Chaparral’s 267 SSX proves the value of big-block sterndrives.

At a flick of the smooth electronic shift lever, the power levitates this nearly 5,000-pound rocket onto plane. Once there, a combination of the ­22-degree transom deadrise and 380 engine horsepower nested low on the stringers speeds us to nearly 50 mph. 

The balanced center of gravity of this large bowrider is enhanced by the massive engine block to give us excellent stability through sharp turns. It also cut smoothly through the chop and doubled-up waves we created on our windless test day. Control of the ponies is intuitive thanks to the responsive power steering and silky throttle lever.

And the frosting on the cake is the incredibly wide, deep swim platform with an aft-facing bench and what Chaparral calls the Infinity Power Step. Touch a button at the transom door, and an electric ram raises a large platform and rotates it into the water resting 12 inches deep—an ideal sandbar spot. When it is deployed, the engine ignition is deactivated for safety.

Chaparral’s new glass-cockpit-style design replaces circular gauges with a 12-inch Simrad NSS Evo 3 touchscreen with fully integrated engine data, plus navigation, sonar, and a seamless interface with Chaparral’s choice JL Audio system. The display is set in a carbon-­fiber panel for a techie touch, and the leather-covered, stainless-steel spoke wheel adds to the performance appeal.

Open the passenger console door like a secret passageway, and step down into the fully finished head compartment. A shower head below complements another at the transom.

Other conveniences in the ­Chaparral included five inductive chargers, 14 stainless-steel cup holders, and highly polished grab rails at the bow and along the coamings where they are handiest for boaters and guests.

The aft seatback is divided. If you pull the steel bar aft, the seatback divides, half lying even with the aft end of the bench, the other half forming an inclined pillow adding still another element of luxury and fun to the 267 SSX.

High Points

• Silicone-based vinyl is extremely resistant to mildew and stains.
• There are five inductive phone chargers on board.
• Wind dam at the windshield protects the cockpit from uncomfortable weather.

How We Tested

• Engine: MerCruiser 8.2L 380 hp
• Drive/Prop: Sterndrive/Bravo 3 26-pitch stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 2.00:1 Fuel Load: 30 gal. Water on Board: 0 gal. Crew Weight: 700 lb.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2024 Chaparral 267 SSX appeared first on Boating Mag.

Chaparral has put together an outstanding package. The cockpit was designed with comfort and style in mind. This boat is mildew resistant with silicone upholstery, triple stitching and a diamond finish. The helm station features a leather wrapped wheel and a 12” display on the dashboard. It not only shows engine information, but also navigation, sonar, audio controls and optional backup camera and JL Audio system complete with tower speakers.

The passenger console opens to reveal a head compartment with a china flushing toilet, stainless steel sink, and pull out shower head. One significant upgrade in this boat is the deeper bow. Here you’ll find 60” safety rails on both sides, lumbar support in the seat backs and fold down arm rests. The seats lift to reveal enormous dry storage units, while the center seat cushion lifts to unveil a cooler. Another advantage is the Power Arch, this lowers the tower from 8’5” to 6’1” with the touch of a button.

 The Chaparral 267 SSX has a huge swim platform with Infinity Power Step that unfolds the platform and drops it down to a 12” deep seat with ease. It includes “L” shaped lounges and a seat back that split apart to create an enormous sun pad that fits three to four people. Access to the engine and pumps has never been easier and makes servicing a breeze. Choose to upgrade and get SeaDek flooring and smartphone charging stations throughout the boat.

The post Presenting the 2024 Chaparral 267 SSX appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

In an era where engine-makers are expanding their offering of high-horsepower ­outboards and boatbuilders are gobbling them up for runabouts, Chaparral proves the value of ­big-block sterndrives with the refinement of its new 267 SSX. 

At a flick of the smooth electronic shift lever, the power levitated this nearly 5,000-pound rocket onto plane. Once there, a combination of the 22-degree transom deadrise and 380 hp engine nested low on the stringers sped us to nearly 50 mph. The balanced center of gravity of this large bowrider is enhanced by the massive engine block to give excellent stability through sharp turns. It also smoothly cut through the chop and doubled-up waves we created on our windless test day. Control of the ponies is intuitive thanks to the responsive power steering and silky throttle lever. 

While the engine took up that space belowdecks that outboards leave for massive storage and bilge access, we noted there was still ample room to service the engine, filters, pumps and other machinery. 

Interior and Accessories

And the frosting on the cake is the incredibly wide, deep swim platform with an aft-facing bench and what Chaparral calls the Infinity Power Step. Touch a button at the transom door and an electric ram raises what we’ll call a large park bench from the platform and rotates and lowers it into the water to serve as a step, or as a 12-inch-deep spot to sit and relax in the water. 

