Overview

The SDX 250 Outboard incorporates Sea Ray’s new design language, including a defined “jawline,” S sheerline, updated logo and a curved windshield. Though no longer blunt, like a traditional deck boat, the bow still offers wraparound seating for a crowd. Add the Comfort Bundle ($2,825, which includes two teak tables and a filler cushion), and the bow becomes a playpen. Get the bow ladder ($385) for beach excursions. The Water System Bundle ($2,850) includes a bow washdown and a transom shower.

Interior and Accessories

A smaller console to port creates storage and gives the co-pilot control of the Fusion stereo. The starboard console features a corner-opening door and a day berth that’s perfect for kids to rest and recharge. There’s a sink fed by a ­12-gallon tank and a pump-out head ­option ($1,540).

At the helm, our test boat sported dual Simrad 9-inch NSX chart plotters ($4,540). For service, the entire dash hinges open. The skipper sits in a double-wide seat with a convertible backrest like the one to port, so when the key is off, these become aft-facing lounge chair. A big ski locker between the helm seats swallows boards, skis and smaller tubes.

Seating encircles the ­cockpit. Underfoot, faux-teak SeaDek nonskid comes in the Essentials Bundle ($3,840). The star feature of the deck layout is the stern lounge with its two flip-flop backrests. Underneath is a storage compartment large enough to hold a deflated super tube. Order the compressor ($280) to pump it up.

Engine

The SDX 250’s standard ­engine is the Mercury Verado 250 V-8. I recommend the 300 hp Verado upgrade ($3,090, black; $5,310, white) because this boat is meant to carry a crowd. With it, we topped 48 mph. Standard Active Trim optimizes the running angle. The SDX 250’s 21 degrees of transom deadrise will help when running on choppy water. The optional Watersports Tower ($11,035) can be upgraded with tilting board racks and can speakers.

The SDX 250 comes in three flavors. The outboard will prove popular in coastal areas, while the sterndrive model will be favored by those who want a larger swim platform. The third is an SDX 250 Surf model with a forward-facing Bravo Four drive and the NextWave system, which allows controlling the surfing wave from the Simrad screen.

Read Next: Sea Ray SLX 280 Outboard

How We Tested

• Engine: Mercury 300 hp Verado V-8
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Revolution 4 14.6″ x 17″ 4-blade -stainless steel 
• Gear Ratio: 1.85:1 Fuel Load: 55 gal. Water on Board: 0 gal. Crew Weight: 380 lb.

High Points

• The SDX 250 is incredibly maneuverable, easily making hard 180-degree turns in a narrow channel during our test.
• The large sunshade on the watersports tower casts a long, wide swath of UV protection. 
• Available with three power choices: ­outboard, sterndrive, and ­forward-facing sterndrive for watersports. 

Low Points

• We’d have thought this robust hull would be rated for more than 300 hp. 
• The large storage compartment under the rear sun lounger shares undivided space with the batteries and fuel tank.

Toughest Competition

The Hurricane 2600 weighs 1,720 pounds less, can take up to a 400 hp outboard and is yacht-certified. The base price is $130,079 with a Mercury Verado 300.  

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2025 Sea Ray SDX 250 OB appeared first on Boating Mag.

Here’s a baker’s dozen of boats we think rate “must-see” status at the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. From fishing boats to luxury boats to deck boats, these craft all share one thing in common: they possess some new, different or interesting design, construction or layout characteristics that we think boat buyers who consider themselves true fans of powerboats will be interested in learning about.

We’ve included the location of each of these must-see boats at either the Bahia Mar Marina or the Broward County Convention Center. Download the FLIBS app (available on both Google Play and the Apple Store). Map your route, hit the show and get your boat geek on!

Read Next: Must-See Marine Electronics at the 2024 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show

Axopar 29 CCX

What: Termed a “hybrid center console” it is said to meld full on fishing with a refined experience underway.

Why: Modular cockpit offers four different layouts.

Where: Bahia Mar F/G Dock 49 (Nautical Ventures Dock)

Beneteau Antares 9

What: Termed, “The Ultimate Weekender,” this 30 footer offers two private cabins, a full galley and a head with shower.

