Category: Boats

You want boats? We got boats! From classic cruising boats to flashy center consoles boats, Southern Boating is your go-to place for the latest and greatest boats on the market. From center consoles to motoryachts, Southern Boating is the authority on warm-water cruising.

Hatteras 45 EX

Hatteras’ new entry-level launch injects the brand with new life—and new possibilities.

Let me be honest right from the start—I sea trialed the new Hatteras 45 Express Cruiser (45 EX) soon after it was launched, and I was also fortunate enough to view it from another boat as she ran at speed in the ocean. I studied the layout of the helm and cockpit, and, of course, I put my paws all over the interior—opened doors and drawers, and peered into nooks and crannies. My verdict? Hatteras has created a fun, easy to operate, great handling boat with the 45 EX.

Cruise with the family, drop a fishing line with the guys or gals, or just lie at anchor with your favorite book/movie/sunset view (you fill in the blank)—the 45 EX delivers and adapts. The large cockpit, for example, is a great place for the kids to play, accommodates a few lounge chairs for sunning, or suitably fits cocktail party guests with foldout side bench seating topped with padded coaming. Mezzanine seating adds a vantage point for watching the kids play in the water or spotting the next fish on. With armrests and cup holders, you may never move.

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The built-in transom baitwell keeps the live ones swimming. Use it, instead, as a cooler filled with ice and bevvies or let the kids use it to store their day’s treasures—thanks to the well’s window they’ll have a field day watching the crabs or snappers they caught meandering about. Under the hardtop, the helm deck’s forward and side windows become part of the structure, with clear panels closing off the aft opening. Side vent windows and an overhead hatch let the breeze in, or opt for climate control with your air conditioning or heating system and boat all year round.

Hatteras designed the 45 EX with optimum visibility, which includes the single pane forward windshield. That’s right, it’s one piece of glass—a panoramic view with no mullions to get in the way—a much preferable setup to split windows. Expect the crowd to hang here, as there’s a large L-shaped settee along the aft side and to port, and has a lounger backrest. As witnessed by my portly frame taking a load off, the cushions are well padded and a very comfortable spot from which to enjoy a meal or cocktails on the double-posted table. A molded-in cabinet on the starboard side serves multiple functions. The forward end has a helm companion seat mounted on top—a high perch to see it all—while in the cabinet below is a fridge and freezer and air conditioning/heat vent. Further aft is a flip-up cover where the electric grill is located.

Standing at the elevated helm, there’s perfect vision fore and aft courtesy of the downslope of the forward deck and minimal bow rise during acceleration. Functionally, Hatteras worked the console and dash where they are not overbearing in size. With a pod-style helm, destroyer steering and Palm Beach single-lever shift controls, there’s room forward for the bank of switches to be housed in a plate, with names etched into the metal. CAT engine displays are installed here for easy viewing. Twin Garmin plotter/radar displays are mounted in the console, one directly in front and the other off to the left. Stereo, VHF, autopilot, and engine sync are mounted off to the left but easily within arm’s reach.

It’s easy to see the demographics that Hatteras is targeting with the 45 EX—an entry-level boat for newbies, couples and families inclusive, or doubles as a tender for large yachts. It also keeps Hatteras lovers in the brand as they downsize from larger sportfishers and motoryachts. The 45 EX is based on the former CABO 44 EX—a brand owned by Hatteras—and was produced side-by-side with the Hatteras yachts at their facility in New Bern, North Carolina. When the CABO line ceased production, Hatteras pulled the molds over and “Hatterized” the 44 EX by enhancing the model and injecting it with the Hatteras level of quality and support.

The 45 EX is powered by CAT C18s—good-sized engines sporting 1,150 horsepower each, which easily handled the chop as we took off from Port Everglades, Florida, for the high seas. (Offshore they were only really about two-footers). A burn rate of about 50 gallons an hour (combined total) at 1,500 RPM produced over 22 knots, but when we pushed the throttles up to 2100 RPM the 45 EX zoomed up to 37.5 knots drinking 95 gallons per hour. It’s good to know that if you need a little more go, there’s more to get. We pushed her to wide open and a speed of 40.7 knots. It’s an exhilaration that gets the blood flowing but with the confidence that the resin-infused solid fiberglass hull knows how to handle the rush. Back at the dock I checked out the engine room and although the access size of the entrance was fine—via a floor hatch just behind the helm seat—it was a bit cumbersome getting in and out around the seat. Thanks in part to owner feedback, I’m told they will be changing the location of the entrance, likely through the cockpit mezzanine.

Suitable for a day trip, weekend getaway or extended cruise, the 45 EX has full amenities below deck for comfortable living. Galley features include wood flooring, four Jenn-Air fridge/freezer drawers, Kenyon two-burner cooktop, KitchenAid microwave, Blanco sink and faucet, and quartz countertops. There’s storage under the dinette seating, and a large wood table. Forward is a stateroom with center berth, private head access and 32″ TV. An optional second stateroom can be fitted at the forward area of the dinette.

To entice the fishermen to this model, Hatteras has made the 45 Express Sportfish fitted with tuna tower, outriggers, cockpit fighting chair or leaning post, tackle center, and fish boxes. Built on the same hull configuration and engine packages, it will deliver the same results while maintaining the Hatteras quality.

It must have been a good decision by Hatteras to create the niche size, as they have sold a number of them since its debut, which is understandable. The size is right, the handling works, the accommodations are suitable, and it’s the kind of boat that keeps boating fun. Hatterasexpress.com

By Tom Serio, Southern Boating March 2015

Marlow Explorer 58E

Modest Size, Mega Features

The smallest of the Marlow Explorers is big on style.

Marlow Yachts offers vessels that are grand in stature and classic in styling, as I’ve noted in past reviews of the Marlow Explorer (ME) 80E (see Southern Boating, February 2014) and ME 72E. Marlow Yachts also introduces the same level of superior craftsmanship and styling in a yacht much smaller—the ME 58E. Built to replace the 57E, the 58E is the smallest in the Explorer line, with a 49E in the works to debut in early 2015.

Quality craftsmanship is guaranteed on all Marlows, inside and out. The proven Full Stack Infusion© process allows for the entire structure to be infused all at once, from the outer skin coat through the coring material/fabric layers to the inner skin. Ensuring the perfect amount of resin to permeate all of the layers is critical to prevent pools of excess resin from forming in the laminate. Additionally, no harmful resin fumes or chemicals are released into the environment.

The beauty factor is carried out in the 58E’s styling. Non-skid, covered, walk-around decks, a fully covered aft deck, bow seating, and a Portuguese Bridge come standard—features typically found on larger yachts. From a side view, the house/flybridge are neatly proportioned for length and height against the lapstrake hull. Angular struts supporting the flybridge coincide with the top deck supports, and the forward windshield is swept back akin to the flybridge windshield. The bottom line? It’s one good-looking yacht.

