Manufacturers are pushing the envelope in design, performance and optimum comfort.

The Horizon line of bowriders from Four Winns has proved popular since day one. The fact that the company has a new 30-footer for 2007 simply proves a great concept can get even better. Up until this year, the line included models ranging from approximately 18 to 29 feet. Now, with the 310’s LOA of 31 feet, four inches, beam of nine feet, eight inches (plus a deadrise of 21 degrees), boaters are provided with a model that can cater to enjoyable water sports plus open-water cruising.

A sweeping sheer line accentuates the 310’s premium, gel coat finish that’s offered in seven stylish colors. An available graphics package is available or choose from the exclusive Four Winns’ Classic Color Band (CCB) for a more customized profile. In the cockpit is an expansive seating layout featuring an aft sunpad, large lounge/settee, and twin forward facing stern seats. These seats are part of the company’s Cross Stream Seating System and easily convert the large aft sunpads into twin sun lounges complete with adjustable backrests.

Entertaining is a pleasure with the cockpit refreshment center, featuring a sink, counter, 12V power outlet, and a compartment that conceals two trash containers. A carry-on cooler comes standard and a refrigerator is available.

In the bow is more comfort and seating, which converts to a large sunning area with the optional cushions. Other features up here include a large bow table and ample storage space. Some options to consider include a power windlass with rope, chain and anchor and docking lights.

The 310’s helm highlights a new stylish, tri-spoke tilt steering wheel and an array of easy-touch switches. An MP3 player, and a charger for cell phones or other small electronics are also included.

Rounding out the 310 is a large head, and a spacious day berth, which is part of a well-lit area that can be outfitted with several options including air conditioning/heating, a microwave, flat screen television, and a standard Clarion AM/FM/CD player/satellite streamer with a six-month subscription to SIRIUS.

The big news from Seaswirl Striper is the 3301 WA. Coming in at an LOA of 33 feet, five inches and beam of 132 inches, the 33 rides on a solid, deep-V hull featuring Seaswirl's exclusive Fibercore One-Piece Stringer system, which is constructed of laminated fiberglass and filled with polyurethane flotation foam to provide an optimum strength-to-weight ratio. It also keeps the hull rigid, vibration-free, and provides smooth, quiet rides.

In the power department, the 33 can handle up to 600 horses. In addition to a fully-loaded helm, there's hydraulic steering and series of navigation electronics. The 33 also comes equipped with a series of practical fishing amenities. The spacious cockpit has ample space along with four large fish boxes, a large bait box, flush-mount stainless steel rod holders, and a non-skid cockpit sole. What's also impressive is the cabin, which has bunk beds, and a spacious galley featuring a sink, stove, microwave, and refrigerator. There’s also a porcelain marine head that offers six feet of headroom.

Other developments in the Striper line include the 2601 CC, which has been revamped with several appointments for serious anglers and families alike. In its 25-foot, seven-inch package, the 2601 now features a tournament rail designed for light tackle fishing and allows fishing from anywhere on the boat. Some other interesting appointments include a fully fishable console, four large fish boxes, recessed rod storage, and four flush-mount stainless steel rod holders. There’s also a aerated bait/livewell with high-speed pump, deck washdown system, and a walk-thru transom door. When it comes to family cruising, a built-in cooler will keep drinks cold and snacks fresh, while the non-skid cockpit sole and high freeboard adds an element of safety for children and adults.

For 2007, the company also announced its 1952 Bay Boat is part of its Striper series. At 19 feet, six inches, with a beam of eight feet, six inches, the 1952 is claimed to be the widest bay boat in its class and features ample storage, a spacious console and shallow 11-inch draft.
It its sport boat line, you may want to check out the new Spyder, a stylish, sleek sport boat designed for wakeboarding, skiing, tubing or just plain cruising with your family. Be sure not to miss this model at the upcoming shows this winter. (Page Top)

Formula/Thunderbird products extends its offerings this year with a redesigned 382 Fas3Tech and all-new 310 Sun Sport. Acclaimed among recreational boaters looking for optimum performance, the 382 is back this year in a Poker Run Edition. It comes complete with Mercury Racing’s new 700 SCi engines with NXT1 drives. But what will really turn heads is the striking Platinum Series Blaze graphics package it was donning at a recent showcasing in Chicago.