Why: Truly private stateroom with solid bulkhead not a curtain.

Where: Bahia Mar, G/H Dock 29

Monterey Elite 30 OB

What: Honored as a Boating Magazine Boat of the Year category winner: Best Small Dayboat.

Why: The center helm is a true wow!

Where: Convention Center 2027

Phenom 43 Center Console

What: A no-holds barred CC said to offer performance, luxury and fishability. Fathom E-Power battery system extends the adventure without the need for a generator’s noise and fumes.

Why: The trademarked Phenom NextStep 3-Piece Hull Design is innovative and unique.

Where: Convention Center 2084

Sea Pro 225 FLX Sandbar

What: A unique take that offers versatility with an emphasis on those boaters who enjoy hitting the beach or sandbar.

Why: The special table that installs at water level for entertainment while wading and swimming.

Where: Convention Center 2030

Grady-White Freedom 345 DC

What: Grady-White will debut a new Freedom 345 dual console.

Why: This wide-beamed dual console sets high bars for luxury, fishability and quality.

Where: Convention Center 2025

Sōlace 28 HCS

What: This new bay boat is unique from design, to build to layout.

Why: The excellent execution of the convertible transom which transforms from seating to casting platform while concealing two 50-qt coolers.

Where: Convention Center 2021

Sailfish 232 Center Console

What: A category winner for Boating Magazine Boat of the Year 2024; honored as: Best Small Fishing Boat.

Why: Excellent mix of construction and standards for its price.

Where: Convention Center 2081

Regal 38 SAV

What: This boat cruises, fishes and entertains while displaying little compromise regardless of the activities you pursue on the water.

Why: Multi-position captain’s seats. Ever see a chair become a table? See this boat!

Where: Bahia Mar, H-Dock

Robalo R257

What: They say this boat is a leap forward in boat design.

Why: Check out that hardtop!

Where: Convention Center, 2061

Sea Ray SDX 230 Outboard

What: The latest outboard-powered deckboat from Sea Ray, the year 2025 model SDX 230. (*SDX250 shown in picture)

Why: Will it be luxurious, functional, or both?

Where: Bahia Mar, Dock G/H 45

Boston Whaler 330 Vantage

What: They say that this versatile model is the final piece in the evolution of Boston Whaler’s  dual-console lineup.

Why: Boston Whaler always showcases some cool and new features with new models.

Where: Bahia Mar, Dock C 300

NAVAN S30

What: The new NAVAN open-air center console.

Why: Unique T-Step Hulls.

Where: Bahia Mar, GH Dock

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The Sea Ray SPX 190 offers a winning combination of performance and comfort, perfect for both relaxation and water sports. Choose from a standard 115-horsepower Mercury outboard or upgrade to a 150-horsepower engine for an extra thrill. A stern drive option with a 4.5-liter 200-horsepower Mercruiser Alpha is also available.

The walkthrough transom allows for easy movement around the boat, while a concealed four-step swim ladder makes re-entry a breeze. Standard features include a ski pylon and a dedicated locker for storing water sports gear.

The well-appointed cockpit features a beautiful L-shaped lounge and a versatile port-side companion seat that adjusts for forward or aft-facing seating. The bow boasts a deep lounge with speakers, grab rails, and cup holders for ultimate relaxation. An unexpected bonus for a 19-foot boat is the well-finished anchor locker at the very bow.

The helm is equipped with a swiveling captain’s seat, a Simrad digital MFD display with navigation and engine data, and a well-organized switch panel. Stay entertained with the Fusion stereo system and keep your devices charged with the multiple USB ports.

Sea Ray’s design language shines through with the SPX 190’s sleek lines, rounded bow, and curved windshield. The luxurious upholstery with beautiful stitching complements the overall aesthetic.

Optional extras include a water sports tower for wakeboarding, a Bimini top for shade, and snap-in flooring for easy cleaning. The adaptable bow lounge can be configured as separate seating areas or transformed into a complete sun lounge.

