powerboat of the year 2024

European Powerboat Award 2024 : These are the powerboats of the year

Torsten Moench

, Leonie Meyer

 ·  20.01.2024

Sports boats up to 8 metres: Ibiza 601

Motorboats up to 10 metres: sea ray slx 260, motor yachts up to 14 metres: marex 440 gourmet cruiser, motor yachts up to 20 metres: azimut magellano 60, long range cruiser: omikron ot 60, powercats: leopard 40 pc, electric-boats: x shore 1.

All participating guests gathered for the judging in the spacious hall of the Düsseldorf boat show to find out which motorboats would be honoured this year. For the awards ceremony, the "main protagonists" of the international water sports industry came together for the Flagship Night, which Delius Klasing Verlag organises together with boot Düsseldorf at the start of the trade fair. On this Saturday evening, several boats scooped the "European Powerboat of the Year" award in various categories.

Of the 34 nominated motorboats, seven representatives of the shipyard received an award. As every year, the decision is by no means an easy task, as a suitable selection has to be made. And yet the jury members - consisting of experts from leading European motorboat magazines - have come to a decision. Here are the deserving winners who have been presented with a "European Powerboat Award of the Year".

The Scandinavian Ibiza 601 was able to assert itself in this class. With a boat length of around 8 metres and an affordable price, this well-built boat is the perfect entry-level model. It offers a well thought-out and extremely functional concept and can also potentially be used as an electric boat with the appropriate motors.

Technical data

• Length: 6,10 m
• Width: 2,25 m
• Weight: 500 kg
• Motorisation: 50 HP
• Info: www.ibizaboats.no

Statement of the jury member

Roland Regener from Yachtrevue says: "The consistent focus on the very special requirements in the Nordic archipelago makes the Ibiza 601 a perfect entry-level boat for day trips at a very good price/performance ratio."

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Sea Ray is one of the leading American boat brands and is represented almost worldwide. With the SLX 260, the shipyard has made a significant innovative leap forward. It is the successful further development of the previous models and shines with clever ideas that make life on board easier and more pleasant.

• Length: 8,31 m
• Width: 2,59 m
• Weight: 2752 kg
• Motorisation: 350 HP
• Info: www.searay.com

Yvonne Zwaan from Motorboat says: "This is the best Sea Ray I've ever ridden."

With the 440 GC, the Marex shipyard once again demonstrates its love of detail. It is perfectly crafted, thought through down to the smallest detail and bears witness to the decades of boatbuilding experience of the traditional Norwegian shipyard. The 440 can be regarded as a benchmark in this boat class that is unrivalled.

• Length: 13,70 m
• Width: 4,27 m
• Weight (without motor): 13 000 kg
• Motorisation: 880-960 HP
• Info: www.marex.no

Ole Henrik Nissen-Lie from Batmagasinet says: "The Marex 440 combines elegant design with many practical solutions."

In addition to its successful visual appearance, the Magellano 60 is characterised by its newly developed hull. It gives the boat perfect, and above all efficient, handling characteristics at both slow and fast speeds. Workmanship and safety standards are also at the highest level.

• Length: 18,47 m
• Width: 5,15 m
• Weight: 35 000 kg
• Motorisation: 1460 HP
• Info: www.azimutyachts.com

Claudio Russo from boatmag.it says: "The Magellano is a boat of great sophistication. Its dual-mode hull makes it possible to maintain the same efficiency and ride comfort both when displacing and planing."

Although it has only been on the market for a short time, the Greek Omikron shipyard has already succeeded in presenting a winning boat with its debut. The boat is one of the most economical vessels in its class, with a long range and also impresses with its combination of modern processing technology and classic design.

• Length: 18,41 m
• Width: 6,06 m
• Weight: 20 000 kg
• Motorisation: 500 HP
• Info: www.omikronyachts.com

Lori Schüpbach from Marina.ch says: "You can feel the shipyard's experience in the Omikron OT 60. It combines many ideas from the world of sailing yachts with the requirements of a long-distance motor yacht."

The Leopard shipyard is one of the world's largest catamaran shipyards. This is also evident in the 40 PC. It incorporates decades of boatbuilding experience, which is reflected in particular in the layout and practical detailed solutions. She offers an astonishing amount of living space and is extremely efficient.

• Length: 12,19 m
• Width: 6,61 m
• Weight: 13 830 kg
• Motorisation: max. 740 hp
• Info: www.leopardcatamarans.de

Michel Luizet from Neptune says: "The South African shipyard has risen to the challenge and designed the smallest cruising catamaran on the market. The result is stunning."

The Swedish X Shore 1 offers pure sailing pleasure and is one of the most advanced electric boats in the world. High safety standards and innovative ideas combined with good workmanship make the X Shore the ideal trailerable electric weekender.

• Length: 6,50 m
• Width: 2,23 m
• Weight: 1700 kg
• Motorisation: 170 HP
• Info: www.xshore.com

Ole Puls from BOATS says: "In terms of acceleration, the X Shore 1 is far superior to most other boats. It is also built professionally using sustainable materials."

Experts from the following magazines sit on the jury:

More about the European Powerboat Award 2024:

• All nominated motorboats up to 20 metres
• All nominated long range cruisers, powercats and e-boats

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Azimut wins 2024 European Powerboat Award

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Winner of the European Powerboat of the Year 2024

We did it again! This year, the Marex 440 Gourmet Cruiser won the prestigious European Powerboat of the Year 2024 award in the “Powerboats up to 14 m” category.

This year, the European Powerboat of the Year took part for the 18th time. The expert jury consists of the editors-in-chief and sea trial journalists from the eight leading European motorboat media from Norway (Båtliv), Italy (Boatmag.it), France (Neptune), the Netherlands (Motorboat), Spain (Nautica y Yates), Switzerland (Marina.ch), Austria (Yachtrevue) and Germany (BOATS).

Choosing the best of the best in the motorboat industry is an exciting process. The jury tested more than 250 new boat models to declare the winners. In addition to the usual quality features of a boat, such as workmanship or driving characteristics, the jury pays particular attention to the candidates’ space layout, safety and price-performance ratio. Implementing innovative ideas and concepts can also be crucial when each boat receives voting points.

The jury committee said, “The Marex 440 Gourmet Cruiser is perfectly designed and carefully thought out. It also demonstrates the Norwegian shipyard’s many years of experience in shipbuilding. The 440 can be considered a benchmark in this class of boats with no equal.”

The renowned prizes were presented in a celebratory ceremony at the traditional FLAGSHIP NIGHT, the big industry meeting organised by Delius Klasing Publishing House, German magazine Boote and boot Düsseldorf.

European Powerboat Award

About us. Our work. Our passion

The jury of the European Powerboat Award is put together from test riders and editors-in-chief of the leading European motorboat-magazines. Båtmagasinet (Norway), BoatMag (Italy), BOOTE (Germany), Motorboot (Netherlands), MoteurBoat (France), Nautica y Yates (Spain), Neptune (France), Marina CH (Switzerland) and last but not least Yachtrevue (Austria).

