Beneteau Swift 34:
We Survey the Boat
When our team spent 16 days on board the Beneteau Swift 34 during part of her "Great Loop" journey, we had one question: What would the boat look like after being manhandled for over 6,500 miles by 12 different crews unfamiliar with the boat? How would she fair in a survey after that “test of time”? To find out we had one of our test captains -- who is also a certified surveyor -- conduct a video inspection after the trip.
Start the survey here...
Ask a question about any Swift model.
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Updated
Captain's Report
Scout 177 Winyah:
Four Different Models Are Offered
During our review of the Scout 177 one thing became perfectly obvious -- this builder focuses on the details of its small boats just as vigorously as it does on its larger models. When compared to other 17' shallow-water fishing rigs, the Scout 177 stands out with fine points such as the plush upholstered helm seat, the finish quality in areas that are hidden (sort of like Steve Jobs did with Apple products), and clever fishing features.
More...
Request a brochure
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New Review
Mercury 60-hp EFI Bigfoot:
What Makes the "Bigfoot" Different?
Mercury engineered the Bigfoot series to add more torque and power allowing the same horsepower engine the ability to do more work. Overall the engine is the same size, but some of the components are larger. For example, this 60-hp Bigfoot has the same gearcase as a 115-hp engine allowing it to turn a larger diameter prop. The specially designed anti-ventilation plate prevents surface air from being drawn into the prop for less slippage and better overall efficiency. But these are just the start of the differences and advantages. Today we take a video tour of the highlights of the 60 Bigfoot.
More...
Ask a repower question.
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Captain's Report
Cypress Cay 230 Seabreeze Fish:
Fish Now, Cruise Later
The Cypress Cay 230 Seabreeze Fish started out life as a cruising boat, but instead of taking the easy route of adding some token fish gear in order to turn her into a Fish 'n Cruise toon, Cypress Cay went all out and made a dedicated conversion to a pontoon fishing boat. She can still be cruised on, but the family that has a fisherman in the house will certainly appreciate it much more.
The full report...
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Video Review
Evinrude ICON:
Digital Controls for E-TEC Engines
The days of having a long cable transfer from shift and throttle levers to the engine may not be gone for good, but they are definitely on their way out. It’s much more efficient to move the lever and have a wire carry a signal to a servo on the engine. Then, several things are possible: one controller can signal up to 5 engines, multiple control stations are as simple as running wires, and the controller itself can have lots of cool features that were simply not possible before. Today, we take a detailed look at how Evinrude's ICON works and what functions are available.
More...
Ask a repower/digital controls question.
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Review Video
Formula 270 Sun Sport:
For Days or Nights on the Water
Formula is no stranger to adding upscale features to its product line, and the 270 SS can easily transition from daytrips to overnights while keeping her sporty demeanor and first class treatments that make us nod our heads and say “yes, she's a Formula.” At the New York Boat Show we took a look at Formula's latest iteration of the 270 SS.
See what we found...
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Factory Video
Intrepid Powerboats:
The Difference Is in the Build
We’ve long been touting the differences in the way things are done at Intrepid Powerboats. This company makes some of the most sought-after boats in the world and they’re built to exacting standards. They cost more, but in this “you-get-what-you-pay-for” world that we live in, Intrepid has proven that there are people who still appreciate paying for top quality. And the fact that all Intrepids are sold factory-direct means that more of "what you pay for" goes into the build. Today we show what differentiates this company from most others. More...
Find out about a factory tour. |
Review Video
Mako 184 Center Console:
The Virtue of Keeping it Simple
Mako’s name has been synonymous with center consoles for decades now. Over the years they have proved that because they’re built tough they can take lots of punishment. After a day on the water they usually need little more than a garden hose for maintenance. This Mako 184 CC is an example of how this simple boat can be outfitted for getting the job done, while still staying easy and economical to operate.
More...
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Test Video
MJM 36z:
A Yacht for Veteran Cruisers
The MJM 36z is a cruising yacht specifically designed and purpose-built by veteran cruisers who know what ingredients a yacht like this needs. She can be a large entertainment platform as a day boat, but she can also go the distance, be a live-aboard, and be easily handled by a single person. Aside from her outstanding handling capabilities, her test numbers speak volumes about her design. More...
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Video Review
Riviera 53 Enclosed Flybridge:
Interior Room Is Her Mission
With so many gathering areas, and a roomy layout, we were all but convinced that the sum of the parts is more than the whole on this 59’8” (18.2 m) yacht. The enclosed flying bridge adds lots of extra living space without a commensurate increase in price.
See what we mean...
Ask a question about this model.
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Video Review
Tigé Touch:
A Wakeboat Touchscreen Controller
"Tigé Touch" not only gives complete control of the boat's speed, but it also controls the ballast tanks, lights, tunes, bilge pumps, and a host of other goodies. That’s all well and good, but the question on our minds was… is it easy to use? Capt. Steve is pretty good at determining if something needs an owner’s manual attached to it or not, so we sent him in, with "no peeking" ahead of time, to find out if this controller is as easy to use as it is innovative.
More...
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Sponsor
Shurhold Buffing Tip:
How to Remove Oxidation
Boating season is approaching, at least for the poor folks in northern latitudes. Now is the time to start working on that shine. Shurhold has just the thing for removing last season’s oxidation and restore a showroom shine, and no professional help is needed.
More...
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Lesson of the Week
Negligent Boat Operation Is a Federal Crime
In this week's lesson, Capt. Steve points out some examples of what boating negligence is and the penalties you may face. The obvious lesson here is that if you practice smart boating you avoid all penalties of poor judgment. There is also a helpful video on what to do if the authorities stop you. The videos presented this week are part of BoatTEST.com's USCG-approved boating course called “Smart Boating.” Watch these video boating lessons every week on BoatTEST.com.
To view this week’s lessons --
Order all lessons on DVD--
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Ducky Award
Winner
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"Come on kids! We're vacationing in Europe!" - R. Belanger
Second Place
"Found the problem! Water in the gas."
- B. Davis
Third Place
"Perfect. Now just drop the tailgate and I'll drive her in." - M. Latva |
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