack ing, SatPaq allows users to access
is easy to set up, and the base section secures location-based weather services;
the rod butts with EVA foam grips. All mount- on-demand, artificial-intelligence-
ing hardware is included, as is a bonus stain- guided first-aid advice; and 24/7
less-steel fish dehooker. $19.99; amazon.com emergency assistance from any-
where. $249 plus messaging fees;
satpaq.com

3 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
 MAKING WAVES /// 5 T H I N G S

FIVE THINGS YOU

DON’T WANT TO
DISCOVER UNDER A bunch

YOUR WINTER A family of

of
clowns
beavers
SHRINK-WRAP

That
chum
brick you
forgot
5
THINGS
A puddle
about

ILLUSTRATIONS: COLIN HAYES

A mutant
fungal MORE THAN 5
colony See more humorous things at boatingmag.com/
five-things.

awaken your inner explorer

set a course for adventure with furuno

Whether you’re cruising to a new hideaway or hunting for a fishing hot spot,
Furuno’s versatile GP1871F and GP1971F combo units will get you there GP1971F

what’s important – enjoying the adventure!

ADD RADAR CAPABILITIES W/OPTIONAL

DRS4W 1ST WATCH WIRELESS RADAR www.furunousa.com
 Unforgettable Adventures.

Feel-Good Savings.
Heed the call of adventure with great insurance coverage.
Boat insurance serviced by the boating experts. Get a fast, free quote today.

geico.com | 1-800-865-4846 | Local Office

Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. In the state of CA, program
provided through Boat Association Insurance Services, license #0H87086. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2019 GEICO
 I LEARNED ABOUT BOATING FROM THIS …

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
A P R E PA R E D B OAT E R neglected to put the transom drain plug in. At
this point, we had drifted several yards off-
I S A SA F E B OAT E R shore. I grabbed the paddle and got us back to
the ramp, got everyone off the boat, and ran to
Even old pros can learn from this new get the trailer. The boat was so heavy, I could
boater’s experience. not crank it onto the trailer. Thankfully, several
other boaters came to my rescue and pushed the

I
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 licens-
es for the wife and me, fishing
In my rush to get us rods, minnows for bait, plenty
out on the lake, I had of fuel for the Mercury 25XD
outboard, a weather radio, and
neglected to put the an ice chest for the catch.
transom drain plug in. I thought it would be best to
load the wife, kids and fishing
gear in the boat, and back the trailer down the ramp to make it easier
ILLUSTRATION: TIM BOWER; PHOTO: COURTESY WEST MARINE

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

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.

4 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
boatingsafetymag.com/boatingsafety
 SEAMANSHIP
P OW E R
POINTERS
Judging a propulsion system during a sea trial.
Boat-show season is here. Time to
look at new boats and perhaps con-
duct 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 acceler-
ation, 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, depend-
ing 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
4 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
efficiency, hamper watersports,
and decrease safety in nasty seas.
Over-propping—turning pro-
pellers with too much pitch—also
hurts hole shot. Propping is easi-
er 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 rat-
ing. 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
By Jim Hendricks
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 boat-
builder’s part. Once the boat is
laden with crew, fuel and gear,
revs come down to within the
rated rpm zone.
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 top-
end, such as power upgrades,
TIP
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 out-
boards, 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 dis-
plays. Take note of fuel economy
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. Plan-
ing at a lower speed keeps fuel
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,
PHOTO: (TOP LEFT) COURTESY SUZUKI
or if it “crabs” to one side when
backing up. This demo will re-
veal maneuverability quirks
and might lead you to consider
a joystick control system or bow
thruster to make docking easier.
Designed for the Driven.
Renowned hull performance. Commanding power. Yacht-like luxury.
The new Everglades 365cc is equipped to pursue the most relentless
offshore prey in impressive style and comfort. Contact your local dealer
today and see for yourself why Everglades boats are beyond measure.

Built for Beyond.™ www.evergladesboats.com

 QUALITY FIRST.
LUXURY STANDARD.

THE ALL NEW

2020 280 OSX
Outboard power, plentiful seating and luxurious accommodations - Introducing
the all new 280 OSX f rom Chaparral.

27’8” 9’0” 12 0 GAL. 6 ,50 0 LBS.

YA CHT
CE RTI FI E D
LOA B EA M F UEL WE IGH T
PASSENG ER CA P

BUILD YO URS TODAY | WWW.CHA PA RR A LB OATS .COM

 CHANGE YOUR
FILTER It is im-
portant to change
oil and fuel filters
regularly. Removing
BOAT an oil filter helps oil

Q&A
flow faster.
DOCTOR
BOATINGMAG.COM
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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?
Jim Soukup
Auburn, New Hampshire
A:
Hi, Jim. If your tech pressure-tested the gear case and found
PHOTOS: COURTESY WEST MARINE (2)

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

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 | 4 5
 BOAT DOCTOR /// Q & A
Q: Doc, this is not a boat ques-
tion exactly, but how can
I keep my dock hose from
DOCK HOSE
getting completely tangled?
Marc Robertson
Lewes, Delaware
TANGLES
A:
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
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 notwithstand-
ing, Rheos sunglasses will not suffer the
same fate. Because, as we confirmed, they
float. The new Rheos Coopers style—rem-
iniscent of old-school Wayfarers—that
we tested offer ultralight, TPX composite
4 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 1 9
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 noz-
zle off, the twists built into the hose
untwist themselves as you coil it up.
Happy boat washing!
WE
TEST
STUFF
frame construction and inset pads for the
bridge of your nose. The polarized UV400
lenses are shatterproof and grant excel-
lent 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
TOO COOL?
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 con-
tinuity. 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 over-
heating. 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. Giv-
en the troubleshooting steps
you have taken, I suggest you
replace the thermostat.
A BET
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 howev-
er I choose at almost any rpm
PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) COURTESY WEST MARINE, COURTESY RHEOS
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).
 BOAT DOCTOR /// Q & A

BOTTOM PAINT
Q: Dear Boat Doc, I just
bought a new (to me) Grady-
White 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
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 (gun-
wale) is cored with ½-inch
plywood, which can be seen
looking up from above. Do
I really need to use backing
U N C OV E R E D
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
NAUTICAL
a source for the four washers.
If the substrate was just fiber-
glass 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.

Philadelphia BAT T E RY T E R M I N A L NO-NO

The centered placement of the retaining strap
A: Your boat will certainly ac- on these flip-up backrest supports allows the

PHOTO: PETE MCDONALD

cumulate 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
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

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

DIY + Weekend
eekend
end
orkbook
Workbook

SKILL LEVEL

3.5 OF 5

FINISH TIME
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 out-
board ($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-the-
INSTALLING
AN OUTBOARD
JACK PLATE
Jack plates optimize performance and enhance the shallow-water operation of outboard boats.
Jack plates perform two key some flats skiffs. There are of travel via a hydraulic
functions. One is setback, manual jack plates, but the actuator. Featuring
which distances an outboard most versatile models allow corrosion-resistant
from the boat’s transom, for vertical adjustments powder-coated aluminum
allowing the propeller to while underway using construction and stainless-
run in less-turbulent water. electric controls at the helm. steel hardware, it’s available
Jack plates also move an Brands such as Bob’s in setbacks ranging from
outboard up and down to Machine Shop, CMC, 4 to 12 inches. We chose one
optimize performance and SeaStar Solutions and T-H with a setback of 6 inches for
enable a boat to venture Marine offer a wide range our 200 hp outboard on a
into shallower water than of models. For this retrofit 21-foot bay boat. With the
it might otherwise. Jack installation, we chose a boat on a trailer, we removed
plates find the greatest SeaStar standard jack plate, the outboard prior to
applications on bass boats, which is rated for up to beginning the installation.
bay boats, tunnel hulls and 300 hp and offers 5.8 inches —Jim Hendricks
SELECTING THE SETBACK
“There is no set rule on setbacks,” says Davor Baros, the builders because they know their hulls the best.
product manager for SeaStar jack plates. “Boat- “For an aftermarket installation, the best thing to do
ILLUSTRATIONS: TIM BARKER

waterline sealant, such builders test different setbacks to find out which one
as 3M 4000 UV provides the best performance.” Performance can be
• Jigsaw affected by flotation at the back of the boat because
• Crimping tool more setback means moving the center of gravity
• Mounting screws for farther back. Also, the location of trim tabs can af-
relays fect the need for greater setback to get the prop into
cleaner water, Baros reveals. This decision is left to
is look at the setbacks similar boats get from build-
ers,” 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.”

5 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
 +
CHECK FOR
CLEARANCE

TIP
Starting with the jack
plate at its lowest
position, verify full
steering travel through
If the setback is 10 inches or the
the entire trim range.
outboard is over 250 hp, six bolts are
At the full down po-
required for mounting the engine to the
sition with steering at
jack plate, and the jack plate to the
center, carefully tilt
transom. A transom stiffener for
the engine to verify if
the upper bolts is recommended
interference occurs as
regardless of setback or
the outboard is tilted,
horsepower.
paying close attention
to the steering cylin-
der, tie bars, steering
hoses, engine rigging
and the outboard
itself. If interference
exists, add a tilt-limit-

TIP
ing device or move the
motor up to a higher
set of mounting holes.

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 manufacturer-
supplied 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
ILLUSTRATIONS: TIM BARKER
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
INSTALL THE WIRING
HARNESS Find a dry,
accessible place near the
stern of the boat to mount
the two relays. Use mount-
ing screws (not supplied)
to secure them, using the
mounting holes on the up-
and 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
INSTALL THE SWITCH
Cut an appropriate rectan-
gular opening in the dash.
Route the two switch wires
(blue/white and green/
white) from the relay har-
ness to the hole. Connect a
10-amp-fused wire to a 12-
volt 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/
REINSTALL THE OUT-
BOARD Use a hoist to lift
and maneuver the out-
board. Select the mounting
hole on the outboard brack-
et 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 en-
gine bracket. Fit each bolt
with a washer and locknut,
and use a torque wrench to
tighten to 90 foot-pounds,

until you’re ready for step
five. Temporarily connect-
ing the wire harness might
also allow you to actuate
the jack plate to access the
engine mounting holes.
through the transom (from
the inside) and through the
jack-plate mount. Attach
a washer and locknut, and
tighten to the recommend-
ed torque specs.
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.
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.
or the engine manufactur-
er’s recommended value.
Use the rocker switch to
test for clearance (see
above), then seat the
switch on the dash.