In total, our magazines represent over one million monthly readers in Europe and far beyond. Besides the print products, our magazines cover a much larger range, containing digital channels like websites, Facebook sites, Instagram pages and YouTube channels, providing information about boating to millions of users across the world.

This makes the “European Powerboat Award” the most important award of this industry worldwide.

The organization and implementation of the award ceremony is carried out by the BOOTE editorial apartment in Hamburg, who launched this award in 2005.

Meet The Team

Torsten Moench

Ole Henrik Nissen-Lie

Yvonne zwaan.

Michel Luizet

Claudio Russo

Daniel Aznar Paris

Lori Schüpbach

Roland Regnemer

Båtmagasinet

The announcement of the nominees is traditionally held during the exhibition in Cannes. The public announcement of the nominees takes place in the December-issues of the nine participating magazines, as well as their digital channels.

Following the nominating-phase, the Jury meets each year again in November, to vote for the final winners. Criteria’s like workmanship, safety, driving behaviour, design, distribution of space and the price-performance ratio are considered and rated and compared on an internal scoring system. The boat that has the most points in its class, will be awarded with the well-earned title: “European Powerboat of the Year”.

The winners are announced during the Flagship-Night, which takes place during the first night of the boot exhibition. The festive gala event is hosted by the Delius Klasing publishing house, in cooperation with the exhibition Düsseldorf.

The award ceremony is representatively hosted by Torsten Moench, in the name of all participating magazines. Nominated shipyards are automatically invited to this event.

© 2023  by BOOTE-Magazin     Impressum   Datenschutz

EDORADO ACHIEVES MILESTONE WITH THE ‘MARRIAGE’

Recently, we at Edorado reached a significant milestone with the successful installation of the batteries in our flagship vessel.

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Edorado 8S Nominated for European Powerboat of the Year 2024 Award

We are thrilled to announce that our Edorado 8S fast electric hydrofoil boat has been nominated for the prestigious European Powerboat of the Year 2024 Award in the electric category! This recognition is a testament to the outstanding innovation, performance, and sustainability of the Edorado 8S.

More about the 8S Client Care

European Powerboat of the Year 2024 Nomination

The European Powerboat of the Year award is one of the most coveted accolades in the maritime world. This esteemed nomination acknowledges the Edorado 8S as a pioneering electric powerboat that is leading the charge toward a more sustainable, high-performance future on the water.

What Sets Edorado 8S Apart

– Electric Performance The electric performance of the 8S sets it apart from other electric boats, excelling both in range and speed. With an impressive top speed of up to 74 km/h, it reaches one of the highest speeds achievable by electric boats, making it a thrilling choice for enthusiasts. – Build Quality The Edorado 8S boasts an unparalleled level of build quality, with not a single screw, bolt, or cable visible, ensuring a sleek and elegant appearance. Beyond what meets the eye, the attention to detail ensures that everything on the inside is impeccably organized, neatly tucked away, and thoughtfully designed. There are no rough edges, no loose cables, and no loose parts, making the 8S a masterpiece of craftsmanship and a testament to the pursuit of perfection. – Safety Our meticulous attention to detail not only enhances aesthetics but also significantly contributes to safety, making it an ideal choice for families, including those with children, by eliminating potential hazards and providing a secure and enjoyable boating experience. – Patented Safety System The Edorado 8S stands as one of the safest electric hydrofoil powerboats in existence, thanks to its innovative patented safety system. Unlike traditional vertical foil retraction mechanisms, the Edorado 8S features a pioneering design where the front foil pivots to the back upon impact, ensuring the smoothest landing possible in case of collision with an object. This groundbreaking system not only enhances safety but also guarantees peace of mind for passengers, making the Edorado 8S a top choice for those prioritizing security on the water. – Superior Hydrofoil Configuration The 8S features a superior hydrofoil configuration known as the Canard configuration, setting it apart from conventional designs. This innovative approach places the stabilizing foil at the front of the boat, providing exceptional stability and control even at high speeds. This configuration not only enhances the 8S’s performance but also offers a smoother and more responsive ride, making it a game-changer in the world of electric hydrofoil powerboats. – Not just a flying boat The Edorado 8S is far more than just a flying boat; it symbolizes our commitment to making fast boating green and sustainable. Our mission is to leave a lasting legacy of a cleaner world for generations to come. The 8S is the embodiment of this vision, showcasing that speed and environmental responsibility can harmoniously coexist, setting the course for a better, more sustainable future.

We are incredibly proud of this nomination and would like to express our gratitude to our loyal supporters and partners for their ongoing support. Your trust in our vision drives us to continue pushing the boundaries of electric boating.

Stay tuned for updates on the award results, and thank you for being part of our journey to redefine boating with us. Your adventure awaits!

#Edorado8S #ElectricBoat #HydrofoilBoat #PowerboatOfTheYear #EcoFriendlyBoating

European Yacht of the Year Award

SELECTION OF THE 2024 WINNERS        At the European Yacht of the Year Award we feel that the first big win is to make the nomination. So here you have the 21  most interesting new sailboats of this model year according to the 12 strong j ury . Other than in previous years we haven’t grouped them into categories because there are more and more crossover concepts that make it hard to characterize a boat without having experienced it on the water. So this time we first do the sailing and then we assign boats to their respective class.

The contestants for the European Yacht of the Year Award 2024 are:

 ● Arcona 50  ● Bavaria C46  ● Bestevaer 36  ● Cape Cod 767  ● Contest  ● Dufour 41  ● Flaar 24  ● Hanse 410  ● HH44 Catamaran     ● Elan Impression 43  ● Jeanneau Yachts 55  ● Maxus 35  ● Neel 52  ● Oceanis 37.1  ● Outremer 37.1  ● Pointer 30  ● RM 1380           ● Saffier SE 24 LITE  ● Shogun 43  ● Sun Fast 30 OD  ● XC 47 

To be among the finalists is already a great achievement. But of course we don’t stop here. Next up are the seatrials which are mandatory for all the finalists. They take place in La Rochelle mid September and in Port Ginesta near Barcelona mid October. After that the jury members do thorough debriefings, dive deep down into the specs and the data from the tests, they spend hour after hour debating before the verdict is reached in January.

The final announcement of this year’s winners will take place during the Flagship-Night on the first evening of boot Düsseldorf   (20.-28.01.2024).

Specifications

Length 14.99 m  ● Beam 4.60  m  ●  Draft 2.99 m  ● Displacement 13900 kg  

​ For further information, please feel free to contact the yards homepage  here.

Bavaria C46

Length 13.95 m  ● Beam 4.70  m  ●  Draft 2.30 m  ● Displacement: 12730 kg

For further information, please feel free to contact the yards homepage .

