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$4.95
VOLUME 27 NUMBER 6
1121 Invicta Dr., Unit 2, Oakville, ON L6H 2R2 2nd Class Registration Number #40010957
The 26sd-wss comes from a full line of hand-crafted Cobalt models, one of which is precisely matched to your wishes.
We just amplify the peaks
life already gives you.
The 26sd-ws arrives eager
to be precisely the boat
you want it to be.
The Cobalt Water Sports Series (WSS) stands
fully prepared to fulfill demands of wakeboarding,
wakeskating, or any and all water sports enthusiasts. The 26 Sport Deck enhanced with the WSS
Package provide a picture perfect wake shape.
Ready with all the wide-open spaces of a deckboat,
primed with all the quickness to plane and controlled stability of a sportboat. The standard swim
step and Sof-Trac mat make entering and exiting
the water comfortable and convenient. The 26sdwss is every bit as much about serious water sports
as about a leisurely cruise with family and friends.
Memories are made on the weekends, and the WSS
Series from Cobalt delivers weekends
chocked full of smiles.
Design Your Dream at
www.CobaltBoats.com
34
Story and photos by Dave Vedder
<test annual 2013>
subhead
B
contents
features
TEST TEAM
Meet our test team members.
34
TEST ANNUAL 2013
86
LIFE AFLOAT
Out test team reports on over 30 boats.
22
<marine power
2013>
4
Power Boating Canada | Volume 27 Number 6
On The Cover:
Premier’s New Grandview
Bombay
What’s changed in the past five years?
columns
6
10
12
14
16
18
20
28
85
86
$4.95
32
MARINE POWER 2013
Here’s what the engine manufacturers
released this past year, and what to look
forward to in 2013.
VOLUME 27 NUMBER 6
22
PUB PAGE
ASK THE EXPERT
FACTS OF FISHING
TECHNOLOGY
LIFELINE
ELECTRONICS
GEAR GALLERY
MAINSTREAM
AD INDEX
LIFE AFLOAT
20
<gear gallery>
www.powerboating.com
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©2012 BRP US Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®™ Trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.
Join the conversation.
PBC PUBLISHERS PAGE
bill taylor
THERE LOTS
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6
W
Change for the better!
elcome to our
Annual Test
Issue, our 27th
annual to be precise! We are now
two years into
our second twenty-five years in
this wonderful, exciting and nevera-dull-moment industry! Power
Boating Canada continues to
evolve and adapt to bring you our readers - the biggest and best,
the latest and greatest, and sometimes we even deliver on the less
known hidden gems. I’m once
again proud to say in this issue
we’ve got them all!
We begin with our popular columnists
once again imparting a piece of their wisdom and experience, shared in an insightful and lighthearted way to help you make
boating for you and your family better.
Stephen Horsfall visits why we need to
do a drive-off inspection each year in his
Ask The Expert column. Mark King’s Lifeline
column heads for the on-board library to
do an inventory of what every good study
should have aboard. Cam McRae is always
chasing the story behind the story in his
Technology column and this time shines
the light on Lehr’s up and coming propane
outboard. Bill Jennings takes a look ahead
at forward facing sonar in his Electronics
column. In Facts of Fishing, Dave Mercer
gives us an anglers casting test. Hey, we all
could use the practice.
Then in our Marine Power Review 2013
we take an in-depth look at the engine
manufacturers and what they are offering
for the coming season. Nearly every manufacturer released a new product in 2012
or plans to in early 2013, and we’ve got
the scoop! There are some definite gamechangers for sure. We also tell you what
models from which engine builders took
home awards from the industry.
Each year our Test Team – see more
about them on page 32 – seek out the best
new hull designs, new technological developments, and design innovations that the
boat manufacturers produce. We then test
it, try it, push it to the limit, make our notes
and come back to the office and write it
up. This season we bring you a mix of new
boats from some manufacturers that you’ve
never heard of before, a timeless design
that’s survived the ages, and some old faithful’s. Download the app for your phone,
and then click on the QR code beside each
test to go directly to the manufacturers
website for that particular model.
In closing out this issue our Editor reflects
back on his past five years at the helm and
on what’s changed since his first test issue
with us. It’s all change for the better!
So welcome to our sixth and final issue
in our twenty-seventh year of publication. I invite you to turn the jumbo format
pages, enjoy the large photos and insightful
content just knowing that Power Boating
Canada will be here to bring you more great
tests and insightful journalism about our
Canadian boating lifestyle for many many
more years to come!
See you soon at the winter boat shows!
William E. Taylor
Publisher
bill@powerboating.com
The entry-level RX models are priced to sell. They offer the highest quality, most fuel
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2100 lbs
45 mph
44 mph
Weight (w/ std power)
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F OR A LIS T OF S TANDA R D FE ATUR E S, V I SI T STI N G R AYB O ATS. CO M /R X M O D ELS
pb_canada-2.indd 1
11/29/12 9:52 AM
Volume 27 Number 6
Publisher
Editoral Director
Editor
Design
“Summer’s here at last.
For me, that means
getting out on the boat!”
We need to have
insurance — that’s
a fact. Fortunately
we have a company
that takes care of
it all with absolutely no hassle. They look
after all of the details, we go play — that
seems fair!
We leave it to Skippers’ Plan because
they really do get it.
William E. Taylor
Bill Jennings
Brad Roberts
brad@powerboating.com
Giselle Bansal, Caroline Bowker, Tamara Taylor
Contributing Writers
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Steve Horsfall
Mark King
Cam and Diana McRae
Todd Taylor
Claude Leonard
John Gullick
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PBC ASK THE EXPERT
stephen horsfall
Drive-Off Inspection
Off-Season Sterndrive Maintenance.
D
uring the off-season is an excellent time to perform many routine
maintenance procedures on your
boat. It allows the luxury of time
without the usual week-end deadline hanging over you. Let’s face it, if the
choice is between greasing your u-joints and
taking that week-end get-a-way cruise in
mid-summer, service downtime will always
take a back seat to boating enjoyment unless
the problem is so severe that it leaves you
dead in the water.
One of the most important off-season service jobs every sterndrive owner should complete is to remove the drive from the boat for
a “drive-off inspection”. This routine is often
overlooked and as a result many major inseason service failures occur due to this omission. The procedure applies to Mercruiser,
Volvo, BMW and Cobra drives. If you have
ever had a premature failure of the universal
joints, gimbal bearing or engine drive coupling, it was probably been caused by the
lack of the annual “drive-off inspection”.
The reason for removing the drive annually is because there are several very important
parts hidden inside the bellows of the sterndrive which require regular service, i.e. greasing and inspection, to continue to operate
reliably. The only way to do this is to remove
the drive. Also once the boat is launched,
service to these items requires a haul-out,
which on a larger boat can add several hundred dollars to the bill even before labour
charges start to accumulate. Even worse, a
hole in a shift cable bellows could cause a
nasty leak in your boat that could have disastrous consequences if left unattended!
Once the drive is off, you should be looking for two things right off the bat, water
and oil. There should be neither water nor
oil in the u-joint bellows area. Water in this
area means a likely hole in the u-joint bellows, while oil means the drive has a leaking top main oil seal. Water will cause the
u-joints and the gimbal bearing to wear out
10
very quickly. A leaking upper drive seal will
cause oil level in the drive to drop significantly causing a massive and expensive upper
drive failure. You would not have discovered
either of these problems otherwise, so you
can see why this drive-off inspection is so
important.
If you found water, it is best to replace all
the bellows at the same time and replace the
gimbal bearing and the u-joints as a precaution. If you found oil, then at the very least
replace upper drive housing seals and check
all upper drive shaft bearings and gears.
Assuming no water or oil was found, you
should grease the u-joints and the gimbal
bearing, checking for rough spots and/or
replace if worn. This is also a good time to
check the splines in the u-joint shaft where it
goes into the coupling, looking for wear and
making sure it has a liberal coating of grease
on the splines. This will insure that the coupling will not wear out prematurely. If the
coupling fails it requires an engine removal
to replace the coupling. Check all other rubber pieces for deterioration and renew as
necessary.
Check the condition of all power trim
and tilt hoses. Look closely for signs of leakage at the hydraulic cylinders. Every one on
your boat will thank you come next summer.
Make sure you use a new gasket and o-ring
set before you re-install the drive and torque
all fasteners to specification.
Please also note: there are some very specific procedures to follow when removing
and installing the sterndrive which are covered in the owners and shop manuals for
these units. They should be followed to the
letter to insure that you do not break anything and to insure that the drive/shift controls function properly when re-assembled.
Also a word of caution: The drive is very
heavy, so a lifting apparatus is a good idea
or a couple of very strong friends. If you
do not have enough confidence to perform
this work, please leave it to a professional.
The charge will be relatively minor unless
anything major is found. Consider it a bargain compared to the alternate cost of a lost
weekend in the summer.
One way or another, get it done. A pro
can also check engine alignment at the same
time. It is easy to do when the drive is off,
but requires an expensive special tool.
All of this assumes you have already
done a proper winterizing of the engines
and drives, changed the engine oil and filter,
changed the gear oil in the drive, fogged the
engine with storage oil, stabilized the fuel
system and drained and winterized the entire
cooling system with antifreeze. Not to mention the head and the freshwater plumbing.
If you store your boat with a full service marina, ask them if they do a drive-off
inspection as part of their regular winterizing
routine. If not, ask to have it done. You will
not regret it! Got a question or
a problem?
Send me an e-mail at
stephen.horsfall@sympatico.ca
or fax me at 1-613-236-0700
PBC FACTS OF FISHING
dave mercer
The Casting Test
Can you hit the mark?
I
t’s hard to believe it but here we are
again, time for the Power Boating
Canada Test Issue. I have to be honest, before we go much further just the
simple word “test” runs chills up my
spine. I have basically spent the
majority of my life avoiding tests.
But thankfully this isn’t that kind
of test.
This test actually comes with all
the answers (thanks to the great
writers here at Power Boating
Canada), which, if you ask me
makes the whole test experience
a lot more pleasurable. Tests and
fishing basically just don’t go
hand in hand. Or should I say, they
haven’t gone hand in hand until
now. After reading this, I’m hoping
that will all change. Don’t worry –
I’m not going to ask you to write an
essay or even give you a multiple
choice test. This test is going to be
easy. This year, I want you to test
yourself to become a better angler.
It sounds simple but when you
think about it, it is something that
very few of us do. Fishing seems
to be one of the very few activities
that most participants go out and
take part in without actually investing much time or thought into how
to become successful at it. Let’s
compare golf for a minute. Long
before more golfers ever hit the
links, they probably try their hand
at mini-putt and then progress
to the driving range. The driving
range – what a great idea! An area
where golfers go to learn to hit the
ball better! If you ask me, the driving range
is a great idea. But have you every heard of
a casting range? Nope! Because there is no
such thing. Us anglers blindly go out without
any preparation, practice or thought, and rely
12
on one thing; one little four-letter word…L
U C K!! An angler relying on luck is basically
the equivalent of a golfer wildly swinging at
the ball and hoping that the wind blows it in
the hole. Forget the word ‘luck’ and stop try-
ing to get lucky because that really has to do
with a whole other topic.
Turn the odds in your favour by testing
yourself to become a better angler. The first
thing I want you to do is set up a casting
range. Believe it or not, the worst place to
learn to cast or even to practice to cast is on
the water. When you’re on the water you
are going to be focusing on trying to catch
fish. For this test, I want you solely focused
on becoming a more proficient and
skilled caster. The perfect spot to
set up a casting range is just about
anywhere that you have space - your
local park, your backyard, or even
your driveway. All you need is your
rod and reel, a practice plug or lure
with no hooks and some targets. As
far as targets go, they really don’t
need to be anything fancy. You can
use some plastic cups, or an old
Frisbee will do just fine. Once you
set up the targets its time to hit the
casting range. No different than our
buddy the golfer, you should line up
targets at different distances and go
to town!
Before taking this test many
anglers fancy themselves pretty
skilled at the art of casting. But once
they actually force themselves to get
a lure to land right in the center of
an eight-inch target, their opinion
quickly changes.
On the water many of us achieve
the ability to cast a long distance but
very rarely do we develop the kind
of pin-point accuracy that a little
time in the casting range will help
us achieve. Think of the last time you
were on the water and out of the
corner of your eye, you saw a fish
surface. The smart thing to do is to
cast to it. The problem is often times
if you are four feet away, you might
as well be forty feet away. A few hours in the
casting range will cut that four feet down to
four inches which ultimately, will equal a few
more fish. If you ask me, that’s a test worth
studying – and practicing - for. h
2012470 MD_Marine_PowerboatingCAN.pdf
1
12-12-17
9:34 AM
PBC TECHNOLOGY
cam mcrae
A Propane Outboard?
Propane, reeling ‘round my brain...
T
he search for alternate/cleaner
fuels has become an obsession for
any industry relying on the internal combustion engine. Although
automobiles have benefitted from
research into every conceivable possibility,
only some of that work has translated into
practical applicability for boats. We now
have successful electric boats and
the hybrid concept may work for sail
boats (wind charging). Diesel has
found its place, primarily in Europe.
But, any real progress has been limited to cleaner, more efficient gasoline engines.
Then, at last year’s Miami Boat
Show, an outfit called LEHR introduced propane outboards! The
2.5 and 5 horsepower motors are
the brainchild of eco-activist Capt.
Bernardo Herzer, who discovered
the benefits of propane power while
piloting a research vessel in the
frigid North Sea. Small engines on
board were converted to propane
in an attempt to improve dependability. Herzer, impressed by the
results, subsequently created LEHR
and began by marketing a propane
lawnmower and a string trimmer.
The 2.5 and 5 will find homes on
canoes, sailboats, dinghies and tenders. But, for me and for legions of
other boaters, marine power starts
at nine point nine. With that in mind I
phoned LEHR’s office in LA. After some
deliberation, the company spokesman
confirmed that a LEHR propane 9.9 will be
released no later than February’s Miami
Show. You read it here in PBC first!
Why propane? The simple answer might
be that there is lots of it. A simple hydrocarbon, C3H8, propane is a byproduct of
most natural gas and petroleum refining
processes. But, it’s also an excellent engine
14
fuel. Stored as a liquid at under 200 psi,
propane becomes a gas when released.
Since no vapourization is required, no carburetor is required. A simple metering system introduces the gas to the engine’s
intake. Perfect mixture, no choke, instant
one-pull start every time. It’s naturally high
octane - over 100 - so it will tolerate higher
compression ratios and readily produce
power. The gas burns cleanly and efficiently, releasing little in the way of toxic
fumes and minimal greenhouse gasses. In
North America alone, over half a million
lift trucks and tow motors burn propane
inside the confines of industrial buildings
where gasoline engines simply could not
be used. (The stink, by the way, is ethanethiol, added to the odourless gas to ensure
that its presence is unmistakable.)
Could propane be utilized for a stern
drive’s V8? Why not? Thousands of taxis
and private autos have been converted to
propane. And, consider that V8 engine’s
efficiency and emissions when the fuel
metering is under control of a sophisticated ECM.
Historically, propane has been rejected
as a boat fuel because it’s denser
than air, thus tending to seep down
into the bilge, creating the risk of
explosion. Capt. Bernardo insists
that modern plumbing, the closed
nature of a propane fuel system and
fail-safe valving eliminate the problem. I would add that fume detectors would be advisable, possibly
with an ignition interlock.
Fuel storage has also been targeted as a drawback for propane.
It’s easy to envision a sleek bowrider
carrying a bunch of barbecue canisters. But with propane’s relatively
low storage pressure, marine tanks
could be created out of aluminum or
light gauge stainless steel. They’d be
subject to some form of government
approval process, but it’s all do-able.
Ironically, I had never put much
thought to propane for boats until
this past fall when Diana and I visited
Volvo Penta’s Test Center. During a
discussion of the abuses suffered by
marine engines, the director, Capt.
Bob Crocker, pointed out the huge fork
lift the Center uses to pop the test boats
in and out. Operating in the same challenging environment as the boats, an earlier version with a gas engine gave them
nothing but maintenance and reliability
problems. A switch to propane power and
the problems went away. Crocker, the veteran boating expert, thought that propane
would be an ideal boat fuel. That’s my
story behind this story. h
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PBC LIFE LINE
mark king
Floating Library
Books you should have aboard.
I
n this month’s column, I want to wrap
up our conversation about paper
charts from the two previous issues of
this column in Power Boating Canada.
Building your
on-board library
and the Ottawa River, such instruction books
are an invaluable reference.
Many harbours in Canada have specific
regulations and rules, and if you are using
one of them you should have these rules on
board your boat. The St. Lawrence Seaway
publishes a guide for recreational boaters
that should be carried on board for reference
and read thoroughly before you attempt to
use any of the locks or approach any structures on the seaway.
You should have a copy of the latest
Canadian Coast Guard Safe Boating Guide
on board. It will point out new regulations or
equipment requirements.
Historic Canals also have a guide, a copy
of which is supposed to be on board any
vessel operating on these waterways. Some
of these publications are free and are now
downloadable from the internet.
As well, there are many privately printed publications that boaters will find useful.
First Aid booklets, fire fighting information,
local publications that describe areas where
you might be boating, and many more can
provide important and useful information.
Several companies publish locally based
magazines and locally produced charts and
guides that can help add to your knowledge
of the area where you are boating.
Finally, as explained in this column in
the past, you should have the publications
you need to manage your boat. Engine and
equipment manuals are chief among these.
With the latest up-to-date charts and the
latest nautical publications on board, you
should never have unfortunate navigational
misadventures. h
Somewhere, tucked away on any wellfound boat, is a library with charts and
publications that the boat should be carrying. Over the past two columns I have
provided a brief introduction to nautical
charts, how to read them, why you should
have them on board, and how they can be
used to protect your boat.
As well as nautical charts, boaters should
carry other publications on board that can
help them navigate wherever they happen
to be boating. Other publications are numerous. Among
the most useful are Small Craft
Guides and Sailing Directions
published by the Canadian
Hydrographic Service.
These publications offer
some overall background on
the area they cover which
includes typical weather
expectations through the
seasons, height of water
above sea-level, and a general description of the area.
Then they offer a detailed
account of what you will see
as you progress on your route
explaining in detail docks,
marinas, and other features of
significant interest and concern to boaters. They include aerial and
other photographs to help
illustrate the route. Especially
Before heading out, no matter what size or type of boat you are in, make sure that you have the latest nautical
on canals or narrow waterways
charts and publications for the area in which you are boating.
such as the St. Lawrence River
16
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PBC ELECTRONICS
bill jennings
Forward Sonar
Growing Technologies for Better Vision.
I
n our last commentary on sonar, we discussed depth sounder principles and
noted that while they make you aware
of what is beneath your boat, they do
not let you know what you are about
to drive over. Evolving technologies of
SONAR, (Sound Navigation and Ranging)
are changing this. So how might this translate to new electronics for you and me?
American scientists after WWII, began
researching sonar systems for the Navy.
During the 1950’s, Westinghouse (now
Northrop Grumman), produced some sidescan sonar systems for the military. A single
conical-beam transducer was mounted on
the side of research vessels, hence the name
side-scan. Next, a transducer was applied
to each side of the vessel, in order to cover
both sides of the vessel track. The “sidescan” emitted conical or fan-shaped pulses
toward the seafloor in a wide angle, perpendicular to the path of the sensor through
the water. The intensity of the acoustic
reflections from the seafloor of this fanshaped beam was recorded in a series of
cross-track slices, then stitched together,
along with forward direction and speed, to
form an image of the sea bottom.
The first commercial applications for
Sonar units date back to the mid-sixties,
when dual-frequency side-scan sonar was
used for various public projects. Sound
frequencies used in side-scan sonar range
from 100 to 500 kHz, the higher frequencies producing better resolution and the
lower, greater range. The term ‘Broadband’
refers to simultaneously transmitting several frequencies, or wider band of frequencies, from a single transducer, in order to
increase image accuracy. A shorter distance between the transducer and the
bottom produced a better image, so in
order to achieve optimum resolution in
deep water the side-scan transducers were
placed in a “towfish” and pulled by a “tow
cable”. Typically these side-scan sonars
18
search a swath 60 to 160 feet wide at
about two miles per hour, although other
ranges can be used depending upon the
size of the target object. Initially, commercial side-scan images were produced on
paper records. Now, data is stored on computer hard drives. Matching GPS location
information allows the searchers to return
to any point in the image for further investigation or recovery.
Sonar today has many commercial
applications; such as imaging large areas
of sea floor, detecting hazardous obstructions, monitoring pipelines and cables,
fisheries research and locating drowning
victims. More recently, developers recognized that a market existed for sounders
that could provide recreational boaters
with more information than simply the
depth of the water beneath their boat.
Having boated regularly in the Vancouver
area, I’ve always looked for technology
that could make boating safer in the loginfested coastal waters of BC. Advancing
technologies in the form of affordable forward looking sonar would provide valuable information for all boaters. Affordable
‘FLS’, or ‘Forward Looking Sonar’, apply the
same principles as commercial sonar, but
point the fan shaped pulses forward, so
that pleasure craft can learn about potential problems ahead. This is welcome news
for those who ply the BC coast as well
as many others who explore unfamiliar
waters in other parts of Canada.
Unfortunately, the recreational FLS units
on the market to date, have been best suited for buyers with modest expectations.
One reason is that FLS is only able to register forward images that are within five times
the distance to the bottom before encountering bottom return interference, so if you
were in 30‘ of water, the unit would only
record 150’ ahead. But even when forward
objects are within range, the electronic processing of compiling detailed images, from
what is under the boat, is much easier to
do than shoot clear images of what you are
about to drive over.
