Captain's Report

The Heart of the Beast

The technology begins with Formula’s Advanced Speed, Stability, Structural Technology (FAS³Tech) multi-plane hull. It incorporates three separate running surfaces produced by two steps built into the hull. The “steps” serve to force air under the hull and reduce surface friction for an even faster ride than a boat with a smooth deep-V. Some builders put in one step, but Formula puts in two. This stepped bottom has proven itself by dominating the APBA Factory 2 circuit for several years. Formula has earned several National and World Championships using race-rigged versions of the same performance hull that can be bought in their recreational version.

Limit HP and Don’t Sacrifice the Weight

Because Formula doesn’t want to strive for the fastest boat, they’re free to do two key things: keep the horsepower between 850 and 1400 and add strength to the hull by slightly sacrificing weight savings. Formula adds the strength (and weight) and the amenities. Rather than use a traditional stringer system injected with super light closed-cell foam, Formula utilizes a separately made fiberglass grid system that gets chemically bonded to the hull. The result is a heavier, stronger boat, and that means a more solid riding boat and therefore a safer boat. And yes...slightly slower, but so far no one’s complained.

And Then There Are the Amenities

The stern features four-across seating. The dual bucket seats are McLeod offshore-style seats that wraparound both operator and navigator for comfort in sustained high-speed operations. Rocker switches on each armrest actuate the electric bolster and the electrically actuated footrest. All seats are treated with Prefixx for easy cleanup. Cabin access is through a centerline companionway.

The helm is laid out with Livorsi Monster & Redline backlit gauges. One's right hand will rest comfortably on the Livorsi chromed shifters/throttles with an in-handle outdrive trim switch at their thumb position. The Kenwood waterproof dash-mounted multi-feature stereo remote control is just above the engine controls, and fingertip K-Plane and outdrive trim override switches just ahead of the remote.

The Cabin

Moving below, the cabin is nicely appointed. Fully forward is a bow berth upholstered in Ultraleather. Just aft is a wraparound lounge/dinette which by lowering the Corian table, can convert to another double berth should the boater decide to bring another pair of friends to spend the night.

Power Options

The base boat is powered by a pair of 430-hp 8.2 MAG High Output MerCruiser engines attached to B1X outdrives ($429,730). There are nine upgrade choices topping out at a pair of Mercury Racing 700-hp SCi NXT1s ($595,570). If that engine option is chosen, then one will surely want the Mercury Racing X-Haust noise reduction system as well (add $17,450).

Recommendation

While still addressing the need for speed, Formula also managed to squeeze in creature comforts that are not found on some competing brands. In this manner, Formula is managing to fill a niche market with a go-fast boat that has a comfortable and classy side, and as much brute force that is wanted up to 1400-hp. It’s a “have your cake and eat it too” boat that will be around for a long time. At least long enough for Formula to feel at ease by standing behind the boat with a 10-year structural warranty.

All high-performance boats are not the same. Some are built in a rented bay in an industrial park by enthusiasts who were somewhere else yesterday and will be gone tomorrow. They have virtually no overhead, do not follow ABYC standards, are not NMMA certified and will often disappear at the first sign of a lawsuit. That is why when buying any boat, much less a high-performance vessel, one should go with an established company such as Formula.And, let’s face it – these boats can be dangerous, because speed can be dangerous. If the boater thinks they are ready to move up into the rarified atmosphere of a high performance boat, and they can afford it, then our recommendation is that they go with a brand whose management and culture is dedicated to safety as well as speed. Formula is one such company.

Standard and Optional Features