Newsletter Archive

Why Suzuki’s 350 Shines | The 7 Top Fishfinders | Princess F62 - 09/09/21

BoatTEST Newsletter September 9, 2021

 

Editor's Report

Princess Yachts F62

A Solid Motoryacht for Cruising/Entertaining

Above we see the Princess Yachts F62 underway wonderfully balanced so as to run with little bow rise during planing. Princess has a reputation for putting the emphasis on quality, functionality, seaworthiness, rather than on flashy exteriors and bling. The F62 is a standout. With her flybridge dining area and salon surrounded by large glass windows and accommodations for six in three en suite staterooms (with crew quarters aft), she is a capable coastal and near-island cruiser. More...

 

Test Video

Sailfish 360 CC

Extra-Deep Cockpit for Safety And Drier Ride

"Designed by anglers for anglers" has been the mantra at Sailfish Boats since its inception some 30 years ago. The strong suit of the 360 CC is her high freeboard that measures 43" (109 cm) forward and 40" (101 cm) aft and her commensurately deep cockpit, one of the deepest in class. For anglers worried about bringing fish aboard, there’s a port side door that measures from 21" to 24" wide (53 – 60 cm). Of course, she has a full complement of fishing amenities. More...

 

Navigation Equipment

The Top 7 Fishfinders

A fishfinder can be a useful tool when it comes to a productive day of fishing.

Searching for the right multifunction display or fishfinder or just about any other piece of electronics for your boat can be a bewildering experience because of all the brands and models to pick from. Identifying the one that has the functions and features you need can be daunting. We’re here to help. Find out which units the makers consider their "Best and Brightest." More...

 

Engines

Suzuki DF350A

The Only 350 Dual Prop on the Market

After three years of design and engineering, Suzuki offered its 350-hp V6 engine to the market. Her most outstanding feature is its contra-rotating props system, the only 350 on the market to have them. Why are dual props so important? The reason is that a single prop simply cannot transmit the power to the water that dual props can. Six prop blades have more surface area and lift than the 3 or 4 for blades. This engine outperforms other 350s both in the low and mid RPM ranges. 

More...

 

Test Video

Formula 290 Bowrider

Standing the Test of Time

The image above was taken from our test video made in 2014 of what was then, the new Formula 290 Bow Rider. Seven years later, she is still as sporty and au courant as bowriders come, and she is still at the pinnacle of her class. Seven years ago, her John Adams-styling was ahead of its time and she has proven her viability over time. Also, Formula has kept pace with engine developments. We tested her in 2014 with twin 320-hp MerCruiser 377 mags but now twice as many engine options are available, including an Ilmor 7.4 L MPI-S OPS 480-hp engine with One Drive. Capt. Steve got 54.7 mph out of her years ago, with twin 6.2 L 350-hp Mercs, but the question begs, what will she do now with twin 480-hp Ilmors? More...

 

Leon Slikkers Retires from Tiara Yachts

Leon Slikkers, a marine industry pioneer, whose career building boats dates back to 1946, retired from Tiara Yachts on September 8. An industry trendsetter who bucked conventional wisdom when it came to building boats out of fiberglass instead of wood, Slikkers, now 93, founded and successfully sold a number of boat brands over his 75 years building boats. Some years ago, he passed Tiara on to his family, nevertheless, he came in every day to the factory – until yesterday morning – his first day of official retirement. Be sure to see our video interview of Leon done last year and read his family's tribute to a successful life well-lived; a good man doing good deeds. More...

 

Cruising Destination

Fairhope, AL

A Must Stop

With its Gulf Coast, southern charm and its location in Mobile Bay for traveling boats of all types, Fairhope, AL offers laid-back cruising opportunities. Beaches, dining and a thriving art and culture community are some of the attractions. We think those on their way along the Great Loop or just day tripping or taking a weekend with the family and friends will find this a memorable stop. And with Saunders Yachtworks, a state-of-the-art boatyard, nearby virtually all maintenance needs can be met. More...

 

Go Where the Big Ones Are

There are loads of delicious-eating fish on banks 50 to 100 miles into the Gulf of Mexico. SBC has boats to take you there and back comfortably, fast and safely.  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.

 

Photo Of The Day

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"A beautiful day for boating in Gig Harbor, Washington."

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