Formula updated its largest bowrider model with a new optional hardtop that really enhances this wide-beam dayboat’s versatility and style. We tested the sterndrive version of the 310 Bowrider—it’s also offered with outboard power—on a brilliant day that highlighted the hardtop option. A $34,580 upgrade, the fiberglass hardtop covers the main cockpit area and incorporates a skylight, four speakers and lights. For additional coverage over the aft lounge area, consider the optional power SureShade retractable sunshade ($10,690).
Most owners will use this boat for lounging and entertaining, and the 310 Bowrider is set in that regard. The boat is equipped with two cockpit tables, and a wet bar to port with a covered sink and space below for a 30-quart cooler or a pull-out Isotherm refrigerator ($2,340). There’s also built-in cooler below one of the bow seat cushions. The head compartment to port has 4 feet, 6 inches of headroom and, if desired, can be equipped with a shower.
Bow lounges have backrests against the consoles, and the center cushions lift out to create forward-facing seats. The aft cockpit features a settee to starboard, and a sun pad with pivoting backrest over the engine hatch. The rear portion of the sun pad lifts to reveal a dunnage box accessible from the 30-inch-deep swim platform. The helm features a double-wide seat with a backrest that can be pivoted to face aft for socializing. A Raymarine Axiom Pro 9 S chart plotter dominates the dash, with space for a smaller engine-specific multifunction display to its right. The helm is equipped with a wireless charging pad and one of the many USB ports sprinkled around the boat.
Twin 430 hp Ilmor 6.2 MV8 Ocean Performance Series engines mated the to Ilmor One-Drive system powered our boat. This was our first experience with the Ilmor One-Touch Pro joystick system ($30,395), and it proved itself when docking in gusting crosswinds. The progressive throttle control ramps up thrust in a linear fashion, and the hydraulic-shifting drives are smooth and quiet. The 22-degree hull slices through chop and banks confidently in turns like, well, like a Formula.
High Points
- Standard VacuFlush head will save water over a standard flushing head.
- Hardtop’s soft center panel slides open manually.
- Fit and finish are impeccable, as is the attention to detail; for example, the robust 8.5-inch cleats.
Specs
LOA: 31′0″
Beam: 9′6″
Draft: 3′1″
Dry Weight: 9.875 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity: Yacht Certified
Fuel Capacity: 130 gal.
Price: $456,840
How We Tested
Engines: Twin Ilmor 6.2-liter 430 hp
Drive/Props: Ilmor One-Drive sterndrive/Mercury Bravo dual 28″ pitch stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 2.18:1
Fuel Load: 65 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
More Information
Formula Boats – Decatur, Indiana; 800-736-7685.; formulaboats.com