TEST REVIEW: MAXUM 2100 SC3
Many boats can be described as having “a touch of class” about them, but the Maxum 2100 SC3 represents class personified. And like the other models in the Maxum range, this American boat’s design and practical layout leave nothing to be desired, and her finish is as good as it gets from a highly-polished mould.
SMOOTH JOB
These boats are built on a fibreglass stringer system and the hull top and bottom side are vacuum-formed, which gives the underside a finish as smooth as the outside, but without the lustre. This was clearly evident in the anchorwell, because its finish looks too good to have only ground tackle bouncing around in. Actually, the manufacturer has installed a pair of lugs here to hold the crossbar of a Danforth anchor, which will help preserve the gelcoat finish.
The expansive foredeck is low-profile and has a non-slip surface covering most of it. There’s a pair of stainless steel rails down each side of this deck, which are ideally positioned when securing watersport toys on the bow. These rails also act as grabrails for anyone sunbaking on the foredeck when the boat isn’t underway.
Between the two rails is a round opaque skylight-vent that freshens up the air in the cabin below. Access to the foredeck from the cockpit is via the centre-opening windscreen. The steps to get one out of the cockpit and over the dash are moulded into the sliding cabin door, which hides in a void behind the helm station when it’s open. Both sides of the windscreen are sturdy enough to act as handrails during a short journey.
ADJUSTABLE HELM
The adjustable steering wheel will suit those larger drivers, who find it difficult getting in and out of the skipper’s seat. But it also offers a level of elbow comfort for both tall and short skippers.
Soft tones around the dash area reduce any glare, while the artistic use of silver metal inserts give the helm a sporting look.
The helm and passenger swivel seats have fore and aft adjustments. They’re both fitted with bolster cushions, so the skipper can sit and drive with the steering wheel tilted up, looking over the windscreen for an uninterrupted view.
Behind the helm chair is a handy galley unit which features a sink with a freshwater tap, drinkholders and an Esky that slides into a rebate in the front of the unit. A dining table slots into the cockpit deck and, when not in use, stows under the lounge on the portside. This table has winged sides, so it’s a usable item that folds and stows easily.
UNDER THE SUN
Any vessel built to operate under the harsh Aussie sun needs a good bimini and the entire aft cockpit of this Maxum is well shaded by the one fitted to this boat. Plus, the way the bimini stows is so simple, it’s brilliant.
The batteries are located under the rear lounge and are easy to get at. One section of this lounge’s backrest also lifts out to access the transom walkthrough. Once out on the swim-out platform, the telescopic stainless steel ladder can be lowered from its locker to aid getting in and out of the water.
Two wet-gear compartments are built into the Maxum. One is in the deck between helm and passenger’s seats and the other is in a locker on the outer side of the transom.
If you need to go to the loo you will find it in the cabin, tucked under the overhanging cockpit deck. The portable loo slides in and out on a rack as required.
There’s not much headroom in the cabin, but it’s sufficient for ablutions and for a nap if overnighting. There is some
storage under the plush cabin cushions and in the sidepockets around each wall.
GET UP AND GO
Under throttle, with two adults onboard and no skier out the back, the boat’s holeshot ability was reasonable, but if you were towing a skier it may pay to look for a more suitable propeller than the 21in prop fitted to the test boat. But even so, the Maxum had a cruise speed of 35kts and a top speed of 46kts.
If you like to do your boating in the lap of luxury, this Maxum is for you. Her steering is little and hard turns are a breeze. And speaking of hard turns, she heels over well in turns, making all the occupants feel safe and sound seated within her hull.
Plus, for a big V8, the team was impressed at just how quiet this boat ran at all throttle settings.
WHAT WE LIKED
Finish is impeccable
Brilliant design
NOT SO MUCH
Tried hard to find fault here
but could not!
SPECIFICATIONS
HOW MUCH?
Price as tested:
$86,000
Options fitted:
nil
GENERAL
Type:
Monohull
Material:
Armour Flex gelcoat
Length:
6.88m
Beam:
2.51m
Weight:
1580kg (hull only)
CAPACITIES
Fuel:
208lt
People:
Nine
ENGINE
Make/model:
MerCruiser
350 Magnum
Type:
V8 petrol
Rated HP:
300hp
Displacement:
5.7lt
Leg:
Alpha
Propeller:
21in alloy
SUPPLIED BY
Avante Marine Gold Coast,
Mariners Cove,
Main Beach, 4218, Qld
Website: www.berowrawaterswholesale.com.au
Phone: 1800 802 444
First published in TrailerBoat #246
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