A Fishboat That Will Bring You Years of Enjoyment

Tested by Capt. Brandon De Natale

The 230 Walkaround from Caravelle is truly a fisherman’s delight. Based on the very popular outboard version Caravelle now offers the 230 WA in a stern drive version, which should make many people happy. Our test boat was equipped with a 300-hp Mercury 350 Mag, which enabled us to reach a top speed of 45 mph. And the 230 WA also has an enjoyable cruising speed of 31 mph, with a good fuel consumption rate of 9.7gph, which means you can run for 375 miles between fuel stops.

Construction

The 230 WA features a wood free hull construction, closed cell foam construction and the 24-degree deep V-hull offers a comfortable and stable ride. With the standard trim-tabs getting the boat trimmed out and running is made easy. One of the nicest features is how well Caravelle has utilized all the space aboard. From the large cuddy cabin to the large open cockpit this is a boat that can fit, and be enjoyed by the whole family.

Functional Layout

Back on the stern the large swim platform and walk-through transom gate make getting on and off the boat safe and easy. And with the engine access in the aft cockpit, getting to it for routine maintenance and daily checks isn’t a chore. The transom also features aerated bait well, raw water wash down, and fish box with work station keeping everything at close reach. Under the step leading through the transom door is a built in tackle box, which is placed right where you’ll need it. The engine cover didn’t take up much room in the cockpit and it actually would serve well for placing gear when at anchor or even serve as a bench seat when fishing off the stern.

The Cockpit

In the center of the cockpit floor there is a generous 5ft long fish box, which is sure to serve well when the fish start biting. Cushions pad the side of the aft cockpit and provide comfort when leaning against them or reaching over to bring your catch onboard. There are also four stainless steel rod holds in the gunwale for storing your rods. Under the gunwale you’ll find horizontal storage for items such as a gaff or small rod. Up forward in the cockpit we find two insulated coolers with drains that double as bench seats with cushions.

Helm Station and Controls

Forward of the aft cockpit is the helm station with two pedestal chairs and plenty of room for all of your electronics. Faria gauges and all switches and controls are located for easy use. There are also plenty of cup holders and a well-placed built-in footrest at the helm station ensuring a solid footing when operating the boat. There is also plenty of room at the helm to stand when the weather gets nasty.

Our test boat had the optional T-Top and I would suggest this to anyone interested in extending their boating season. It also provided plenty of shade and it will soon be available in a hard top with electronics box. You can also attach outriggers and the addition of rocket launchers frees up the cockpit when you’re not fishing.

Cuddy Cabin

Accessed just to port of the helm is the cuddy cabin. This is an excellent addition for overnight fishing trips or even a long weekend out with the family. There is a large bunk with filler cushion and to starboard is the marine head that makes overnighting a possibility. There are also two portholes with screens hatch above to provide plenty of ventilation below.

Getting to and from the bow is made easy with nice wide side decks and solid railings. And with the optional T-Top there are large support poles to use when getting around. Once up on the bow there is plenty to hold onto and with the integrated pulpit with anchor roller, dropping the hook should prove an easy feat. There is even a cushion up here to provide a place to sit while underway or at anchor.

In Conclusion

So if your looking for a multi-purpose boat that you can fish on Saturdays and take the family out on Sundays the Sea Hawk 230 WA might just be the boat you’ve been looking for. It’s a boat that has loads to offer, and with the high quality components it’s a boat that will bring you years of enjoyment.

• Top speed for the Caravelle Sea Hawk 230 Walk Around SD is 44.7 mph (71.9 kph), burning 18.1 gallons per hour (gph) or 68.51 liters per hour (lph).


• Best cruise for the Caravelle Sea Hawk 230 Walk Around SD is 31.1 mph (50.1 kph), and the boat gets 3.21 miles per gallon (mpg) or 1.36 kilometers per liter (kpl), giving the boat a cruising range of 375 miles (603.5 kilometers).


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