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David Marlow once told me that he builds his yachts like an airplane fuselage—fully supported around the house so there is no need for obtrusive bulkheads or posts within. This technique lends to a more open floor layout and reduces the yacht’s weight by moving the center of gravity lower, which also improves stability. Another benefit is that the interior wood is used in a cosmetic form rather than structural purposes, which creates more dynamic layouts.

The ME 58E can be construed as an extension of home. To begin, the aft deck is large with twin L-shaped settees and tables in the corners. Access to the swim platform is via a center staircase, while access to the flybridge—a preferred area for dining—is from the portside curved staircase (no ladder here). The homey feeling extends into the saloon with a gently curved leather couch to starboard in front of a decorated shelf that keeps both the couch and guest’s head off the sidewall.

Marlow piques interest with décor. Teak wood cut from the same tree ensures consistent grain, color and grade—a satin finish for the walls and cabinetry blends well with the lighter shades of the sofa and ceiling panels. The owners’ choice was to have two armchairs to port, covered in a blue plaid fabric for contrast. An entertainment console is forward with sliding doors to conceal the flat-screen TV and stereo systems, with cabinets for storing components. A wet bar to port includes a fridge, ice maker, recessed sink, and fold-down faucet.

If you’re fortunate enough to see the 58E at one of this fall’s boat shows, take a good look at the woodwork. Marlow does it right with teak grab-rails that meld into the overall décor—display cases, doorframes, teak and holly flooring, custom air conditioning vents and molding, and teak coffee table with fiddled edges all blend seamlessly.

Up a few steps is the raised pilothouse level. The AC/DC distribution/breaker panel is eye-level at the steps in its own cabinet, so there’s no need to get down on hands and knees to throw a switch. The U-shaped galley is aft of the helm station. With its mid-ship location, it’s easy to serve guests in the saloon, forward dinette or even up on the flybridge. Smartly laid out—with expansive granite honeycomb counters, over/under cabinets and drawers, Franke double sink with Grohe faucet, Kenyon electric cooktop, microwave oven, and four fridge/freezer drawers—the galley is open on the forward side but semi-enclosed from the saloon. The gourmet touches make food prep a pleasure.

The forward helm with dinette to port arrangement works well to keep the captain and crew in close proximity. With the upper Command Bridge option, the lower station is optional and the space can accommodate a full dinette under the forward windows. The multi-tiered, centerline helm has room for two or three charts and radar displays in the upper dash, with space for a bevy of components on the mid-level (i.e. CAT engine displays, autopilot, speed/depth log, Maxwell anchor controls, stabilizer controls, etc.).

It’s well known that David Marlow has personally owned more than a few of his own yachts and welcomes input from other owners, which may have contributed to the two pantograph doors on either side of the raised pilothouse for quick entry and exit. Many builders may opt for one, but this gives a Marlow owner/operator ease of access when docking or handling lines without having to walk around the house to get to the other side.

Accommodations are accessed from the staircase next to the helm. The master is mid-ship just aft of the foyer. You’ll find a king berth just off center, with the head/shower stall running along the port side and chest of drawers and locker along the starboard, thanks to the generous 18-foot, 6-inch beam. With the head and locker being side–to rather than aft of the stateroom, it keeps all staterooms well sized, with ample room for the engine room and aft crew quarters. Locating the fuel tank between the stateroom and engines helps buffer noise.

The queen VIP is forward, with ensuite head and shower stall—old-world charm exudes thanks to the teak finish that fully envelops the room. A third stateroom has double bunks but can also double as an office, thanks to the built-in desk unit with cabinets and even a dedicated printer cubby. Crew quarters located aft have twin bunks, fridge, microwave, TV, and a private head.

Not to be outdone by the rest of the 58E’s luxury, the flybridge is not only a space for relaxation but also to take in the sights of new destinations. Twin Stidd helm chairs, full helm electronics and a chart table next to the captain add to the business function. Relax on the aft corner settee with table across from the exterior entertainment center; it could also include a grill, icemaker, and fridge. With the deck extended fully aft, there’s room for a davit and dinghy or a few chaise lounge chairs.

If speed is what you need, opt for the C-18 CAT engines. Chances are, however, as with every Marlow I’ve enjoyed, you’ll want the ride to last as long as possible. Marlowyachts.com

By Tom Serio, Southern Boating September 2014

Tiara 50 Flybridge

Tiara’s 50 Flybridge offers world-class views and Volvo Penta’s IPSII drives and engines.

Piloting a boat from the flybridge helm station adds the bonus of unmatched ocean vistas, but hot, humid weather can be a deterrent to outdoor operation. Add in rain and wind and you could get chased down below—but not aboard Tiara’s new 50 Flybridge. Based on the successful 50 Coupe launched in late 2013, the 50 Flybridge is designed to be encircled with a removable enclosure. When closed off to the elements the helm and passenger space can be shelter from poor weather or blissfully air conditioned. As a case in point, at the 2014 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show where the 50 Flybridge was introduced, that cool upper perch was a favorite spot of show-goers looking to escape the midday heat.

Even better, while underway the captain has complete operational control of the 50 Flybridge while six or more guests can comfortably sit inside. The center-mounted helm station is fully rigged with steering wheel, throttles, shifters and a Garmin 15-inch multi-function display, a mini-version of the Glass Cockpit arrangement on the main-deck helm station. The Glass Cockpit is a collaboration between Garmin and Volvo Penta that gathers all driver information and displays it in one spot. The easy-to-handle, pinch-to-zoom displays give you instant control. (Learn more about the Glass Cockpit at southernboating.com/volvo-penta-glass-cockpit/.

All the settings that you control, including instrument dimming, are carried out concurrently at the helm and the flybridge. With the Glass Cockpit system you get a common, ergonomic design—and interface—for the whole dashboard, with push buttons on the controls and touch buttons on the screens.

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“We opted for the center-style helm because it’s more comfortable to run,” explained David Glenn, marketing director for S2 Yachts, the parent company of Tiara Yachts and Pursuit Boats. “Having this central helm also keeps everyone engaged, with the three-person lounges to either side. There’s also the convertible sunpad lounge area that looks aft. It’s a great spot to get out of the fray and look toward the cockpit and swim platform while people play in the water.”

A port-side staircase leads guests down from the flybridge to the spacious cockpit, which features an aft lounge along the transom bulkhead, a fiberglass cockpit table with high-low actuator, and port and starboard aft-facing seats in the corners with storage underneath. Port and starboard stairs lead to the huge swim step, with an optional Nautical Structures hydraulic swim platform.

“There’s a ton of storage in the aft garage for fenders, toys and more,” added Glenn, demonstrating how the area is accessed via a single electrical door hinged at the top. “This also allows you to get to the Volvo Penta IPS pod drives and running gear.” Access to the engine room is through a hatch in the sole of the cockpit.

