Absolute 40 STL

Absolute 40 STL

Absolute 40 STL

Absolute 40 STL

Absolute 40 STL

The new Absolute 40 STL reminds me so much of a Bond boat that on test day I half expected Daniel Craig to join me on the water. Instead I got Thomas Knutson of Strong’s Marine, the New York-based dealer that is importing Absolutes to the United States. He assured me that the ride would not be shaken or stirred.

A few things contribute to this boat’s movie star looks. Styling resembles a sedan cruiser with the enclosed hardtop sheared off. The cockpit is elevated high above the waterline, and the open helm is protected by a raked rectangular windshield (as opposed to a wraparound). The entire deck is adorned with teak from stem to stern. The hull sides feature striking angular windows that enhance its dockside appeal.

Cool features, like the transom storage lazarette with a hatch that opens via push-button electric rams, abound. A three-person sun pad with individually adjustable headrests sits atop it. The main cockpit can be accessed by walkways to either side and features plush wraparound seating for eight, a teak cockpit table that folds in half and a well-stocked entertainment center to port.

Belowdecks, those striking windows absolutely bathe the salon and midcabin berth in natural light. That and the white interior with gray accents and the ash-colored oak wood paneling and accents give this boat one of the most airy salons I’ve seen. The midcabin stateroom features a double berth, and the head has a Tecma toilet and an acrylic bifold shower door.

The ride? More Sean Connery than Timothy Dalton. I left the helm seat bolster down, rested my feet on the teak toe-rail inlay and felt the smoother-than-expected acceleration of the twin Volvo Penta diesel sterndrives. The Duoprops contributed to crisp handling, and the 40 STL greeted rolling boat wakes with aplomb. Back at the marina, the joystick system made docking anticlimactic. As did the fact that there was no Bond girl waiting there.