Showing posts with label Formula. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Formula. Show all posts

March 19, 2023

Formula New Web Site

Formula Boats presents its new website virtual World wide showroom. The story of this famous builder starts with the founding of Thunderbird by Woodie Woodson in 1956, Duo. Inc in 1958 by Victor Porter in Indiana, and the original Don Aronow Formula in 1962 and the launch of the 233 in the same year.  The Aronow Formula 233 is still as at today regarded as a history making model for Offshore racing, and the Deep Vee hull. These three protagonist of the time; Thunderbird, Porter and Formula finally become one in 1973. and the current Formula set up continues as at today thanks to the Porter legacy who take full hold of the company in 1976.  Other important steps in the history of Formula are the appointment of John Adams as designer in 1971, who as at today is still leading design of all models.  Competitions have also been a trademark of Formula and the brand, excluding the milestone that was the 233 in the sixties, has the following recent heritage; 1986 a 302 SR-1 wins B-Class Southeast Divisional Championship and sets a new UIM record, 2001 and 2002 winners of Mercury constructors cup, 2003 World and National Offshore Champions, and in 2006 U-7 Formula Unlimited Hydroplane takes first in ABRA National High Points. Formula also took the following awards for its products; 2004 370 Super Sport wins Powerboat Sport Cruiser of the Year followed a year later with the 400 Super Sport, and in 2006 240 Bowrider earns Powerboat Magazine Boat of the Year.  Located in Decatur, Indiana in an 85 thousand square foot facility updated in 2006, today Formula builds fourteen models in six lines; Bowrider, Crossover Bowrider, Super Sport Crossover, All Sport Crossover, Center Console, and Sun Sport.   The entry level Formula is the 240 Bowrider and 240 Sun Sport, and the current flagship is the 500 Super Sport Crossover. Formula new website takes you around with the following buttons; Models, Dealers, Build, Preowned, Virtual Boat Show, Owners Resources, About, Blog, Build A Boat, Find A Dealer, and Contact Us. The new web site also features links to Formula's social media pages; Instagram, Tweeter, Facebook and Youtube at the bottom.