Moving forward through the cockpit, sliding-glass doors lead into the salon and the expansive galley inside that occupies the entire aft section. With the sliding-glass doors open the flow from the transom bulkhead all the way forward to the helm station is completely open. The aft galley is a connecting point and allows the chef to be fully engaged with guests and the pilot. The galley is equipped with a refrigerator/freezer to starboard and electric cooktop and sink on the port side.

A lounge with a large Ultraleather couch is forward to port—teak and walnut are incorporated into all the furniture. A Samsung 40-inch flat-screen TV that rises out of a console is to starboard, and all the way forward is the starboard helm station with a helm chair and fully outfitted Glass Cockpit dash.

The three-stateroom arrangement has an interesting atrium area when you descend from the helm on the port stairs. “There’s lots of light through these large windows—it’s open and you can see all the way aft,” Glenn points out. “The boat also features teak and wenge wood and Chilewich wall coverings throughout the interior.”

The VIP berth in the bow area offers twin beds that can be split apart or pushed together along with a hanging locker and plenty of storage. The VIP also features private access to a starboard dayhead with a large shower area. “This layout has a washer and dryer and third stateroom,” Glenn said. The third stateroom can also be situated as an office with a couch.

The master stateroom is located amidships and offers a well-appointed bathroom with a shower and wood-slate floor. A divided storage compartment with manually actuated gas spring drawers under the queen-size bed is an intelligent way to use the space. The bed is positioned with its headboard on the starboard side, and to port is a couch and large window above it. The master also features a cedar-backed hanging locker and its own Marine Air 16,000-Btu air conditioning system. There’s also a Samsung 29-inch flat screen TV and Blu-Ray DVD player.

Comfortable cabins and a spacious galley make the Tiara 50 Flybridge a superb overnighting platform whether at anchor or at the docks. In addition, while underway the boat’s twin Volvo Penta D11 750-horsepower diesel engines provide the power for remarkable performance. The engines are mated to Volvo Penta’s latest-generation IPSII 950 drives with Joystick Plus control. The pods make it possible to dock in a completely intuitive way, and also deliver 30 percent reduced fuel consumption and a 50 percent lower perceived noise level compared to conventional inboards.

“The 50 Flybridge runs on the same bottom as the 50 Coupe,” explained Tom Slikkers, CEO and President of S2 Yachts, during a presentation at the Fort Lauderdale show. “The Tiara DNA is incorporated into all the new boats we are launching classic lines in a luxurious boat that is equipped with the best propulsion and electronics available.”

Tiarayachts.com

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating March 2015

Monterey 360SC

Monterey 360 Sport Coupe

If you missed the Monterey 360 Sport Coupe at the 2014 Fort Lauderdale Show where it made its official debut, make sure you see it at your local dealer. Perhaps the most interesting design element on this 37’10”-long family cruiser is the patent-pending electronic windshield that slides open (70″) to allow passengers direct access to the foredeck from the cockpit. You can also slide the windshield open just a few inches to bring a gentle breeze into the cockpit. Designed by Monterey and Michael Peters Yacht Design, the 360SC boasts other cool features, including two electric helm chairs with flip-back bolsters that allow the couple at the driving station to turn and face guests in the cockpit when the hook is down. A great entertainer, the 360SC is offered with plenty of seating, a wetbar, an optional grill, home theater system and satellite-ready stereo. The cabin sleeps four in the V-berth and mid-cabin. montereyboats.com

By Jeanne Craig, Southern Boating February 2015

Formula 330 CBR

Formula 330 Crossover Bow Rider

It’s one of the sweetest hybrid models to debut in 2015. The Formula 330 CBR (33′ LOA, 10’3″ beam) is one part day boat, one part overnight cruiser. This crossover model boasts open cockpit and bow areas that are as forward thinking as they are stylish. Lounges and seats, for instance, are convertible and make up into a variety of arrangements to suit the preferences of any group of guests. Seating is covered in fitted upholstery that’s top-notch, as it typically is on a Formula boat. The cabin, accessed through a door near the helm, has six feet of headroom, a lounge that converts to a queen-sized berth, a head with shower, plus an entertainment system. Whether you cruise for a few hours or into the night, driving the 330 should be a thrill. Twin Merc or Volvo engines power the 21-degree deep-V hull to deliver the exacting performance Formula owners have come to expect. formulaboats.com

By Jeanne Craig, Southern Boating February 2015

Ribjet 10 Jet Yacht Tender

Small and Mighty: Ribjet 10 Yacht Tender

The Ribjet 10 Jet Yacht Tender is the first in a series of small jet yacht tenders from the American builder and utilizes an easy to service Rotax 60-hp power plant. The tender was specifically designed to conform to today’s smaller low capacity platforms as well as midrange tender garages. Coming in at under 600 lbs. with full fuel, the Ribjet 10 is sure to spark the interest of yacht owners looking to add style and performance to the ever growing range of midsize express cruisers available today.

Ribjet plans to limit the production of these boats to just 18 units per year. President of the company Jarrett Bryzek says, “We are looking to establish a foothold in the U.S. jet yacht tender market with an emphasis on quality control, on-time delivery and after-sales service.” Bryzek continues, “Being a small custom builder we work directly with our customers on a personal level to understand their needs and make sure the end product is exactly to their liking and delivered on time.” With all-around dimensions and weights coming in less than any competitor on the market, the Ribjet 10 will be priced at $32,900.

The new Ribjet 10 is available, and the company currently has demo boats available for viewing and sea trials through Ribjet’s factory showroom partner, Nautical Ventures based in Dania Beach, Florida.

If you are interested in RIBS, check out our Top 15 Tenders and RIBs.

Contact:
Ribjet U.S.A
(920) 214-3867
ribjetusa.com

or

Nautical Ventures
50 S Bryan Road
Dania Beach, FL 33004
(954) 926-5250
nauticalventures.com

By Liz Pasch, Southern Boating May 2015

Carver C43 Coupe

CARVER C43 Coupe

The C43 Coupe is the builder’s newest flagship. It, too, has the distinctively straight shearlines we’ve seen in the new generation of Carver models introduced over the past few years. It possesses that core Carver DNA, which is to say the C43 will be among the most spacious boats in its class. It’s the second coupe-style model in the builder’s line, and it’s been designed for entertaining. Open the big sliding glass door to connect the salon to the cockpit and create one continuous space from the cabin’s front bulkhead all the way aft to the transom. Carver focused on designing the C43 with minimal steps to make it easier for passengers to move around the boat. This cruiser offers two staterooms and two heads, an electric sunroof, swim platform, and retractable sun shade in the cockpit. We like the wide, safe walk-around that makes it easy for crew to tend lines and access the anchor. carveryachts.com

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Watch the video from Carver Yachts:

Sea Vee 270z Bay Boat

Sea Vee 270z’s high-tech, cored, uni-body construction results in reduced VOC emissions. They are able to achieve this using a state-of-the-art manufacturing process where the hull, stringers and bulkheads are fabricated using a vacuum assisted resin transfer infusion (VARTM) process, which also makes a higher quality laminate, and a practically indestructible boat. A patent-pending hull design allows for minimum resistance regardless of speed or sea conditions, and the cross-ventilated twin stepped hull of the 270z has greater speed and more fuel efficiency than ordinary stepped hull boats. This boat offers superior handling to increase the safety of everyone on board while producing a fun ride.