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 | 5 1
 without the proper fuel-related boat fire.
tools. See your local Instead, replace it with
marine-supply store. a quality anti-siphon
valve. Hint: High-
TANK Finally, check quality valves cost three
the tank carefully for times as much as the
leaks, cracks, and loose cheap ones.
mounting. Unless it’s
leaking fuel into the
FUEL and refill quickly after
squeezing. Primer
bilge, you might not
even notice it. I’ve ser-

SYSTEMS bulbs have check valves

inside that can fail and
leave you stranded. Use
viced fuel tanks that
had all mounting tabs
broken or cracked;  the
CHECKUP a factory primer bulb;
aftermarket models are
only thing keeping
the  tank in place was
Tips from tank to filter. typically of lesser quali- the weight of the fuel
A fuel-system problem might leave you stranded ty and won’t flow fuel as and the tank-hose con-
on the water, or cause a fire or explosion. Problems well as OEM units. nections. While a new
caused by poor fuel quality and ethanol-extended tank can be expensive,
(E10 and now E15) fuels increase maintenance CLAMPS Fuel-line it’s still a lot cheaper
and service costs, and even cause engine failure clamps are critical. than a boat fire.
for boaters. Utilize these six tenets to help prevent They prevent fuel leaks
inconvenience and tragedy. —John Tiger and, just as important, ANTI-SIPHON VALVE
air leaks. Air leaks can These are installed in
FUEL LINE Replace FILTER The fuel filter ruin an engine in no the outlet fitting from
fuel lines older than should be replaced at time because the fuel- the tank to the engine,
three years with least annually. If your air mixture will become usually threaded into
EPA-compliant hose. rig doesn’t have a water- lean and starve the en- the fitting, with a hose
Install new clamps. The separating fuel filter, gine for fuel. Use new nipple on the other
innards of older fuel now’s a good time to add clamps if the old ones end where the fuel line
hoses are susceptible to one. Check the filter’s won’t hold, are corrod- connects. They keep
alcohol deterioration. flow rate against your ed, or are falling apart. fuel from flowing into
Hose clamps are cheap the bilge if a fuel-line
compared to a damaged failure occurs. If you
Difficulty pumping fuel to the engine? QUICK engine. Many engine experience valve fail-
Position your primer bulb vertically manufacturers use ure, don’t simply re-
with the arrow pointing straight up. TI P Oetiker (oetiker.com) move the check-valve
clamps for fuel-hose ball and spring from
connections. These are inside the anti-siphon
They can collapse or engine’s maximum secure, high-quality fitting. It’s against Coast
fall apart, clogging the fuel-burn rate. A filter clamps; however, they Guard regulations and
fuel system and starv- with a drain bowl is su- are single-use only, could get you in trou-
ing the engine of fuel. perior. However, the and can be difficult ble insurance-wise,
Newer fuel lines use standard spin-on types to remove and install and might cause a
PHOTOS: (FROM TOP) JIM HENDRICKS, JOHN TIGER (4)

a tough inner liner, also work. Placement in

visible by looking into
the end of the hose. It
makes the hose stiff-
er and harder to work
with, and it’s more ex-
pensive. When routing
the hose, make bends
with a radius of at least
6 inches to prevent
flow reduction.
the fuel line should be
between the tank outlet
and the engine inlet.
PRIMER BULB Many
outboards use prim-
er bulbs, which may
be damaged by eth-
anol fuels. A primer
bulb should feel stiff
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.

5 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
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

A
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 outboard-
powered 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.

A X O P A R 2 S T O R I E S
A X O P A R 3 S T O R I E S
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.

A X O P A R 4 S T O R I E S
 KEY WEST, USA AXOPAR 37 ST AXOPAR OWNERS

Why Key West is best

After years of he pursuit of an adrenaline fix has always

T
“It reminded me of my dirt bike days where you
hiring boats, been in Jack Thomas’ nature. In a previous try to ride the top of the obstacle; the boat handled the
life the hit was administered through dirt conditions brilliantly.”
Jack Thomas
bike racing and marathons but now, in his Beyond Amazing, which Jack believes is the only Axopar in
took the plunge 50s, Jack needed a new way to find that buzz. the Keys, fits perfectly with his active lifestyle. “The best
on his Axopar Having settled on an Axopar 37 ST with a optional extra I fitted was a roof rack, which allows me to lash
37 ST, Beyond pair of 350hp outboards Jack, with his son and a skipper from my stand-up paddle board to the T-top and head off to the
Amazing dealer Nautical Adventures, did the delivery trip local islands for a paddle. The outboards and shallow draught
from Fort Lauderdale to Key West electing to gives me access to the amazing world on my doorstep,” he says.
take the offshore route south through Now with his new business – Beyond Amazing Key West
the Atlantic. – Jack is offering people the chance to experience the stunning
“We experienced consistent 4ft waves cruising grounds with bespoke tours of the reefs, islands and
KEY WEST, USA with the occasional 8-footer in the mix,” Keys. The 37, with its combination of performance,
24.5551° N, 81.7800° W Jack says. seakeeping and luxury is the perfect tool for the job.

A X O P A R 5 O W N E R S
A launch like no other
U
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
A X O P
HELSINKI, FINLAND
60.1699° N, 24.9384° E
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.
A R 6 R E V O L U T I O N
A X O P A R 7 R E V O L U T I O N
Axopar 37 –
the market leader reborn
Experience the revolution at Boot Düsseldorf 2020
T
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
A X O P A R
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.
8 R E V O L U T I O N
A X O P A R 9 R E V O L U T I O N
 Gullwing doors
In a first 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
Düsseldorf
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

A X O P A R 10 R E V O L U T I O N
 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

New levels of
comfort
In reaction to owner
feedback there is
now an optional
separate toilet
compartment, with
the option of a
First class cabin shower, to boost
The front cabin has been privacy and comfort
enlarged, meaning it is
even more comfortable,
spacious and welcoming

A X O P A R 11 R E V O L U T I O N
AXOPAR OWNERS AXOPAR 28 CABIN CONNECTICUT, USA

90-year-old
Paul Kempner Age is just a number
hadn’t been
aul Kempner has owned boats for nearly 50

P
He has only had his 28, named Julie, for the last month of the
planning on years but it was after a three-year break season but when it’s back in the water the couple will mainly
from boating that he visited East Coast use the boat for day trips and “hotel cruising”, as Paul calls it.
buying a boat at
Yacht Sales at the Norwalk Boat Show. “We “Here on the Sound we have so many wonderful areas to visit
the Norwalk live on the water in Stamford, Connecticut,” with lots of restaurants and nice hotels, we don’t need a boat
Boat Show… until Paul explains. that we can sleep on,” he explains.
“We were looking for a 15ft runaround to keep on our dock With its fully enclosed wheelhouse and effortless
he saw the and hadn’t even heard of Axopar before performance the 28 Cabin allows Paul and Julie to cruise to
Axopar the show.” He and his partner Julie, 76, clapped eyes on their destination in sheltered comfort and means they don’t
a 28 Cabin with a single 300hp Mercury Verado and have to be out on the water for too long.
28 Cabin were blown away by how different it looked. “It’s Much to Paul’s delight the boat proved itself a worthy
nothing like a Grady White or Pursuit but the level of companion in rough seas on the day he collected it: “We were
protection is so much better and that was a priority for in 3-4ft seas but the boat dealt with it brilliantly and it brought
CONNECTICUT, USA us,” Paul says. home what a quality machine it is.”
41.0534° N, 73.5387° W

A X O P A R 12 O W N E R S
 SAN DIEGO, USA AXOPAR 37 CABIN AXOPAR OWNERS

“My son said two words to me: aft cabin”

The Stroms had ans and Liza Strom were aboard a

H
Their son Harrison, who was ten at the time, caught wind of
not heard of friend’s sailing yacht in San Diego bay the new boat and did his research online, soon discovering the
Axopar until a when they first clapped eyes on an boat was available with an aft cabin. Hans says: “On the way to
Axopar 37. “We had decided we wanted school he said to me, ‘Dad, two words: aft cabin.’” Opting for
chance sighting
a faster boat so that we could travel to the extra cabin has paid off and the four of them have spent
of a 37 Cabin watch our son and daughter compete many happy nights on board, including a week away on
transformed in sailing races,”explains Hans. “We were looking at Cobalts Catalina Island.
the way they go and the like and Axopar wasn’t even on the radar.” “The Axopar is like no other boat I have ever driven,” Hans
boating As they sailed through the bay the local continues. “The bow does not rise and you look down and
Axopar dealer, Jeff Brown, went past in a 37 realise you are doing twice the speed you thought you were.
and their interest was piqued. Before long When I first saw the boat I assumed it would be $500,000 but
they were on sea trial with Liza, who wasn’t in reality it’s half of that.”
SAN DIEGO, USA sold on the idea of a new boat, behind the Whether it’s a 160-mile round trip to watch a sailing regatta
32.7157° N, 117.1611° W wheel and loving every minute. “Now that is a or a blast to the local cove for a paddle board, the 37 is the
boat we can buy,” were her words. Stroms’ perfect companion.

A X O P A R 13 O W N E R S
 RABUS Marine is the

B result of a cutting-
edge 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.

B R A B U S 14 M A R I N E
B R A B U S 15 M A R I N E
 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 jeff@jeffbrownyachts.com yachts@ecys.com
www.nauticalventures.com jeffbrownyachts.com www.ecys.com

Dania Beach - Main Office San Diego - Main Office Yarmouth - Main Office
50 South Bryan Rd, Dania Beach, 2614 Shelter Island Drive, Suite A, 106 Lafayette Street, Yarmouth,
FL 33004 San Diego CA, U.S. 92106 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, Los Angeles Office 101 Front Street, BLDG 1 Belfast,
FL 33408 Los Angeles, 4514 Spencer St., ME 04915
Tel: (561) 612-7076 Torrance, CA 90503 Tel: (954)701-1072
Tel: (310)717-0775
Fort Lauderdale Office Camden Office
4470 Anglers Avenue, Ft. Lauderdale, San Francisco Office 44 Bayview Street, Camden, ME 04843
FL 33312 298 Harbor Drive Sausalito, Tel: (954)701-1072
Tel: (954) 926-5250 CA. 94965
Tel: (510) 701-4880 Salem Office
Sarasota Office 23 Glendale Street, Salem, MA 01970
8050 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Seattle Office Tel: (978) 744-7070
FL 34243 3215 NW 57th St., Seattle, WA 98107
Tel: (941) 355-5500 Tel: (619) 709-0697 Portsmouth Office
1 Maritime Drive, Suite 1, Portsmouth,
Tampa Bay Office 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 @Axopar

Brabus Marine @brabusmarine
 BOAT DOCTOR /// W H AT T O L O O K F O R

BOAT
edges of the blade tips. Hale UPGRADE MATERIAL
compares it to flaps on an air- The traditional bronze used

