2 Big Boat Shows in Miami
Start Tomorrow

This is the second year that the Miami International Boat Show has been held at the marine stadium on Virginal Key next Biscayne Bay.

Both the Miami International Boat Show (seen above) and the Yachts Miami Beach show (in the canal by Collins Ave.) open tomorrow to start the spring boat buying season. Promoters for the show pictured above are promising to have fixed the annoying transportation problems of last year, and the Yachts Miami Beach boat show promoters have put up a fence and will be charging admission for the first time in its history.

This year we have selected a number of boats in four categories that we think rate special attention. Each has its own important attributes and we consider them tops in their class. Drill down to find out why we think so highly of them.

10 Top Cruisers

New Features Video

Maritimo M64:


Rugged Offshore Cruising Sedan

The Maritimo M64 is a versatile yacht with lots of interior living spaces and her extended deck on the flying bridge is unusual for the type and offers added functionality.

Maritimo has carved out a niche for itself by specializing in enclosed flying bridge sedans/convertibles. Because their boats can be easily modified for fishing, the M64, like most of the company’s boats, several distinct missions -- fishing, entertaining, and serious cruising.

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New Features Video

Cruisers Yachts 60 Fly:


Modern Style, Versatile Luxury Layout

The bow of the Cruisers Yachts 60 Fly offers an added entertainment venue, with a broad couch and adjustable chaise lounges plus the optional sun shade.

Large hull-side windows in the Cruisers Yachts 60 Fly bring light to the two- or three-cabin layout below decks to match that brought into the main salon/galley by the arching windows above decks. Optional grills both on the flybridge and in the cockpit welcome open-air cooking, and a lazarette large enough to hold a kayak or multiple water toys sits between twin stairways leading to the cockpit from the swim platform.

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New Snapshot

Galeon 560 Skydeck:


Sleek, Innovative Express with Flying Bridge

The Galeon 560 Skydeck combines dramatic exterior styling with all the interior space and comfort of a traditional cruising yacht -- plus she has a flying bridge.

The Galeon 560 Skydeck flying bridge provides the skipper with an excellent view of the water ahead while still maintaining the sleek lines of a Euro-styled express cruiser. With the flybridge located well aft, there's space over the lower helm for the sliding sunroof. The dining and lounge areas are on the same level as the lower helm, and the yacht is full of clever ideas and finish work is top-notch.

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Test Video

Riviera 52 Enclosed Flybridge:


Designed for Cruising and Entertaining

As can be seen in this picture the cockpit of the Riviera 52 Enclosed Flybridge is made for entertaining. Her enclosed flying bridge provides extra four-season living space.

Riviera’s new 52 Enclosed Flybridge provides boaters with a bluewater capable cruising sedan that can extend the boating season for cruising, entertaining and day boating. It is a seaworthy design built to go offshore, blending the builder’s traditional indoor/outdoor livability with leading edge operational technology. Her large aft deck, available mezzanine seating, and open plan with aft galley will entertain a crowd. With two en suite staterooms and a third guest stateroom, the 52 EFB sleeps six in comfort.

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New Features Video

Beneteau Swift Trawler 50:


Economical Long Range Cruiser

Top speed for the new Beneteau Swift Trawler 50 is over 21 knots and she will cruise all day at a comfortable 17 knots. At 7 knots she has a 1300 nautical mile range.

The mission of the Swift Trawler 50 is to provide safe and comfortable passages along the coast and to nearby islands for a couple or a large family at a reasonable price. She is designed to appeal to 99% of the boaters who dream of making passages to the Bahamas, up the Inside Passage to Alaska, and possibly even down the Windward Islands.

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Test Video

Beneteau Monte Carlo 6:


Modern Classic Styling, Efficiency in Build

The Beneteau Monte Carlo 6 has a distinctive combination of modern and traditional exterior styling that makes her instantly recognizable in harbors around the world.

The Beneteau Monte Carlo 6 combines the best tradition of Italian design with the industrial know-how of Groupe Bénéteau. The hatchet-style bow adds a classic look that's also highly efficient at smoothing the ride. The broad flat deck at the bow opens up to provide an extra chaise-style seating/sunning location.

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The boat will be presented on Virginia Key at Marina Stadium during the Miami International Boat Show. To reserve a VIP viewing of the MC6 on Virginia Key during the show, visit us at www.BeneteauVIP.com.

New Test Video

Sea Ray Sundancer 460:


New Express for Cruising Couples

We tested the Sea Ray Sundancer 460 powered by twin 525-hp Cummins diesels with Zeus pod drives and a joystick, recording a top speed of over 32 knots.

The Sundancer 460 is a 47’ (14.33 m) sport yacht and, as such, aims to provide luxury entertainment and accommodations as well as providing a powerful, smooth ride. With two private staterooms below, each with large heads and separate shower stalls, the Sundancer 460 is directed squarely at gracious two-couple cruising.