For functionality, there are two 6-foot-long, 75-gallon insulated fish boxes built into the forward casting platform, with all fish boxes draining overboard to keep the bilge space clean. A 1″ toe kick runs the perimeter of the forward casting platform, aft raised deck and gunnel for a safe 360-degree fishing experience from an elevated position. A 107-gallon storage compartment between the fish boxes features a removable floor that hides three group 31 batteries for a high-thrust trolling motor. A 25-gallon livewell is integrated into the forward area of the cockpit as a convenient step to the forward casting platform. The forward deck
hatch in the cockpit provides storage for a five-gallon utility bucket, 
eight life preservers and a safety kit.

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The customizable console has every upgrade imaginable and the 270Z can be ordered with a hardtop. Ample storage for toys, rods, and personal and safety items can be found in the 9-foot-long storage lockers, and the boat can be customized with optional leaning posts or folding chairs. The 270Z is available with single or twin outboard engines and can handle up to 450 hp on the transom. Its 110-gallon epoxy coated aluminum fuel tank is mounted on the boat’s center of gravity to help prevent trim angle changes as fuel is added or consumed. All light fixtures are LED and the cup holders, rod holders and cleats drain overboard or onto the deck and out through the scuppers. A LE version will be available that includes additional family-friendly features.

Specifications
LOA: 27′
Beam: 9’1″
Draft: 15″
Weight: 3,000 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 110/9 U.S. gals.
MSRP: $104,100 w/ Mercury Verado 300-hp

Contact
John Caballero
6900 NW 77th Ct
Miami, FL 33166
305-790-3071
john@seaveeboat.com
seaveeboats.com

By Christine Carpenter, Southern Exposure April 2015

Viking 92EB

The Viking 92 EB is the culmination of the family-owned company’s 50-year history.

Four or so years ago, Patrick Healey, President, and CEO of Viking Yachts, was in Ocean City, Maryland, aboard a customer’s 115-foot motoryacht. “He owned one of our sportfishing boats as well, and I really enjoyed the spaciousness of being on the kind of yacht that allowed a large group to hang in the country kitchen, entertain others in the main salon, and allow the owners to sit outside with more guests on the aft deck area.” the idea for the Viking 92 EB was born.

The concept impressed Healey so much that he and Viking’s Design Manager, Dave Wilson, and Capt. Ryan Higgins, Viking’s South East Sales Manager, and demo skipper, also along on the visit, had a shared moment. There the Viking 92 EB was first conceived.

Design and engineering took cues from the highly successful Viking 82C. With a $7+ million per year investment in R&D, the two and a half year project culminated in a nine-month build schedule. The Viking 92 EB was the dockside crown jewel in Viking’s recent 50th Anniversary celebration and dealer meeting held in Atlantic City this past September.

The first thing I noticed about the 92 EB is how well proportioned she looks. “It was one of the primary directives, to make her look as good and well balanced whether dockside or out at sea,” says Wilson. Fantastic is a more apt description.

“With the 92 EB we can attract some folks from the larger yachts who also owned a smaller sportfishing boat and want to scale down to just one,” says Higgins. Scaling down to this 92-foot yacht, however, is hardly a sacrifice.

The Viking 92 EB incorporates large yacht features yet keeps intact the successful fish amenities found on all Viking open convertibles and enclosed bridge models. Standard features include an impressive full-service galley, free-standing dining table space, six-stateroom layout, full-beam master with his-and-her heads, walk-in closets, separate crew quarters aft with lounge and galley, a bridge deck that is as good as it gets, and the kind of storage spaces throughout that accommodate long trips away from home. Layout options are flexible.

For example, the pantry on the main deck’s starboard side can be converted into another stateroom. Indeed, on Hull #2, the owner is eliminating the free-standing dining table and reworking the salon layout along with the his-and-her heads by making one side a walk-in closet with the other a special locker design. The owner of Hull #3 included a dinette area inside.

To say the least, the interior fit and finish along with the décor package is as tastefully and well done as I’ve seen on any vessel of her class—and then some. The team paid special attention to the aft deck for an outdoor dining area. The variation on the theme incorporated the mezzanine area and created two levels—a yacht aft deck and a separate fishing mezzanine with seating, livewell, and refrigeration for the massive business end of the 92 EB, the lower cockpit. Fishing crews will utilize this space to be serious competitors in any tournament event.

Aiding that ability is her amazing performance—Captain Higgins had her up and running at a cruise speed of 30 knots with a fast cruise of 32, and she topped out at an impressive 37.2 knots at 2450 rpm in troubling four-to-six foot seas, and into the wind and current. During backing down maneuvers she pirouetted like a prima ballerina. In fact, I actually had to look out at the conditions to remind me we were in this kind of turbulent water. Of course, the Seakeeper M35 Gyro was of great help in keeping us rock steady.

“We’re 200,000+ pounds with full fuel and water,” explains Higgins in the noticeable quiet of the enclosed bridge. “But that all goes to our design and engineering teams with our resin-infused hull and deckhouse reinforced with carbon fiber, Nomex honeycomb in many of the interior panels for weight saving, and along with the hull bottom featuring flush and recessed engine pickups. To help further eliminate drag reduction, we eliminated the keel resulting in a straight V.”

Equal attention was given to the engine room space, which allows total access to every piece of equipment, pump, valve, connection, switch, filter, and any other critical area that needs attention and maintenance. On the Viking 92 EB the components normally found in an engine room that sometimes make for a rather tight space have been allocated to a dedicated space known as the mechanical room. Here one finds—again with complete access and serviceability—the ice chipper, AC power converter system, refrigeration units, compressors, cable masters, centralized water system, and generators. And, of course, access to the mains is accommodated in order to perform total critical engine maintenance with complete ease and accessibility. Another big yacht feature is that aforementioned AC power converter system. It gives the 92 EB complete and worldwide dockside abilities with single-phase, three-phase, 50Hz, 60Hz plug-in abilities.

