New Zodiac Open 5.5 | Greenline 40 Hybrid | 7 Boat Buying Tips - 10/16/19
BoatTEST Newsletter October 16, 2019
New Test Video
Zodiac Open 5.5:
Quick-Planing RIB w/2-Stroke Power
The Zodiac Open 5.5 is a RIB that is as capable as a multi-mission dayboat ready for water-skiing, fishing, diving or exploring, particularly when equipped with the new Evinrude E-TEC G2 115 H.O. The high-output Evinrude has prodigious torque at the low end, which RIBs need to easily get on plane. She planed in just 3.5 seconds and had a top speed of 46.5 mph. The lightweight 3-cylinder engine also proved to be extremely fuel-efficient. At 1000 rpm and 4.9 mph, it got 12.3 mpg thanks to the electronic direct fuel injection with “stratified combustion” at low speeds -- about twice what competitive 4-strokes can manage. See the full test here...
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Test Video
Neptunus 650 Express:
Kevlar Layup, CE "A" Certification
The Neptunus 650 Express is built to CE "A" – Ocean certification standards, which are more rigorous when it comes to seakeeping than are ABYC standards. Part of this designation comes from her notable layup, which includes several layers of Kevlar lining the entire hull for strength, light weight and performance. The stringers are laid in with laser guides, ensuring that support is perfectly placed to keep the exact form of the bottom as designed over many years of service. The entire structure is resin-infused, delivering the precise amount of resin needed for maximum strength and minimum weight. See the details here...
Test Video
Everglades 340DC:
Lux Class Multi-Mission Dayboat
Like all in the Everglades stable, the 340DC is fully-equipped as a serious fishing platform as indicated by the broad open cockpit, the aerated baitwell, lots of rod holders and a 71-gallon (269 L) insulated fishbox across the transom. But this model is clearly more about functioning as a lux-class dayboat ready for a bit of swimming, diving, picnics and harbor hopping. The cockpit area also has a grill, sink, side-mount table and drawer-type refrigerator. There’s a wet head in the starboard console, and the port console hides a compact sitting area with a settee that converts to a double for overnights. More...
Test Video
Formula 430 Super Sport Crossover:
Quad 400 Outboards, 64.2 MPH WOT
Formula 430 Super Sport Crossover
The Formula 430 Super Sport Crossover has the finely-crafted lines and striking painted finish of all Formula boats. The four Mercury 400-R outboards hanging on the transom took her to a top speed of 64.2 in our test runs. But the real story is the Formula 430 SSC, which has captured the imagination of boaters all over the country and spawned smaller Formula versions. Her utility is remarkable, and her crossover capability has been executed with taste and high lux. See her on the water here...
Features Video
Greenline 40 Hybrid:
Climate-Friendly Cruiser w/ Solar Panels
The Greenline 40 Hybrid has huge windows looking out from the salon and aft galley, giving the entire area an open and airy feel that's unusual in this LOA. The area can easily be closed off at night by standard blinds. The table is a hi-lo that can act as a cocktail table, or it can convert the settee to a bunk when extra guests are aboard overnight. The windows are shaded by broad overhangs protecting the walkways to the bow, helping to prevent excessive heat buildup in hot weather. Large storage batteries and solar panels make it possible to run lights and A/C indefinitely in sunny weather without starting the generator or connecting to shore power. More...
Boating-Buying Tips
7 Tips for Smart Boat Buying
Are you looking to buy a boat? Before you start searching, take a look at these seven boat-buying tips. These guidelines include insurance coverage, knowing the age of the boat, whether or not the boat is built to industry standards, and more...
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