Convenience and comfort abound on this 41-footer, but a closer look reveals pure performance to easily head offshore in style.

Remember the rush you felt when you got your hands on the brand new family car? The staff at Rinker Boats of Syracuse, Indiana, continuously share the same feeling with the launch of any new model. Kim Slocum for one. He recently brought Rinker¡¯s 2006 390 Express Cruiser across Lake Erie to meet me at the pier along the shoreline of Leamington, Ontario. It was hull number one.

While Kim is president of Rinker Boats, the company believes the privilege of enjoying new Rinker models shouldn't be limited to the executive staff or engineers. ¡°We encourage our people to take the boats for a spin ¨C for a weekend or even longer,¡± said Kim. ¡°It gives them an oppourtunity to experience what they¡¯ve been working on and see how well things work and what could be changed or improved.¡± A lot of practical thought has gone into this model. This comes as no surprise when you learn Rinker has been building boats since 1945.

The 390 has several thoughtful amenities. There's an automatic SOS signal for the bow spotlight, a headlight that automatically sweeps 10 degrees either side of straight ahead, plus a dual shore power system, which includes an outlet to starboard and port (offering convenient hook ups no matter your docking situation) and an automatic switching device. Another added bonus is the unique underwater fish light. But I am getting ahead of myself. Kim brought this new cruiser across the lake and was tidying up when we arrived at the dock. He was very pleased with the 390. ¡°We had a 36-footer years ago, but now the 39 fits between the 34 and the 44.¡± The 390 actually has an LOA of 41 feet, six inches.

SWIM PLATFORM/EXTERIOR

The 390 Express Cruiser has a trim and agile profile at the dock. There's a high freeboard and the reverse chine carries forward to the bow. The anchor is a sturdy 35-pound plough complete with 30 feet of chain and 130 feet of line. This line is, in fact, #8 plait, which won¡¯t twist or jam up in the electric windlass. Adding to its sleek design are the three, low profile, deck hatches complete with screens and shades. A thoughtful touch are the handy storage compartments for mooring lines.

Boarding from the dock to the extended swim platform, I noticed a four-step stainless ladder, transom remote for the stereo, plus two pop-up cleats. A total of nine 10-inch cleats are found throughout ¨C all thru-bolted with large stainless steel washers and lock nuts. Incidentally, this boat had the optional dinghy package featuring easy and secure storage for the outboard motor in the rumble seat trunk.

With the 390, Rinker introduced the MerCruiser SeaCore System, which is designed to protect all the drive components with industrial hardcoat anodizing that creates a hard surface of aluminum oxide to eliminate galvanic action. The system also includes closed-cooling and stainless steel components, such as engine mounts and steering shafts. This is of special interest to salt water boaters, but it also bodes well for the longevity of models solely cruising in freshwater.

COCKPIT

The transom gate leads to a generous aft deck complete with a refrigerator, ice maker, Rinker's signature blender and plenty of comfortable seating. Mechanics and boaters who take care of their own maintenance will be happy to learn the engine hatch opens without the need to remove a seat or pull up the carpeting. The hatch is also hinged and opens to the stern, enabling easy access to the platform and dock when you need additional tools. The engine itself is installed with sturdy, thru-bolted mounts. All accessories, electronics and plumbing are well organized and the service points are easily accessible. The standard 7.3 kW Kohler generator has a low CO concentration which exits out the side of the hull. The sound insulation is thick and effective.

CABIN

Entry to the cabin is via a sliding door with a screen. Why every cruiser doesn't have one is beyond me, since they provide the cabin with fresh air on summer nights, without the mosquitoes.

The aft berth is surprisingly large with plenty of headroom thanks to the engines mounted well aft and Rinker even included a vanity with a sink and mirror. The forward stateroom offers a queen-size bed, clothes locker, plus lots of storage that's easily accessible. In the head is an AC/heater vent, a porcelain bowl and the shower is in a separate, enclosed stall. A ventilating port light with screen, waste and fresh water gauges and six-gallon water heater with heat exchanger are other highlights.

The main salon has a large, curved seat and dinette to starboard, which converts to a double berth for extra guests. The well-equipped portside galley comes complete with a two-burner, electric stove that's recessed with a Corian cover to provide extra counter space. Another thoughtful feature is the standard stainless steel safe. Lighting is indirect and dramatic throughout, the cabin sole is teak and holly, and the salon table, like the companionway steps, is solid teak.

PERFORMANCE

At the helm, the bucket seats are comfortable and the butterscotch burl dash houses full backlit instrumentation. A great idea is the large, deep PFD storage bin located behind the helm seat. It not only offers easy access, but ensures they always stay dry.

At the turn of the ignition during our sea trials, the 375 hp 496 MAG MerCruiser engines roared to life. She handled very well around the dock, without the need of the optional bow thrusters. On open water, the 390 leaped out of the hole and was on plane in approximately five-and-a-half seconds. She hit a top speed of 43.4 mph and when we cut the throttles, we stayed on plane for a full 10 seconds before settling back down on the water. At 3,500 rpm, the 390 cruised very comfortably at a little more than 30 mph. This speed also demonstrated optimum fuel economy. At 4,000 rpm, and 35.5 mph, we used a fraction of approximately one-gallon per mile.

Since the water conditions were clam, we tested the 390's rough water abilities by taking it over her own wake at different angles. The reverse chine offered a soft entry and there was no vibration or extra movement, indicating just how sturdy this Rinker is. Taking hard turns at wide open throttle, the 390 carved a perfect arch in the water and everything moved in unison. The 390 is tightly constructed, stable and very responsive.

This is a well built, sturdy, and stable cruiser, offering a host of thoughtful features that will appeal to serious boaters. It's comfortable and luxurious with the range and performance for extended trips.

Specifications
LOA: 41'6"/12.6 m
Beam: 13'/3.96 m
Draft: 22"/ (drive up)
Deadrise: 18 degrees
Approximate Weight: 19,680 lbs.
/8,927 kg
Fuel Capacity: 300 gal./1,135 L
Water Capacity: 69 gal./234.69 L
Holding Tank: 45 gal./170.34 L
Maximum Horsepower: Twin MerCruiser 496 MAG HO w/Bravo III Drivees
Base Price: $375,306 w/ Twin MerCruiser 375 hp 496 MAG w/Bravo III Drives

Pricing supplied by
Rinker Boats,Syracuse, Indiana (574) 457-5731 www.rinkerboats.com (Page Top)