When the bench is deployed, the engine ignition deactivates for safety, and the drive trims up to prevent nicking toes. Once the transom is cleared and the step retrieved, tap another button to reactivate the ignition. 

While we thought the fun and convenient safety of the Infinity Power Step was a powerful draw to this boat, perhaps the most dramatic design changes were at the helm. Gone are circular analog gauges and the ­VesselView gauge. Instead, Chaparral’s new glass-cockpit-­style design boasted a 12-inch Simrad NSS Evo 3 touchscreen with fully integrated engine data, plus navigation, sonar, and a seamless interface with Chaparral’s choice JL ­Audio system. The display is set in a carbon-fiber panel for a techie touch, and the leather-covered, stainless-steel spoke wheel adds to the performance appeal. 

The passenger console is trimmed in carbon fiber as well and has a glove box. Both the skipper and the passenger get inductive phone-charger mounts that will take the largest of smartphones. Open the passenger console like a secret passageway and step down into the fully finished head compartment. Ours was equipped with a stainless-steel sink, pull-out shower and china flushing head. There’s another shower head at the transom so your guests can rinse off sand.

The water-supply inlet for the vessel is at the starboard bow, so there’s no excuse for dockhands to confuse it for the fuel port aft near the transom. 

A close competitor to the Chaparral is the Monterey Boats 278 SS (starting at $147,159 with a 350 hp MerCruiser Bravo Three; it has comparable pricing when optioned similarly). It reflects the strong reputation this company based in Williston, Florida, has ­tallied. Like the 267 SSX, the 278 SS is tad over 26 feet and boasts an electrically raised and lowered wakeboard tower and premium vinyl upholstery. Both brands custom-build their ­furnishings in their own factories.

Monterey does not offer the Infinity Power Step, a standard feature on the Chaparral. And in place of the standard Simrad on the Chaparral, Monterey offers an optional Go7 XSE ($3,311) in a handsome dash.

Both boats offer a walk-through transom and an aft-facing lounge, though their mechanics differ. On the Chaparral, the seatback is divided. If you pull the steel bar aft, half the seatback lies even with the aft side of the bench, while the other half forms an aft-inclined pillow—bring on the grape-dangling, palm-frond-waving servers.

Read Next: 2022 Chaparral 28 Surf

Other conveniences in the Chaparral include five inductive chargers, 14 stainless-steel cup holders, and highly polished grab rails at the bow and along the coamings, where they are handiest. Also important is the optional snap-in SeaDeck sole cover that gives softer, more secure footing than the diamond-plate deck and adds snappy color accents. 

Few people turn down the opportunity to be entertained by a boat owner, and fewer still will be able to resist the call of the 267 SSX, making the skipper a pretty popular guy.

How We Tested

• Engine: MerCruiser 380
• Drive/Props: Sterndrive/Bravo 3 26P
• Gear Ratio: 2.00:1 Fuel Load: 30 gal. Water on Board: 0 gal. Crew Weight: 700 lb.

High Points

• Silicone-based vinyl is extremely resistant to mildew and stains.
• There are five inductive phone chargers on deck.
• Wind dam below the windshield protects the cockpit from uncomfortable weather. 

Low Points

• We’d like to see more than a 65-gallon fuel capacity.
• Infinity Power Step switch is at toe height, susceptible to transom wash and hard to reach.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2024 Chaparral 267 SSX appeared first on Boating Mag.

For most of us, spending time enjoying watersports on your family boat is a rite of passage. Most boaters at some point enjoy skiing, wakeboarding, tubing or even surfing behind the transom. Thankfully, you can enjoy these sports behind boats that aren’t specific to the task. In the last few decades, multipurpose family boats have come a long way in the towing game with multiple features that enhance watersports, such as solid tow pylons, wakeboard towers, GPS speedometers, speed control, ballast for wakeboarding and wakesurfing, ­specialized ­sterndrives, and wake-shaping devices for wakesurfing. The sterns are designed with swim platforms for ease of putting on skis or a board and making it convenient to get in and out of the water.

These features are in boats with various ­propulsion types, including outboard, jet, sterndrives, and forward-facing sterndrives that place the propeller on the front of the lower unit so you can wakesurf behind a family boat with greater safety.

Here are six great family-oriented tow boats for 2023.