Navico is currently the world’s largest marine electronics company, and is
the parent company to Lowrance, Eagle,
Northstar, Simrad and B&G. In Canada,
Navico products are distributed and
serviced through CMC Electronics, in
Montreal. Each of these well known companies are working together to develop
recreational FLS systems. Other companies active in Sonar development include,
Raytheon, EdgeTech, CMax, Imagenex,
Sonatech Inc., WESMAR, Marine Sonic
Technology, EDO Corp, EchoPilot, and
Deep Vision.
Two currently available examples of
affordable units are the “Ultrascan” from
Interphase and the “Sonar Engine”, SE-200.
The Ultrascan claims a forward range of
1,200’ and a depth of 600’ for a cost of
around $5,000. The SE-200 ‘black box’, will
plug into existing chart plotters, radars or
VGA flat panel displays to add FLS to your
existing navigation electronics and cost
even less.
But if you want more from your electronics than to impress friends with a helm
full of screens, you need to be specific on
the application for the electronic device
you are purchasing. Is it for fishing or
increased knowledge of the sea bottom?
Is it for offshore use, or inland waters?
Presently, I would define FLS technology
as an imperfect technology that is currently in transition. Therefore, be sure to
insist that the specialist who sells you a
unit also guarantees that it will meet up to
your expectations. And if you are like me,
it needs to be easy to operate, so that you
do not have to go back to school, or read
volumes of manuals before turning it on.
For most of us, the best plan might still be
to have your first mate on the bow with a
good pair of binoculars. h
Boat insurance.
It’s what we do!
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PBC gear gallery
50 AMP Smartplug Now Approved
With its 30 amp products already earning ETL certification,
SmartPlug’s 50 amp connector and inlet have passed all
required testing for product safety certification by Intertek
Testing Services. They are now listed as ETL certified products. This opens the door for Canadian boaters to fit their
vessels with SmartPlug’s 50 amp products.
Intertek is the leading international provider of independent inspection, testing, and certification services. The ETL
Listed Mark is proof of a product’s compliance to meet US
and Canadian safety standards. Similar to UL, Intertek is an
OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) recognized NRTL and is accredited as a Testing Organization and
Certification Body by the Standards Council of Canada. The SmartPlug connector and inlet protect against the
leading causes of fire and electrocution, loose connections
and overheating. The unique sleeve configuration nests the
plug and inlet together, making aligning the pins a snap. Any
pressure or force is absorbed by the assembly’s body, not the
electrical pins. SmartPlug is effortless to orient and connect,
even in the dark.
For more information visit www.smartplug.com.
Compact Diesel Generator
An ideal marine generator creates plenty of power without
taking up much precious space onboard. The efficient Entec
diesel generator, built by MasPower, answers this call. It is
available from Mastry Engine Center.
The compact 4.2 kW genset is driven by a 3,600 rpm direct
injection Farymann diesel engine, a name synonymous with
robust German engineering. A high peak capacity handles
large initial draw demands like air conditioning.
Many unique features on the Entec genset are designed
for a long service life and ease of use. It is fresh water cooled,
with a heat exchanger containing a cupronickel tube bundle
and removable end caps for easy maintenance. A pre-lube
start function prevents damage from dry starts. In an emergency, the genset can be engaged with a hand crank.
At 170 lbs. and just 13” W x 20” L x 18.5” H, the small Entec
unit fits nicely in tight spaces below deck. An auto safety
shutdown system, remote control panel, 20’ wiring harness,
hand crank and oil drain pump come standard. Options
include a sound enclosure, remote gauge panel, custom
control panels and harnesses, and anti-siphon break kits. For
more information visit www.mastry.com.
20
Two Lights in One
There’s no need to install two
separate lighting fixtures with the
Perko clear back utility light. For
the cost of operating one lamp,
boaters can illuminate two areas
while conserving precious mounting space.
Perko’s Fig. 1149 clear back
utility or courtesy light shines
both inside and outside the
mounting location. This makes it
ideal for brightening small, hardto-light areas such as within center consoles, storage lockers, cabinets and electronics boxes. When
properly installed on a vertical
surface, the lamp directs 80% of
its illumination downward, making for low glare operation.
Expertly finished in either
chrome-plated brass or stainless
steel, the light features a backing crafted from sturdy clear polymer. At only 3” in diameter and 1”
in depth, it takes up little space. Installation requires cutting a
2-1/8” diameter hole, and the light
mounts with #8 screws.
The Perko Fig. 1149 utility light
comes equipped with a 12V bulb,
but with a bulb change is adaptable to 24V or 32V. It retails for
around $65. Spare parts available include the socket assembly,
mounting flange and lens with
gasket. Perko offers a five-year
warranty on its products. The
company has proudly manufactured all its marine lights and
hardware in the U.S. for over 100
years. For more information visit
www.perko.com.
Volume 27 Number 6 | Power Boating Canada
21
2013 MARINE P
TURN SLUG
S
What’s new in marine propulsion? Lots! Nearly every manufacturer has
introduced something new for the coming year. We are not just talking about
a minor little tweek or some fancy new graphics treatment. No way! Rather, we
are talking about game-changing improvements and evolutions over previous
versions of both outboards and sterndrive powerplants, in both gas and
alternative fuels. In this feature, Power Boating Canada shines the spotlight
on the highlights of who did what to which engines. It’s pretty exciting!
YAMAHA MARINE
F
or 2013 Yamaha made some significant
improvements and technically advanced
changes to their product offerings. In late
October, they released an all-new 200hp fourstroke outboard – the F200. This new fourcylinder 2.8-liter engine has a 16-valve dual
overhead camshaft (DOHC) powerhead, and
is equipped with Yamaha’s Variable Camshaft
Timing System (VCT), which delivers quicker
acceleration and strong midrange power, yet it
weighs only 487 pounds - making it the lightest
200hp outboard on the market. It will be available
in either digital electronic (May 2013) or manual
controls (March 2013) and uses regular 87 octane
fuel to produce all 200 horsepower.
The V MAX SHO family gets a baby brother with
the release of the all new V MAX SHO 150 outboard.
Yamaha claims this four-stroke, four valves per cylinder, 2.8 litre 150hp outboard outperforms even
their own two-stroke VZ150 HPDI model.
The mid-range outboard models - F50, F60,
high-thrust T50, T60 and F60 Jet models - also
received total facelifts with cowls that now match
the rest of the line. Yamaha also released a new
9.9hp portable outboard with improved storage
and carrying dynamics.
22
The company’s much anticipated game-changer – a joystick control for outboards - was also
introduced to the media in late October 2012, as
a joint project with Volvo Penta. Yamaha’s new
Helm MasterTM control system is more than just
a joystick. It is a fully integrated boat control
system with a new electronic steering system,
throttle and shifting controls, an electronic key
system and a joystick controller. The system will
be available in the spring of 2013 and at present
at least is slated for OEM’s only (not the repower
market unfortunately) and initially for dual or
triple engines 225hp and up. Helm Master TM
will be released to the public at the 2013 Miami
International Boat Show.
Yamaha’s outboard line includes a total of fortyfour engines, including thirty-six four-stoke jet and
propeller models from 2.5hp up to 350hp, and eight
two-stroke propeller models (6hp to 90hp) which
the company says they will remain committed to
until they are government regulated or mandated
out of the two-stroke market. You’ll find Yamaha
outboards as OEM equipment on significantly more
transoms for the 2013 season.
For more information visit
www.yamaha-motor.ca
B
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Advanced fuel management,
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Optional built-in,
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Newfoundland (709) 726-2422
email navcommsales@cmcelectronics.ca
www.cmcelectronics.ca
23
2013 marine POWER SPOTLIGHT
TURN SLUG
Mercury
150 HP
MERCURY MARINE
Riding the wave of popularity of their all new
150hp four-stroke outboard from last year,
Mercury this past July announced they were
starting production of a second-generation
8.2L sterndrive engine that is quieter at cruising speed thanks to an air-induction silencer;
easier to maintain with fluid reservoirs more
visible and accessible; and easier to install for
OEMs. It became available in both sterndrive
and inboard versions with DTS, Sea Core and
Axius options this past August.
The rest of the sterndrive lineup remains
unchanged with the 3.0L and 4.3L engines still
being available next season in either TKS or
MPI catalyzed versions. The larger sterndrives
above 5 litres are now only available in catalyzed versions. The Merucry inboard line consists of four models from the 5.7L Horizon to
the 8.2L H.O., and all come with DTS. The diesel
lineup has three sterndrive models - QSD 2.0,
2.8, and 4.2 – and three inboard models – TDI
1.9, 3.0 and 4.2.
In outboards, the big news came in the form
of another game-changer: Mercury’s release
of their outboard joystick technology this past
fall. The official public release will occur this
coming February at the Miami International
Boat Show, but the media got a sneek peek at
24
pre-production models at the Ft. Lauderdale
Boat Show (see Power Boating Canada 28-1 issue
for a special hands-on test report). The technology – a combination of the Axius system and
the independent hydraulic steering for each
Verado engine - is currently scheduled to be
available approximately June 2013. At present,
the joystick system will be an option on new
models of Verado 250hp and 300hp models.
Older Verado models cannot be retrofitted.
For now, it’s for OEM installs only, but Kevin
Hellman, Associate Product Manager, Controls
and Rigging, told me that “…selected dealers
will also be able to source it for full repowers.”
The four-stroke Verado line consists of three
six-cylinder engines from 225hp to 300hp;
and three four-cylinder models from 150hp
to 200hp. The two Pro Four Stroke models, at
250hp and 300hp, both run on the same fuel
as the Verado 300 (91 octane is recommended, but using 87 octane won’t compromise
warranty coverage).
The OptiMax line of 16 different direct
injection engines is vast. The 1.5L powerhead
comes in four configurations from 75hp to 125
hp; the 2.5L powerhead’s 135hp and 150hp
step it up a notch; while the 3.0L powerheads’
three incarnations from 200hp to 250hp complete the line. The OptiMax engines have
consistently lead the industry in power, fuel
efficiency, reliability, and versatility tests.
There are now eight OptiMax Pro engines
from 115hp to 250hp.
Completing the four-stroke outboard line are
an additional twenty-five engines ranging from
the 2.5hp portable to the all new 150hp introduced last season.
Mercury Marine received 2012 NMMA CSI
Awards in the outboard, sterndrive and inboard
categories last year making them the only
engine manufacturer to win CSI awards in multiple categories.
www.mercurymarine.com
two-stroke outboards inline models from
25hp up to 90hp. In this same power range,
Evinrude also offers a 55hp multi-fuel engine,
and two commercial engines: 65hp and 90hp.
The two V4 engines, the 115-hp and the 130hp are light weight - the 130hp model weighs
a 140 pounds less than comparable engines
in its class – and offers high power and performance; low maintenance; and a cleaner, quieter operation. At the end of the season they
even fog themselves for automatic storage.
The six V6 engines range from 150hp to
300hp and feature a unique mix of the largest displacement in their class and the lowest
weight. Finally, there are six High Output (HO)
engine in the Evinrude lineup including the
new 15hp HO introduced in 2011.
All Evinrude E-TEC engines require no
dealer scheduled maintenance for 3 years
or 300 hours (even the iridium spark plugs
don’t need changing), are 3-Star and EU rated
with extremely low Carbon Monoxide emissions and require no oil changes - ever. And
of course there are fewer parts on an E-TEC
engine compared to an average four-stroke.
www.evinrude.com
EVINRUDE
After taking a wait-and-see position for
the past couple of years, this past fall Evinrude
released an all new 135hp two-stroke outboard
that’s available for order now for delivery in
January 2013.
The all new two-stroke V6 2.6L E-TEC engine
delivers up to 36 percent more torque, more
displacement and a high top-end speed thanks
to the best power-to-weight ratio in the industry (at only 418 lbs) resulting in better fuel economy. We can’t wait to water test this engine –
watch for a special hands-on test report coming
soon!
The rest of the Evinrude line remains
unchanged for 2013. There are seven E-TEC
Evinrude
135 HP
19 1 3
2013
• C E L E B R AT I N G 10 0 Y E A R S O F A M E R I C A N I N N O VAT I O N •
INTRODUCING THE NEW 2013
LX SERIES
LXi SERIES
LSR SERIES
CABRIO SERIES
VISIT WWW.LARSONBOATS.COM/SHOWS TO SEE SPECIAL 2013 BOAT SHOW PRICING.
FIND US ON:
LAR-12-017 Power Boating CA ENGLISH 20121220 RWF A.indd 1
12/20/12 2:31 PM
Volvo V8-380
VOLVO PENTA
Hot on the heels of a big
year in 2011, Volvo did it again in
2012. As we reported in this column
last year, Volvo predicated that by the
end of 2012 they would release two new
engines that would take gasoline sterndrive
power to the next level. Say hello to not one,
but two, true game-changers.
First, the all new V8-380 is a 364 cubic inch
engine based on GM’s fourth generation small
block called the L96. This is a true 21st century engine with a variable valve timing feature that increases fuel economy by a whopping 12% over the previous engine. Twelve
percent? Yes. That, plus a host of other
improvements (see Power Boating Canada,
28-1-Technology column for all the details) won
Volvo the IBEX Innovation Award for 2012.
Second, while there’s no replacement
for displacement, there is a place for refined
power and that’s exactly what Volvo’s all new
V8-225 engine delivers. It’s a tuned-down
version of the reliable 5.7 litre engine with a
smaller throttle body opening, industryleading emissions numbers, unprecedented fuel economy and a veryspirited throttle response. It’s Volvo’s
answer to the loss of the 4.3 L V6
from their line, and it’s the cleanest engine they’ve ever released.
Watch for a special handson tests report to come in
future issues.
Volvo’s IPS lineup
offers nine engines from
250 to 850hp. Their diesel inboard line offers
two dozen incarnations
from 11hp to 864hp.
The gasoline sterndrive
line is driven by six different engines, available
in non- and catalyst versions, from 200hp to
380hp; while the diesel
sterndrive lineup features ten different configurations from 133hp to
382hp. To find the best one
for your boat try the ‘engine configurator’ app on their website.
www.volvopenta.com
26
Suzuki
140 HP
SUZUKI MARINE
Suzuki’s marine division offers nineteen
different models fourstroke engine models
from 2.5hp to 300hp.
After a couple of years
of no new product
announcements, the
company unveiled
two battery-less fuel
injection models last
February – the DF15A
and DF20A. The new engines
allow smaller boat owners to benefit from the
increased fuel economy and easier starting that
fuel injection offers without the need for an
external battery.
The company also applied their Lean
Burn fuel system to two all new 115hp and
140hp engines. The new DF140A and DF115A
engines burn up to 14 percent less fuel in the
mid-range speeds where outboards spend
most of their running time compared to the
original engine models. Both models are
based on a 4-cylinder 124.7 cubic-inch block
with a 16-valve DOHC powerhead that delivers high power output and efficient operation. The new engines feature an O2 Sensor
Feedback System that
keeps running conditions more stable, and
incorporates a knock
sensor that optimizes engine performance delivering
greater reliability.
Finally, back
last summer they
introduced an all
new 250hp engine.
T he n ew BF 2 50A P
model is based on the
same 4.0 litre 24-valve
overhead cam powerhead
as the 300 model (that won
a 2012 Innovation
Suzuki Award from the
250 HP NMMA) and offers
Suzuki Selective
Rotation and electronic
controls.
For more information
visit www.suzuki.ca
HONDA MARINE
It was 2011 when Honda
introduced their all new flagship outboard - the BF250. The 250hp
3.6L 24-valve sixty-degree V6 outboard
Honda
250 HP
is based on the Honda Odyssey minivan
engine and claims to have the best-in-class
fuel economy. That, along with a host of other
innovations and advancements, went on to
help the BF250 win an IBEX Innovation award
that year.
For 2012, Honda was quiet in terms of new
product announcements, which honestly
makes us wonder what they might be up to
for next year. Stay tuned.
Honda Marine manufacturers a total of nineteen four-stroke outboard models - from the
lightest 2.5hp portable engine in the industry,
all the way up to the all new 250hp engine.
The entire line meets the rigorous California Air
Resources Board (CARB) 3-Star standards. They
also offer an industry-best True 5-year, nondeclining limited factory warranty.
www.hondamarine.ca
TOHATSU OUTBOARDS / NISSAN
MARINE
Tohatsu America Corporation is the U.S.
and Canadian distributor of Tohatsu and
Nissan Marine Outboards. In 2001, they
released a number of innovations to their 4hp,
5hp and 6hp portable outboards including a
front mounted shift handle - an industry first
in this horsepower category.
Also introduced in 2011, the new 75hp
and 90hp outboards share a new, uniquely
designed and quieter cowling, and a convenient built-in freshwater flush system to
FOR EVERY PASSION,
THERE’S A MANITOU.
®
Whether you’re looking to lounge on the open water in ultimate
comfort, or give your guests a ride that’ll leave them giddy with
excitement – count on Manitou to have the boat that perfectly
matches your lifestyle and budget. Year after year, Manitou
pushes the perception of pontoon boating by developing better
handling, safer, faster, more equipped watercraft.
See for yourself by going to manitouboats.com; where you can
watch the latest performance videos, find the nearest Manitou
dealer, even build and accessorize a boat to make it your own.
Find out more at
©2009 BRP US Inc.® are Registered Trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.
Patented V-Toon Technology available
on all MANITOU PONTOON BOATS
CUMMINS MERCRUISER
Torqeedo
C4.0
The transition back to their parent companies is now complete and customers with
5 to 15 litre engines should contact Cummins
directly for parts and service, while customers
with engines up to 5 litres as well as drives
and controls should contact Mercury Marine
diesel division.
www.cmdmarine.com
TORQEEDO
Tohatsu
4 hp
Tohatsu
5 hp
Tohatsu
6 hp
simplify routine engine flushing.
Tohatsu/Nissan’s entire TLDI Series of outboard engines have achieved 3-Star CARB ratings for ultra-low emissions, and come with a
3-year limited warranty.
www.tohatsu.com and
www.nissanmarine.com
APS
Advanced Power Sports has a lineup of
portable four-stroke outboards ranging from
2.6hp to 25hp. All their engines come with a
24 month limited warranty.
www.tomoscanada.com
Self described as “the leader in clean outboards”, Torqeedo motors are the little grey
and orange unmistakable engine that initially
drew a lot of questions and nay-sayers, but
have now proven themselves in both power
and reliability. Last year, major manufacturers like Princecraft began designing boats
specifically for electric power. In March 2012,
Torqeedo received yet another endorsement
in the form of a minority shareholder investment from Robert Bosch Venture Capital.
Just as we were going to press, Torqueedo
dropped their big news for 2013. An 80hp
electric outboard. Indeed, you did read that
correctly: 80 electric horses!! That was enough
for Torqueedo to earn the renowned DAME
Award for the boat industry’s most important innovation for the coming year. Project
named Deep Blue, the new 80hp electric
outboard is attached to a Zodiac inflatable
with the 325V DC high-voltage battery system, developed in partnership with Johnson
Controls, under the centre seat. The battery
pack comes with a 9-year warranty.
www.torqeedo.com
Torqeedo
80 HP
Late this past fall the company
announced what we’ve known was coming
for a while but couldn’t officially share – an all
new 9.9hp engine will be available in 2013.
Lehr engines run off of either a portable 1-lb
‘disposable bbq tank’ or a refillable propane
tank and hose.
www.golehr.com h
LEHR
APS 5 HP
APS 20 HP
28
Power Boating Canada first told our
readers about, of all things, a propane powered outboard after seeing it at the Miami
International Boat Show two years ago. At
the time, only a 2.5 and 5hp model were
available. These two little engines – that do
not pollute the water, have no ethanol or
fuel-related issues, produce zero evaporative emissions, start easily with no priming
or choke, and require no winterizing – are
getting more and more attention. Propane
has a 110 octane rating compared to 87 to 93
octane ratings for gasoline.
Lehr’s eco-friendly engine design has
earned them four top awards: a Popular
Mechanics Breakthrough Award for 2012,
a 2012 Tech Awards Laureate awards from
Tech Museum, West Marie’s Green Product of
the Year, and a 2012 Innovation Award from
the NMMA.
Lehr
9.9 HP
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TURN SLUG
Bill Jennings
Bill began writing about boats more than 38 years ago with monthly editorial submissions to several
boating publications and to date has published over 1,200 articles. But beyond writing, his experience in the world of boating is extensive. Following Bill’s early years, where he was involved with a
water ski school and several Power Squadron activities, Bill decided to race performance boats. He
retired from racing after winning a world championship, however, Bill remained actively involved in
the sport as a referee for five different classes and established three new divisions in Canada: River,
Drag and Offshore. He is a former vice-president of the Canadian Boating Federation and a certified
marine surveyor. Bill has also organized several major televised boat racing events, from offshore
powerboats to F1 tunnel boats. He currently owns his 19th personal boat , and recently improved
and implemented online testing procedures for the Department of Transport, Pleasure Craft
Operator’s Card.
Rhys Weed
mike burns
R hys got his start in boating at age 14 when he went for
his first trip onboard the tall ship Playfair and has never
looked back. Since then he has spent every summer (and
quite a few winters) working on ships throughout North
America. Along the way, he has served in every position
onboard from deckhand on up. Recently, Rhys finished up
with Toronto Brigantine, a youth sail training operation,
where he had spent five years as Captain of Playfair. Rhys
holds Transport Canada 150 ton Masters, and Small Vessel
Machinery Operator certificates.
Some of Mike’s earliest boating memories were aboard his
family’s 1949 Chris Craft cabin cruiser. As Mike grew up, the
boating bug stayed with him and he served on several Sail
Training Vessels world wide, including a 150-foot British
Schooner. He eventually decided to make a career in the
boating industry. After completing a college program in Marine Technology, Mike spent several
years as a full-time captain.