Bestevaer 36

Length 10.95 m  ● Beam 3.80  m  ●  Draft 0.70-2.40 m  ● Displacement 8800 kg

Cape Cod 767

Length 7,67 m  ● Beam 2,54  m  ●  Draft 0,2-1,80 m  ● Displacement 1100 kg  

For further information, please feel free to visit the webpage of the manufacturer .

Contest 50CS

Length 15.46 m  ● Beam 4.90 m  ●  Draft 2.35 m  ● Displacement 22900 kg  

For further information, please feel free to visit the we bpage of the manufacturer.

Length   11.99  m  ● Beam 4.30  m  ●  Draft 2.10 m  ● Displacement 9700 kg  

For further information, please feel free to visit the webpage of the manufacturer.

Length 7.23 m  ● Beam 2.50  m  ●  Draft 0,60-1,80 m  ● Displacement 750 kg

Length 11.99 m  ● Beam 4.29  m  ●  Draft 2.10 m  ● Displacement 9700 kg

Length 15.15 m  ● Beam 7.50  m  ●  Draft n/a m  ● Displacement 8750 kg  

Elan Impression 43

Length 13.32 m  ● Beam 4,25  m  ●  Draft 1,95 m  ● Displacement 11100 kg  

Jeanneau Yachts 55

Length 16.15 m  ● Beam 4.99  m  ●  Draft 2.45 m  ● Displacement 18500 kg  

Length 9.96 m  ● Beam 3.40  m  ●  Draft 1.95 m  ● Displacement 6200 kg  

Length 15.90 m  ● Beam 8.80  m  ●  Draft 1.90 m  ● Displacement 12600 kg  

Oceanis 37.1

Length 10.99 m  ● Beam 3.92  m  ●  Draft 2.10 m  ● Displacement 6900 kg  

Outremer 52

Length 15.73 m  ● Beam 7.90  m  ●  Draft 0.95 m  ● Displacement 12500 kg

Length 9.20 m  ● Beam 2.90  m  ●  Draft 1.25 m  ● Displacement: 2400 kg  

Length 13.30 m  ● Beam 4.53  m  ●  Draft 1.95 m  ● Displacement 9800 kg

For further information, please feel free to visit the webpage of the manufacturer.  

Saffier se 24 lite

Length 7.10 m  ● Beam 2.40  m  ●  Draft 1.30 m  ● Displacement: 1200 kg  

F or further information, please feel free to visit the webpage of the manufacturer.

Length 13.10 m  ● Beam 3.70  m  ●  Draft 2.40 m  ● Displacement 6100 kg  

Sun Fast 30 OD

Length 8.99 m  ● Beam 2.99  m  ●  Draft 2 m  ● Displacement 2700 kg  

Length 15.21 m  ● 4.56  m  ●  Draft 2.30 m  ● Displacement 14500 kg  

• BOOT PORTAL /

European Yacht and Powerboat of the Year 2023

A stage is set for the “oscars of the boating industry”.

The presentation of the awards "European Yacht of the Year" for sailing yachts and "Powerboat of the Year" for motor yachts is a major highlight every year at the boot Düsseldorf and an event that gets the hearts of many watersports fans pumping. This year's winners were selected on 21 January 2023.

Awards Ceremony 2023

At the traditional FLAGSHIP NIGHT, the major industry get-together of Delius Klasing Verlag and boot, the prestigious awards are presented in a festive act - after two years of virtual awards, finally on site again in Düsseldorf.

European Yacht of the Year: tests sailings of the nominated sailing yachts

For the 20th time, the jury members from the twelve sailing magazines from Norway (Seilmagasinet), Sweden (Båtägande), the United Kingdom (Yachting World), the Netherlands, (Zeilen), Switzerland (marina.ch), France (Voiles et Voiliers), Spain (Náutica y Yates), Denmark (Bådmagasinet), Austria (Yachtrevue), Italy (Vela e Motore), Finland (Vene) and Germany (YACHT) selected the best from the 2023 boatbuilding vintage from among 50 to 70 new or significantly reworked models. The sea trials lasting several days and setting the competition apart from all others, first took the jury to La Rochelle in autumn 2022, before the second, even more extensive test off Port Ginesta, near Barcelona, followed shortly afterwards.

These are the best sailing boats of 2023

Winner Family Cruiser

Winner Performance Cruiser

Winner Luxury Cruiser

Winner Multihulls

Special Mentioning Sustainability

European powerboat of the year: winner voting with points system.

Experts from the powerboat media outlet s had a difficult job selecting 28 nominees  across six categories from over 250 new boat models for the European Powerboat Award  2023. This year, organisers have introduced a separate category in response to an  increasing number of catamarans and electric boats. Besides the usual quality features of  a powerboat, such as workmanship and handling properties, the jury particularly focused  on the candidates’ layouts, safety and value for money. Ultimately, the implementation  of innovative ideas and concepts can also be a decisive factor.

These are the best powerboats of 2023

Winner Sports boats up to 8 metres

Winner Powerboats up to 10 metres

Winner Motorboats up to 14 metres

Winner Motoryachts up to 20 metres

Winner Displacement class

Winner Electric motorboats

Seamaster-award.

This year, the SEAMASTER Award was once again presented. With this honour, the two partners pay tribute to a personality who has made a special contribution to watersports. It was last awarded in 2020, with the exceptional German sailor and Vendée Globe finalist Boris Herrmann named as the recipient. In 2023, the award for outstanding and sustainable commitment goes to Ukrainian Opti coach Pavlo Dontsov for mentoring his young people in times of war. When Russia invaded Ukraine, Pavlo was in Valencia training a group of young Ukrainian Opti sailors. After he learned that war had broken out, he kept the group of children and young people together and set about caring for them simply as a matter of course – an act that reflected an international commitment to help. The jury saw this as “an example of cohesion in sport and a sign of hope in bleak times”.

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Best Power Boats of 2024: Review and Buying Guide

BENETEAU GRAN TURISMO 40

FOUR WINNS VISTA 255

For experienced and beginner boaters, nothing is more irresistible than the experience of cruising the open water aboard a powerful watercraft. The cool breeze and splash of water on the face, the foamy waves that trail the boat as it cuts through the water, and the sheer ecstasy that comes from steering a boat are all too strong to resist.

However, you need a good quality powerboat to experience all of these and more. For this reason, we have written this guide to show you five of the very best powerboats available on the market. Beyond that, you will find everything you need to know about choosing a good-quality boat and the category that best suits you. But before we get into all of that, let’s take a look at what powerboats are, albeit briefly.

What is a Power Boat?

Powerboat is a broad term that describes different categories of boats with engines. It can be a small boat for fishing or a larger one that can accommodate an entire family for long-distance cruises. The term even covers high-performance boats with every amenity a modern watercraft can have. Powerboats come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, and they are best suited to different uses.

That’s about all the lessons on powerboats you’ll find in this article.

Considering the numerous options, it can be an uphill task to choose just one, especially if it is your first boat. Thankfully, you are reading this guide, which means that you should be able to select the perfect watercraft that matches your needs in a few minutes from now.

