Sleek, Spacious, Welcoming--Regal's 2860 Window Express

Capt. Bob Smith

Test Captain

Regal recently introduced their new Window Express line of cruisers that feature more light and air flow below in the cabin.

At the Bow

The spacious bow begins with a stainless steel anchor roller and a skid plate that protects the deck from the nicks that the chain can cause. Our test boat came equipped with the optional windlass which makes anchoring the boat an easy task. I recommend installing one if you have a young family aboard or usually take the boat out yourself. Heavy 316 grade stainless steel rails surround the deck for safety when moving forward, and all of the hardware is through-bolted for a better hold. Making your way forward is simple with the walkthrough windshield and built-in steps in the dash.

Controls

The helm features a low-glare finish, but it still absorbs a lot of heat. With the standard bimini in place on hot days this should not be a problem. The Dino sport tilt steering wheel features built-in stereo controls, which adds convenience and helps keep your eyes on the water. Standard helm features include fog-free Faria analog gauges with stainless steel bezels and a digital depth gauge.

Our test boat also had the optional Raymarine chart plotting system installed which is very handy for cruising. The spotlight joystick is situated to the left of the wheel, switches have night lights and are breaker protected, and a 12 volt connection is also installed at the wheel for portable carry-on gear. The throttles and bow plane controls are on the starboard wall and are easily reachable from the flip-bolster helm seat. Located just behind the helm is the refreshment center, complete with the necessary features such as a cooler, sink, and storage.

Seating and Storage

Across from the helm is a port lounger. This comfortable lounger features French stitched upholstery and high density foam. The seat cushion lifts on two gas-assisted rods, which give access to the dedicated storage space for the removable table. Even with the table stored there is enough room to pack in a wakeboard or life jackets. This dual purpose table fits neatly at the stern when you want to serve snacks. For more room to lay out in the sun, simply attach the shorter legs and add the filler cushions for a large tanning area. Remove the table and the stern bench and you have a large area to stand and chat, or maybe do a little fishing.

Stern Features

The flip-flop bench is situated between the port lounger and the stern, and can be used as a forward facing bench or flipped back to add a bench to the stern table. Beneath the flip bench seat are the shore side connections, the battery, and main breaker switches.

An optional stereo remote can be installed at the walkthrough transom door for convenience when hanging out on the spacious swim platform. A handy transom swim shower is also back here. A trunk locker across the stern has space to store fenders, cleaning gear, and docking lines. A small step on the port side makes line handling duties easier when working from the stern and docking port side.

Down Below

Light plays a big factor in this new design, which really helps pour natural light into the cabin. There are multiple hatches which can be situated in three positions: open and unscreened for maximum light and air flow, screened to keep the flying insects out, and closed and covered to keep the light and air out for maximum privacy. For entertainment you can add the optional flat panel TV/DVD in the peak of the bow area, which can be viewed from almost everywhere in the cabin. LeatherCrest salon seating is quite comfortable and the convertible dinette creates an additional berth for guests. The table has its own dedicated storage in the floor below the table.

Fully Appointed Galley

The starboard galley overhead storage cabinets and the microwave is also installed above. The countertops are Corian and provide plenty of space to prepare meals. There is also a stainless steel sink and beneath the counter is a 12 volt refrigerator, more storage and a trash bin.

Just to the right of the galley are the tank monitors, and if you add the optional air conditioner, the controls are here as well.

Mid-Cabin

The mid-cabin berth has a queen sized bed with overhead reading lights. Natural light and ventilation for this space is through a large portal. Storage for the stateroom includes drawers, headrest storage, and shelves. The head comes with a custom vanity with storage, Vacuflush toilet. The sink features a faucet with a telescoping showerhead, and there is also a pull-around curtain for privacy.

Specifications

The all-new 2860 Window Express measures 29’5” length overall and has a beam width of 9’6”. She weighs about 9,000 pounds dry, and has a draft of 39” with the sterndrive fully down.

Performance

I found the 2860 to be a nimble cruiser that handled much like a large bowrider while having the comfort of an express cruiser. She turned corners well with little loss of speed and never felt weak in the controls at the helm. Equipped with twin 225-hp Volvo 4.3 engines the 2860 Window Express achieved a top speed of 45.9 mph at 4600 rpm. She cruised most economically at 31.2 mph turning 3500 rpm for a range of 164 miles.

With Regal’s new Window Express line, you get handling, amenities, and plenty of light.

Speeds measured with Stalker ProSports radar gun. Fuel consumption (gallons per hour) measured with Floscan digital fuel-flow meter on gas inboards, sterndrives, and outboards, TechMate electronic scan tool on gas EFI inboards, Caterpillar digital fuel-flow meter on diesel engines, or permanently installed fuel-monitoring equipment. Range is based on 90% of published fuel capacity. Sound levels determined using Radio Shack digital decibel meter on A scale. 68 dBA is the level of normal conversation.

Performance Chart

Test Conditions