PROPELLERS
plane wing. Like pitch, cup on inboard props and the alu-
changes load, but adding cup minum on outboards both flex.
can also reduce cavitation, For inboard boats, nibral—
“Before spending money on new propellers, do some help lift the stern as a boat nickel, bronze and aluminum
homework,” says Randy Hale, co-inventor of the Hale MRI comes on plane, or affect trim alloy—or stainless steel on out-
propeller-measuring instrument (halepropeller.com). Take once on plane. boards and sterndrives holds
time for proper sea trials, identify shortcomings in boat per- shape better. While this often
formance and handling, and set realistic expectations, he CHANGE RAKE Rake increases performance, Hale
says. “More often than not, we’ll look at modifying existing quantifies how much of a pro- says inboard diesels and out-
propellers before suggesting new ones.” peller’s blade area is in front boards of 150 hp or more typ-
Here’s a look at how propeller design parameters of or behind the propeller hub. ically employ this advantage
affect performance on both inboard and outboard boats. Combined with other propeller best. Stronger material is also
—Capt. Vincent Daniello characteristics, altering rake more durable.
is a powerful tool for changing
INCREASE DIAMETER boatbuilders marketing based boat handling or trim.
All things equal, larger-diam- on top speed might choose
eter propellers deliver better less-efficient but faster props. ADD SKEW Skew is a
efficiency. Inboard-powered Adding blades often mitigates banana-shaped curve of the
boatbuilders balance this vibration or noise too. blades from hub to tip. It length-
against boat draft and aperture ens the leading edge of each
clearance; outboard- and stern- PITCH Pitch refers to blade, which can mitigate cavi-
drive-powered boats are lim- how many inches a propeller tation and smooth interference
ited by gear-case dimensions. would travel in one revolution from turbulent water flowing
Improper replacement props, through a semi-soft medium, off propeller shaft struts.
years of grinding during repairs, such as Jell-O. It’s really a way
or even wear from sand, silt to quantify the angle of the
and water may leave props un- face of the blade—more pitch
(TOP RIGHT), COURTESY MICHIGAN WHEEL MARINE (3)

dersize. Bigger props decrease

the blade-tip-to-hull clearance,
though, which may increase
PHOTOS: COURTESY ACME PROPELLERS
is closer to horizontal, while
less pitch is closer to vertical.
SWITCH TO
Altering pitch adjusts propeller COMPLEX

propeller noise. load and therefore engine load,

ADD BLADES Increas-
ing the number of propeller
blades often increases cruising
speed and cruising fuel econo-
my. This often comes at a loss
of top-end performance, so
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
BLADE SHAPE
Small-boat propellers facturing now allow propellers allow more
typically utilize the prop pitch changes precise loading to
same pitch across the along and across better match engine
whole blade, but this each blade, creat- horsepower curves,
is changing. Sophis- ing more-efficient mitigate cavitation,
ticated computer cambered foils. These and decrease noise
modeling and manu- complex-geometry and vibration.

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 | 6 9

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.
W
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 ma-
rina’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
7 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
livewell, washdown,
transom shower, sink or
whatever water circuit
is protected against
freeze damage.
MAKE A MULTITOOL
super neat. Remove BAILER For this use, I Cut the scoop shape
the cap—I find the jug’s
threads mate with those
of some fill pipes, which
suggest leaving the cap
on, unless you assign
the bailing task to a
using a utility knife.
Retain the cap; it will
come in handy, as the
can make the jug a
hands-free tool.
shipmate with a sense of
humor. So, the livewell
or fish-box pump goes
accompanying text
explains. Add a lanyard
to make it easy to hang
FILTER CHANGER
Whether it’s the
side-mounted oil filter
kaput? Break out the
jug and bail out the box.
Have a dinghy or kayak?
up or secure in the boat
or dinghy. Round bleach
and soap jugs make
on my engine or the
fuel filter located at
arm’s length through an
Tie the jug to a thwart
or frame to eliminate
paddle drips and spray.
the best all-around
multitool, but a narrow
oil or antifreeze jug can
8-inch-diameter deck be useful if you have a
plate, I use the jug to en- PUMP WINTERIZER need to scoop or bail
sure filter changes don’t Close the seacock, if in a narrow area. Feel
include spills. After applicable, and remove free to add your boat’s
loosening the filter with a pump’s intake hose. name, apply stickers or
the wrench, I hold the With the cap on the jug, otherwise personalize it.
jug under the filter and fill it three-quarters Have fun, and consider
then spin it off by hand, full with nontoxic
antifreeze. Insert the
other ways you can
repurpose plastic or
catching the element,
and any fuel or oil, for intake hose and turn minimize its use aboard.
proper disposal. on the pump so your —Kevin Falvey
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 recom-
mended following use.
FUNNEL Most boaters
know the trick of
pouring over the handle
to make pouring fluids
PHOTOS: GARRETT CORTESE
a neater job. Even so, a
funnel makes filling oil,
adding fuel from a can,
or topping off coolant
 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

powered by

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

PORTABLE
ONBOARD
SAT TV
Easy and affordable onboard satellite
HDTV—anywhere.

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
“We’re very passionate go. Adding HD sports Playmaker for watching
systems from companies such about the Playmaker programming such as TV while docked. The
as Intellian starting at around program,” says Amir the NFL Network or antenna comes with
Ahmed, senior vice pres- NFL Red Zone ramps up 25 feet of coaxial cable
$2,200, you might not want to ident of sales at Dish. the cost. One of the most to route back inside
spend the money either. “The Playmaker is both popular is the American the boat and connect
affordable and easy to set Top 120 Plus for $84.99 to the receiver. The
tall, the Playmaker is up in minutes.” per month. Wally includes a 6-foot

B
based on the Carry- The Dish “Outdoors” There are two caveats: HDMI cable to connect
Out antenna from HD programming One is the Playmaker with a TV, as well as a
Winegard, which has packages start at $39.99 needs a clear view of power cord to plug into
gained popularity in the per month for 50 the southern sky with your 120-volt AC shore
RV market. Dish bun- popular channels, with no obstructions, such power, generator or
dles an easy-to-connect no long-term contract as the flying bridge of inverter.
Wally receiver (one- required. If you already the boat in the slip next After hooking up your
But there’s another and two-TV models are have Dish, it’s a $7 to you, nearby trees, new system, there will be
option. Thanks to a available) and the cables per month additional buildings and the like. a quick setup procedure
new portable satellite you need to quickly programming charge, Secondly, and more that includes select-
system, you can enjoy hook up everything to and it too is pay as you problematic for boats, ing the state you are
sports, movies and other an onboard flat-screen the dome is designed currently in and pressing
programming in high TV set. The hardware UNDER to work on a stationary “Scan” to start scanning
definition as you relax package starts at $348. THE DOME surface. That means the for satellites. Then the
or overnight aboard The Playmaker movement of boats and programming loads.
dish automati-
your boat, whether in a floating docks might After that, you can start
cally locks in on
marina or pulled up on available satel- result in signal loss. watching TV.
a beach, while paying lites for the best Dish recommends us- I assembled the
far less for the satellite HDTV reception. ing a fixed dock, seawall, Playmaker dome and
equipment. or the shoreline where Wally receiver in about
PHOTOS: COURTESY DISH NETWORK

Dish Network has you’ve beached your five minutes, and while
designed an afford- boat for a party. A clever the initial setup took
able system utilizing DIY boater might be about 20 minutes, each
a 7½-pound satellite able to build a shelf that subsequent connection
dome antenna it calls attaches to a piling to took only a few minutes.
Playmaker. Measuring temporarily secure the —Jim Hendricks
roughly 16 inches in
diameter and 13 inches
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
 BL
BOATINGLAB
By Randy Vance
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.
WATERPROOF MEMBRANES
Gore-Tex is the most notable water-
proof membrane thanks to its lifetime
warranty, which is based on rigid man-
agement of how clothing-makers use
its membrane in a garment. Gore-Tex
strictly monitors assembly methods for
sealed seams, fabric flexibility and du-
rability, and the shell’s water repellency.
There might be a dozen or more mem-
brane fabrics with less expensive test-
ing, but if properly used, Gore-Tex will
return good value for the dollars spent.
DURABLE WATER RESISTANCE
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.
MULTIPLE LAMINATE FABRICS
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.
CUFF PROTECTION
Cuffs in some of the more hardcore
rain gear feature stretchable wrist
gaskets to prevent water from enter-
ing. 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
7 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
Zip Tip
Some zippers
sport a storm
flap, but YKK
AquaGuard Vision
zippers work well.
of zippers, and some of the jackets
we tested used a variation of it with a
water-resistant barrier over the zip-
per’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
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.
DWR TEST
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 shak-
ing it off. All fabrics passed this test.
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 water-
blocking zippers that were cheaper
and deflected sprayed water. When
sprayed directly with a hose, they
indeed prevented water entry.
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 un-
taped, 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.
PHOTOS: GARRETT CORTESE
SEALED ZIPPER SPRAY TEST: No leakage.
MEMBRANE TEST: No leakage.
DWR TEST: Water beaded and rolled off.
 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 !

NEW
NC 695 SPORT NC 795 SPORT 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, it’s time to gear
up and plan your next adventure.

POWERED BY

jeanneau.com

Rugged
Both an elastic
cuff and Velcro
fastener provide
watertight cuffs.
BASS PRO SHOPS
GORE-TEX 100 MPH
$219.99 for jacket, $189.99 for bibs; basspro.com
SIZES: XL to XXXL; LT,XLT,2XLT CUFFS: Neoprene and Velcro
DWR: Gore-certified DWR closures
HOOD: Removable ZIPPERS: YKK water-blocking
LINER: Removable fleece, SEAMS: All taped and welded
optional WARRANTY: Lifetime
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
FIND MORE BOATINGLAB TESTS AT BOATINGMAG.COM.
Backfield
The exterior
shoulder mem-
branes are lined
inside for com-
fort and style.
COLUMBIA
PFG TERMINAL OUTDRY HYBRID
$150; columbia.com
SIZES: Small to XXL ZIPPERS: YKK water-blocking;
DWR: Yes main zipper has only storm flaps
HOOD: Fixed SEAMS: All taped and welded
LINER: None WARRANTY: Lifetime Limited
CUFFS: Neoprene gaskets and
Velcro adjustments
Columbia calls the system Outdry, which describes the alternating
fabric alignment. The membrane is on the outside of the sleeves, shoul-
ders 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.
PHOTOS: GARRETT CORTESE
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.
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
Light and weak spot.
Watertight
Not a drop of wa-
ter came through
the zippers in
both zipper tests.

CABELA’S
RAINY RIVER PARKA WITH GORE-TEX
$130 to $140; cabelas.com
SIZES: Medium to 4XL; XLT to CUFFS: Elastic with Velcro
3XLT fasteners
DWR: Gore-Tex-certified ZIPPERS: YKK water-blocking;
DWR coating main zipper is unsealed but has
HOOD: Fixed storm flaps
LINER: None 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 zip-
pers 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 fab-
rics 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 back-
pack, 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.
SEALED ZIPPER SPRAY TEST: No leakage.
L.L.BEAN
TRAIL MODEL RAIN JACKET
$100; llbean.com
SIZES: Small to XXL ZIPPERS: Gasketed breast, and
DWR: Yes open coil zippers for main and
hand-warmer pocket zippers
HOOD: Fixed
SEAMS: All taped and welded
LINER: None
WARRANTY: 100% Satisfaction
CUFFS: Velcro closures, no
Guarantee
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 breath-
able 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 cell-
phone-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 protec-
tion 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
not wet; the other pocket and main zippers leaked.
PHOTOS: GARRETT CORTESE

MEMBRANE TEST: No leakage. The fabric bulged under the SEALED ZIPPER SPRAY TEST: No leakage.
pressure and stretched, without leaking. MEMBRANE TEST: No leakage.
DWR TEST: Water beaded and rolled off. DWR TEST: Water beaded and rolled off.

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
 FIND MORE BOATINGLAB TESTS AT BOATINGMAG.COM. BOAT DOCTOR /// B O AT I N G L A B

Light Speed
Reflective fabric
adds an element
of safety to
Inner Pockets this watertight
Its value is en-
jacket.
hanced by inner
pockets to keep
phones or other
gear dry.