Jump to:

• Regal LS2 Surf
• Four Winns H2 OB
• Chaparral 23 SSi
• Yamaha 222XD
• Scout 195 Dorado Sport
• Avalon Waketoon

Regal LS2 Surf 

The Regal LS2 Surf combines runabout performance and features with tow-sports versatility. The LS2 Surf is based on the LS2 ($95,755 with a conventional 280 hp DP drive). It features a Volvo Penta Forward Drive, which is safer for wakesurfing and great for tubing, wakeboarding, water-skiing, kneeboarding and barefoot water-skiing.

Regal includes a variety of features to enhance the tow-sports experience. The helm features two 7-inch touchscreen displays that provide information such as GPS speed and water depth. The driver can set the acceleration, desired speed and wake ­characteristics for each individual rider. Steering and ­throttle movement prove smooth and easy, providing a better tow-sports experience for the driver and the person in tow.

For wakeboarding and wakesurfing, the LS2 allows up to 1,800 pounds of ballast, strategically positioned below the deck, with two ballast bladders located at the stern and one amidships. This allows the hull to ride deeper to create a bigger wake. Surf plates mounted at the transom adjust electronically from the helm to shape the perfect surf wave.

The higher tow point of the LS2 wakeboard tower gives boarders more air time but makes starting on a ski or board easier for beginners. A second tow point with a pop-up pylon at the stern will work well for towing tubers.

Because the engine is located below the deck, passengers have easy access to the swim platform and the water. The soft synthetic material on the platform is ideal ­because it keeps the bottom of a board or a ski from scratching while offering a comfortable, secure ­surface for wet feet.

Add a tow-sports mirror and you have an excellent boat for wakesurfing and other various tow sports.

Four Winns H2 OB

The Four Winns H2 OB accommodates tubing, water-skiing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding and barefoot water-skiing. If you want to wakesurf, Four Winns also offers the H2 Surf model with a ballast system,  powered by a Volvo Penta Forward Drive (starting at $121,130).

Four Winns provides options for the tow point, including a removable ­pylon that raises the towline above the outboard. Two wakeboard tower options are also offered. The base tower folds by gas ­assist, and the upgrade folds electronically.

The backrest of the port helm seat adjusts to face aft for the designated tow-sports spotter. Many outboard swim platforms offer limited use. However, Four Winns cleverly designed a swim platform that extends farther aft to provide plenty of space to put on a ski or a board. The swim platform offers an optional synthetic material on the platform, also ideal for putting on your ski or board.

Power comes from either a Mercury outboard from 200 to 250 hp or a Yamaha from 150 to 200 hp for ample acceleration and top-end speed. Trimmed down, it creates a small, smooth wake ideal for ­slalom-skiing and barefoot water-skiing. The H2 OB comes with fly-by-wire throttle and ­hydraulic steering to make throttle and steering smooth and easy for the driver. These features help the driver provide a smoother, consistent pull for the skier or rider behind the boat. The dash sports a touchscreen that provides information such as GPS speed and water depth. To design a perfect outboard-powered tow-sports boat, just add an ­aftermarket mirror to give the driver visual awareness of the person in tow.

Chaparral 23 SSi

Powered with either a Volvo Penta or a MerCruiser sterndrive, this 23-foot boat includes a variety of tow-sports features as standard or optional. Chaparral includes a tow eye mounted on the transom, with an optional wakeboard tower with a swivel tow point. The swivel tow point helps keep the line from fraying. Board racks are available for the tower also.

Sterndrive power allows for a spacious swim platform on the 23 SSi; however, Chaparral smartly includes an add-on section to extend the swim platform aft by an additional 25 inches as an option. An ­optional synthetic surface along with the ample space make putting on a wakeboard or a ski easy.

The helm features a touchscreen that provides GPS, water depth and other features. The digital throttle control and optional power steering both enhance the tow-sports driving experience for the driver and the person in tow.

Chaparral also offers the 23 Surf, which features a Volvo Penta or a MerCruiser forward-facing sterndrive ($93,895 nationally advertised price). The Malibu Surf Gate system is a paddlelike device located at the transom of the 23 Surf that converts the wake into a wave for wakesurfing by redirecting water flow past the stern of the boat. The Surf Gate is controlled electronically from the helm, allowing the surfer to transfer from one side of the wake to the other without stopping the boat.

The 23 Surf also features a ballast bladder that stows in the midship ski locker to increase the size of the wake for wakeboarding and wakesurfing.

The 23 SSi and the 23 Surf are perfect choices for those who want more from their boat than just cruising.

Yamaha 222XD

The 2023 Yamaha 222XD is ideal for families who love the handling characteristics of a sport jet boat but also want to have fun behind the boat. Yamaha designed the 222XD with multiple tow-sports features, including a wakeboard tower with board racks. The solid, raised tow point makes starts on a ski or a wakeboard easier and allows wakeboard riders to get more air time.

