Devised as a do-it-all boat, the 21 Coastal Bay ACE Premium Elite utilizes Action Craft’s patented Qui-Dry hull and pocket drive, resulting in a mere 10-inch to 12-inch draft. Yet, thanks to its extended gunnels, it’s also safe and dry when heading offshore. Standard features include a powder-coated T-top and leaning post, LED lighting above and below deck, and lockable rod and gear storage. The boat can accommodate up to 250 horsepower and comes with an 8-foot Power-Pole Pro, two live wells and an insulated fish box. After a day of fishing, put the swim platform and ladder to use. Base price: $58,000. www.actioncraft.com
Avalon Windjammer Entertainer
It’s all about upscale comfort in this new model from Avalon. A “bistro” table in the bow provides a cozy place to serve refreshments and socialize. Blue mood lights and illuminated cup holders and stereo speakers enhance the premium ambiance of the interior, which features a reclining captain’s chair along with multi-textured seating made with thick Matrix 50 soft-touch vinyl and suspension cushions that won’t bottom out. The smoked glass table and lounge area aft complete the luxury feel. Twin 25-inch-diameter, 90-gauge-thick pontoons offer a solid and smooth ride. Upgrade to triple pontoons to create an upscale performance machine. Base price: $41,756. www.avalonpontoons.com
Bayliner VR5
Winner of a Miami International Boat Show Innovation Award (see page 10), the VR5 utilizes two Bayliner design approaches — called BeamForward and AftAdvantage — to maximize its interior dimensions and basically create a 20-foot runabout in an 18-foot package. The boat’s beam is carried further forward, so the bow is wider and less “pointy.” The aft area slides the swim platform back (it’s not integrated into the running surface), which means more room in the cockpit. Standard features include a three-position companion seat, rear lounger with walk-thru, self-bailing cockpit and deep-V hull with all-fiberglass stringer system. Base price: $28,742. www.bayliner.com
Beneteau Gran Turismo 40
This French builder has made a big push in the Americas and now has two U.S.-based manufacturing facilities. It also has renewed its intercontinental Gran Turismo range with the GT40. The express cruiser has a stylish hardtop with retractable sunroof and distinct center helm station. The Volvo Penta sterndrive package comes standard with joystick docking for unmatched slow-speed maneuvering. The lower deck has two staterooms and an amidships galley and dinette. The private head has a separate shower stall to provide more usable space. Boasting Beneteau’s patented Air Step hull design, the GT40 can exceed speeds of 40 mph. Base price: TBD. www.beneteau.com
Boston Whaler 330 Outrage
Few boats are as thoughtfully made for cruising and fishing as those from Boston Whaler, and the 330 Outrage is no exception. Note the big console lounge with flip-down armrests and cavernous storage below. Plush bow seating opposite creates a prime social zone. An aft-facing bench in the cockpit converts to a leaning post. There’s a second fold-down bench at the transom and a portside dive door with removable ladder. Of course, anglers get their share of attention, too. The 300 Outrage has 16 rod holders, a standard 50-gallon live well and cockpit toe rails. Mercury outboards offer state-of-the-art Joystick Piloting and Skyhook station keeping. Base price: $253,970. www.bostonwhaler.com
Carver C50 Command Bridge
A new flagship is an exciting venture, and Carver did itself proud with the new C50. With three staterooms, two heads, one of the most spacious layouts in its class and a variety of impressive amenities, it offers a level of cruising comfort reached by few yachts. Getting around the boat is easy due to single-level sidedecks and molded steps to the bridge. Notable options in the big, entertainment-ready cockpit include a hydraulic swim platform and onboard crew quarters. The homelike cabin has an integrated forward salon and aft galley, and the interior boasts 6-feet, 8-inches of headroom. Add a lower helm station for all-weather capability. Base price: $952,780. www.carveryachts.com
Chaparral Vortex 243 VRX
Chaparral says the 243 VRX rates as one of the finest sport boats introduced in its 50-year history. Buyers can select from twin 200 or 250 Rotax 4-TEC ECT water-jet engines for “right now” throttle response. U-shaped seating welcomes passengers aboard, with extensive storage space to keep everything tidy. An enclosed head is a welcome plus on long-distance jaunts. The high-tech dash can be upgraded with an optional 6.5-inch Medallion color touchscreen panel, and a standard black or white folding tower makes an attractive performance accent. Add the award-winning Aerial Surf Platform to craft a custom wake. Base price: $60,595. www.chaparralboats.com
Chris-Craft Capri 25
While most new Chris-Craft models hark back to the brand’s original DNA, the Capri 25 takes things a step further with a distinctive vertical bow and sloped tumblehome aft. (Add rich teak to the foredeck and engine hatch to amplify the retro feel.) A cuddy cabin with V-berth and concealed Porta Potti adds overnight capability, and a long list of colors and trim options allows you to turn this already stunning runabout into a personal style statement. Standard power is a Mercury 6.2-liter gas sterndrive, with options ranging up to 430 horses, either Mercury or Volvo Penta. Base price: $132,380. www.chriscraft.com
Cobalt R30