“We’re a big team and along with our design and engineering folks, we left nothing to chance with this boat,” comments Higgins. “I get to see a lot of reactions when we introduce a new model, and the response to this one has been nothing but spectacular. Once you take the wheel and realize how maneuverable she is, I notice a feeling of complete confidence quickly settles in over whoever is at the helm, whether around the dock or heading out to sea.”

With all the advances Viking has incorporated in its past designs and all the developments integrated into the 92 EB, she will be sure to influence the next yacht, which is, assuredly, already on the drawing board at the New Gretna, New Jersey, headquarters. “It’s been that way for 50 years,” says Healey. “And there is no reason to change that at all. It’s something my father and my uncle, the founders of the company, always held true: We’ll build a better boat every day.”

www.vikingyachts

See The Virtual Tour

By Ken Kreisler, Southern Boating November 2014

Sea Ray L650 Flybridge

Sea Ray’s L650 Fly pushes the boundaries of technology and style for a new class of yachts.

As one of the world’s most recognizable boat brands, Sea Ray has helped millions of people enjoy the water for decades. Founded in 1959, Sea Ray has expanded its model lineup over the years to serve owners of recreational boats large and small, from freshwater lakes and rivers to open oceans. Now the builder has launched its flagship of the new L-Class of yachts, the Sea Ray L650 Fly.

As the largest vessel in the Sea Ray lineup, the L650 Fly is small enough to be handled by an owner operator yet is built with the option of adding crew quarters for a captain and mate. No matter who pilots the yacht, the L650 Fly is designed for ease of operation, with an abundance of high-tech features that aid the captain and crew while running, at rest or around the docks.

“This marks a new era for Sea Ray, a direct result of our desire to shape a better boating future and to offer a new class of yachts above and beyond anything our customers have ever seen,” says Tim Schiek, President of Sea Ray, who added that more L-Class models are on the horizon. “The L-Class speaks not only to Sea Ray’s commitment to purposeful innovation, but also to the company’s strong legacy of impeccable craftsmanship, performance and service. It’s a marriage of style and substance because we firmly believe in the importance of both.”

The L650 Fly’s technological features are remarkable—if you’ve ever wanted to get a bird’s-eye view of what’s going on around your boat, you can do it with the new Command View Video Docking Assistance. “We use three different cameras to stitch together a composite sky view of what’s going on all around the boat,” explains Chris Walker, the Large Boat Category Director at Sea Ray. “The view is shown on the Raymarine multi-function display, and the lines superimposed on the screen give you an idea of how close you are to the dock.” Controlling the L650 Fly in low-speed situations is made even easier with a cockpit docking station. “Though it’s a shaft boat, not pod driven, the L650Fly is equipped with an inboard joystick docking system that integrates the bow thruster, stern thruster and engine gears with joystick control. It is very easy to use. With a twist of your hand you can make the boat go sideways or any direction that you want to go.”

The L650 Fly is powered by twin Caterpillar C18A 1,150-hp diesel engines. A lower helm station on the main deck and a flybridge helm station both feature—in addition to standard helm equipment—two large Raymarine multi-function displays that offer a plethora of configurations to display engine performance and other ship data.

While at rest, twin Seakeeper gyrostabilizers to port and starboard in the engine room take the roll out to make guests more comfortable. In fact, everything about the L650 Fly has been designed to enhance comfort for passengers. For example, a hydraulic swim platform lowers nearly two feet into the water to make reboarding easy after a swim or launching a tender. The cockpit is accessed via either port or starboard stairs from the swim platform, and an optional passerelle can be added to the port side. So if the passerelle is extended, you still have access to the cockpit from the starboard stairs.

The cockpit offers an expansive social zone that features transom seating, a teak table, refrigerator, and plenty of storage. A four-panel sliding door opens up to the salon, and Sea Ray’s design team led by Tom Bucaccio created an open flow from the cockpit all the way through the salon to the helm station to starboard and galley to port. “One of the design elements of this boat is to integrate the salon and cockpit together,” Walker said. “There is a seamless transition without a high threshold for the salon door panels. A drainage trough is located in the cockpit sole to drain water overboard. The salon door panels stack to port creating a large opening.” The salon and the entire interior features walnut joinery and peppercorn inlays in areas such as the doors for a pleasant combination of textures. Leather pulls on cabinets and closets create a feeling of luxury yet are entirely useful. The salon layout starts with facing settees to port and starboard as you enter, with a two-seat bar to port amidships and a dining table and L-shaped settee to starboard. The fully stocked galley is to port opposite the lower helm station and features a sink, dual refrigerators/freezer, a wine cooler, and a unique pop-up storage area for your Sea Ray logo’d china. Natural light pours in from the large side windows.

The L650 Fly’s lower deck is accessed from the salon deck by a seven-step staircase and aided by a leather-wrapped handrail, and the landing area is bright due to atrium windows that let in the sun. Previous Sea Ray models were somewhat enclosed in this area, and the design team wanted to break from that with the L650 Fly. The lower deck features four staterooms and three heads. There is also a standard day head accessed from the swim platform for a total of four standard heads. The VIP stateroom in the bow offers a queen berth with private head, and LED rope lighting—a skylight and large hull windows create an airy feel.

Staterooms to port and starboard each feature twin berths and share a dayhead—side windows connect guests to the sea and again, allow in plenty of light. The full-beam queen master is located midship aft of the companionway. A large head offers dual sinks and a large rain-head type shower with more than 6 feet, 6 inches of headroom. Mosaic tiles decorate all the heads and extend into the showers.

Creating copious social zones was another goal of Sea Ray’s design team. The flybridge area is accessed via a port-side staircase and offers a variety of sunpad setups, couches and seats for relaxing. Covering the flybridge is a unique hardtop that can be configured for maximum or minimal shade—a telescoping sunshade deploys aft to offer cover for the aft seats. The foredeck bow area can be set up to be a huge sunpad or rearranged to offer a table and facing lounges.

Whether you’re going to operate the boat on your own or hire a captain to do the hard work for you, Sea Ray’s L650 Fly is a prime example of how luxury, technology and old-fashioned marine seaworthiness are combined to provide ease of use and peace of mind.

www.searay.com

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating December 2014

Yamaha 190 FSH Sport

In February 2015, Yamaha unveiled the world premiere of their 190 FSH Sport, a center console that equally combines the desire for cruising, family watersports and fishability.

This 19′ Sport model features a removable T-Top for shade and style over the center console, a completely customizable helm station, and a convertible backrest and leaning post for fishing convenience. The savvy storage solutions, impressive electronic options and transition from serious fishing to serious fun will draw the entire family to the water.

