We Say: Think of a solid offshore center console with a single 300 brake horsepower fuel-sipping diesel sterndrive instead of outboards. Enclose the helm and the area behind it as a living area with a mini galley. Then put a V-berth and head forward, and you’ve got a good image of this boat. In its home waters of Finland, a boat like this is common because of the heated all-weather protection, smooth ride and some outdoor space for the short summers. Here it’s an ideal year-rounder, spreading the cost of boating over more months of enjoyment.
It’s enclosed, but airy with a large sunroof, sliding side doors and plenty of windows — with only two small blind spots aft. It is simply but elegantly fitted out, no frills but all done to a high level of craftsmanship. Safety is a priority with handrails everywhere, high sides and even a backup manual bilge pump. The supercharged/turbo diesel gives rapid acceleration, and deadrise of 20 degrees smoothes a chop and banks into a turn without losing its grip. A bow thruster is available but not needed with the standard Duoprop drive. This 25-foot- 6-inch (plus 2-foot platform) boat is the perfect adventure cruiser for a trim European family of four, or two 6-foot, 220-pound American males.
Who’d Want One: Anyone who never wants to say it’s too cold, rainy or hot to go out on the boat.
Another Choice: A Nord Star 26 is similar in style, costing $180,000 powered like our test boat. The Nordic 26 and Ranger R25 tugs are slightly smaller and a lot slower.
Bottom Line: $181,000; skarnemarine.com