FROGG TOGGS HUK

PILOT II RAIN JACKET
$174.99; froggtoggs.com
SIZES: Small to XXXL POCKETS: Dual breast pockets,
DWR: Teflon dual hand-warmer pockets
HOOD: Removable CUFFS: Neoprene gaskets and
Velcro closures
LINER: Removable quilted puff
jacket, optional ZIPPERS: Water-blocking
SEAMS: All taped and welded
WARRANTY: Lifetime
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 water-
resistant full-leg zippers, and adjustable elastic suspenders that
snap on or off with nylon buckles.
WE SAY: The supple jacket flexes with your body, moving, docking,
line handling and fishing easier all day. The coat tail is long for opti-
mum 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.
SEALED ZIPPER TEST: In our standing water test, the zippers
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. How-
PHOTOS: GARRETT CORTESE
LEVIATHAN JACKET
$380; hukgear.com
SIZES: Small to XXXL CUFFS: Neoprene gaskets and
DWR: Yes Velcro closures
ZIPPERS: YKK water-blocking
HOOD: Fixed
SEAMS: All taped and welded
LINER: Removable fleece,
optional WARRANTY: Lifetime
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.
WE SAY: The zipper does not appear to be water-resistant, but
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.
SEALED ZIPPER TEST: Our test garment’s zippers leaked with
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

ever, we were dead wrong about this worthwhile design. spray from a hose impressed us.
MEMBRANE TEST: No leakage. MEMBRANE TEST: No leakage.
DWR TEST: Water beaded and rolled off. DWR TEST: Water beaded and rolled off.

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
 #3167

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

Sailfish Boats sets a standard with its new 360 CC, a wide-beam 36-footer. It’s elegant and

S
sophisticated, well-planned and well-executed. With the 360 CC, Sailfish blends a hardcore
fishing machine with a comfortable family cruiser.
PHOTOS: SAILFISH BOATS

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

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.
PHOTOS: SAILFISH BOATS
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
SCA N ME
To see our photo gallery of the
Sailfish 360 CC, scan this tag or
visit boatingmag.com/3167.
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. Un-
derwater 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
 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
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 in-
High Points
X Impressive standard equipment list.
X Boat is roomy, with elegant styling, fit
and finish.
X Auto-engine flush system inlcuded.

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 accel-
eration or frightening top speed, but these
verted 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
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.

engines delivered ample performance.
The 360 proved stable and dry. It runs
flat, so you won’t need to use tabs ex-
cept for lateral trim. If anything, it would
be nice if the bow rode a bit higher in a
Your choice of optional
joystick controls is a
worthwhile investment;
climbing out of the water. However, such
doors and ladders are no substitute for a · LOA: 36'0" · BEAM: 11'2" · DRAFT (HULL): 2'4"
· DISPLACEMENT (APPROX.): 12,700 lb.
real boarding ladder that you can deploy · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 22 to 24 degrees · BRIDGE
while in the water. The 360 CC transom has CLEARANCE: 9'10" · MAX CABIN HEADROOM: 6'5"
· FUEL CAPACITY: 400 gal. · MAX HORSEPOWER:
one of those as well. Space has even been 1,050 · AVAILABLE POWER: Twin or triple Yamaha
outboards to 1,050 hp total
engineered into the 360 to fit a Seakeeper
stabilizer, should you choose that option.
In addition to comfortable seating for
Price: $430,995
(base with test power)
three at the helm (with impact cushioning
on an adjustable-height platform), mez-
zanine seating faces aft for another three,
AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :

so equipped, anyone can O U T B OA R D

capably maneuver this
boat into or out of the slip
without anxiety.
following sea. However, prudent sea-
manship 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
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 HOW WE TESTED
baitwells of 42 and 32 gallons with a dedi- ENGINE: TRIPLE 300 HP YAMAHA F300 OUTBOARD
cated sea-chest pump system, built-in tackle MOTORS DRIVE/PROP: OUTBOARD/15" X 20" GEAR
RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 160 GAL. WATER ON
storage, outriggers, insulated coffin box and
BOARD: 35 GAL. CREW WEIGHT: 499 LB.
choice of several fish boxes, the Sailfish 360
CC leaves little doubt as to its angling chops.
—Dean Travis Clarke S A I L F I S H B O AT S
Cairo, Georgia; 229-377-2125; sailfishboats.com

C
good riding hull, and unique too. SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
naut. stat. n. mi. s. mi. sound
Sailfish boats ride a hull design the rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
1000 5.69 6.55 3.60 1.58 1.82 569 655 NA 84
builder calls a variable degree stepped hull,
1500 7.99 9.20 6.30 1.27 1.46 457 526 NA 89
or VDS. Rather than a transverse step—or 2000 9.95 11.45 11.10 0.90 1.03 323 371 NA 95
steps across the beam—with chine vents, 2500 14.25 16.40 16.80 0.85 0.98 305 351 NA 95
PHOTO: SAILFISH BOATS

3000 21.33 24.55 20.90 1.02 1.17 367 423 NA 95

as is more common, Sailfish’s VDS hull 3500 29.46 33.90 28.60 1.03 1.19 371 427 NA 85
features longitudinal steps. 4000 33.46 38.50 37.30 0.90 1.03 323 372 NA 90
CERTIFIED 4500 37.63 43.30 51.50 0.73 0.84 263 303 NA 92
From the centerline along the keel to 5000 42.28 48.65 66.50 0.64 0.73 229 263 NA 88
about one-third of the hull bottom’s width TEST 5400 46.36 53.35 78.90 0.59 0.68 212 243 NA 92

is a panel with a deep deadrise. The middle RESULTS MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED

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
RETHINK POWER.
2.3L | 310 HP | 350 lb-ft Torque
S C AN ME
To see our video
review of the
Nor-Tech 340
Sport, scan
this tag or visit
boatingmag
.com/3168.

Hull blueprinting, the process of meticulously finishing a hull’s bottom so that mold variances

H
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 rigid-
PHOTO: TOM KING

ity, 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

C NOR-TECH
CERTIFIED
TEST
and then anxiously firewalled the throttles. The boat hurtled forward
with nary a twitch, the numbers on my GPS advancing in rapid suc-
cession until I was flirting with 80 mph. Throttling down into the 50s,
I barreled into a hard-over turn and experienced sure-footed stabil-
PHOTOS: TOM KING
ity, 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
#3168
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 Nor-
Tech’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
 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 forward-
facing 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 divid-
ers provide the locked-in feel you’ll want
at speed. Storage awaits on the back side,
behind the padded wall that doubles as that
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
generous depth offers a notable sense of secu-
rity 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 performance-
oriented 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 cus-
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

by the customer. tomization, it’s difficult to find a direct com-

Frigid Rigid’s backrest. Opt for a tackle cen-
ter should you desire a fishier focus. In fact,
add a transom livewell, convert the pair of in-
sole 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 hard-
ware is likewise built right into the hardtop
for a seamless finished appearance.
Price: $453,000
petitor, but Fountain certainly has a similar (base with triple Mercury
Racing 350 R outboards)
taste for speed. Like the 340 Sport, the Foun-
tain 34 CC features a double-step hull, and
similar layout and helm. With triple Mercury AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :
Verado 350s, it starts at $409,400. O U T B OA R D
Clearly, performance of this level has a
price. But in the case of the 340 Sport, I’d ar-
gue you get what you pay for. The proof is ob-
viously found in the amenities and attention HOW WE TESTED
to detail topside, but don’t overlook the time ENGINES: Triple Mercury Racing 350 R PROPS:
that’s gone into the hull. Because, as my test Mercury Rev 4 14.625" x 25" 4-blade stainless steel
GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 69 gal. WATER ON
ride showed, that’s where the magic happens.
BOARD: 0 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 600 lb.
—Jeff Hemmel
N O R -T E C H B O AT S
Fort Myers, Florida; 239-567-5030; nor-techboats.com
SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION

C
Nor-Tech’s focus on passenger comfort naut. stat. n. mi. s. mi. sound
continues forward of the console. Two ad- rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
1000 5.82 6.70 4.20 1.39 1.60 343 395 1 68
ditional crewmembers can relax in what 1500 8.08 9.30 8.00 1.01 1.16 250 288 3 70
can best be described as a 4-foot-wide sun 2000 12.34 14.20 14.80 0.83 0.96 206 237 5 77
2500 20.94 24.10 16.00 1.31 1.51 324 373 2 83
pad with full-size, forward-facing back- 3000 27.98 32.20 19.40 1.44 1.66 357 411 2 84
rests. Stretch out and flip down the center 3500 36.93 42.50 30.10 1.23 1.41 304 349 2 85
4000 41.10 47.30 36.40 1.13 1.30 279 322 1 89
armrest, and you’ve possibly got the most 4500 47.53 54.70 54.00 0.88 1.01 218 251 0 95
PHOTO: TOM KING

comfortable—and cozy—seats aboard. CERTIFIED 5000 53.88 62.00 59.00 0.91 1.05 226 260 0 97
5500 57.53 66.20 83.40 0.69 0.79 171 196 0 94
Stainless-steel grab rails stretch nearly the TEST 6000 63.70 73.30 92.30 0.69 0.79 171 197 0 95
full length for peace of mind. Opposite, more RESULTS 6400 68.74 47.70 97.30 0.71 0.49 175 121 0 98
seating rings the squared-off bow cockpit. Its MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED

8 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
 INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW

SERIES
38

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

Crossover boats are all the rage. Regulator Marine’s answer is in its new 26XO. Are there

C
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
PHOTO: BILL DOSTER

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, care-
fully shaped running surface, and weight results in predictable performance and inspires confi-
dence. 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

C REGULATOR
CERTIFIED
TEST
PHOTOS: COURTESY REGULATOR MARINE
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 over-
board, 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
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
 tow bar. Top speed is in the mid-40s.
Meanwhile, the hull’s 14-inch draft, mod-
erate deadrise, transom hull pocket, and
standard SeaStar Solutions hydraulic jack
plate with a 6-inch setback make shallow-
water 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 con-
sole houses a vented, lighted compartment
with 60 inches of headroom and a standard
portable toilet, but it can be fitted with a
Uniquely, Regulator’s
single-piece stringer
but a pair of 12-inch Garmin 7612 XSV dis-
plays ($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 impor-
tant, our test boat carried an optional
36-volt Minn Kota Riptide Ulterra trolling
High Points
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

system is bonded to the motor with i-Pilot, a 36-amp charger, and
three deep-cycle batteries neatly stowed in
hull in the mold, resulting a dedicated compartment under the fore-
in tremendous structural deck. The three seats behind the livewell/
tackle center fold down to form a huge
integrity and a rock-solid stern casting deck.
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

feel in waves. This boat’s rigging proved immaculate,

permanent model, holding tank and elec-
tric pump-out. Snap in the cushions for the
bow’s port-and-starboard storage com-
partments, and tilt up their forward-facing
HEADROOM: 5'4" · MAX HORSEPOWER: 300
· AVAILABLE POWER: Single Yamaha F300
and I saw why on the assembly line, watch-
ing skilled technicians take care in their Price: $134,995
(as tested)
work. The 26XO should prove easy to care
for. And by careful design and execution, it
handles multiple missions well. It may be AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :

seatbacks to create a pair of lounges. The
forward console seats two in comfort, with
a cooler beneath, as does the helm’s lean-
ing post. A 32-gallon livewell is built into
the tackle center behind the helm seats,
with tackle storage beneath. Forward of
Regulator’s most versatile model. Shop- O U T B OA R D
pers 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 HOW WE TESTED
350 hp Mercury Verado), a well-proven ENGINE: 300 hp Yamaha F300 DRIVE/PROP:

hybrid of similar layout. Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series II 15.5" x 17"