Mike has logged thousands of miles delivering vessels from the Great Lakes, to Florida and the
Bahamas, along with an extensive run through the Mississippi and Tennessee/Tombigbee River systems.
His experiences have allowed him to earn certification in Coastal Navigation, Celestial
Navigation, and Marine Emergency Duties. He has also attained his U.S.C.G. 100-Ton Masters
license. Mike remains actively involved with the marine industry with his yacht brokerage company North South Nautical Group.
32
QR CODES
TURN SLUG
➜
Aquapatio 2 5 0 X P
Boat Test #1229
Ready for the whole party.
A
qua Patio pontoon boats come from a
long proud lineage. Their parent company - Godfrey Pontoon Boats - introduced the very first all aluminum pontoon
onto the market back in 1958. In the years
following they have continued to improve,
providing innovative, quality products.
The 250 XP is the largest of the models AquaPatio produces, and at just under
27 feet long it is in the upper echelon of
pontoon boats when talking size. This boat
excels at being a large, powerful entertainment platform with the signature 8 feet 6
inch beam. The G-Force III 27-inch triple
tubes, with lifting strakes, are rated for up
to 300hp. The 250 XP will be able to carry
more than enough power to accomplish
whatever you want to do with it: skiing,
tubing or just flying around the lake. Hey,
with that much power you could even start
an impromptu towing company, helping
other boaters stay out of trouble! The fuel
tank carries a healthy 174 litres, making
sure you can stay out for plenty of time
even at top speed.
On the beautifully styled stainless steel
tow tower there are racks for wakeboards,
and two towing locations: one atop the
tower, and one on the stern. This provides
some flexibility depending on what your
water sports needs are. The full fiberglass
helm features a large cooler or gear storage
34
area behind a wide hinged door in the forward side. There is also additional storage
under all the seat bases.
If sitting at anchor is more your style,
then the 250 can still deliver. There is capacity for up to 16 people onboard. It may be
a little cramped if you got up to that, but it
is nice to know you can safely go there if all
your guests happen to bring some friends
along for the ride. If it is shade you want,
then you will love the unique easy-up bimini
that was specially designed in house. It
unfolds and opens up in one single motion
– truly a one-person one-hand job.
When selecting the boat for you there
are plenty of options available. Some of the
highlights for those intending to entertain
onboard include additional tables, stereo
upgrades (including a Sirius-ready package),
LED lighting package and even a 12-volt
blender! Many of the most innovative
aspects are actually standard on the 250 XP.
There are rumble seats aft, rotating tables to
help you move around the boat easily, and a
stern ladder that is a fully rigid, curved structure that will let those of any level of fitness
get back aboard with ease.
I especially like the very unique fiberglass corner treatments both fore and aft.
These curved fiberglass sections are unlike
anything you see on an average pontoon
boat and they make the 250 XP look sleek
and fast even when she is sitting still.
Summing up the whole 250 XP package you get a large, solid boat with plenty of performance-inspired power, great
entertaining room and some sleek and stylish lines. Backed by their decades in the
pontoon business, you can be sure that
AquaPatio 250 XP is a choice you appreciate
making for many years.
- By Rhys Weed
SpecificationS
LOA:
Beam:
Max HP:
Weight:
Fuel:
Capacity:
26’ 10”/ 8.2 M
102”/ 2.6 M
300 HP
4658 lbs. / 1673 kg
46 Gallons / 174 Litres
16 people
Aquapatio Boats
Nautic Global Group
4500 Middlebury Street
PO Box 1158
Elkhart, IN 46516
www.aquapatioboats.com
We’ve added scan-able
QR codes to each and
every boat test! Just take
your cell phone, scan the QR code beside each model name, and you’ll
be taken to that specific webpage on the manufacturers website. If the
manufacturer hadn’t updated their website as of press time, you’ll be
taken to the manufacturers home page. (A previous download the QR
app for your phone is required.)
CHRISTOPHER KOURTAKIS
With over 15 years of experience in the marine industry, Chris has worked for companies such as
Mercury Marine, Baja Marine, and the NMMA and tested boats ranging from 100+ mph go-fasts to
80-foot luxury yachts. He has his undergraduate from Western Michigan University and an MBA
from Tiffin University, along with his United States Coast Guard captain’s license. He currently
owns and operates one of the Great lakes premier charter boat companies and on-water training
courses, H2O Limos.
BRAD ROBERTS
Brad grew up at the family cottage on Lake Simcoe using
both powerboats and sailboats. A veteran journalist with
large national daily newspapers, outdoor interest magazines, and syndicated television shows, Brad has entertained and educated readers for over 15 years with his
unique family-inclusive perspective. His favourite pastime
is teaching others to use their boats to access the freedom
and beauty of a Life Afloat. Brad, his wife and three teenage daughters have traveled all over North America, but
choose to keep their 30-foot cruiser on Georgian Bay.
CAM & DIANA MCRAE
V eteran automotive and boating journalist Cam and
his wife Diana have been teaming up to review boats
for over sixteen years. Diana has had a life-long interest in esthetics and design, Cam adds his
history as a former marine technician and service manager. Both are enthusiastic boaters in the
Thousand Islands. Together they bring PowerBoating Canada readers a unique perspective on
a boat’s power, performance, comfort and style.
33
Aquapatio 2 5 0 X P
Boat Test #1229
Ready for the whole party.
A
qua Patio pontoon boats come from a
long proud lineage. Their parent company - Godfrey Pontoon Boats - introduced the very first all aluminum pontoon
onto the market back in 1958. In the years
following they have continued to improve,
providing innovative, quality products.
The 250 XP is the largest of the models AquaPatio produces, and at just under
27 feet long it is in the upper echelon of
pontoon boats when talking size. This boat
excels at being a large, powerful entertainment platform with the signature 8 feet 6
inch beam. The G-Force III 27-inch triple
tubes, with lifting strakes, are rated for up
to 300hp. The 250 XP will be able to carry
more than enough power to accomplish
whatever you want to do with it: skiing,
tubing or just flying around the lake. Hey,
with that much power you could even start
an impromptu towing company, helping
other boaters stay out of trouble! The fuel
tank carries a healthy 174 litres, making
sure you can stay out for plenty of time
even at top speed.
On the beautifully styled stainless steel
tow tower there are racks for wakeboards,
and two towing locations: one atop the
tower, and one on the stern. This provides
some flexibility depending on what your
water sports needs are. The full fiberglass
helm features a large cooler or gear storage
34
area behind a wide hinged door in the forward side. There is also additional storage
under all the seat bases.
If sitting at anchor is more your style,
then the 250 can still deliver. There is capacity for up to 16 people onboard. It may be
a little cramped if you got up to that, but it
is nice to know you can safely go there if all
your guests happen to bring some friends
along for the ride. If it is shade you want,
then you will love the unique easy-up bimini
that was specially designed in house. It
unfolds and opens up in one single motion
– truly a one-person one-hand job.
When selecting the boat for you there
are plenty of options available. Some of the
highlights for those intending to entertain
onboard include additional tables, stereo
upgrades (including a Sirius-ready package),
LED lighting package and even a 12-volt
blender! Many of the most innovative
aspects are actually standard on the 250 XP.
There are rumble seats aft, rotating tables to
help you move around the boat easily, and a
stern ladder that is a fully rigid, curved structure that will let those of any level of fitness
get back aboard with ease.
I especially like the very unique fiberglass corner treatments both fore and aft.
These curved fiberglass sections are unlike
anything you see on an average pontoon
boat and they make the 250 XP look sleek
and fast even when she is sitting still.
Summing up the whole 250 XP package you get a large, solid boat with plenty of performance-inspired power, great
entertaining room and some sleek and stylish lines. Backed by their decades in the
pontoon business, you can be sure that
AquaPatio 250 XP is a choice you appreciate
making for many years.
- By Rhys Weed
Specifications
LOA: Beam: Max HP: Weight: Fuel: Capacity: 26’ 10”/ 8.2 M
102”/ 2.6 M
300 HP
4658 lbs. / 1673 kg
46 Gallons / 174 Litres
16 people
Aquapatio Boats
Nautic Global Group
PO Box 1158
Elkhart, IN 46516
www.aquapatioboats.com
For every experience,
A Honda outboard to match.
Learn about exclusive Honda technologies you won’t find anywhere else. See the wide range
of Honda 4-stroke outboard motors, featuring the BF2.3, BFP60, BF115 and BF250 outboards.
Visit Honda.ca and find the right Honda outboard for you.
More enjoyment on the lake...
Rely on legendary Honda durability, quality and reliability to keep you on the water longer. With a wide range of lowmaintenance, fuel-efficient and clean 4-stroke outboard engines, there’s a Honda for you. Honda outboards offer
exclusive technologies like BLAST™ which produces low speed torque for maximum hole shot performance, LeanBurn Control that adjusts the air-fuel mix for increased fuel economy and VTEC™ for that superior combination of
power and torque. Owning a Honda product means peace of mind, knowing that you have the support of a vast Honda
dealer network during the life of your product. For all your weekends on the water, trust Honda.
Always wear a personal flotation device while boating and read your owner’s manual before operating your Honda Outboard Engine. Models and colours may not be
exactly as shown. All of the specifications listed here are subject to change without notice. All Honda outboards are power-rated in accordance with NMMA procedures.
honda .ca
Client
Honda Canada
Client Contact
Melanie Pineda (403-774-2548)
Creative Contact
Jenna Mapé (403-774-2548)
Publication/Issue
Power Boating Guide
Filename
Honda_Marine_13_Power-Boating-Guide-EN.pdf
Date
Dec 19, 2012
Taking Families
Boating Since
1948 with Three
Generations to
Serve you!
Barracuda
Boat Test #1230
9
A glimpse into the future.
S Series
G Series
Q Series
Serving western Ontario
Chatham, ON
519-354-3640
maplecitymarine.com
36
I
t was a few years ago that I mused with
our Technology expert Cam McRae about
the future of boating and what boats
might look like. At that time I tossed out the
idea of an express cruiser or flybridge boat
powered by the larger horsepower and more
fuel efficient four-stroke outboards that were
coming to market.
Perhaps Benneteau was listening to that
call. Perhaps their engineers and design
team were thinking the same thing. In either
case, for 2013 we now have a glimpse into
the future of boating with the Barracuda 9.
It’s a just under thirty-foot flybridge boat
powered by one 400 hp outboard, or in my
preferred option, twin 225hp outboards.
The outboards are either side of the keel,
leaving the swimplatform split and to the
outboard sides of the boat. This makes
sense when you consider the convenience of
access they offer to and from the boat. The
outboard are mounted low enough on the
transom that the shrouds don’t interfere with
the view from the aft cockpit which features
a full 9’ beam wide stern bench seat.
There’s walk around access forward
on either side of the centre cabin space.
Proceeding up the port side, you first come
across the vertical ladder to the flybridge.
Forward, there’s a sliding glas door to the
cabin, and further forward an open bow
that’s perfect for fishing or sunbathing with
the convertible seating or hammock-style
sunpad. Returning back down the starboard
side, there’s a second glass door to the cabin
for exceptional cross ventilation, The cabin
area features an enclosed wheelhouse with a
great view out the large windows all around
for boating in inclement weather. There’s
also twin captain’s and companion swivel
chairs, a rear bench seat, and access down
the port side to the full head and forward
double berth.
Personally, I’d be spending my cruising
time up on the flybridge where you and a
companion will find a commanding view out
over the entire boat for spotting fish, gunkholing new anchorages or docking like a pro
with the outboards and bow thruster.
The Barracuda 9 is a cruising flybridge
for two, with a fishing-inspired twist, and
with the fuel economy of the air-step hull
and four-stoke outboards, you may elect to
simply not come back home at the end of
the weekend. I predict it is just a hint at what
boats of the future will look like.
- By Brad Roberts
Specifications
Length: Beam: Displacement:
Fuel capacity: Water capacity: Max HP: 28’ 10’’ / 8.78 m
9’ 9’’ / 2.98 m
7,053 lbs / 3,200 kg
106 gals / 400 L
26 gals / 100 L
1 x 400 HP / 2 x 225 HP
For More Information:
Benneteau Powerboats
105 Eastern Avenue, Suite 201
Annapolis, MD 21403
Phone: (410) 990-0270
www.barracuda9.com
Bayliner
190 deck boat
Boat Test #1231
Sporty design, performance and price.
A
t 18’ 7”, the 190 from Bayliner is the
smallest of three entirely new deck boats
for 2013 that are replacing the companies former deck boat line. This major lineup
change comes as a result of extensive research
conducted by Bayliner to learn more about
what the consumer wants.
If their research is correct, recreational boaters today want a sporty design that can carry a
large number of people with all their gear and
still be capable of performing well for water
sports, fishing or just plain cruising around. And
they want all this at a reasonable price.
Bayliner’s answer to these boater’s needs
begins with an open boat concept. From there,
every square inch is cleverly utilized to accommodate more of the things that make the boat
more comfortable, safer, higher capacity and
more fun than other brands of the same size.
To further increase the versatility of their
deck boats, Bayliner offers optional packages
that give these recreational boats specialized
capabilities. The “Flight Series” package for
water sports includes a stainless steel wakeboard tower with integrated Bimini top and
adds sporty graphics to the hull. The optional
“Fish Package” gives anglers all the tools they
need for successful outings, such as a wireless
MotorGuide trolling motor, aerated livewell,
Garmin fishfinder, dual casting platforms and
chairs, and dedicated rod storage. The 190 is
available with a standard helm windscreen or
an optional full wraparound cockpit windshield.
Looking at the base model 190 DB, I found
lots to like. One of the most significant features
is its carrying capacity. It is rated for up to eleven people. An extended platform ahead of the
squared off bow as well as extended platforms
aft of the transom door make boarding and
beaching an easy task. This feature is one you
would normally find only on a pontoon boat.
Drivers will like the upgraded helm, with
easy-to-read instrumentation and a sport steering wheel which is centered to the very comfortable driver’s adjustable bucket seat. There
is even a tiny glove box above the wheel for
sunglasses and wallet. There are plenty of grab
handles and cup holders and to help eliminate
wind spillage when underway, some of the
holders are positioned behind the windshield.
Good thinking! Under-seat storage compartments can be partitioned to suit personal needs
and an in-floor storage locker accommodates
water toys, fenders and other gear. A portside
bulkhead functions as a high-capacity storage area, or it can be upgraded to include an
optional portable head. The seating design and
placement allows passengers to stretch their
legs for all-day comfort onboard. Even the bow
seats have cushioned backrests for lounging
with easy-to-reach grab rails.
I did identify a few optional items that I
would recommend to new buyers. These
include a bimini top with privacy curtain, an
on demand water system with 10 gallon tank,
a portable head and a depth sounder. These
items will expand your use and destinations for
the 190. A bow filler cushion will increase passenger comfort.
I tested the 190 with four adults aboard and
in very light wave action. Our power was the
standard engine - a Mercury 115 hp outboard,
EFI, 4 stroke. Three lifting strakes plus chine
ensured a quick planing time but if you figure
you will regularly use the boat to pull water
sports or carry large numbers, you might want
to consider one of the two optional engine
upgrades - a 150 HP EFI 4 Stroke or a 150 HP
DFI Optimax. Steering is tight and precise and
the 190 handles a variety of turn levels safely
and with a slight side slide effect, which means
it is not prone to hook. With minimal effort we
recorded a top speed of 37 mph and a cruise
speed of 21 mph, which is both comfortable
and economical.
- By Bill Jennings
Specifications
Length: 18’ 7” / 5.57 m
Beam: 8’ 1” / 2.46 m
Deadrise: 17º
Weight w/std. engine: 3,040 lbs / 1381 kgs
Draft max.: 16”
MAX HP: 150
Fuel Capacity: 35 gals / 144 L
Person Capacity: 11 or 1,556 lbs.
Bayliner
www.bayliner.com
37
Boat Test #1232
Bennington 2 4 S S R X
H
aving reclining chaise lounge chairs
on a pontoon boat sounds pretty
good, right? What about four of them?
You would probably figure that is reserved
for top-end boats, not something in the
entry-level range. That used to be the case,
but not anymore.
For 2013, Bennington has debuted their
new 24 SSRX model, featuring four loungers!
Two face forward in front of the helm, and
two face aft. In effect, this creates two separate conversation areas. The aft-facing seats
are not a common option in the pontoon
boat market, particularly in an entry level
boats. This creates a totally new layout, and
will be particularly sought after by those who
want more lounge space for suntanning and
similar activities. I particularly like the full
width swim platform beyond the stern cen-
tre gate. It gives water-loving kids plenty of
room to jump in over and over again while
their parents observe in reclined comfort.
Bennington Marine has a whole range of
boats to meet all their customer’s needs. The
24 SSRX model is part of their least expensive S Series, known as their ‘value’ line. In
this case, value doesn’t mean any less of a
boat, actually far from it, the S models still go
through the same construction methods and
inspection rigours to ensure you are getting
a boat that will last a long time and give you
the experience you want. While designing
the S Series, Bennington had entry level boaters in mind, and those who don’t necessarily need all the bells and whistles but yet still
want some cool features.
The 24 SSRX comes with the same pedigree that Bennington customers have come
to know and love over the years. The quality
that goes into the construction is top-tier,
and the icing on the cake has to be the rattle-free rails. A special construction method
developed by Bennington that incorporates
anti-vibration technology to ensure that
rattles and creaks in the rails, the bane of
many an otherwise happy boater, have been
eliminated on their fine watercraft. Overall
the 24 SSRX is ultimate comfort at an affordable price.
- By Rhys Weed
Yamaha “2013”
AR192
SPECIFICATIONS
LOA:
Beam:
Max. HP:
Fuel:
Capacity:
Tube Diameter:
23’ 10”/7.2 M
8’ 6”/2.6 M
150
32.2 Gallons / 121 Litres
12 people
25”
Bennington Marine
2805 Decio Dr.
Elkhart, IN 46514
(574) 264-6336
www.benningtonmarine.com
A Family Marina where “fun” has been
put back into Family Boating!
Full Service Marina 50 minutes north of
Toronto on Lake Simcoe
Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO
SALES FOR :
Yamaha 2-stroke & 4-stroke Outboards; Wave Runners, Jetboats & Generators
www.montoreno.com
Covered Slips 18’-45’
Winter Storage
Marine Store/Parts
Licensed Restaurant with Patio
Transient Docks for Easy Access
Sandy Beach
WiFi Wireless
Captain Hooks Playground
Certified Mechanics
Fishing Boat Rentals
Summer Sizzle Party
Proud Member of Clean Marine
Shoreland’r Trailers
Connelly Skis, CWB Wakeboard
Launch Ramp
SERVICE FOR :
MerCruiser, Volvo Penta, Evinrude, Yamaha, Cobra, Force
1111 Killarney Beach Road, Lefroy, Ont. L0L 1W0
(705) 456-2122 • Fax (705) 456-0139 • 1-888-689-7971
38
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Your
Season
Starts
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Baby’s first boat ride,
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Two Great Locations!
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Thursday, February 7 –
Monday, February 11
Owned by
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604-678-8820
Boston Whaler 1 7 0 M o n t a u k
Boat Test #1233
A Timeless Classic.
B
oston Whaler calls it a “timeless classic”. In reality, the 170 Montauk is as
new as tomorrow. A few years back,
Whaler finally decided to replace its venerable fourteen foot tender - the unsinkable
original. That boat was so special, in history
and in the public mind, that two boats were
designed to take its place. Wisely avoiding
the outcry that would typically accompany
such a change, Whaler kept the announcement a secret, surprising the boating public
with the two handsome “Super Sport” models. Both were a success. Boaters loved the
broad-beamed roomy interior and the soft,
stable, dry ride provided by the novel widechine deep-vee hull.
The Sport models were designed to be
simple in the extreme. The public, however,
clamoured for appointments and options
never intended for these entry-level boats.
The new Montauks offer that step up.
The hull shape echos closely the design
of the Sports, but it’s only a family resemblance. According to a Whaler spokesman,
the Montauk hulls are unique to the line,
formed in their own molds.
The result, a 150 and170 Montauk, are
another Whaler success story. The interior
and basic appointments carry the “bluewater” panache of the aforementioned timeless classic. An old Montauk wasn’t a beautiful boat, but instantly recognizable - some-
thing about the lines, the centre console,
the stainless grab handles, the sturdy rub
rail punctuating the gunwales. We decided that the new boats manage to retain
that style but with an added level of grace
and charm. Moreover, whereas the original
Montauks demonstrated some of the harsh
ride and skiddy steering characteristic of
early Whalers, the new models feature the
ride and agility of the Super Sport.
I thought that the Sport 170 was
a blast, inspiring my inner teenager to
engage in sharp turns and wake-jumping.
The Montauk’s centre-console steering and
ergonomic leaning post add another level
of control. They’re actually more fun to
drive. It’s the console that transforms this
boat. A Montauk has always been called
on to do duty in difficult waters and dirty
weather. Standing at the wheel of our 170, I
had that sense of: “Bring it on. This boat and
I can deal with anything you throw at us.”
Having thirty additional horsepower
doesn’t hurt either. True, the Montauk carries 250 more pounds than its Sport brother, but our 170 tester came on top in about
4 seconds, less if you were sharp with the
trim. WOT speed was 43-45 mph depending
on sea conditions. Those numbers suggest
a boat that will be equally happy engaging
in tow sports or searching for lunker bass.
The new Montauks have been designed
with that flexibility in mind. Modernity
comes to the 170 in the form of a livewell,
a sizeable Bimini, a sun lounger, Raymarine
navigation package and so on. Timeless?
