Firewall the throttle, pass 40 mph, then crank the wheel hard over on Chaparral’s 247 SSX. You won’t be disappointed. Rather than the prop losing its grip or the hull bucking unpredictably, the 247 SSX stays glued to the water, fast, stable and utterly predictable.
Credit Chaparral’s Extended V-Plane hull. Its sharp bow, extended running surface and tight aft corners allow the craft to power through turns with exceptional results. The design also enhances low-speed stability, provides a soft and dry ride, and improves fuel economy. With a 300 hp Volvo Penta Duoprop sterndrive under the sun pad, we powered the 247 SSX onto plane in 5.1 seconds, achieved 30 mph in 8 seconds, and topped out at 46 mph. The best cruising fuel economy we noted occurred with the engine turning 4,000 rpm, the boat making about 28 mph, and a net fuel economy of nearly 3 mpg. Fast, efficient and fun.
Passengers will appreciate the inviting open-concept cockpit layout. At the bow, minimum depth is a generous 2 feet 8 inches, offering a pronounced feeling of security. The anchor locker opens on friction hinges, has hangers for a Danforth-style anchor, and incorporates a four-step boarding ladder. Seat cushions flip open lengthwise on articulating hinges for easy stowage access. Aft, twin captain’s chairs sit behind the helm and port console. Optional twin 12-inch Simrad multifunction displays graced our tester’s dash, shaded by an attractive brow. To port, a generous-size head compartment includes a standard port-a-potty, a large floor drain, and an opening port for ventilation. The in-floor ski locker is ready to handle water toys, including wakeboards.
It’s the remainder of the seating, however, that shines brightest. Behind the captain’s perch, a 2-foot-8-inch bench covers a lift-out 25-quart cooler. Opposite, a 4-foot-8-inch-by-3-foot-9-inch L-shaped bench accommodates additional passengers in comfort. Pivot the backrest forward to create a massive recliner out of the nearly 7-foot-wide, 3-foot-deep sun pad. Raise the starboard quarter to reveal a convenient transom walk-through.
High Points
* Two-foot-deep swim platform is ideal for coving, with an oversize stainless-steel grab handle, four-step telescopic ladder, and remote for the Polk audio system.
* Tired of hunting for seat-adjustment levers? Chaparral opts for oversize, easy-to-handle polished levers, relocated to the topside of the thigh bolsters.
* Optional electronic folding sport arch is a stylish mix of tubing and welded panels, and incorporates a unique, simple-to-deploy Bimini top.
Price: $95,305 (with test power)
How We Tested
Engine: Volvo-Penta V8-300-CE/DPS
Drive/Prop: Sterndrive/FH4 propset
Gear Ratio: 1.95:1
Fuel Load: 65 gal.
Crew Weight: 350 lb.
More Information
Chaparral Boats – Nashville, Georgia; 229-686-7481; chaparralboats.com
