What we think: Our performance numbers speak to speed, but the feel of the 205 Sport is most important to us. Nimble and crisp in turns, it’s quick to respond to the throttle and, because we tested it with a multi-port fuel-injected engine, relatively easy on gas, too.
Sea Ray builds a solid hull, and it showed when we plowed up strong wakes and switched back over them. Hardware is firmly in place, too, as evidenced by the rattle-free ride.
At rest, we found that the jump-seat cockpit version with the back-to-back passenger seats offered the most open and comfortable cockpit. With the back-to-back seats down, they provide a long sunning lounge, and by leaning on the coaming bolster, three or four can sit comfortably. For an additional sunning area, the jump seats can be raised to fill in around the engine sun pad, giving beam-to-beam relaxation.
Inside, the deck molds are shaped to build flowing and comfortable contours into the boat. In the bow, arms rest lightly on the curved gunwales. Throughout, cup holders keep drinks secure and at hand.
The helm station’s simple but functional design includes full instrumentation. Between the tilt wheel and the sliding, swiveling bucket helm seat (with pull-up bolster), we found plenty of adaptability for driver size. We like the stereo positioned in the passenger glove box — it gives your first mate some buttons to push, too.
The platform is integrated, not bolted on. We prefer that for looks and durability. At roughly 18 inches wide, it provides a great spot to dangle your feet in cool, soothing waters — once you’re done with crisp, nimble turns.
Who should buy it: The 205 Sport makes an ideal runabout because of its popular size and its recreational water-sports capability. It weighs in with Sea Ray quality but at a price more comfortable for family budgets.
Vital Stats * Length: 21′ * Beam: 8′ * Dry Weight: 3,265 lb. * Seating/Weight Capacity: 8/1,120 lb. * Fuel Capacity: 37 gal. * Max HP: 260 * MSRP: (w/ MerCruiser 4.3L MPI 220 hp Alpha): $34,909 * NMMA certified: Yes
Power Picks
* MerCruiser 5.0L MPI 260 hp Alpha $35,021
* MerCruiser 5.0L 220 hp Alpha $31,683
Also Consider…
Sea Ray 210 Select** **
Length: 21′
Beam: 8’6″
Max HP: 300
At first glance a 21-footer is a 21-footer, but this one sports a bigger beam adding cockpit space and more bling, enhancing luxury, style and flash.
Sea Ray 195 Sport
Length: 20’2″
Beam : 7’6″
Max HP: 260
A compact version of the 205, this one adds real estate with a transom platform. Seating options are numerous, and best power would be a 4.3L 220 hp engine.
- Test Drive
- Test Engine: MerCruiser 4.3L MPI 220 hp Alpha
- Test Prop: Vengeance 19″
- Test Load: People (230 lb.); Fuel (25 gal.)
- Top Speed: 46.1 MPH @ 5,000 RPM
- Time to Plane: 3.4 sec.
- Time to 30 mph: 8.1 sec.
- Minimum Planing Speed: 20 MPH @ 2,500 RPM