The Sea Ray SPX 190 is a versatile option for a variety of boating needs. Learn more and build yours here.

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The SDX 270 Surf has been designed from the keel up to put out a killer wake surf wave that the entire family will enjoy. The boat comes as a regular sterndrive or you can get the surf package with a Mercury Bravo Four S forward-facing drive. At the helm, you’ll find dual 9-inch Simrad digital displays, analog switches, and a comfortable bolster, all tucked behind a seamless curved windshield that gives you a great sightline. 

This 27-footer has plenty of space for everyone to join, tons of storage under the seats, convertible seating in the wrap-around lounge area, and a spacious head. Wireless charging throughout and Fusion audio keeps everyone entertained. At the transom, there is a huge sunpad area that’s great for lounging. When you’re done riding, it’s easy to get back on the boat with the drop-down ladder or the submersible swim step. 

The watersports tower folds easily in case you need to bring it into the garage or under a low bridge, has pivoting clamping board racks to easily take the boards out, and features an oversized bimini to keep you in the shade.

Integrated software makes it super easy to customize your experience. Choose between surf, wakeboard, or ski/tube settings, and then dial-in the wave to your liking. This boat is a ton of fun. You can take it anywhere and bring everyone along with you. If you’re looking for a boat that’s versatile and has watersports capabilities, the Sea Ray SDX 270 Surf is one you have to look at.

Learn more at: Sea Ray SDX 270 and SDX 270 Surf

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Scout Boats

Scout Boats will be showing a fleet of boats including the new 357 LXF and 281 X Signature Edition. Also, they will be revealing more about the in-development 67 LX series (rendering shown). Lots to see and learn about at: Bahia Mar Dock C/D 45.

Aviara AV28

Aviara’s AV 28 is one unique dayboat. It is available in three versions, one with outboard power, one with conventional sterndrive power and one with a forward-facing sterndrive that allows this great-looking, high-performing dayboat to deliver its owners a wakesurfing experience, too. Bahia Mar F/G Dock.

Blackfin 400 CC

Wow! Our Tech Team was impressed by this Queen of the Blackfin fleet. It sports multiple outboard power, all the fishing features contemporary anglers demand, plus high-performance and a confidence-inspiring ride. See it at: Convention Center 2075.

Formula 457 Center Consoles

Formula is debuting the 457 Center Console Sport and the 457 Center Console Fish at FLIBS 2023! Hot off the success of its 357 CC Sport and Fish version CC’s, the renown boatbuilder breaks out with these bigger sisters. See them! Bahia Mar Yachting Center, slips H818-H824.

Grady-White

Man, get yourself to the convention center if you are a fan of this storied, North Carolina boatbuilder. Grady-White will be debuting a brand new boat , so top-secret that even we could not get advance intel. Don’t miss it! Convention Center 2025.

Wellcraft 435

Looking for speed, style and seakeeping? Versatility and luxury combine aboard this newest Wellcraft. Its powered by over 1,000 horsepower. Check out the outboard-powered Wellcraft’s 435 at: Slip H821 in the North Basin of Bahia Mar.

Axopar 45 ST (Sun Top)

This is the boatbuilder responsible for the rise of the “adventure” or “ commuter” class of boats. Increasingly popular, these stepped-hull, straight-stemmed vessels offer great versatility and also quality, but without lots of frills. Axopar’s newest is the 45 ST Sun Top. See it: Bahia Mar F/G dock, booth 9. (Nautical Ventures)

Four Winns TH36

Is it the year of the cat? This 36 foot Four Winns dayboat rides twin hulls for ride comfort, efficiency and a completely different use of deck space, compared to monohull dayboats. See it at: Slip B214 in the South Basin of Bahia Mar.

Cruisers Yachts

Celebrating 70 years of boatbuilding, Cruisers Yachts will have a large fleet on display. So, why not see a large boat! It shows the open bow layout, the transforming aft cockpit and more. The 50 GLS evinces style and substance and innovation and you, “must-see” it at: Bahia Mar Dock GH, Slip 3.

