Posted: August 1, 2011 | Boat Type: Runabout/Sportboat
A Day Boater's Delight
Day boating has a long and storied tradition, whether it’s on the East or West Coast or on the countless lakes and rivers in between. There’s just something about getting a group of friends together, loading up the coolers (many of which are now built in) and spending the day on the water. Boat builders have long sought to appease day boaters with styles that speak to tradition while implementing the latest technology.Vanquish Boats has a boat (two, actually) sure to catch people’s eye — and keep them dry. The 24 Runabout, which has a center-console brother, has an endearing snub nose when viewed in profile, owing to the helm that is pushed far forward to leave as much room for socializing in the stern as possible. Viewed from the front, the Doug Zurn-designed boat’s steep bow entry and flare become visible. That combination provides a smooth ride when not on plane and knocks down and deflects water away from the boat. At speed, passengers will notice the soft ride and stable turns provided by the 16 degrees of deadrise at the stern.
Top speed for the Vanquish 24 has been tested at 38 mph, depending on the choice of engine: two options from Crusader and one from Yanmar. The boat cruises comfortably around 32 mph and is easy to drive, with an Edson steering wheel and hydraulic steering.
The interior is easy to clean, with a choice of marine-grade vinyl or an assortment of Sunbrella designs. Two adjustable helm seats, which allow seated or upright driving, are forward, with a large convertible sunpad/chaise lounge immediately aft. A bench lounge is at the transom facing forward. A large cooler is built into the base of the sunpad, and there is plenty of storage in the bow and the ski locker located between the helm seats. At anchor, the sunpad easily becomes a serving area, with room for multiple trays of meats, cheeses and veggies — or crackers and cheese in a can, and chips and dip, if that’s more your speed.
A back-swept stainless steel-framed windshield wraps around to the helm seats, and a stainless bowrail adds an elegant touch up-front. The engine hatch is on electric lifts for easy access.
So if you’re a traditionalist with a modern streak or a modernist with a hankering for tradition, the Vanquish 24 — runabout or center console — might be your ticket. And while it’s called a day boat, we’re willing to bet it works just fine for that sunset cruise around the harbor, too