The 190 FSH Sport comfortably seats eight passengers and flaunts an attractive suede gray exterior. It suits anglers with an 18-gallon aerated livewell, Jet Wash raw water washdown system, trolling motor, and gunwale rod holders. Cruisers and watersports enthusiasts will appreciate the integrated swim platform with ladder, Jensen Marine Bluetooth stereo, insulated bow storage with cushion cover, additional seating with cooler and storage underneath, upgraded upholstery, and 360-degree sightlines to keep tabs on those in the water. Yamaha’s newest addition is sure to hit the mark with all onboard guests.

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Specifications
LOA: 19′ 2″
Beam: 8′
Draft: 16″
Weight: 2,150 lbs.
Fuel: 30 U.S. gals.
MSRP: $31,999

Contact
(800) 962-7926
yamahaboats.com

By Christine Carpenter

Hunt Harrier 25 Sport

This beauty handles like a high-end performance race car.

The only problem with the new Hunt Harrier 25 Sport—and this is a serious one—is that it’s addictive. Once you climb behind the custom wooden wheel and nudge the throttle forward, the boat just comes up on plane —no hump, no bump…nothing but steady power and speed. The mid-range acceleration is simply outstanding, and when you carve the first turn, it’s so much fun that you want to carve another, and then another. This latest Hunt is a combination of a Porsche 911 and the Energizer Bunny. The performance is so exhilarating that you just want to stay behind the wheel and keep on going. The fact that it’s a Hunt, with a C. Raymond Hunt deep-V hull and blue-water pedigree, is just icing on the cake.

The first thing I noticed about the new Harrier 25 Sport is the very cool-looking windshield. Somehow it’s a combination of classic/retro and high-tech, all wrapped into one. “We spent a lot of time on this,” said Peter Van Lancker as he put down a chamois while we talked. The hands-on company president was helping to wash the boat before our sea trial.

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Even though it’s owned by ScoutPartners—the same company that bought Hinckley Yachts a few years ago—Hunt still defines its own corporate culture by doing one thing, and they do it very well. They build a relatively small number of semi-custom New England-styled boats from 25 to 80 feet that are all designed by C. Raymond Hunt Associates using the performance, sea-conquering principles and deep-V hull developed by the legendary Ray Hunt more than 50 years ago. In case you missed this part of yachting history, Ray Hunt designed the iconic Bertram 31, the legendary Boston Whaler 13 and 17, and in his spare time, the Concordia yawl, arguably one of the prettiest sailboats of all time. All that goes to say that Hunt builds boats that are meant to be classics—not a lot of frills or bells and whistles here. These are solid ocean-going performers that will take you out⎯and bring you back⎯no matter what the conditions are off shore. That’s not to say that Hunt yachts don’t have a lot of built-in luxury and technology when appropriate. It’s just that with Hunt, first things come first.

As we headed down Narragansett Bay toward Newport, it was easy to see that the new Harrier 25 Sport takes advantage of its heritage. Indeed, it has the same hull with 24-degree deadrise at the transom as all previous Harriers. “We’ve built probably 1,000 Harriers,” Van Lancker said as we cruised into a 15-knot headwind. “We know we have a successful hull. What’s new is the style of the boat.” Above the waterline, Hunt redesigned the boat starting with its aggressive composite windshield and ending with the 3×7-foot sunpad in back, above the 380-hp Volvo gas engine (an upgrade from 320-hp gas Volvo that’s standard), paired to an OceanX stern drive. “We put the engine in back for better balance,” Van Lancker said. “And there’s no engine box.” There is, however, a supersized wraparound six-person back seat that starts behind the passenger seat on the port side and ends at the new wet bar with sink and fridge just aft of the driver’s seat on the starboard side—a great place for a group of friends or family to relax.

The real news about the Harrier 25 Sport is that less is more. There’s no exterior teak here. The boat is made to be used and enjoyed. “It’s a wash-and-wear boat,” Van Lancker says. Not even the wide swim platform is teak. Instead, it’s fiberglass with synthetic teak inserts. The cuddy cabin, which has a convertible V-berth and a manual head, has a faux teak and holly sole. All this adds up to a boat that manages to keep its traditional Down East looks while requiring minimal exterior maintenance. It can serve variously as a sport boat, a fishing boat, an overnighter, or as a water sports platform (it even has a retractable water ski pylon), and then you can put it away.

We were on Hull #1, so we wanted to see how the boat would perform. With three people on board and half a tank of fuel, we registered 41.5 knots going into the headwind at 5,250 rpm. But more than that, the attitude of the boat and the cruising comfort were remarkable, even in less-than-ideal conditions. “Look,” said Kristan McClintock, Hunt’s marketing director who was sitting all the way aft. “I’m perfectly dry.” Indeed, there was no spray or water anywhere inside the boat, a remarkable performance considering the 15-knot headwind. The boat’s flared bow, lifting strakes and hard chines managed to deflect all the spray. Turning around and going downwind we picked up another 1.2 knots of speed, but the comfort level remained the same. I put the boat through a series of tight turns at speed, and Volvo’s twin, three-bladed counter-rotating props did their thing, biting in, responding instantly to the throttle. Over the years I’ve driven Hunts from the Florida Keys up to the Reversing Falls at the top of the Bay of Fundy in Saint John, New Brunswick, so I pretty much knew what to expect. Still, the Harrier 25 Sport’s performance was both impressive and memorable. I definitely did not want to go back to the dock.

Hunt offers a variety of engine options on this boat, from the standard 320-hp Volvo gas stern drive up to a 430-hp Volvo gas stern drive, a 300-hp Volvo diesel stern drive or even a 300-hp Yamaha outboard. With any of these, you know you’re getting one of the most time-tested hulls in the world. But with the new Harrier 25 Sport, you also know you’ll be getting time to use and enjoy the boat. It’s a different approach, but if the idea is to maximize the fun time and to minimize the not-so fun time, it’s definitely the way to go.

By Peter A. Janssen, Southern Boating December 2014

Ribcraft 9.0

Ribcraft 9.0 is Not Just for Black Ops

Whether island hopping, as a yacht tender or on a secret mission… This boat turns heads.

The first time I saw the new RIBCRAFT 9.0 tied up at the Eastern Yacht Club dock in Marblehead, Massachusetts, I thought to myself, “Now this is one wicked-looking boat.” With its entirely black and dark gray exterior and rows of military-type seats, it looked ready to carry the Navy Seals on their next commando raid. “This is definitely a head-turner,” said RIBCRAFT USA President Brian Gray as we climbed aboard. But this highly customized RIB was not ordered by the Pentagon for use in a war zone. Instead, it was built for a Colorado entrepreneur who will base it at his vacation home in the British Virgin Islands (B.V.I.). After only a few turns, I can attest that he’ll not only turn heads in the B.V.I., but he’ll also have a lot of fun driving it.

