What we think: Princecraft’s new Ventura 190 LW takes up as little space as just about any deck boat on the market. Yet because it’s unmistakably a deck boat, this model has ample bench-style seating forward of the helm, a large lounge in the back, and a full walk-through windshield and dual consoles.
This new model utilizes the same proven hull design as Princecraft’s open-deck 190 models, but incorporates a number of features designed to enhance comfort and versatility. Unlike traditional aluminum deck boat hulls, which rely primarily on cross-member bracing, the 190 LW incorporates a greater number of longitudinal members for additional rigidity. And because it is lighter than a comparable fiberglass boat, the 190 is able to use a midsize outboard to drive the wave-slicing deep-V hull onto plane quickly, and to achieve speeds in the 45 mph range while maintaining good fuel efficiency.
The mid-priced 190 LW incorporates all the features a family would require for a day of fun on the water. There’s dry storage both in the consoles and under each lounge seat, plus a generous in-deck ski locker and a cooler. Water-sports enthusiasts can add a towing tower, enlarged swim platform and pop-up changing room; the addition of a chemical toilet and full canvas package converts the 190 LW into a small overnighter.
Light enough to be towed by a full-size car or light truck, the 190 LW is capable of providing big on-water fun in a relatively compact, versatile and cost-effective package.
Who should buy it: Boaters who enjoy the open nature of a deck boat, but also want the performance and easy maneuverability of a smallish runabout will find the 190 LW provides a blend of both.
Vital Stats * Length: 19’2″ * Beam: 8’1″ (97″) * Dry Weight (hull only): 1,918 lb. * Seating/Weight Capacity: 10/2,067 lb. * Fuel Capacity: 50 gal. * Max HP: 150 * MSRP: (test boat w/ Mercury 150XL Verado-L4): $32,520 * NMMA certified: Yes
Power Picks
Mercury 135XL OptiMax $31,964
Mercury 150XL OptiMax $31,974
Mercury 150XL Verado-L4 $32,520
Also Consider…
Ventura 190 L I/O
Length: 19’2″
Beam: 8’1″ (97″)
Max HP: 220
This is almost the same boat as the featured model, but with a stern-drive configuration and a bit more horsepower range.
Ventura 191 L4S
Length: 19’2″
Beam: 8’1″ (97″)
Max HP: 150
For those families who like to fish, this model has casting chairs, livewell, trolling motor receptacle and fish/depth finder.
- Test Drive
- Test Engine: Mercury 150XL Verado-L4
- Test Prop: 14.5 x 17 stainless steel
- Test Load: 350 lb.
- Top Speed: 45.7 mph @ 6,300 rpm
- Time to Plane: 3.1 sec.
- Time to 30 mph: 6.2 sec.
- Minimum Planing Speed: 18 mph @ 3,200 rpm