Another exciting appointment on the 382 this year is its reinforced hull and custom fiberglass grid structure (to provide structural integrity) and a multiplane bottom configuration that’s designed to attain a stabile controlled, solid ride at high speeds.

The helm comes complete with Livorsi Monster gauges set in a carbon-fiber-finish instrument panel, a Ritchie compass, Dino wheel, plus Bennett trim tab switches and indicators. McLeod race-inspired bolsters are also included. Down below in the cabin is dramatic lighting, metallic silver inserts in the luxurious Ultraleather seating, brushed metallic-finish paneling on the cabinetry, and Black Quartz Corian countertops and tables.

The 310 is the latest edition to the Sun Sport series and comes in at an even length of 31 feet with a beam nine feet, six inches. Users will appreciate the expansive cockpit featuring a U-shaped lounge, a moulded fibreglass galley, along with an aft facing bench, which converts to a full-size sun lounge.

In the cabin Formula included an Ultraleather U-shaped forward dinette lounge/double berth with a high-gloss wood table, and an entertainment center with a 120V/12Vrefrigerator, Corian countertop, a stainless steel sink, and trash receptacle. The cabin also has a Kenwood AM/FM/CD stereo with a six-month Sirius subscription and moulded fibreglass head.

Elegance, power and pure comfort are the highlights on the new Regal 2700 FasTrac Bowrider. This 28-footer features the company’s patented FasTrac hull featuring a deep, 24-degree deadrise for increased fuel efficiency, a quicker hole shot, higher top end speed, and riding comfort in rough water.

Located aft is a swim platform that completely covers the drive unit when lowered, protecting swimmers while at anchor or the dock. Features continue with an electrically-actuated forward opening engine hatch, a transom shower, and stainless steel telescoping ladder. By removing the centerline filler cushion, a walk-thru is revealed for easy entry into the cockpit.

A refreshment center featuring a Corian countertop, sink and faucet is another highlight.The 2700 also has a starboard convenience center, which houses another Corian countertop. A stainless steel grill is offered as an option.

Baja Marine steps up to the plate this year with its new 26 Outlaw. This 26-footer replaces the 25 Outlaw, and shimmers from bow to stern with innovative designs and white-knuckled performance. The cockpit abounds with comfort with two large bolster seats forward and an aft bench that combine to provide plenty of space for up to six adults. There’s also an aft sunpad to offer additional comfort. All upholstery is 34-ounce vinyl. At the helm is a custom black wheel with satin finish spokes, illuminated text on the rocker switches, Livorsi controls along with backlit gauges. Storage is found throughout and some other cockpit appointments include a standard Clarion Performance stereo system, jumbo, stainless steel cup holders, a custom dash panel, courtesy lights, and three 12V receptacles.

The cuddy is just as impressive with more storage space, a cushion V-berth and convertible, facing bench that can sleep three adults. Additional sleeping space is in the cockpit. A carbon monoxide detector, carpet runner, and 12V lighting are other highlights.

With a history that dates back to just 1984, Monterey Boats has made impressive leaps in the last 22 years by building on its impressive collection of runabouts, deckboats, cruisers and sport yachts. Its latest development is its 330 Sport Yacht (SY) and one more example that proves Monterey is very versatile in its boat designs.

It has an LOA of a little more than 35 feet, a wide beam of 11 feet, three inches, and a maximum power rating of 640 hp. What’s more, these specifications allowed designers to transverse fuel tanks on the center (each offering 105 gallons) to offer improved handling and performance.

Recreational boaters will notice the cherry wood cabinets down below don’t span all the way to the ceiling. Instead, designers left a few inches of room to allow the A/C vents be completely concealed. Additionally, the return air duct is hidden under the cushioned V-berth bolster for added quietness.