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New Captain's Report

Prestige 460:


New Cruiser Debuts at Miami Boat Show

Meet this new flybridge cruiser at Yachts Miami Beach. The new Prestige 460 is an evolution in the development of the luxury line of yachts from Prestige.

As Prestige Yachts continues to gain momentum and recognition in the North American market, its desire to meet the goals of that client segment continues to grow as well. Such is the case with the new 460 Fly. It’s a natural progression of the evolvement from the previous 450 and there’s not an area that’s untouched with improvements in either size or functionality, and, in most cases, both.

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Test Video

Formula 40 Performance Cruiser:


Entertainment Platform for the Weekends

The standard hardtop of the Formula 40 Performance Cruiser provides shade for the helm area, but there's plenty of space to catch some sun both on the bow chaises and in the cockpit.

The Formula 40 Performance Cruiser is a high-speed weekender able to go from mainland to destination for a beach party or overnighter without worrying about a small craft advisory. The company's level of fit and finish is legendary: The cleats are cast in the Formula logo, and all graphics are applied with specially-formulated paint over Ashland Maxguard gelcoat, then covered with a clear coat. The end result is a mirror-like finish that can list for years, much like an automotive finish.

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Test Video

Bavaria Sport 400 Coupe:


A Well-Equipped Turnkey Yacht

The American Edition of the Bavaria Sport 400 Coupe comes with foredeck upholstery and a sliding hardtop that lets lots of sunlight and fresh air into the helm area.

With her high freeboard allowing over 7' of headroom below decks, the Bavaria Sport 400 Coupe offers an unusually open feel for an express-type cruiser in the accommodations area. The American edition comes fully loaded with a sunroof, a 12-volt cockpit refrigerator, electric trim tabs, a Garmin GPS chartplotter, a Garmin VHF AIS radio, joystick docking system, a diesel generator, a 100-watt search light with remote control, air conditioning, shore power, a cockpit wet bar, grill and a two-burner stove.

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8 Top Sportboats

Test Video

Cruisers Yachts 338 South Beach:


Bowrider with Mid-Cabin for a Couple

The gray Cruisers Yachts 338 BR is one of the largest and most eye-catching sportboats on the water. She comes in a premium South Beach Edition.

The mission of the Cruisers Yachts 338 BR is to host a small army of friends for cruising, picnics, grilling or towing watersports by day, be a sunset cocktail platform in the evening, yet also be an overnight cabin cruiser with sleeping and living accommodations comfortable enough for a couple -- all of this and be able to tackle blue water as well as inland lakes.

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Test Video

Regal 3200:


Fully-Loaded Upscale Bowrider

With a 10'4" beam, lots of freeboard and a 21-degree deadrise, the Regal 3200 is far more seaworthy than most bowriders, and also has far more seating space.

The standard package on the upscale Regal 3200 includes an enclosed head with sink and soft-step deck, dual UltraLounges with six positions recline, a refreshment center, PowerTower, and a Fusion 700i marine stereo with Bluetooth. A standard Bimini top connects to the PowerTower and covers the cockpit from the windshield all the way back to the dual UltraLounges, providing UV coverage for guests. Dual teak-finish cocktail tables have six mounts positioned around the boat to allow dining fore and aft.

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Test Video

Scarab 255 Impulse WAKE Edition:


Twin Jet Wakesurfing Platform

The Scarab 255 Impulse WAKE Edition is a dedicated wakeboarding/wakesurfing platform with fold-down tower and ballast sack system, plus the added safety that comes with propeller-free propulsion.

With twin 250 Rotax 4-TEC jet power, the Scarab 255 Impulse WAKE Edition is a spirited performer, with a 3.1-second hole shot and a top speed of 53.2 mph. She comes loaded with upscale features including a folding wakeboard tower with Bimini, four-speaker stereo with Bluetooth and MP3 connectivity, and a tandem-axle trailer with brakes, chrome wheels and swing-away tongue.

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Test Video

Chaparral 243 Vortex VRX:


Twin Jet Sportboat with Extras

The Chaparral 243 Vortex VRX is a dedicated watersports platform that includes a tower and Bimini, along with a high tow point for wake surfers.

With bold graphics, a standard tower with high tow point and twin jet power, the Chaparral 243 Vortex VRX is clearly built for towsports fun. She's pushed by two 250-hp Rotax jets that put her on plane in just 2.6 seconds and deliver a top speed over 56 mph. She's larger than most jet-powered boats, with seating for 12, yet she still retains the exciting acceleration and maneuverability of the jet systems. She can also operate in shallower water than prop-driven boats, and creates less risk to those in the water.