For the wakeboarder and surfer, Yamaha includes ballast bladders in belowdecks storage compartments to increase the size of the wake. The Wakebooster is a Yamaha feature that attaches quickly and easily to the transom of the boat to redirect the flow of water past the stern of the boat to convert the wake into a wave for wakesurfers.

Yamaha features a synthetic deck surface that covers the swim platform. This provides added traction when walking with wet feet, and the soft surface protects the bottom of the board or ski from scratches when putting on bindings. The swim platform rides low to the water, making getting in and out easier.

The 222XD includes multiple high-end features to enhance driving for tow sports. The boat boasts a wide-angle PTM mirror on the windshield, giving the driver improved visual awareness around the boat.

The 12.3-inch Connext touchscreen offers a menu of critical information, such as water depth and GPS speed. With a touch of the Connext screen, the driver can program acceleration, target speed and wake shape to accommodate various levels of rider or surfer experience. These settings can be saved for each individual.

The 222XD features fly-by-wire throttle for easy shifting, ensuring the person in tow a smooth pull-out when starting. Steering is designed to be easy and precise. Controls on the steering wheel allow the driver to maneuver the boat at slow speeds without relying on the throttle.

The new Yamaha 222XD is an excellent choice for families who love tow sports and the agility of a sport jet. 

Scout 195 Sport Dorado

The Scout 195 Sport Dorado is ideal for ­towing tubers, water-skiers, wakeboarders and barefoot water-skiers. The smaller size (19 1/2 feet in length) makes it maneuverable when pulling someone up or getting back to a fallen skier or rider. A swim step on the portside transom eases getting in and out of the water, and the co-pilot seat swivels aft to ensure a seat for spotting.

Known for quality design and construction, Scout doesn’t skimp on the Sport D­orado’s powder-coated tow point. As an option, it features a sturdy ski tow that arches over the outboard and attaches to the transom and deck at four points.

The 195 comes standard with a Yamaha 115 hp outboard, with an optional 150 hp offered ($54,121). However, the extra power of the 150 hp outboard makes sense for tow-sports use, especially to provide better acceleration for adults getting up on a slalom ski.

Fly-by-wire throttle and hydraulic steering provide a smooth experience for the driver and person in tow. The 195 Sport ­Dorado is equipped with a 9-inch Garmin display showing GPS speed and water depth, important information for the tow-sports captain.

The moderate 19-degree deadrise, combined with trimming the outboard down, results in a small, easy-to-cross wake for slalom-skiers and barefooters. Just add an aftermarket tow-sports mirror to have a fun family tow-sports boat.

Avalon Waketoon

Avalon has proven you can combine ­pontoon and wakesurfing in the same sentence with its Waketoon, a pontoon designed specifically for wakesurfing and tow sports. The first pontoon with a specialized sterndrive, this 23-foot tri-toon comes standard with a 350 hp MerCruiser 6.2L Bravo Four S forward-facing sterndrive, enabling safer wakesurfing. 

The Waketoon’s 4,200 pounds of dry weight creates a wake sufficient to allow two to surf simultaneously, one on each side of the wake. Two hydraulic wake plates at the transom adjust electronically from the helm to fine-tune the wake or convert from wake to wave when wakesurfing.

Avalon includes a wakeboard tower with a Bimini top and optional wakeboard racks. The large in-floor ski locker accommodates skis and boards easily.

In addition to the high tow point for wakeboarding, Avalon offers an optional stern pylon for towing tubers. The roomy swim platform features a soft ­synthetic surface, making it an ideal space for ­putting on a board or a ski. 

The Waketoon features a plush, comfortable helm seat. The digital throttle-and-shift provides precise acceleration. The dash features a sophisticated design that includes GPS speed and a touchscreen information center. A rearview camera lets the driver monitor the action behind the boat. Where required, simply add an aftermarket tow-sports mirror specifically designed for pontoons and you have an awesome tow-sports machine.

Avalon intelligently redesigned the pontoon by combining features for wakesurfing and tow sports with a modern aesthetic. The Waketoon is clearly not your grandparents’ pontoon.

The post Six Family Boats Built for Tow Sports appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

It was late on our Boating roundup test day, and I was a bit weary. When I climbed aboard the Chaparral 28, newest in the builder’s surf series, I sank into one of the seats and thought, OMG! These are really comfy!

But that’s just the beginning of my love affair with the 28 Surf, which is a terrific wakesurfing boat that doesn’t give up any of the family amenities—particularly a head—that many buyers expect from runabout boats. And the 28 Surf is big enough that you can take everyone in your neighborhood for a surf session.

