Some people like sporty, go-fast boats for watersports fun; others like the practicality of a cuddy cabin if they want to weekend or just spend a night on the hook. Stingray makes it all possible with its new 235CR.
With the patented Z-Plane hull, Stingray is consistently able to squeeze out more speed and performance with less horsepower than any other company. Powered by a small-block 5.0L Volvo Penta GXi V-8, we got on plane in 3.7 seconds, accelerated to 30 mph in 5.8 and reached an impressive top speed of 53.8 miles per hour. Handling at all speeds was excellent as was the cornering ability.
The stern and cockpit of the 235CR is pure sportboat, with an integrated swim platform with a starboard walk-through that allows for easy boarding without stepping on the upholstery. There's a stern jump seat that's perfect for suiting up for skiing or just hanging out. It flips up to reveal a drainable storage compartment/cooler that's perfect for wet items like jackets, ropes and towels. The sunpad is large and attractive with pleated upholstery that has color-coordinated accents.
Dillon Donnelly
Dillon Donnelly
Stingray not only specializes in giving you more performance, it also includes more standard features for the money. For the 235CR, Stingray includes what it calls the Convenience Package that is estimated to contain $3,683 worth of goodies, such as a transom shower, Bimini top, cockpit table with gooseneck pedestal and tilt steering to name just a few.
At the helm and co-pilot's position we sat on upscale Attwood bucket seats that have flip-up bolsters. A 140-watt MB Quart four-speaker MP3 stereo cranked the tunes with enthusiasm. Behind the captain's throne is a wet bar with a 25-quart cooler underneath that you can open without pulling it out.
The cabin features standards like a Porta Potti with a dockside pumpout and tight-fitting cushions that will sleep two plus a youngster in comfort. A butane stove is included in the package and should help it qualify for a second-home tax deduction.