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New Features Video

Four Winns HD 220 OB:


Luxury Deck w/ Outboard Power

The Four Winns HD 220 OB has taken aim at the luxury end of the market with small design touches and amenities that push this roomy outboard-powered deck boat to the head of its class. She is available with Mercury, Evinrude and other engine brands.

Outboard power to 300-hp cuts weight and improves performance and handling in the Four Winns HD 220 OB over sterndrive deckboats. The test boat ran nearly 50 mph with a single 250 Mercury four-stroke Verado and got on plane in just 3.7 seconds. The 8'5" beam is carried well forward, increasing seating space forward of the walk-through windshield. A trailer is included in the package.

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New Features Video

Yamaha 212X:


Watersport Targeted Features

The jet-powered Yamaha 212X hit 50 mph in our tests.

The new Yamaha 212X has specific features that target watersports action. She comes equipped with 1,100 lbs. (498.95 kg) of total ballast capacity in three tanks, a billet aluminum rear view mirror, a premium watersports tower, a premium sound system that includes a tower mounted sound bar, subwoofer, 500 W amplifier, and six Polk audio midrange speakers.

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Captain's Report

Glastron GTS 205:


Sporty Bowrider w/ Patented Bottom Design

With upgraded graphics and colors on the exterior and interior, a rubber mat on the swim platform, and a racier-style steering wheel at the helm, the Glastron GTS 205 is an upgraded version of the standard 205.

The Glastron GTS 205 rides on a Super Stable Vee (SSV) patented bottom design. It combines the stability and quick planing capabilities of a tri-hull with the chop-flattening ride of a deep-V, thanks to a deadrise of 21-degrees at the transom. There's a full-width lounge atop the engine compartment wide enough for four to sit with their feet on the swim platform, or a single sunbather could stretch out to soak up the rays.

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Test Video

Sea Ray 250 SLX:


High-End Amenities in a Family Bowrider

We tested the Sea Ray 250 SLX with a 8.2 L MerCruiser V8 and she topped out at slightly over 52 mph. Her up-scale upholstery sets her apart from the also-rans.

Sea Ray designed the 250 SLX to be a luxurious, well-appointed family bowrider with plenty of seating and a comprehensive list of standard equipment, including high-end amenities such as digital instrumentation and engine controls, an enclosed head and aft-facing transom seating with a convertible backrest. For performance to match the luxury, the boat comes standard with a 300-hp MerCruiser 6.2L MPI ECT Bravo III sterndrive.

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4 Top Motoryachts

Test Video

Hargrave 116 Raised Pilothouse:


A Highly Customizable Megayacht

The Hargrave 116 Raised Pilothouse is virtually a custom-built boat, a concept that lets the buyer create his dream yacht at a price traditional custom yards can’t approach.

Hargrave is no stranger to building large, beautiful yachts, and the new 116’ (33.4 m) Renaissance is another example of that skillset. The 116 layout features five cabins, including a full-beam owner’s suite forward on the main deck. There are accommodations for up to 10 guests and eight crew, while six crew will normally be onboard. Join us for our video look at this magnificent yacht.

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New Accommodation Video

Monte Carlo Yachts 105:


Advanced Build, Advanced Styling

The monocoque construction methods used in the Monte Carlo Yachts 105 allow broad open interior spaces, including the dramatic dining area, surrounded by deck-to-ceiling glass.

The Monte Carlo Yachts 105 features boldly modernistic European exterior styling with classic touches. She features a master stateroom on the main deck, a raised pilothouse and Portuguese bridge and lots of large, open entertaining spaces. Powered with twin 2400-hp MTU 16V 2000s with M93 V-Drives fed by a 3,170-gallon fuel capacity, she's an ocean-ranging yacht of relatively modest tonnage, promising efficiency in performance.

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New Entertainment Video

Ocean Alexander 100 Motoryacht:


Designed for Serious Work and Play

Capt. Steve feels right at home at the helm of this Ocean Alexander 100 – he spends his summers piloting a 150 high-speed ferry to Nantucket. He says the helm on this yacht is much better than his commercial gig.

The Ocean Alexander 100 Motoryacht is all about entertainment both in exterior and interior areas of the upper decks. The sky lounge has a wet bar and day head, with a larger wetbar and a large electric grill just aft on the bridge. There's a Portuguese bridge, and an added lounging area at the bow, plus the usual dining/lounging areas aft. Every owner should be comfortable at the helm, even though the vessel will likely have a captain.

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Test Video

Hatteras 70 Motor Yacht:


Mediterranean Style in a True Passage-Maker

Sophisticated Mediterranean-influenced lines and true offshore passage-making capabilities make the new Hatteras 70 Motor Yacht a luxury vessel for European competitors to reckon with.

