The only aluminum monohull to make an appearance at our test rally, the Crestliner boats are all welded- no rivets whatsoever. The resulting lower weight allows the use of a smaller, more economical outboard engine, which decreases fuel consumption, increases speed and acceleration, and lowers the bottom-line price. And, the weight difference between the Crestliner boats and a comparable fiberglass boat is 300 to 500 pounds, so a smaller vehicle can tow the boat.
Description
The Crestliner boats has a modified deep-V hull with 17 degrees deadrise aft and a small keel pad. Besides the exterior hull, all inner structures are welded, too- welded well enough for motor boat to warranty the entire hull for 20 years.
The hull graphics showed up in good shape after a long over-land raid because of the way Crestliner finishes its aluminum hulls. First, the raw aluminum is degreased and cleaned in an acid bath. Then it is given a primer bath, after which the finish is baked at over 400℉.
Crestliner 216 Eagle – aluminum boats
The Crestliner 216 Eagle has a special, patented outboard bracket/transom extension arrangement Crestliner calls SST. SST is said to improve acceleration, running trim, and utility in a number of ways. When the motor boat is being pushed up on plane the increased leverage exerted by the engine being farther aft reduces bow-rise and shortens time to plane. Further, while the boat is running and trimmed properly, wetted surface is said to be reduced.
The solid transom’s deep stowage provides space for batteries, oil reservoirs, and a good amount of gear. Ample stowage is also provided in every nook and cranny in the cuddy cabin. Shelves, under-berth stowage, portable head compartment, and rod racks maximize space. Two people can easily bunk on the berths, even without the standard filler cushion.
She swims like a fish – new image of Crestliner boats
The helm station and passenger seat have fore-to-aft adjustable seats and plenty of legroom. At the foot of the passenger’s side a locking tackle tray is built into the side. A standard maxima stereo is on the helmsman’s side, as are well-arranged gauges and engine controls.
Forward is a pulpit with anchor roller and, equally importand, a built-in anchor rode locker. A sturdy stainless steel rail keeps you feeling secure during foredeck work from the time you step out past the aft edge of the deckhouse. A removable cushion provides comfort when the only foredeck work is working on your tan. Fisherman will appreciate the flip-up stowage locker in the transom covering board and twin aerated baitwells on crestliner boats.
Out on open water, our radar gun showed a top speed of 47 mph while burning about 15 gph. At power-up, with the engine tucked all the way in you can plane her with virually no loss of visibility.
The SST does require a wider-than-normal turning radius, and around the dock, the Crestliner 216 Eagle seemed susceptible to crosswinds because of her height. We towed the boat to the Uddjaure lake to Sweden.
To sum up, at just over $17,000, the motor boat we tested looked and behaved like a great fishing platform. Also it seemed ideal as a weekend day cruiser for a growing budget-conscious family.
You must be logged in to post a review.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.