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the best power boats and what to look for when buying one.

The XO 250 is fabricated from a 5083 marine-grade aluminum hull, making it lightweight and extremely durable. There is a lot of attention to detail in this boat, with neat internal lines that allow for plenty of built-in features.

It comes with a shock-absorbing bucket seat, and all the instruments and switches are conveniently located. The seating position is sited perfectly and gives clear visibility over the bow without the need to stand while helming fast.

The XO 250 features a 12V drawer fridge, an optional radar arch, a big plotter and sounder, and the bow has four beautifully molded lockers. The battery switch and stainless fuel tank are easy to access.

The XO 250 is the perfect powerboat for you if you want a watercraft that combines seakeeping, practicality, and style.

• LOA: 24 ft 6 in
• Beam: 7 ft 4 in
• Displacement: 551 lbs (no engine)
• Power options: 150 HP to 320 HP
• Fuel capacity: 50 gallons
• RCD category: C for 8

Check here for current listings of XO 250 .

 Yachtworld  →

• Safe and practical
• Rapid performance
• Solid build
• Low planing speed and flat transition to plane
• Excellent handling and seakeeping
• The rear bench seat has no option for replacement

AXOPAR 28 TT

If you want a powerboat that is distinctively solid like German cars, perhaps the Axopar 28 TT will be your best option. The GPR-built boat has an aggressive and radical styling.

The typical Scandinavian craft has a deck and cockpit areas that are designed extensively in G2 Flexiteek. Rock-solid guard rails top the high bulwarks moving forward. Even in out-of-sight places like the anchor locker is superbly finished without the slightest compromise that is often the norm in such hidden areas.

Under the double sun pad of the Axopar 28 TT is a carefully hidden double berth that can be accessed through the aft bench seat. So if you need to spend the night somewhere tranquil, you will find enough room to accommodate even the largest couples.

The forward seating area can be converted into a second sunbathing spot to complement the aft sun pad. The boat also has a large bathing platform that can comfortably accommodate a semi-deflated inflatable craft.

• LOA: 28 ft 2 in
• Beam: 9 ft 3 in
• Transom deadrise angle: 22 degrees
• Displacement: 3,725 lbs (no engine)
• Power options: 150 Hp to 350 HP
• Fuel capacity: 57 gallons

Check here for Axopar 28 TT listings .

 Boats  →

• Great protection from harsh weather
• Speedy performance
• Movement on deck is easy
• Many items on the rather long list of extras ought to have been included as standard items
• Options list contains only one engine manufacturer

From the French yard comes the Beneteau Gran Turismo 40 – a 40-footer that seeks to do things slightly different from the norm.

This powerboat comes with a regimented standard layout, including a chaise longue forward to port, a wet bar opposite a cockpit that has a C-shaped dinette right behind it, and a double helm to starboard located at both sides of the central companionway.

There is a central double berth in the forward cabin below, a saloon located in the middle with galley and head on the one hand and dinette on the other, and a center cabin that comes with two berths.

The boat is extremely lightweight without feeling that way. The hull is designed to take punishment without flinching one bit. There is plenty of room and seats in the cockpit.

• Length: 41 ft 2 in
• Beam: 12 ft 8 in
• Fuel capacity: 143 gallons
• Draught: 3 ft 7 in
• Displacement: 16,975 lbs

Check here for current prices and listings .

• Attractive and stylish design
• Performance with twin 300 HP engines is very high
• Unique and effective layout
• Great value
• Good seakeeping
• Only one windscreen wiper
• The finish is below premium level
• The storage in mid-cabin is slightly compromised

The Four Winns Vista 255 is a capable weekender for a couple or small family. Although it a fairly fast and efficient boat, it is not designed to be a sports boat, making it an excellent choice for easy cruising for the weekend.

It is worth noting that the cockpit is well elevated, especially considering its size. This means you will have excellent visibility, whether standing or seating. There is a convertible sunbed/back seat set up in the cockpit. This set up features a tilting backrest that can turn the spot into a seat facing aft so that you can watch skiers, swimmers, and anything that catches your interest.

The galley is equipped with a microwave and a small fridge, with enough room to accommodate a bigger fridge. Opposite the galley is the main cabin with a 6 ft 3-inches headroom. There is a full head complete with a shower, toilet, and sink. The convertible double bed/dinette is positioned diagonally. The mid-cabin has a queen-sized bed.

This stylish craft is a beamy boat, meaning it will retain its stability even when the crew moves about. The steering is considerably quick and very responsive.

• LOA: 25 ft 1 in
• Beam: 8 ft 3 in
• Draught: 2 ft 9 in
• Transom deadrise angle: 17 degrees
• Displacement: 6,194 lbs (with engine)
• Power options: 240 Hp to 300 HP
• Fuel capacity: 58 gallons

See here for Four Winns Vista 255 listings .

• A fast and efficient boat
• Quick and easy steering
• Excellent cockpit
• Quick and easy access engine
• Plenty of hull colors to choose from
• Impractical galley design
• Some couples may find the forward double berth too small
• Might not be tough enough to handle rough weather for long periods
• Too many extras, many of which should ideally be standard items

CRANCHI Z35

The Cranchi Z35 is a rare breed that falls in the mid-range sports-cruisers category. It is designed to have an open, sun-soaked cockpit with two spacious cockpits and twin diesel.

If you want a powerboat that will shine on a sunny day, this boat with a sociable cockpit will fit the bill. It has quite an impressive accommodation below decks. The well-proportioned cabins are built to have abundant storage and sleeping spaces to host adults for a few days or more.

The saloon has smart detailing and excellent headroom, too. The galley comes with plenty of storage, including cupboards and lockers that are lined in smooth GRP. The railings on the deck feature triple fender baskets on both sides of the foredeck. The guest cabin berth is large and has an infill cushion that transforms from a twin into a double berth.

• Length: 37 ft 11 in
• Beam: 11 ft 6 in
• Draught: 2 ft 11 in
• Fuel capacity: 131 gallons
• Water capacity: 42 gallons
• Engines: Twin Volvo Penta D4 260 HP
• Top speed: 34 knots

Check here for listings .

• Adequate space below decks
• Brilliant cockpit
• Attractive styling
• Punchy performance
• Good detailing and finish
• Helm seat might be uncomfortable
• Glare off the dash
• Tight engine room access

What to Look for In a Power Boat – Buying Guide

You have three choices when it comes to buying a powerboat (or any boat for that matter). These include a custom-made boat, a brand new boat, and a used one (in good condition). Whatever your choice, there are a few fundamental considerations that you shouldn’t compromise on, as they will determine whether or not you will enjoy your investment.

The following are the important things to consider.