The wide swim platform gets you aboard easily, and the solid-fiberglass walk-through gate into the cockpit keeps little ones safely in place. It also allows crew to board the boat without having to step onto the seat upholstery, as is the case aboard many watersports boats. The same parents who appreciate the locking gate will also like the 32-inch height of the gunwales for security and keeping spray out. 

Interior and Accessories

Our test boat featured the Black Edition package ($8,045), and wow—it was gorgeous. It starts with a gleaming (and flawlessly molded) black gelcoat hull and adds eye-popping cayenne silicone black-trimmed upholstery (Rolls-Royce, take note) with flow-through foam that dries quickly. The black accents continue in the windshield trim, plus all the smaller bits, like the dash panels and ski mirror. Of particular note, this package includes the black EFX1 tower, which quickly folds electrically for trailering or low bridges. The package also upgrades the JL Audio, with controls at the helm and transom.

What turns this from a delightful family dayboat into a ­serious wakesurfing contender are several ­elements. First, a single ballast tank holds 1,080 pounds, which combines with a Surf Gate that can shift the wake from one side to the other, regular to goofy-foot, by touching a button.

Engine

Engine choices include both ­Mercury and Volvo Penta. We had the 380 hp Volvo V-8 with a forward-facing Duoprop drive, which gets the props away from the transom, making surfing safe while still delivering much of a conventional sterndrive’s performance. We topped out at 46 mph running flat at 5,900 rpm. Because you’ll spend most of your time running around 25 mph, more impressive is you get 2.7 mpg. We were off plane at a surfing speed of 10 mph, but still posted nearly 2 mpg.

The skipper gets a bucket seat behind an impressive stitched vinyl dash and steering wheel, with twin Simrad monitors under an eyebrow to prevent reflection. Those Simrad 7-inch touchscreens have the Chaparral exclusively designed Surf System that does, well, everything. Set the boat trim with six profiles (surfer, wake board, ski, etc.), flip the Surf Gate back and forth by touching the screen, and set the speed within two-tenths of a knot. There is a sonar transducer (no running aground) and a dedicated GPS (no getting lost). The monitors also link with all the Volvo Penta controls and displays. There’s even a water-­temperature gauge to see if you really want to get in the water.

In the console opposite the helm is an enclosed head with 48 inches of headroom so you can change comfortably (as well as you know what). Our test boat had the available Tecna electric loo ($3,115), a sink, and a pull-out faucet for rinsing down in privacy. A drain is in the floor, plus an opening port to vent steam.  

The bow seating is luxurious, with folding armrests converting two seats into stretch-out lounges. Between fore and aft cockpits resides a solid fiberglass wind-block door to keep spray at bay. Hidden behind that door is an Isotherm fridge ($1,325) accessible to all, and big lockers are in the floor, including a 6-plus-footer. All have liners and deep gutters with seals to keep out rain or washdown water.

Underway, the 28 Surf produces smiles. Based on its 287 SSX sportboat hull, you can throw it around and it just banks into turns, asking for more. With the props tucked far underneath, there is no cavitation, so the only limit to how fast you can spin will be Aunt Edna screaming. And if you’re out in afternoon chop, the ­22-degree deadrise slices it into pieces and throws it aside.

The aft cockpit features the Vista View lounge, which one-handedly converts from a forward-facing bench to an aft-­facing lounge/sun pad. And the transom has the Chaparral Infinity Power Step, which unfolds to provide seating both at water level and when submerged 1 foot, making for easy water access whether you’re ­picking up surfers or sitting at a sandbar.

The optional JL Audio speakers ($2,650) are everywhere: in the tower, forward, aft, and next to the skipper’s ankles for a massage at full bass.

If you’re shopping, take a look at the Cobalt R8 Surf ($224,167 base suggested retail powered like our test boat). It also boasts a flip-down swim-platform seat.

Quite simply, the Chaparral 28 Surf is a great surfboat, a great sportboat and a great family boat.

High Points

• Infinity Power Step—wow!
• All lockers are fully lined, and lifting hatches have struts to prevent pinched fingers.
• All the normal service points are at the front of the engine to make fluid checks an easy task.

Low Points

• Companion glove box is not quite watertight—don’t toss your cellphone in without looking.
• Sharpish corners on folding windshield.
• Phone holder at the helm is too small for some phones.

