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Chaparral
236 SSi By
Steve Fennell
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A
large, spacious runabout fit for boaters who want it
all.
 Comfortable
seating, a fully loaded helm and thoughtful appointments
are just a few of the highlights on Chaparral’s
236 SSi. But what makes this model really impressive
is its spacious, deep layout, which makes you feel like
you’re in a much larger boat.
Boarding on the large, non-skid, swim platform was quick
and easy. Some standards back here include a concealed,
integrated three-step stainless steel swim ladder, storage
compartment for wet lines and glassed-in stainless handhold.
Our test boat’s platform was highlighted with
the optional stereo remote for the JBL stereo found
in the cockpit. Two exhaust vents for the MerCruiser
350 MAG engine were featured on either side of the non-skid,
transom walk-thru. This passageway was easily accessible
with its width of 15 inches and can be easily concealed
with a center cushion of the aft sunpad. The pad is
large, extremely comfortable and boasts long, stainless
steel grab rails around its edges. Large storage compartments
are found on either side offering ample room for PFDs
or other cumbersome gear.
The aft fibreglass section (excluding the aft bench)
electronically lifts on gas-assisted struts to reveal
the engine compartment. A nice touch was this compartment
opened from the inside of the cockpit, allowing easy
maneuverability for servicing. The interior had more
than enough room to conduct maintenance with plenty
of space for the batteries and essential boat gear thanks
to the concealed storage compartment.
The creature comforts continue in the cockpit with a
plush seating layout consisting of a U-shaped bench
and two swivel bucket seats with flip-up bolsters.
Drivers will appreciate the helm with its stylish burlwood
inserts. The insert across the top houses the speedometer,
tachometer and a four-in-one gauge featuring the trim,
oil, voltmeter and temperature gauges. The second insert,
to the right of the wheel, sports the rocker switches,
fuel and depth gauges. The third insert mounts the tilt
wheel along with another stereo remote. All gauges are
easy to read and the sight lines in all directions are
clear.
The bow reflects the same level of comfort as the cockpit.
Plush U-shaped seating featuring backrests will provide
a great ride for passengers. There’s an abundance
of storage underneath the port and starboard cushions,
while the forward seat cushion lifts to reveal an ice
chest. Stainless steel cupholders, a set of speakers,
and concealed bow ladder are just some of the other
creature comforts up here.
We highly suggest you look at this model at the upcoming
winter shows. With its sleek profile, excellent stability,
and list of thoughtful options, there’s no doubt
you’ll like it as much as we did.
Specifications
LOA: 24’1”/7.34 m
Beam: 8’6”/2.59 m
Approx. Weight: 4,338 lbs/1,968 kg
Deadrise: 20 degrees
Draft (Drive Down): 35”/.88 m (Drive Up): 22”/.55
m
Fuel Capacity: 54 gal/204 L
Power as Tested: MerCruiser 350 MAG
Price as Tested: $57,999 w/MerCruiser 350 MAG w/Alpha
I drive
Price Supplied By
Buckeye Marine, Bobcaygeon, Ontario (705) 738-5151 www.buckeyemarine.com |
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