Karadon solid surface countertops complement the fully equipped galley and all meals can be enjoyed at the salon/dinette area thanks to the solid wood table. A standard 26-inch flat screen LCD TV, DVD player, TV/telephone inlet with an arch mounted antenna and the cabin’s six feet, eight inches of headroom are other impressive features.

Above decks, the 330’s large cockpit features an aft U-lounge, a sun island feature (with storage), built-in chaise lounge, plus a dual helm/companion seating with flip-up thigh rises and fold-down arm rests. Rounding out the 330’s cockpit is an entertainment center that consists of a wet bar, a covered sink with faucet, built-in beverage coolers and several cup holders. (Page Top)

Monterey is also expected to deliver a new 214 FS and 220 EX to its runabout line.

Crestliner Boats stays on the cutting edge as a serious competitor in the fish boat market with a handful of new models. Starting in the Fish Hawk line, the Little Falls, Minnesota, company offers the 1600 and 1700 (each available in a side console or tiller version). While the 1600 SC comes in at an LOA of 16 feet with a beam of 87 inches and the 1700 SC has an LOA of 17 feet, two inches, both models share an aerated 24-gallon, livewell, marine-grade carpeting, casting platform (with storage compartments), a MotorGuide trolling motor and a Lowrance X-50 depth finder.

If a few extras are required, the 1700 highlights a longer rod storage compartment of 90 inches (over the 87-inch compartment in the 1600) along with an aerated 8.8-gallon starboard livewell. When it comes to seating, the 1600 has three fishing chairs and six bases, while the 1700 has three chairs and four bases.

In its bass boat division, Crestliner launches the CX-17 and CX-18, and another new model to look out for is the1850 Canadian.

Sea Ray calls its new 260 Sundeck “the ultimate SUV (sports utility vessel) for the water.” And after learning about its 26-foot LOA, eight-foot, six-inch beam, 21-degree deadrise and standard 300 hp MerCruiser 350 MAG MPI with a Bravo III drive, you’ll understand why.

The 260’s cockpit is spacious and a wet bar boasts a stainless sink, faucet, ample storage, plus stainless-steel and solid-surface accents. Comfort is provided by a large wrap-around lounge aft, a spacious lounge to port, and a bucket seat at the helm. More seating is found in the bow. For those longer cruises, there’s a head compartment, and a standard Clarion AM/FM/CD with MP3 port, four speakers, two tweeters and digital cockpit remote. It also has a six-month subscription to the Sirius Satellite Radio service.

To really spice up the 260, opt for the available wake tower, bow table, stereo upgrade and six-disk CD changer.

Following the successful launches of the new 38 and 60 Sundancers, Sea Ray announces the launch of its all-new 310. This 31-footer sports a large swim platform, new, aft-facing, fold-out seat on the transom, and a fully adjustable sun-shade/umbrella.

A walk-through windshield, railing and moulded steps, leading to the foredeck, flank an extra-wide helm featuring a full set of SmartCraft instruments, waterproof switch pads, flush-mounted gauges, and several built-in, flat surfaces for electronics. An added touch are the wide, comfortable helm seats with flip-up, thigh-rise bolsters.

Below in the cabin, users will appreciate the private V-berth and the fully-equipped galley with stainless-steel sink, large, under-counter refrigerator, microwave/coffeemaker combo, and two-burner stove. It even boasts ample counter space and storage. There’s also a mid-stateroom that ideally serves as a comfortable conversation area and its lounge easily converts to a double berth.

Sea Ray tops off its 2007 offerings with the 210 Select, a sleek, stylish bowrider, outfitted to please recreational boaters with its ample power and stylish comfort.

Canadian boaters looking for numerous standard features, impressive power packages, along with a spacious cabin and cockpit, may want to check out the 300 CXi Express from Cruisers Yachts.

Entering the 300 is made easy with a full-width, extended swim platform that leads to a cockpit featuring a forward facing companion lounge, rear aft-facing seats, two tables, and cockpit wet bar. Additional standards include carpeting throughout, a shower and removable 25-quart cooler. More comfort is available on the foredeck sun lounge, which is easily accessible via the walk-thru windshield with heavy-duty handrail.