October 24, 2021

Victor B Porter 1931 - 2021

Victor B. Porter, Chairman Emeritus of Formula Boats/Thunderbird Products, Decatur, Indiana, passed away Sunday, October 24, 2021. He was born February 3, 1931, and on June 1, 1950, he married Kristine Striker, his bride of 71 years. Vic Porter spent over sixty years in the boating industry. From small-town beginnings to larger-than-life reality, Vic’s story is truly the American dream.  Vic Porter’s early career ventures included mobile homes sales, real estate, and his own business, Vic’s Frozen Food Center and Center Ice Cream. An entrepreneur at heart, Vic felt the urge to start down a new path, and in 1958, that decision led him to his place in the marine industry today. Interesting developments followed each move Vic made throughout the past 60-plus years.  In 1958, Vic started a boat company, Duo, Inc., to manufacture fiberglass boats in his converted ice cream plant with three employees. His first model, the Volare, was a catamaran equipped with two outboard motors. In 1959, the hundredth boat was built, and the Hepcat, a trimaran, was introduced. Vic was president, and also doubled as sales manager. The following three years, Vic developed the Catfish and monohull runabout design X-Series and F-Series boats. By 1962, Duo Inc. was booming. Vic now had 30 employees who built 20 boats per week. Business continued to expand in a new 18,000-square-foot facility with plans to double capacity. In 1962, Vic developed a V-hull boat series for a better ride. 1964 marked Vic’s first million-dollar year, and in 1965 the plant grew to 100,000 square feet and employed 185 people. 1966 was a whirlwind year and Vic travelled nonstop for a month, visiting 21 cities and numerous dealers to promote and sell his product. Duo, Inc. caught the eye of Starcraft Corporation, a larger, regional boat company, and in 1966 Vic sold Duo, remaining for a time as president. Vic’s entrepreneurial urge surfaced again, and he decided to captain a new ship in 1970.  Signa Corporation was the next step in Vic’s developing career. Manufacturing tri-hull boats in a 20,000-square-foot facility with 50 employees, it wasn’t long before Vic’s second successful boat company attracted the attention of investors. In 1973, Fuqua Industries purchased Signa Corporation. Fuqua had previously purchased Thunderbird Products and Formula Boats in 1969. Vic was named chairman of the small boat group, with $3 million in sales reported that year. Fuqua Industries manufactured the three small boat lines, including both Signa tri-hulls and Formula deep-V hull boats, through 1975.  Once again, Vic felt the need to head up a company all his own, and took advantage of the opportunity created by an energy crisis. In 1976, Vic purchased the small boat group from Fuqua Industries. Vic continued the company as Thunderbird Products, manufacturing the Signa and Formula boat lines. In 1979, Signa tri-hull production was ended, as market advancement indicated heavy preference for the deep-V hull Formula boats. The same year marked Thunderbird Products’ introduction of the Formula 302, a special edition offshore performance boat. In every direction, Vic led the company, creativity prevailed and successful innovation followed.  Vic made it a point during his boating career to be involved in the best interests of the industry. He was active in the BIA when it merged with the NAEBM to become the NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association) in 1979. During his years at Signa and at Thunderbird/Formula, Vic served both the BIA and the NMMA in various board positions.  In 1980, integrated, continuous cockpit liners improved both structure and design flow. 1982 marked Formula’s first use of Imron® hull graphics. In 1984, as an industry first, Thunderbird Products innovated and installed curved, tempered glass windshields. Also that year, the Silent Thunder exhaust system was introduced. In 1988, a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility was completed — 345,000 square feet to manufacture the highest quality powerboats possible with a dedicated workforce of 600 employees. From facility additions to the development of new boat lines – Sun Sports in 1994, FAS³Techs in 1997, Super Sports in 1999, Yachts in 2002, Crossovers in 2012, and the Flagship of the Formula lineup, the 500 Super Sport Crossover in 2021 Vic led the company with imagination and integrity into a model business manufacturing today’s prestigious Formula Boats. Vic was often seen in the manufacturing area and in the office. Vic’s entrepreneurial spirit took him, his family and his business to places he only imagined.  Vic remained happily married to his wife of 71 years, Kristine. Together they have six children, five of whom are actively involved in the Formula Boats business. Vic and Kris have 17 grandchildren, and over the years have seen interest in the company flow into the third generation; six grandchildren full time and a fourth generation employed as summer help. Vic and Kris have also been blessed with 19 great-grandchildren.  Vic appreciated the support of his community, family and employees throughout his life, and responded with personal involvement. Over the years he served with a number of organizations in various capacities such as the local Chamber of Commerce, including serving as president, in many areas with his church, area Boy Scouts, and helping spearhead the development and funding of Decatur’s Industrial Park. Vic was Adams County’s Republican Party chairman from 1973-1975, and was on the board of directors of the county hospital. In earlier years he was a volunteer fireman and helped coordinate a high school drug awareness program. He also served on the board of directors of Indiana Central College, the Cole Foundation Board and on various committees of the National Marine Manufacturers Association. The Porter Family Foundation provides philanthropic funding to local schools, churches and charities and provided the seed money for the formation of Woodcrest, a local not-for-profit retirement community. The Foundation donated the land for the new hospital in Decatur, as well as aiding substantially in funding an oncology center. He and Kristine also established an ongoing fund through the Adams County Community Foundation to benefit community projects. Over the years, Vic Porter’s service and entrepreneurial spirit gained recognition. In 1964, Vic received the Outstanding Young Businessman Award from the Decatur Chamber of Commerce, and in 1990, Vic was a finalist for the Indiana Entrepreneur of the Year Award and was that year’s recipient of the Spirit of Entrepreneurship Award, recognizing his outstanding involvement and contributions in his community and state. In 1994, the board of directors of Woodcrest chose the Porter name for the auditorium there, and in 1997, Vic was awarded the Stephen Decatur Community Service Award. In 2000, Thunderbird earned the Large Business of the Year Award. In 2012, Vic was inducted into Junior Achievement's Greater Fort Wayne Business Hall of Fame.  2016 marked the celebration of Indiana's 200th birthday. Vic was honored for his community involvement and contributions and was asked to participate in the monumental event. He was chosen to be a torchbearer for the Indiana Bicentenial Torch Relay, was held from September 9 through October 15. 2,200 torchbearers represented all 92 Indiana counties. Vic carried the torch by boat for 1/3 mile through Decatur.  October 16, 2016 marked Vic's induction to the NMMA Hall of Fame. The National Marine Manufacturers Association Hall of Fame was established in 1988 to recognize and honor individuals who have made or continue to make substantial contributions towards the advancement of the marine Industry. One has to be nominated and meet criteria that take many decades of dedication, effort and passion for the industry. Vic had clearly demonstrated a lifetime love for boating and striving to advance the industry.  As gratifying as all this is, his greatest satisfaction surely was that his family is carrying on in full accord with his example of living and giving, as well as continuing the business with the same values and goals he established.   His goal was to build a viable, Decatur-based, boat manufacturing company, and from the looks of it, mission accomplished. From small-town beginnings to the personally fulfilling present, Vic spent his time well, as proven by his business success and family following.

