Yamaha AR240 | Galeon 500 Fly | Aquila 32 - 01/02/20
BoatTEST Newsletter January 2, 2020
Here's a look at some of the top boats and products that appeared in our BoatTEST reviews in 2019.
These are not editor's choice, but your choice — they were the most-viewed videos and reports out of all the hundreds that we put together over the last 12 months. And if you didn't find just exactly the boat of your dreams in 2019, hang on — there is a lot more coming from BoatTEST.com in 2020!
Best wishes for the holidays from the BoatTEST.com staff.
Test Video
Yamaha AR240:
Shallow-Draft Twin Jet w/2.3 Second Hole Shot
The twin-engine Yamaha AR240 is one of the largest jet-powered bowriders on the market, offering seating for eight or more as well as providing plenty of storage. Draft is just over 16" (40.6 cm) including the drives, which is far less than conventional prop-drive boats with the lower units in operating position, giving safer navigation in shallow areas. The absence of exposed props is also a safety factor in a boat designed for watersports. Her twin Yamaha 1812 CC H.O. engines put her on plane in just 2.3 seconds and pushed her to a top speed of 51.8 mph in our tests. Though not many jetboat fans worry about mileage, she can run a long time between refills. At 5500 rpm and 27.9 mph, she got 2.95 mpg. This gave her an approximate range of 133 statute miles with the 50-gallon (189 L) fuel capacity. More...
Test Video
Manitou 25 X-Plode XT SHP:
Twin Engine Pontoon w/52.4 MPH WOT
The Manitou design team told us they specifically selected twin Evinrude E-TEC G2 200s to power their sporty X-Plode XT SHP model because of the exceptionally fast hole-shot performance, pulling power and top-end speed. The model we tested, turning Rebel 22” (56 cm) pitch three-blade propellers, delivered all around. She went from 0 to 20 mph in just 3.5 seconds, which is comparable to pretty much anything on the market outside PWCs and jetboats. Top speed was 52.4 mph and best cruise was at 2500 rpm and 17.5 mph, at which she got about 2.9 mpg. The test boat was equipped with Evinrude’s optional iDock joystick system, which can be especially useful on pontoons because of their shallow draft and considerable windage. The system made docking a non-issue. Since it costs thousands less than other outboard joystick systems, it’s likely to be made part of the package for most buyers. More...
Schedule A Test Drive Dealer Contact Request Pricing Request
Features Video
Galeon 500 Fly:
Skipper’s Choice: Wide Range
of Cruising Speeds
While her fold-out bulwarks are the head-turning feature on the Galeon 500 Fly, she has some operational pluses that might be just as important to the owner/operator. Propelled by two Volvo Penta D11-670 horsepower diesel engines with V-drive transmissions, she has a fuel capacity of 476 gallons (1,802 L). Her fuel economy was level at 0.5 NMPG from 1500 to 2400 rpm, giving the operator a wide range of speeds to select from for the most comfortable ride with no penalty in range. At idle, the engines burn just 2.2 gph, giving her a displacement range of over 1000 NM at 5.4 knots and opening the potential of an occasional longer cruise, though she’s a yacht primarily built for entertaining and short-hop cruising. She can cover the water rapidly at WOT — top speed was 30.4 knots. More...
Test Video
BENETEAU Oceanis 62:
Easy Launch & Load Tender, Optional Hardtop
Handling the ship’s boat is a non-issue on the Oceanis 62, thanks to the large tender garage in the transom. The 9’6” (2.9 m) Williams jet tender is standard equipment. When it's lowered fully, the transom angles downward to become a launch ramp so the dinghy can be rolled out and down into the water, and it’s easily retrieved via an electric winch. The swim platform folds flush with the transom when underway. The Oceanis we tested had the optional hardtop, providing full protection for the entire cockpit area, but still providing the option of catching a few rays with a sliding sunroof. The entire area can be curtained for operating in shoulder seasons or foul weather. More...
Schedule A Test Drive Dealer Contact Request Pricing Request
Test Video
Aquila 32:
Bow-Riding Cat w/Seats for 16
The Aquila 32 is essentially an XL bowrider on a power catamaran hull. The design gives an impressive amount of seating space — up to 16 adults — due to the 12'8" (3.9 m) beam of the twin hulls. Aquila also came up with an unusual solution for the lack of swim platform space and access that is common in outboard-powered boats by placing the platform aft of the engines. Access is via a pass-through between the engines. The platform has a hydraulic option with folding stairs to become a teak beach. The design allows the engines to be tilted completely out of the water, thanks to lift struts on the aft seatbacks, which push them out of the contact zone for the cowlings. More...
Captain's Report
Ocean Alexander 90R:
Skylounge Ready to Entertain Multitudes
The luxurious Skylounge of the Ocean Alexander 90R welcomes entertaining lots of guests. The upper salon has a full lounge and glass cocktail table to port and a stone-top bar with stools to starboard. Note the huge windows all around, supported by aluminum beams as they are throughout the yacht. In this version, the helm is included in the skylounge, but it’s also possible to order a separate wheelhouse-type enclosure forward, with a small seating area for several guests to keep the watch company. Aft, the outdoor section has two lounges that wrap around tables at the stern, plus a full wet bar with four stools, a grill, sink and refrigerator. More...
Boating Tips
5 Safety Blunders
Boating is a safe activity, surprisingly, but there is always a danger to being out on the water. Safety should always be foremost on our minds. Also, the captain of the boat is personally responsible for every crewmember aboard. It is incumbent to watch out for these safety blunders that many boaters make. More...
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New BoatTEST Website: New Login Required
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