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2021 Formula 310 Bowrider

The 310 Bowrider is a dayboat full of versatility and style.

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).

Formula 310 Bowrider running wide open
The 310 Bowrider runs quiet and smooth. Tom King

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.

Formula 310 Bowrider bow seating
Bow lounges have backrests against the consoles. Courtesy Formula Boats

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.

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Formula 310 Bowrider helm
A Raymarine Axiom Pro 9 S chart plotter dominates the dash. Courtesy Formula Boats

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.

Formula 310 Bowrider cockpit amenities
The 310 Bowrider is equipped with two cockpit tables, and a wet bar to port. Courtesy Formula Boats

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.
Formula 310 Bowrider performance data chart
Formula 310 Bowrider Certified Test Results Boating Magazine

Specs

LOA: 31′0″

Beam: 9′6″

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Draft: 3′1″

Dry Weight: 9.875 lb.

Seat/Weight Capacity: Yacht Certified

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Fuel Capacity: 130 gal.

Price: $456,840

How We Tested

Engines: Twin Ilmor 6.2-liter 430 hp

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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

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