• Engine accessibility : How easy is it to access the engine? Choose a boat with a readily accessible engine area to make it easy to reach the battery and check fluid levels.
• Visibility: According to Rule 15 of the United States Coast Guard Navigation Rules, all powered vessels must keep out of the way of boats approaching from the starboard. The problem is that visibility isn’t always good from the helm station of some boats. And if you can’t see your forward starboard quadrant, you might collide with an oncoming boat or run into some problems. So make sure you choose a powerboat that provides adequate visibility from the helm. As much as possible, avoid boats with obstructions caused by permanent fixtures, windshield mullions, hardtop supports, bulkheads, and overhead brows.
• Electronic needs : This is pretty straightforward. You want to choose a boat that has enough space for your entire electronics packages such as radar/chart plotter overlay, marine radio , radio tester, and a Wi-Fi and cellular range booster.
• Customization : Owning a boat means having the ability to customize it or include upgrades. For this reason, it is best to choose one that offers flexible customization options. For example, can you add or detach furniture? Can you make an upgrade to the galley?

It is also helpful if you read reviews from boaters who already purchased the type of powerboat you intend to buy. There are a good number of online boating forums where you can find useful first-hand information from boat owners. Are they pleased with the specific model you want? What are their concerns and complaints?

Here’s one more thing to consider. If you are buying a new boat or dealing with a manufacturer, find out if they have a comprehensive after-sales service. You want to choose a manufacturer that will continue to maintain a one-on-one relationship and an open communication channel with clients.

If you are in the market for a powerboat for cruising with your family, consider one with comfortable cabin space. For boating in the tropics or hot regions, you will need a boat with air conditioning systems.  Consider ample seating, too, because cruising with family and friends is a lot more fun and enjoyable when everyone has a comfortable place to sit and relax on the deck.

If what you want is a powerboat for offshore fishing, consider a boat with angler-friendly storage. A spacious deck where you can cast unhindered is equally important, too. Pay attention to the hull design, as a deep V-shaped hull cuts better through rough waters. Lastly, consider getting a fuel-efficient powerboat for offshore fishing, as this will reduce expenses on fuel.

Choosing the Right Power Boat

Having a list of the best power boats and knowing what makes a good one will not be of much help if you can’t make up your mind on which type to get. As you probably already know, these boats come in a wide variety with a vast range of hull forms, construction materials, and plenty of options in terms of propulsion and power.

To help you decide on which powerboat is right for you, we’ve outlined some of the more common types and their best use. This is not a comprehensive list, though, and that’s because powerboats encompass so many boat types from the small 12-footer tender to the ocean-crossing crawler and every other thing in between. So, we’ve left out some categories such as hovercrafts, personal watercraft, and catamarans.

Essentially, we’ve cut down the list to include rapid monohulls that are a great starting point for any beginner boater looking for the best power boats that suit their needs.

1. Bowriders

A bowrider is a great choice if you want a powerboat with a compact platform and adequate lounging space upfront. The open bows make them particularly suitable for frolicking on sunny days.

Although bowriders have come to be known with a traditional shape that features tapered forward lines, other options that present a whole lot of newer and spacious formats are now available. The space ahead of the helm in the traditional bowrider is quite tight. To allow for more internal seating room, newer versions have beams that are further forward, but the trade-off is a little bit of the sporting ability and aesthetic appeal of the traditional shape.

A classic traditional bowrider is the Sea Ray 190 SPX , while newer formats include Bayliner Element XR7 and Interboat Neo 7.

Here are a few things to look for in a bowrider that can perform excellently well in water sports:

• Extra cockpit seating
• Powerful inboard engines
• Automated throttle
• Wakeboard towers
• Wake-tweaking devices (e.g., fins, and ballast tanks)

2. Cabin Style Power Cruisers

If accommodation is topmost in the things you want in a powerboat, the cabin style power cruisers might be your best bet.

These powerboats fall into two broad categories:

• The sporty craft – small design with compact cabins in the bow.
• The people carrier – broader and more spacious designs with an emphasis on comfy accommodation rather than performance.

Whichever option that appeals to you, you need to consider convertible furniture to create more sleeping room. A galley at the top means more accommodation below deck. On the flip side, a cabin style powerboat with the galley below the decks creates more space at the sun deck for seating. So, make sure to choose an option that suits your accommodation needs.

Here’s a quick tip: if you are thinking of buying a cabin style powerboat as your first boat, you don’t have to break the bank to get a massive boat, even if you can. It is best to start with a smaller and cheaper option that is more efficient and manageable.

You would have learned how to operate a boat better and with more confidence in a short while. And using it for a season, you would be able to say for sure what shape and size work best for you.

Some of the best power boats fall in the category of hard-hulled planing crafts with built-in inflatable collars. These are particularly suited for water sports, fishing, lounging, diving, and load carrying.

In the end, your intended usage, price, and size will determine what type of RIBS you buy, but it is important to note some of the options. RIBS constructed from Hypalon are last longer but are more expensive than PVC-constructed tubes. Your driving style will also come into play when you consider seating features, which include traditional jockey seats, leaning posts, benches, and impact-mitigation seats.

The power option depends a lot on the type of boater you consider yourself to be. So, before you choose a fit-out and hull shape , think about how you would typically use a powerboat.

4. Center Console Powerboats

When it comes to versatility, center console powerboats take the lead. You can use them for angling or even for taking your family on long smooth rides.

Select one with less built-in furniture and an emptier deck if these type of boats appeal to you. This way, you can add the furniture that matches your needs the most. Many center console powerboats have less weight due to the inclusion of only basic facilities, which means they cost a lot less than other options. Also, they generally tend to have greater running efficiency and more agile handling because they weigh less.

5. Sport Yacht

Sport yachts are the best power boats for traveling long distances. They are faster and sleeker than traditional yachts but come with spacious cabins for overnight and extended stays. If you intend to entertain guests, this category of powerboats would be your best option. They combine luxury and performance.

For those who want to be the party, consider getting one of these powerboats that come with a full galley or one with the option for convenient upgrades to modern kitchen facilities such as a good-quality boat grill .

6. Walkaround Fisher

Lastly, there’s the Walkaround Fisher category for those who prefer a “hybrid” powerboat of some sort. If you want a powerboat that does a bit of everything, consider getting a Walkaround Fisher. A good choice would be the compact Trophy 2152 Walkaround with a small cabin for fishing and water sports.

Choosing a powerboat can be quite daunting considering all the options available, but you don’t have to settle for less than what you want. You can be sure that there’s a boat out there that matches your need no matter what it is. Do not compromise on the features that work well for you. Study the boats on this list, and you’re sure to find one that suits you.

About Chris

Outdoors, I’m in my element, especially in the water. I know the importance of being geared up for anything. I do the deep digital dive, researching gear, boats and knowhow and love keeping my readership at the helm of their passions.

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The Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix returns for it’s 40th year

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Presented by Sarasota county, this event offers music, plenty of food, and powerboat displays.

Fifty teams will compete in the Suncoast for the checkered flag.

This three day event will take place from Friday, Sept 13, to Sunday Sept 15.