The helm will delight drivers with its standard electronics package, which includes a VHF radio, depth sounder, color GPS/chartplotter and double-wide helm seat. Over head is a radar arch featuring lights and a Bimini with front, side and aft curtains.

Access below decks is via a sliding cabin door leading to a carpeted, open concept that comes with a fully-loaded galley, dinette, port-side private head with shower, and a crescent-shaped dinette. The mid-cabin has a settee that converts to a large, double berth, while the forward sleeping accommodations include a full-size master berth with a privacy curtain and clothes locker.

For cruisers looking for a larger platform with optimum comfort and style, the company also introduces a 390 Sports Coupe, the 395 Motor Yacht and the 447 Sports Sedan.

While information on the all-new 600 Chase Sport Cabin, 595 Sport Cabin and 622 Sedan Bracket Explorer from Campion Marine was unavailable at press time, what we can say is the company is once again highlighting its popular 595 Bowrider, 600i Chase Bowrider, and LX 825i mid-cabin.

The 600i Chase bowrider first debuted in late 2005 and captured the attention of recreational boaters with its shimmering graphics, sporty profile and performance to boot. What’s even more impressive is its APEX hull, designed to provide faster planning and a stable ride at top speeds. The 600i also utilizes what the company calls a FIST fibreglass stringer grid. In addition to completely eliminating rotting, this technology offers larger bonding areas for greater strength and structural integrity while cruising at high speeds. While underway, driver’s can control the 600i with its slick helm featuring a GT-style brushed aluminum wheel, series of rocker switches and gauges plus a Clarion stereo with four speakers. It also has two buckets forward, while more seating is found on the aft bench and in the bow.

Another bowrider worth considering is the S 595i Allante. Also riding on the APEX hull and featuring FIST technology, the 595 is a fast, stylish and well-thought runabout with ample space to offer comfortable boating. Bucket seats forward, an aft bench and plenty of seating in the bow provides room for the whole family while the little extras, such as the built-in ice chest, large in-floor locker, and Clarion stereo with four speakers, will add that much more excitement to your time on the water. Like the 600i, the 595 is offered with a DuoProp upgrade for even more performance.

For the mid-cabin cruiser market, Campion offers the LX 825 Allante, a 27-footer that highlights an elegant cabin featuring an upholstered double berth with storage, a designer accent pillow package, enclosed standup head with a vanity and sink, a refrigerator, alcohol/electric stove and a microwave. It’s also spacious and offers optimum ventilation. The cockpit will also please boaters with its expansive seating arrangement, wet bar, courtesy lighting, and Sunbrella acrylic Bimini top. (Page Top)

Lund Boats comes to the table for 2007 with a handful of new models, and many significant changes to existing ones. All-new are the 1425 Classic SS, 1425 Classic Tiller, 2010 Pro Guide, and 1625 Classic Sport.

The 2010 Pro Guide is the largest model of its kind in the Lund line and has a length of 20 feet, two inches, a beam of 90 inches, an easy-to-trailer weight of 1,440 pounds, and a power rating of 175 horses (with the Power Tiller Steering). The 2010 is ready to fish thanks to its dual 18-gallon auto-timed, aerated, lighted livewells, ProCapacity lockable in-floor rod storage, bow platform and cargo nets plus comfort ride seats.

In the Classic Sport series comes the new 1625. Designed with streamlined port and starboard consoles, there’s a full wraparound walkthrough windshield, auto-style controls and a dash with lighted instrumentation. Sport model options are available and include a sun top set with sun top, bow cover and walkway curtain.

Some other models to check out at this year include the new 1750 Tyee Gran Sport (along with the 2150, 1950, and 1850 Baron Gran Sports), a redesigned 1700 ProSport, plus the new 2025 Pro-V IFS/LE and 1900 Pro-V IFS/LE. Also expect to see Lund’s impressive IPS Hull on the company’s 1600, 1700 and 1800 Explorer models and the 2000 Alaskan.

