Robalo 246 Cayman (2024-)

Brief Summary

The 246 Cayman is ideal for those who seek offshore adventures as well as coastline cruises. Showcasing a kevlar reinforced hull with a Hydro Lift™ multi-angle hull design this vessel was designed for precise maneuverability while delivering premium comfort.

Test Results

Specifications

Length Overall	24'6" 7.47 m
Beam	9' 2.74 m
Dry Weight	5,100 lbs 2,313 kg
Tested Weight	6,302 lbs 2,859 kg
Draft	16" 41 cm
Deadrise/Transom	16 deg
Person Capacity	9/1,350 lbs 9/612 kg
Fuel Capacity	90 gal 341 L
Total Weight	6,302 lbs 2,859 kg

Acceleration Times & Conditions

Time to Plane	4.8
0 to 30	8.3
Climate	90 deg., 80 humid; wind: 5-10 mph, seas: light chop

Engine Options

Tested Engine	1 x 300-hp Yamaha Four Stroke F300XCB 25" w/Hydraulic Steering
Std. Power	1 x 300-hp Yamaha Four Stroke F300XCB 25" w/Hydraulic Steering
Opt. Power	1 x 300-hp Yamaha Four Stroke F300XSB2 25" w/Digital Electric Steering

Captain's Report

Robalo 246 Cayman

by Capt. Ken Kreisler

The Robalo 246 Cayman is 24’6” LOA (7.47 m) with a 9’ (2.74 m) beam and she can be powered by an optional single 250- or 300-hp Yamaha four-stroke outboard, available in grey or white, with hydraulic or digital electric steering and optional jackplate. Her stainless steel prop is standard.

Mission Statement

Along with her day-tripping profile with family and friends, this Cayman offers a serious fishing platform for the serious fisherman. With her wide beam for plenty of angling space, and 16” draft with the engine up, for getting into some skinny water, there are very few places you will not be able to take her into.

Major Features

• 20-gal forward livewell

• 30-gal aft livewell

• Custom bonded front windshield glass

• Integrated dual level footrest

• Premium stain resistant silicone cockpit fabric

• Fiberglass hard top with powder coated black or white frame and includes bonded windshield, 4 rod holders, storage box, LED spreader lights, and integrated console grab rails

• Aluminum trailer including tandem axle, disc brakes on all four wheels, folding tongue jack, 14" galvanized wheels, submersible LED lights, winch stand with safety straps, and trailer side guides

Features Inspection

The Cockpit

Taking full advantage of that 9-foot beam, the cockpit on the Robalo 246 Cayman SD affords the fishing crew plenty of side-to-side elbow room during angling action. Adding to that is the transom center seat performing three functions; the first is to provide a comfortable seat while underway, the second is access to the bilge, and the third, with the seat back folded down, the entire are becomes a casting platform.

The Center Console

One of the first things we noticed about the console and helm area is the large hardtop offering sufficient shade area for the driver. Should you want the undercoating of the hardtop to be of another color to cut down of the glare of the while gelcoat, there are several options offered. A tempered glass windshield has a vent at the top to let in the breeze.

The robust frame is powder coated and there are handy grabs where they should be. The helm itself is quite utilitarian with everything, throttle, switches, adjustable stainless wheel, and center, flush-mounted 12” Simrad screen all within easy reach. In the front of the console is a door leading to a compartment which can hold the optional porta-potti or serve as a storage area. A double wide seat, with bolsters, finishes things off. 

The Bow

The forward seating here is recessed down, have removable back rests, and the underneath hatches are finished smooth. Gas assisted struts allow for easy opening of the hatches where rod holders are found. As well, there are additional rod holders under the gunwales amidships on either side. An optional table and storage is also provided. And with all the cushions removed and stowed, the entire bow, with fairly aggressive non-skid underfoot, become a large casting deck. 

Performance

Speed & Range

Our test boat got up on plane in 4.8 seconds with a test weight of 6,302 pounds including two people on board and ½ fuel in her 90 gallon tank. The V6 single 300-hp Yamaha outboard, spinning a Saltwater Series II 15 ¼” x 18x3” stainless prop, she peaked out at 5000 rpm with a 48.5 mph and a burn rate of 38.7 gph. At that rate of speed, she had a 113 statute mile range. When we knocked her down to 3500 rpm, her optimum cruising speed, we posted 28.2 mph, a 19.3 gph burn, and a range of 131 statute miles. For these numbers we factored in a 10% reverse in the fuel tank.

Handling

With mostly calm conditions, and but for hopping our own wake and catching those of other passing boats, which we noted she handled in relative comfort. We found her responsive when necessary and felt in control on sharp turns. While she did lose a bit during those maneuvers, which is totally expected with a boat drawing a mere 16” of water and having less deadrise, there was nothing noted but for a little bit of expected slide.

Options To Consider

• Hull colors in shades of grey and blue, sea foam green, black, and others.

• Two blue underwater LED lights

• Trim tabs with indicators

• Trolling motor with triple charger, Minn Kota Riptide Terrova 36V 112lb thrust with wireless remote

• Simrad electronics package

• Bow table

• JL stereo system

Observations

There’s a reason why the 246 Cayman is one of Robalo’s most popular models. Well-built and spirited and fun to drive, she easily bridges the gap for those seeking exciting fishing outings or going out with family and friends. With a long list of standard features and selected options to choose from, you can make your 246 Cayman a personal statement of ownership.