Sea Ray SLX Outboard Series

Here’s twin engine bowriders/ dayboats up to 40 feet. They are built to the highest quality and with every feature oozing thoughtful detail. Luxury, a 55-mph top-speeds, touchscreen helm displays…. these Sea Rays are certainly a, “must-see.” Do just that at: Bahia Mar GH Dock.

Intrepid 51 Panacea

Sport Yachts are an elite segment of recreational boats. One of the most unique sport yachts must be the new Intrepid 51 Panacea. Naturally it runs on Intrepid’s vaunted transverse step hull form, delivering ride, handling and performance that is unrivaled. Learn more! See it at: Bahia Mar (on land and in water) at G Dock.

Tiara 48 LE

The 48 LE is a great blend of entertaining comforts and adventure amenities. The rotating lounge module has power actuation allowing the seat to be positioned towards the terrace, aft, and anywhere in between. See more of the Tiara 48 LE! Bahia Mar C/D Dock.

Fountain 39 DX

Dual consoles are one hot boat segment, offering offshore hull, build and ride with the layout and comfort of a bowrider. Two consoles, three outboards, one great boat: Fountain’s 39 DX! See Fountain Powerboats in the Convention Center at Booth 2017!

Chaparral 280 OSX

Outboard dayboats are among the most popular on the water. Want to see a top-notch example? See the Chaparral 280 OSX in the Convention Center at booth 2072.

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Unleash the Thrills with Sea Ray’s SLX 280 Outboard, redesigned to be a super social day boat.

It’s not often you see a day boat with twin outboard engines, and Sea Ray does a fantastic job maximizing the swim platform around them on the SLX 280 Outboard. With an impressive top speed exceeding 55 mph and swift throttle response, this boat offers an exhilarating driving experience.

The twin Simrad touchscreen displays make navigating, keeping track of your ship systems, and everything else easy with just your finger touch. It features a push button start, active trim that adjusts the trim on the engines, and joystick control.

The SLX 280 is not only ideal for socializing and enjoying the water but also stands out as a highly responsive performance vessel. Learn more about the Sea Ray SLX 280 Outboard here.

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Overview

I’ve been in many different versions of Sea Ray’s SLX over the years, but I can’t say that any of them were more fun to drive than the new SLX 280 Outboard. With the standard twin 250 hp Mercury ­Verado outboards on the transom, the boat jumped onto plane in 3.9 seconds and hit 30 mph in 7.6 seconds en route to a 55.6 mph top-end speed. Those are impressive numbers for a 28-foot family runabout. In turns at speed, the boat handled like a sports car with great midrange acceleration. With the Active Trim engaged, the boat automatically adjusted to our speed and the conditions. I also took the boat outside the inlet and put it through its paces in some well-spaced 3-foot swells. The boat performed well in following, quartering and head seas, and no one hanging out in the main cockpit got wet or felt uncomfortable. We also experienced no shuttering, rattling or slamming hatches because the boat felt solid and secure during our runs.

Engine

Handling in close quarters was absolutely no problem thanks to the standard joystick control. Easing in and out of our slip took no effort. When we had to wait a few times to transit under a bridge, I pressed the Skyhook Digital Anchor button to lock our positioning in place. If you like to dock old-school by working the throttles, the DTS steering is super-seemless and responsive, so there’s not as much lag time when switching between forward, neutral and reverse. Overall, the outboard package makes the SLX 280 a truly dynamic boat. There’s just something about twins on the transom that makes for a magical ride.

