Tested by Capt. Brandon DeNatale

Rampage has always been known for its hardcore offshore fishing capabilities and sea-kindly handling. The company’s 30 Express model, which is available in both gas and diesel applications, she’s a seriously rigged fishing boat that boasts creature comforts the whole family can enjoy.

Behind the Wheel

The helm console provides plenty of room for all of your electronics and gauges. And the large windshield and hardtop provide the protection you need when running offshore. At the helm the clutches, wheel, and throttles are well placed, and all the needed breaker switches are low and out of the way. The helm seat is also comfortable and can swivel to face the rear when needed. And with the tilt wheel and footrest you’re comfortable driving in any condition.

The companion bench seat can fit two and also provides footrests. There are two drink holders there and room for storing personal items. On the dash there is a built-in chart table and on the windshield vents allow for fresh air. In the center of the walkway there is an engine room hatch that gives access to the tops of the engines. Directly behind the helm seat is a bench concealing an insulated cooler. To port is the bait prep station with sink, rigging board, and tackle storage below.

Cockpit

The cockpit on the 30 Express has a removable 5 ½ foot fish box with built-in macerator pump, nice wide side decks with rod holders, and a large 38 gallon custom baitwell with light. The cockpit sole is already reinforced for adding a fighting chair if you want and this heavy-duty transom door with self-locking latch will let you pull in that prize-winning catch.

The bridge deck raises to provide access to the engines below. You do need to be flexible to get to the backs of the engines as I found it to be a tight fit, but there is good ventilation and room for getting to the major points.

From the cockpit molded steps provide good, safe footing when going forward. The side decks are adequate, and the handrails high and stout.

Accommodations Below

The cabin is a great spot to get out of the elements and warm up. You can also comfortably overnight there with accommodations for four. Over to starboard is a long bench seat that serves as two single bunks when the upper section is pulled out. There is also plenty of storage beneath and above for rods and gear, and this dinette provides a comfortable place to eat.

The ship's electrical system panel, CD stereo radio, and controls for the air and heat are also within reach. Over to port is the head compartment with custom vanity, electric head, and built-in shower with sump pump. Forward of the head is the galley with single burner cooktop, sink, microwave, and coffee maker. Above there is storage for your provisions and below is even more storage, the refrigerator/freezer, and drawers.

All the way forward is the large berth with custom mattress, TV/DVD and plenty of lights for reading in bed. And this hanging locker ensures plenty of stowage for your gear. All of the basic needs are met in this 30-footer.

Performance Numbers

We tested both the gas and diesel models and both were good performers. Our tests concluded that with the diesel application you have greater range and lower fuel costs over the long run. Equipped with a pair of 300-hp MerCruiser 350 MAG MPI engines we reached a top speed of 34.7 mph at 4850 rpms. We found her most economical cruise speed at 4000 rpms, moving along at just under 30 mph, getting 1.03 mpg, for a range of 232 miles.

The 30 handled well in rough conditions and provided a comfortable ride at all speeds. I found her to be a little wet in the waves, but the large windshield kept everyone dry.

With the twin Yanmar 6LPA-STP 315-hp diesels the Rampage 30 had a WOT of 36.5 mph and a best cruise of 25.9 mph, getting 1.55 mph, or 50% better fuel economy than with the gas engines. This is a dramatic difference

Recommendation

The Rampage 30 is a classic, time-proven offshore sportfisherman worth a look by anyone hankering to land a billfish or tune -- or even a striper or bluefish. For an owner who plans to hold on to the boat and work her hard, diesel will probably pay off over time and in the meantime the owner can reap the dividend of safety and reliability.

• Top speed for the Rampage 30 Express (2003- ) is 36.5 mph (58.7 kph), burning 36.3 gallons per hour (gph) or 137.4 liters per hour (lph).


• Best cruise for the Rampage 30 Express (2003- ) is 25.9 mph (41.7 kph), and the boat gets 1.55 miles per gallon (mpg) or 0.66 kilometers per liter (kpl), giving the boat a cruising range of 348 miles (560.05 kilometers).


• Tested power is 2 x 315-hp Yanmar 6LPA-STP.