Anyone own a Searay 215?

[andyjcox1]

Hi I am looking at upgrading from a speedboat, and like the look of the Searay 215.

I am based in Poole, and want something I can take to the IOW and back, with the occasional night on board, most likely on it's pontoon. It seems to do everything I need, but I am concerned about the 5ltr engine sucking fuel/cash out of my wallet.

Does anyone own one, and have any thoughts on good/bad boat, handling and sea keeping, useability of the cabin and any ideas on how much fuel it would burn at 20knots, or just pottering around Poole harbour for the day.

Thanks, Andy

 

[landlockedpirate]

The Searay 215 is one of the best small cuddies available. Relatively deep 'V' hull, good standard of fit out and a choice of seating options. Because of this they do hold their value well and are about 20% more expensive than an equivalent Bayliner/Four Winns/Chaparrel etc, but IMHO they are well worth it.

The 5.0L will use fuel, depending on usage about 2-20 gph (River speed to WOT) but remember you dont tend to run at WOT for large amounts of time. At cruising speed expect about 10gph (Cruise approx 25kts)

Its a great boat, buy a good one and you will always get your money back.

 

[robertt]

I am looking at a SeaRay also. Any idea on the range for this type of boat with a 5.0 litre petrol engine, assuming fairly cautious cruising speeds, to make the most of distance?

 

[[2068]]

Fuel tank is something like 190 litres.

Assuming 40-50 litres/hour at a fast cruise, that's wherever you can get to in less than 4 hours.

Could be 100 mile range, maybe more, maybe less: entirely dependant on weather conditions.

 

[jhr]

I have a 215, with the 5 litre efi engine. I reckon on getting about 3mpg at cruising speed (25 knots/3750 rpm). At maximum revs you can significantly increase that figure . I reckon on about 90 nautical miles per tankful in normal conditions but that's probably being a bit cautious.

I have a 5 mile trip down the Beaulieu River at 5 knots, before I can lean on the loud pedal, and I reckon that uses about 1 gallon.

I know I would say this, but they're cracking little boats. Excellent seakeeping for their size and great ride & handling. The cabin is, erm, snug, but better thought out than many of a similar size and - biggest plus of all - you don't have to lift the bunk to get at the loo: a great boon at 4.00 am . One side of the double bunk is longer than the other: I (6 ft) am OK - just - on the long side. Mrs jhr (5 ft 2) is OK on the other side but I wouldn't be.

You will give up before the boat does in bad weather but, in normal conditions, she's more than capable of doing Solent - Poole or Weymouth. Buy one, you won't regret it.

 

[robertt]

Thanks for very helpful reply, you also answered the other questions I should have asked!

 

[Bav34]

I had one and loved it. At 6' tall it was a bit of a squeeze down below for me but with the full camper canvas and the reclining seat ...

... I would often sleep up top just for the hell of it.

Can only echo the positive comments above.