Interior and Accessories

When you combine the boat’s smooth performance with all of the family-friendly seating and storage, you get a solid win. Sea Ray’s design team expanded the social space in the main cockpit with plush seating along both gunwales. The doublewide captain’s seat can rotate to face fully aft for joining the fun while the boat is at rest, as can the high-backed chair in front of the port head console. Doing this creates an amazing conversation pit for a raft-up or while chilling on anchor. The full windshield and wind stop helped to keep wind noises to a minimum so we could easily chat while underway. The quiet Verados also help keep the conversation flowing and allow you to hear your tunes without cranking the volume to 11. Those who want to get a tan can stretch out on the huge transom sun pad. Oh yeah, bring all the toys and gear you want for a day on the water—odds are good that every item can fit in the massive stowage space under the sun pad, a spot normally reserved for a sterndrive engine on similar boats. With outboards, you gain in interior stowage but lose the giant extended swim platform off the transom found on most high-end sterndrive boats. Sea Ray did a good job in creating space to walk around the outboards and access the water via the swim steps to each side of the engines. The starboard-side swim ladder is also angled to keep swimmers away from the propeller while reboarding. The flip-up boarding step on the starboard side is an added bonus because it makes it easy to board or disembark when docked side-to. It’s a feature that makes the boat even more family-friendly.

The entertainment center behind the helm adds to the sociability, as does the optional pullout refrigerator drawer built into the fiberglass helm bench-seat base. It should be noted that a drawer is favorable to a traditional fridge with a vertical door because stuff won’t fall onto the deck when you open it. The Fusion stereo system pumps your favorite tunes through the boat with quality sound.

The head in the port console makes a great changing room. Add the pump-out head system to make the SLX 280 Outboard even more family-friendly. The whole cockpit is covered by the electrically actuated Power Tower, which lowers at the push of a button for bridges and trailering. An extended sunshade rolls out to cover the sun pad area too.

No bowrider would be complete without space to sit in the bow, and Sea Ray achieves this nicely with forward-facing backrests and flip-up armrests on the consoles, and strategically placed grab rails for safety. The starboard-side underseat hatch opens up to reveal a cool dedicated stowage spot for the bow and main cockpit tables. Each table is shaped to fit perfectly in place in the bow or main cockpit. Our test boat had the optional windlass system that made dropping the hook a ­no-brainer. The optional freshwater washdown option on the bow helps clean any muck or gunk that comes up on the anchor and rode after some time on the hook. A sturdy chain stop keeps the anchor securely in place when not in use.

Other builders make large outboard-­powered dayboats, but most are smaller and offer only single-engine power choices. ­Chaparral’s 280 OSX is a comparable-size runabout that starts at $272,786 with twin 250 Yamaha outboards and digital steering. Chris-Craft builds an outboard version of its 28 Launch GT that starts at $281,570 with a single 350 Mercury Verado, but it does not have an option for twin engines.

It’s hard to argue with a runabout’s versatility no matter the power choice. With all of the standards and luxury options, the Sea Ray SLX 280 Outboard adds up to a winning combination of performance, luxury and family fun.

How We Tested

• Engines: Twin 250 hp Mercury Verados
• Drive/Props: Outboard/15 ¹/₄” x 19″ Enertia 3-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.85:1 Fuel Load: 108 gal. Water on Board: 200 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.

High Points 

• Moving the power source to the transom allows for a massive amount of storage space, particularly under the sun pad covering what would be the sterndrive engine box.
• Flip-up boarding step in the cockpit to starboard makes for easy side-to boarding and unloading at the dock.
• Doublewide helm seat and opposing co-captain’s seat at the port console both rotate aft to create an awesome conversation pit.

Low Points

• Outboard power always restricts water access from the swim platform area, though Sea Ray does a good job with the space.
• The 9-foot beam makes the boat subject to trailering restrictions in many states.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2023 Sea Ray SLX 280 Outboard appeared first on Boating Mag.

The Sea Ray SLX 260 Surf is a luxury family bowrider you can surf behind. It’s a forward-facing drive that really changes the dynamic of your family bowrider. Dual Simrad screens allow you to manage the surf, wakeboard, ski and tubing settings to accommodate both the new and experienced rider.

At the transom, the expanded sunpad presents a relaxing place to take in the sights along the water’s edge. The swim platform with a manual submersible step provides easy access to the water and facilitates reboarding after swimming or enjoying watersports. Convenient storage has been incorporated throughout the boat, including an integrated cooler or dry storage spot under the transom sunpad and a transom locker for stowing gear, floating water mats and inflatables.

