$64,900
Austin, Texas
Category
Cruiser Boats
Length
37'
Posted Over 1 Month
2004 Rinker Fiesta Vee 342 What a great layout! Entertaining on this deck is a true pleasure. Power options abound, in either gasoline or diesel configurations. For saltwater sensation or a truly impressive freshwater traveler, the Fiesta Vee 342 packs a pleasure punch.Rinker 342 Fiesta Vee Captain's ReportAt BoatTEST, we look at more than test numbers and features. We study brochures and websites, question company representatives, and ponder the boat as a whole to answer one basic question: What separates this boat from all the others like it on the market? In the case of Rinkers 34-foot cabin cruiser, the answer came down to two words, standard equipment.Most boats in this class include such conveniences as a microwave and refrigerator in the galley, a depth sounder and VHF radio at the helm, and a fresh water shower at the swim platform. Others will include more expensive equipment such as air conditioning or an electric anchor windlass.Rinker is a family owned company; a family inspired by boating, not accounting. Their company philosophy is clear: Build boats the way we like to use them, including all of the necessary equipment. This is noticeably true of the Fiesta Vee 342, which is outfitted from the factory with ALL of the equipment required for family outings and extended cruises, at a surprisingly competitive price.The most notable (and most expensive) standard feature is the five kilowatt generator, which is more than adequate to power the air conditioners, water heater, and galley appliances simultaneously. The cockpit wet bar includes an icemaker, two cubic foot refrigerator, and a built in blender. Other standard equipment includes a GPS receiver at the helm, built in coffee maker in the galley, and even a central vacuum system. Because the equipment list is quite inclusive, Rinker doesnt offer many options. This can, however, be disadvantageous. For example, a bow thruster would have to be a custom aftermarket installation, which tends to be more costly than a factory option. Alternately, consumers who could do without some of the equipment are paying for it regardless. The companys viewpoint is that if a boat is to ultimately include something, it is cost effective to incorporate it while building the boat, rather than inserting it later. This is clearly reflected in the boats price, which offers a lot of bang for the buck when compared to other similarly equipped boats.The 342 offers a lot in addition to its value, especially for cruising. While she is intended primarily for families, the layout can comfortably accommodate two couples. The aft bed, which sits beneath the forward part o