The latest addition to Cobalt’s award-winning line of bowriders is the R30, a luxury day boat designed with Free Space Reclamation, the company’s technique for cockpit maximization. The benefits are expansive seating and seemingly endless storage. The biggest of the BR Series, the R30 also features an electric swim step astern, along with a sun pad large enough for four. The port side has a head compartment that doubles as a changing room. At the helm, the captain will find clean sight lines and flush Garmin screens that keep the systems and the route in view at all times. Base price: $170,105. www.cobaltboats.com
Crownline 270 SS
The sleek and sporty 270 SS has a few tricks up its sleeve, starting with a patented F.A.S.T. Tab hull that promises a quick time to plane, stability in turns and minimized drag for efficient fun on the water. At the stern, the “Social Swim” transom area has an electric sun lounge with dual actuator to allow you to position the seat at any angle you desire. Two transom speakers are also standard here, as are a soft-touch swim platform mat, transom shower and boarding ladder. The in-deck ski locker boasts built-in drawer storage, and an optional cockpit entertainment center adds a sink, countertop and refrigerator. Base price: $98,250. www.crownline.com
Four Winns 190 Freedom
Family buyers have an easy to own, easy to operate option in the new 190 Freedom. Built by a company long known for producing quality watercraft in its Cadillac, Michigan, facility, this value-minded boat’s fiberglass cockpit floor and stringer system offer long-term dependability. From the full-width sun pad to the fully finished ski locker — not to mention the custom trailer, which is included with purchase — the boat is ready to hit the water anytime, anywhere. Other nice (and confidence-building) touches include a full wraparound windshield and deep-reach swim ladder. MSRP: $25,523. www.fourwinns.com
Harris Solstice RD 260
Harris put a lot of thought into its modern take on the “double-decker” pontoon boat. It has large 27-inch-diameter pontoon tubes that, along with carefully engineered weight distribution, give the boat a stable ride; yet the boat maintains a beam of 8.5 feet, so it fits in a standard slip and doesn’t require a custom trailer. The fiberglass slide angles outward to steer users away from the engine, and EVA foam pads the rungs of the ladder, providing soft, sure-footed access to the top deck. Add dual rear-facing loungers and helm seats to keep an eye on the action fore and aft. MSRP: $70,213. www.harrisboats.com
MasterCraft X26
Built for the family embarking on an all-day cruise — a family that also craves the excitement of water sports — the X26 offers a roomy interior with wraparound seating that can accommodate a guest list of 18. There’s an optional head, built-in sink, refrigerator, multiple coolers, hidden trash receptacles and gas-assisted shocks for one-handed access to storage compartments. An all-new hull shape provides a smooth, dry ride while at the same time helping kick up epic surf wakes that can be shaped using the 2,800-pound ballast tank and Gen 2 Surf System. An optional Murphy touchscreen at the helm controls it all, including the available GPS-assisted ZeroOff cruise control and proprietary bow thruster. Base price: TBD. www.mastercraft.com
Nitro Z19
Actually billed as a 2017 model, the Z19 is a performance bass fishing boat capable of speeds approaching 70 mph with its standard Mercury 200 L OptiMax Pro XS. Measuring 19 feet, 4 inches long with a 94-inch beam, it features a NITRO Vortex Technology hull, a proprietary design that uses a series of parabolic curves instead of traditional strakes. This results in improved lift and acceleration and higher top-end speed. The Z19 has a substantial fuel capacity of 50 gallons and comes with a Minn Kota trolling motor, Lowrance electronics and custom, factory-matched trailer. The boat is also available in a Z-Pro Package option with popular tournament upgrades. MSRP: $34,995. www.nitro.com
Princecraft Vogue 29SE
The new Vogue 29SE is a big, refined pontoon boat with home-like comforts. Shall we count the ways? The bow features full wraparound (sofa-sized) seating and a table for alfresco dining, plus a bow gate and pop-up privacy enclosure with optional head. The amidships raised bar has four stools and cup holders for “docktails” and conversation. Astern, the entertainment area has a corner module with refrigerator, cooler storage, 12-volt outlet, sink and faucet, water tank (portable), lounges, radio, swim platform and more. Rig your pontoon with an engine up to 400 horsepower and get ready for some serious fun! Base price: $62,780. www.princecraft.com
Regal 26 Express
Created to be an attractive boat for those just entering the cruiser market, the 26 Express has the space and versatility for weekend trips and is also trailerable, making it easy to drop the boat in for a quick getaway. The first notable feature is a transom bench that converts into a sun pad. Further forward, a rear-facing seat provides face-to-face interaction. The port side of the cockpit has a unique bench seat that can be positioned to face forward or aft. The cabin houses a V-berth/dinette, galley and nicely finished head, along with a large mid-cabin with portholes that bring in natural light and enhance the space. Base price: TBD. www.regalboats.com
Robalo 226 Cayman
