Scout has always stood for continued innovation, high-quality builds and unique solutions to challenges great and small as they practice the art and execute the science of boatbuilding. Those attributes make this South Carolina boatbuilder stand out from any boat-show fleet. The new 215 XSF carries on that tradition, providing big-boat performance, clever thinking, excellent use of space, and a confident ride in a compact 21-foot package.
Our test 215 XSF was rigged conservatively with a 150 Yamaha; still, it produced a solid 45 mph top speed despite being no flyweight calm-water hull. Weight without engines is almost 2,900 pounds, ensuring a hull that can take a pounding. Its efficient hull design coupled with the fuel-sipping Yamaha gave a 3.9 mpg best cruise economy at 4,000 rpm and 29 mph. With a standard 82-gallon fuel tank, that translates to a huge 285-mile range, leaving 10 percent of the fuel in reserve. In the choppy Charleston harbor, the hull thumped satisfactorily through big tug and cruiser wakes, with no signs of flex or hard slamming — thanks in large part to the Scout’s 100 percent hand-laid fiberglass construction and reverse-shoe-box-fit deck-to-hull seam.
Inside, the XSF has a cockpit more than large enough for anglers and day cruisers alike; at nearly 22 square feet and 22 inches deep, it’s a safe haven for kids too. A 21-gallon aerated baitwell is ready for a full day of fishing, and a 13-gallon freshwater tank is standard as well. Rod storage is under the gunwales, with room for four sticks. A raw-water washdown system is also a standard item aboard this fishing machine.
Interior-wise, the Scout is anything but Spartan. Stainless-steel split bow rails provide a safety margin, along with the stainless-steel grab rail on the center console. A console-cushion set is standard, as are bow bolsters and a bow-cushion set. A powder-coated aluminum leaning post with backrest and 72-quart Igloo cooler offer seating at the helm. Three USB connection points and a 12-volt receptacle ensure connectivity and charging capability for cellphones. A Fusion Bluetooth sound system is standard, as is BayStar hydraulic steering. At the stern, port and starboard swim platforms with a stainless-steel boarding ladder make watersports access easy.
High Points
* Self-bailing cockpit gives peace of mind in difficult conditions or when moored for extended periods.
* Though the XSF is rated for a 250, Yamaha’s F150 provides plenty of power, with great fuel economy to boot.
* Clean rigging with top-shelf build quality and workmanship yields a boat that is rugged and looks great.
How We Tested
Engine: Yamaha F150 four-stroke 150 hp
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha Reliance SDS 14¼” x 17″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 2.00:1
Fuel Load: 60 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
Price
$46,495 (as tested)
Contact
Scout Boats Summerville, South Carolina; 843-821-0068; scoutboats.com