Yes, a boat of the future with its roots in
the past.
- By Cam & Diana McRae
Specifications
LOA:
Beam: Weight:
Deadrise
Fuel: Power: 17’ / 5.18m
6’10” / 2.08m
1400lb / 635 kg
16 degrees
13 US gal / 49.2L
Mercury 90hp FourStroke
Test Boat provided by:
Ed. Huck Marina
Rockport, Ontario
www.marina.com
For more information:
www.bostonwhaler.com
41
Boat Test #1234
Campion
A
CHASE 550 OB
s Canada’s largest boat manufacturer, Campion offers a wide selection of
models in five distinct series. The Chase
550, is a new addition to their performance
outboard series and comes standard with a
bundle of sizzle.
Beneath the stylish exterior lines and in gel
graphics of the 550 bow rider, you will find a
Kevlar reinforced, Campion APEX hull. The seating layout is balanced, with two forward facing
loungers in the bow, two bucket seats behind
the windshield and a four seat ‘u’ shaped,
lounge at the stern. The adjustable bucket seats
are exceptionally robust, and include a flip lip
for a raised driving position. The swept back
windshield has extra large side wings to provide
excellent wind protection for passengers.
A high quality, tilt steering wheel and five
gauge helm is good looking as well as practi-
cal and the padding for the driver’s throttle
arm is a thoughtful touch. A good example of
items that Campion believe should be included
as standard equipment on this model are the
depth sounder and hour meter. These same
instruments are usually optional extras on competitive brands.
Some of the other items that are included
in the base price of the 550 include halogen
docking lights, interior courtesy lights, portable
cooler, a bow cover, a cockpit cover, a ski pole
and all stainless steel hardware. Your kids will
love how the bow filler cushion transforms the
bow seating to a large open sun-pad.
Of course not everything that you can put
on this boat comes standard. Key options
include stereo and speaker upgrades, a dual
battery switch, Sea Star hydraulic steering,
wakeboard tower with racks, convertible top
with side curtains, a storage cover and a colour
coordinated dashboard.
Campion chose an Evinrude E-TEC, 200 hp,
HO to power this performance model. The
designation “HO” on Evinrude engines signifies that performance upgrades have been
added, such as a straight leading edge gear
case with nose-cone pick-ups that significantly improve cooling and race quality gears of
extra-tough metallurgy. Stiffer engine mounts
improve handling and control at high speeds.
This configuration will easily have the Chase
550 top 60 mph.
- By Bill Jennings
SPECIFICATIONS
Length:
20’ 2” / 6.05 m
Beam:
7’ 8” / 2.30 m
Draft down:
36”
Weight:
2,000 lbs. / 909 kgs
Deadrise: 1
9 degrees
Maximum horsepower:
200
Fuel capacity:
28 gallons / 106 l
People capacity:
8
Campion Marine Inc.
200 Campion Road,
Kelowna, BC, V1X7S8
www.campionboats.com
Boat Test #1235
Edgewater 1 7 0 C C
T
he centre console boat is catching on.
Once reserved for salt-water semi-offshore fishing, the design is becoming
more popular in Canada. One reason is the
impressive range of functionality. This walk
around fishing boat works equally well as a
cottage water taxi on Friday evening, and an
all-Saturday cruiser, and a Sunday tow boat for
water sports. Another reason is the utilitarian
zero maintenance aspect. At the end of the
weekend simply tie it up at your dock and forget about it. Next week a quick hose down to
wash off the dust and pollen (or dock spiders)
and you’re ready to go.
One of the leading manufacturers of centre
console boat is Edgewater. I had the chance to
test their 170CC model on Lake Muskoka this
past fall. Dispense with the usual removal of the
42
canvas that is necessary before most boat tests.
Nope, I just jumped in, fired the Yamaha 115hp
outboard and tossed aside the dock lines. This
little number has 44 square feet of space in the
self-draining cockpit that features twin aft jump
seats, a double wide helm seat with flip seat
back and storage underneath, a forward facing
seat in front of the helm and a bow sun pad.
Cupholders are everywhere! Foot space is a
little tight on the floor between the forward and
bow seat but only in the corners.
The wheel positioned on the port side of
the centre console – complete with windscreen
and stainless grab bar – takes a little bit of getting used to but once out on the water it’s as
comfortable as a second skin. I recorded a time
to plane of 3 seconds, a top speed of 42.3 mph
at 6100 rpm on the digital Yamaha gauges, and
a very fun cruising speed of 25 mph at 4000
rpm. The hydraulic steering is a breeze and it
doesn’t take too many turns to position the
engine where you want it for close quartered
docking. It’s nice to see a standard side cleat on
the 170CC, so necessary for proper tie-up, but
the 2 step ladder off the swim platform needs
to be three steps to be truly useful for the average adult.
Overall, the Edgewater 170CC is a very fun
and capable performer that’s always at the
ready for whatever you need it to do.
- Brad Roberts
SPECIFICATIONS
Length:
16” 10’ / 4.8 m
Beam:
7” 3’ / 2.2 m
Draft:
12” / 28cm
Boat Weight:
1700 lbs / 771 kg
Person Capacity:
6
Fuel Capacity:
32 gal. / 115 L
Max HP:
115
address
EdgeWater Power Boats,
211 Dale Street,
Edgewater, FL 32132
www.ewboats.com
Chaparral
225Si WT
Boat Test #1236
A family-friendly cuddy that’s no minivan.
D
iana and I made two visits to
Chapparal’s new compact cuddy.
Our sea trial instantly impressed us
with the boat’s quick-reflexed performance
and comfortable ride. This is a family boat,
multi-purposed by necessity, and it delivers a happy blend of fast and fun, safe and
stable. Our tester was equipped with this
model’s topline powerplant, a 300hp 350
MAG hooked to MerCruiser’s Bravo Three
outdrive. Although powered to the max, the
dual props added their signature traction to
both acceleration and handling, enhancing
the boat’s even-tempered personality.
Performance aside, the 225 is a great
looking boat, with clean lines that are bold
enough to be distinctive, without being
odd. The Wide-Tech (WT) design is an
extension of Chaparral’s experience with
the “pickle fork”. But the WT is not a splitchine or tri-hull. The hull is widened in
the forward area, at the chine line - not
below the waterline, where it retains a true
deep-vee. The extra interior width becomes
noticeable in the helm area, including the
broad moulded steps to the bow. But it
really shows up in the cuddy. Most small
boat cuddy cabins are just large enough to
serve as change rooms and a place to hide
the Porta-Potty. The 225 vee benches will
convert to a full double berth. Moreover,
when the sun bakes or the rains come,
44
there’s room around the removable table
for a family lunch gathering.
Two weeks later we gave the boat’s
interior a careful second look in the comfort of Gordon Marine’s showroom. It was
the details that caught our attention. This
boat is studded with them. We loved the
colour scheme - a nautical true blue and a
sparkling white that matched the gleaming gel coat. Look closely and you’ll find
first quality vinyl with impeccable stitching.
Look again and find controls for the seat
mounts placed on the front of the captain’s
chair arms, not buried underneath. Lift the
left lever and the seat slides easily. Lift the
right lever and it rotates. Pull on the loops
in the centre of the stern lounge and the
middle cushions rise up, powered by gas
struts, to form back-to-back seating.
Simple items have also benefitted from
Chaparral creativity. Grab handles are
located all over the 225, everywhere you
might need one. They’re not simple tubes.
Crafted out of polished stainless, they’ve
been formed with a mushroom foot at the
fastening point and incorporate strong
through-bolts. The table mount is a heavy
chrome plate, slotted to receive the table
bracket and almost flush with the bulkhead. It’s rock solid, and for once, it’s not
a knee gouger. The stern walk-thru gate
borrows its lift-and-swing action from a
pontoon’s entry door. But, instead of aluminum, the 225’s is done up in shiny chrome.
Family-friendly cuddys have often been
dismissed as boating’s minivan. The quick
and classy 225SSi is listed in Chaparral’s
Sport Boat line-up. Right where it belongs.
Specifications
LOA:
22’6” / 6.9m
Beam:
8’6” / 2.6m
Weight:
4200 lbs / 1905kg
Deadrise: 20 degrees
Fuel:
56 US gal / 212 L
Water: 10 US gal / 38 L
Power: Mercury MerCruiser 5.7L MAG MPI
Bravo III
Test Boat Provided By:
Gordon Marine Ltd.
Gananoque, Ontario
www.gordonmarine.com
www.chaparralboats.com
MIAMI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW®
& STRICTLY SAIL®
February 14–18, 2013
Miami, Florida USA
The Greatest Boat Show in the World
See more than 3,000 boats and the latest in marine engines, electronics, nautical apparel and gifts.
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It’s everything sailing! Sailboats, sailing gear and accessories—including the world’s biggest selection of
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Pre–shop, tickets & details at MiamiBoatShow.com
PRODUCED BY
FIND US ON
Checkmate P u l s a r 2 4 0 0
Boat Test #1237
Semi-custom for faster heart beats.
T
he key to finding a boat that you really
love, is selecting one that will superbly handle the waters on which you
boat in addition to matching your personal
needs. Although it was many years ago, I can
still vividly recall the first time that I raced a
Checkmate. I crossed the start-line with 10
other boats, running full tilt for the first turn.
As I approached the turn I realized there were
no other boats around me and gave a concerned glance over my shoulder. I discovered
that I had already put the rest of the fleet
behind me.
More recently, when I was in the market
for a new boat with all the amenities of a high
end family runabout and was prepared to sacrifice top end performance to get it. But then I
remembered my Checkmate.
I knew that a winning hull design is hard to
find and wondered if I could start with one of
Checkmates amazing performance hulls, and
then add my own wish list of comfort and
convenience features. When Doug Smith confirmed that such a plan was possible, because
most Checkmates are custom built, I ordered
their 24’ outboard powered Pulsar model and
submitted my list of must have’s.
I specified a single Evinrude E-Tec 250HO BRP’s short shaft performance version of their
300 horsepower outboard block – because of
its’ outstanding performance figures. Interior
wise, I added a few creature comforts including a full under-deck V-berth with a hide-away
46
port-a-potty. Padded arm rests to make throttle operation both comfortable and more accurate. Four-way adjustable rock solid front bucket seats by McCloud and the well positioned
grab handles to provide maximum security.
And a rear bench seat built for four passengers.
A sharp appearance is important to any recreational boater and Checkmate’s Pulsar models
offer stunning looks, with sleekness accentuated by a low windshield and a long ‘droop snoot’
foredeck. The addition of fore and aft, flush
mount navigation lights and heavy duty pop-up
cleats enhance the smooth lines. To make this
package even more distinctive, I ordered a pastel yellow gel coat, with white trim.
Practical features are appreciated most over
time and I specified several for this Checkmate.
The flooring is 100% covered in a heavy duty
rubber matting, but a carpet is included that
can be snapped in for casual cruise days with
friends. An in-floor locker is large enough to
store boards, skis and lines. To have a power
reserve for the big V-6 outboard there are twin
batteries with a heavy duty selector switch.
Twelve volt outlets allow for carry on accessories. The outboard is mounted on an adjustable
set back bracket to permit performance tuning.
The boarding ladder is stainless steel and spring
loaded to fold open to a greater depth. A professional grade water sports tow bar is removable so as not to disrupt the Checkmate profile.
Electronics include an AM/FM/CD stereo and a
large screen Garmin combination chart plotter,
fish finder and depth sounder.
Of course, I couldn’t wait to get this 24’
Checkmate into the water. You can imagine
my surprise and delight when on her maiden
run she turned a top speed of 84 mph on the
GPS. While this speed number for a single
stock outboard, 24’ runabout is impressive in
itself, I was most impressed with the safe and
easy to drive handling. In a two foot chop,
even a nervous grandmother will love the silky
smooth ride that this 2400 Pulsar delivers.
Interestingly, Checkmate tells me that this
boat in a bow rider configuration has become
one of their hottest sellers. So if you are looking
for a recreational lake boat that does everything well and at a reasonable price, you will
be hard pressed to beat this 24’ Checkmate/
Evinrude combination.
- By Bill Jennings
Specifications
Overall length: Beam: Degree of Deadrise: Weight: Fuel Capacity: 24´ / 7.2 m
99˜ / 2.4 m
22°
2,000 lbs. / 909 kgs
63 Gal. / 239 L
Checkmate Marine Inc.
3691 St. Rt. 4 N. - P.O. Box 351
Bucyrus OH 44820 Phone: 419-562-3881
www.checkmatepowerboats.net
POWER BOATING CANADA’S
2013 POWER BOATING CANADA
RUN / RENDEZ-VOUS
FOR PROSTATE POKER
CANCER
CANADA
SCHEDULE
July 5, 6 - Hawkesbury, ON
POKER RUN / RENDEZ-VOUS
July 12, 13 - The Bay of Quinte, ON
SCHEDULE
July 19, 20 - Gananoque,
ON
Aug 9, 10 - 1000 Islands, ON
JulyOntario
5, 6 - Hawkesbury, ON
TBA - Lake
Register yourJuly
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at:
12, 13 - The Bay of Quinte, ON
July 19, 20 - Gananoque, ON
Poker Run Hotline:
TBA - Lake Ontario
1-800-354-9145 ext 252
Raise funds for
PROSTATE CANCER!
and help find a cure!
The Poker Run Rendez-Vous is a family friendly boating event for boats of all sizes and
speeds. Register your boat and run for your 5 playing cards. Speed has no bearing on the
winner. It’s all in the cards. For more information on the 2013 Power Boating Canada’s Run
the Wave events and how you can help, go to www.powerboating.com
POKER RUN / RENDEZ-VOUS
SCHEDULE
Join the
MOST EXCITING
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Great prizes, plus cash
Helicopter photos of your boat and family
Lunch and award dinner for participants
Activities all weekend long: music, entertainment,
boat handling course, plus see some of the
worlds fastest powerboats...
All this and more at our events.
July 5, 6 - Hawkesbury, ON
July 12, 13 - The Bay of Quinte, ON
July 19, 20 - Gananoque, ON
TBA - Lake Ontario
Cobalt 2 3 2 W S S W a t e r S p o r t s S e r i e s
Boat Test #1238
Evolving tradition into a winner.
T
his is not your Grampa’s Cobalt.
Check out the tall, shiny, look-atme tower. The in-your-face colour
schemes. The ballast tanks! Beneath the
extreme sport glitz, however, you’ll find the
classic Cobalt lines and signature deep-vee.
When the fun is done and the trip back
from the beach confronts open water and
rough seas, Cobalt’s chop-softening and
seaworthy hull will ease the trek home.
Often overshadowed by the glitz, boarding and skiing enthusiasts have some very
specific performance requirements. Tow
boats need to be quick on plane, have
the ability to stay on plane at low speeds
and be able to generate a variety of wake
shapes. Cobalt comes to this market with
some unique advantages. Their boats have
the quickest time-to-plane in the industry,
(averaging about four seconds across the
entire line!). Plus, a Cobalt’s running surface will hold it on top at speeds where
other boats would mush out.
Wake shape is a huge issue for towsport athletes. Skiers want to cross moderate and well defined bumps in the water,
bumps that are in the same place every
time they cross. Boarders require everything from the skiers’ bumps to deep-gullied ocean rollers. A Cobalt’s normal clean
wake offers an acceptable skiers wake, no
problem. Faced with generating the big
50
waves, Cobalt designers have taken two
approaches. They started with the assumption that the smaller 200, 210 and 220
Water Sports models will be primarily used
by more casual weekenders. Those boats
rely on drive angle and trim tabs to change
the boat’s running attitude and the resultant wake.
In contrast, our 232WSS and its 242 and
262 siblings present the ideal size for serious boarding. So, for 2013, these craft have
been treated to a professional-level ballast
system. Three tanks, positioned for greatest effect, can be filled or emptied independently with up to 700 pounds (318 kg)
of water.
Competitive and high-level recreational boarders also demand consistency and
repeatability. Same launch, same speed,
same wake - so that they can focus on perfecting the tricks. To that end, Cobalt has
adopted the Perfect Pass skiboat cruise
control and added their own Touch Tech
memory system which stores the riders’
preference profiles. A touch of the screen,
the tanks fill or empty automatically, and
Perfect Pass knows what to do.
Of course, it is that gorgeous tower that
defines a WSS. Crafted of lightweight polished aluminum, it folds down when not
required. Not out of the way, but enough
to regain some of the 232’s runabout sta-
tus. When the tower is in place it’s as rigid
as a girder. Spare boards are locked in the
racks, nothing rattles. The optional speakers and spotlights don’t vibrate.
Hey, if the Cobalt 232WSS is your grandfather’s boat, you are one lucky kid.
- Cam McRae
Specifications
LOA: 22’6” / 6.8m
Beam: 8’6” / 2.59m
Weight:
4165 lbs / 1886 kg
Deadrise:
21 degrees
Fuel:
50 US gal / 189L
Freshwater:
10 US gal / 38L
Power: Base engine - MerCruiser 300hp 350
MAG w/Bravo III
www.cobaltboats.com
Enjoy the ultimate boating experience – Luxury, Comfort, High Performance.
Visit benningtonmarine.com to see our complete line of performance pontoons.
22SS value priced
2250 GSR
(middle level trim
amazing stern radius)
2575 QCW I/O
Western Canada
Ontario
Martin Motor Sports
Toll Free 1.877.627.8468
West Edmonton, AB 780.481.4000
Calgary, AB 403.253.6187
Saskatoon, SK 306.664.2628
Kelowna, BC 250.769.3371
www.martinmotorsports.ca
DICK PLUMMER
MARINE
1495 Pembroke Street W
Pembroke, ON
613-735-2316
www.dickplummer.ca
HASTINGS MARINE
1456 Drysdale Road
P.O. BOX 59
Hastings, ON
705-696-2366
www.hastingsmarine.com
Mobile Marine
(2007) Ltd.
235 Main Street West
Huntsville, ON
705.789.3932
www.mobilemarine.com
DT Powersports
8160 Lakeridge Rd RR3
Uxbridge, ON
905-852-3932
www.dtpowersports.com
Mid North’s Play
Powersports & Marine
2100 Kingsway Avenue
Sudbury, ON
705.222.7529
mike@playpowersports.com
THE PERFORMANCE
SHED LTD
3768 HWY 38 North OF 401
Harrowsmith, ON
613-372-1280
www.performanceshed.com
West Hawk Marine Ltd.
Hwy 44, Box 10 Whiteshell
West Hawk Lake, MB
204.349.2239
www.westhawkmarine.com
Four Winns H 1 8 0 O B
Boat Test #1239
Sharing the excitement.
L
ast year, Four Winns introduced a brand
new hull and brought it to market under
the H210 model. For 2013, that very same
hull design – and it’s inherent and incredible
characteristics – expands to the all new H180.
I know! That was my reaction too: “Didn’t
Four Winns introduce just a couple of years back
an all new H180 model?” Yes they did – and
it was a great boat. But when you have a hull
that’s this exciting, this responsive, you simply
can’t keep it to just one model, you must share it
with the rest of the line.
So I waited until the first of the all new
2013 H180’s arrived at the Boat Warehouse in
Coldwater. They had both the sterndrive and
the outboard version in stock, and we set up to
test the outboard on nearby MacLean Lake.
The H180’s hull shape on the trailer very
much resembled last years’ H210. The hull sides
are quiet vertical (which creates tremendous
interior space) and the chines are hard. Four
Winn’s trademark Stable-Vee® hull had received
the same treatment at the stern as last years’
H210 model that had performed so well. The
hull bottom was turned down slightly, effectively creating a built-in trim tab. I wondered
however, given the three foot shorter length of
this hull, whether it might be too much.
I climbing up the four step angled swim
stairs. Anybody who’s ever climbed up a too
short ladder or worse - one that as soon as
you add your weight to it, disappears several
52
degrees under the swim platform - knows just
how hard it is to get out of the water. That’s
why I called this impressive reboarding devise
‘swim stairs’ and not a swim ladder.
The swim platform consists of two flat and
reasonably-sized rectangular areas on either
side of the motor well that are truly functional
for sitting, reclining, or putting on water skis or
a wakeboard. The outboard is mounted low on
the transom so that the top of the shroud is just
slightly higher than the stern seatback.
In the cockpit, a full width stern bench
seats will seat four adults. The twin swivel
captain’s and companions chairs are plush
and comfortable.
The helm featured the optional hydraulic
steering as our test boat was equipped with the
optional and all new 150hp Mercury four-stroke
outboard. Traditional white on black gauges
with chrome bezels were set near vertical under
a small eyebrow. Forward in the bow, the seating is unique with the outboard side of the seat
backs angled forward just slightly so that they
truly support your back as you sit with your feet
up and stretched forward. All seats are finished
in Aquaflex™ white vinyl with a Silvertex™ color
vinyl insert to match you hull colour options.
Performance wise, I recorded an incredible
2.6 second time to plane that produced very
little bow rise thanks in part to the subtle trim
tabs in the hull. At wide open throttle I recorded a top speed of 53mph. The Mercury 150 is
a wonderful engine match for the H180 – near
silent at idle and with plenty of torque throughout the powerband. So much torque in fact
that I was able to get the three blade aluminum
prop to cavitate a little bit in very hard cornering
– a problem I’ve had with this same engine on
other hulls – that’s easily solved by upgrading to
a stainless prop. Simply put this is the best hull
FourWinns has designed, and then tweeked for
smaller models like the 180 – ever!