Cottage island boaters and serious Great Lake fishermen will be pleased to learn Hydra-Sports introduces its all-new 2200 Vector Express, a hefty, tough walkaround with several features in a small package. Coming in at an LOA of 22 feet, four inches, with a beam eight feet, six inches, the 2200 is ready for the rough thanks to its tough-as-nails Kevlar-reinforced hull, featuring hand-laid fibreglass lamination, bi-axial fabric and woven roving, and composite transom. Its 20-degree deadrise can cut through the chop with ease and you’ll appreciate the stainless 68-gallon fishbox, under gunwale rod storage, stainless steel toe rails, and 26-gallon lighted baitwell. Features beyond fishing appointments include a swim platform and dive ladder, a port helm lounge seat, a Ray 54 VHF, self-contained head, butane stove and a Sirius satellite radio system.

For 2007, Wellcraft has launched its performing Scarab hull with the new 30 Scarab Tournament, an offshore fishing weapon that’ll get you to your site, then back to port again, fast and in total comfort. Users will appreciate the four fishboxes, 18 rod holders, fiberglass T-top, transom rigging station, pressurized water (13 gal. fresh, plus raw), a composite transom and impressive 288-gallon fuel capacity. At the console is space for two 12-inch display screens, a glass windshield plus the T-top package that includes eight gold-tone rod holders, spreader lights, electronics box and PFD storage bags. Popular appointments continue with the 84-quart aft baitwell, cockpit bolsters, 50-quart forward console seat cooler, submersible-rated electrical connections, trim tabs and Sirius satellite radio system.

Wellcraft also launches the 202 Fisherman which, according to Wellcraft, “combines quick and agile performance with popular features in a fun-to-fish package.” With a length of 20 feet, four inches, and a wide beam of eight feet, six inches, the 202 has the company’s signature transom seating arrangement that provides a secure ride while increasing deck space and livewell size. There’s ample space to stow rods, a huge 104-qt. baitwell, and an insulated fish box. A three-step ladder, rub rail with stainless insert, a forward console seat with cushions, and a 76-qt. reversible cooler helm seat are also included.

The 176XT from Stratos Boats is an all-new model for 2007 and comes in at an LOA of 17-feet, six inches, along with a beam of 84 inches. Some highlights include 28 square feet of forward deck space, and 20 feet of rear deck space. But if it’s performance you’re looking for, the 176 can deliver with its maximum power rating of 75 horses. (Page Top)

The 175XT also boasts a Lowrance X-50DS fishfinder, Minn Kota Edge 40 lb-thrust 36-inch trolling motor with a 1x6 charger, no feedback steering, and an aerated livewell. While underway, comfort is provided by three-across seating, and two fold-down pedestal seats.

Ranger Boats will be ready in 2007 with two popular models, the Fish n’ Play Reata 1750 and 621 VS.

With a length of 17 feet, five inches and beam of 94 inches, the 1750 is a model that will meet the needs of serious anglers and provide hours of family enjoyment. While you’re with the kids, crank the tunes with the Clarion marine stereo or easily take a dip in the water with the retractable boarding ladder. But for those times when you’re wetting a line, the 1750 will please with its ample floor and fishing space, interior courtesy lights, Lowrance X-52 fishfinder, and Minn Kota trolling motor. Storage space is equally impressive and the 1750 is also easy to tow and comes with a standard Rangertrail trailer.

Lowe Boats offers even more ways to have fun on the water this year with its Trinidad 200 pontoon. Users will appreciate its wider beam of eight feet, six inches, and optimum comfort thanks to the pair of bow lounges (with storage), large padded sundeck, and colour-coordinated Bimini top with storage boot. All upholstery is available with a choice of four designer colour schemes accented by the company’s custom weave carpet and DuraLuxT vinyl. Other standards include a JBL digital marine AM/FM/CD stereo with coaxial speakers and a deluxe helm station that includes a windshield, comfort-grip wheel with anti-feedback steering, full instrumentation, and storage locker with a soft-side cooler.