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 Bluetooth-
3-blade stainless steel GEAR RATIO: 1.86:1 FUEL
Don’t take my word for it. Schedule a LOAD: 40 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 600 lb.
sea trial of all three and see for yourself.
—John Page Williams R E G U L AT O R M A R I N E
Edenton, North Carolina; 252-482-3837;
regulatormarine.com
SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION

C
capable, four-speaker marine stereo is naut. stat. n. mi. s. mi. sound
standard, with a Polk Ultramarine package rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
1000 4.4 5.1 1.3 3.4 3.9 328.3 377.8 0 64
optional. 1500 6.0 6.9 2.1 2.9 3.3 275.0 316.4 1 65
OK, it’s comfortable, but after all, 2000 7.1 8.2 3.7 1.9 2.2 185.5 213.4 3 70
2500 7.8 9.0 5.6 1.4 1.6 134.5 154.8 4 73
Regulators are fishboats at their cores. For 3000 8.5 9.8 8.0 1.1 1.2 102.5 118.0 6 76
bluewater duties, opt for Taco Grand Slam 3500 13.6 15.6 10.0 1.4 1.6 130.5 150.2 4 80
4000 23.8 27.4 12.5 1.9 2.2 183.4 211.1 4 82
390 outriggers ($3,495) and T-top rocket
PHOTO: BILL DOSTER

4500 27.5 31.6 15.1 1.8 2.1 175.1 201.5 4 84

launcher ($1,895). A 16-inch Garmin GPS- CERTIFIED 5000 33.0 38.0 21.1 1.6 1.8 150.7 173.4 3 86
5500 36.9 42.5 26.2 1.4 1.6 135.7 156.2 3 89
Map 8616 chart plotter/sounder comes TEST 5700 38.3 44.1 26.4 1.5 1.7 139.8 160.9 3 92
standard, with a VHF and Airmar CHIRP RESULTS MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
transducer mounted to the through-hull,

9 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
 uncomfortable
ιQӌNιPSIWιUEιO >XKQNXKPIWXKEXKO@
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
bow riders.
X We’d like to see more fuel capacity in a
boat rated for 300 hp.

Leader 7.5 CC Toughest Competitor

X The Release 24 R ($85,810 powered
like our test boat) offers loads of seat-
ing and a generous head, but no mini
“Convertibility” is a word privacy and lots of stor- entire bow is a sun pad. galley or berth in the console.

that pops up often when Nick
Harvey, president of Jean-
neau 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,
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
age 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 re-
quires a manual. It can be
wide-open, it has fold-down
seats on three sides and
a central table, and it can
MORE
ONLINE
become a sun pad. The skip-
per and a companion get
two comfy pedestal chairs
behind a tidy dash with a 12-
inch Garmin display, Lenco
trim tabs and stylish wrap-
around windscreen. Our test
boat boasted the optional
We tested with the
Yamaha 300 outboard and, · LOA: 24'4" · BEAM: 8'4" · DRAFT (MAX): 1'10"
· DISPLACEMENT (APPROX.): 3,064 lb. · TRANSOM
while a 250 is available, go for DEADRISE: 20 degrees · BRIDGE CLEARANCE:
the 300. It has yank power for 5'8" (with hardtop) · FUEL CAPACITY: 75 gal. · MAX
HORSEPOWER: 300 · AVAILABLE POWER: 250 to 300
wakeboarding or skiing. We
topped out at 50-plus mph,
Price: $81,800
and you’ll want to warn your
crew before you put the ham-
mer down—it’s hang-on time!
AVA I L A B L E P O W E R :
Jeanneau understands
service access; the battery O U T B OA R D
box is right there in a transom
locker, the gas tank is under
a cockpit hatch, and the neat, HOW WE TESTED
color-coded wiring is easy to ENGINE: 300 hp Yamaha F300 DRIVE/PROP: Yamaha
trace for troubleshooting. 17" x 15.5" Saltwater Series II 3-blade stainless steel
This delightful French im- GEAR RATIO: 1.75:1 FUEL LOAD: 75 gal. CREW
WEIGHT: 400 lb.
port is as welcome as a choco-
late croissant. —Chris Caswell JEANNEAU AMERICA
Annapolis, Maryland; 410-280-9400;
jeanneauamerica.com
SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
naut. stat. n. mi. s. mi. sound
rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level

C
1000 4.8 5.5 1.3 3.7 4.2 248.2 285.6 0 71
coaming, and so forth. But (but no-brainer) hardtop 1500 6.3 7.2 3.3 1.9 2.2 128.0 147.3 1 73
PHOTO: COURTESY JEANNEAU AMERICA

Jeanneau positions the with power-coated frame 2000 7.5 8.6 3.6 2.1 2.4 140.1 161.3 2 76
2500 9.9 11.4 5.4 1.8 2.1 123.8 142.5 2 78
Leader 7.5 CC as a “cruising and canvas sunshade. 3000 17.4 20.0 6.5 2.7 3.1 180.5 207.7 3 80
center-console” for family Forward, get the manual 3500 23.5 27.1 8.4 2.8 3.2 189.2 217.8 2 80
4000 28.2 32.4 11.9 2.4 2.7 159.7 183.8 1 82
fun, and here’s where it again. We started with a ta-
4500 31.5 36.2 15.3 2.1 2.4 138.8 159.7 2 82
shines the brightest. ble with seating that wraps 5000 36.2 41.7 18.7 1.9 2.2 130.8 150.5 1 84
First of all, the entire around on four sides—per- CERTIFIED
5500 40.4 46.5 22.7 1.8 2.0 120.2 138.3 1 89
5900 44.1 50.7 26.6 1.7 1.9 111.8 128.7 1 89
center console is a private fect for afternoons at the
TEST
head (with either a built- sandbar. Pull out a support MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
RESULTS
in or portable toilet), since framework and voila—the

9 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
PASSION. PRECISION. PERFORMANCE
 T
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 X Outboards may be visible, but novice

captains would still benefit from a
standard trim position gauge.

SVX 211 OB
X Pull straps would make it easier to
open the hinged seat cushions that
conceal stowage within.

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 stan-
dards and allowing buy-
ers to option to suit their
lifestyle. Still, we didn’t
To watch our video review of the
Starcraft SVX 211 OB, visit
boatingmag.com/3171.
notice much scrimping.
The fiberglass helm sports a
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 addi-
tional rear-facing speakers.
MORE
ONLINE
The SVX’s layout proves
practical. Seating essentially
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
Toughest Competitor
X NauticStar’s 203 SC (promotional
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

faux-leather-wrapped steer- rings the perimeter, starting while running at 25 mph. FUEL LOAD: 34 gal. CREW WEIGHT: 340 lb.

ing wheel, Bluetooth-ready with parallel couches in the —Jeff Hemmel S TA R C R A F T M A R I N E

New Paris, Indiana; 574-831-2950;
Jensen stereo (coupled to bow and culminating in an starcraftmarine.com
four speakers), and bucket L-shaped bench that spans
helm seat with flip-up bol- the port side and across the SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
naut. stat. n. mi. s. mi. sound
ster. Telescoping ladders transom. Combined with rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level

C
bow and stern ease water the pivoting helm seat, that 1000 4.00 4.60 0.70 5.71 6.57 231 266 0 61
1500 5.56 6.40 1.20 4.63 5.33 188 216 1 66
access whether nosed into makes 14 seats. Lone in- 2000 6.78 7.80 2.00 3.39 3.90 137 158 3 67
the beach or anchored out. terruptions include a step 2500 8.52 9.80 3.00 2.84 3.27 115 132 5 69
3000 10.17 11.70 4.10 2.48 2.85 100 116 7 76
Stainless-steel grab rails, onto the forward platform,
3500 21.72 25.00 6.00 3.62 4.17 147 169 4 79
a Bimini top, and comfy starboard-side transom 4000 27.72 31.90 7.90 3.51 4.04 142 164 3 83
PHOTO: BILL DOSTER

Marine Mat flooring on both walk-through, and a simple 4500 29.63 34.10 8.20 3.61 4.16 146 168 3 83
5000 33.89 39.00 12.10 2.80 3.22 113 131 3 84
the bow and stern platforms portside galley with sink 5500 37.89 43.60 16.20 2.34 2.69 95 109 3 87
were likewise included. and cup holders. Option up CERTIFIED 6000 39.10 45.00 17.00 2.30 2.65 93 107 3 89
6300 40.49 46.60 18.00 2.25 2.59 91 105 3 89
Options? A fishing pack- for the freshwater tank and TEST
age adds a livewell and two pump faucet system. RESULTS MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED

9 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
 You own a boat because you love spending time on the water. Choose the outboard that allows you to make the most of it.
Honda’s legendary reliability, durability, ease-of-maintenance, and powerful performance keep you going strong.

GET UP TO 700 OFF SELECT OUTBOARDS!

$ *

JANUARY 2, 2020-MARCH 31, 2020, ONLY AT PARTICIPATING DEALERS

*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 Low Points

X We’d add a windshield wiper.

Wakesetter 20 VTX X Our test boat’s ski tower rattled

somewhat at high speed.