How We Tested

• Engine: Volvo Penta V-8 2.0 EVC 2.32 DP FFD 380 hp Catalyst
• Drive/Props: Forward Drive/K4 Duoprop stainless-steel propset
• Gear Ratio: 2.32:1 Fuel Load: 50 gal. Water on Board: 0 gal. Crew Weight: 450 lb.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

Chaparral Boats – Nashville, Georgia; chaparralboats.com

The post 2022 Chaparral 28 Surf appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

At 24 feet, 6 inches in length, the new Chaparral 247 SSX checks several boxes. First, it’s a full-size family boat for a wide variety of boating adventures. Second, while it may be the smallest of the Chaparral luxury SSX series (up to 34 feet), it clearly has all the SSX DNA and detailing you’d expect from the larger boats. And third, it’s just plain fun.

Rated to carry up to 13 people, this is a big bowrider, so no one is going to feel cramped, even with Aunt Edna taking up cockpit space. 

Interior and Accessories

Let’s start at the pointy end. The bow seating seems straightforward until you sit down. The aft backrests have lumbar supports to take the kinks out of a long day on the water, and the side backrests that wrap around are equally comfy. They’re also padded deeply enough to keep your spine away from the big speakers in the coamings, and Chaparral gets points for the sturdy stainless-steel rails that run the length of the forward cockpit. They’re great security for those seated, and equally good for horsing the boat around at the dock or onto a trailer. 

One forward seat has an insulated ice chest under it so you don’t have to go aft for refreshments, and you can opt to add a removable table (with its own dedicated stowage) as well as a filler cushion to create a full sun pad. The anchor locker secures ground tackle under a molded deck lid and drains overboard.

Going aft, there is a one-piece “weather door” to close off the cockpit from wind or spray when the windshield is closed. Every skipper will be captivated by the thoughtfully arranged helm, with its pair of Simrad 7-inch Evo3 displays (custom-fit to this Chaparral) that combine all the information needed, from navigation (a dedicated GPS and chart plotter) to boat systems. 

The bolstered helm seat is another all-day delight. It is fully adjustable and has notches on the side that allow the skipper to spin around to look astern. The companion seat has a bolster for facing forward, but its backrest reverses to create an aft-facing lounge when desired.  

On the deck between the seats is a big hatch for stowing boards or skis, and you probably won’t notice, but the hatch is both deeply guttered and fully gasketed to be watertight. By the way, all the seat hatches have deep gutters, including another insulated cooler under the starboard seat. In addition, the cockpit is self-bailing, which means you can leave the boat in the water and a heavy rainstorm won’t sink it. Big stainless-steel drains in the cockpit corners see to that. 

The aft bench seat also proves versatile, facing forward with a high back that flips to become a chaise backrest for the wide sun pad, with a big, sturdy grab rail across the top of the seat. Before you go further, take a moment to admire the upholstery; Chaparral takes great pride in its triple French-stitched SiO marine silicone upholstery that is virtually maintenance-free.

A walkway to starboard leads to the oversize transom platform, with its standard four-step boarding ladder hidden under a hatch. One option on the 247 SSX is the Infinity Power Step, which unfolds the swim platform to become a seat or a beach for sitting in the water, with steps to help swimmers out of the water. I tried it—it’s a no-brainer.

Engine

This brings us to the engine, accessed via gas lifts that hinge the rear bench seat and sun pad as a single unit. There are no fewer than seven power choices in either MerCruiser Bravo Three or Volvo Penta Duoprop sterndrives. Both range from 250 to 350 hp, so pick your fave.  

Our test boat had the midrange MerCruiser 6.2L DTS of 300 hp turning a Bravo Three drive, which gave us a squinch over 50 mph—a nice balance between power and economy. While you have the engine hatch up, notice the heavy sound insulation, which kept our flat-out decibel level well under 90 dB(A).    

I also liked that the Merc had all the important service points at the forward end of the engine for easy access. The batteries are in a separate compartment under a hinged seat next to the sun pad. , There are both high and low tow points on the tower and transom to accommodate a variety of watersports.  

If you’re shopping, check out the Sea Ray SLX 250 ($120,616 with 300 hp MerCruiser 6.2L). It’s a foot longer, but you gain a head compartment.

The Chaparral V-Plane hull shape is interesting because it extends the running surfaces underneath the swim platform while leaving space for the sterndrive between to turn. The effect is catamaran-like, and it was noticeable underway, particularly during enthusiastic hard turns when these sharp corners helped give the hull some bite.  

The transom deadrise of 20 degrees verges on deep-V range, and the 247 SSX was surprisingly soft when powering through wakes. This was clearly a combination of the V-hull and its full-length running strakes that cushioned the landings.

The standard equipment list is generously long, and boat buyers can tailor the engine and equipment options to create a 247 SSX that fits their boating needs and delights.

How We Tested

• Engine: Single 300 hp MerCruiser 6.2L DTS
• Drive/Prop: Bravo Three sterndrive/15.5″ x 24″ pitch stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 2.20:1 Fuel Load: 40 gal. Crew Weight: 350 lb.

