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Lakeway, Texas
Category
Cruiser Boats
Length
24'
Posted Over 1 Month
2003 Four Winns 248 Vista Cruiser The 248 Vista has a thick, solid look to it — and the capable ride lives up to the promise of that look. When we describe the boat as "thick," in this case, we mean it as a compliment. The 248 still has sweeping lines that give the hull design plenty of movement, but the sturdy appearance gives notice that the boat has the constitution of an ox. The boat offers the solid feel of a craft heavier than its actual 5,970 pounds. During our ride through Sarasota Bay, the 248 Vista was able to handle the seas and chop from every direction. We used the trim tabs to level the boat in cross-seas, where we were heeling slightly from the swells and wind. Our test boat was powered by a 270 hp Volvo Penta 5.0 GXI DuoProp stern drive, which is the base engine. The 248 Vista is not exactly a svelte model, so with this lower-tier engine, it took us close to 8 seconds to reach plane. Moreover, this affected top speed, which was 40.2 mph (at 4,800 rpm) during our test. Cruising speed was around 20 mph, at 3,000 rpm, with two adults and 3/4 of a tank of fuel on board. The 40.2 mph top speed is acceptable, but nothing to write home about. We'd definitely upgrade to at least the Volvo Penta 5.7 DP, which is a step up to 280 hp and, according to the folks at Four Winns, raises the top speed to approximately 45 mph. If this were a light bowrider, you could probably get away with the 5.0, but a cuddy cabin this size needs a nice powerplant behind it, so spend the extra $1,200 for the 5.7. It's worth it. - Plus prep, tt&l. - vhf radio, auto fire ext, bimini top, camper canvas, gps, shorepower, hot water heater, pressurised, water marine head, microwavwe, stove, refridgerator,