October 30, 2019

New Model: Formula 380 Super Sport Crossover

Formula present the new 380 SSC, which continues the American builder open-bow, full-cabin Crossover legacy, now six models strong, from the 330 CBR to the 430 SSC/ASC.  The 380 Super Sport Crossover bloodline is evident in its SmartZone design that utilizes every space for a variety of entertainment possibilities. The single level deck offers a seamless transition to the bow from the full-width hardtop with top-to-bottom windshield and exclusive sliding bow window. Triple command seating, two distinct lounge areas aft plus the outdoor kitchen bring the full Formula experience, from exhilarating ride to easy conversation. For relaxing at the sandbar or cove, head aft to the convertible rear-facing sun lounge and available hydraulic or stationary extended swim platform with available platform entertainment table.  The 380 Super Sport Crossover cabin provides a completely residential experience with convertible dinette to sleeping berth plus aft stateroom bed, stand-up head compartment and lower kitchen with sink and microwave.  The 380 Super Sport Crossover incorporates FAS3Tech multi-step hull technology with a molded structural grid to deliver the sure-footed performance that is a Formula hallmark. 
Technical Data:
LOA - 12.37 m (40.7ft) with extended bathing platform
LOA - 11.58 m (38ft) without extended bathing platform
Beam - 3.50 m
Draft - 1.04 m
Displacement - 9616 kg
Fuel Capacity - 946 l
Water Capacity - 162 l
Accommodation - two plus two berths
Engines - 2 x Mercruise 8.2l Mag 430hp, Mercury Racing 520hp 
Propulsion - Mercruiser Bravo III dual propeller stern drive
Hull Shape - deep Vee with 21 degrees deadrise aft
Certification - NMMA

May 17, 2019

Project: Formula 380 Super Sport Crossover

Formula present the project for the 380 Super Sport Crossover, that continues the US builder open-bow, full-cabin crossover legacy, now six models strong, from the 330 CBR to the 430 SSC/ASC.  The 380’s bloodline is evident in its SmartZone design that utilizes every square inch for a variety of entertainment possibilities. The single level deck offers a seamless transition to the bow from the full-width hardtop with top-to-bottom windshield and exclusive sliding bow window. Triple command seating, two distinct lounge areas aft plus the outdoor kitchen bring a full boating experience, from exhilarating ride to easy conversation. For relaxing at the sandbar or cove, head aft to the convertible rear-facing sun lounge and available hydraulic or stationary extended Water Sport swim platform.  The 380 Super Sport Crossover cabin provides a completely residential experience with convertible dinette/sleeping berth plus aft stateroom bed, stand-up head compartment and lower kitchen with sink and microwave.  The 380 SSC incorporates FAS3Tech multi-step 21 degrees deadrise deep Vee hull technology with a molded structural grid to deliver the sure-footed performance that is a Formula hallmark.  The Formula 380 Super Sport Crossover will be powered by standard twin Mercruiser 430hp or optional 520hp engines, in gas petrol and stern drive propulsion.  

