Tested By Capt. Bob Smith

The Bayliner 195 uses a cockpit forward design to deliver a boat with outstanding space, yet still offers plenty of bow seating. Bayliner uses large reverse chines, large lifting strakes and more to deliver a Smooth Ride System you will enjoy.

Starting at the Bow

The bow seating area wraps from the port lounger back around to a matching starboard lounger back. The seats are four inches thick for long lasting comfort. Each lounger back lifts for access to storage space in the helm and companion pod fronts, or to mount optional equipment like a CD changer. The cushions lift for access to storage under the benches including space for a Danforth style anchor and line under the bow seat. The wraparound windshield has a full frame protecting it and a large walkthrough for easy movement from the bow and cockpit.

Cockpit Layout

The cockpit space is larger than many in her size range, due to the cockpit forward design. Large side pocket storage can handle the life jackets or even some of the skis. My model had the standard back-to-back seats that were anything but “standard.” These seats are constructed with plastic rather than plywood that begins to break down faster than you can use them. Stainless steel parts also increase longevity. When needed, spread them out and you can lift the ends to make comfortable headrests while catching a nap. The companion pod has a glove box that has the stereo mounted inside with another slot below for an MP3 player or other portable to be connected. You also have a 12volt socket conveniently beside this for powering your portable gear. Both the companion pod and the helm have low glare grey gelcoat for better view in the sun. The instrument cluster is waterproof and convenient to view underway.

Engine Access

The engine hatch separates two jump seats at the stern of the cockpit. Each seat lifts up to give you access to fully finished spaces below. The seat backs are hinged and lifting them give you access to other components like the battery and hydraulic pump. Place the seats in slots above and the engine hatch completes a beam width sun pad. Remove the engine pad and the hatch becomes a center walkthrough from the stern platform, complete with a built-in step on the front. The beam width platform is large enough to hoist yourself up and get ready for your next adventure. A covered long reach ladder is on the starboard side and completes this area.

Specs

This model measures 19 feet in length overall and has a beam width of 7 feet 11 inches. Her dry weight is approximately 2,650 pounds and hull draft is 20 inches, with a maximum draft of 3 feet. The 195 from Bayliner has a fuel capacity of 35 gallons.

Performance and Handling

The 195 handled very well and docked with amazing agility. It was a pretty calm day when I had her out, so I cannot tell you how she handles in rough chop. I found she was quick from the start, getting up on plane in just 2.8 seconds, so she should be a lot of fun for skiing. I found her most economical cruising speed at 3000rpms traveling 35.2mph with a fuel burn of 8.5 gph. At this speed you can expect a range of 130 miles on the 35 gallons of fuel. Wide-open-throttle speed was achieved at 52.8mph turning 4600 rpms with a fuel burn of 18.5gph.

If you are looking for family runabout with room for eight and agility to play the watersports a typical family today likes, the new 195 runabout from Bayliner is a good choice to have on your list to test this season.

• Top speed for the Bayliner 195 Bowrider is 52.8 mph (85 kph), burning 18.5 gallons per hour (gph) or 70.02 liters per hour (lph).


• Best cruise for the Bayliner 195 Bowrider is 41.4 mph (66.6 kph), and the boat gets 4.11 miles per gallon (mpg) or 1.75 kilometers per liter (kpl), giving the boat a cruising range of 130 miles (209.21 kilometers).


• Tested power is 1 x 220-hp MerCruiser 5.0L carb.