More Boat for Your Buck

Cruising just got a little better with the introduction of the Cabrio 330, which delivers both fuel economy and increased performance.

By Capt. Ron Svoboda

For many years, performance boat manufacturers have reaped the benefits of stepped bottom hulls. Some builders go as far as putting several of these steps or notches as air-entrapment systems on their boats to achieve maximum performance and increased fuel mileage. So the big news on the Cabrio 330 is her patented Duo Delta-Conic hull. Just like the performance builders, Larson has integrated their own version of this nautical magic, giving the typical lumbering and thirsty cruiser, a leaner, more athletic character.

Performance

How well does it really work? Well, on a steamy summer day in Florida, we reached a surprising top speed of 44 miles-per-hour at 5000 rpm. At 4000 rpm the boat swiftly cruised at 34 miles-per-hour for a respectable range of 238 miles from the 240 gallon fuel capacity. That calculates out to be just over a mile a gallon. Considering the Cabrio’s overall length of 32 feet, beam of 11’6” and 11,400 pound dry weight, that’s an impressive fuel rate. Our test boat was powered by a pair of 320 horsepower sterndrives with dual counter-rotating props.

Cockpit Features

The cockpit features wraparound seating that converts to a spacious dinette with a rectangular snack table or a European style sun lounge with optional filler cushion installed. If you like to dive or use the boat for fishing, all the seats can be removed, which is a great feature. There is also a port side wet bar that has a pair of sinks on top with an optional fridge or icemaker below.

At the Controls

Up at the helm, the captain pilots the vessel with a mahogany tilt steering wheel and two-tier instrument panel. The upper tier has anti-fog gauges set in burlwood trim panels, while the lower tier is reserved for your choice of accessory navigation equipment. But the best feature about the helm is the standard SeaKey Telematics. This a 24-hour satellite monitoring system similar to that of General Motor’s On-Star system, gives peace of mind and the location of a good marina, all at the touch of a button.

Swim Platform

Now as for the rest of the boat, like all the Larson cruisers, an extended swim platform comes as standard equipment, and adds to the molded platform, creating large area for water activities. The shore power hook-ups and a shower are concealed in dual stern lockers. The starboard side unit is huge and is perfect for stowing a set of large fenders.

Spacious Cabin

Down below, the cabin is open and airy. The wide beam provides space to relax and entertain with a plush, L-shaped dinette which converts into a berth for two adults. Entertainment for the boat is handled with a flat panel TV with built-in DVD player located on the forward bulk head, along with a Clarion CD stereo equipped with Sirius satellite radio. Directly to port is a large galley well equipped for a boat of this size with enough room to work, and features ample storage space and long solid surface countertop. Appliances include a two-burner electric cooktop, microwave oven, fridge /freezer combo and a giant coffeemaker. Also located to port is a roomy head and stand-up shower compartment with considerable storage, vanity with sink and a porcelain toilet.

Sleeping Accommodations

All the way forward in the cabin, is a double berth set at an angle to provide maximum legroom for tall people. Cabinets on the port and starboard side help with storage of personal items. In the back of the cabin, the Cabrio offers a sunken mid-cabin, large enough for several overnight guests. Or the space can be used as an additional sitting area with a table installed.

Conclusion

If you’re in the market for a thirty something cruiser, then you know the choices that are available. Many of the boats on the market all blend together after awhile, but where Larson differs from the rest is mainly on quality of design and execution. Secondly, if you like to really travel some miles on your trips, then the Cabrio 330 will make you smile when filling her up at the gas dock, because you’ll plenty of range out of each fill up.

• Top speed for the Larson Cabrio 330 (2006-) is 47 MPH (75.6 KPH), burning gallons per hour (GPH) or N/A liters per hour (LPH).


• Best cruise for the Larson Cabrio 330 (2006-) is 34.0 MPH (54.7 KPH), and the boat gets 1.10 miles per gallon (MPG) or 0.47 kilometers per liter (KPL), giving the boat a cruising range of 238 miles (383.02 kilometers).


• Tested power is 2 x 320-hp MerCruiser 6.2L MPI.

Larson Cabrio 330 (2006-) Standard and Optional Equipment

Marine Electronics
VHF Radio
Systems
Air Cond./Heat
Battery Charger/Converter
CD Stereo
Head: Fixed
Power Steering
Shore Power
Trim Tabs
TV/DVD
Galley
Coffeemaker
Icemaker
Microwave
Refrigerator
Stove
Exterior Features
Carpet: Cockpit
Outlet: 12-Volt Acc
Swim Ladder
Swim Platform
Wet bar
Canvas
Camper Back
Boats More Than 30 Feet
Engine Synchronizer
Generator

= Standard = Optional