FOR A YOUNG FAMILY. The Aquador 300HT has isinglass hidden in the port and starboard roof pilasters until it's needed. Then, it can be pulled out and totally surround the aft deck in a jiffy. She sleeps four below and the aft banquette can be turned into a double.
TEST VIDEO. Capt. Trip takes a 65-mph test ride on a day with SCAs and finds the FX Cruiser SVHO more than up to the conditions. The 7-inch Connext touchscreen allows for multi-function control and docking is easy with the handlebar-mounted RiDE system.
TRAWLER TUESDAY. With a single 380-hp Cummins QSB 6.7L diesel, the Helmsman 43E has a range over 1,000 NM 7.6 knots. Her size limits her to coastal operation, but she’d make a good Great Looper for a couple or a family of four. A standard bow thruster eases docking and interior woodworking is exceptional.
PRE-OWNED YACHT. This Tiara is in excellent condition and is packed with upgrades including a Seakeeper 9, Bluewater watermaker and a custom inverter system. The three-stateroom, two-head layout checks all the boxes for the whole family to have comfort and room in an yacht that will stay new-looking for ages.
TECH TUESDAY. The right propellers make all the difference in hole shot, top end and load carrying capacity of any boat/motor combination. Here are some reminders of how pitch, diameter and the number of blades, among other factors, go together to determine performance.
BOAT BUILDING. Marine audio speakers look deceptively simple, but building them is a complex technical operation. Here’s a detailed video of how it’s done at JL Audio, provided by the team at Sportsman Boats, which uses them exclusively in their line. (JL Audio was just acquired by Garmin.)
TRAWLER TUESDAY. The Venture heads south from Sitka, exploring the maze of islands and hidden bays that make up the remote exposed west coast of Baranof Island. The sea varies from mirrored fjords to crashing rockbound headlands and numerous narrows call for careful navigation.
Life is definitely better on a boat, so long as you don't bite your tongue!
Every day, we feature a new Life is Better on a Boat photo. Submit yours for the chance to win a coveted BoatTEST hat! Bonus points for showing people enjoying life on a boat.)
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