New Formula 38 Crossover | How Much HP Do You Need? - 11/05/19
BoatTEST Newsletter November 5, 2019
New Test Video
Formula 380 Super Sport Crossover:
Twin 520-hp MerCruisers, 51.5 MPH WOT
Formula 380 Super Sport Crossover
The new Formula 380 Super Sport Crossover is optionally powered by twin 520-hp MerCruiser B3XRs, equivalent to triple 350 outboards but with the weight positioned farther forward for improved balance. The FASTech double-stepped 21-degree deadrise bottom design proved a good compromise between speed and comfort, topping out at 51.5 mph. Stern quarter sponsons extend to the aft edge of the swim platform, providing added buoyancy. The joystick system and steerable lower units make docking easy. She’s fully equipped as a multi-mission dayboat, but also has a comfortable cabin below with optional A/C and a generator. More...
Test Video
Maritimo X50:
Well-Balanced Hull w/Versatile Aft Layout
The Maritimo X50 positions the twin 670-hp Volvo Penta D11 shaft-drive diesels nearly amidships and also locates the two 383-gallon (1,450 L) fuel tanks outboard in the same area. Moving so much weight near the center of the yacht not only makes it easier for her to get on plane, but it also allows staying on plane at lower rpm, which is a big fuel saver. In our test runs, she showed linear fuel use at 0.5 nmpg from 1500 rpm and 14.4 knots all the way to 2500 rpm WOT and 33.6 knots, allowing the captain to adjust speed for sea conditions with little concern for range. The design opens up space aft for their unique “beach club” suite, an added en suite guest cabin, or a tender garage. More...
Features Video
MJM 35z:
Dayboat Extraordinaire
w/Outboard Performance
The MJM 35z was inspired by Maine-built picnic and lobster boats, but her function is all dayboat with utility that few can match. She is designed for a comfortable day cruise with friends and family. She's a high-quality build from bow to stern and is powered by a pair of outboards up to twin 350-hp Mercury Verados. The result is a performance boost, as well as an increase in usable storage space in what would otherwise be the engine room. She can also be a couple’s coastal cruiser. She floats in just 21" (53 cm) of water with the drives up, great for poking into shallow coves. There are hullside doors on both sides, rarely seen but a big plus for easy entry from floating docks. Belowdecks, she sleeps two in a convertible V-berth forward, and has a galley and head. More...
Test Video
Boston Whaler 280 Outrage:
Redesigned Classic w/Improved Performance
The Boston Whaler 280 Outrage is a classic design, but the 2019 version has been redesigned from the keel up to improve performance. A new running pad aft on the keel improves time-to-plane. Powered with twin Mercury Verado 300s turning 20” (51 cm) pitch Rev 4 propellers, she got on plane in 4.1 seconds. The 23-degree deadrise, about the maximum we find in production boats, along with a sharp forward entry, does a good job on softening the ride in most sea conditions. High freeboard and lots of flair forward keep the ride dry for the genre. See the full test drive here...
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Test Video
Sea-Doo RXP-X 300:
Race-Course Ready 300-hp PWC
With a 300-hp super-charged Rotax jet system and a dry weight of just 850 lbs. (386 kg), the Sea-Doo RXP-X 300 is clearly intended to be a high-performance PWC. She delivered in our test ride, with rocket-like acceleration and top speeds well into the 60s. She is easy to handle at speed thanks to the T-3 bottom design, which has dual running surfaces, with a shallower-V outboard providing great stability at idle and slow speeds, as well as in the turns. When running straight ahead, the sharper deep-V on each side of the keel cuts waves more effectively to soften the ride. More...
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Boating Tips
How Much Horsepower
Is Enough?
Sure, we all love seeing those massive center consoles with three, four, or even five engines. That’s cool stuff. But for the average boater, how much horsepower is enough? What are some of the other advantages and disadvantages of having more or less power that are important to you? Some straight talk from our captains... More...
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