High Points

• A self-bailing cockpit is an important safety feature, especially in the ocean.
• Deep gutters on all hatches, plus mats on locker floors, help keep clothes and gear dry.
• Standard twin Simrad Evo3 displays offer chart plotting with full charts, GPS and Wi-Fi, as well as onboard system monitoring.

Low Points

• Water was present in the aft compartment of our prototype test boat where the battery switch is located, which means it was coming in from somewhere.
• Weather door closing off the bow rattled and needed a bumper, gasket or better latch to eliminate the irritating sound.
• A safety door for the walkway from the cockpit to the transom platform would be good if you have little kiddies.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

Chaparral Boats – Nashville, Georgia; 229-686-7481; chaparralboats.com

The post 2022 Chaparral 247 SSX appeared first on Boating Mag.

My first impression of Chaparral’s new 28 Surf was the large number of guests it will fit. The second impression was how easy it is to board, with a wide swim platform and a walk-through gate into the cockpit so there is no ungainly clambering over rear seats.  

My third impression? These seats are really comfortable, with high backrests, armrests on the two bow chaises, and an aft seat that flips to face forward or astern. 

Our test boat was the Black Edition, with a black gelcoat hull, cayenne silicone upholstery with black accents, and black bits, like the seat pedestals and ski mirror. A word to Rolls-Royce: Pay attention here.

Engine choices include the Mercury 8.2L (380 to 430 hp) Bravo Four S or Volvo Penta EVC (380 to 430 hp) Forward Drive. Our test boat boasted the 380 hp Volvo Penta with the forward-facing Duoprop drive, good for 4.3 seconds to plane and to hammer down 46 mph. Access is great in a tidy engine compartment, with all service points right upfront. A -Fireboy fire-suppression system is an available option.

The layout boasts a full-swivel companion bucket seat, with an L-shaped bench seat to port plus a settee behind the skipper. Twin Simrad Evo3 touchscreen monitors control wake- and wave-shaping functions and navigation, and display engine data. The bolstered helm seat slides with an especially easy-to-reach lever, and a fridge is tucked under the helm console.

Opposite the helm is a surprisingly civilized head compartment (48 inches of headroom), with an available Tecna electric loo, a sink, and a pullout faucet for showering in privacy. Chaparral understands there is never enough stowage, and everywhere you look are lockers and hatches, including a 6-plus-footer in the sole—and all have liners.  

The Surf Gate, combined with a single ballast bag, dials in wakes for every rider’s level using the Simrad screens, and the 22-degree deadrise slices chop for a soft ride. And whether wakesurfing or sitting at a sandbar, the Infinity Power Step platform provides steps into the water and dual seating levels.  

The Chaparral 28 Surf is a great surfboat, sportboat and family boat.

High Points

• Enclosed head for all-day family outings.
• Infinity Power Step provides in-water social seating.
• Excellent service access.
• Twin touchscreen MFDs control waves, wakes, navigation and accessories operation.

How We Tested

• Engine: Volvo Penta 380 hp V-8 2.0 EVC Catalyst
• Drive/Props: Forward Drive/stainless-steel K4 propset
• Gear Ratio: 2.32:1 Fuel Load: 50 gal. Crew Weight: 450 lb.

Pricing and Specs

Chaparral Boats – Nashville, Georgia; chaparralboats.com

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Chaparral’s 300 OSX exudes luxury while defying convention, with a delightfully unique layout for entertaining and cruising. An ultra-wide central command console includes twin standard Simrad NSS9 Evo3 multifunction displays and accessory panels. The deluxe wheel, binnacle, and optional joystick control for twin Yamaha F300 outboards are set into a rich padded dash and protected by a full-width windshield. The deep-V hull is designed to handle with precision and slice smoothly through rough seas.

The double-wide captain’s chair is complemented by a single co-pilot seat to starboard. Both offer flip-up bolsters and armrests. When not needed for piloting, the seat base cleverly pivots to starboard to serve as cockpit seating. The Vista View lounge is also innovative; it can change from seating to lounge to sun pad with the push of a button. Add a table for snacks and drinks. You might consider the optional wet bar abaft the helm chairs, but this negates the ability to rotate the seats.

A starboard transom gate offers easy access to the walk-across swim platform and outboards, and the starboard-side door permits safe boarding. To access bilge rigging, the Vista View base hinges upward on a motorized strut.

The portside walkway leads to the bow, where you’ll find an inviting lounger for two or more guests. It features an angled backrest and fold-down armrests. Add optional filler cushions to create a sun pad.

