Let the Light Shine In--Regal’s 2565 Window Express

By Capt. Bob Smith

Test Captain

The new 2565 Window Express Cruiser emphasizes a new standard to cabin lighting with its unique window system. I was taken aback at how much on the water entertainment space this new trailerable cruiser offers. The 2565 sports Regal’s proven Ocean-Trac hull that gets you where you want to go fast, dry, and in superior comfort.

Starting at the bow

The design is done right throughout this model starting with the stainless steel skid plate leading from the roller to the anchor windlass, which protects the hull from the chain. Solid 316 stainless steel rails surround the bow and will help keep you safe when working the anchor. Getting back into the cockpit is easy with built-in steps and a walkthrough windshield. With the companionway door closed, even the first step is safe as the opening is completely covered.

Helm Features

Another neat innovation I appreciated was the Dino sport wheel with the stereo controls built-in just as found on many new cars. This wheel features five tilt positions so the captain can adjust it for comfort. Fog-free Faria gauges are clustered around the wheel to monitor the engine performance, and the switches have independent circuit breaker protection. Keeping an eye on the shallows is made easy with a standard digital depth finder, and for navigation a compass tops off the dash. A great option is the spotlight with joystick control at the helm.

Across from the helm is a port side lounger, which has dedicated storage below for the snack table. Even with the table stored away, there is still enough room for a few life jackets and small gear.

Stern Seating

A flip-flop back bench seat offers added seating facing forward. The stern can convert easily into more standing room for a group or fishing space. If tanning is the top priority of the day, flip the bench back in, add the filler cushions and you have another great tanning spot.

Engine Access and Options

The engine hatch flips up with one maneuver so you can get to the engine for pre-launch checks without much hassle. Even with the 5.7 L Volvo engine installed, there is sufficient room for accessing all the check points below. There are plenty of options when it comes to the power plant. You can also substitute a 350 MPI MerCruiser, three models of gas Volvo’s, or a Volvo D3 diesel power plant on this boat.

Transom Features

Just through the starboard transom door is an optional stereo remote to change the tunes without walking to the helm. There is also a wet bar entertainment center with stainless steel ring drinkholders, and a 25-quart carry-on cooler for ice and beverages. There is even dedicated space for a trash bin below.

The swim platform is big enough for a small party and after you take a dip, you can easily get yourself back on board with the deep reach swim ladder. Large fender rings organize the bumpers while away from the dock, and a long grab rail across the back gives you a sure handhold while the boat is maneuvering into the slip or when handling the lines.

Salon

The well light forward V-berth area which can convert into a dinette is maximized by using a unique angled table leg that keeps the floor open and access to the storage below easy. Seat backs are cleverly formed as filler cushions for the V-berth, which is large enough for two adults.

Galley

The tank monitors and the power distribution panel are in a good position and easy to locate next to the galley, as is the stereo. Elegant cabinetry accentuates the storage in the galley spaces. The appliances featured in this model include an electric cooktop, refrigerator, and a microwave.

The stand-up head compartment comes with a vanity, dressing mirror, and Vacu-Flush marine toilet.

Overnights aboard will be comfortable in the mid-cabin berth. It has oversized space with its own storage and twin portals for natural light and ventilation during the day.

Specifics

This new cruiser’s measurements start with its 27’6” length overall. Always a plus is the trailerable beam of 8’6” which gives you options. The 2565 weighs in dry at approximately 5,960. Cabin headroom is measured at 6’1”, bridge clearance is 9’0” and maximum draft is 34” with the drive down. The fuel tank holds 72 gallons of gas and water tank capacity is 20 gallons.

Test Run

Our test boat was outfitted with a Volvo 280-hp 5.7L Gi engine. The 2565 got up on plane in 6.8 seconds and cruised along at 30 mph in just 11.2 seconds. I found her best economical cruise speed at 3500 rpm, which gave us 25.3 mph. Top speed was recorded at 42.6 mph. She was very quiet during the tests with just 81 dBa at cruise and only 88 dBa at top speed.

The new 2565 Window Express certainly sheds a lot of light into the cabin. If you are looking for an innovative cruiser, but want it to be trailerable, the all-new 2565 Window Express Cruiser offers this and more.

• Top speed for the Regal 2565 Window Express (2006-) is 42.6 mph (68.6 kph), burning 23.1 gallons per hour (gph) or 87.43 liters per hour (lph).


• Best cruise for the Regal 2565 Window Express (2006-) is 25.3 mph (40.7 kph), and the boat gets 2.40 miles per gallon (mpg) or 1.02 kilometers per liter (kpl), giving the boat a cruising range of 156 miles (251.06 kilometers).


• Tested power is 1 x 280-hp Volvo Penta 5.7Gi.