Fish the flats, venture offshore or road trip to your favorite lake with the new, trailerable 226 Cayman. Three 30-gallon live wells, lockable rod storage, wide gunwales and dual casting decks will satisfy recreational fisherman and tournament anglers alike. There’s a fully enclosed, step-down compartment that serves as a private head with the addition of an optional Porta Potti. Rigged to meet the rigors of saltwater environments, the 226 showcases Kevlar-reinforced construction, stainless-steel hardware and a ceramic-cored transom for added strength and durability. Engine options up to a 250-horsepower Yamaha are available. Base price: $38,295. www.robalo.com
Sea Ray 310 SLX
The new 310 SLX makes no bones about being a gadabout, promoting elegant and leisurely social interaction while transporting its passengers from one activity or event to the next. An expansive cockpit with circular seating, an aft-facing lounge that converts to a sun pad, and a standard wet bar make relaxation and entertaining easy. An enclosed head offers onboard convenience. Underway, the boat’s standard twin MerCruiser engines and innovative Quiet Ride hull combine athletic performance with ultra-quiet operation. The sculpted top is also standard, with an articulating bimini sunroof. And, of course, the stylish hull design and paint job are nothing short of eye-catching. Base price: $215,054. www.searay.com
Sea-Doo RTX-X 300
Want the most powerful engine Sea-Doo offers in a three-rider platform for bigger water and bigger fun? The new RTX-X 300 bridges the gap between the two-rider RXP-X 300 and the more cruiser-friendly GTX Limited 300. Standard features include the Ergolock system — a molded saddle with knee-grab design, angled footwell wedges and adjustable handlebars — and touring mode/sport mode toggling ability, so you can set the watercraft for a more confident ride or a more aggressive response. The RTX-X 300 also comes with Off-Throttle Assisted Steering for additional maneuverability in off-throttle situations. Add the X-Package for race-inspired features and style points. Base price: $15,399. www.sea-doo.com
Striper 270 Walkaround
Customers said they wanted a bigger version of the Striper 22-foot series, and the builder answered with a new 27-foot range that includes the 270 Walkaround and 270 Center Console. The 270 WA retains the aggressive bow flair, deep freeboard, tall gunnel cap and broad, assertive stance that made the 230 WA so popular and adds twin engines, extra fuel capacity and more cockpit space and cabin headroom. The 9-foot beam enables large port and starboard 34-gallon fish boxes, flanked by two 12-gallon aerated live wells. The cabin is wide and open, with a V-berth, compact galley and fully enclosed stand-up head. Base price: $116,764. www.striperboats.com
Super Air Nautique G23
Winner of the Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA) Leadership Award for Most Innovative Product of the Year, the G23 has a new hull design that redirects the flow of water for a smooth ride and that works in concert with the integrated surf system to create a sculpted surf wave while retaining a world-renowned wakeboard wake. The addition of the Nautique Surf Select remote wave control, intuitive operation with Nautique LINC Touch and Helm Command, and JL Audio’s exclusive WaveFront stereo system has created a sophisticated package, yet one that also features functional, ergonomic seating configurations and enviable entertainment features. Base price: TBD. www.nautique.com
Tiara Q 44
The new Q 44 is based on the hull of its sister-ship, the Tiara 44 Coupe, but the similarities pretty much end there. While the Coupe is built around luxurious interior spaces, the Q 44 concentrates on outdoor living, though it can still accommodate a couple down below. The layout is uber-spacious, with a single-level deck and full walkaround. A “cellar” on the port side is made to hold enormous amounts of gear and complimented with a hardtop storage system for kayaks, paddleboards, bikes and other toys. Onboard seating is inviting (and plentiful), and an island galley encourages alfresco affairs overlooking the water. An optional fishing package is on the way. Base price: TBD. www.tiarayachts.com
Tracker Targa V-20 WT
Meet the biggest aluminum deep-V in the Tracker lineup, featuring a thick .125-inch hull and welded-in stringer system and box beam for rock-solid durability. Of course, the boat isn’t just tough but comfortable, too. A tall walk-thru windshield keeps you dry when the waves kick up. Extra-wide gunnels offer lots of storage, and the exclusive Versatrack system lets you mount rod holders and other gear specific to the conditions you’re fishing. Two aerated livewells provide plenty of storage as well as room for big fish or bait. The V-20 WT comes rigged with a Mercury outboard, Minn Kota trolling motor and Lowrance electronics. Base price: $32,995. www.trackerboats.com
Yamaha VX Limited WaveRunner
It’s not hard to have fun on a WaveRunner, but Yamaha has made it even easier by including a “tube pack” with this new model. Buyers get a single-rider tube, tow rope, tube inflator and tube holder with their purchase. The three-person watercraft has a built-in tow hook, too, and a 12-volt accessory outlet to keep your smartphone charged and taking pictures. (Just don’t forget the waterproof case.) The VX Limited is powered by the TR-1 marine engine, which won an Innovation Award for its notable size, power and weight (see page 11). The payoff is better performance and fuel efficiency, and better value. Base price: $10,899. www.yamahawaverunners.com
Author: Brad Kovach is the editor of HeartLand Boating
