Beam: 9’6″
Draft: 1’8″ (outboards up)
Displacement (approx.): 7,500 lb. (dry with engines)
More Information: davisyachts.com
We Say: The Buddy Davis brand conjures up images of big Carolina-style battlewagons. The Davis 28 Center Console isn’t as large, but the broken shear and wide flare hint of the distinguished family connection.
The hull sides maintain full freeboard all the way aft while the running surface steps up about 2 feet forward of the transom, giving the boat the look of a finned automobile. With 24½ degrees of deadrise aft and a very sharp entry, the 28 can smooth out sizable seas. Divinycell foam coring combined with vacuum-infused, vinylester-resin fiberglass composite construction offers super strength.
Anglers will appreciate the vast aft cockpit, as well as a 40-gallon livewell abaft the helm seat and 50-gallon fish locker under the raised foredeck. The 36-inch-wide console panel offers room for flush-mounting a pair of 15-inch multifunction displays. A wraparound, clear-polycarbonate windshield extends from the console top to the underside of the hardtop. A leaning-post-style helm seat accommodates two adults and includes a backrest for extra comfort.
This mini battlewagon has comforts too: a step-down head inside the center-console and padded wraparound seating in the bow for an occasional cruise with family and friends.
Who’d Want One: Serious offshore anglers and wreck fishermen.
Another Choice: The Regulator 28 ($188,895 with twin Yamaha F300s) has a wide flare, but an unbroken shear.
Bottom Line: $187,000 (as tested); davisyachts.com