The weekend’s event schedule is as follows:

P1 2024 PIT PARTY

Friday, September 13th, 2024

TIME: 6pm-10pm

PLACE: Van Wezel Parking Lot, 777 N Tamiami Trl

NOTES: Parking is limited. Alternative options are available at the Palm Avenue Garage (1289 N Palm Ave) or State Street Garage (1538 State Street).

DAY 1 RACE SCHEDULE

Saturday, September 14th, 2024

RACES: 11am-4pm

OPENING CEREMONY: 11am-11:30am

PLACE: Lido Beach, 400 Benjamin Franklin Dr

NOTES: Race day parking is available at the St. Armands Parking Garage (57 North Adams Drive).

DAY 2 RACE SCHEDULE

Sunday, September 15th, 2024

RACES: 10am-3:30pm @ Lido Beach

AWARDS CEREMONY: 5pm-6pm

NOTES: Race day parking is available at the St. Armands Parking Garage (57 North Adams Drive), and Van Wezel event parking is located at Palm Avenue Garage (1289 N Palm Ave) or State Street Garage (1538 State Street).

This event is free to attend for all.

In case of inclement weather, the awards ceremony will take place inside the Bayfront Community Center located at 803 N. Tamiami Trail.

Copyright 2024 WWSB. All rights reserved.

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The best selling center consoles from these well-known manufacturers:

Albury  •  Angler  •  Bahama  •  Boston Whaler

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Donzi  •  Edgewater  •  Everglades  •  Glacier Bay

Grady-White  •  Hydra-Sports  •  Intrepid  •  Invincible

Jupiter  •  Mako  •  Parker  •  Pathfinder  •  Polar

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Sports | Gold Cup powerboat race highlights San Diego…

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Sports | Gold Cup powerboat race highlights San Diego Bayfair weekend on Mission Bay

San Diego Bayfair will also be hosting one of the more historic events in motorsports. The American Power Boat Association Gold Cup, which dates to 1904 — or seven years before the first Indianapolis 500.

Six of the turbine-powered Unlimiteds are entered in the event, with qualifying Friday, three heats races Saturday and three heats Sunday before the championship race around 3:45 p.m. Competition will be held on the 2½-mile Bill Muncey Memorial Course between East Vacation Isle and Crown Point Shores on the west and Fiesta Island on the east.

This will be the 56th Unlimited Hydroplane race on Mission Bay since 1964 and the fifth time San Diego has hosted the Gold Cup — although this is the first time since 1989.

The weekend program will also include racing in the automotive-powered Grand Prix class plus One Liters and other flatbottom and limited hydroplane classes.

“The goal is to have more action on the water plus other activities,” said race director Bob Davies. “It’s more than a race. It’s a festival.”

Historically, the saltwater Mission Bay course has been the fastest on the tour.

“Mission Bay is by far one of my favorite courses,” said three-time Mission Bay champion J. Michael Kelly. “Not only because it’s a very fast course that I’ve had success on, but it’s also a beautiful place to visit. It’s like a mini-vacation before and after a serious weekend of racing.”

The boat racing course was part of the charter when the Mission Bay aquatic park was first being developed in 1958. The curvature of East Vacation Isle and Fiesta Island was designed for the race course, with the sloping beach developed to dissipate waves from both race boats and recreational boat traffic.

While Kelly is one of the six Unlimited Hydroplane drivers here this weekend, he is not the one to beat.

Andrew Tate and his U-91 could clinch the season driver and boat championships during Saturday’s heats. With two wins, a second and a fourth in the season’s first four races, Tate and the U-91 hold a 949-point lead over teammate Corey Peabody and the U-9 entering the traditional Mission Bay season finale.

Tate won the season’s first two races at Guntersville, Ala., and Madison, Ind. Peabody defeated Tate at Tri-Cities, Wash. Kelly won in Seattle in the U-1.

Rounding out the six-boat fleet in the East Vacation Isle pits are the U-40 (Dustin Echols driving), U-11 (Jamie Nilsen) and the U-27 (Dave Villwock). Echols is third in points with 3,837, followed closely by Nilsen at 3,812 and Kelly at 3,795.

In addition to his win, Peabody has a runner-up finish, a sixth-place finish and a seventh-place finish this season. Echols has a third and three fifths. Nilsen has pair of seconds.

But don’t count out Villwock on Mission Bay. Now 70 years old, Villwock is the all-time leader in Unlimited Hydroplane wins with 67. He is 10-time winner of the Gold Cup and a 10-time champion on Mission Bay, where he last won in 2011. Villwock has been racing Unlimited since 1992, although he has twice retired only to return.

Tate scored his Mission Bay wins in 2014, ’19 and ’21. There was also no race during the pandemic year of 2020. Tate previously scored back-to-back wins in ’17 and ’18.

The rules of the Gold Cup places extra demands on Unlimited Hydroplane teams. The preliminary heats are each four laps. Sunday’s championship will be five laps of the 2.5-mile course.

The Unlimited Hydroplane program opens at 11 a.m. Friday with testing. Two 45-minute rounds of qualifying will commence at 12:50 p.m. and 2:35 p.m.

The Grand Prix boats powered by big-block automobile engines will race on a shorter 1 2/3-mile course between East Vacation Isle. The Grand Prix field includes a pair of entries from Australia. The One Liters and other hydro and flatbottom classes will also run on shorter courses with all the championship heats scheduled for Sunday.

One of the attractions of Bayfair is that it is the only weekend of the year when motorhomes and overnight camping is allowed on East Vacation Isle, Fiesta Island and Crown Point Shores. Limited spaces are still available on Fiesta Island and Crown Point Shores, although East Vacation Isle is sold out.

Three-day super passes are available for $60.

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Father and son jump to safety as power boat slices through their kayak - and doesn't stop

Washington cops have arrested a 20-year-old man in connection with the hit and run incident

A father and son who were kayaking at a popular beauty spot in Washington state have told how they were forced to leap to safety moments before a power boat drove into them.

After a week-long investigation, Thurston County Sheriff’s Office in Washington has arrested a 20-year-old man, who is suspected of driving a power boat through the two-person kayak , almost slicing it into two pieces.

The incident happened in Puget Sound, at Carlyon Beach, on the Totten Inlet side of the tip of the Steamboat Island peninsula earlier in Augus. Police finally arrested a suspect on Friday following eye witness accounts.

“A power boat had collided with a kayak, leaving its two occupants floating in the water,” said the Sheriff’s Office in a Facebook post. “The operator of the power boat, who was alone, continued on without stopping to assist. Thanks to a detailed description of the boat, our boating deputies were able to track it down. The boat was owned by the operator’s employer, who cooperated fully with the investigation. The suspect has been located and is now facing criminal charges.”

The kayakers involved were Philip Hill and his son Adam, who were paddling to Hope Island when they saw a power boat heading for them. As they recount in an interview with KING 5 Seattle (video below) they waved their bright yellow paddles to alert the power boat driver, and refuse to believe he wouldn’t have been able to spot them or their bright red kayak.