From my experience there’s no doubt that the new RIBCRAFT does attract attention. Indeed, as we shot out of Marblehead Harbor on a blustery pre-winter day, the few commercial fishermen who were out all paused to take a look—a fast look, as it turned out. Once we were in the Atlantic I nudged the throttles forward, and the twin 300-hp Yamaha four-stroke outboards powered the boat up to 59 mph, a particularly impressive performance considering we were in choppy two-to-three-foot seas and a biting wind. (Gray said he’s hit 61 mph on a calmer day.)
Even more impressive than the speed was the ride. In conditions where a traditional boat would be pounding and throwing spray, the ride on the RIBCRAFT was soft and calm. “The rougher the better to test this type of boat,” Gray said. The deep-V fiberglass hull—with a 20-degree deadrise at the transom—cut through the water, while the wide inflatable tubes softened the usual between-wave pounding and deflected the spray. At top speed, the ride was both quiet and dry and fun. Pulling back to only 45 or 50 mph I put the RIBCRAFT into a series of sharp turns, and the boat responded instantaneously and under total control. But the real fun is in the acceleration, and that’s nothing less than spectacular. Nudge the throttles and the boat takes off immediately and without any apparent effort. The full windshield on the custom helm console protects you from the wind, and the Yamahas are quiet, so you don’t fully realize how fast you’re going until you glance at the Garmin GPS on the panel—you can’t say that about a lot of boats. “This boat has the performance of a Ferrari and the strength of a Hummer,” Gray said proudly.

This 9.0 model is the largest RIBCRAFT made in the U.S.—the British factory makes a 42-footer, and the company says it’s for the serious offshore user. All told, RIBCRAFT makes eight models from 15’7″ to this one at 29’7″ in a small factory in rural New Hampshire and then assembles them in its headquarters in an industrial complex in Marblehead. The company makes fast rescue boats for the Navy as well as RIBs for other government and law enforcement agencies, tour operators and commercial users, plus yacht clubs and recreational buyers who use them as tenders, runabouts, dive boats, or their primary ocean-going vessels. “There’s a growing trend to use commercial-grade boats for recreational use,” Gray explained. For example, Secretary of State John Kerry bought a 25-foot RIBCRAFT to use at his summer home in Nantucket, and the company is more than happy to customize a boat for each owner’s wishes.

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This particular boat was built to order for Curt Richardson, an experienced boat owner whose website calls him “a serial entrepreneur.” Richardson formed his first firm when he was just 21-years-old—a plastic tubing company. Richardson built a prototype for OtterBox, a waterproof cell phone case, in his garage in 1998 and is now the chairman and founder of the company which claims to be “the #1 best-selling case for smartphones in the U.S. and Canada.” He is also an avid fisherman and owns a Buddy Davis 48 and a Buddy Davis 61, which are part of his charter sport fishing business Ocean Surfari, with bases in both St. Thomas in the U. S. Virgin Islands and Soper’s Hole on Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. Richardson owns Little Thatch Island off Soper’s Hole and will keep his new RIBCRAFT there.

Actually, this is Richardson’s second RIBCRAFT. He bought a used 7.8 model (25’7″) three years ago for his wife and says she loves it. “This one is my boat,” he said in a phone interview from his home in Fort Carson, Colorado. Gray said Richardson was “very involved” in designing it and wanted the military look but also wanted a comfortable ride, even when the Caribbean wind kicks up and he takes out a lot of friends.

Richardson’s boat has four rows of two seats each, plus three more seats across the back. But the first two rows of seats plus the entire helm console, including the windshield and the hardtop, are built as one unit by Shockwave with a suspension system to reduce shock and vibration. This is Shockwave’s Integrated Control Environment (ICE); it starts with a welded stainless steel chassis that attaches to the deck and includes energy-absorbing foam and adjustable shock absorbers. In this system you sit rather than stand, even when you’re driving the boat. The seats have built-in armrests and foot supports and you strap yourself in with seat belts. The result is that you feel very secure, even at top speed or in tight turns, and you don’t have to suffer through any hard landings. “Your entire body moves together,” said Gray. “Nothing jars. You get off the boat even after many hours and you don’t feel tired.” RIBCRAFT uses the ICE system in boats it builds for the Navy with special compartments to store weapons. Richardson passed on this.

He didn’t skimp, however, on anything else. The 21-inch-diamater Hypalon tubes with seven chambers and pressure relief valves are standard. But then there are the twin counter-rotating Yamahas, the ICE suspension system and the extra rows of seats, twin Garmin screens on the black helm station with GPS, radar, AIS, depth sounder and autopilot, plus two VHFs, FLIR, a SatCom, underwater LED lights, a freshwater washdown for the windshield, even a rear view mirror. The base price for a RIBCRAFT 9.0 without engines is $111,656. This one cost $450,000.

Richardson is delighted with his new boat. “I like to travel around the B.V.I. with my friends, go to dinner up in North Sound,” he said. “You can get a short chop there but this is a dry boat. And with the night vision I don’t have to worry about visibility. The boat’s super safe, fast, and I can use it in any weather. I think it’s great.”

SPECIFICATIONS
LOA: 29′ 7″
Beam: 10′ 3″
Draft: without engines 22″
Weight: without engines 3,395 lbs.
Deadrise: 24º/23º V-bottom
Fuel: 135 U.S. gals.
Power: 2x 300-hp Yamaha four-stroke outboards
Cruise/Top Speed: 45/61 mph
Price Base: $111,656 without engines
MSRP: $450,000 for this boat as configured

CONTACT
RIBCRAFTUSA, LLC
88 Hoods Lane
Marblehead, MA 01945
(781) 639-9065
sales@ribcraftusa.com
ribcraftusa.com

OTAM Millennium 80 Open

OTAM, an Italian boat builder with 60 years of powerboating experience, launched their new Millennium 80 Open, whose sophisticated design turns heads on the water. OTAM is known for powerful performance, and the Millenium 80 Open lends to that aspect while combining luxury and elegance. This sporty megayacht starts with the Fabio Buzzi hull shape, and yacht designer Alberto Mancini emphasized speed with a very protective windscreen that wraps around both sides of the cockpit and terminates with the large carbon air intakes, clearly derived from automotive lines.

The deck layout takes advantage of the external cockpit with a facing twin C-shaped settee that can be covered with the Bimini (or an optional hardtop), and a fully equipped double bar complete with icemaker, refrigerator and grill for day cruising or longer voyages. The spacious sun bathing area is astern above the tender garage, with another sunpad zone on the foredeck. The interior is available in three- or four-cabin layouts, with the owner’s suite astern and the VIP suite forward.

The roll bar is color coordinated with the hull scheme offered in five custom color variations—Racing Blue, Maranello Red, Titanium, Black and Gold Grey. If these five don’t peak your interest, full custom color schemes are available. All the outdoor upholstery uses materials especially designed to integrate with the tones of the chosen hull color scheme. Top speed is 50 knots, but OTAM is still experimenting with propellers and confident that a new set of Rolla propellers will take the speed up to 55-58 knots in the future.