If you’re looking for a little more speed, but with the same amount of comfort, checkout Lowe’s 220 Tahiti deckboat. It has a maximum power rating of 175 horses, and whether you’re at full throttle or anchor, guests will enjoy the stern L seating arrangement that’s complemented with under-seat storage, a pedestal table and drink holders. An extra-large sundeck will prove popular with sunworshippers and the privacy enclosure in just one more added convenience. More seating is provided with two wraparound bow chaise lounges and the barrel helm chair with pivot slider at the helm. A JBL digital AM/FM/CD stereo with Sirius satellite radio, large in-deck storage, a Bimini top with boot and a painted bunk trailer are other standards.

Expect several changes to Princecraft’s line for 2007. In its Pro Series, the company introduces the new Pro 176, 186, 206, 207, which replaces the Pro 176, Pro 196, and Pro 196 GL. All models share several exciting features including wider, 7.5-inch gunnel moulding (except the Pro 207), a large, in-floor rod storage compartment, and the company’s ProFlo 1 livewell system with a recirculating timer. At the helm, all models have a Lowrance X-50 DS fishfinder plus a Jenson Marine AM/FM/CD stereo with a MP3 input.

While some common features on the Pro 176 and 186 include a bow casting platform, an anchor locker, and a 17-gallon ProFlo livewell, the 176 rides on a larger reverse-chine hull, and the 186 utilizes a double reverse-chine hull.

Unique features on the 206 and 207 continue with a 60-gallon built-in gas tank, and a versatile seating arrangement. The stern of the 207 includes two fold-down jump seats that convert to a swim platform and when the port side seat is open, a pop-up privacy curtain with optional chemical head and pump-out system is available. While the 206 eliminates the stern casting platform to accommodate rough conditions, there’s a high backwall, an extra-deep splashwell and two fold-down jump seats.

Also expect to see the Vision Series of pontoons, a new generation of models that includes the 23 L, 21 L and 19 L. While the 23 L and the 21 L are considered to be the widest pontoons in the pontoon category, all models boast striking graphics, full length skirting and a boat load of thoughtful features including a comfortable L-lounges at the stern with a sunpad, ample storage space, a fully loaded helm, a full width platform and a new 160-watt Jenson marine AM/FM/CD stereo featuring four speakers and an MP3 jack.

Godfrey Marine of Elkhart, Indiana, takes its deckboat design to whole new level for 2007 with the Hurricane Sundeck 240 O/B. This newcomer can comfortably accommodate 12 passengers thanks to its 102-inch wide deck and seating plan that includes chaise lounges, a large captain’s chair and ample seating space in the bow.

Access to the water is made easy with the aft swim platform and telescoping ladder, while the onboard, enclosed head compartment, complete with a sink and facet, is another thoughtful feature. The helm includes a fully-loaded instrument panel featuring brushed aluminum gauges. The 240 also sports Godfrey’s exclusive NextWave electrical system to assures safe, reliable electrical power. It rides the company’s Deep-V quick planning hull and longer cruises can be enjoyed with the 77-gallon fuel capacity.

Another addition to the Hurricane series is the Sundeck 195 I/O, a spacious, comfortable model that offers chaise lounges, a Jensen CD system, power steering and a large, wrap-around windshield. A standard ski tow-eye, battery storage, and an entertainment center are just a few of the creature comforts. If you require more appointments, the 195 is offered in a Convenience Package, Fish Package, Premium Sport package and a S.S. Package.

In its fishing segment, Godfrey also offers the Bass America HP 187 Pro, MV172, and V186 SC, while some models in its pontoon series the company highlights its Aquapatio Sun Deck.

Harbercraft launches several new models this year, starting with The 2025 Discovery Hard Top, a 20-foot, one-inch bracketed model ready for the offshore arena with its 90-inch beam, 18 degree deadrise and hard top. It also comes complete with the company’s transferable lifetime hull warranty. Additional highlights include 32-inch hull sides, a fuel capacity of 45 gallons, and approximate dry weight of 1,94 pounds.

