Glastron is making a name for itself as a surf-boat company, and it’s not doing it with rough-riding inboard systems. The company is doing it with Volvo Penta’s trimmable Forward Drive, a system that gives the boat better maneuverability than most other drive systems and the smooth ride only trim adjustments can offer.
On the GTD 225 Surf and Fish, counter-rotating dual props face forward, and they’re set forward of the transom, well away from riders behind the boat. Exhaust is funneled through the prop hub, keeping the air behind the transom fresh and safe. Our 280 hp system gave plenty of thrust to move big crews, and we proved it in our tests. Our expert surf rider liked the ride for its long, forgiving wave with excellent push. Ballast and Zero Off speed control enhance the ride experience. Couple those with a full crew in the arena seating and the ride will be epic.
The open deck plan maximizes seating, first by adding arena seating from port to starboard amidships and aft to the transom. And you can still have a walk-through to the transom; just lift the starboard sun-pad cushion. Keeping that propped up gives you a reclining lounge. Forward seating is generous too. Long and wide port and starboard lounges allow access to the anchor locker with its bow boarding ladder. That arrangement makes the boat ideal for beaches and sandbars.
The portside boarding gate is also convenient and unique. Lift the coaming to reveal a step to the deck, maximizing easy boarding options.
We found a convenient pop-up changing room under the forward lounge to starboard, and on our test boat that compartment was equipped with a portable head. The lounge seat cushion under which it resided flipped vertically and held its position thanks to the special hinges, forming a useful space with some privacy.
Glastron offers an exciting exterior finish, and it doesn’t skimp on interior style either. Quilted vinyl insets and multiple textures add good looks to the supple fabric. The marine-mat high-density-foam sole cover snaps in and out for easy cleaning. Underneath the mat is a nonskid fiberglass sole.
High Points
- Livewell, fishing chairs and trolling motor are available with the fishing package.
- Extended swim platform is roomy and eases reboarding.
- Open deck plan maximizes passenger capacity, enhancing surf wakes.
Price: $65,467
How We Tested
Engine: 280 hp Volvo Penta 280-C/FWD
Drive/Props: Forward Drive/K4 stainless-steel Duoprop propset
Gear Ratio: 2.32:1
Fuel Load: 25 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
Glastron Boats – Cadillac, Michigan; 231-775-1351; glastron.com
