Best Boats of 2007

We pick the 10 models that will most change the shape of boating this year and beyond. These boats rank as our "must-considers."

By Boating Staff

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BEST BIG-WATER RECREATIONAL BOAT

Four Winns Horizon 310
We braced ourselves for impact in wind-blown two-foot waves during a trial run on the 310. Months later we still remember the smooth ride. The 310 could be the brawniest bowrider we've ever tested, and we were only running on 65 gallons of fuel (half the capacity).

The 310's size isn't what leaves the deepest impression. It's the endless features, the most extraordinary being the day berth. The berth is deceptive because it does not infringe on the big open bow like a mid-cuddy does. It stretches under the long port bench, and is ample enough to be tricked out with a flat-screen TV, DVD player and microwave. Even our tallest editor did not feel scrunched. Oh, a 53.5 mph top speed didn't hurt the boat's standing either.

Editors' Take
They didn't infringe on the space of a big bowrider or the qualities of a day berth.

Best of All
The berth is big enough for a seven-foot person to lie down and watch tv, and it has a sliding hatch to the cockpit so you can stay involved with the action.

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Glastron before restoration

This 1978 Glastron GT 150 with a 1978 85 hsp Johnson outboard runs beautifully, but it has been in a 3-year restoration about to be concluded. Its floor, transom and stringers were rotted out and the gel coat was cracked, crazed and cloudy. The windshield was cracked and the upholstery was beyond repair. Keep an eye out for the restored beauty in the next few months.