Specifications
LOA: 86.66′
Beam: 19.84′
Draft: 4.6″
Weight: 120,000 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 39,361 / 264 U.S. gals.
Top/Cruise Speed: 54 / 50 knots
MSRP: Inquire

Information
Antonio Caviglia
Sales & Marketing Director
Via Cibrario, 2
16154 Sestri Ponente (Genova) – Italia
tel: +39 010 60 190 212
cell:+39 348 3381147
fax: +39 010 60 190 227
a.caviglia@otam.it
otam.it

By Christine Carpenter, Southern Exposure

Marlow Mainship 37

Dependable Design

The Marlow Mainship 37’s rugged construction and systems are based on proven big-yacht techniques.

David Marlow’s considerable influence is clearly evident aboard the new Marlow Mainship 37, a speedy, seaworthy trawler introduced last year. His company bought the Mainship brand in 2012 and the MM37 exhibits the Marlow design pedigree that is both easily apparent—and purposely hidden—throughout the vessel.

Some of Marlow’s good ideas you just can’t miss. For example, the MM37 features a folding stern bulkhead that drops outward toward the water or dock. This was a big hit at the 2014 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show because it was very simple to board the boat. The stern fold-down opens up the cockpit for easy access and more space, and when in the down position it makes for a nice platform to rest a chair or two. “It makes the stern more useful and offers more space to move about in the cockpit and swim platform,” says Greg Emerson, director of sales for Marlow Mainship. “It raises and lowers electrically and there’s a control station for remote operation.”

Marlow Yachts, the company David Marlow founded in 2000, rank among the most efficient and seaworthy recreational vessels on the water. When Marlow brought both Mainship and Hunter Sailboats into the fold, there was no doubt that Marlow’s ideas would make it into new builds, and that’s exactly what has happened with the MM37. The electric stern is an in-your-face feature that makes sense, but the really interesting upgrades take more investigation to discover.

For example, the Mainship 37 has a dry bilge, a concept brought over from the Marlow Yachts line. All water that accumulates inside the vessel runs to a common drain and off the boat. “Whether it is condensation, air-conditioning run off, sinks, or faucets, it all runs to this common drain,” Emerson explains. “This set of pumps (located under the forward V-berth) moves the water overboard. The mindset is that any time you have water in the bilge you are creating an opportunity for mold and mildew to grow. If the bilge stays dry you have less of an opportunity for that to happen.”

Another significant improvement that takes a little bit of looking involves the type of gelcoat used on all new 2015 Mainship models. “We changed to a better gelcoat with better production qualities, improved blister protection and less chance of cracking over time,” Emerson continues. “The new gelcoat is oyster white and you can see how much better it looks overall when comparing it to another boat.”

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Mainship vessels also now feature wood-free construction, as all the balsa coring in the hull has been replaced by Nida-Core. “Nida-Core is stronger in addition to not retaining water,” Emerson maintains. “We tested the panels that included balsa and found they would separate in shock tests, while Nida-Core would not.”

Building strong, seaworthy boats is certainly a tradition with the Marlow boats family, and the 37 Pilot carries a CE Category A rating, the highest designation possible. The 37 Pilot isn’t going to set any speed records, but most owners of this type of vessel are more interested in comfortable cruising than top-end speed. The 37 Pilot we reviewed, however, was outfitted with twin Yanmar 220-horsepower diesel engines, an upgrade from the single Yanmar 320-horsepower diesel that comes standard. Not only does the twin-engine setup provide a redundant safety factor over a single powerplant, but it also makes a top end speed of more than 26 mph.

Comfortable conversation areas abound aboard the MM37, beginning with the cockpit/transom area. Whether you’re lounging in a chair or just lying out on the teak deck or swim platform, the aft end of the MM Pilot puts you in touch with the outdoors while having all the shipboard comforts within easy reach. A hot-water washdown is in a starboard compartment off the transom, so it’s easy to rinse off after a swim.

Moving forward into the salon, the teak theme continues with the flooring and woodwork. The salon features facing settees to port and starboard with a table and flat-screen TV that raises and lowers into a starboard console. Large windows let in lots of natural light, and further forward is the helm station to starboard with a twin-seat setup looking toward a wide dash. A large steering wheel is in a good position for the pilot, while the dash itself offers an abundance of room for one or two multifunction displays. “The dash can be configured however the customer wants it,” adds Emerson. “Some people want a lot of electronics in front of them, some don’t, so we leave it up to them.”

The MM37 features a light-filled open portside galley, two staterooms and two heads below. Customers have requested variations off this theme, such as a single master stateroom in the V-berth bow, with the second stateroom changed over to a dinette. Another option is to turn the second head completely into a full shower. “Again, just like the dash electronics there are many ways we can customize the boat,” Emerson states. “And I know the amount of light and openness of our galley down design will surprise people. You don’t feel claustrophobic down here at all. The open galley is achieved by moving the windshield forward and not covering the top of the galley space.”

The galley features lots of storage as well as a full complement of appliances you would expect in a boat of this class, including a refrigerator, microwave, stove, and oven. A dual sink and countertops offer plenty of work space for whipping up meals. Opposite the galley to starboard is the guest cabin with a double berth, and forward of that is the dayhead. All the way forward is the master stateroom, with a double V-berth and private head. All closets are cedar-lined and the teak joinery adds to the boat’s elegant feel in the cabins.

“You’ll notice that even on a warm day it’s cool in this boat,” Emerson says. “That’s because there are three 10,000 BTU air-conditioning units. The boat also has a 7.5kW generator, which is enough to run the three units. Having three separate A/C units helps ensure you get the cooling you need throughout the boat. Each cabin has its own A/C controls so you’ll stay comfortable.”

The Mainship 37 Pilot is at the forefront of the new direction that David Marlow has set for the company. Emerson had been with Luhrs Marine Group for 34 years—the previous owners of Mainship and Hunter—and says the future is bright. “It’s a great rebirth for this company. The quality and expectation level is beyond anything that I have seen over the 36 years I have been here. It’s exciting to learn how much people enjoy their Mainship boats, and we’re all proud of what we are doing here.

SPECIFICATIONS: LOA: 41’11”; Beam: 12’4″; Draft: 2’4″; Weight: 16,000 lbs.; Fuel/Water: 305/120 U.S. gals.; Standard Power: 1x Yanmar 8LV 320-hp diesel; Optional Power: 2x Yanmar 6BY3 220-hp diesels; Cruise/Top Speed: (w/twin engines): 15/28 knots; MSRP: Inquire; CONTACT: Marlow Mainship; Route 441, P.O. Box 1030; Alachua, Florida 32616; (800) 771-5556; mainshipsales@marlow-hunter.com; mainship.com

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating February 2015

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