- By Brad Roberts
Specifications
LOA:
17’ 11’’ / 5.46 m
Beam:
7’ 7’’ / 2.31 m
Fuel Capacity :
24 gal / 91 L
Boat & Engine Weight : 2250 lbs / 1020 kg
Persons Capacity: 8
Maximum Capacity: 1800 lbs / 816 kg
Deadrise:
19º
Max HP: 200
Manufactured By:
Four Winns
925 Frisbie Street
Cadillac, MI 49601
www.fourwinns.com
Thanks to:
The Boat Warehouse
www.theboatwarehouse.com
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©2012 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ™, ® and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational P
safely and responsibly. Not all riding conditions are appropriate for inexperienced or beginner riders.
2107217
©2012 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ™, ® and
the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products or its affiliates. Products are distributed in the USA by BRP US Inc. Alwa
2107217
©2012 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ™, ® and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products or its affiliates. Products are distributed in the USA by BRP US Inc. Always ride
2107217
2107217_PWC_Brand_EN_MAGspd Multidlr_4c.indd 1
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©2012 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ™, ® and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products or its affiliates. Products are distributed in the USA by BRP US Inc. Always ride
2107217
Available at these fine dealers:
Martin Motor Sports
Toll Free 1.877.627.8468
West Edmonton, AB
780.481.4000
South Edmonton, AB
780.438.2484
12/4/12 1:22 PM
Paris Marine
2980 Lakefield Rd., RR#4
Peterborough, ON
705.652.6444
www.parismarine.com
Dealer Imprint
Goes Here
Uxbridge Motorsports
Marine Ltd.
3 Douglas Rd.
Uxbridge, ON
905.852.5884
www.uxbridgemotorsports.com
Northland Recreation
1007 Cowan Park Road
Muskoka-Bracebridge, ON
705.769.3671
www.northlandrecreation.com
St. Onge Recreation
Barrie, ON
705-733-2280
www.stongerecreation.com
53
Boat Test #1240
G3 A n g l e r V 1 8 5 S F
T
he venerable aluminum deep-V fishing boat has long been a staple in
many boat manufacturers’ lineups. G3
Boats all new Angler V185 SF is the largest
model in their Angler line of thirteen deep
V’s models.
The layout combines the best of everything which results in an amazingly versatile boat. The dual console design offers
the protection of a full walk through windshield. Yet the windshield doesn’t interfere
in either the space or 360-degree openness
of the large forward casting platform.
Up front, you’ll also find a huge rod storage locker, a 24-volt trolling motor receptacle, two forward storage areas, a livewell
to port and yet another storage area to starboard. Underneath, you’ll find the entire
bow area of the GX2 three piece hull is dou-
gear storage in the wide gunwale lockers.
There’s a small swim platform and reboarding ladder to starboard, and I like the full
width self-draining splash well in front of
the outboard on the 25” deep transom.
The Angler 185SF comes well equipped
in either the red/platinum or ivory/silver
full paint treatments, with a standard 115hp
Yamaha outboard and a ShoreLand’r® trailer.
- Brad Roberts
ble plated with 0.100 gauge aluminum riveted together to take whatever you’d like to
throw at it.
The new air-ride suspension seat pedestals for the captain and companion seats
are superb! I like the all new high-back seat
backs as well. There’s a full AM/FM Sony®
Marine CD player with USB port for when
the fish aren’t biting, or when you’re using
your Angler V185 for a family cruise or an
afternoon of fun water sports. Completing
the full fiberglass helm console is full
Yamaha instrumentation and a tilt steering
wheel with hydraulic steering to handle the
up to 200 horsepower outboard that will
make this eighteen footer just fly.
Further aft, you’ll find twin jump seats
that fold down to make a stern casting
bench with seat base, and more rod and
SPECIFICATIONS
Length:
Beam:
Transom Height:
Fuel Capacity:
Hull Gauge:
Maximum HP:
18’ 5” / 5.52 m
96” / 2.4 m
25” / 0.625 m
33 gals / 125 L
0.100
200
G3 Boats
Lebanon, MS
www.g3boats.com
Available at:
Hastings Marine
1456 Drysdale Road
Norwood, ON K0L2V0
705-696-2366
Monto Reno
1111 Killarney Beach Rd.,
Lefroy, ON L0L 1W0
(705) 456-2122
1-888-689-7971
www.montoreno.com
The All-New F200
At the core of every Yamaha outboard lives over 50 years of innovation. From the extremely
portable F2.5 to the migthy V8 F350, Yamaha has the right outboard for you.
Visit yamaha-motor.ca to see our full line.
54
yamaha-motor.ca
Ontario’s Newest
Four Winns
Dealer
Grandmere
W
Boat Test #1241
14 Fisherman
Half a century of success.
e’re so used to small skiffs and utilities
bent out of lightweight metal that the
idea of such a boat done in fibreglass
is a novelty. It wasn’t always so. In the boom
years immediately following WWII, two technologies borrowed from the wartime aircraft industry vied for prominence in the popular new
recreational boat market. For a while, it looked
like fibreglass might win outright. But the tough
simplicity of a “tin boat” garnered that material a
loyal following. Similar little boats made of fibreglass fell out of favour.
But not all of them. Some of those boats,
shaped and molded in a manner not possible in
aluminum, just wouldn’t go away. There’s one
that has been kicking around the Province of
Quebec for decades and has been produced by
a number of Quebecois boat builders. Gordon
Marine, just down river from where we live, has
been selling them for 36 years.
We’ve wanted to test a Grandmere for a
while. But, priced at under five grand with a
four-stroke 9.9, Gordon’s sells them as fast as
they come in. This summer we finally got our
ride. In a customer’s boat.
What’s the appeal? Well, the Grandmere
14 has a wood boat’s good looks, dry ride and
confident handling. At first I assumed that the
original mould used an existing wood lapstrake as the buck, perhaps an old Mason or
Penn Yan. But, when we plucked it out on the
fork lift I could see that it has a unique shape
all on its own, a hull design that has lasted
almost half a century!
Pounding over its own wake, or that of a
passing cruiser, the wee craft was stable and
composed throughout. When I sent it quartering across those same obstacles, none of the
resultant spray came back at the boat.
Some small alloy skiffs go nose high before
dropping on to plane. With just me on board,
the Grandmere lifted slightly and dropped
immediately. At no time did the driver lose forward vision. And it was quiet! Tin boats clank
and bang, the solid ‘glass Grandmere gave up
nothing but dull thumps.
The options are simple. You can have the
trim in red or blue. The two stern seats and a
chamber in the bow are sealed boxes to provide
positive floatation. The passenger seats feature
cushioned flip-up tops, providing access to storage - always a bonus on a small boat.
Our tester came equipped with that staple
of cottage life, an old Merc 9.9. The 14 is rated
for up to 25hp, and Gordon’s has equipped
a number of Grandmeres with 15s for a step
up in performance. But we didn’t miss it. With
the well broken in 9.9 two-stroke, the little skiff
scooted out of the hole and scampered over the
St. Lawrence.
Our one regret was that we didn’t try rowing.
Next time.
Specifications
LOA: 14’ / 4.27m
Beam: 5’ / 1.52m
Weight: 250 lbs / 113.4 kg
Capacity: 930 lbs / 422kg
Recommended Power: Mercury 9.9
FourStroke
Test Boat provided by:
Gordon Marine Ltd
Gananoque, Ontario
www.gordonmarine.com
Canot Grandmere,
4011, 4e Rue Grand-Mère, Québec G9T 5K5
(819) 538-2044
www.canot-grandmere.qc.ca
Four Winns H180RS
Fours Winns 275 Vista
Four Winns 260SS
Taking Families Boating
Since 1948 with
Three Generations to
Serve you!
maplecitymarine.com
519-354-3640
55
Hurricane
SunDeck 2200 DC
Boat Test #1242
Family friendly space and performance.
B
oat manufacturers are constantly trying
to create, or recreate, the so-called perfect boat. While that title may be elusive
in reality, the fun is in the quest, and one man’s
compromise maybe another’s holy grail.
So what if you could combine a traditional
hull bottom with its inherent quick to plane
hydrodynamics and modified-v sea-keeping
characteristics; with the bow lounging space
that only a pontoon can offer; with the classic
layout of a dual console sportboat cockpit; and
the fuel efficiency and easy maintenance of an
outboard? Wouldn’t you have the near-perfect
boat?
Hurricane designers thought so, and this
year they are out with an all new design: the
Hurricane SunDeck 2200 DC model.
Let’s start under the surface. A traditional
fiberglass hull design forms the basis for this
22 foot long and 8’ 6” beam trailerable boat.
Foam is injected in between the hull and the
full fiberglass liner for excellent floatation and
sound deadening qualities.
Up at the bow you’ll find a flattened forward deck almost the full width of the hull,
which in itself is carried far forward to the elongated bow to create an incredibly spacious
seating area that resembles a pontoon with
twin facing lounge sofas with great storage
underneath. There’s easily room for 4 adults up
here. Unlike many deck boats, the Hurricane’s
bow is deep with thickly upholstered seat-
56
backs that come up to my shoulders giving
the feeling of being safely inside the bow not
on top of a platform. There are 4 stainless
cupholders in the sides, two speakers up front,
and stainless grab bars all around. An anchor
storage locker and telescoping reboarding
ladder complete what amounts to a forward
swimplatform.
One of the things that separates the 2200
model from others in the Hurricane line is a full
wrap around walk-thru windshield, that when
combined with the canvas bow cover that fit
excellently right up to the windshield base,
greatly extends your cruising season.
The classic runabout cockpit features twin
pedestal mid-rise helm and companion seats
with flip-up bolsters, and a near full-beam
l-shaped bench that wraps from the port side
across the stern and stops just shy of the starboard side walk thru. Again the cockpit is deep
like a sportboat yet combined with the forward
seating provides room for up to 10 passengers
to come along for the ride in true comfort.
The entire floor is antiskid fiberglass and the
optional bamboo carpeting is a nice touch.
A larger than normal day head compartment lies in front of the companion seat, complete with a sink and available teak flooring.
At the stern, the up to 250 horsepower outboard is mounted low on the transom making
it easy for the rope from the telescoping ski
tow bar to clear the cowl. That’s important for
water tow sports and little kids learning to ski
for the first time. A starboard side telescoping
reboarding ladder is hidden under a hatch
cover. The 2200 DC is also available in an i/o
version, which adds a single-width sunpad.
Overall, the all new for 2013 Hurricane
SunDeck 2200 DC is a family friendly do-it-all
boat that doesn’t compromise performance for
space and comfort. One test ride and it’ll grow
on you, and then after your john-henry hits
on the purchase order, it’ll grow with you and
your family for years to come.
- By Brad Roberts
Specifications
L.O.A:
Beam:
Maximum HP:
Weight:
Fuel Capacity:
Person Capacity:
22’ 0” / 6.71 m
8” 6” / 2.59 m
250
3409 / 1548 kg
56 gals / 212 L
10
Hurricane Boats
Nautic Global Group
PO Box 1158
Elkhart, IN 46516
Phone 574.522.8381
www.hurricaneboats.com
Boat Test #1243
Kawasaki U l t r a L X
F
or 2013, Kawasaki’s three seater Ultra
LX model has it all. One of four Jet-Ski’s
in their lineup with the cancellation of
their standup model in 2011, the Ultra LX
offers many of the features and design traits
of their Ultra 300LX model but at a budgetminded price point that’s hard to beat.
The jet white and silver blue deck is crisp
and clean looking, mounted on a black composite hull that’s a full 132 inches in length.
That’s long enough to deliver a comfortable
ride for three passengers, but short enough
to also deliver exciting single-rider performance when you want to go it alone.
The most in its class, a full 160 hoursepower performance is delivered by
Kawaskai’s 1498 cc DOHC 16 valve inline
four-cylinder engine with digital fuel injec-
tion. Again, there’s more than enough power
there to peg the digital electronic displays
even with three passengers – or two riders
with one enjoying the view from the end
of the tow rope hooked to the standard
ski hook. That power is respectful to the
environment as well. The LX has earned a
Three-Star Ultra-Low Emissions rating from
the California Air Resources Board and it
also meets the US Environmental Protection
Agency’s strictest standards. The direct fuel
injection into a 60mm throttle body provides
more predictable acceleration and excellent
fuel economy, so that the largest-in-class 20
gallon fuel tank can give you plenty of fuel to
disappear for the day.
The Ultra LX is an all-around go anywhere cruiser that found the sweet spot
between price, performance and function.
It features class leading storage space with
a total of 60 gallons of room to take everything you could possibly want with you for a
great day on the water.
The Ultra LX comes with a full one year
warranty, and Kawasaki offers an affordable
Good Times Protection Plan that extends
this for an additional 24 or 36 months at the
buyer’s option.
- By Brad Roberts
SPECIFICATIONS
Length:
132.7” / 3.31 m
Beam:
47” / 1.17 m
Fuel Capacity:
20.6 gal. / 78 L
Weight :
932 lbs / 423 kg
Rider Capacity:
Three
Engine:
1,498 cc Four-stroke, DOHC, four
valves per cylinder, four-cylinder inline
For More Information Contact:
Canadian Kawasaki Motors Inc.
25 Lesmill Road, Toronto, ON, M3B 2T3
(416) 445-7775
www.kawasaki.ca
Boat Test #1244
Larson
S
compartment for up to 8 fishing rods, and the
trolling motor battery storage compartment.
The floor of the bow casting area is large and
there’ ample room to roam around. There are
large dry storage compartments for more gear
– complete with rubber gasket seal - and an
optional 18 gallon bow livewell with a bait
bucket storage insert. The FX 1750 SC comes
pre-rigged with a 12/24 volt wiring harness, a
55 pd MinnKota trolling motor, and a Lowrance
X-50 fishfinder.
Celebrating their 100th anniversary in 2013,
Larson has a winner in this hot little number.
- By Brad Roberts
FX1750SC
o you want a true fishing boat with all
the amenities but in fiberglass not aluminum? Welcome to the Larson FX 1750
SC – one of four models in their FX series.
The VEC hull construction ensures a wood
free hull with integrated stringer system and
an incredible fiberglass finish, not to mention
a lifetime warranty you can pass onto the next
owner (if you ever sell).
The FX 1750 SC model features an open
deck layout with two deluxe fishing chairs and
six bases with nearby grab handles. The transom is designed to accommodate an extra kicker motor – with separate helm throttle control.
The full beam width stern fishing platform lies
in front of the anti-splash well, and there is a 29
gallon aerated livewell under the port hatch.
The gunwales are reinforced for downriggers and rod holders, there’s a port side generously sized storage compartment for your
passengers gear, and a starboard side one
just aft of the throttle controls. The helm is
seamlessly integrated into the entire fiberglass
cockpit for a really solid feel – something you
don’t often find on a fishing boat of this size,
and features a windscreen to shield the white
on black gauges.
Up the bow you’ll find a mid-ship lockable
SPECIFICATIONS
Length:
Beam:
Weight:
Person Capacity:
Max. Horsepower :
Fuel :
17’ 5” / 5.31 m
8’ 0” / 2.44 m
1,600 lbs / 726 kg
6
150 hp
23 gal / 87 l
Larson Boats, LLC.
700 Paul Larson Memorial Drive
Little Falls, MN 56345-1100
www.larsonboats.com
57
Manitou
23 Oasis SE
Boat Test #1245
A happy ‘toon.
I
f you think you’ve seen more pontoon
boats around lately, you are not imagining things. Pontoons are one of the boating segments currently recording increasing sales numbers. There are good reasons
for their growing popularity. You just have
to look at the new Manitou 23 Oasis SE to
find them. ‘Toons offer innovative seating
options for family and friends and can open
up a whole new world of boating activities.
It begins when you step aboard. You
have three gateways to choose from, making boarding a breeze. Looking at the seating arrangement, this pontoon feels more
like a living room on the water than a small
boat. The large comfortable seats for up to
fourteen people immediately come to your
attention. Such seating permits cruising
options that you never dreamed of.
Other standard features include a large
sun-pad with equipment storage under.
Rolled edges and a 7” rail are added for
safety. Carpeting is a heavy duty marine
grade. Roto-molded seat bases have double walls, providing the space to conceal
speakers and floor lighting. The functional
helm includes gauges for fuel, speed, RPM,
volts, an AM/FM Jensen Radio with four
speakers, and a battery switch. A stainless
boarding ladder is mounted at the stern.
There is also a 24 quart cooler and a large
bimini top with boot.
Since pontoons are so versatile in their
58
applications, Manitou provides a long list of
options so buyers can create the watercraft
of their dreams. These include a bow gate
filler seat for additional seating; a larger third
tube on the centerline for improved handling and storage; a built in galley with sink
plus a BBQ for onboard cooking. There’s
even a porta-potti and dressing room with
privacy curtain available. If you’re a fisherman, then opt for the Lowrance electronic
fishfinder plus a livewell and vertical rod
storage. Get the wake tower package option
for the kids (with speakers and lights of
course!) and consider upgrading to the flooring simulated teak flooring option.
Most pontoons make flat turns - like a
car. A V-bottom boat leans into the turn,
reducing side forces and making the ride
more comfortable. When it comes to performance, Manitou has won several engineering awards for incorporating features
that have totally changed the image of
Toons. Probably best know is their triple
‘log’ design, which is optional on the Oasis
23. The V-Toon® technology involves the
addition of a larger 27” center tube, which
is then lowered 1.25” below the outside 23”
tubes to provide a 5.25” differential that
effectively creates the v-hull. Manitou then
fits the tubes with positive angle lifting
strakes to enhanced planning and performance. The result is that a V-Toon® pontoon
accelerates, planes, and turns much like a
traditional v-hull boat. Speed numbers will
vary significantly with the number of passengers and amount of fuel onboard, but
cruise speeds in the 30’s and top speeds in
the 40’s should be more than adequate for
normal boating activities.
The Manitou 23’ Oasis SE has wide customer appeal. Recreational boaters will
appreciate the comfort and maneuverability. Fishermen will appreciate the platforms,
storage space and optional fishing equipment. All boaters will appreciate the comfortable layout resulting in a high social
rating capacity and the limited lifetime
warranty.
- By Bill Jennings
Specifications
Length:
Weight:
Person Capacity: Fuel Capacity: Maximum Power: Tube Diameter: 24’ 11” / 7.17 m
2,260 lbs. / 1027 kgs
14
24 gals / 91 L
130 hp.
25”
Manitou Boats
7800 Northport Drive
Lansing, MI, 48917
www.manitouboats.com
Monterey
234SS Super Sport
Boat Test #1246
Stands out from the crowd.
T
wenty-two, twenty-three foot sport
boats comprise the most competitive segment in the recreational
marine market. If a boat is to shine in this
league, it’s a case of “go big or go home”.
No, make that “go right or go home”.
The boat has to have all the requisite
appearance, performance, comfort and
convenience features. And, it has to have a
hook, some stand-out attribute that sets it
off from the crowd.
A tall order, but well filled by
Monterey’s new-for-2013 234SS. No
stranger to the sport boat wars of recent
years, Monterey already offers SS boats in
most sizes from 18 to 26 feet. The 234 slots
right in to an available niche and it sure
has the look.
The 234’s sleek, can-do profile can be
trimmed out in a wide variety of treatments, from conservative to Xtreme, from
traditional blue and white to knock-yoursox-off black on black. Like all the Super
Sports, it shares a version of the ergonomic and handsome helm station - equipped
with backlit “medallion black ice” gauges.
And, all the grab bars, cupholders, cleats
and the like meet Monterey quality standards. The 234SS interior layout is dominated by U-shaped stern seating, with captain’s chairs just behind the windshield.
As an option, there’s a passenger side
seat with a reversible flip seat back that
converts that section of the stern “U” into
a long lounger. Of course, all of the upholstery is impeccably styled and stitched.
A Super Sport’s athletic performance
can be traced directly to a pair of unique
features in Monterey’s Facet hull design. At
the stern, the running surface is extended
beyond the transom on both sides of the
drive, thereby adding lift when running
slowly. Forward along the chine, complicated notches are positioned to aerate
the undersides when the hull is up and flying. Working in combination, these aquadynamic tricks create a boat that is economical to run, will stay on plane at low
speeds and that hangs on in tight cornering maneuvers.
What’s the 234’s hook? The Monterey
sun pad, of all things. Done before, right?
Not in a size comparable to a queen size
bed - on a 23 foot boat. All of the Super
Sports have a rear sun deck, but with the
filler cushions installed, the palatial 234SS
pad sprawls across the back of the boat
fully 54 by 83 inches. It’s big and showy,
but it doesn’t look ridiculous or out of
place. Monterey’s designers have managed
to comfortably integrate the vast vinyl
area with the stern seating. Plus, they’ve
added a flip-up section in the centre of
the upholstery that forms a wide aft-facing
seat back when raised.
For all the attractive features of a
Monterey sport boat, some folks will purchase the 234SS just for the sun pad.
- By Cam McRae
Specifications
LOA:
Beam:
Deadrise:
Weight:
Fuel:
Water:
Power:
23’ / 7.01m
8’6” / 2.5m
20 degrees
3,950 lbs / 1,792 kg
52 US gal. / 208.2 L
10 US gal. / 37.8L
300hp maximum
Monterey Boats
1579 SW 18th Street
Williston, FL, 32696
www.montereyboats.com
59
Premier
290 Grand View
Boat Test #1247
Tricked out, this is pure luxury.
C
elebrating 20 years in the pontoon
boat business, the family run company Premier continues to turn out
products that have kept them ahead in
the industry. For 2013 they have unveil
the 290 Grand View model, so named
for the helm setup that allows for a truly
grand view.
The aft deck, which contains the
Captain’s chair to starboard and a lounge
area to port, is raised about 18” from the
deck, providing an unobstructed view
over the whole boat and any of your passengers. Underneath the raised platform
there is a storage area, making this a very
practical innovation. The designers have
also managed to keep the lines of the
boat looking good by slightly changing the sheer as the rails run aft, and this
serves to make the raised platform almost
unnoticeable from afar.
