Our First Impression
Sure it's value-driven, but the SunDeck 237 from Hurricane
is far from ordinary. It's a true deck boat meaning it's wide in the bow, all
the way to the back, with quick planing, and a shallow draft; plus it's nice
and stable. We love this attractive and sporty-looking offering from Hurricane
and we couldn't wait to take her for a ride.
Consumer Test
We feel the most comfortable seat onboard should be for the
captain, and on this boat it doesn't get any better than the double-wide helm
seat. Complete with a flip-up bolster, the adjustable chair even has a storage
compartment built in below that is ideal for wallets and keys.
Other features worth noting include a sink and washdown
behind the helm seat with storage below, fore and aft telescoping ladders, a large
swim deck and a changing room opposite of the helm. Inside the changing enclosure
is a vented window, electric faucet and sink and room for an optional toilet.
If we had to be picky, the changing room, at roughly 3 1/2 feet tall, isn't
overly big, although it is plenty roomy for most children.
At the helm is a sporty console with easy-to-read gauges,
well-labeled rocker switches and an overall attractive design. The optional
Sony stereo upgrade unit is below the throttle, which keeps it protected from
the elements, but it does make it harder to operate while underway. Other
options include the snap-in carpet, which helps give the boat a more inviting
look and feel, stainless rub rails and the large swim deck. The rest of the
features are all part of the standard package, including the ski/tow eye,
wrap-around windshield and entertainment center.
Inspection Test
Hurricane builds its boats with what they call a Category 5
hull. This design features a widebody hull that is the same width bow to stern,
along with lifting strakes, a shallow draft, and generous reverse chine hull,
all of which enhance the overall comfort level of the ride. Below deck, the gel
coat work was very consistent with no dull spots.
Above deck there is over 13 feet of usable deck space inside
the cockpit, and we love the self-bailing design. Below the slip-out seat
cushions the storage compartments are all well-finished with liners and an
average amount of storage space. The in-floor lockable storage is perfect for
skis and wakeboards because of its extra long and plenty deep design.
Gaining access to the engine is simple, and there is plenty
of room to actually work on the I/O if needed, plus we like the sound-dampening
insulations in the engine compartment as well. Overall, the boat earned high
marks for craftsmanship, fit and finish work and overall design.
Performance Test
With the MerCruiser 5.0 MPI Bravo 3 engine, this SunDeck is quite a
thrill ride. She is very quick with very smooth and predictable handling. In
fact, with the responsive steering, this deck boat would benefit from a
wakeboard tower. This Hurricane is a fun boat to drive, easy to
handle and we always felt like we were in control with this hull.
Who Should Buy It
Sure to put a smile on your face, this is a great
family-friendly boat that is priced well, with solid craftsmanship and has
plenty to offer the couple or family that is looking for a fun boat to enjoy.
Number of Occupants: 10
Maximum Speed: 45.8
mph
Wild Ponies: 260hp
No. of Gates: 1
0-20 MPH: 5.5
seconds
Ladder Measurement: 3'
6" deep
Why we love this boat.The overall
attractive and inviting layout can only be overshadowed by the solid design and
quality craftsmanship.
Just being picky.We love the features in the changing room
like the electric faucet and sink, vented window, etc. We just wish the enclosure
itself was a little larger.
NOTABLE STANDARDS
Color-coordinated
canopy, stainless steel canopy, GX48 expanded vinyl, entertainment center,
sink, pressurized water system, extra storage, bow and stern telescoping
ladders, ski/tow eye, power-assisted steering w/tilt wheel, full wrap-around
windshield and a 25-quart carry-on cooler.
OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT
Sony
stereo upgrade (CD XM30 w/ MP3 & four speakers), stainless steel rub rail,
full swim platform and snap-in carpet.
VITAL STATS
LOA 20'
10"
Beam 8'
6"
Hull
Design Fiberglass
Dry Weight 4,205
lbs.
Fuel Capacity 52
Gallons
TEST DRIVE
Engine MerCruiser 5.0 MPI Bravo 3
Cylinder Type V8
Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower 305ci/260hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio 2.20:1
Propeller NA
RPM vs. SPEED
vs. DB-A
500 3.2 mph 81.5
1000 5.3
mph 88.5
1500 7.5
mph 85
2000 8.8
mph 87.5
2500 14.0
mph 95
3000 22.3
mph 104.5
3500 28.4
mph 110
4000 34.0
mph 114
4500 39.0
mph 117.5
5000 43.5
mph 118
5500 45.8
mph 119.5
Elkhart, Ind.
Phone: 574-522-8381
Website: www.hurricaneboats.com