October 28, 2016

New Model: Formula 330 Crossover Bowrider

Formula expands its Crossover Bowrider range with the introduction of the 330 model sitting alongside the well received 350.  Formula Crossover Bowrider range is aimed at the day boat user, with the bonus of an overnight twin berth cabin below deck.  The Formula 330 Crossover Bowrider continues the North American builder fame of building fast boats, with twin Mercruiser 380hp allowing top speeds up to 46 knots.
Technical Data:
LOA - 10.54 m (34.7ft)
Hull Length - 10 m
Beam - 3.12 m
Draft - 0.89 m
Displacement - 5556 kg
Fuel Capacity - 571 l
Water Capacity - 94 l
Accommodation - two berths 
Engines - 2 x Mercruiser 8.2 ECT 380hp
Propulsion - Mercruiser Bravo 3 dual prop stern drives
Speed - 46 knots max, 36 knots cruise, 25 knots economic cruise
Hull Shape - Planning Vee with 21 degrees deadrise  
Certification - NMMA

December 10, 2012

New Model: Formula 350 Crossover Bowrider

Formula presents the 350 Crossover Bowrider, new flagship of the open fore deck line from the US builder which starts at 24 feet and with this latest entry features six model. Conceived by since long time Formula head designed John Adams at 35 feet the new Crossover Bowrider presents itself with a trend coming from the US, who recently offer a cabin together with a full deck space environment for 30 feet plus full deck open boats.  The 350 Crossover Bowrider shares hull with the same designated Supersport model and along a full deck space offering endless seating and sun pad ares to the full length of the sport cruiser model, it also offers a lower deck sleeping four including a galley and a head.  Interesting the space offered is more to that of some other performance orientated boats of the same size.  Power is from four engine choices; three Mercruiser and one Volvo and starts at 320 and go up to 430hp. 
Technical Data:
LOA - 10.67 m (35ft)
Beam - 3.28 m
Draft - 0.99 m
Displacement - 6109 kg
Fuel Capacity - 651 l
Water Capacity - 113 l
Accommodation - 4 berths
Engines - 2 x Mercruiser 377Mag ECT 320hp, 8.2 Mag ECT 380hp, 8.2 Mag High Output 430hp, Volvo V8 CE 380hp
Propulsion - Mercruise Bravo Three or Volvo DP dual propeller stern drive
Hull Type - deep Vee 21 degrees dead rise
Construction - Imron graphics, Perma-panel structural hull matrix, foam full hull cavities
Project - John Adams
Certification - NMMA Yacht

June 5, 2012

New Model: Formula 400 FX8

Launched at the past 2012 Miami boat show is the Formula 400 FX8, the latest model and flagship of the high profile seven models FX range.  The FX8 is indeed an evolution of the 400 Super Sport models with high performing engines of standard twin 430 or optional 525hp Mercruiser gas petrol as its choices.  Aggressive paint job, furnishing outside, come also with the FX package.  Down below accommodation in the 400 FX8 sleep four; in a convertible U-shaped dinette to fore, and a double berth to midships. In between the two sleeping areas is a galley, and a separate shower head.  The aft cockpit deck offers a large U-shaped settee as its main relaxing hub, which is served opposite by a wet bar, and an aft sun lounger.  Other interesting details are center windscreen walkway , and the option as is available for the Super Sport of a hard top. 
Technical Data:
LOA - 12.65 m (41.6ft)
Beam - 3.35 m
Draft - 0.91 m
Displacement - 7756 kg
Fuel Capacity - 946 l
Water Capacity - 189 l
Accommodation - 2 + 2 berths
Engines - 2 x Mercruiser 8.2 Mag High Output EXT 430hp, 525 EFI 525hp
Propulsion - Mercruiser Bravo Three XR, XR TS stern drives
Hull Type - deep Vee with 22 degrees deadrise
Certification - NMMA