Its Kingfisher series also expands this year with the 2725, 2850 and 3050. The largest models in this series are the 2850 and 3050, which boast Harbercraft’s patented Pre-Flex hull technology that combines high performance with strength to take on rough water. Both models also share Harbercraft’s transferable lifetime hull warranty and come compete with a standard Weekender Package, which includes a flush head, dinette package, cuddy and sink. Rounding out these models is the power choice of the a Volvo Penta D4 diesel powered stern drive to offer added range and fuel efficiency.

Also new is the 2725 Kingfisher, the 1725 and 1925 Adventurer, the J-MAX, and 1775 Extreme Duty. (Page Top)

For the second consecutive year, Yamaha Sport Boats will be offered to Canadian consumers. The 210 series includes three models, the SX210, the AR210 and the SR210, but no matter which one you choose, you’ll be pleased with its performance, comfort and utmost functionality. All models offer comfortable seating for nine, plus the company’s award-winning stern lounge and deck design that places a strong emphasis on efficiency, storage and comfort. It also gives the 210 the look and feel of a much larger boat. All models have the spacious, open bows that comes complete with thickly-padded forward-facing seating, while more comfort is provided by a large, comfortable captain’s chair with a flip-up seat. An ergonomically-designed J-shaped seat in the cockpit is also included.

Users will also appreciate the telescoping reboarding ladder that doubles as a convenient anchor locker, large, self-draining cooler, and an additional floor storage compartment that’s ideal for storing ropes, PFDs and dock bumpers. There’s also an extra large port side storage locker with a door that doubles as a wind deflector.

The loaded helm highlights the company’s No Wake Mode that reduces and sets rpm levels for optimum wake speeds plus an all-new JBL satellite-ready sound system with a remote at the stern and an MP3 input. Another feature is a walk-over transom that opens to a cushioned lounge area and reboarding platform. The cushioned backrests make this award-winning design (first introduced with the 230 Series) ideal for lounging in the sun, swimming in a cove, or enjoying a snack with the stern-mount table. Two table mounts, a table (SX and AR models), compass/depth finder and a swing-away tongue trailer are also included.

Yamaha also offers its 230 Series, which includes the SX230 HO and the AR230 HO. High freeboards, wide open bows, expansive swim platforms, and 10-person capacity are just a few of the highlights. A new feature is the large compartment that can be used as a change room and or even house a portable toilet. It can also store cumbersome boat gear, such as coolers, camping gear and other cumbersome supplies.

Driver’s will appreciate the loaded helm where they will find a swivel pedestal featuring a flip-up seat for added height and visibility and more comfort is provided by the innovative J-shaped seating arrangement, which is spacious, comfortable and features an innovative convertible design. The bow area this year is also wider and longer, and comes with several stainless steel cup holders.

Rinker Boats, the manufacturer that will be “making waves” for 2007, has a handful of new models for next year’s boating season. Beginning with its popular line of Captiva models, users should expect to see three new entries, the 240 DB, 260 DB and the 296 BR.

The 296 is the company’s largest bowrider and shines of quality from bow to stern. It has an LOA of 27 feet, two inches with a beam of eight feet, six inches. Designed to handle the rigors of big water, the 296 has a deep bow with a deadrise of 20 degrees, plus extended full length rails and a deep, comfortable seating area. The aft sun pad is a perfect feature at anchor while the extended swim platform has a built-in insulated storage compartment and non-skid deck storage locker covers. More lounging space is provided by the spacious double, convertible sun lounger. There’s also a refreshment center featuring a refrigerator and new Matterhorn Corian cockpit lids. The 296 has an approximate weight of 4,950 pounds, a fuel capacity of 75 gallons, and a person capacity of 12 (885 pounds).

If you’re looking for more space, check out the company’s new 350 Express Cruiser. The luxurious appointments start in the cabin with the loaded galley featuring a two-burner, electric stove, solid surface Corian counter tops, stainless steel microwave/coffee maker and refrigerator freezer. The island berth will provide a good night’s rest in total privacy, while the fold-out sofa offers additional comfort. A solid teak table and flooring is available and there’s even an entertainment system featuring a TV/DVD.