But the boat continued towards them and they had to bail, leaping into the water as the power boat ploughed through the kayak, almost breaking it in two.

“You can kind of see a couple of the spots where the propeller hit,” says Adam, showing the damage to the kayak in the video, which shows one end of the craft hanging off. “It split through it entirely.”

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And while it’s been more than a week since the potentially fatal collision, Adam says, "Physically, we're fine – mentally, still messed up.”

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DeLand power boat builder indicted in Ohio, sued for $270K by New York man for fraud

Terrance Weber wanted to repower his 30-foot Spectre performance boat so he reached out to a DeLand company that builds the "go-fast" water vessels. But three years later he's still in "paradise without his boat" and out more than $270,000, according to a lawsuit.

It doesn't look like he will be getting any relief anytime soon, either. In July, owners of the boat-making company, Todd Allen Lamb, 50, and his wife Karen Nicole Lamb, 42, were each indicted in Ohio on nine counts, including felony charges of grand theft.

And in a bizarre twist, Weber is also in trouble with the law. On December 24, 2022, he allegedly paid a man to steal a boat from Lamb's DeLand shop and faces charges of burglary and grand theft of more than $100,000, according to court records.

It is a complex tale that is playing itself out in courtrooms in Bellefontaine, Ohio, and Volusia County, Florida, with no obvious takeaways other than to "let the buyer beware" when it comes to high-speed boats and that it doesn't pay to take the law into your own hands, even if you feel like you've been stiffed.

Who is Todd Lamb?

Todd Lamb and his family got a warm welcome when he relocated his high-performance boat company, Spectre Powerboats , to a 26,000-square-foot space at DeLand Municipal Airport from central Ohio, according to a December 2021 press release.

“We are very happy to be in Florida, closer to 85 percent of our customers,” he said in the Team Volusia Economic Development Corp. release. “And we are especially glad to have landed in the DeLand area of ​​Volusia County. The area offers an exceptional quality of life and an excellent business climate. “

The release says Lamb is a veteran of boat building and racing, starting in 1992 at the age of 18 when he built small racing boats out of crashed boat parts.

“I couldn’t afford to build new ones, so I built new boats from recycled and discarded boats. In a way I sneaked into the industry," he said.

Government officials welcomed Lamb and his wife Karen, who worked at the company, as well as their teenage daughter.

“The addition of Spectre Powerboats to our corporate roster. . . underscores DeLand’s role in hosting sports-related activities," said Nick Conte, DeLand's economic development manager at the time.

“We welcome Spectre Powerboats to our community and our growing list of marine manufacturers,” echoed Volusia County Manager George Recktenwald. “Spectre’s move to Volusia County is another indication that this is a great place to do business.”

Lamb said Team Volusia was instrumental in the site search process and made presentations to local partners who could provide services and support to Spectre. “Your advice and assistance helped us make many important decisions in a timely manner, keeping our relocation on time,” he said.

The locals may not have been so helpful if they had done a Google search on the new resident.

Prior to moving to DeLand, the Lambs were living in Bellefontaine, Ohio, a small town northeast of Dayton. According to the FBI, in October 2013, Todd Lamb pleaded guilty in the U.S. Southern District Court of Ohio to selling a Mack dump truck to more than one buyer.

Selling the same truck twice

After he delivered the truck to the first buyer, he falsely told the second buyer that the truck had been stolen from the seaport in Jacksonville. He told the second buyer, who was from Wyoming, that he would refund the purchase price but did not, FBI investigators said.

The Wyoming buyer got part of his money eight years later when Lamb pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful interstate transportation of stolen motor vehicles, and one count of wire fraud.

Investigators said Lamb and his wife, Karen, conducted consignment sales and auctions of vehicles, equipment, and other goods and merchandise under the companies Almite Services and Almite Auctions. He also stole and sold vehicles through his businesses, including a Caterpillar backhoe to the Wyoming buyer.

The Columbus News Dispatch reported in 2014 that Todd Lamb was sentenced to a year in prison.

According to the FBI, Karen Lamb pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of making false statements relating to the transfer of a vehicle title and was sentenced to six months’ probation in October 2012.

In the Ohio indictment, announced last summer, the couple was charged with three counts of fourth-degree felony grand theft, third-degree felony aggravated theft, theft from an elderly person, third-degree felony grand theft, fourth-degree felony defrauding creditors, second-degree felony telecommunications fraud, and engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity.

The indictment, provided to the Daytona Beach News-Journal by the Logan County Clerk of Courts, shows the Lambs engaged in the alleged criminal activity starting in 2017.

Between Dec. 19, 2017, and June 19, 2020, the Lambs "deprived an Ohio man of property and services" and stole $143,650 along with two Mercury boat engines, the document states.

From Feb. 9, 2018, through Oct. 10, 2018, the Lambs reportedly stole $209,339 from another Ohio man.

An elderly man from the state lost $300,462 to the Lambs who never delivered property or services to him, the court document outlined.

All the funds taken from the Ohio residents were paid to the Lambs to build boats, said Eric Stewart, the Logan County prosecutor handling the Lambs' case.

"They never got their boats and they did not get their money back," Stewart said.

The Lambs also deprived Caterpillar, a heavy equipment company, of two hydraulic excavators in March and December 2020. And, the couple also defrauded Caterpillar as creditors of more than $7,500 but less than $150,000, the Ohio prosecutor said.

"He signed a lease putting little money down, and then he sells the machines and never paid the lease," Stewart said.

Stewart said Todd was released by the Ohio court but a GPS ankle monitor was placed on him until his trial next year. Karen Lamb was released on her own recognizance, the Logan County prosecutor said.

Reached at Spectre Powerboats business telephone number, and asked about the allegations, Todd Lamb said that he had no idea what a News-Journal reporter was asking him about and that the reporter had the wrong number and hung up.

But Lamb did reach out to his alleged victims after he was arrested in Volusia County on Ohio warrants and released on $10,000 bail.

Weber provided the News-Journal with a voicemail he claims Todd Lamb left him. In that voicemail, Lamb identifies himself and says he wants to make things right with Weber and the Ohio victims.

"I'm sure you guys are very upset with me, but I'd like to see if there's a way we can work all this out," he said in the voicemail recording.

Failure to deliver

In November 2021 Weber, of New York, agreed to have Todd Lamb build him a new 32-foot Spectre performance catamaran for $340,000, including a trade-in, he said.

"When he dropped in an amazing manufacturer's discount, I was sold," Weber recalled in a telephone interview of the deal he made with Lamb.

As part of the agreement, Weber traded in his used Spectre boat for $80,000 putting down a $10,000 deposit on Nov. 1, 2021. According to a lawsuit filed by Weber, he has paid Lamb, including the trade-in value, $271,787.50.

For the first four months, everything appeared normal but then Lamb stopped giving Weber updates on the boat. The New York businessman then hired another boating company in Florida to handle the boat building.