The Hatteras 70 Motor Yacht has a 21-foot beam, exceptionally broad for the class, adding lots of usable space both above and below decks as well as increasing beam stability in a seaway. She also has a 5'3" draft, shallower than many in this LOA, adding confidence in cruising the ICW as well as allowing home dockage in shallower venues. She comes with plenty of muscle, with power up to twin 1800-hp 12V 2000 MTUs available. She is now available in a new enclosed bridge version.

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7 Top Fishing Boats

Test Video

MAKO 334 CC:


Sportfish Edition with 64.4 MPH WOT

The MAKO 334 CC, with a 24-degree deadrise, lots of freeboard and lots of bow flair, is clearly made to get offshore fast and get anglers home safely and in comfort.

The MAKO® 334 CC Sportfish Edition, powered with triple 350-hp Mercury® Verados for our test runs, ran an impressive 64.4 mph, which should make her one of the fastest boats in any offshore tournament. And surprisingly, at a more sedate cruising speed -- 3000 rpms and 29.8 mph -- she delivered a range of about 403 statute miles. Two aerated 34-gallon livewells in the transom give plenty of bait capacity for offshore angling.

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Test Video

Sailfish 325 DC:


Fishing & Family-Friendly Features

These seats all fold away for fishing on the Sailfish 325 DC, but when deployed they are ready to entertain.

Virtually all center console makers say their boats are family-friendly, but the Sailfish 325 DC takes it seriously. Family-friendly features include a cockpit galley with sink, hard-surface worktop, and an available grill and refrigerator. A compact cabin in the port console hides another sink, as well as seating and space for a microwave. All the usual Sailfish fishing features are also present, including abundant heavy-duty rod holders, an aerated livewell and jumbo fishboxes.

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Test Video

Boston Whaler 330 Outrage:


52.2 MPH WOT with Mercury Outboards

Ride along with Captain Steve as he cranks and banks the new Boston Whaler 330 center console offshore. WOT speed was 52.2 mph with twin Mercury 350s.

Boston Whaler’s newest member of the Outrage family is the 330 Outrage, and she’s all-new from the keel up. Below the waterline is a variable deadrise hull leading down to a flat running pad that we found provides quicker hole shots, reduced planing time and minimal bow rise upon acceleration. Overall, she’s a product of both out-of-the-box thinking and voice of the customer innovation.

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Test Video

Grady-White Canyon 306:


Sportfishing Boat w/ Comfort and Accommodation

We recorded a top speed of just over 50 knots for the Grady-White Canyon 306 powered by twin 350 Yamaha outboards.

Grady-White’s Canyon 306 is a boat that combines rugged, sport fishing character with a level of comfort that allows her to double as a family boat as well. She is 30’ 6” (9.3m) LOA, and 10’7” (3.23 m) wide, which is relatively beamy for this length in class. She has a smart array of features that cater to the fisherman without ruling out a more social application.

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New Captain's Report

Wellcraft 302F:


Miami Debut for New Offshore Fishing Machine

With a LOA of 30’2” (9.20 m), a beam of 9’8” (2.90 m) and a 22-degree deadrise the new Wellcraft 302F with Scarab Offshore Package joins the ranks of the serious offshore center console fishing machines. Take a test drive at the Miami Boat Show Feb. 16-20.

Wellcraft is no stranger to performance boats, so taking that technology to the offshore fishing arena is a recipe that goes together well. The Wellcraft 302F with Scarab Offshore Package is part tournament level performer, part Scarab performance boat (of “Miami Vice” fame), and part family-friendly cruiser. Power her with a single 250 or 300-hp outboard, or twin outboards up to 350-hp.

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Test Video

World Cat Glacier Bay Edition 2780:


Easy-Riding All Weather Cat

It takes less horsepower to push a two narrow displacement hulls like those on the World Cat Glacier Bay Edition 2780 than it does one wide hull, and the cat is more stable, too.

With her hardtop and three sides enclosed, plus a removable aft enclosure, the World Cat Glacier Bay Edition 2780 easily becomes a four-season boat. To complete this functionality, an optional 8,000 BTU heating/cooling unit rounds out the package. With a pair of 150-hp Yamaha 4-strokes turning 14 ¼ x 17 props, she reached a top speed at 5900 rpm of 40.7 mph in company tests.

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Test Video

Tracker Targa V-20 WT:


Tough, Durable and Ready to Fish

With the Mercury 225-hp OptiMax Pro XS, the Targa V-20 WT reached a top speed of 46.1 mph in our test runs.

With an all-welded hull of .125 marine aluminum, the Tracker V-20 WT is well suited for beaching on rocky shorelines and navigating stumpy, debris-filled shallows, but her high freeboard and 35-degree entry forward make her a good performer in rough water of big northern lakes. She comes as a turn-key fishing package with a choice of 2- or 4-stroke outboards to 225 horsepower, a trolling motor, a fishfinder, a livewell and a tandem-axle trailer.

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