The cockpit is just as impressive with ample space, a plush seating arrangement and fully-loaded helm. Some thoughtful appointments include a large, integrated, extended swim platform and the patent pending “It’s Shore Choice” system, which includes dual dockside power outlets, cable TV inlets and power to the aft cabin seating area. Rinker also offers the 280 Express cruiser, 230 Atlantic, and 420 Express Cruiser.

STINGRAY BOATS, the Hartsville, South Carolina, builder that created the impressive Z-Plane Hull and offers a line of models ranging from 18 to 25 feet, introduces the all-new 250CS aft-cabin cruiser for 2007. While information was limited at press time, we can report this newcomer boasts a sliding hideaway cabin door that leads to a cabin featuring a galley highlighting a refrigerator, microwave and wine bottle storage. There's also a fiberglass-lined head and stand-up shower. Above decks, users will find integrated steps to the bow, an integrated swim platform, plus an anchor roller with a storage locker forward. Add the optional bow lounge cushion and optional air conditioning and boaters are provided with all the comforts of home. Additionally, Stingray is introducing the 205 CS/CX, each model offering two different seating configurations.

At its recent media conference in Gatineau, Quebec, Doral Boats dazzled the crowds with its all-new 40＊ Mediterra . Bridging the gap between the Boca Grande and the Alegria, one of the most notable highlights on this Euro-style newcomer is the Volvo Penta IPS system, which makes the Mediterra dance on the water with optimum handling and impressive speeds. In fact, with five adults on board, the Mediterra hit plane in a mere 10 seconds and cruised an impressive speed of 39.7 mph at 3,500 rpm. What＊s more, the IPS system on the Mediterra came with Volvo＊s new IPS Joystick. Designed to provide easier handling at idle speeds with just a few simple hand movements, the Joystick utilizes the system＊s diesel engine and drive units and provides exceptionally high power and greater side thrust, which in turn, offers simplistic docking capabilities and low speed handling 每 no matter the situation.

But thoughtful appointments are not limited to the IPS power plant. The Mediterra offers optimum comfort no matter where you are on board. The large, aft swim platform is approximately three feet wide, and comes complete with a concealed stainless steel ladder, ample storage space for gear or cables, and a transom walk-thru leading to the cockpit. It＊s also available with teak in lays.

In addition to ample seating space, the richly appointed cockpit galley, fibreglass hard top with skylights, and a fully-loaded helm, the Mediterra＊s cockpit has what the company calls an air cooler 每 an air condition-style unit capable of cooling the entire cockpit on those hot, uncomfortable, muggy days. A/C vents are mounted on the portside lounge seat, the side of the galley console, and below the helm.

Below decks, the luxury appointments continue with Berber carpeting,and a large U-shaped lounge with cockpit table right across from the fully-appointed galley featuring Karadon coutnertops and the necessary features to prepare a feast. Overnight comfort is found in the spacious aft cabin, plus the large forward area with its large berth which is surrounded by plenty of storage. The entire salon offers optimum ventilation and natural light. An interesting feature is the Bamara suede 每 found in select areas throughout the salon and cabins 每 the exact material used by Mercedes Benz and BMW. With too many other features to list, what we can say is do not miss this model at the upcoming shows this winter.

Two other new models were showcased, the Phazar, which is based on the 210 Escape, and the new 235 BR, the latest model for the company＊s exclusive and European-inspired Elite Series. While the 235 targets older families or couples, our sea trails revealed that everyone will appreciate this model. We reached speeds in the upper 50s and the 235 proved efficiency with it smooth handling, excellent running characteristics, and quiet, comfortable ride. An expansive lounge in the cockpit, two stylish bucket seats forward, and more seating in the bow 每 all featuring elegant, plush 36-ounce Caprelli upholstery 每 provides room for the whole family. Teak inserts throughout, solid 316 stainless steel appointments, ample storage space, a loaded helm and BMW-style row bars on the bucket seats are just a few of the many luxurious appointments. (Page Top)