"He (Todd Lamb) started becoming adversarial and I wondered why he was giving us such an attitude for simple questions he was being asked," Weber said. "Then I Googled him and found that he had served time for scamming people, that he was under investigation for fraud, and I knew I was screwed."

When Weber continuously asked Lamb to provide status reports, he eventually asked the man for his trade-in back. Then Lamb called the police on him, Weber said,

An October 2022 DeLand police report shows Lamb reported Weber's constant contact and asked the police to tell Weber to stop calling him and his employees.

Weber said he tried reaching an agreement with Lamb to get his boat "as is" but Lamb refused. In the end, Lamb did not deliver the new boat and did not return the trade-in, Weber said.

Weber, a small businessman, said the theft has had an emotional impact on him.

"I've laughed, I've cried. I've been through every emotional gamut you could go through," Weber said. "I mean, look at the amount of money they are stealing. It's like taking a house from someone."

Weber said he created a social media page denouncing the Lambs' activities and was contacted by victims in Ohio and Georgia, who have had similar experiences with Lamb.

Weber is suing the Lambs hoping to recoup what he said he paid the couple between November 2021 and July 2022 - $271.787.50 - for the boat they did not deliver, documents detail.

Victim becomes a thief?

Weber said his frustration grew even more when he tried to report Lamb's criminal activity to the DeLand Police Department. He said he made special trips to DeLand to visit the police station to file a complaint but that if "he got more than 30 seconds at the plexi glass," the front lobby's window, it was too much.

Weber said he sent DeLand police a document drafted by his New York lawyer, Mark Seidenfeld, on Dec. 25, 2022, outlining what Lamb did but police did not act on it.

"They told me that Todd Lamb was a legitimate businessman and that my issue was a civil case," Weber said. "But the police readily arrested me over my very own boat."

According to a DeLand police arrest report, on Dec. 24, they responded to an alarm at Lamb's shop. Lamb told them a boat had been taken. He told police that he had an ongoing civil issue with Weber and that Weber had said he would be taking a boat from his business, the report said.

DeLand police spokeswoman Vicki Karr said there is no record of Weber contacting the police prior to the Dec. 24 grand theft arrest.

Police noted that a bay door had been cut open. State police in South Carolina later spotted the 32-foot boat being towed north on Interstate 95 and stopped the vehicle. They arrested Ronnie Dominguez, of Pennsylvania, who said Weber had paid him to tow the boat to New York, an arrest report states.

Weber told investigators that he had paid a sum of money for the boat and that he and Lamb had reached an agreement where he could pick it up. This was outlined in a letter to DeLand police from Weber's New York attorney dated Dec. 25, 2022.

Another lawsuit filed

Weber sued Spectre Marine LLC in April. He alleges in the last five years, the Lambs have opened different boat manufacturing companies under the Spectre name and that they started Spectre Marine, LLC., doing business as Spectre Powerboats at the Summerhill Drive location in DeLand.

"They were not conducting business at that location. It was a criminal enterprise," Weber said.

Lambs depend on ill-gotten proceeds

The lawsuit filed by Weber argues that the Lambs depend on ill-gotten proceeds as their income and have engaged in racketeering activities related to custom powerboat manufacturing.

The Lambs built the boat for Weber but kept increasing the value and then claimed Weber owed them $55,000. The Lambs then sold the boat to a third party, the suit states.

"I am hoping the court will make a judgment against Todd Lamb and his Spectre company," Weber said. "I got robbed, dude. I got straight robbed."

In a statement, DeLand officials said they had a minimal role in getting the Lambs to locate in the city.

"Like any business that relocates to our community, we expect customers to be treated fairly and ethically," they said. "If the allegations are indeed true, we hope justice is served and that those wronged are able to pursue remedies available through our court system,” the statement read.

Recktenwald did not respond to an inquiry from the News-Journal asking for comment. Three Team Volusia executives also did not respond to emails from the News-Journal seeking comment.

Weber awaits his fate in criminal court.

Channel crossings since Labour came to power top 10,000

• English Channel
• Tuesday 17 September 2024 at 3:48pm

More than 10,000 migrants have arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel since Labour won the general election.

Home Office figures show 65 migrants made the journey in two boats on Monday, taking the provisional total for the year so far to 23,598.

The latest crossings mean 10,024 arrivals have been recorded since Sir Keir Starmer became Prime Minister on July 4.

The total for 2024 to date is 1% lower than this time last year (23,940) and down 21% on the same period in 2022 (29,783).

The figures come in the wake of Channel deaths over the weekend and as Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced £75 million would be used to boost the number of border security officers amid the Government’s bid to crack down on people smugglers, using money redirected from the scrapped Rwanda deportation plan.

The cash will also pay for hidden cameras and better monitoring technology as the Home Office sets up its new Border Security Command, led by a former police chief, as it aims to speed up investigations and increase the likelihood of successful prosecutions.

Earlier this year, it was also announced that an extra 100 specialist investigators will be allocated to the National Crime Agency (NCA) as part of efforts to curb Channel crossings.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister said during a visit to Rome that he is “very interested” in Italy’s efforts to curb levels of irregular immigration.

The “dramatic reductions” in the number of migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea into Italy is something the Government wants to understand, he added, amid Labour’s efforts to crack down on criminal gangs involved in people smuggling.

But border and security minister Dame Angela Eagle said his meeting with the Italian Prime Minister should not be seen as an endorsement of all her immigration policies, telling Sky News: “But we are meeting a G7 country and a fellow Nato member to see how we can co-operate across border to deal with some of these vile people smuggling gangs.”

The UK will see whether Italian plans to process asylum seekers in Albania works before deciding whether to pursue a similar policy, she suggested.

“Firstly we don’t know whether it will work yet, because it hasn’t started. Much of this has been portrayed currently as if it’s already a success but the fact is that it hasn’t started.

“We will see how it works. But what we have said is that any scheme that we deal with for offshore processing or anything else has to be workable, it has to be cost-effective, and it also has to be in line with international law,” she told Times Radio.

The latest deaths in the Channel came as more than 1,000 made the journey over the weekend.

The French coastguard said 53 migrants were on board a boat which crashed into rocks overnight on Saturday into Sunday off the coast of Ambleteuse in the Pas-de-Calais region of northern France.

Most of the group were rescued, with six people including a 10-month-old baby who had hypothermia taken to hospital, but eight men died.

More than 200 people were rescued from the Channel in a 24-hour period between Friday to Saturday, according to the French coastguard.

The tragedy is less than two weeks after another boat was ripped apart as it made its way across the Channel, claiming the lives of 12 people including a pregnant woman and six children.

Downing Street said the Government was tackling the crossings “on all fronts” and “immediate work has been taking place”.

This includes “starting to process asylum cases again where people have been sat in hotels without their cases being looked at” and 3,000 migrants being returned over the summer, a spokeswoman added.

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