The SLX 260 Surf has an amazing setup for a family day on the water to cruise and hang out on your local lake. Learn more about the Sea Ray SLX 260 Surf here.

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Overview

Several years in, it’s safe to say that wakesurfing is one of the most engaging watersports that people enjoy on the water. The thing is, most people want to enjoy it as part of their boating experience, not as their only experience, so they’re not looking for a dedicated surfboat. Boat companies looking to accommodate that crowd have sought to build recreational boats propelled by jets or forward-facing drives to make them safe to surf behind. The catch-22, as we have learned, is that many “surfable” runabouts do not produce a wave strong enough for a weekend warrior to surf easily. Sea Ray’s new SLX 260 Surf, however, delivers on that promise. During testing, expert rider Cody Prizer discovered that the SLX 260 Surf ­produced a strong wave with a pocket that extends far behind the boat, so surfers of all ability levels can enjoy it.

Engine

How did Sea Ray achieve this in a traditional luxury bowrider? It starts with swapping out the Mercury Bravo Three for a forward-­facing Bravo Four S drive. Otherwise known as a tractor drive, the forward-facing contra-rotating propellers pull the boat through the water rather than pushing it like a regular sterndrive. This setup moves the props 26 inches forward of the transom under the boat, safely tucking them out of reach of any surfers or swimmers working around the swim ­platform. Sea Ray also incorporated an 1,800-pound ballast system completely under the deck rather than in stowage lockers, as you’ll see in some converted runabouts. Add in the customized Wakeworx surf tabs that help shape the wave on either the port or starboard side.

Interior and Accessories

The dual 9-inch Simrad multifunction displays at the helm feature an integrated watersports interface, allowing you to fill or empty the ballast tanks with one touch, easily control the surf tabs, and employ ­preset launch profiles for beginners to advanced ­riders. Not limited to surfing, the interface also features modes for wakeboarding, skiing and tubing. Sea Ray also uses C-Zone switching, which acts as the nerve center for all ship systems, so everything is right at your fingertips.  

The standard watersports tower provides a great tow point for surfing and wakeboarding, and easily accommodates the optional Fusion speakers and adjustable board racks. Electrically actuated, the tower can quickly lower for trailering or passing under low bridges.

If you’re reading this review, odds are you’re interested in not just the surf features but also all the amenities that make the SLX 260 Surf a luxury bowrider. You’ll find them everywhere, from the spacious and comfortable seating laid out from stem to stern to the seat cushions that lift on gas-assist struts to reveal finished stowage compartments. The standard Fusion stereo system pumps great sound for your tunes. The removable teak tables let you create conversation pits in the bow and stern. The SeaDek flooring on the cockpit sole and extended swim platform is super-comfortable underfoot. The changing room in the port console can be upgraded with a VacuFlush head ($2,446), and the optional electric windlass ($5,277 with the anchor bundle) makes anchoring at the local sandbar an effortless affair. The transom sun pad is a great spot for staging watersports or just catching some rays at anchor. There’s a built-in cooler under one of the sun-pad cushions and a Fusion stereo remote close at hand. The large stowage compartment to port can hold all your fenders and even some of your watersports gear.

The spacious swim platform features a manual flip-down swim step, making it super-easy to get in and out of the water, whether you’re finishing a surf session or taking a dip on a hot summer day. As noted, the forward drive keeps the props safely tucked under the hull, so there’s no risk of slicing a toe, even when the engine is shut off.

Traditional runabouts with forward-facing drives are becoming more common on the water, so you might also consider the Cobalt R6 Surf, another luxury bowrider, which starts at around $210,483 with a 350 hp Volvo Penta Forward Drive. Another option is the Regal LS6 Surf, which starts at $166,870 with the 350 hp Volvo Penta Forward Drive and many standard amenities.

