New Formula 380 SSC | Grady-White 326 | Fairline Targa 65 GT - 10/29/19
BoatTEST Newsletter October 29, 2019
New Captain's Report
Grady-White Canyon 326:
Built for the Whole Family
First thought on viewing the expansive and comfortable bow lounging and sunning area of the Grady-White Canyon 326 might be, “Is this really a Grady?” The 60-year old brand, long-known for building durable, hardcore fishing boats, also adds creature-comforts to its models. Note the fold-away backrests at the bow of the 326 Canyon, providing chaise-type seating, and the filler cushions to create a sun pad. Another nod to the family is in the console head. It includes a flush toilet, mirror, stainless sink, pull-out shower, towel racks and an opening port for ventilation. Take a closer look here...
Test Video
Fairline Targa 65 GT:
Practical Owner/Operator Features
In this video of the new Fairline Targa 65 GT, Captain Steve takes a look at her operational features. One structural feature that will be much appreciated is the level of sound-proofing around the engine room and the twin Cat 1150-hp C18s. We recorded just 63 dBa at 1000 rpm at the helm, and only 76 dBa at full throttle. Just as importantly, we recorded only 78.3 dBa at full throttle in the master stateroom, thanks to more than 5" (13.7 cm) of sound-deadening material between the engine room and the master bath. There are similar thoughtful engineering touches throughout. More...
***Special VIP Invitation***
Formula Debuts the 380 Super Sport Crossover
Formula 380 Super Sport Crossover
Formula invites BoatTEST members to a special VIP viewing of the all-new 380 Super Sport Crossover. She features a SmartZone design that is utilized for entertainment, plus a FASTech multi-step hull technology. The single level deck offers a transition to the bow from the hardtop, with a top-to-bottom windshield and exclusive sliding bow window. Triple command seating, two distinct lounge areas aft plus the outdoor kitchen bring the full Formula experience.
To reserve your VIP spot in advance, click here...
New Review Video
Fusion Signature Series II
Stereo Speakers & Amplifiers:
Audio Tuned to Perfection
Fusion Signature Series II Stereo Speakers & Amplifiers
A surprising number of the boats that come to us for testing at BoatTEST.com are equipped with Fusion speakers and amplifiers. There’s a reason for that, or rather multiple reasons: Fusion is one of the few companies in the world that builds sound equipment specifically for the marine environment, making them rugged, water-resistant and capable of producing high fidelity sound that can be fully enjoyed in the open and sometimes noisy conditions on board. Fusion works with well-known boat builders like Sea Ray to design sound packages that deliver just the right levels of power and modulation at various locations throughout the boat, with different designs for the cabin, the helm, the cockpit and the swim platform. And of course, there are the specialized “cans” seen on the towers of many dressed-out water sports boat. Here's what to look for...
Captain's Report
Grand Banks 60 Skylounge:
Excellent Finishes, Exceptionally Equipped
The Grand Banks 60 Skylounge should appeal to people who appreciate a premium class long-range cruiser with an interior swathed in virtually flawless satin-finish teak joinery. Thanks to her hull design and lightweight construction with extensive use of carbon fiber in the superstructure, she achieves operating efficiency throughout the range of the twin 900-hp Volvo D13 diesels. Top speed was 31 knots at 2350 rpm. At a cruise of 25 knots and 2020 rpm, she burned 60 gph for a range of 574 nautical miles, with a 10% reserve on the 1,530-gallon (5,792 L) fuel capacity. At 10 knots, her range is impressive at 1720 NM. More...
Boating Tips
Is Your Helm Station a Good Fit?
Is Your Helm Station a Good Fit?
NMMA certification of boats means the helmsman is assured of good lines of sight that meet specific ABYC standards for the height of the eye from a standing and seated position. This is an important requirement, but it’s not met by some boats on the market. Here’s a look at the standards, which can serve as a good checklist when you go shopping for your next boat. If the helm of a particular model doesn’t “fit” you, you may want to look a bit longer. Of course, while the builders do all they can to produce safe boats, the ultimate responsibility still rests with the operator. More...
Expert Boating
BoatTEST.com's
4-DVD Boating Course
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Based on the feedback we've been getting about BoatTEST.com's Video Boating Course, it's clearly not only for beginners but for veteran boaters as well. Perhaps that is why the NMMA started promoting the course after just one look. It's the most complete boating course available... period. Order your 4-disc box set...
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