Can one boat do it all?
Malibu’s Wakesetter 20
VTX excels for skiing, wake-
boarding and wakesurfing.
Our test boat was pow-
ered by a 360 hp Malibu
Monsoon M5Di engine. De-
veloping 400 foot-pounds
of torque at 3,600 rpm, this
engine delivered awesome
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
helps generate respectable
wakeboard and wakesurf
waves, yet still allows slalom
skiing. We noted a soft, read-
ily crossable wake at slalom
speeds and little spray
during our test. Option up
for the short wing wind-
shield, center-mounted ski
pylon and TXi Performance
MORE
ONLINE
Tower, the mounting geom-
etry of which allows a sla-
lom tow line to swing across
is no 25-footer, but it gener-
ates really respectable wakes
and waves.
How to do it? The 12-inch
MaliView touchscreen uses
graphics, and it affords finger-
tap 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 pref-
erences, 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
Toughest Competitor
X Shopping? Look at the Nautique Super
Air Nautique GS 20 (starting at $110,040
with a 355 hp PCM ZZ5 5.3L DI).
· 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.

facility where Malibu builds the cockpit. VTX. —Kevin Falvey M A L I B U B O AT S

these engines and came Then pro rider Massi- Loudon, Tennessee; 865-458-5478; malibuboats.com

away impressed with the miliano Piffaretti broke

attention to detail in build out his board. We deployed
SPEED EFFICIENCY OPERATION
that enables them to earn the Malibu Power Wedge naut. stat. n. mi. s. mi. sound

C
the highest efficiency rating III—a hydrofoil delivering rpm knots mph gph mpg mpg range range angle level
1000 4.61 5.30 1.08 4.26 4.91 146 168 0 60
there is, the CARB five-star response equal to 1,500 1500 6.08 7.00 2.09 2.91 3.35 100 115 1 63
rating. Key service points pounds of ballast—and the
PHOTO: COURTESY MALIBU BOATS

2000 7.13 8.20 3.60 1.98 2.28 68 78 3 66

2500 8.78 10.10 6.00 1.46 1.68 50 58 5 71
are easy to access and, as wake grew. Then we filled 3000 18.38 21.15 7.00 2.63 3.02 90 103 3 74
our chart shows, the M5Di the ballast tanks and adjust- 3500 22.94 26.40 8.60 2.67 3.07 91 105 3 79
4000 26.07 30.00 10.70 2.44 2.80 83 96 2 83
proved quiet underway. ed Malibu’s Surf Gate (ver-
4500 29.68 34.15 13.30 2.23 2.57 76 88 2 85
The feature that best be- tically mounted trim tabs 5000 32.85 37.80 16.90 1.94 2.24 66 76 1 90
stows three-sport cred upon that help shape waves) to CERTIFIED 5603 35.58 40.95 23.20 1.53 1.77 52 60 1 96

the 20 VTX is the Diamond Massi’s liking, and things got TEST
MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
Hull. Specially shaped, it cool fast. Hey, the 20 VTX RESULTS

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
 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
 T
TESTS
#3173
YAMAHA
WaveRunner EXR
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.
To see our online photo gallery
of the Yamaha WaveRunner EXR,
go to boatingmag.com/3173.
The result is the EXR—what
company reps enthusiasti-
cally dub a “crotch rocket.”
Adding power and drop-
ping 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 con-
trol unit (ECU), which ups
the 1,049  cc three-cylinder
TR-1 engine’s horsepower
by roughly 10 percent. The
9 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
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 chang-
es include a top-loading
intake grate to better feed
the pump and provide in-
creased traction in turns, a
40 mm pump extension to
MORE
ONLINE
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 not-
ed 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 straight-
line speed came when I
punched it, shifted my
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 perfor-
mance-minded, the EXR does
feature a few notable extras,
such as RiDE, Yamaha’s dual
control system that gives for-
ward and reverse thrust sep-
arate throttles on opposite
sides of the handlebar. The in-
tuitive system eases docking
and tight-quarters maneu-
vering at low speed by redi-
recting 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
NUMBER
OF RIDERS
3 54
CERTIFIED
TEST
RESULTS
High Points
X All EX models boast the best capacities
in the Rec Lite category, with 13.2 gal-
lons 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
the craft and have trouble seeing the
information display.
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.
· 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
PHOTO: COURTESY YAMAHA MOTOR CORP. USA
TOP SPEED S T O WA G E A P P L I C AT I O N :
(MPH) CA PAC I T Y R E C R E AT I O N A L /
(GAL.) TOURING
7.7
 SOUND
BUSINESS
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. Manag-
ing that sound is a science that’s
important to both regulators
and marketers; it’s so impor-
tant that Mercury Marine re-
cently 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 ex-
pensive facility of its kind in the
marine industry.
“Delivering superior NVH
characteristics provides an en-
hanced user experience for our
customers and ultimately gives
us a competitive advantage in
the market,” says Andrew Wai-
sanen, manager of the NVH &
Structures Group at Mercury
Marine. “Engineering low vibra-
tion levels into the product also
leads to increased durability.”
NVH is the study of
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
sensations we hear and feel, par-
ticularly 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 test-
ing engines up to 1,000 horse-
power. Because these are ma-
rine 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 puz-
zled by a high-pitched whistle.
The source was pinpointed in
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 mea-
suring vibration characteristics
and mass/inertia properties of
engines and components.
Siting the building was a chal-
lenge on property directly adja-
cent to a six-lane highway and
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,
not far from a regional airport.
Engineers went so far as to con-
duct 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
that source was the crankshaft
PHOTOS: COURTESY MERCURY MARINE
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.
 BOAT DOCTOR ///

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 instru-
mentation and data-acquisition
equipment in each chamber is
about $150,000, according to
Waisanen. That includes a bin-
aural microphone system that

PHOTO: COURTESY MERCURY MARINE

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 in-
stinctively identify the location
a sound is coming from, such as
in front of or behind the listener.
The binaural microphone sys-
tem 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 high-
performance Pro XS outboard
sounds much different than a
Verado. And neither sounds like
it’s about to throw a rod.
 SOLACE
345

PHOTO: FOREST JOHNSON

1 0 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

he mantra Boating’s editorial staff lives by with respect
T
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 bet-
ter. 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—be-
tween 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.
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 5
SCA N ME
Learn more about the Solace 345 and past
Boat of the Year winners. Scan this tag or
visit boatingmag.com/boatoftheyear.
This year, though, after testing some 150 differ-
ent 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 arrange-
ment, 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
1 0 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
TOTAL-SALVAGE COVERAGE

L 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 or oil leaks as a result. However it happens,
more salvage costs out of pocket. environmental damage assessments
levied for fuel spills can range to almost
FUEL-SPILL COVERAGE $1 million, and the cost of cleanup may
F 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,
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.
or maybe the boat sinks in the slip, and fuel 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 only applies to total losses, so ask about that. Other examples of
cover the sinking, will exclude coverage if it happens as a result consequential-damage situations include dismasting, collision,
of consequential damage such as a failed bellows or seacock. stranding, fire and explosion.

1 0 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
 KEEPING
YOUR HEALTH
AFLOAT
Watersports and offshore-
fishing 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
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.

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
HURRICANE HAUL-OUT COVERAGE in the article. In a nutshell, this coverage
O 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
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
areas, or new boaters, we’re including it 50 percent of the cost of labor up to $1,000

T 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
FUEL-SPILL COVERAGE SHOULD BE
the uninitiated, this provides additional CONSIDERED EVEN IF SEEKING A BASIC
coverage for bodily injuries aboard your
boat caused by a collision with a hit-
LIABILITY POLICY, SO ASK ABOUT IT,
and-run boater, where the other boater
either takes off without being caught or is
BUT IT CAN BE BETTER TO HAVE
operating without insurance, as the name SEPARATE COVERAGE BECAUSE IT WILL
implies. Note that many boats and boaters
are uninsured because boat insurance is LIKELY COVER MORE.
not required in most places.

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 WHAT A PARTIAL LOSS DEPRECIATION
not penalize the policyholder. Before
purchasing this coverage, we recommend
WAIVER DOES, IF YOU ADD IT ON, IS
asking boat haulers for an estimate of the
cost of a hurricane haul-out as described
ESSENTIALLY STOP THE CLOCK AND
above. That way, you will be in a better CONTINUE TO PAY “NEW FOR OLD”
position to know whether you want it.
CLAIM RATES ON THESE ITEMS.
BOAT TRAILER COVERAGE

I 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
boaters. Also, be sure to find out if there are
any geographical limits to the coverage.

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
PARTIAL LOSS
DEPRECIATION WAIVER
I 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

CRUISING-
EXTENSION COVERAGE
Maybe you are a California boater who likes to
cruise into Mexican waters. Or perhaps you are GO AHEAD,
from Florida and like to visit the Bahamas. Your CROSS
boat insurance probably does not cover you in THAT LINE
these areas unless you procure cruising-extension
coverage. Typically, you purchase this coverage by e encourage you to cruise
calling your insurer prior to each trip. However, your boat over as many far
some companies offer upfront approval for certain horizons as possible. Just be
aware that your insurance
cruising destinations, which can eliminate the need
may not go along for
to call and order the coverage every time you cruise.
the ride.
Also note that coverage might not be available for
cruising to some countries, such as Cuba, Haiti
and Venezuela.

1 1 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
add it on, is essentially stop the clock and
continue to pay “new for old” claim rates DON’T BE
on these items. A TOTAL
LOSER
DINGHY/MARINE Competitive fishing can cost a
ELECTRONICS ENDORSEMENT lot of money in entry fees, and

I 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
requires liability insurance
and the necessary tackle. An
angling endorsement is for
such anglers.

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.

WATERSPORTS COVERAGE

L 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 entry-
fee reimbursement for competitive ANGLER COVERAGE
wakeboarders or water skiers. If you own lots of expensive fishing gear and/or you fish competitively in tournaments,
If you can afford to own a boat, you give an angling endorsement a look. It is often offered as a bundle of fishing-gear coverage,
probably know all too well that insurance tournament entry-fee reimbursement and tournament liability coverage. For the gear,
companies are not in business to pay higher limits are placed than on policies without the angling endorsement. Also, should
claims—they make money collecting a claim—such as for an on-the-road accident or a stolen boat—cause you to have to with-
premiums. That said, make sure your draw from a tournament, this coverage will reimburse your entry fee. Ask if your insurer
boat-insurance needs meet your financial caps this amount, as some insurers may do so. As a side note, it’s important to understand
requirements as well as your tolerance for that many fishing tournaments will require you to carry $500,000 in liability coverage as
risk. Questioning the coverage proposed an entered angler.
to you is smart shopping. Hopefully, this
article helps you to do just that.

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 ves-
sel 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 boat-
ers 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 full-
salvage coverage. Not concerned with hull
value coverage? Select liability only.

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 1 1

FLYING BRIDGE
VERSUS EXPRESS
B
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.
1 1 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
VIKING 38 OPEN BILLFISH
PHOTO: COURTESY VIKING YACHT COMPANY
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
 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.
RUNNING
The 38 Billfish has an open flying bridge with a
PHOTO: COURTESY VIKING YACHT COMPANY
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 Viking’s debut of
be customized with faux-teak finish, single-lever the 38 Billfish and
engine controls, and a stainless-steel steering wheel.
The SeaStar Solutions Optimus steering is obedient
38 Open Billfish
and responsive, and delivers swift maneuverability provides an oppor-
with a light touch on the wheel. A ladder-back tunity to compare
Release helm chair is standard. The available
fiberglass hardtop and the Costa Clear enclosure
two desirable boat
provide weather protection. The Viking-made layouts.
composite hardtop also features a compartment
By Peter Frederiksen
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
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 1 3
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
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.
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 fishing-
rod 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
PHOTOS: COURTESY VIKING YACHT COMPANY

can be equipped with reverse-cycle air

The upper station on the tower of the 38 Open
Billfish. Though optional, pretty much every-
one orders the boat with a tower installed.
AMENITIES
The three-sided deckhouse of the 38 Billfish
with 81 inches of headroom is straightaway-
practical, with creature comforts and
ease of upkeep. Molded nonslip on the
fiberglass sole provides sure-footedness
and fast cleanups. The port side features a
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.

