After testing the Monterey's impressive 298 Super Sport in August, we couldn't help but wonder what the builder had in store for 2003. When the news had come down about a new deckboat, we immediately called its headquarters in Williston, FL asking for information.

The 253 Explorer Sport is just one of several recent developments for 2003. By the looks of its robust exterior and amenity-packed cockpit, this entry is guaranteed to turn heads on the water this season.

Like every model in Monterey's line up, the 253 is built with hand-laid woven roving that is extended from the hull bottom, through the chines and up the hull sides. For additional strength, this woven roving overlaps at the chine and keel. Closed-cell foam is then injected into every cavity of the hull bottom to ensure a soft, quiet ride. This also adds integrity to the hull sides and bottom.

You board the 253 via a swim platform. But before you enter the walk-thru transom into the cockpit, you'll find a concealed boarding ladder and a stainless stern rail along the back of its exclusive Sun Island. The Island is raised and is the perfect spot to catch some rays. There's even a remote stereo control panel for added convenience.

The top easily lifts to reveal the engine compartment. Service technicians will appreciate the design of this area. It's spacious and the top of the L-shaped bench cushion, that is located forward of the island, conveniently flips down to provide further access.

In the cockpit, there's a standard wet bar which provides room for a pair of coolers. Both forward seats adjust and provide comfort for long cruises. The helm chair faces a series of Faria gauges. These gauges are set into a regal burlwood panel and are neatly arranged for easy viewing. The switches and throttle are close at hand while the tilt wheel offers further driving comfort.

Beside the helm, a small companionway leads past the walk-thru windshield and into the bow. A large lounge provides even more seating and the two forward-facing backrests allow passengers to lean back and enjoy the ride. Grab handles are conveniently placed to provide security when the waves pick up. There's also a large ski locker to store boat gear or water toys. Another feature is a swim ladder concealed in an integrated compartment at the nose.

It will come as no surprise if the 253 is a popular choice for 2003. It boasts several selling features with plenty of space for the whole family. But above all, its practical features and structural integrity is sure to please recreational boaters for season to come.

Specifications
LOA: 26'5"/8.1m
Beam: 8'6"/7.3m Deadrise: 19 degrees
Draft: (drive up) 19"/.48m (drive down) 35"/.89cm
Weight: 4500 lb/2360 kg
Fuel Capacity: 60gal/227L
Seating Capacity: 14 or 3240 lb.
Maximum Horsepower: 320 hp
Standard Power: 5.0L 220 hp
Standard Price (MSRP): $62,274 w/ 5.0L 220 hp MerCruiser

Price supplied by Monterey Boats
(352) 528-2628 Fax: (352) 529-2628
1579 SW 18th St., Williston, FL 32696
www.montereyboats.com

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