Speeds measured with Stalker ProSports radar gun. Fuel consumption (gallons per hour) measured with Floscan digital fuel-flow meter on gas inboards, sterndrives, and outboards, TechMate electronic scan tool on gas EFI inboards, Caterpillar digital fuel-flow meter on diesel engines, or permanently installed fuel-monitoring equipment. Range is based on 90% of published fuel capacity. Sound levels determined using Radio Shack digital decibel meter on A scale. 68 dBA is the level of normal conversation.

Performance Chart

Test Conditions

Standard and Optional Equipment

Systems
Trailer
Exterior Features
Carpet: Cockpit
Outlet: 12-Volt Acc
Swim Ladder
Swim Platform
Canvas
Bimini Top
Cockpit Cover
Full Canvas

= Standard = Optional

Tested by Capt. Ron Svoboda

Family values take on a whole new meaning when you’re on the water, and Bayliner had that in mind when they designed this 195 Classic. The Interminable 195 has been in the Bayliner stable for 20 years. Traditional Mediterranean lines emit from the 195’s blocky, retro look. It seems this style has never gone out of fashion according to the huge number of these little runabouts Bayliner has sold over the years. Focused on functionality and easy handling, the 195 is a lesson in frugality and practicality.

The Bow

The bowrider floor plan allows up to four people to enjoy the cruise, while wrap-around cushions and long stainless steel grab handles provide comfort. Sorry folks, there were no cup holders to be found up front in the bow’s lounge area. Under the removable cushions are generous storage compartments, perfect for stowing bulky PFD’s when not in use.

Behind the Wheel

The helm is about the only item that seemed different from the 195’s time warped styling. The dash looks as if it were plucked from a modern sport cruiser. The oval gauge cluster includes instrumentation for speed and tach. The fuel level, oil pressure, engine temperature, and voltage are also displayed with a classy touch. The tilt-steering wheel is well padded and MerCruiser supplies the gunwale-mounted controls.

Cockpit Seating

The companion seat to port features a generously sized, self-draining cooler. The door of the cooler is large, and could be used as a sandwich table. You also have quick access to the cassette stereo system behind the splash proof door, as well as a convenient cup holder located next to the windshield supports. Vinyl grab handles mounted on the gunwales provide riders with a little something to hold on to.

The dual sleeper style seats are nicely contoured and provide the comfort in the cockpit. These versatile seats can be used to face forward, or they can face aft for a ski observer. Or, the seat can be lowered to supply a semi-private sun lounge with tilting headrest. There are plenty of storage nooks in the 195’s side coaming panels. Small or long items will fit perfectly here, as well as towels. If you need to store skis or a wakeboard, you may be able to use the compartment under the carpeted hatch in the cockpit’s sole.

Transom Features

The aft side of the cockpit is pure functionality. Centered on the transom is an upholstered engine cowling, complete with two cup holders. Adjacent to this cowling are removable jump seats located on the port and starboard sides. Simply removing the starboard side cushion facilitates access over the transom in order to get to the swim platform. Removing the lower engine cowling allows easy access to the motor when servicing. Some folks might find the transom mounted swim platform small, but it does the job and provides a boarding ladder.

Specs

Tipping the scales at a light 2,091 pounds dry, the light and nimble boat will be a breeze to launch, load and maneuver. At a scant 18 feet, 9 inches long, the 7 foot, 7 inch wide boat will require 34 inches of water to clear the Alpha One drive and propeller.

Test Numbers

This boat was designed to be practical, so you won’t find any exotic power plant under the hood. Instead, you get a reliable MerCruiser carbureted engine and Alpha One stern drive. This package did move the boat to a top speed of 42.7 miles per hour while the 3-liter engine turned at 4800 rpm. Cruise speed was a leisurely 24.2 miles per hour at 3,000 rpm. This pace provided the best fuel economy and a range of 123 miles from the Classic’s 23-gallon fuel tank. All in all the 195 is an affordable boat that provides a smooth ride the whole family will enjoy.