Before going any further let’s be clear
that the 290 Grand View is a luxury pontoon. The base boat, although impressive,
doesn’t stand out that much from the
crowd. It is large, and the raised platform
is a nice touch. But if you really want to
take full advantage of what Premier does
best, you need to explore the options
available for the 290.
Starting off you can opt to increase the
beam from 8’ 6” to a full 10’, increasing
60
your deck area by almost a full 50 square
feet. The 290 is a large boat to begin with,
but this takes it to the next level, creating
a boat with almost 300 total square feet of
deck space, which is essentially unheard
of for a boat of this size. The extra room is
not wasted though, and Premier has a few
different options to put into this space,
you can choose one or all.
There is the galley option with sink
and drawers and then there is the
Bombay Bar to help you keep the refreshments flowing. There is a barbecue
option that will help you feed the masses
you have brought aboard, and for those
guests who forgot to change beforehand
there is even the pop-up changeroom.
This is a great option that takes up very
little space if not in use, but provides a
full sized change area when open, complete with a vanity. Sound system and
lighting upgrades round out the list of
simpler options. If you’re really ready to
take it up a notch, the optional second
story deck with a water slide needs to be
seen to be believed.
Being such a large boat, the 290 needs
some hefty power to make it go, Premier
has thought of that and another one of the
options they provide is for twin engines.
There is a total of 500hp available with
the dual transom option. The twin 250hp
outboards will provide plenty of power for
getting the PTX tubes up onto plane and
cruising in style, even if you have a full load
of 18 people onboard. If you are looking for the best in pontoon boats, and want to be able to entertain very large groups of friends then the
Grandview 290 is a great model to keep in
mind. Premier backs all of their products
up with five year warranty, so you can be
comfortable that your new watercraft will
be around for many years to come.
- By Rhys Weed
Specifications
(With 36” PTX Twin Tubes)
Length: 29’4”/ 8.9M
Beam: 8’6”/ 2.6M
Weight: 3700lbs. /1679kgs.
Max. HP: 2 x 250hp
Capacity: 18 People
Premier Marine Inc.
26612 Fallbrook Ave.
Wyoming, MN 55092
1-888-815-6392
www.pontoons.com
BREAK THE ROUTINE,
NOT THE BANK.
The All-New AR192
AR192
SX192
School, work, soccer practice, dance class, grocery shopping, traffic jams, mow the lawn, fix the sink,
do the laundry, make dinner, hit the door running and off to the lake... And yet, at this moment, on this
water, a deep breath. All of you together - it doesn’t get any better.
The new Yamaha 192 series: supercharged performance, complete with Bimini Top, marine grade
carpet, Clarion® stereo and trailer with swing-away tongue. That’s the best-value package on the
market, steeped in Yamaha reliability.
yamaha-motor.ca
190 Series
210 Series
212 Series
240 Series
242 Series
Princecraft
Xpedition 200 WS
Boat Test #1248
All Canadian fishing machine.
T
his past fall I got the opportunity to test
some of Princecraft’s new for 2013 models on Lac William in Quebec, just east of
where they are manufactured in Princeville.
As my wife and I walked down the dock,
I have to admit that this bright red fishing
boat caught our eye first. Perhaps it was
because the fall colours were at their peak,
but the Xpedition 200 WS in all Canadian red
sitting against the dark black water was picture perfect. It’s also available in a black hull,
but our preference would be red.
Princecraft introduced the Xpedition
series last year with the 170 model that
comes in 3 versions: windshield (WS), side
console (SC) and tiller (BT). The accolades
that this all new hull design received from
dealers, customers and the media alike was
nothing short of amazing.
So for 2013 they have expanded the line
with the 200 model. At 3’ and 1” longer than
the 17, the new Xpedition 200 is one inch
wider in the beam and 2 inches deeper overall. It’s the same hull design – just expanded.
That means there’s even more room for the
reverse chines that offer so much stability at
rest – and at speed. It’s a big boat, built for
some serious fishing on any water.
The raised bow casting platform is dead
level with the boat at rest. (Some others
slope upwards to the bow to get in the storage space below.) There’s a 17 gallon aerated livewell up front and to port, and to
62
starboard, a rubber gasket seal on the hatch
ensures a true dry storage compartment,
complete with a drain. The mount for the
seat pedestal is dead centre on the platform.
Aft, and in front of the windshield in the WS
model, or the console on the SC model, to
port and starboard are two more access
hatches to additional and large storage areas.
On the centerline is a large hatch that reveals
a compartment that goes all the way to the
bow to hold 10 rods each in separate tubes.
Underneath you’ll find storage space for the
deep-cycle batteries for the Minn Kota trolling motor. The Xpedition 200 is wired for
12V, 24V or 36V trolling motors.
The wide gunwales that run the entire
length of the hull support the ingenious
Prince Track system. This lets the owner add
on and position anywhere around the boat
they wish a wide assortment of fishing accessories: rod holders, cupholders, and more.
The tall walk thru windshield will fend
off the worst of the weather. There’s a large
storage area in front of the companion seat,
and tons of leg room to stretch out there and
at the helm. The Princecraft design team
gets top marks for a helm where the wheel is
centered on the seat and for including a cup
holder for the captain.
There are two addition seat bases in the
floor, and one more in the centre of the
raised stern casting platform. Two jump
seats positioned outboard fold up and each
have a grab handle. The stern livewell is a
gigantic 20 gallons!
Our test boat was equipped with
Mercury’s 225hp Verado with a 21 pitch 3
blade aluminum prop. There was also a 9.9
kicker on the transom, with separate helm
throttle controls and a steering rod from
the main engine. We recorded a top speed
of 59mph at 6500 rpm – that’s darn near
100km/h! What’s more impressive was that
the hull was still on plane at 2500 rpm doing
just 12 mph. We walked around the boat
at various speeds and marveled at both the
spaciousness and the stability of the hull.
If you’re in the market for a serious fishing machine, with the fit and finish of a fine
automobile, and you want an all Canadian
product, you can’t go wrong the Xpedition
200 WS.
- By Brad Roberts
Specifications
Length: Beam: Weight :
Fuel: Max HP: Capacity: 20’ 0” / 6.1 m
92” / 2.3 m
1549 lbs / 703 kgs
28 gal / 106 L
250
8 people
Princecraft Boats
725 Saint-Henri
Princeville, Quebec G6L 5C2
www.princecraft.com
Rinker
Captiva 186 OB FS
Boat Test #1249
Scoring a bulls-eye on all accounts.
I
n the beginning (1945!) the Rinker
family built little runabouts and skiffs.
Runabouts you could ski behind,
skiffs you could fish from.
Over the years, Rinker’s focus narrowed to their well-received line of compact cruisers. The little boats didn’t go
away, but they were definitely in the
background. Fast forward to 2008 when
the market shifted dramatically. Cruisers
are still in demand, but small runabouts
re-became the rage. Rinker responded
with the strikingly good-looking Captiva
line and scored a bulls-eye with the little
186BR. According to Rinker, their first outboard in 25 years is “wildly successful”.
It’s not always easy to reproduce the
lines and style of a larger boat in a smaller package, but to my eye the 186 is the
best of a good bunch, carrying the rakish
outline of its siblings with confidence.
Nor does the 186’s performance disappoint. The little hull scoots around with
the agility of a PWC. And, according to
our friends at Len’s Cove, the 186 gets on
top in about 5.5 seconds and makes 38
mph with a 115 Merc FourStroke. Plenty
of speed and acceleration for skiers and
tubers. (How ‘bout Mercury’s new 150!)
But you can’t really fish from it. Not
conveniently, anyway. Not with the
comfy cockpit layout and the lack of a
livewell and fishing pedestals. Again,
according to Rinker, the company
received a “wave of requests” for a fishing package.
The result is the Captiva 186-OB-FS.
The FS is for “fish & ski”, but I suggest
“ski & fish” is more accurate. You’d never
mistake this handsome, plushly padded,
richly coloured bowrider for a dedicated
fish hunter. But the novel FS fishing features definitely create a worthy platform
for a morning’s angling.
A large aerated livewell is tucked
below the rear bench. The requisite Minn
Kota troller gets a mount on the bow
along with the appropriate battery storage and plug-in wiring. But the truly
creative part of this conversion is found
in the fishing pedestals. When in “ski”
mode, there are bucket seats on either
side of the stern bench. Lift them out
and they become the two pedestal seats.
Pop out the bow cushions and drop the
bow deck insert in place. There’s a socket
for one pedestal up there. The other has
a choice of two positions on the stern
deck. (Snap-in carpet is standard on the
Captiva line. I’d take that out as part of
the conversion as well. Sure, it’s easy to
clean, but...)
The return of small boats has also
inspired a resurgence in trailering. These
easy-tow craft don’t cost a fortune in gas
to move around and the lure of a distant
lake, and its fish, can be irresistible. The
Captiva 186 FS comes with a custom EZ
Loader trailer, ready to go.
- By Cam McRae
Specifications
LOA:
Beam:
Weight (w/engine etc):
Fuel:
Power:
18’8” / 5.69m
88” / 2.24m
2675lb /
1214 kg (approx.)
26 US gal / 99L
Maximum 150hp
Rinker Boats
300W Chicago Street,
Syracuse, IN, 46567
www.rinkerboats.com
Thanks to
Len’s Cove Marina
www.lenscove.com
63
Boat Test #1251
Scout
262 Abaco
T
oday’s boat buyers are demanding
more and more from their boats. The
vessels need to perform well in more
than just one type of boating. Scout Boats
262 Abaco model is their answer to that
demand. As you’ll see, it’s one incredible
fishing-utility-vessel – an FUV!
The twin Yamaha 150hp outboards are
more than ample and efficient power to
make the Nu-V3 hull perform at its best while
saving money compared to the equivalent
horsepower in a sterndrive. The outboards
also provide space for a very large – 35
square foot - aft deck with 4 gunwale mounted rod holders. There are 4 additional rocket
launcher rod holders on the aluminum frame
that supports the hardtop. All 8 rods will tuck
neatly away in the under gunwale storage
areas, and you’ll find 4 sliding drawer there as
well. The rear bench seat easily folds up and
out of the way into the transom if needed.
Up a single step to the helm level, you’ll
find a 20 gallon aerated livewell positioned
behind the companion seat, and a 192 gallon fish box with drain behind the helm seat.
The two seats feature flip up bolsters and are
finished in a gleaming chrome with two tone
tan vinyl.
Through the hatch and down two steps
to the cuddy cabin, you’ll find a pump-out
manual head to starboard, a small galley to
port, a single berth tucked back under the
companion seat and an angled double-sized
v-berth forward. The cabin is finished in a
full fiberglass hull liner with a holly sole, and
there’s also a microwave, a small fridge and
TV /DVD player.
Up on deck, the wide sidewalks to the
bow are matched with high stainless rails,
and forward there’s a Lewmar windlass and
anchor locker.
With this layout, it’s easy to see how the
262 Abaco is at once a weekend escape
cuddy, an all-day fishing machine, a cottage
transport vessel, and with the addition of a
stainless tow bar, a family watersports tow
boat. It’s one fun Fishing-Utility-Vessel.
- By Brad Roberts
SPECIFICATIONS
Length:
Beam:
Weight:
Fuel Capacity:
Max HP:
Draft (aprx):
Deadrise:
Live Well:
Fish Box:
26’ 2” / 7.98 m
8’ 10” / 2.7 m
4,800 lbs / 2,177 kg
130 gal / 492 L
300 hp
15” / 0.4 m
21°
26 gal / 98 L
192 qt / 182 L
Scout Boats.
2531 Hwy 78 West,
Summerville, SC 29483
www.scoutboats.com
X250
FM 165
25CRZ
25RFL
www.lowe.com
The Cars RV & Marine Superstore
7414 50th Avenue,
Red Deer, AB
403-347-3300
drandal@thecars.ca
www.thecars.ca
64
The Boat Warehouse
101 Coldwater Rd.
Coldwater, ON
1-800-377-9499
www.theboatwarehousegeorgianbay.com
The Boat Warehouse
2157 Bath Rd.
Kingston, ON
1-888-378-0583
www.theboatwarehouse.com
SEA DOO
GTI Limited 155
Boat Test #1252
Top of the fun line.
S
ea Doo’s GTI Limited 155 model is one
of fourteen different personal watercraft models the company makes. Each
model is aimed at a slightly different segment of the PWC market and falls into one of
four lines: luxury performance, recreational,
sport and musclecraft. The GTI Limited 155
is positioned as the top machine in the recreational line.
While the gear-heads and aftermarket modification enthusiasts certainly
wouldn’t consider the 155 a muscle craft
by any means, it does however have many
of the top features of the other lines in its’
list of specs.
At the heart of the GTI Limited 155 is Sea
Doo’s legendary 1503 Rotax® 4-TEC® engine.
This powerplant is the normally aspirated
version of the same engine that comes
supercharged in the top of the line luxury
performance model – the GTX Limited iS
260. The 1493 cc displacement engine with
a 60mm throttle body delivers great low
end torque and runs on normal 87 octane
gasoline for even greater fuel savings. This
is a great engine, and not that long ago,
this motor was considered a powerhouse.
However, by today’s standards it is more
of a mid-range engine. Expect it to deliver
excellent response, strong acceleration in
Sport Mode, more progressive acceleration
in Touring Mode, and enough overall power
to break the 55+ mph on the digital information centre. In practical terms, that’s plenty
of power to pull a skier or tube behind you,
and still put a smile on your face and your
two passengers.
Supporting the 155 is a 132” composite
hull – in an all new Anthracite Grey colour for
2013 – that is as responsive to single riders
and it is with three aboard. Add in features
like the stern reboarding step - for the inevitable wipeout – and sponsons for better hole
shots and high speed stability, and this hull
will deliver some thrilling rides.
Beyond the hull and engine, the GTI
Limited 155 has all of Sea-Doo’s high tech
electronic controls found on other lines. It all
starts with iControl - the brain of the machine
- that runs all the fly-by-wire telemetry. I personally like the amazing smoothness of the
electronic throttle and the convenience of
cruise control for those longer rides or more
open stretches of water. Of course Sea Doo’s
exclusive on-water brake is as ingenious as it
is impressive as I’ve stated in previous tests.
The true neutral position of the transmission
allows the rider to start and warm up the
155 at the dock. A true neutral, in combination with the iBrake and the Off Throttle
Assisted Steering (O.T.A.S.TM) makes docking and maneuvering in tight situations (like
gas docks and launch ramps) so much easier
and far less stressful. The high performance
Variable Trim System, that lets you adjust
the angle of the water jet in relation to the
hull (analogous to trimming an outboard or
sterndrive), and the Touring or Sport mode,
along with ECO mode (that provides up to
46% improved fuel economy) all help you
further customize your riding experience. Sea Doo puts the GTI Limited 155 at the
top of the recreation lineup, in my opinion it
should be positioned at the top of your family’s fun line. It’s a personal watercraft that will
grow with you and your kids for many years
to come. Be sure to order it with the optional
retractable ski-pylon.
- By Brad Roberts
Specifications
Length: 132.6” / 3.36 m
Width: 48.5” / 1.23 m
Height: 44.0 “ / 1.11 m
Weight (dry): 755 lb / 343 kg
Rider Capacity: 3
Fuel Capacity: 15.9 gal / 60 l
30.8 gal / 116.6 l
Storage Capacity: Engine: 1493cc 1503 Rotax® 4-TEC®
engine with closed-loop cooling
Sea Doo / BRP
75, rue J. A. Bombardier
Sherbrooke, Quebec, J1L 1 W3
www.sea-doo.com
65
Sea Ray
250 SLX
Boat Test #1252
Quietly staying ahead of the wave.
S
ea Ray proudly claims that they make
a boat for every lifestyle. The Sea Ray
250 SLX Sundeck provides a perfect
example of that claim. It is simply a beautiful boat.
The seating layout on this 26’ 6” boat is
superb. Bowrider lounge seats, with storage
below, have molded armrests for added
comfort. There are twin bolster bucket seats
behind the curved glass windshield. Even
the driver side windshield wiper is standard.
To starboard there is an entertainment center with Corian sink, storage cabinet and
trash receptacle. A 21 gallon tank and 12
volt pump ensures ample fresh water for
the sink and transom shower. For big boat
convenience, there is a private enclosed,
portable head. Aft, you will find a semi-circular aft lounger, with a fibreglass storage
base and a large gull-wing sun pad. The
integral swim platform incorporates a stainless steel, four step boarding ladder with
built in grab handle.
The 250 SLX helm is as complete as any
we have seen in a boat of this size. In addition to a standard speedometer, a ‘systems
tachometer’ includes: depth/water temperature, engine alarm/hour meter, fuel consumption/usage, trim level, troll control, voltage and digital speed.
The Sea Ray, SmartCraft instrumentation has glass lenses with low glare, blue
66
night lighting and chrome bezels. You also
have the sound system controls for the Sony
stereo with CD player and iPod connector.
Steering is improved with power assist and
the tilt wood-accent wheel and the lighted
chrome toggle switches add a touch of class.
As standard power, buyers may choose
between a MerCruiserR 350 MAG ECT with
a Bravo III, 300 hp sterndrive. Six full-length
strakes on this 2,531 pound deep-V, provide
superior lift and control. The optional 380
horsepower Mercruiser dramatically increases the performance numbers and the 75 gallon fuel tank facilitates longer cruises.
The 250SLX is also one of the first models
to which Sea Ray has applied an improved
construction procedure that they have
dubbed “quietRIDE™ Technology”. This fundamental change in the build process uses
acoustical forensics, advanced engineering
and sound-attenuation materials to deaden
sound and vibration at the source. To be specific, a patented tuned transom® from Omni
Products Inc. reduces noise and vibration
created by engine and drive. A special inner
laminate fabric between the deck, hull and
liner converts vibration into heat, preventing sound from traveling through, which
reduces noise and vibration from the water
hitting the hull. Full-beam bulkheads and
acoustical insulation trap and absorb noise
and vibration before it can enter the cockpit.
Sea Ray also installed gaskets or bumpers
on all hatches and doors and inserted foam
beneath the deck. The net result is a significant reduction in noise, vibration and harshness, which in turn contributes to a more
luxurious boating experience.
New options for this year include fashionable two-tone upholstery, full-colored
hull gelcoat and a forward-leaning tower
with LED lights and removable bimini. The
Sea Ray 250 SLX Sundeck strikes a perfect
balance between style and substance.
Improved engineering and electronics for
safer boating - sharper designs for good
looks - full amenities for more fun - and
a quieter ride so that everyone can enjoy
everything offered above.
- By Bill Jennings
Specifications
Length :
Beam :
Dry Weight: Fuel Capacity :
Water Capacity: Holding Tank 1:
Dead Rise: 26’ 6” / 8.07 m
8’ 6” / 2.59 m
5,581 lbs / 2,531 kg
75 gal / 283.9 L
21 gal / 79.5 L
0 gal / 37.8 L
21°
Sea Ray Boats
www.searay.com
“Sistership Photo”
Smokercraft
161 Pro Angler XL
Boat Test #1253
Everything in sixteen feet.
C
ertain people look for certain things in
a boat. Maybe it is the ease of trailering the boat. Maybe it is the size of
the bait/livewell or the ability to take four
of your best fishing buddies on the water.
Whatever you are looking for, you will find
it in the 161 Pro Angler XL. This boat has
everything that you need to spend a great
day fishing on the water whether you are a
professional angler or looking to introduce
your family to the sport.
The side console design features an
automotive style helm with a tachometer,
speedometer, fuel gauge, and lighted rocker
switches strategically placed for easy accessibly and use. The push button style fuses
are located right next to the rocker switches
to let you know if there is an issue and so that
you don’t have to stick your head in a dark
hole somewhere on the boat. Completing
the helm is the optional fish finder mounted on the starboard side, and a small windscreen. (If you’re looking for a dual console
model, check out the 162 Pro Angler XL pictured above.)
Being a larger guy, the casting platform
provides easy mobility for me to access the
25 gallon aerated livewell and the stability
to reach over the side of the boat as I reel in
my next catch. The platform is completely
carpeted with beautiful 18oz. silver grey carpet that is rubber backed for quick and easy
68
cleaning. Completing the functionality of the
bow casting platform is the optional Minn
Kota trolling motor with foot pedal and three
larger storage compartments in the floor.
One of my favorite things about this particular model is the fact that Smokercraft
has advantageously placed five seat bases
throughout the boat to ensure that more than
two people can easily fish the boat without
tangling their lines together. The two standard wood-free seats can easily be moved to
a location of your choice quickly. When not
behind the helm, my favorite location on the
boat is the forward casting platform.
Some of the other great features on the
161 is the lockable rod locker on the on the
port side with T-locks, the large casting platform to the stern of the boat and the built
in 20 gallon fuel tank. The casting platform
hides the boat’s batteries and gives you plenty of clearance over the motor and rigging on
the transom. The fuel fill on the port side is
flush mounted to reduce the chance of spilling gas when you are refueling.
When the boat was out of the water I got
a good look at the double riveted seams and
the quality workmanship that Smokercraft
is known for. The hull is made with .100”
gauge aluminum, while the sides are .070”
gauge, and the ribs are a thicker .125” gauge.
The painted hull really adds a nice touch of
class to the boat.
I really enjoyed taking the 161 for a spin.