1 1 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
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. C 2019 | A Brunswick Company
Similarly, if you are looking for a place to
have a meal, the deckhouse area is a well-
suited 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, and serves as a comfortable perch for full-fledged convertible. Nonetheless, one
microwave/convention oven, refrigerator watching the flat-screen television on step up from the Amtico vinyl sole is a pair
and freezer, Corian countertops and the aft bulkhead. A table would be a nice of berths in the forepeak that feature a
stainless-steel sink, and similar stowage addition, although none was available double and single bunk in crossover style.
capacity for cookware and utensils. on our test boat, hinting perhaps at the The enclosed head was surprisingly large,
The lounge on the starboard-side also builder’s approach to make the 38 Open especially the fiberglass shower stall.
includes nap space and stowage galore, Billfish a more casual vessel rather than a Aboard the 38 Billfish, a glass-
and-aluminum door leads to the air-
conditioned 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
PHOTOS: COURTESY VIKING YACHT COMPANY

of maple-lined hanging lockers and

a Bomar hatch for ventilation. An
optional layout offers double and single
crossover berths.

OUR TAKE: With its semi-enclosed

deckhouse, the 38 Billfish has an
amenities edge over the 38 Open’s
express layout.

1 1 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
 VACATION WITH US AT MOORINGS.COM/BOATING | 800.669.6529

DREAM LESS. DO MORE.

COCKPIT/BOW
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
1 1 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
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.
OUR TAKE: Tie: Both the Billfish and the
Open offer excellent cockpit and foredeck
accoutrements.
RIGGING AND
SERVICE ACCESS
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-, 24-
and 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
PHOTOS: COURTESY VIKING YACHT COMPANY
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: Service access and rigging
are as good as it gets aboard both boats.
Yachts and Boats | Boat Accessories and Services | Yacht Clubs and Rental Services | Outdoor Leisure Products
 CONSTRUCTION
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.

OUR TAKE: Tie: Both boats naturally share the

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

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

COURTESY CUMMINS
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 VIKING 38 OPEN BILLFISH

n. mi. sound n. mi. sound
rpm knots mph gph range angle level rpm knots mph gph range angle level
900 6.6 7.5 2.8 975 0.0 80 900 6.9 7.9 3.0 952 0.0 75
1200 7.9 9.0 5.6 584 1.0 81 1200 8.5 9.7 5.8 606 1.7 82
1500 9.1 10.4 11.2 336 3.5 87 1500 10.1 11.6 10.6 394 4.5 85
1800 10.3 11.8 17.2 247 5.0 88 1800 13.9 15.9 17.4 330 6.0 85
2100 17.1 19.6 23.2 305 5.0 91 2100 19.5 22.4 22.4 360 6.0 87
2400 21.6 24.8 29.8 300 5.0 91 2400 24.9 28.6 28.4 362 5.0 90
2700 26.8 30.8 34.6 320 4.5 92 2700 29.0 33.3 34.2 351 5.0 91
3000 30.3 34.8 44.6 281 4.5 93 3000 32.7 37.6 46.4 291 4.5 92
3350 34.2 39.3 56.0 252 4.0 94 3300 36.1 41.5 56.6 264 4.0 95
MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED MOST ECONOMICAL CRUISING SPEED
CUMMINS QSB 6.7
DIESEL INBOARD
· LOA: 38'8" · BEAM: 14'0" · DRAFT: 3'4" · DISPLACEMENT: · LOA: 38'8" · BEAM: 14'0" · DRAFT: 3'4" · DISPLACEMENT:
31,810 lb. (full fuel, water) · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 12 degrees 30,100 lb. (full fuel, water) · TRANSOM DEADRISE: 12 degrees Both the 38 Billfish and the 38 Open
· MAX CABIN HEADROOM: 6'9" · FUEL CAPACITY: 460 gal. · MAX CABIN HEADROOM: 6'9" · FUEL CAPACITY: 460 gal.
· WATER CAPACITY: 69 gal. · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 18'5" · WATER CAPACITY: 69 gal. · BRIDGE CLEARANCE: 15'5" Billfish we tested featured twin Cummins
(top of hardtop masthead light) (waterline to hardtop); 24'0" (waterline to top of tower
sunshade)
QSB 6.7 diesel inboard power. With
HOW WE TESTED common rail injection, the engine proved
ENGINES: TWIN 542 HP CUMMINS QSB 6.7 DIESEL
HOW WE TESTED quiet, responsive and essentially smoke-
ENGINES: TWIN 542 HP CUMMINS QSB 6.7 DIESEL
INBOARDS PROPS: 4-BLADE ACME NIBRAL GEAR RATIO: ZF free. Check these key specs.
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)
V I K I N G YA C H T C O M P A N Y
609-296-6000; vikingyachts.com
2.227:1 FUEL LOAD: 285 GAL. WATER LOAD: 69 GAL.
CREW: 3 PRICE: $1,142,959 (AS TESTED)
· 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.)

1 2 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
 E
ELECTRONICS

By Jim Hendricks

MERCURY
MARINE Ask KEN
1ST MATE
OVERBOARD ARE COMBINATION

ALERT SYSTEM functional, even if it’s removed

VHF/AIS RADIOS
AS GOOD AS
DEDICATED AIS
Marine propulsion systems are becoming from the vessel, without a secu-
SYSTEMS?
increasingly integrated with digital marine rity handshake from the hub.
Mercury 1st Mate works with Most VHF radios with built-in
electronics to offer more information, control, all SmartCraft-compatible
AIS are receive-only sets.
security and safety. One of the latest advances That is, they show AIS infor-
Mercury engines, including mation from other boats but
in this field is the Mercury Marine 1st Mate outboards, sterndrive systems do not broadcast your boat’s
wireless overboard alert system that lets and inboards. The 1st Mate ID and navigation data, so
system is also available under you will not be seen by other
crewmembers know if someone goes overboard. AIS-equipped vessels.
Mercury’s aftermarket label,
VHF/AIS radios usually
The 1st Mate Overboard mobile device with the app. If Quicksilver, and it’s designed have built-in GPS as well.
Alert from Mercury Marine the captain is solo, 1st Mate can to work with non-SmartCraft The combination of these
uses wearable fobs that pair also send messages to contacts Mercury motors and marine key instruments saves
wirelessly with a free mobile in the emergency list. If a engines from other leading money and mounting area
brands, but lacks some of the on space-starved helms.
app that in turn communicates crewmember falls over the side,
Simrad, with its recently
with an engine-integrated hub. audible alarms sound, but the integration and functionality announced RS40-B model,
The system will cover up to motor continues to run. In both of the Merc system, including is the first to integrate an
eight crewmembers (including cases, the app records the GPS the theft-deterrent feature. AIS Class B transponder
the captain). location at the time of the alert. The system starts at $571.41 with a VHF radio that can
If the captain (identified by The Merc system can also for a single engine, with incre- both receive and transmit

a special fob) goes overboard, act as a theft deterrent by
the engine(s) immediately stop, locking the engines to prevent
and an audible alarm sounds unauthorized use. Once locked,
from the hub and any nearby the engine will not be fully
The new Halo20+ and
HALO20 Halo20 marine radar
systems from sister
SERIES brands Lowrance and
Simrad feature
MARINE compact radomes for
boats under 30 feet
in length. Boasting
RADARS pulse-compression
mental price increases as the
number of engines increase;
mercurymarine.com,
quicksilver-products.com.
radar technology, the you the ability to view
20-inch-diameter targets at a distance
domes offer pinpoint and returns at tighter
close-range target
definition for navigat-
ranges simultaneously.
The 24-nautical-
ing harbors, rivers and
high-traffic waterways
mile-range Halo20
serves as a more
in limited-visibility con- cost-effective radar
ditions, such as in fog, solution.
at night or both. Designed to easily
The Halo20+ fea- network with current
tures a 60 rpm scan- Lowrance and Simrad
ner rotation speed, MFDs, models also
VelocityTrack Doppler feature MARPA target
technology for eas- tracking, InstantOn,
ily tracking targets and harbor, offshore
moving toward your and weather modes.
position, bird mode, $1,699 (Halo20),
36-nautical-mile $2,199 (Halo20+);
range, and dual-range lowrance.com;
operation, which gives sim rad-yachting.com
PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY MERCURY MARINE (2), CRAIG HASHIMOTO, COURTESY SIMRAD
AIS navigational informa-
tion. 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 lim-
ited to the small screen on
your VHF. The output from
any AIS set (be it stand-
alone 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.

1 2 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
EVERYDAY
f or yo u r v eh icl e !

FloorLiner
Ultimate protection against spilled
™

drinks, wet shoes and muddy messes.

Rear FloorLiner
™
Our custom-fit FloorLiners are a lifesaver,
keeping messes away from your vehicle’s
floor and saving you time when cleaning.
Plus, they’re easy to install in minutes.
Front FloorLiner™
Available in Black, Tan and Grey
(Cocoa Available for Select Applications)

Designed and Engineered in USA -

Handcrafted in Germany
Under Seat
CupFone® Storage System Side Window Deflectors

See these products and much more at

American Customers Canadian Customers European Customers

Order Now: 800-441-6287 WeatherTech.com WeatherTech.ca WeatherTech.eu

Accessories available for: Acura • Alfa Romeo • Aston Martin • Audi • BMW • Buick • Cadillac • Chevrolet • Chrysler • Dodge • Ferrari • Fiat • Ford • Genesis • GMC
Honda • Hummer • Hyundai • Infiniti • Isuzu • Jaguar • Jeep • Kia • Land Rover • Lexus • Lincoln • Maserati • Mazda • Mercedes-Benz • Mercury • MINI • Mitsubishi
Nissan • Oldsmobile • Plymouth • Pontiac • Porsche • RAM • SAAB • Saturn • Scion • Smart • Subaru • Suzuki • Tesla • Toyota • Volkswagen • Volvo and more!

© 2020 MacNeil IP LLC

Hit the high seas with
a low-rate boat loan

Recreational Use Fixed APRs* as low as

4.39 $50,000 +
%
5.29
$25,000 – $49,999
%

Rates accurate as of 12/16/19. See website for current rates

and terms, as well as financing for Live-Aboards and loan
amounts below $25,000.

New • Used • Refinance

When the sea beckons, answer the call with an affordable marine loan from Essex Credit. Whether refinancing
an existing loan or financing a new or used boat for live-aboard, full- or part-time charter, or pleasure use, our
dedicated consultants can help you with your dream vessel. And with our simple online application, securing a
loan couldn’t be easier. So visit our website or call 866-377-3948 (TTY: 800-659-5495) today to take
advantage of the open water, and our low, fixed APR*.

Apply online at EssexCredit.com/boating

* Estimated APR (Annual Percentage Rate) based on 5 year loan term; individual rate may vary based on loan amount, loan term, vehicle use, model year and type of boat. Subject
to consumer loan program requirements and credit approval. Rates and terms 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. © 2020 Bank of the West. Doing business in South Dakota as Bank of the West California. NMLS ID 19116
 Atlass Insurance : Small Boats | Yachts | Mega Yachts

Managing the Full Spectrum

of Marine Insurance

For over 35 years, the Atlass Insurance Group has set the industry
standard for comprehensive and affordable custom marine insurance
across the entire yachting spectrum – from coastal cruising small boats
to mega yachts worldwide.

Direct access to, and strong working relations with, the finest US and
London yacht insurance underwriters ensures Atlass clients receive the
broadest coverage on the most competitive terms. Personal service and
years of experience ensures peace of mind.

