Virtually every manufacturer of high-end vessels has one name on board and that’s Stidd. The manufacturer of high-quality helm seats is the recognized leader in this category with seats custom-configured to almost any application. Stidd captain’s chairs are even used by boats in the Deadliest Catch King crab-fishing fleet. More...
Ken Abrams was out for a cruise on his 44’ (13.41 m) Kadey-Krogen when the boat’s generator started having issues. He was using it to power the air conditioning system and it was a hot day. Instead of pulling anchor and heading to port to schedule a visit to his mechanic, Abrams took his tablet into the engine compartment, logged onto Vessel Vanguard Pro and followed the step-by-step instructions to replace the generator’s impeller. Learn more about the value of subscribing to this service. More...
Chris-Craft’s Launch 31 GT is probably the finest-crafted American boat in class. Her fiberglass compound curves, reverse sheer, tumblehome and other design elements that make her so pleasing to the eye often require molds within molds. Overall, she is a work of fine sculpture. Curved lines and mahogany accents harken back to the company’s gleaming wooden boats. She must be seen to be appreciated. To request a test by Capt. Steve,click here. To see our report, click here...
We would normally reserve a conversation about a boat’s construction for a Test Video introduction, but on the Outer Reef 700, it makes sense. The boat is built with eggcrate-truss construction that reduces the number of bulkheads required. Note above that the boat’s salon is devoid of load-bearing bulkheads. It makes the 700 feel larger than her overall length of 71’5” (21.77 m). She’s also finely crafted inside. More...
Westport says its new 125 (38 m) retains all of the manufacturer’s standards of quality yacht construction, finish and design. She also advances the use of space and cruising capabilities with a raised pilothouse design. The 125 has accommodations for up to 10 guests with a master suite on the main deck and a crew of up to six including the captain. Powered by twin 2,600 hp MTU 16V2000 M96L engines, she has an estimated maximum speed of 25 knots and a cruise of 20. To see more details at the Westport website, click here...
CL Yachts is offering a new interior package for its CLB88 in addition to the darker décor used on the first hull. The lighter Positano palette consists of softer greys and light oaks and was created by Jozeph Forakis. The Milan-based designer also worked on the yacht’s original design and the original interior package, Milano, which is dominated by teak and walnut. More...
The Performance Vent System uses plugs to control venting the engine’s exhaust gases.
The Performance Vent System, designed and patented by Mercury Marine, is a management system of the exhaust gases that exit from the propeller's hub. It lets a user control the venting of the propeller blades to optimize the acceleration for quick planing. More...
Yamaha’s new JetBlaster personal watercraft has a seat, but the manufacturer says it’s designed for standup, freestyle riding. The 10’4” (3.14 m) machine has raised lightweight handlebars and aft foot chocks that help position the rider. It also has custom-tuned electric trim on the left handlebar that controls the jet nozzle to dial in the ride. For blastoff-style acceleration, trim it down and pull the trigger on the right handlebar. More...
SBC’s Robalo R317 is available for a test drive in Sarasota, FL.
Having trouble getting a test drive in a 30' (9.1 m) plus dual console? Dealer backorders have almost made them a thing of the past. But why pay $240,000 or more for a boat you haven’t even experienced? If you’re thinking about buying a Robalo R317 or any other dual console brand in this size range, you could be doing yourself and your family a huge favor by taking a test drive on one of the best on the market. Use it as a benchmark. Sovereign Boat Club’s Robalo R317 is available in Bradenton, FL. It costs just $450 for a two-hour test drive to cover the captain, fuel, insurance, etc. By appointment only. Email: here or text/call: 727-200-3474.
Photo Of The Day
Left to right: First, two of the unsung heroes of BoatTEST – Kurt Rotter and Dan Carney, videographers who have been shooting and editing our videos from the beginning in 2000. Co-founder Jeff Hammond and the man who needs no introduction – the one and only Capt. Steve. This picture is taken after the close of the 2022 Palm Beach Boat Show. Stay tuned for video reports from the show.
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