May 9, 2012

New Model: Formula 350 FX6

Formula continues its presentation of the FX range, which is a more up market dressed other model from this renowned US performance boat builder.  The 350 FX6 in fact is a sleeker more aggressive looking Sun Sport model of the same digits.  So what you get with the FX series is a nicer paint work able to turn eyes everywhere, and more racing add on features from the throttles to the gauges to keep you on check on the helm.  FX models and the 6 in particular are also presented with the top tier engines from waht the listing of a 350 Sun Sport offers, matching up the aggressive looks.  The 350 FX6 also offers more luxurious inside, with was usually an extra coming standard in the sleeping four, plus galley, and shower head interior.  Power is from twin Mercruiser 430hp with stern drive propulsion.
Technical Data:
LOA - 10.67 m (35ft)
Beam - 3.28 m
Draft - 0.99 m
Displacement - 6109 kg
Fuel Capacity - 651 l
Water Capacity - 113 l
Accommodation - 2 + 2 berths
Engines - 2 x Mercruiser 8.2 Mag High Output ECT 430hp
Propulsion - Bravo Three X DTS stern drive with dual propeller 
Hull Type - deep Vee with 21 degrees dead rise aft
Certification - NMMA

February 9, 2011

New Model: Formula 310 FX5

Formula launch the 310 FX5, with official presentation coming in February at the Miami show. This new model is the second in the upmarket FX range, which is based on the three models of the Sun Sport line. The 310 FX5 is in fact a 310 Sun Sport dressed in more luxurious clothes, and more powerful engines. Everything in the FX5 is in fact up market from the spray outside here in hull one being in silver grey, to the cockpit upholstery, helm station, and the interior of the cabin. Power is also an only choice of the top unit of the 310 being twin Mercruiser Petrol gas of 380hp each.
Technical Data:
LOA - 9.45 m (31ft)
Beam - 2.90 m
Draft - 0.94 m
Displacement - 4423 kg
Fuel Capacity - 492 l
Water Capacity - 110 l
Accommodation - 2 berths
Engines - 2 x Mercruiser 8.2 Mag EC
Propulsion - Mercruiser Bravo Three X dual propeller stern drive
Hull Shape - deep Vee 22 degrees dead rise
Certification - NMMA
www.formulaboats.com

December 2, 2010

Project: Formula 310 FX5

Formula presents the project of the 310 FX5. Second in the new FX series line, which is based on models from the Sun Sport series, the 310 FX5 follows what we have seen in the middle of the year launched 290 FX4, meaning new metallic painting, revamped stylish graphics, and upgraded performance fit out. The 310 FX5 builds on the similar plan of the Sun Sport version with a cabin having a Vee-shaped settee, galley, and shower head below. The aft deck is a C-shaped settee, dual seat helm station, wet bar, and convertible expandable sun lounger to aft. As the FX4 expect exclusive luxury and performance fittings in all areas here. Power will be twin high performance Mercruiser 380hp petrol gas engines.
www.formulaboats.com

