RINKER CAPTIVA 228

The number-one reason most people buy deckboats is the sheer utility of having a boat that performs like a runabout but also has enough room to host a boat load of guests. But Rinker’s new 228 DB with the “R”package might be one that people buy because of its looks.

By employing a sheerline that starts low in the bow, rises toward the middle, then swoops dramatically toward the stern, along with other enhancements like the wrap-around windshield, you’ll be thinking sportboat, not family runabout.

People who know the Rinker brand will figure the 228 DB won’t cost them their first born’s college education and will perform well. They will be right on both counts.

Our test boat is powered by Volvo Penta’s 300 hp 5.7 Gi DP, and it puts the Rinker on plane in just 3.2 seconds with just a little bowrise that doesn’t quite obscure the horizon. It accelerates linearly to 30 mph in 7.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 50.3 miles per hour, which is pretty good since we have the added wind resistance of the optional wakeboard tower to overcome.

If you like to hear your engine roar, this is the boat for you since there isn’t much in the way of acoustical engine insulation, which causes louder-thannormal readings from the decibel meter. This mainly occurs on the lower rpm range and isn’t as noticeable as you go faster.

Where this boat shines is passenger capacity. Not only can you legally carry 10 passengers on this boat, but they will all find comfortable seating with a U-lounge in the bow and Llounge in the stern. The captain and co-driver get sporty wrap-around bucket seats that feature cutout backs for comfort on hot summer days and have flip-up bolsters. For a sub-23- footer, the 228 Deck Boat has a roomy head compartment with an optional Versa-Teak deck, to match the swim platform option.