Formula’s Secret Formula | Ranger Tugs R-25 | How to Drive a Cat - 08/06/21

New Video

The Formula Ownership Experience

is on Another Level

Recently, BoatTEST’s Capt. Steve sat down with two new owners of Formula Boats to get a feel for their “after-delivery experience.” We interviewed two couples – one has owned 15 boats – so they know the difference between a good experience and an excellent one. The other owner is also a veteran cruiser and he had high expectations. We asked them both why they bought a Formula and then what happened after they took ownership. The answers might surprise you. More...

Editor's Report

Ranger Tugs R-25

New Swim Platform Enhances Utility

Ranger Tugs pioneered the outboard-powered mini-tug concept and the R-25 takes the concept in a new direction. A good example is the new 20-sq.-ft. (1.86 sq. m) Clear-Path swim platform that wraps around the outboard to create a walkway free of engine rigging and other obstructions. It has heavy-duty handrails and lets users safely board a dinghy, land a fish or just hang out. Her cockpit has space for a post-cruise cocktail with friends and below she sleeps four. More...

Test Video

Ocean Alexander 28R

Hi-Tech Materials and Construction For Quiet Running Underway

Ocean Alexander uses the same construction techniques for the 90’2” (27.48 m) 28R as on its larger motoryachts, utilizing infused vinylester resin and high-density structural foam. The higher density provides greater resistance to temperatures and improved thermal and acoustic insulation. Special attention is paid to reducing sound and vibration including isolation barriers, reflective, absorptive and dampening materials. Crosslink carbon is used in high-stress areas and stringers, cross frames and watertight bulkheads are cored with foam. Aluminum beams support the decks, bulkheads and overheads. She’s finished with epoxy-based primers and Alexseal polyurethane. More...

Sponsored Content

SeaKits Damage Control Kit

Don’t Leave the Dock Without It

Maritime Training Coordinator Will Williamson of the Resolve Maritime Academy agrees – SeaKits provides boaters with all the tools they need, when they need them, for handling emergency scenarios on the water. With the SeaKits Damage Control Kit, boaters can avoid disaster and get home safely when the unexpected strikes. From hull breaches to flooding to electronics equipment failure, SeaKits gives you the power to prevent total catastrophe. Each kit is packed with over 20 pounds of durable, top-of-the-line equipment to ensure you get home safely. See Will’s testimonial here: “You are your emergency response.”

Test Video

Yamaha AR195

Package Deal – No Options Needed

Yamaha positioned the 19’5” (5.92 m) AR195 to be a jet-powered runabout for a family that isn’t interested in having to pick every individual option. She comes standard with a folding sport tower and a Bimini top, an integrated swim platform with wraparound backrests and cleanout access for the jet pump. The helm features a 4.3” (10.92 cm) Connext multifunction display and to make her easier to handle at slow speeds, No Wake Mode sets engine speed to maximize thrust in no-wake zones. Finally, she comes packaged with a painted trailer.

More...

Boating Tips

How to Handle a Power Cat Like a Pro

Power catamarans offer some advantages over their monohull counterparts and there are some disadvantages as well. Power cats typically offer superior efficiency and stability, a softer ride and more deck space and, when it comes to handling, they are a different animal. Click to learn the tips to tame one. More...

“Life is short and it’s here to be lived.”

– Kate Winslet

Chilling out on a boat with family and friends is one of life’s great joys. SBC can put those experiences in your life at an affordable price in a premium boat.  Annual memberships in boats ranging from 27’ to 33’ (8.2 m to 10 m) are now available in St. Petersburg and Bradenton, Fla. Check them out at SovereignBoatClub.com or call 727-200-3474.

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"Relaxing on a 1980 Southwind."

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