She reached a top speed of 34.1 mph at
6,200 rpms and had a cruising speed of 18.2
mph at 4,000 rpms with the Mercury 60 HP
four stroke (15P prop). She quickly and easily
planed off in 5.41 seconds and reached 20
mph in 7.28 seconds. For trolling, the motor
idled at 800 rpms with a speed of 2.2 mph. If
that’s not slow enough for the species you’re
chasing that day, the trolling motor is always
available.
This boat is a dream for someone who is
just starting out as well as for more experienced anglers. In what is only 16’, the 161
Pro Angler XL has all the amenities and fishability of a larger boat and will not disappoint
anyone who steps aboard.
- By Chris Kourtakis
SPECIFICATIONS
Length:
Beam:
Weight:
Capacity:
Fuel Capacity:
Max HP/kw:
16’ 0” / 4.80 m
91” / 2.27 m
935 lbs / 425 kg
5
20 gals / 72 L
75
SmokerCraft
PO Box 65,
New Paris, IN 46553
www.smokercraft.com
Starcraft
Starlounger 256 Limited
Boat Test #1254
Cruise in ultra plush comfort.
I
f your family is like a lot of my friends’
families, you have more than one child
that wants to bring their friends and not
hang out with their sibling’s friends because
of the age difference or because they are of
the opposite sex. They each want the best
seating on the boat away from each other’s
group because they are “way to cool” to
hang out together. Good thing the Starcraft
256 gives you the relief of hearing them
fighting over the seats all day and gives
them the ultra-plush comforts whether they
choose the seating configuration in the bow
of the boat or the stern.
The unique and wide open layout on
the 256 creates the perfect environment for
spending countless hours on the water. The
oversized high back facing loungers that
adorn both the port and starboard sides
of the bow provide ample seating for 3-4
adults comfortably on each side. Curving
around the bow railing the seating is
designed to provide your guests with room
to move and not locked in by a squared off
lounger. The other side of the lounger is
angled just in case someone gets a bench
all to themselves and wants to put their legs
ups and use the bench as a chase lounger.
To the stern, the rear-facing fiberglass
loungers are ideal for anyone looking to sit
back, layout and catch some rays. Designed
with the perfect angle, plush arm rests, an
oversized lower pad to sit on and a least 3
cup holders per seat, your guests may never
get up. Even the stereo speakers have
been engineered and perfectly angled and
mounted so that your favorite tunes can be
heard without having to crank up the stereo
while under way. One feature that Starcraft
thought through is that they put a stylish
seat back to the stern of the boat so that the
loungers can also be used as bench seating and would not be wasted space if your
guests did not want to layout.
Don’t worry, as the captain, Starcraft has
thought about you as well. The high back,
plush captain’s chair with arms rests that
can be moved is one of my favorite chairs to
sit in that is available on the market today.
It is wide, well-padded for your bottom and
your back and can be tilted back to create extreme comfort levels while you are
behind the wheel.
The fiberglass dash wraps around the
captain’s chair and has been has been
designed with functionality and comfort in
mind. The speedometer, rpm gauge, fuel
gauge, volt meter and trim gauge are perfectly placed so that while underway you do
not have to take your eyes off of the water.
The tilt steering wheel and perfectly angled
throttle ensure that you have to use any
effort getting the 256 on its way.
If your guests are looking to go tubing
or wakeboarding, the optional ski tow bar
will allow you to quickly throw the line out.
The permanently mounted boarding ladder
on the starboard side of the swim platform
provides quick access to the water while the
center mounted door provides easy access
to the cockpit of the 256.
There is no need to worry about having
enough power as the 256 is equipped with
a 150 HP Yamaha that quickly jumps onto
plane in 3.91 seconds and has a top speed
of 31.9 mph at 5,800 rpms which is ideal for
towing someone behind the boat. When
not in tow, the 256 cruises at 18.1 mph at
3,500 rpms and the 30 gallon built in fuel
tank that provides extended ranges.
With friends and family members in the
market for a new pontoon, the 256 is going
to be one of my top recommendations for
them to check out.
Specifications
LOA:
Beam:
Max HP:
Dry Weight:
26’ 10”
102”
200
2,575 lbs.
Starcraft Marine
PO Box 65, New Paris, IN 46553
www.starcraftmarine.com
69
Stingray 1 9 1 L X
Boat Test #1255
The outboard family grows.
T
his is the second year in a row that
Stingray will have outboard powered boats in their lineup after being
absent since 1997. For 2013, they expand
their outboard family by adding a younger
brother to the three new models introduced
last season.
The 191 LX is a garage-able, and towable
by nearly any vehicle out there, outboard
family bowrider done up Stingray style. I
say that because this isn’t your basic entry
level stripped-down smallest model that
some manufacturers might offer. Nope, not
Stingray Boats. President Al Fink doesn’t
believe in doing things that way.
The 191 LX is based on the very same
patented Z-plane hull that all their boats
ride on. Admittedly, Stingray tweeked it
a little last year to accommodate the outboard engine. They extended the deck aft
on either side of the outboard to almost the
back of the cowl, and supported it with a
full hull that also extends out beyond what
is the effective transom of the boat. It’s still
amazingly fast to plane and so wonderfully
responsive to even the slightest input from
the helm. Don’t forget to choose your ingel colours: blue, platinum, red or titanium.
The cockpit features a full fiberglass liner,
not merely a capped deck, that’s secured
to the hull with stainless screws through a
generous rub rail with a stainless steel insert.
70
Injected foam in between makes for one of
the quietest rides I’ve even taken in a small
runabout. There’s no walk though transom,
so the stern bench seat runs the full beam
and provides seating for four kids or three
adults comfortably. I like the grab handles
conveniently placed for those in the stern
seat. Twin companion and captain’s midback bucket chairs are full upholstered with
pockets in the back to keep the charts or
chamois handy. Up front, through the walk
through windshield, the bow seat bases provide room for two adults and are a full 15
inches below the gunwale, plus there’s a full
length stainless grab rail. Let’s not miss that
the windshield still includes those wonderful
and ever so useful side vents!
While there’s no anchor locker up front,
there is plenty of room under the seats for
your anchor and rode. There’s more storage in the floor underneath an oversized
door, and even more under and behind the
stern seat. Open storage in the sides provides easy access to the things you need
readily at hand.
Options wise, I’d suggest the fish and
ski package so that you can do everything you’d ever want to with this bowrider. Power wise, Stingray specs a 115hp
outboard which in my experience will
provide plenty of pull for skiers and tubing, plus great cruising fuel economy for
everyday family activities.
I’d like to see Stingray make one modification: add a sunpad. What? A sunpad
on an outboard boat? It’s possible. Take a
look at the photo above and you’ll see that
there is space between the stern seat back
and the front of the engine cowl. Just add
a removable piece of king starboard to fill
in the motor well when the engine is tipped
down, and a removable cushion the length
of the beam and you’d have a great spot for
mom to worship the sun while Dad and the
kids tempted the fish!
Overall, while the 191LX might be
Stingray’s entry level outboard size wise, it is
far from stripped-down quality and feature
wise. Add it to your list to water test at a
dealer near you.
- By Brad Roberts
Specifications
Length: Beam: Weight: Fuel: Capacity: 19’ 3” / 5.9 m
91” / 2.31 m
2100 lbs / 954 kgs
34 gal / 129 L
8 people
Stingray Boats,
Hartsville, SC
www.stingrayboats.com
AVAILABLE AT:
MARTIN MOTOR SPORTS
Edmonton, AB 780-481-4000 • Calgary, AB 403-253-6187 • Saskatoon, SK 306-664-2628
ENNS BROTHERS
925 Lagimodiere Boulevard, Winnipeg, MB R2J 0V1
204-233-3667
info@ennsbros.com
Available at these fine dealers:
Leatherdale Marine
RR#7, 5571 Hwy 12 South
Orillia, ON
705.325.2249
www.leatherdalemarine.com
Martin Motor Sports
Toll Free 1.877.627.8468
West Edmonton, AB
780.481.4000
South Edmonton, AB
780.438.2484
Uxbridge Motorsports
Marine Ltd.
3 Douglas Rd.
Uxbridge, ON
905.852.5884
www.uxbridgemotorsports.com
Northland Recreation
1007 Cowan Park Road
Muskoka-Bracebridge, ON
705.769.3671
www.northlandrecreation.com
71
Sylvan M i r a g e 8 5 2 2 L Z
Boat Test #1256
Unique layout, pleasing performance.
P
ontoon design is about utilizing
space while creating comforts
for everyone on board. Pontoon
designers need to think about who is
using the boat, where they are using the
boat and how they are going to use the
boat.
Sylvan’s designers are no different.
They focus on what is important to the
customer and then they create the ideal
layout to meet the expectations of the
end user.
Sylvan’s designers also take into
consideration the use of quality parts
throughout their designs. They design
components that are easy to install to
ensure that their stellar work force can
maintain a high level of workmanship
while lowering warranty costs, which in
turn increases customer satisfaction and
create worry free boating each and every
time you use your Sylvan pontoon.
One way that Sylvan differentiates themselves from the others is the
use of quality materials where you can’t
see them and where it matters the most.
Sylvan uses ¾” plywood decks, 0.80”
gauge aluminum in their pontoon manufacturing and then backs it with a lifetime
warranty so that you can boat worry free.
Add in the optional 28 oz. carpet (22 oz.
std.), fiberglass helm console, rotocast
72
seat bases, and all aluminum transom and
you have created a pontoon that is built
with high quality materials and backed by
a company with a reputation for superior
workmanship.
The Mirage 8522 LR is the perfect
blend of high quality, a comfortable layout and performance while you are on the
water. Throw in an Evinrude 150 E-Tec
and you have created the ideal combination for enjoying countless hours on the
water. Imagine reaching top end speeds
of 33.3 mph at 5,100 rpms and having a
cruising speed of 17.8 mph at 3,000 rpms.
Imagine reaching 20 mph in a meer 4.94
seconds and planing out in 4.04 seconds.
Just when you thought a good thing
could not get any better, Sylvan’s designers created a layout with three high back
captain’s chairs on the port side for your
guests and a U-shaped lounger in the
stern. Need to add more seating to the
starboard lounger in the bow, no worries.
The middle of the U-shape seating can
be easily removed and reinstalled in the
bow to create a plush L-shaped lounger
in the bow.
Sylvan’s designers know that accessing the three step permanently mounted
swim ladder is something that you will do
on a routine basis. So, instead of putting
a small gate on the side of the boat they
created an oversized gate and placed it
right in the middle of the stern for safety.
Accessing the water could not be easier.
Creating a pontoon that consumers
want at an affordable price is not an easy
task, but Sylvan has perfected the process. They have combined technology,
innovation and superior craftsmanship to
deliver a boat that you, your friends and
most importantly your family will enjoy
for years to come.
Specifications
Length: Beam:
Weight : Capacity (persons) : Capacity (lbs) : Max HP/kw : Fuel Capacity: 23’10” / 7.15 m
102” / 2.55 m
2295 / 1043 kgs
12
2200 / 1000 kgs
150
30 gals / 108 L
For more information
Sylvan Marine
PO Box 65
New Paris, IN 46553
www.sylvanmarine.com
300
250 HO
250
225 HO
225
200 HO
200
175
150 HO
150
NEW 135 HO
130
115
90
75
60
50
40
30
20
15
SPECIAL SALES EVENTS UNTIL 15TH OF APRIL 2013
Free Rigging, RePower, Upgrade Buyers also receive $ incentives. Visit your local dealer to find out more. . .
Leatherdale Marine
Hwy 12 South, RR #7
Orillia, ON
705-325-2249
www.leatherdalemarine.com
TOP REASONS TO
REPOWER OR BUY
Terry Johnson’s
Hamer Bay Marina Ltd.
92 Hamer Bay Road
MacTier, ON 705-375-2232
www.hamerbaymarine.com
Campbell’s Landing Marina
1956 Hwy 169 RR#2
Gravenhurst, ON
705-687-3821
www.campbellslanding.ca
✔ MORE TIME ON THE WATER
✔ LESS WEIGHT
✔ HIGH TORQUE
Mobile Marine (2007) LTD.
235 Main Street West
Huntsville, Ontario
705-789-3932
www.mobilemarine.com
✔ LOWER EMISSIONS & NOISE
✔ RELIABLE STARTING
✔ PEACE OF MIND
Katrine Marine
86 Doe Lake Road
Katrine ON
705.382.3806
www.katrinemarine.ca
✔ LOWEST OPERATING COSTS
✔ LOW MAINTENANCE
✔ LESS FUEL
WHERE TO BUY A RINKER BOAT
Maple City Marine
Chatham, ON
519.354.3640
www.maplecitymarine.com
Bay Marine
Trenton, ON
613.394.6691
www.bay-marine.com
High River Autoplex & Marine
High River, AB
403.602.0071
www.autoplexrv.com
73
Yamaha V X C r u i s e r
Boat Test # 1257
Why mess with a good thing?
I
t was a couple of years ago that Yamaha
completely redesigned their VX series
of Waverunners, and since then the VX
Cruiser has gone on to be their most popular seller in their lineup of eleven personal
watercraft machines.
The VX series of Waverunners are all
made from the same hull and deck material - Yamaha’s proprietary NanoXcel High
Compression Molded Compound that is
both lighter and stronger than traditional fiberglass construction. Lighter weight
means a more responsive machine with
less horsepower and less rider input necessary to extract from the machine the performance you desire.
At 128 inches, the stepper draft v-hull
with an integrated bow spray guard sits
higher off the water than more performance- or sport-minded machines. That’s
important for a cruiser model. While it’s a
lot of fun to get wet – and you can make
this model get you and your passengers
wet if you want to! – it is also nice to be able
to stay dry if you’re cruising for the afternoon, or going for an all-day ride. That’s
true whether you’re a single rider or even
if you add the extra weight of a second or
third passenger. The center of gravity has
the VX Cruiser hull riding “on top” of the
water rather than “in” the water. This results
in a much drier ride at any speed.
74
The deck features a very comfortable seat
no matter which position you find yourself in
– so there won’t be as much fighting for who
gets to drive and who gets to be the passenger. (With three girls constantly competing
for “shotgun” when we go out anywhere,
this is important in a family-minded PWC.)
Surprisingly, it’s equally comfortable in the
second position when seated backwards
as the spotter. Below the deck is a handy
reboarding step to help get your watersports enthusiast back aboard easily.
But don’t think for a minute that the
lighter hull weight meant that Yamaha
could – or would – put in a lesser engine.
Not at all, the MR-1™ powerplant is a compact, four-cylinder, 1052cc, DOHC, 20-valve,
liquid-cooled engine that delivers what
Yamaha claims is the industry’s best fuel
efficiency in the three seater class. The
engine is also ultra-lightweight thanks to
the single piece engine block. The cylinder and crankcase assembly is specially
designed as one-piece, resulting in tremendous engine rigidity that’s both lighter and
stiffer than traditional two-piece engine
designs. The engine is lubricated by two oil
pumps both protected by a slant detection
switch that shuts down both the engine and
the oil pumps in the event of a rollover to
protect the engine from ingesting water.
The MR-1 engine also features a Low RPM
Mode (that can be triggered from the
remote) which can reduce the top speed by
30%. I especially like the mechanical neutral
gear that is an honest to goodness neutral
position. It’s so great for docking and touring so that you’re not having to shift into
and out of reverse constantly when you
just want to pause and check the charts - or
grab a beverage.
With this long list of features it’s no wonder why the VX Cruiser has become the
most popular Waverunner. It’s a familyfriendly, priced-right, fuel-efficient performer that’ll please both the parents and the
kids. It’s therefore no surprise that Yamaha
choose to make no significant changes for
2013. Why mess with a good thing?
- By Brad Roberts
Specifications
Length: 128.7” / 3.56m 27m
Beam: 46.4” / 1.17m
Fuel Capacity: 15.9 gal / 60.2L
Weight: 750 lbs / 340 kg
Rider capacity: 3
Engine: 1,052 cc, 4-stroke, in-line, 4 cylinder
Yamaha Motor Canada Ltd.
480 Gordon Baker Road,
Toronto, ON, M2H 3B4
www.yamaha-motor.ca
NEW FOR 2013
SUNLINER 240
PARTY PONTOON
C R O W N E • R O YA L • G R A N D M A R I N E R • S O L S T I C E
220 CRUISER
PONTOON’S FOR ALL DAY FUN!
• SUNLINER • CRUISER
290 RINKER
DOCKSIDE MARINE
Experience the Dockside Difference
770 Finns Road, Kelowna, BC
Phone: 250.765.3395
Toll free: 1.800.663.4737
www.docksidemarine.com
VIRDEN RECREATION &
WATERSPORTS
421 King Street, Virden, MB
Phone: 204.748.2060
Toll free: 888.877.7623
www.virdenrec.com
180 STINGRAY
POLAR KRAFT 180
BRYANT 198
SHUTTLE
CASINO RAMA
DAILY!
AVAILABLE
75
Yamaha
AR 192 Sportboat
Boat Test #1258
Unrivaled in her class.
U
nfortunately this past fall there
wasn’t a Yamaha Media day where
members of the press get a first-look
- and first-test - of the new-for-2013 models
of both boats and engines. Of course, that
maybe because Yamaha reps shared with us
that a new 2013 model simply wasn’t available anywhere in Canada, and wouldn’t be
until darn near January. They were hoping
it would arrive just in time for the Toronto
Boat Show. Fingers crossed.
So it looks like both you the reader and I
the Editor will get to see the new model at
about the same time. And we’ll both have
to wait till break up next spring to really test
it. Fortunately, I did get an extensive test
last year on their then-new SX190 sportboat, a sistership to the AR190.
The 2013 AR192 is the wake board tower
version of the SX 192 sportboat. Both models have at their heart a supercharged and
intercooled version of Yamaha’s time-proven and simply wonderful to drive marine
powerplant. This 4-stroke, 4-cylinder,
1812cc, 16-valve engine creates - with just
four cylinders - more pep and power than a
typical six cylinder engine while preserving
the fuel economy that four cylinder engines
are known for and that everyone is after
these days. This engine is specific-built for
this boat – it’s not a marinized version of
some other Yamaha engine. It sits low in
76
the bilge and doesn’t intrude into the cockpit, and there’s still plenty of space around it
for servicing.
Both the AR 192 and the SX 192 are single engine boats. Single engine jet powered boats to be more precise. The stream
of water is tons of fun out in the open, and
the lack of a sterndrive means a shallower
draft and a safer experience overall. But
get into close quarters around a dock and
you’ll find that maneuvering with a water
jet is in actual practice sort of a controlled
slide with about as much real traction as
dress shoes on ice. In comes Yamaha’s very
intuitive (as long as you remember to turn
it on!) 3-speed “No Wake Mode” and new
Thrust Directional Enhancer technology.
Combined, they increase the engine rpms
and direct water flow at an optimum angle
creating more responsive handling as the
wheel is turned at slow speeds. It takes only
a couple of tries at docking to look and feel
like a pro. Plus it’s fun!
With the engine small and low in the
bilge, the space gained from where a typical larger sterndrive engine would be is
well used and Yamaha boasts more interior
space than any other nineteen foot boat on
the market. Of course there’s no sunpad
over the engine, so the swim platform seats
- that are so unique to Yamaha boats - back
right up against the stern seatback in the
cockpit. Twin mid-back helm and captain
chairs, and large forward seating in the bow
provides space for up to 8 people.
Last year I recorded a time to plane of a
surprising 3 seconds with the non-supercharged and intercooled version of this
engine, so I expect less than 2 seconds from
zero to gone – but actual results will have to
wait till spring.
Taking a page from Henry Ford, the
AR192 comes in only two colours: red and
black, and there are no available options
except to upgrade the standard painted
trailer to a galvanized one. Marketing
simplicity. Now if they can just get one
here in time.
- By Brad Roberts
Specifications
Length: Beam: Draft: Weight: Fuel Capacity: Capacity: 19’ 2” / 5.75 m
8’ / 2.4 m
14”
2,176 lbs.
30 gals / 114 litres
8 persons
Yamaha Motor Canada Ltd.
480 Gordon Baker Road,
Toronto, ON, M2H 3B4
www.yamaha-motor.ca
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PBC MAINSTREAM
brad roberts
Trent-Severn and
Rideau Waterway
Announcement
The Honourable Peter Kent, Canada’s Minister of the Environment
and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, announced back in October
the 2013 navigation season for historic canals and Trent-Severn
Waterway.
“National Historic canals are a defining feature of Canada, and provide communities and regions with beauty, recreation and a unique
sense of history,” said Minister Kent. “I am pleased to announce
that the 2013 navigation season will continue from Victoria Day to
Thanksgiving, as in previous years.”
Parks Canada will continue providing ‘upon arrival’ services
throughout the peak summer period, and offer a modified service
seven days a week through scheduled lockages in the spring and
fall period. For the canals 2013 navigation season, Parks Canada
will align its hours of operation and personal service offer to better
reflect patterns of use, offering between 7 and 9 hours of service
per day.
“With this decision, the canals and the surrounding communities
will continue flourishing as a vibrant centre of our regions,” added
Minister Kent. “The government appreciated the constructive feedback we received from the public, and was pleased to work with the
local Members of Parliament, Mayors, business leaders, and stakeholders, to determine a workable schedule going forward that is affordable
while minimizing the impact on the local economies and visitors.”
Parks Canada will continue its stewardship of cultural and environmental resources providing meaningful experiences that promote
understanding and appreciation of Canada, and supporting local communities through tourism – as it has done for the last 100 years.
For hours of operation on the Rideau visit: http://www.pc.gc.ca/
eng/lhn-nhs/on/rideau/visit/visit2.aspx ; for hours of operation on the
Trent-Severn system visit: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/on/trentsevern/visit/visit3.aspx
Canada’s Marine Assistance Network
Canada’s
Canada’s Marine
Marine Assistance
Assistance Network
Network
C-Tow Marine Assistance Ltd. Since 1984
C-Tow
C-Tow Marine
Marine Assistance
Assistance Ltd.
