New Test: Fairline Targa 45 GT | 80-MPH Fountain 39 NX | Jetboat Buyers’ Guide - 05/11/21

New Test Video

Fairline Targa 45 GT

"Fun to Drive" w/Sporty Lines

The Fairline Targa 45 GT has the sleek, sporty lines that have become signature to the British manufacturer's Targa series. She also has the handling to back up that racy look. In a word, she’s “ fun to drive,” according to our test captain. At 24 knots, he put her into a hard turn and the speed barely fell off. She holds her line at a comfortable angle, meaning everyone will stay comfortably seated. Powered by twin 440-hp Volvo Penta IPS 600s, we topped out at 30.1 knots. More...

Industry Interview

Suzuki's Higher Gear Ratios

Help Keep Bow Rise Low

In this interview, Gus Blakely, Executive VP, Division Head, Suzuki Marine USA, tells us about one of the design elements that sets apart Suzuki outboards from their competition. It’s called an offset driveshaft. Having two gear reductions in an outboard translates into a number of benefits, including a higher gear ratio to get the boat on plane quickly and to lift the stern. More...

Test Video

Fountain 39 NX

Tops 80 mph and Sleeps 2

Fountain Powerboats offers the 39 NX with triple outboards ranging from 900 hp to 1,350 hp total. We tested her with triple Mercury Racing 450R outboards and hit a top speed of 80.2 mph. She also has luxurious seating in the cockpit and bow, plus a private cabin if a couple wants to get away for an overnight trip. More...

Editor's Report

Nautique Super Air Nautique G23 Paragon

Crowd Pleasing Wake Shaper

Wakesports boats like the Super Air Nautique G23 Paragon are as much about the folks in the boat cheering on the riders on the water. Her cockpit has a pair of aft seats that can slide forward with a reversible backrest to create aft-facing seats for watching the action. In the bow, filler cushions that create a large playpen can be flipped over and have a faux teak walking surface on the back, making it easy to debark at a beach or sandbar. More...

Outboard Engine Guide

Data on 8 25-hp Outboards

Which is Best for Your Application?

Last year, about 30,000 outboard engines were sold in the U.S. that were from 15 to 25-hp. They are all different. Each is designed to perform best in a specific application, so do some research and find out which one is best for yours. Two have two cylinders, one is 866 cc that is 50% more displacement than the next largest engine, two are jet drives, one has a carburetor, one has a gear ratio of 2.42:1 – and so it goes. Each has a different twist, so to speak. Check them out...

Features Video

Palm Beach 50 Fly

Opulent Yacht for Entertaining

The Palm Beach 50 Fly is a luxury day boat for entertaining guests in luxurious environs. Her flying bridge and cockpit offer open-air gathering spaces. An owner can choose between having the galley on the main deck or in the traditional position below. If the former is selected, the galley has an aft bulkhead window that opens to the cockpit. The Silestone countertop becomes a serving area for guests and the cook will appreciate the fresh air. More...

42 Jetboats On Display

On display at BoatTEST's Spring Virtual Boat Show are 42 jetboats from a variety of manufacturers. Browse the selection by clicking below.

Boat-Buying Advice

 In Search of the Perfect Boat

All boats have their positives and negatives and much of that is based on an owner’s intended use. The trick is for each boater to find the vessel that best fits his or her personal needs, be it a singular purpose like fishing or towsports or a more diverse approach. We’re here to help simplify the search. More...

Sovereign Boat Club in Bradenton

Free Demo Ride on a Robalo R317

The Sovereign Boat Club vessel in Bradenton, FL is a brand new Robalo R317 that has one of the largest and most versatile cockpits in class. She’s designed for a family and has joystick twin engines, an electric flush toilet and lots of room. Membership in this boat is limited to 8 people so all can have access almost as many days as they want. Dues and monthly payments are a fraction of the cost of ownership. If you are interested in buying a new R317, SBC would be glad to give you a demo ride for free. 

For more information or to sign up for a demo ride, contact: [email protected] or call 727-200-3474.

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