Boy, there’s a lot going on in that one enquiry. Let’s step back and consider our answer as we also reflect on the Hurricane SunDeck 2486 OB, a brand-new model from the deck boat gurus at Nautic Global Group.
First, Tony was right about one thing: Deck boats are practical and make a great choice for families. The new 2486 OB, for example, can accommodate up to 14 people and comes with a built-in wet bar, 25-quart cooler, removable table, enclosed head compartment (alas, the Porta Potti is extra) and bimini top — all of which go a long way toward keeping your crew happily fed and sheltered during a day on the water.
Gel-coated fiberglass storage tubs found under the many seats and in the floor can hold the requisite fenders, lines, towels, tubes, skis, snorkels, swim fins, sunscreen, hats, changes of clothes (you get the picture) and are also easy to clean up. So, family friendliness and practicality: check.
The versatility of these boats comes from their equipment as well from their distinct design features. And, no, a deck boat is not “just a bigger bowrider.” Most deck boats carry their beam farther forward than a bowrider, meaning the forward area is wider, deeper and less “pointy.” The result is added space, a more secure ride due to higher coaming and (in most cases) a convenient bow entry point.
The SunDeck 2486 OB has a broad bow “playpen” with wraparound cushions and leads to a sizeable swim platform at the nose. Hidden safely away from toes and fingers, a telescoping ladder here makes getting to and from the beach or water much simpler. Likewise, an anchor locker and anchor ease storage of and access to the ground tackle.
Hurricane’s designers incorporated a clever system leading to and from the bow swim platform that converts a backrest and seat base into a sturdy step to make traffic flow easier — on the passenger as well as the boat’s upholstery. There’s a similar setup at the stern, where the “stow and cruise” seating leads to a full-width swim platform with twin aft-facing benches overlooking the water.
The SunDeck 2486 OB also allows owners to enhance the boat’s versatility through option packages — Fishing, Premium, Preferred and Xtreme — so you can rig your ride for how you intend to use it. Some of the individual highlights include a livewell with pump, trolling motor harness and plug, pedestal-mounted fishing chair, wakeboard tower, ski tow bar, swim platform mat, and custom hull graphics and decals.
As for the perception that deck boats aren’t “cool,” well, 10 years ago I might’ve acquiesced. But today’s sporty models are harder and harder to distinguish from their bowrider counterparts. Just eye the sporty tilt wheel at the ergonomic helm of the SunDeck 2486 OB to see what I mean. This is no barebones dash with a flimsy windscreen. A full walk-through windshield protects a full spread of multi-gauges and available electronics.
And thanks to the high-powered push provided by an outboard rated from 200 to 300 horsepower, you’ll look plenty cool as you zip past the other boats on the lake. So, Tony, while the deck boat may have its ill-informed haters, there’s no need for you to be one of them.
Hurricane SunDeck 2486 OB
LOA: 24’
Beam: 8’6”
Draft (drive up): 1’2”
Dry Weight: 3,800 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 66 gals.
Base Price: $72,247
www.hurricaneboats.com