As far as performance, the SLX 260 Surf reached a respectable 43.8 mph on test day, and its deep-V hull, which tapers to a 21-degree deadrise at the transom, helps the boat handle any rough lake chop with nary a slam nor a shudder. The boat exhibited crisp handling in hard-over turns at speed, and the contra-­rotating props kept the boat from slipping or blowing out. Because the props are farther forward, the boat’s pivot point is also farther forward than an outboard or sterndrive boat, which improves handling at slow and planing speeds. We climbed onto plane in under 5 seconds and hit 30 mph in under 10 seconds, both solid performance numbers.

All in all, the Sea Ray SLX 260 Surf is a boat designed to fulfill many missions on the water, from catching rays or waves and almost everything in between.

How We Tested

• Engine: 350 hp MerCruiser 6.2L ECT V-8
• Drive/Prop: Bravo Four S/24″ contra-rotating stainless-steel propset
• Gear Ratio: 2.20:1 Fuel Load: 75 gal. Water on Board: 0 gal. Crew Weight: 750 lb.

High Points

• Contra-rotating props and the farther-forward thrust point of the Bravo Four S help give the boat excellent low-speed handling in close quarters.
• Port console seat rotates fully aft to create a great spotter seat for watersports or keep an eye on swimmers when at anchor.
• Standard electric watersports tower easily raises and lowers with the push of a button.

Low Points

• Port console changing room/head lacks a window or vent to allow fresh air to circulate.
• Although the wave is impressive by recreational bowrider standards, it cannot match the professional-level quality of a dedicated surfboat.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2023 Sea Ray SLX 260 Surf appeared first on Boating Mag.

Sea Ray’s SLX 260 Surf serves boat buyers seeking wakesurfing thrills while delivering luxury and performance for those desiring the life aquatic. 

This boat’s story begins with its performance. Our test boat sported MerCruiser’s bruising 430 hp 8.2L Mag HO with digital throttle and shift (DTS). So powered, the SLX 260 Surf takes off and planes like a shot (6.4 seconds), hitting 30 mph in 11.4 seconds. And when its 1,800 pounds of ballast is filled and watersports applications activated on the intuitive Simrad touchscreen, it delivers an exciting surf wave the shape and size of which you can tailor to individual riders. Top speed is 43.5 mph carrying a crew of three, 68 gallons of fuel, and safety equipment. Our tester’s forward-facing, surf-friendly Bravo Four S drive turned a 19.5-inch-pitch stainless-steel propset.

We admired the electric watersports tower. It folds at the touch of a button, comes with a Bimini top, and features wakesurf tow points on each side. On the swim platform, a neat section transforms into a submerged step, great for watersports readying or just chilling in the cove. At the helm, a Simrad touchscreen enabled control of the Smart Tow system, a version of the proven watersports application written specifically for Sea Ray. With it, we filled the ballast tanks in about 90 seconds—and drained them lickety-split. Shifting the surf wave from right to left takes but an instant. There’s a load more features, the best of which might be that this system is easy for beginners to operate. 

As for luxury and convenience, this SLX 260 Surf possesses style in spades. The upholstery is multitextured and multicolored, and features attractive stitching. There’s a head compartment—try finding one of those aboard a dedicated watersports boat—with a commode and sink. There’s also a bow block off the door to keep wind blast out of the cockpit, and an acrylic door serves the aft walkway (another feature watersports boats often lack) to the swim platform. LED lighting provides function and ambience.  

In the market for a luxurious bowrider packed with amenities that also delivers a high level of wakesurfing excitement? Demo a Sea Ray SLX 260 Surf.

High Points

• Luxury bowrider lives up to the SLX tradition and provides wakesurfing thrills.
• Deep-V hull rode well crossing a choppy lake on a windy test day.
• Transom walkway and head compartment set it apart from most surfboats.
• Fusion Bluetooth Wi-Fi stereo has four 6.5-inch speakers.
• Quiet Ride construction adds to ambience and luxury.
• Sea Ray’s Smart Tow functionality works well. 

How We Tested

• Engine: 430 hp MerCruiser 8.2L Mag HO DTS
• Drive/Prop: Bravo Four S/19.5″ pitch stainless-steel propset
• Gear Ratio: 2.00:1 Fuel Load: 66 gal. Crew Weight: 500 lb.

Pricing and Specs

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