Four Winns V285 (2010-)

Brief Summary

The Four Winns V278 is now the New V285. Same stable V hull and panted running service with a new name for 2010, the V285. Capt Ron Svoboda gave the model a thorough test to see how this 7200 pound express cruiser works in action.

Test Results

Specifications

Length Overall	28' 4'' / 8.64 m
Beam	8' 6'' 2.55 m
Dry Weight	7,360 lbs. 3,340 kg
Draft	39'' .99 m
Deadrise/Transom	17 deg.
Max Headroom	6' 0'' 1.83 m
Bridge Clearance	7' 0'' 2.13 m
Fuel Capacity	85 gal. 321 L
Water Capacity	21 gal. 79 L

Acceleration Times & Conditions

Time to Plane	7.4 sec.
0 to 30	12.71 sec.
Props	N/A
Load	2 persons, 1/2 fuel, no water, min. gear
Climate	Temp: 90 deg., humid: 55%, wind: calm, 10 mph: 1' chop

Engine Options

Tested Engine	1 x 300-hp MerCruiser 350 MPI
Std. Power	Not Available
Opt. Power	Not Available

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Capt. Ron Svoboda

It’s all in the numbers

The V285 is the largest trailable pocket cruiser in Four Winns line. The next size up, the 288, has another foot of beam, making it a little more challenging to tow to your favorite playground. The 285 also has a manageable dry weight of just 7,100 pounds, meaning that you won’t need a big rig to get her to and from the launch ramp.

The inside scoop

The boat’s cabin is just right for a couple or small family. A convertible dinette in the bow sleeps two people, while a small aft cabin offers room for two more. The port side galley provides just enough storage space for a weekend cruise along with a microwave oven, and a single burner electric cook top. The counter top has a granite like solid surface with a molded sink built in. Under the work surface is a refrigerator for food and beverage storage. The cabin also features a fully lined head compartment with flush toilet, shower nozzle with curtain, and a compact vanity with sink.

Top side, the V285 has cockpit seating for four adults, a removable snack table that can convert into a sun pad. A mini wet bar is to port and offers up a fresh water sink and a removable cooler that is situated in a nook below the counter top. To starboard, the boats helm gets a mixture of class and aviation styling. Analog gauges are placed around the optional Raymarine chart plotter and below a Danforth compass. Switches are located on either side of the tilt steering wheel and there is easy access to the Sony stereo controls and optional VHF radio.

Sport-able options

One unique option for this pocket cruiser is the tubular aluminum wakeboard tower. Now, I’m no wake sports expert, but I bet the V285 throws a good size wake for playing on. Plus, at the back of the boat is a large transom locker and spacious, extended swim platform making the boarding experience for all more enjoyable.

Jumping to the foredeck is a set of molded steps and a large windshield pass-through. The deck provides a good, non-slip surface and a slopping bow rail for safety. A pair of cushions can be placed here to maximize your sun pad potential and lounge space. All the way up front is an anchor locker and roller. A windlass is optional but makes for a good investment. Trust me on this one.
So if you want a cruiser that you can haul to your lake or pond, but still need more space than the average pocket cruiser has to offer, then the V285 might be the right formula. It’s hard to beat the boat's performance and economy. Not to mention the amenities that are worked into the package.