New introductions from Formula, Antares and RS Sailing at the Newport show next week
Formula 400 SSC
Formula Boats has added another model to its outboard-powered super sport crossover series, the 400 SSC. The new model combines the performance of a stepped bottom design with a layout that puts the bow, cockpit and helm deck all on the same level. The cabin sleeps four. A full-height windshield and a hardtop enclose the helm and cockpit area. The helm has three seats that can be adjusted for comfort and dual Raymarine Axiom 12 multifunction displays put engine and course information in clear view. Formula powers the 400 SSC with Quad Mercury 300 outboard motors that can be upgraded to 350s and they come with digital shift and throttle and Mercury Joystick Piloting.
Beneteau Antares 27
Beneteau will show its three-model outboard-powered Antares series at this year’s Newport show. The largest one is the Antares 27, which measures 27 feet long with a 9-foot, 8-inch beam. There are also 21-foot and 23-foot models. Available power for the 27-footer is up to twin 200-hp outboards. The Antares 27 has horseshoe-shaped seats in the cockpit that convert to sunbathing areas. Belowdecks, Beneteau designed the boat with two separate cabins, a galley and a separate shower, not an easy feat in a boat in this size range.
Cantieri Gagliotta Lobster 35
Cantieri Gagliotta will be introducing its Lobster 35 to the U.S. market. It has an LOA of 36 feet, with a 10-foot, 8-inch beam. It is powered by twin 260-hp Volvo Penta D4 Common Rail 3.7-liter diesel engines. The manufacturer estimates top speed is 36 mph, with a cruise of about 30 mph. The cockpit includes a dinette with seating for eight around a table that disappears into the sole. The galley is equipped with a ceramic grill, a sink and a refrigerator. The helm includes a chartplotter and full Volvo instrumentation. Head below and there’s a V-berth forward with a head that has a pull-up shower.
RS Sailing RS21
RS Sailing says the RS21 is a great boat for club racing or sailing schools. The new model was nominated for the European Yacht of the Year 2019. The RS21 is a 21-foot keelboat that the company says combines sustainability, ease of use and ownership and solid sailing characteristics. RS Sailing builds the boat with eco-friendly materials including bio-derived resins and core materials made from recycled plastics. The hull has a 50 percent ballast ratio and the deck design provides space for four sailors, but can easily be sailed by a couple. A continuous mainsheet system is designed so the sail can be sheeted in using both ends. Finally, RS Sailing has partnered with Torqeedo for an optional electric motor pack.