Related Articles
Top end? Who cares? We liked the combination of speed and responsiveness the Commodore 3780 displayed at 26 mph. We were able to keep it on plane and maneuverable at a ride-softening 19 mph. Its no-wake speed was 5.7 mph - a bit slower than most boats of this type we've tested. So if you're rushing to make a bridge opening, don't.
All right, already. The top end was 34 mph: one mile per hour faster than Regal claims the Commodore 3780 goes when powered by the standard gas engines. Again, unless you're a true dock spud, diesel engines are the power of choice in this boat.
CHOICE COMPETITION. Why would you choose the Commodore 3780 instead of a competitor? Carver, Maxum, Silverton, and Sea Ray all produce flying bridge cruisers measuring at, or just over, 40' on the centerline. Maxum's 4100 SCB ($343,189 powered by the same Cummins diesel inboards as our test boat) is probably the closest match, but the Commodore 3780's 36'7" centerline length - 39'10" LOA - makes it hard to do a legitimate comparison based solely on overall length.
Consider this: The Commodore 3780's curtailed dimensions are actually an asset. It's the sedan that will fit in that last, odd-shaped, unsold corner slip at the marina with the long waiting list. It's the boat that you can spin around in a narrow canal. It's the boat that'll cost less to paint, wax, and store. Step aboard and see for yourself. The Commodore 3780 is well finished, bursting with stowage, and encourages long weekends afloat. For an indication of this craft's workmanship, check out any caulked seam. Each bead is consistent in height, width, and butter-like smoothness.
