Thanks to the use of advanced design and construction techniques, CAD and new materials, the new Pursuit S268 Sport, which replaces the C 260, makes the argument that bigger is better. It boasts a bigger cockpit, bigger helm, 3 inches of additional cockpit width, and 7 more inches of internal volume (living space) fore and aft. Also, Pursuit added 18 more inches of deck extension on each side of the outboards, letting you board from a dock more securely. Changing a prop is much easier too.
Bow seating with an optional pivoting backrests and insulated storage underneath provides places to lounge facing forward. Our test boat came fitted with a powder-coated console frame and standard molded hardtop with optional safety-glass windows.
The S268 Sport’s roll moment in a beam sea is relatively short and smooth. Anglers will particularly appreciate that it rolls quietly, with hardly any wave-slapping noise. Also, fish boxes have a diaphragm pump rather than a macerator for fewer clogs. Speaking of fishing, Yamaha’s new Helm Master EX system makes a fishing day more productive, easier and less tiring.
Pursuit ensures unsurpassed strength from its proprietary resin-infusion system for the fiberglass stringer system, plus a molded-in knee at the transom spreads torque and thrust from the engines throughout the length of the boat. In addition, as earthlings, we appreciate that the construction processes used vastly diminishes the volatile organic compounds (pollution) that fiberglass boatbuilding has long contributed to substantially. At the same time, it makes for a more consistent, higher-quality structural system by eliminating air pockets and thick spots.
The in-console head provides welcome amenities, such as a porcelain toilet, freshwater sink and acceptable headroom.
We like that advanced designs and construction combine with a lower power rating to make the Pursuit more economical to run, though without any significant giveaway in top-end speed to the competition. And we appreciate a vessel with zero performance idiosyncrasies; it keeps the captain and crew safer in turns and sudden changes in speed. When it comes to boats, nothing beats predictable.
High Points
- Most in-sole boxes and scuppers drain into a centerline bilge tunnel so that water exits through the transom, which helps keep things clean and dry belowdecks.
- Foldaway transom seat raises the backrest, providing more comfortable support for passengers while underway.
- Extended platforms outboard of the engines, when combined with a handrail, allow for safer, easier boarding and engine service.
Specs
LOA: 27′4″
Beam: 8′9″
Draft (max): 2′10″
Dry Weight: 6,770 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity: Yacht Certified
Fuel Capacity: 139 gal.
Price: $163,655 (base); $196,171 (as tested)
How We Tested
Engines: Twin 200 hp Yamaha
Drive/Props: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series II 141/4″ x 18″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.86:1
Fuel Load: 139 gal.
Crew Weight: 650 lb.
More Information
Pursuit Boats – Fort Pierce, Florida; 772-465-6006; pursuitboats.com