Back on the helm deck, slide open the starboard-side pocket door and step down to a surprisingly roomy cabin replete with a fiberglass liner, wood cabinetry, teak flooring, portlight, vanity, sink, freshwater faucet, and a flushing marine privy that cleverly slides into a cabinet and out of view when not in use. A cozy forward berth will accommodate two adults for overnighting.

The 300 OSX’s hardtop melds seamlessly with the sleek lines of the boat, and incorporates a sunroof and telescoping SureShade to protect and cool guests on sunny, sultry days. It also features overhead LED lighting to illuminate the interior at night. To set the mood, the 300 OSX comes standard with a six-speaker, SiriusXM-ready audio system with Bluetooth connectivity.

High Points

• Interior design defies convention and maximizes versatility.
• Well-appointed cabin includes double berth for overnighting; air conditioning is available.
• Motorized Vista View lounge expands aft seating opportunities and lifts up for bilge access.
• Expansive helm console offers room for twin MFDs.
• Twin Yamaha 300 hp outboards offer beaucoup power.
• A 140-quart cooler under the forward seating holds plenty of ice and provisions.

Specs

LOA: 30′6″

Beam: 9′6″

Draft (max): 2′10″

Dry Weight: 8,900 lb. (with power)

Seat/Weight Capacity: Yacht Certified

Fuel Capacity: 170 gal.

Available Power: Twin 300 hp Yamaha F300 outboards

Price: $259,345 (with twin Yamaha F300s)

More Information

Chaparral Boats – Nashville, Georgia; 229-686-7481; chaparralboats.com

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Chaparral’s 21 SSi OB ­represents a new series of runabouts that build on its H2O series by adding more luxury and style while keeping Chaparral’s commitment to quality and family pricing firmly in place. We reported on the sterndrive in our October issue, and the pair presents a formidable choice.

We liked the outboard for several reasons. First, with the outboard, you know before you hit the throttle which way your motor is pointed. That’s helpful when pulling away from the dock or sandbar, or unloading from the trailer. A sterndrive is hidden from view, and you can’t tell if it’s tilted for safe launching or, for watersports, if the helm is straight enough to give your skier a clean hole shot. Outboards are easier to flush after saltwater use, but sterndrives give a full, gunwale-to-­gunwale transom platform ­enjoyed by many families.

Bow seating on the OB or sterndrive is comfortable, with stainless-steel grab rails for security, and good looks, cup holders, and stereo speakers to bring the music forward. An anchor locker is easily accessible, and storage beneath the seats is easy to access and to clean at day’s end. The captain and key passenger get custom bucket seats with optional flip-up bolsters.

Beam-width bench seating has a cooler under the center cushion that can be aerated should you choose the optional fish package, which includes a trolling motor, batteries, a depth finder/chart plotter and ­fishing chairs.

The sun pad has three cushions, and the left and right one can be raised in a gull-wing manner to expose a transom walkway, or remain inclined to form a ­side-facing lounge. The sterndrive is just a tick faster than the OB, and it includes power steering over the OB’s simpler hydraulic steering.

Read Next: See the sterndrive-powered version of this boat

One thing to which we can attest, the 21 SSi OB bears all the quality for which ­Chaparral is known, and that promises a good return on your boating investment, which is the best antidote we know for boater’s 2-foot-itus: the quest for bigger and better boats.

High Points

• Putting the power on the transom opens an enormous storage area where a sterndrive engine would normally be.
• Optional wakeboard arch on our test boat folds for storage and low bridges.
• Nonskid sole self-drains overboard and is so handsome that opting out of the sea-weave vinyl sole mat could be a good play.

Low Points

• Outboard setup divides the transom platform in favor of full-tilting outboard convenience.

Toughest Competitor
Sea Ray’s SPX 210 OB is optionally equipped with Mercury’s new V-6 200 hp motor ($63,882 with comparable power and a wakeboard tower). It boasts a fixed transom walk-through on the port side, and we priced it with an optional vinyl woven-mat-look sole cover.

Price: $38,895 (with trailer and test power; manual folding tower is $2,879)

Available Power: Outboard

How We Tested
Engine: Yamaha 200 hp
Drive/Prop: Reliance SDS 14.25″ x 18″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 2.00:1
Fuel Load: 20 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.

Chaparral Boats – Nashville, Georgia; 727-595-2956; chaparralboats.com

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Chaparral is known for building luxury sport boats, but they don’t forget the middle-class buyer. They’ve expanded their SSi series to appeal to the brand-new boater. The 21 SSi Stern Drive has plenty of room onboard for a crew of 12 and has a ton of great features that come standard.

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