July 2, 2010

New Model: Formula 290 FX4

Formula present a new range created by exclusive designer John Adams, with the first of the FX series debuting Friday, June 11th. Model one for this new range the 290 FX4 was shown at Formula's Northeast Showroom in Freeport, New York. This revolutionary new concept in sport boating is a unique melding of the highly successful Sun Sport design with the performance focused FAS3TECH image, creating a synergy of on water usability with upscale excitement. The FX series will include also 310 FX5 and 350 FX6 in the near future. There are many exciting items powering the new FX4 like unique Imron outside color blend, plenty of LED lighting outside and inside, unique Corsa side exhaust, and Livorsi engine gauges. Power for this two berth Sport Cruiser Powerboat mash up will be top range Mercruiser 377 engines, which as the 290 Sun Sport should be good for about 50 knots or 58 mph.
Technical Data:
LOA - 8.84 m (29ft)
Beam - 2.74 m
Draft - 1.02 m
Displacement - 4060 kg
Fuel Capacity - 462 l
Water Capacity - 79 l
Accommodation - 2 berths
Engines - 2 x Mercruiser 377 Magnum EC 320hp
Propulsion - Mercruiser Bravo Three dual prop stern drive
Hull Shape - deep Vee with 22 degrees deadrise
Speed - 50 knots max
Project - John Adams
Certification - NMMA
www.formulaboats.com

June 3, 2010

Improve-it = Formula 400 Super Sport

Formula has recently launched the first version of its 400 Super Sport featuring Volvo's stern drive joystick. This improved 400 Super Sport was the first stern drive Formula featuring the joystick option, which makes marina manoeuvring easier to the standard practices of twin stern drive engines and bow thruster. It is also the first to use the Volvo joystick in combination with the largest diesel engine option of twin D6 370hp. This option adds easy to drive combination to the 400 Super Sport list of features. The 400 Super Sport has a lower deck with forward vee saloon which converts to a double berth, galley, shower head, and a mid ship located double berth. The main deck features a spacious area with an aft sun pad, C-shaped settee, wet bar, and dual seat driving position. As is its sports heritage the 400 Super Sport has a two stepped hull with a deep Vee of 22 degrees deadrise aft, which with the twin 370hp options gives a 40 knots top speed.

August 25, 2009

Improve-it = Formula 45 Yacht

Formula 45 Yacht get a new up scaled look to its interior. Formula's flagship featuring already a designer Ralph Lauren cabin décor package gets improved and upgraded further, with a completely new cabinetry, Corian, flooring and doors which lend to a more luxurious feel to the beautiful Ralph Lauren fabric choices of Coastal and Mystic Cove. The 45 Yacht is the current biggest model in the Formula line up and offers a twin cabin en-suited interior. Power is from twin Volvo IPS600 435hp each.

