Sophisticated Powerhouse

Tested by Capt. Ron Svoboda



Technology

It all starts with Formula’s Advanced Speed, Stability, Structural Technology (FASTech) multi-plane hull. This stepped bottom boat has proven itself by dominating the APBA Factory 2 class circuit for the past several years. Formula has earned several National and World Championships using race-rigged versions of the same performance hull that you can buy in their recreational version.

The Ride

I had the opportunity to experience the quality ride provided by the structural grid system molded into all of the boats in the FASTech lineup. Our test day was perfect for putting the 353 through its paces, with 15-20 knot winds and seas of up to 3 feet. It’s not often that Mother Nature gives us a day where we can test in conditions that prove what a boat is really made of.

Performance

Hammering down on the throttles, the 353 got on plane in less than 7 seconds and reached 30 mph in only 10 seconds. Pretty good for a boat that weighs in at over 8,500 pounds, plus another 1,200 pounds of fuel on board. Once on plane, the boat’s multi-plane bottom progressively accelerated as it transitioned through each one of its three separate running surfaces.

As we powered through the heavy chop, the 353 gave a confident, comfortable ride as she sliced right through the stormy sea. The rigidity of the structural grid system provides a solid feel at the wheel and at the seat of your pants. The rougher the water got, the harder we pushed the 353. She showed no signs of cowering, shaking or squeaking as we launched this powerhouse out of the water and into the next crest.

The Layout

The cockpit layout is typical for this type of boat, but the attention to detail is not. The folks at Formula really put some thought into what people need in the cockpit. For instance, the rugged steps for boarding and accessing the bow’s anchor locker are very handy. So is the vanity mirror on the glove box door and the trash receptacle located to port. The side coaming storage compartments are concealed by sliding Plexiglas doors and are large enough to stow PFDs and other safety gear.

The Helm

I really appreciated the helm set-up that Formula provides the driver with. The seating position is very comfortable and can be adjusted for captains of all sizes. Formula accomplishes this by using McLeod electric-assisted bolster seats that adjust at the touch of a button. Another button allows you to raise or lower the McLeod footrest, fitting you perfectly for any water condition.

The ergonomics continue with a tilt steering wheel and Gaffrig Zero-effort controls for the throttles and shifters. Everything is within easy reach and can be easily read no matter how rough the water gets. The instrumentation layout is ideal with the gauges paired by input rather than by engine. This means that you can monitor and compare critical engine parameters on both engines at once with a quick glance, rather than having to search the helm as is common on other performance boats.

Stepping Down Below

Below deck, you will find comfortable accommodations for spending an evening aboard. There is room enough for four people. Two can bunk in the double V-berth and two more can sleep on the bench seats, which convert into a berth with the hi-low table and filler cushion.

The interior décor of the cabin is subtle yet sophisticated. The super plush UltraLeather upholstery feels soft and inviting. Your guests will enjoy the amenities in the cabin too, like the private head to starboard and the refrigerator and pressurized, fresh water sink located to port.

In Conclusion

The fit and finish of Formula’s product is evident. Quality control is excellent, and every component is heavy duty and built to take the abuse that offshore powerboating has to offer. If you are serious about performance boating, then Formula’s FASTech boats should be on your list of prospective buys.

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