Leopard 43 PC Cat | Formula 290 Bowrider | Talos Lightning Detector - 06/17/21

Test Video

Leopard 43 PC

Power Cat for Real-World Cruising

Powered by a pair of 320-hp Yanmar 8LV320 inboards, the Leopard 43 PC topped 24 knots at 3730 rpm. Best cruise came at 8.3 knots and 1500 rpm where we recorded 3.0 nmpg and a range of 713.7 nautical miles. But not everyone needs to cover 700 miles on a single tank of fuel. At a fast cruise of 16.7 knots at 2800, she got 1.1 nmpg and a range of 254.4 nautical miles. Our overall impression of her handling at all speeds was positive. More...

Editor's Report

Invictus TT460

A Truly Integrated Hardtop

We’ve seen and heard from many builders who like to point out how seamlessly their hardtop frames integrate into a given boat. Most of them take a backseat to the 46’9” (14.27 m) TT460 from Invictus Yachts. Its hardtop frame sweeps forward to integrate into the windshield frame that extends all the way forward on each side of the trunk cabin. The manufacturer says the frame also integrates into the yacht’s internal structure. More...

Video Product Test

Talos Lightning Detector

Color-Coded for Easy Use

We have tested the Talos Lightning Strike Detector SFD-1000 series and we’re happy to report that it couldn’t be easier to use. It detects lighting from up to 25 miles away and works with color-coding. A green flash indicates a lightning strike 25 miles away. When the color changes to blue, the lightning is 16 miles away and if it’s flashing red, it’s time to head home. More...

Test Video

Alumacraft Bay 20 Coastal Edition

Designed for Shallow-Water Fishing

Alumacraft’s Bay 20 Coastal Edition isn’t just another flat-bottom fishing boat. She has a tunnel in the running surface at the transom and draws just 11” (27.94 cm). The higher engine-mounting position results in some serious holeshot times. We pinned the throttle and were on plane in 3.3 seconds. We darted to 20 mph in 5.1 seconds and hit 30 in 7.4. She also cuts through chop effectively and has a solid, reassuring feel, according to our test captain. More...

Test Video

Formula 290 Bowrider

Premium Bowrider w/Flexible Seating

During a day on the water, guests are going to want lounging options. On the Formula 290 Bowrider, the aft-facing sun lounge has a dual-position backrest and converts to a doublewide sunpad. The dual-height table and modular bow seating provide on-water dining options or can become a cozy spot for a game of cards. And, of course, it can all be personalized thanks to the Formula Flex program. More...

Boating Business

Recreational Boating Boom

Shows No Signs of Slowing

A bowrider is among the most popular ways for a family to get on the water.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) announced recently that new-boat sales remain at elevated levels with numbers through March up 30% compared to the 2020 average. Demand is at an all-time high and dealers are selling boats as fast as they come in.

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Outboard Buyers' Guide

Yamaha XTO. Full Tilt

One of the attributes that every outboard manufacturer touts is the ability to trim the engine all the way out of the water. This is especially important for an owner who keeps his boat in a slip or on a mooring in saltwater. Based on our statistics, Yamaha’s 425-hp XTO Offshore has the highest degree of tilt. Click here for the number...

"There's no such thing as a born pilot."

– Chuck Yeager

That’s why Sovereign Boat Club gives each of its new members five hours of training, plus more if they need it. Then, just think about piloting a $450,000 boat across the glass-smooth waters of the Gulf of Mexico this summer with your family beside you. Affordable annual memberships in five premium boats ranging from 27’ to 35’ (8.2 m to 10.6 m) are now available in St. Petersburg, Bradenton, Ft. Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, Fla. Check them out at SovereignBoatClub.com or call 727-200-3474.

Photo Of The Day

"Cruising on the Great South Bay in Amityville, NY." 

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