July 22, 2009

Boat Review: Formula 290 Sun Sport

Presentation
Formula's 290 Sun Sport, is the latest new model to be launched by this legendary US builder founded in 1956 and always a hot name when it comes to fast and sea worthy boats. The Sun Sport is one of six ranges which offer a total of twenty two boat models from Formula, and is an interesting concept offering aggressive sleek powerboat looks united with additional cruising comfort. If you think the Sun Sport concept is new for Formula, think again! As the first Sun Sport, the 242 was launched in 1983. The 290 Sun Sport is the latest addition to this range, launching in January this year and being presented officially to the general public during the Miami boat show. If you like high performance and want a quality ride, but also want generous accommodation with an exterior that shows comfort this surely should be one of your first stops. The 290 Sun Sport takes also many of the innovative cockpit seating ideas as seen on the bigger 310 transforming this area from lounge area to sun worshippers dream in minimum time.
Accommodation
The intelligent use of space without sacrificing low profiled sleek looks is the icing on the cake for the 290 Sun Sport. Once you get on board the extended bathing platform aft shows spaciousness in the cockpit offering comfort, and seating space associated with a bigger sized boat. Here one finds a nice center located two person sun lounger, followed by a spacious C-shaped settee, and the dual seated helm station both of which lie to the port side. To starboard opposite the c-shaped settee you will find a well sized wet bar, and a single person settee. For sun lovers both the aft sun pad and c-shaped settee, can transform and become one big lounge, making this place a nice sun worshippers paradise.
The lower deck entrance located centrally takes us to the overnight area which features a galley to port, fully equipped shower head opposite to starboard, and forward the vee shaped settee with central table which transforms to a spacious double berth for comfortable overnight stay. Performance
High speeds of over 50 knots have always been a trademark for this US manufacturer who did history in the past of powerboat racing, and still continues to do so. Designed by John Adams who joined Formula in 1971 and is their exclusive designer since that time, the 290 Sun Sport takes this heritage in its hull, with a pure deep vee hull offering a twenty two degrees dead rise calling for powerboat performance and being a reassuring cutter in the chop. The 290 Sun Sport is offered with four gas petrol engine options, standard power being a twin Mercruiser 350 Mag 5.7 litres 300hp each. Other options are a similar 5.7Gi 300hp Volvo, 5.7 GXi 320hp, and the most performing Mercruiser 377 Mag. Propulsion is Mercruiser Bravo Three stern drive, or Volvo DP all being offered with dual counter rotating propellers per drive. The slowest performer of these options is Volvo 5.7Gi giving a speed of 52-55 mph depending the load, with Mag 377 being the faster thanks to a bigger 6.2 litres block which will give you a speed range of 55-58 mph or 50 knots of max speed.
Positive
exterior wet bar with fridge freezer
settee sun pad conversion
Negative
no diesel fuel option
Competition
Offers in this size and style, come mostly from US and European builders. The difference from the continents can be felt with the Americans offering more sleek looks, and the European going for more bulky and high free board exteriors. The Formula together with the also US built Monterey surely stands out for low profile exterior looks, which gives a different meaning to luxury outside. Deep vee hulls of twenty or more degrees of dead rise seems also common in all the US builds here. Criteria for competition has been based for eight metres in over all length, a cabin with double vee berth, and enclosed head.
Airon 278 - head option, no galley, single twin petrol or diesel
Coronet 290 Sport - spacious cockpit with sun pad and settee, exterior galley
Mano 25 Sport - fore and aft sun pad, spacious interior galley
Marex 270 Estremo - wood finish, exterior galley, single engined
Monterey 278 SC Super Sport- close to Formula concept, up to twin 425hp
Performance 807 - various engines up to twin 500hp, fully customized
Sea Ray 290 Sun Sport - radar arch, three different cockpit plans
Windy 28 Ghibli - safety railing, single or twin engine choices
WILD CARD: Scarani 29 Day Cruiser - walk around, extra third berth
Conclusion
Standing at twenty nine feet the 290 Sun Sport is at the middle of this range from Formula, offering what is an interesting boat for first time buyers who want the speed and sea keeping associated with a fast boat but still not wanting to miss additional comfort for a weekend cruise. Formula also offers various color contours, plus additional equipment which can make the 290 Sun Sport a unique boat for each owner. The outside cockpit is surely a deal breaker alone, but associated with the comfort of the cabin below, additional extras which add superior live ability, and the deep vee ride of a Formula makes the 290 Sun Sport a high rated competitor in its style and size.
Technical Data
LOA. 8.84 metres (29ft)
Beam. 2.74 metres
Draft. 1.02 metres
Displacement. 4060 kg
Fuel Capacity. 416 litres
Water Capacity. 76 litres
Max Persons. 8
Accommodation. 2 berths in convertible berth
Engines. 2 x Mercruiser 350 Mag 300hp, 377 Mag 320hp, Volvo 5.7Gi 300hp, 5.7GXi 320hp
Propulsion. stern drive Mercruiser Bravo 3, Volvo DP
Speed. max 50 knots (58mph) with 377 Mag, 47 knots with Volvo 5.7Gi
Hull Shape. deep vee with twenty two degrees dead rise aft
Project. John Adams
Construction. GRP with density foam cored side and decks
Certification. NMMA
www.formulaboats.com
Picture Copyright Formula. Data Formula.

