FOUR WINNS V278

By Capt. Ron Svoboda

It’s all in the numbers

The V278 is the largest boat in the pocket cruiser segment due to her beam of only 8 feet, 6 inches. The next size up, the 288, has another foot of beam, making it a little more challenging to tow to your favorite playground. The 278 also has a manageable dry weight of just 7,100 pounds, meaning that you won’t need a big rig to get her to and from the launch ramp.

The inside scoop

The boat’s cabin is just right for a couple or small family. A convertible dinette at the forepeak sleeps two people, while a small aft cabin offers room for two more. The port side galley provides just enough storage space for a weekend cruise along with a microwave oven, and a single burner electric cook top. The counter top has a granite like solid surface with a molded sink built in. Under the work surface is a refrigerator for food and beverages storage. The cabin also features a fully lined head compartment with flush toilet, shower nozzle with curtain, and a compact vanity with sink

Top side, the 278 has cockpit seating for four adults, a removable snack table and can convert into a sun pad. A mini wet bar is to port and offers up a fresh water sink and a removable cooler that is situated in a nook below the counter top. To starboard, the boats helm gets a mixture of class and aviation styling. Analog gauges are placed around the optional Raymarine chart plotter and below a Danforth compass. Switches are located on either side of the tilt steering wheel and there is easy access to the Sony stereo controls and optional VHF radio.

Sport-able options

One unique option for this pocket cruiser is the tubular aluminum wake board tower. Now, I’m no wake sports expert, but I bet the 278 throws a good size wake for playing on. Plus, at the back of the boat is a large transom locker and spacious, extended swim platform making the boarding experience for all more enjoyable.

Jumping to the foredeck is a set of molded steps and a large windshield pass-through. The deck provides a good, non-slip surface and a slopping bow rail for safety. A pair of cushions can be placed here to maximize your sun pad potential and lounge space. All the way up front is an anchor locker and roller. A windlass is optional but makes for a good investment. Trust me on this one.

So if you want a cruiser that you can haul to your lake or pond, but still need more space than the average pocket cruiser has to offer, then the Vista 278 might be the right formula. It’s hard to beat the boats performance and economy. Not to mention the amenities that are worked into the package. You’ll just have to remember to keep your circle of friends down to a minimum.

• Top speed for the Four Winns V278 (2008-) is 38.3 MPH (61.6 KPH), burning 22.8 gallons per hour (GPH) or 86.3 liters per hour (LPH).


• Best cruise for the Four Winns V278 (2008-) is 32.9 MPH (52.9 KPH), and the boat gets 2.24 miles per gallon (MPG) or 0.95 kilometers per liter (KPL), giving the boat a cruising range of 172 miles (276.81 kilometers).


• Tested power is 1 x 300-hp MerCruiser 350 MPI.

= Standard = Optional

Full Warranty Information on this brand coming soon!