Ltd. Since
Since 1984
1984
24HR VESSEL TOWING
24
24HR
HR V
VESSEL
ESSEL T
TOWING
OWING
MARINE ASSISTANCE
M
MARINE
ARINE A
ASSISTANCE
SSISTANCE
78
Peace of Mind at Sea
Peace
Peace of
of Mind
Mind at
at Sea
Sea
Helping Snowbird Boaters Avoid
THE US TAX MAN
Staying too long in one place can ruin
a good thing. At least that’s the case with
boaters making lengthy journeys, who
are finding themselves targets of cashhungry US states when they stay too long
and are subject to various taxes. But how
can boaters prevent overstaying their
welcome? Boat Owners Association of
The United States (BoatUS) has online
state tax information at www.BoatUS.
com/gov/states that will help keep them
on the right side of the law and out of hot
water with the taxman.
In most states, a privately-owned recreational boat must be registered in the
state where it is principally used, and any
sales and use taxes paid to that state.
A problem arises when the boat leaves
this principal-use state and enters a new
one, for a long visit, extended cruise
or lengthy repairs. This could include
“Snowbirds” - boaters who head south
each winter in search of warmer climates.
BoatUS says travelling boaters may
be subject to various sales, use, excise,
or property taxes when they remain in
one location for a consecutive number of
days, or over-stay their visit for a certain
number of aggregate days per year. This
“grace period” is often 60 to 90 days but
as little as 30 days in two states (CO, NH).
Also, if the principal state’s sales and use
tax is not comparable to the tax in the
state the boat is visiting, the second state
can levy their own tax making the boat
owner liable for the difference.
To help boaters understand this issue,
BoatUS’ online map at www.BoatUS.com/
gov/states highlights state sales and
property tax rates with links to state tax
departments, as well as registration information and “grace periods”.
In the past, BoatUS has heard about
tax authorities walking the docks,
inspecting marina records and aggressively enforcing tax codes. “We believe
boaters should pay their fair share of
taxes, and travel to other states with their
eyes open about timelines and potential
tax assessments,” said BoatUS President
Margaret Podlich. “Boaters should keep
record keeping such as log entries, marina and fuel receipts or repair contracts
while traveling. These documents are
critical for boaters to keep, and are often
the only way to fight an unjust tax bill,”
added Podlich.
Tiller 18 W SC
Raised Deck 22
Where to buy a Stanley Boat:
Hastings Marine
RR#3, 1456 Drysdale Road
Norwood, ON
705.696.2366
hastings-marine@hastingsmarine.com
Bridge Yachts
49 Harbour Street
Port Dover, ON
519.583.3199
www.bridgeyachts.com
79
PBC MAINSTREAM
CANADIAN POWERBOAT CHAMPION
earns 2013 season sponsor
Mercury-Canada is once again pleased to announce their involvement in creating history by sponsoring Canadian powerboat champion, Tammy Wolf. Tammy will be the first Canadian women to compete in the SST 200 class in North America.
Powerboat racing is the most exhilarating sport in the
world. Drivers, teams, and equipment are constantly tested. Each
lap is different, drivers not only compete against each other, but
also against the ever changing water and wind conditions. Boats
reach the turn buoy at speeds up to 110 mph and in a split second;
they accelerate out to the next turn while riding on a cushion of air. Mercury-Canada and Tammy Wolf Racing have developed an
aggressive Formula 2 program for 2013. The team believes in
being environmentally responsible and with Mercury’s guidance
they chose to compete with a low-emission, high-performance,
2.5 Liter, Mercury OptiMax 200XS SST (Super Sport Tunnel) outboard. Mercury’s OptiMax engines are an affordable, competitive
engine which is clean and green. Mercury is the leader in the marine industry and dominating in
the racing and high-performance division. In 2011, Mercury was
awarded the Environmental Award for Economic Feasibility and
Sustainability by the Union International Motonautique (U.I.M.).
Engines like the OptiMax allow professional powerboat racing teams
Visit us at the Toronto International Boat Show - Booth 662
DRY YOUR WORLD
AND PREVENT MOULD, MILDEW
AND FUEL CONTAMINATION
INFINITELY RENEWABLE
*DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOMED
H2OUT SYSTEMS CANADA
Division of Quinte Canvas
Kingston, Ontario
H2OutCanada.com
1-800-268-4186
80
to compete while being environmentally responsible.
The 2013 season will be Tammy’s first full season racing in
the Formula 2 class. Tammy is no stranger to success on the race
course. She is the top female tunnel boat racer in Formula 3, the
first runner-up in the series points race in the American Powerboat
Superleauge, and the 2011 Divisional Champion and 2010 Regional
Champion.
Mercury - Canada joined forces with Tammy earlier this year
to challenge the River Siene at the worlds toughest tunnel boat
race, the 24 hours of Rouen, in France. Tammy and her team of
international women powered there Mercury OptiMax engine to
an incredible 4th place finish. “It’s a dream come true. We wouldn’t be able to create a
Formula 2 program without Mercury’s support. It is fantastic when
an amazing company, like Mercury - Canada not only supports
your dreams, but allows you the honor of representing them, their
products, employees and dealers. I plan to make Georges Jalbert
and Mercury proud of our team and their commitment to us,” said
Tammy Wolf
Formula 2 powerboat racing (a.k.a. SST 200) currently competes
throughout the world including two major series in the American
Power Boat Association (A.P.B.A), as well as, the World Cup in Europe
(U.I.M). With the recent addition of a Canadian event, the team is
working on finalizing race dates in the USA, Canada and Europe for
2013.
“It’s wonderful to support our Canadian drivers and teams not
only in North American but on the world-wide stage. We believe in
our products, their performance and showcasing them in the toughest conditions possible. We are extremely excited to work with this
team, Tammy and her family have had a long standing relationship with Mercury and it’s employee’s.” Georges Jalbert, General
Manager, Mercury - Canada
You can see Mercury - Canada’s Formula 2 powerboat showcased
at Canada’s Premier boat show the Toronto International Boat Show,
January 12 - 20, 2013 at the Direct Energy Centre.
MERCURY INTRODUCES
new inflatables
Mercury Marine introduced a new line of versatile and stylish inflatable boats at the 2012 Ft. Lauderdale International
Boat Show. The first model in the series, the 18-foot M570,
comes standard with a Mercury 115hp FourStroke.
The M Series features complete boat packages with sleek,
new console designs, superior storage capacity and innovative
new construction materials. The industry-leading fit and finish
of this boat makes it ideal for virtually all boating lifestyles.
“We have been anticipating the launch of the new M Series
because we are proud of the new features and technology
used to manufacture these models. The streamlined console
and ample storage make them the ideal vessel for everything
from everyday use to yacht tending,” said Eric Reilley, global
product manager for Mercury Inflatable Boats. “The hull is manufactured with a new fiberglass technique, which makes the
boat much lighter without sacrificing strength or durability.”
Additional models in the M Series include the 17-foot M525
featuring a Mercury 90hp FourStroke and the 20-foot M620
featuring a 150 FourStroke. Both models will be available in
2013. The M570 model is now available at authorized Mercury
Inflatable Boat dealers. THIS ISN’T YOUR
TYPICAL YELLOW
WATERCRAFT
We know how important your weekends are. That’s
why we’ve dedicated the last 26 years to building
the best performing, most reliable personal
watercraft on the planet. We could try to convince
you that this is true or let our back-to-back IJSBA
World Titles speak for themselves!
When it’s time to hit the water, rest assured that
Yamaha’s reliable, durable and easy-to-operate
WaveRunners are ready to perform when it counts.
Available at:
Parkway Yamaha
Collingwood, ON
705.445.7707
www.parkwayyamaha.ca
FZS
Hastings Marine
RR#3, 1456 Drysdale Rd.
Norwood, ON
705.696.2366
hastings-marine@
hastingsmarine.com
yamaha-motor.ca
FZ Series
FX Series
VX Performance Series
VX Series
81
PBC MAINSTREAM
Victoria International
Marina receives approvals
WAM Development Group and its
Community Marine Concepts Ltd. partnership have received approvals from
Transport Canada and the Department of
Fisheries and Oceans for the construction
of the Victoria International Marina.
“The project has already received
municipal and provincial approvals, and
these federal approvals are significant
milestones in the approval process,” said
Larry Halgren, who recently joined the
Victoria International Marina project team.
Under the Navigable Waters Act, the
federal navigable waters permit process
ensures harbour development does not
interfere with maritime navigation, and
that appropriate navigation aids are used
and maintained during and after project
construction.
The habitat authorization approval process assesses the impact of development
on marine habitat under the Fisheries Act.
Permit approval requires mitigation measures, monitoring effects and compensation plans are put in place to conserve fish
habitat.
“It’s great to see receive the Habitat
Authorization permit, as our biologists
have been working with the Department
of Fisheries and Oceans to ensure
marine life is protected and habitat is
improved over the course of the develop-
BAYVIEW PROPELLER REPAIR
“WE REPAIR WHAT OTHERS CAN’T”
LET US OPTIMIZE YOUR PERFORMANCE
WE REPAIR & REPLACE
• Propellers
• Struts
• Rudders
• Shafts
• Gear Cases
• Skegs
832 NORTHEY’S BAY ROAD (705) 654-3545
WOODVIEW, ONTARIO K0L 3E0 (705) 654-4409 • FAX (705) 654-4611
We offer
a computer assisted
propeller sizing service
82
email: bayview.propeller@sympatico.ca
www.bayviewpropeller.ca
ment of the marina,” said Halgren. “We’ll be removing 100-year-old wood
waste from the seabed and planting three
eelgrass beds along the north shore of the
harbour, just west of the marina between
Lime Bay and Colville Island.”
The marina project has been the subject of seven years of intense analysis and
examination by leading environmental
and navigation specialists from government and the private sector. In 2010,
the original 52 slip design of the project
received Transport Canada navigation
and environmental approvals. However, in
September 2011 when the City subsequently down-zoned the Crown waterlot
where the marina docks are to be located,
the developers reduced the size of the
marina to 29 slips to conform with the
new zoning. As a result, they were also
required to re-submit the application for a
new navigable waters permit.
“We now hope to submit a building permit application to the City of Victoria later
this year,” said Halgren. “This project will
contribute to a healthy working harbour
and we’re excited to see it progressing.”
Anyone who would like further information about the marina and the approval
process can visit www.marinafacts.ca. For
those interested in reserving a slip, please
visit www.victoriainternationalmarina.ca.
Gordon Elliot
PASSES
It is with heartfelt sadness that Campion
Marine announced the passing on November
4th, 2012, of our Chairman, Gordon Elliott,
F.C.A., at the age of 82. Brock Elliott, President
and son said, “It is difficult to find the words
for such an announcement. Our Dad was
such a great leader, his life filled to the brim,
very diverse and rewarding. He made lasting
impressions with so many people; from his
professional accounting career, to his strong
interest in agriculture, farming and ranching,
to the power boat industry.”
Gordon passed away unexpectedly at the
age of 82. He will be sadly missed by his wife
Pat, his sons and their families: Mark (Sylvia),
Carlyn (Ben), Blair and Kelsey; Brock (Leona);
Ross (Dolores), Leanne (Matt), Tanis
(Andrew) and Denise; Guy (Kathy), Melissa
and Laura; and Kent (Carole) Elise, Stefan,
Justin and Claire; and his daughter and her
family, Jan Filippelli (Tony) Danielle, Elliott,
Melia, Shane, Seyarra. He will also be missed
by his two great-granddaughters Ella and
Emily and his close sister-in-law, Jolyne and
niece, Susan.
Gordon graduated from King Edward High
School in 1948. In 1955 Gordon started his
career in accounting in Vancouver with Rudd
and Goold and in two short years was promoted to partner. Gordon and Pat moved
their family to Kamloops in 1958 and the firm
became Rudd, Goold and Elliott. Gordon
continued to build the practice, returning to
Vancouver 14 years later as the managing
partner of a much larger accounting firm,
then known as Jarrett, Goold, and Elliott. In
1981 this firm merged with Price Waterhouse
and shortly thereafter, Gordon and Pat were
asked to relocate to Toronto, with Gordon
assuming the role of managing partner of the
firm’s national office. He served in this capacity until his retirement from public practice
in 1992, after which he and Pat returned to
the west coast and settled on Bowen Island.
Gordon volunteered extensively in his CA profession and was elected to the ICABC Council,
Dundas Marine Ltd.
45 Dundas Street East,
Waterdown, ON
905 522.4081
info@dundasmarine.ca
www.dundasmarine.ca
ultimately serving a 1973-1974 term as the
Institute president. Gordon became an FCA
in 1974 and was honoured with a Lifetime
Achievement Award from the Institute of
Chartered Accountants in 2008.
Gordon was also a founding shareholder
of Campion Marine Inc. and a Chairman of the
Board. His community involvement included
being a member of the Salvation Army BC
Advisory Board. He was past President of
the National Miniature Donkey Association
of North America. He played a key role in the
Ontario Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and was
a proud supporter of children in 4H Clubs.
On Bowen Island, Gordon served on the
Boaard of Directors of the Volunteer Fire
Department. In lieu of flowers, donations to
the Salvation Army, Canuck Place, Looking
Glass Foundation would be gratefully appreciated. We will greatly miss his love and passion for life, his ambition for excellence and
his daily list of things that must get done. He
loved having his family around him and lived
his life with many passions; he will always
be remembered for family, business, agriculture and boating. A memorial Service to celebrate his life was held Friday, November 9 at
2:00pm at Seymour Golf & Country Club, 3723
Mount Seymour Parkway, North Vancouver. Extreme Speed
9th Street West,
Meadow Lake, SK,
306-236-3009
www.extremespeed.ca
83
ANDREWS TRUCKING
THE EXPERTS in Yacht Transporting.
HYDRAULIC TRAILER SERVICE UP TO 50’
Large or Small Power or Sail.
R.R. 4, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
email: transport@andrewstrucking.com
NO CHARGE DIALING
1-800-263-7140
MARINE CRADLE SHOP
FACTORY DIRECT
•
•
•
•
•
•
Trailer Parts
Roller or Bunk
Launching Dollies
Single or Dual Axle
Cradles
Tripods
(905) 294-3507
52 Ellisview Rd. Sutton West, ON L0E 1R0
www.cradleridetrailers.com
301 Watson St. Whitby, ON VHF 68
905-668-1900 Email marina@whitby.ca
• 420 quality floating slips
(up to 70’ in length) spacious
channels
• First Class 6000 SF Clubhouse
Privacy
3 PC Showers, & Laundry facilities
• Card Access security
• Fuel Waste Pump-outs
• 50 ton Travel Lift
• Social & Reciprocal Memberships
available.
July 5-6
Outaouais River Festival
Prescott-Russell/Hawkesbury, ON
July 12-13
The Bay of Quinte
Belleville, ON
July 19-20
Gananoque (4th Annual)
Gananoque, ON
August 9-10
1000 Islands
Kingston, ON
FOR PROSTATE CANCER
84
The All-New AR192
Available at:
CO2 Inflatables
285 Wyecroft Rd.,
Oakville, ON
905-844-4386
www.co2inflatables.com
Parkway Yamaha
Collingwood, ON
705-445-7707
www.parkwayyamaha.ca
Monto Reno
1111 Killarney Beach Rd.,
Lefroy, ON L0L 1W0
(705) 456-2122
1-888-689-7971
www.montoreno.com
yamaha-motor.ca
190 Series
210 Series
212 Series
240 Series
242 Series
PBC AD INDEX
Andrews Trucking .......................84
Evinrude ...................................... 5, 73
Mercury .......................................... IBC
Snap On............................................ 15
Bayview Propeller ........................82
Genco ................................................53
Miami International
Stanley Boats .................................79
Bennington .....................................51
Gevril ................................................... 9
Boat Show..........................................45
Starcraft .....................................39, 67
Best Western ..................................75
H2Out Systems .............................80
Monto Reno Marina ....................38
Stingray Boats.................................. 7
Big Orange ......................................84
Harris FloteBote ............................ 75
Northstar Insurance ....................19
Striper Boats ...................................54
BRP Sea Doo PWC ........................53
Hastings Marina ............................47
PBC Rendez-vous
Sunchaser ........................................43
BRP Sea Doo
Honda ...............................................35
Schedule .......................................... 84
Sylvan ................................................11
Sportboats ......................................71
Larson Boats ...................................25
PBC Subscription ...................77, 80
Toronto International
C-Tow ................................................78
Leisure Marine ...............................75
Port Whitby Marina .....................84
Boat Show .......................................30
Campion Boats ..............................83
Lowe Boats .....................................64
Premier Pontoons ........................17
Vancouver International
Canada Propeller ..........................79
Manitou Pontoon ........................27
Princecraft Boats ..........................29
Boat Show .......................................40
City of Kingston ............................78
Marine Cradle Shop ....................84
Rinker Boats/
Volvo ..................................................21
CMC Electronics ............................23
MD Insurance .................................13
Godfrey ......................................31, 73
Yamaha Waverunner .................81
Cobalt Boats ................................. IFC
Maple City Marina .................36, 55
Run The Wave .........................48, 49
Yamaha Sportboat ...............61, 85
CV-Tech ............................................82
Mastercraft Boats .........................71
Skippers’ Plan................................... 8
Yamaha Outboard ............54, OBC
85
PBC LIFE AFLOAT
brad roberts
What’s Changed?
Reflecting on the past five years.
A
s I put the finishing touches on
this my fifth test issue (gulp!), I
got to thinking. As an Editor, I pay
close attention to what I refer to
as ‘the fairness factor’. I am constantly asking myself questions like “Am
I favouring one boat manufacturer over
another?,” or “In terms of column inches
and accompanying photos, is one engine
builder getting more exposure that the
rest?” While I never want to be accused of
unfair treatment, to be sure I can only talk
about what they give me. No new product, less exposure.
Those of you who know me, also know
that I’m a bit of a statistics guy. I watch the
numbers, because as my stats prof Dr. Vern
Shafer in university told us, ‘the numbers
don’t lie’. Yes it is true that the numbers
can be skewed or tweeked, and in political circles they often fall prey to the ‘spindoctors’. Nonetheless, the overall numbers
merely reflect the undeniable trends.
Take for example a quick glance back
to the test issue of five years ago. Back
then Bayliner made cruisers and we tested
one. Stingray didn’t have a single outboard powered boat in their lineup. Doral
Boats was still in the picture. There were
four personal watercraft manufacturers.
Outboards were smaller, catalytic sterndrives weren’t even on the horizon. While
not a statistically representative sample of
the industry, we tested in that issue thirteen outboard models and a dozen sterndrive or inboard powered models – almost
a 50/50 ratio. Seventeen boats were under
thirty feet and there were eight yachts over
thirty feet.
In this test issue it’s an entirely different
story. This year, almost everything my test
team and I tested was outboard powered over 20 boats made the cut and into print.
It was hard to find a new yacht or cruiser
anywhere, and so just seven sterndrives or
inboards made it into this issue. All tests
86
are on under thirty foot boats. It’s hard
to deny the trend in the industry towards
smaller outboard powered boats.
I don’t just report on what’s out there
and what’s going on. I endeavor to
research and question the issues and stories to give you our readers the depth of
understanding and analysis you deserve,
rather than a mere surface skim. So as
I reflected on this trend, I asked myself
‘why?’ The answer I eventually came up
with was that despite the difficult economic times that families, dealers and manufacturers alike are facing, collectively we
are simply not ready to stop doing what
we love so much. The all-mighty dollar
casts the deciding vote. In answer to how
buyers are voting, the manufacturers are
giving us what we want. Our boats maybe
smaller, our engines more fuel efficient,
lengths maybe more garage-able, and curb
weights may be down so that we can tow
our pride and joy to the launch ramp with
our daily commuter that is perhaps the
single family vehicle. But as Canadians
who’ve grown up on and in our glorious
lakes and rivers, we categorically and outright refuse to give up and trim the household budget down to where boating isn’t
an option, denying us the ability to pass on
this love to our children.
Simply put, in this Life Afloat, the call
of the water is - and will always be stronger. h
Horsepower Range 2.5 • 3.5 • 4 • 6 • 8 • 9.9 • 15 • 20 • 25 • 30 • 40 • 50 • 60 • 75 • 90 • 115 • 150
FourStrokes
of Genius
Mercury FourStrokes’ in-line Electronic Fuel-Injected (EFI) design
delivers incredible torque and power while reducing fuel
consumption and emissions in to the environment. In fact, all
Mercury FourStrokes tout an environment friendly CARB 3-Star
ultra low emissions rating. A new Precision Engineered Shift
System delivers a smooth, effortless driving experience,
while our Engine Guardian System gives you peace of mind
with more than 40 sensors monitoring your engine
functions to ensure each minute you spend on the water
is unforgettable. Now that’s genius.
mercurymarine.com
Visit mercurymarine.com for more test results. © 2012 MERCURY MARINE. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.
FROM MORNING
TO NIGHT
Yamaha outboards won’t quit when it matters most. Our impressive
family of engines is designed to handle long days on the water.
Durable and reliable, Yamaha outboards always get you home.
Introducing the all-new F200! Equipped with Yamaha’s (VCT) Variable
Camshaft Timing System, this 2.8-litre, 16-valve powerhouse offers quick
acceleration and outstanding performance. Lightweight, compact and
incredibly powerful, this engine is perfect for just about every type of boat.
From the extremely portable F2.5 to the mighty V8 F350, Yamaha has
the right outboard for you.
The All-New F200
yam

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