May 7, 2009

New Model: Formula 290 Sun Sport

A waited debut from Formula is the new 290 Sun Sport emboding a heritage of proven performance while embracing evolution of design with the 22° deadrise deep vee remaining the standard bottom ensuring solid handling in difficult water conditions. Formula 290 Sun Sport wants to offer the maximum of family fun in the sun with a nine foot beam giving spacious spaces outside and inside. The outside cockpit spaces offers dual individual adjustable helm seat for secure comfort for the captain and first mate, while aft we have the L-shaped lounge aft or the port side lounge, and an aft-facing sun lounge cleverly converts to a double-wide sunpad. The dual-height cockpit table can be set in the up position for snacks or a card game, or lowered to expand the U-shaped lounge into a large sunpad with the filler cushions. There is also an integrated wetbar with countertop, sink, trash container and available stainless-front refrigerator. Down below accommodation is a friendly environment finished with luxurious cherry wood grain finish and offering a vee shaped berth with central table, an entertainment center, and a private head compartment. Formula 290 Sun Sport can be customized with an extensive variety of available options, Imron graphic, décor selections, and wide engine choices from MerCruiser and Volvo which offer a range of power and speed to suit every boater.
Technical Data:
LOA - 8.84 m (29ft)
Beam - 2.74 m
Draft - 1.02 m
Displacement - 4060 kg
Fuel Capacity - 416 l
Water Capacity - 76 l
Engines - 2 x Volvo 5.7 GI, 5.7 GXI, Mercruiser 350 Mag, 377 Mag
Propulsion - Volvo DP stern drive, Mercruiser Bravo Three
Hull Shape - deep vee 22 degrees dead rise aft

April 9, 2009

Project: Formula 290 Sun Sport

US builder Formula presents its newest day cuddy cabin sport cruiser project, the 290 Sun Sport embodying the heritage of proven performance while embracing evolution of design. With a twenty two degrees deep vee deadrise aft, the new 290 SunSport continues Formula reassuring fast boat solid handling in demanding water conditions. Thanks to a nine feet beam the 290 Sun Sport will offer more then sees the eyes accommodation inside and out. Comfortable is the word here for the cabin below which has a double vee shaped berth, a head, and a small galley. In the outside deck the theme for space continues thanks to a nice c-shaped settee, a wet bar and a relaxing double seat to port of the double seated helm station. Twin stern drive petrol engine options from Mercruiser or Volvo power the 290 Sun Sport.

March 19, 2009

New Model: Formula 240 Sun Sport

The much anticipated Formula 240 Sun Sport made its debut at the 2009 Düsseldorf Boat Show in Germany. This new addition was a main attraction at the Formula display, offering big fun in a small package. John Adams, Formula’s exclusive designer, took the family favorite 240 Bowrider and included all the features one would desire in an entry level cabin boat. The 24o Sun Sport has a beam of 8´6˝ and a deadrise of 20°, resulting in a roomy cabin and a safe, smooth ride underway. The 240 Sun Sport cabin features a U-shaped forward double berth with filler cushion and custom-patterned carpet. A high-gloss Deep Cherry entertainment center with Corian surface and two polished stainless steel cup holders houses the hifi stereo. Music plays through two 150W two-way marine-grade speakers with polished stainless steel grilles. The head is concealed beneath the forward berth, and a hanging locker is standard for storage needs. The cabin is available in your choice of Morning Sand or Sapphire Blue décor, with custom pillows as standard. Single stern drive power, with 13 engine options from Volvo and Mercruiser starting from 5.0 litre up to the big 496 Magnum completes the package of the new entry level Sun Sport model.
Technical Data:
LOA - 7.32 m (24ft)
Beam - 2.59 m
Draft - 0.91 m
Weight - 2268 kg
Fuel Capacity - 227 l
Water Capacity - 38 l
Accommodation - 2 berths
Engines - 1 x Mercruiser 5.0 MPI/ 350 MAG/ 496 MAG
Hull shape - deep vee with twenty degrees dead rise aft
Project - John Adams Certification - NMMA