More of this Feature • Part 1: F225 • Part 2: F225 continued • Proline 27 Express • Specs • Acceleration Curve • F225 Photo Gallery
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Elsewhere on the Web • Yamaha Marine • Proline Boats

Pro-Line is building some pretty nice boats these days–all-glass with foam-cored transoms, as opposed to plywood-cored, and 10-year transferable hull warranties. The 27 Express we used to test our twin Yamaha F225s was one of three versions of the same hull form (center-consoles and walkarounds are also available), with a full galley on deck just forward of the helm, a bench-type lounge to port, and a cabin with V-berth, stowage lockers, and a head with portable MSD and stand-up shower. While the walkaround and center-console versions of the Express emphasize sportfishing more than on-deck entertainment, there are still plenty of angling essentials here, including a 35-gallon baitwell aft, a 50-gallon insulated fishbox on either side, rod racks, rod holders, a built-in tackle box, a raw-water washdown, and a transom door to pull the big ones onboard.

Driving the Express was fast, fingertip-control fun, thanks to the Yamahas’ rousing performance, Teleflex SeaStar hydraulic steering, and a nicely balanced hull. My only complaint? The distance between the steering console and the windshield, which is affixed on the trailing edge of the foredeck, reduces the effectiveness of the windshield at high speeds.

Pro-Line Boats Phone: (352) 795-4111. Fax: (352) 795-9373. www.prolineboats.com.

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