New Everglades 455CC | Pre-Drive Checklist | Affordable Sea Ray - 08/09/21

Test Video

Sea Ray SPX 190

An Excellent Starter Boat

The Sea Ray SPX 190 we tested was powered by a midrange 4.5-liter 200-hp sterndrive from MerCruiser. We hit a top speed of 47.5 mph with an aluminum prop, so if an owner is craving that 50-mph mark, upgrading to stainless-steel might do the trick. The 19” (48.3 cm) pitch prop was dialed in for acceleration. Our test boat planed in 3.7 seconds and accelerated to 20 mph in 5.8 seconds. Her handling was exemplary. She’s a fun boat to drive and she’s big enough for lots of friends. More...

Features Video

Fairline Targa 45 GT

Express Yacht Open Below

On the Targa 45 GT, Fairline’s designers ensure that the belowdecks area has an open feel by creating an atrium-style salon area at the base of the companionway. The single-piece windshield and sunroof let in natural light that reflects off the high-gloss woodwork. There’s also flexibility built into the belowdecks area with two staterooms that could play the role of master depending on what the family needs. More...

Editor's Report

Everglades 455CC

Center Console w/Worthy Helm

Historically, Everglades has been one of the most innovative builders of center console boats and the new 455CC keeps that tradition going. The helm has the largest console and dash panel in the company’s history. It starts with Everglades’ patented hydraulic sliding (up and down) tempered glass windshield that has a washer-wiper system. The angled vertical electronics panel has space for triple 22” (55.88 cm) flush-mounted displays and was developed with Garmin to use the electronics company’s digital switching with touch-screen controls. Recessed storage compartments have inductive cellphone chargers. Release Marine teak ladderback helm seats are mounted on SHOX shock-mitigating rotating bases. Everglades is one of the first production center console builders to offer these seats and like Seakeepers, we think they will soon be de rigueur within the next couple of years. Overhead, the hardtop has space for additional electronics including dual chartplotters that are viewable from the second row of seats – it’s like being at an outdoor movie with Surround Sound. More...

Boating Business

Boat Sales Stayed Strong Through May

Marinas around the country are full while dealerships are sold out.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) reports new boat sales remained healthy through May, according to the latest New Powerboat Registration Report. Data shows retail unit sales of new powerboats were up 24 percent on a rolling 12-month (R12M) year-over-year (YOY) basis through May, reflecting the continued interest and demand for boating over the past year. More...

Seamanship

Basic Checks Can Head off Disaster

Experienced boaters know the value of basic pre-trip inspections to head off potential problems before they rear their ugly heads at the most inopportune times. Here are six areas that should be checked before every voyage. More...

DIY

How to Install a Transom Shower

If you are not lucky enough to own a Formula which comes standard with a transom shower, why not install one of your own on old Betsey? Whether it’s having the ability to rinse salt off the kids, mud off the dog or fish blood from the deck, a transom shower definitely comes in handy. The good news is that installing one is easier than most think. The better news is we have laid out the steps to get the job done. More...

“The family is one of nature's masterpieces.”

– George Santayana

Imagine you and your family using a premium boat at an affordable price. 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.

Safety Tips

When Common Sense Isn't So Common

Our skipper in the sunglasses has one hand on the wheel and one on the throttle. He put his boat into a high-speed turn and was obviously not concerned about the comfort and safety of his passengers. This video shows what can happen when boat operators fail to use common sense. Roll 'em...

Photo Of The Day

"Relaxing at the end of the day in Poros, Greece."

Share your boating photos with us!