Main Office - Ft Lauderdale, FL 954.525.0582

Also - Cocoa Beach, FL and Newport, RI www.atlassinsurance.com

www.RiskStrategies.com
 MARKETPLACE

Demand the best in your next boat! MIAMI BOAT SHOW

:RUOG&KDPSLRQEXLOGHUVOLNH<HOORZƓQ&RQWHQGHU Feb 13-17, 2020
&LJDUHWWH1RUWHFKDQG)RXQWDLQGHPDQGLivorsi. Booth E343

Hydraulic Billet Trim Tabs Wheel w/ Speed Knob Vantage View Gauges
5 sizes to choose from 5 colors to choose from CAN bus gauges
Constructed for heavy saltwater conditions Smooth soft grip, anodized aluminum Plug and play system
Optional Garmin Panoptix™ or LED that will survive in heavy saltwater Compatible with SmartCraft®
underwater lights Private labeling available and NMEA 2000®
LED Position Indicators
Can be applied to tabs, drives,
fuel, water and more ZZZOLYRUVLFRPVDOHV#OLYRUVLFRP

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:
No More Wet, Dirty,
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
Damaging Bunk Carpet
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 N ew!
™

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.

3
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. YEAR WARRANTY
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 SOFT SYNTHETIC BUNK COVERS
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). · Sizes for all trailers, lifts & Cradles
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). · Prevents hull damage during trailering
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: · Eliminates invasive species transfer
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
& blistering
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.

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 2 7
MARKETPLACE

Flip Flip Hooray! Limited to

the first 1900
A full two
carats of
A perfect symbol of fun in the sun for only $79 responders
shimmering
Why not recreate that special toes-in-the-sand moment with our Blue Topaz blue topaz set
to this ad in sterling
Dolphin Pendant? The beloved sea mammal has been captured mid-jump in
sterling silver. And, tucked into its fins is a full two carats of shimmering blue topaz. only! silver
Nothing captures the shimmering color of the ocean in the midday sun like blue
topaz. With its sparkling clear blue color and high refractive index, blue topaz is one of
the top-selling blue gemstones. And with our special price, you have quite the catch.
Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. Enjoy the Blue Topaz Dolphin
Pendant for 30 days. If it doesn’t pass the test swimmingly, send it back for a full
refund of the item price.
Limited Reserves. A full two carats of genuine blue topaz set in sterling silver for
this price is as rare as a dolphin sighting. We cannot guarantee availability for long.
Call today!
Blue Topaz Dolphin Pendant $395 † ÌÌÌÌÌ
Offer Code Price Only $79 + S&P “This sterling silver dolphin is
Save $316! absolutely beautiful and the blue To show exquisite
You must use the insider offer code
topaz is like the color of the ocean” details, pendant shown
to get our special price. is not exact size.
— Vivian, Cabool, MO
1-800-333-2045 Stauer ®
Chain sold separately.

Your Offer Code: DPP268-01 Rating of A+ 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155,
† Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your Dept. DPP268-01, Burnsville, Minnesota
offer code. • 2 ctw blue topaz; ½ ctw DiamondAura® 55337 www.stauer.com
• .925 sterling silver setting • Sterling silver chain sold separately Afford the Extraordinary ®

96

OUTBOARD VERSUS STERNDRIVE

Print Subscribers
Get iPad® edition
FREE!
Download the app today
for instant access.
TROLLING-
P.
54

MOTOR ROUNDUP To Subscribe go to:

C boatingmag.com/subicribe
C E R T I F I E D B O AT T E S T S
BACK COVE 340 / CHAPARRAL 21 SSi / PURSUIT DC 326
WORLD CAT 400DC-X / BLACKFIN 332 CC / MALIBU 22 LSV
NORTH COAST 280CC / BRIG NAVIGATOR 610
OCTOBER 2019 VOLUME 92 NUMBER 8

Apple, the Apple Logo, and iTunes are trademarks of Apple Inc.,
registered in the U.S. and other countries. iPad is a trademark of
Apple Inc. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

1 2 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
 MARKETPLACE

• Decorative Genuine +;AC;:p@C-:@@;95??;A@;:@45?1??1:@5-8/;881/@;>p?7:521

Turquoise Handle +;A/-:A?15@@;-00@;E;A>;C:<1>?;:-8/;881/@5;:;>C41:
• 3.75" Stainless Steel Blade E;A->1;A@4A:@5:3 5:@41ŋ180\Ys8;:3
w&;@-81:3@4\Y @45?7:521.;-?@? -01/;>-@5B131:A5:1
w">;@1/@5B1%41-@4:/8A010 Turquoise 4-:081@4-@>1Ō1/@?-
modern 2118 /;9<81@1C5@4-
W[Ys ?@-5:81???@118.8-01
WHEN IT’S JUST YOU <1>21/@8Eŋ@@5:3?41-@4
VERSUS THE WILD! <>;@1/@?-:09-71?5@-<1>

21/@<>1?1:@-@5;:2;>-352@
Decorative Genuine
$1?501:@?"$!"ZY)$  &45?<>;0A/@/-:
Turquoise Handle 1D<;?1E;A@;/4195/-8?5:/8A05:34>;95A9  5/718 -:0N
;>1-0 C45/4->17:;C:@;@41%@-@1;2-852;>:5-@;/-A?1
/-:/1>-:0.5>@40121/@?;>;@41>>1<>;0A/@5B14->9%11CCC
"ZY)->:5:3?/-3;B2;>9;>15:2;

OFFER CODE: BT 9 D TQ
"$!&&(%&
INCLUDED WITH EVERY
"'$%

ORDER YOURS TODAY! TOLL FREE 24/7

1-800 733 8463 You Must Use Your Promo Code For Your
timepiecesusa.com/bt9dtq %<1/5-8!Ŋ1>">5/1;2^]]<8A??45<<5:3

Timepieces Int Inc , 10701 NW 140th Street , Suite 1, Hialeah Gardens, Fl . 33018 • 1 - 800 733 8463 • www.timepiecesusa .com

ASTROslip
™

The Ultimate Coiled Bunk Covers

1 Piece Total Coverage
Extremely Durable
Makes Trailering and Launch a Breeze NEWPORT, RI
Easy to Install 97 Harrison Ave.
No Water or Salt Retention Dealer Inquiries $925,000
No Splices Welcome
Walk to the harbor and to the New York
Yacht Club from this 2700 sq. foot carriage
house condominium! This 3BR/2BA home,
www.astroplastics.com the last remaining building from Edith
Wharton’s Newport estate, is filled with
14101 Industrial Park Blvd. N.E. « Covington, GA 30014 charm and detail. Architectural ceilings and
Toll Free: 1-800-334-4474 « 770-786-2703 a loft over the main living area create a light
open feel. 4 car parking. Front and back
entrance courtyards. Beautifully maintained
grounds for entertaining. Low HOA fees
and care free exterior maintenance
make this a unique opportunity.

For classified &

marketplace ad placement
8 Freebody Street, Suite 203 | Newport, RI 02840
Contact Brian Luke Lisa Morrison
203-217-3990 401-845-6900
lisa@thenewportgroupri.com www.ColdwellBankerHomes.com
e-mail: brian.luke@bonniercorp.com The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple
Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should

call: 407-571-4788 QRWUHO\XSRQLWZLWKRXWSHUVRQDOYHUL¿FDWLRQ5HDOHVWDWHDJHQWVDI¿OLDWHGZLWK&ROGZHOO%DQNHU5HVLGHQWLDO%URNHUDJHDUHLQGHSHQGHQW

FRQWUDFWRU VDOHV DVVRFLDWHV QRW HPSOR\HHV  &ROGZHOO %DQNHU 5HVLGHQWLDO %URNHUDJH$OO 5LJKWV 5HVHUYHG &ROGZHOO %DQNHU
5HVLGHQWLDO%URNHUDJHIXOO\VXSSRUWVWKHSULQFLSOHVRIWKH)DLU+RXVLQJ$FWDQGWKH(TXDO2SSRUWXQLW\$FW2ZQHGE\DVXEVLGLDU\RI
157//&&ROGZHOO%DQNHUDQGWKH&ROGZHOO%DQNHU/RJRDUHUHJLVWHUHGVHUYLFHPDUNVRZQHGE\&ROGZHOO%DQNHU5HDO(VWDWH//&

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 2 9
 OFF MY DOCK By Charles Plueddeman

was dripping down onto Amy’s

orange life jacket. It took Chuck a
moment to realize what had hap-
pened, 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
N OW O N D I S P L AY left to professionals. Lacking a cut-
ting tool, Chuck instructed Amy to
A muskie lure is offered as penance. support the weight of the Suicidal

M
y good friend Chuck Larson and I were heading north for a little Sucker so that it wasn’t dangling
late-season muskie casting, tires of the truck and boat trailer from her ear, beached the boat back
hissing over the wet pavement of Highway 45. The cold rain was at the landing, loaded up the kids,
a good omen—we feel the fishing gods reward misery. and raced in his truck to the ER in ER.
“We could stop at the ER in ER to see my lure,” Chuck said, referring to It’s interesting that the Suicidal
the hospital emergency room in Eagle River, Wisconsin, a comment that Sucker is not the largest lure, or
opened an old, forgotten file in the No Good Deed Goes Unpunished folder even the oldest, in the display case
of my memory. on the wall of the emergency room
Years ago, Chuck had offered to take his niece Amy and nephew Alan, ages lobby. More than 100 lures and
8 and 10, respectively, fishing on Long Lake. Chuck loaded the cooler with hooks are behind the glass, along
pop, buttered bologna sandwiches, and a fresh tub of Canadian crawlers, with small bottles of bird shot, some
anticipating a relaxing day of bobber-fishing for panfish. But Alan, being a large nails, and a really big wood
boy, wanted to go for more, and he splinter, each item removed from an
It’s interesting that the begged Chuck to tie on to his line unfortunate patient by the ER staff.
the biggest muskie lure in the tackle I think many of those patients never
Suicidal Sucker is not the larg- box, a vintage Water Wolf Suicidal wanted to see the offending object
est lure, or even the oldest, in Sucker that measured an impres- again. In Chuck’s case, giving up the ILLUSTRATION: TIM BOWER; PHOTO: MABEL PLUEDDEMAN

sive 8 inches. What’s the harm, Suicidal Sucker felt like appropriate
the display case on the wall of Chuck thought as he cinched the penance for his failure to safeguard
the emergency room lobby. knot tight. the children.
“OK son, give her a toss,” Chuck “My sister got over it,” Chuck said
said, and with that Alan reared back with all his might and heaved the as we looked at the lure, “although
rod toward open water. The next thing Chuck heard was not the singing the holidays were tense that year.
of the reel or the splash of the lure, but Amy screaming in agony. Somehow And Amy still doesn’t wear an
the angle of Alan’s rod and his position in the front of the small aluminum earring on the right side.”
boat had caused the Suicidal Sucker to intersect Amy’s right ear, and now Like I said: The fishing gods
one of its ancient treble hooks was securely embedded there, and blood 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; boating-
mag.com/cs. Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement No. 40612608 Canada. Returns to be sent to IMEX Global Solutions, PO Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2 Canada. If the postal service alerts
us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within one year.

1 3 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