As the Monty Python voiceover used to say, “And now for something completely different.” This can be said for Rinker’s Captiva 210 MTXC, the “Xover” that blends modern looks with functionality.
Unique Factor
Rinker’s forked bow, dubbed Matrix Technology (the MT in MTX), isn’t merely a styling feature; it’s a way to carry the beam farther forward to give owners more room than traditional boats. The MTX comes in two variations: the bowrider that is a cross between a bowrider and a deckboat; and the cuddy cabin model, which we tested. Thanks to the extra width up front, the cabin is far more spacious than you would typically find on a 21-footer with an 8-foot, 2-inch beam. A pair of filler cushions was sufficient to sleep two normal-sized people with a storage rail circling the berth. And to go with the mood lighting is a pair of cabin speakers for the sat-ready MB Quart MP3 stereo. The area above isn’t wasted either, with a flat enough deck to give sunbathers a great place to sizzle.
In the bowrider incarnation, the extra width is filled with a wide seating bench at the bow. Riders up front have the option to face rearward, whether sitting upright in the center or reclining on the sides. An optional filler cushion makes the bow a roomy sunning station.
Performance
Even the modest power of a 220 hp MerCruiser 4.3L MPI V-6 on the test boat was plenty to get us on plane in 3.4 seconds with very little bowrise. Sometimes the extra weight of a cabin helps planing, but on the MTXC, just call it good balance. Time to 30 mph was a very respectable 7.8 seconds, and we blazed up to 46.7 mph in a bit of chop on Lake Wawasee in Northern Indiana. Higher speeds with the V-8 packages are not as great as you would imagine. With the 260 hp 5.0L MPI the top speed is reported to be around 48 mph and with the largest available engine, the 300 hp MerCruiser MAG MPI 350, the increased power should take it to just a little more than 51 miles per hour. On the other hand, you probably won’t save any gas with the smaller engine either, since the 5.0L yields almost identical fuel economy numbers. All have excellent room for maintenance in the engine compartment.
Handling
There are few boats in this class with as much side-to-side stability as the Rinker 210 MTXC. Limiting the deadrise to a moderate 16 degrees at the stern was a good call, given its relatively narrow beam. The MTXC is solidly built, weighing 4,100 pounds, which also adds to its lateral stability and helps give it a more substantial ride. A unique feature of the hull is the twin outboard chines that are oversized and carried very far forward. This gives the boat flatter cornering and stays hooked up no matter how hard we turned the unusual sport wheel, which features a flat bottom section to allow those towing skiers to instantly know when they are lined up straight.
Best Uses
The cuddy version is perfect for those who like to overnight. With the filler cushions in place it’s a little more like sleeping in a tent than a luxurious cabin cruiser experience, but Rinker provides a comfortable snoozing surface. If you are spending the night “on the hook” it would be best to make a bridle for the anchor line so you can get an even pull, because the bow cleats are located far outboard on the bow’s forks. Without it, a wave of any substance will send you sloshing back and forth despite the boat’s lateral stability.
The MTXC is a good skiing platform with a centerline ski locker and standard ski tow. Its side stern seating gives you a stern bench and a co-pilot bucket seat that can swivel 180 degrees to become the spotter’s chair.
Preferred Setup
If skiing is high on the agenda, the MTXC can be dressed for success. Even though our test boat is the cuddy cabin version, the optional wakeboard tower would still look good and give you a higher tow point. With the MerCruiser package, owners can upgrade to the Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) that puts fly-by-wire technology in the palm of your hand. It also allows you to order the advanced Smart Tow system and choose one of five launch settings that control the rate of acceleration and then take the engine to the preferred rpm and keep it there. The Volvo Penta package also has an Electronic Throttle Control System, which is compatible with the slightly less-featured Perfect Pass cruise control system that keeps you dialed in at a desired speed. For more bite (and slightly less speed) Rinker offers a five-blade prop on both brands for skiing.
One head-scratcher is that the centerline stern walk-through isn’t standard. Without it, people have to stroll atop the beautifully upholstered sunpad to board (are those high heels? Noooo!). Recommended options are bow/cabin filler cushions and trim tabs, which aren’t always offered on smaller boats.