Fleming 65 | Absolute Navetta 48 | Tracker Targa V-19 WT - 04/29/20
BoatTEST Newsletter April 29, 2020
Luxury crossovers were first introduced about 6 years ago, and now nearly a dozen builders offer them. Note the “Spring Deals” that are available on some of them. These luxurious models often have mini galleys, double berths, stand up heads, and even seating below, and are displayed on our “Luxury Crossover” docks at VirtualBOATSHOW.com. To visit the boat show – admittance is free – click here...
VirtualBOATSHOW.com Luxury Crossover Docks
New Technical Video
Fleming Yachts 65:
A Remarkably-Equipped Expedition Yacht
The Fleming 65 is a long-range cruiser designed to be at sea for weeks at a time. This means having redundant systems, and monitoring electronics that display the pulse of each system on one screen, making it easy for an owner/operator to stay on top of a complex vessel. For example, the helm has the primary steering, but if that malfunctions, there’s a backup system with its own hydraulic pump. In the unlikely event that both go down, the Autopilot — with its own pump — is the third steering system. On the back of one of the engines, there’s a clutched power take off and both engines have second alternators, to produce nearly twice the electrical charge. The primary units charge the engine-start batteries, while the secondary units power the house batteries.
Fleming’s proprietary ship’s monitoring system was created by one of the most sophisticated third parties in the business, and its primary customers are commercial shipping. Because the unit monitors the vital signs of all major systems, there are “early warning” indicators of something going wrong, so the operator can mitigate the anomaly before it becomes a serious problem. More...
Spring Deal
Formula 380 SSC Outboard:
Luxury Crossover Sleeps Four
The Formula 380 Super Sport Crossover fills gap between the manufacturer’s 350 Crossover Bowriders and the larger 400 SSC models. The 380 SSC is available with outboard or sterndrive power and continues Formula’s open-bow, full-cabin concept. For entertaining, the cockpit, helm deck and bow are all on the same level with connected SmartZone seating. The fiberglass hardtop has a full-width motorized glass sunroof. Belowdecks, there’s sleeping space for four plus a galley and enclosed head with private shower. Note the large swim platform where watersports can be launched from port or starboard. Formula tells us that they have cost-saving “Spring Deals” available nation-wide on this model. More...
Test Video
Absolute Navetta 48:
A Sharp Forefoot for Smooth Riding
The Absolute Navetta 48’s sharp forefoot can cut through waves and keep the deck dry.
The smallest boat in the Absolute Yachts fleet, the Navetta 48, is designed to provide a comfortable ride in less-than-ideal conditions. It does that with a super sharp forefoot that slices through waves rather than pounding into them. During our test, we encountered 8- to 15-knot winds and 4’ (1.22 m) seas and the boat’s sharp entry and cut through waves, and the hard chines knocking aside spray with condescension. We recorded a top speed of 26.7 knots at 3550 rpm and best cruise was 18.7 knots at 3000 rpm. She can travel 272.1 nautical miles at this speed. Slow down to displacement speed of 7 knots where her full waterline length of 48’11” (14.93 m) is below the surface and the range extends to 600 NM. More...
Test Video
Tracker Targa V-19 WT:
Multi-Species Boat w/ Family Options
At 19’10” (6.05 m) long with an 8’6” (2.59 m) beam, the Targa V-19 WT is the flagship of the Tracker Boats multi-species fleet. She’s equipped with a Lowrance Hook2 7 fishfinder and a trolling motor with 70 lbs. of thrust (31.75 kg), plus the requisite list of fishing gear like a livewell and lockable rod storage. For family time, she can also be optioned with seat bottom cushions in the bow and a ski tow pylon that threads in place in the stern. She’s still priced at $35,995 with a Mercury 150-hp outboard. More...
Schedule a Test Drive Dealer Contact Request Pricing Request
Boating Access
Washington to Reopen Boat Ramps
Washington’s recreational fishing season opens in early May.
Washington governor Jay Inslee issued an order to re-open state boat ramps on May 5. That will be followed by a plan to slowly start the state’s recreational fishing seasons. This is big news because Washington was one of the last states to have a ban on fishing and boating. Both activities continue to be one of the best ways for families to practice social distancing and to get outdoors and get some much-needed fresh air. More...
Boating Access
Miami-Dade Ramps Open Today
During a news conference on Monday afternoon, Miami-Dade mayor Carlos Gimenez released details of a new executive order, outlining the rules and regulations for conduct when boating and waterways are re-opened today. The rules apply to all water-related activities including charter vessels, kayaking and canoeing, boat ramps, fish cleaning stations, fishing piers, public restrooms and ship stores. More...
Boating Access
Palm Beach County Opens Marinas and Ramps
Boaters in Palm Beach County will be excited to get back on the water.
Marinas and boat ramps in Palm Beach County, Fla., also opened today at 12:01 a.m., according to an executive order made by mayor Dave Kerner. Water-based activities including kayaking, fishing, water skiing and wake boarding and surfing will all be allowed as long as physical distances are maintained. More...
BoattestLEASING:
Looking for Boats To Lease
Boston Whaler 285 Conquest
Chaparral 300 OSX
BoattestLEASING is now looking for late-model, premium boats from 26’ to 35’ (7.92 m to 10.66 m) to lease to like-minded boaters in the eastern U.S. Boat Leasing is now trending strongly, given the times we live in. Boats are a safe and healthy way for a family to have fun outside and at the same time maintain social distancing. By leasing unused days in a boat, owners are utilizing a valuable asset for a financial return on the investment. BoatTEST’s leasing program helps boat owners pay down their boat loan, as well as to cover a portion of annual operating costs. To find out more, contact General Manager Greg Sweeney at 727-200-3474 or [email protected].
BoattestLEASING Website I Have a Boat to Lease
Safe, Healthy Boating,
Wave of the Future
He is ready to go with his life jacket.
Send your pictures in that show “Safe, Healthy Family Boating” to [email protected]. Each week, we’ll pick a winner who will receive a coveted BoatTEST hat personally signed by Capt. Steve.
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