Streaker Boats releases Raptor jetboat

Victorian boatbuilder and retailer Streaker Boats

has released the Raptor, a small pocket rocket described in a Streaker media release as a “jet machine that will pin your ears back when you floor the throttle”.

The new boat is a 4.40m fibreglass hull that carries a 200hp Mercury OptiMax Sport Jet. It has a 2.10m beam and a full-width bolster seat for three, plus an upholstered forward lounge.

The exterior is fitted with what are said to be striking graphics that give it crisp, sharp lines, while the interior comprises a moulded-fibreglass interior covered in anti-skid material. At the driver’s position is a fully featured dash with a full set of engine monitoring gauges.

“If you want to run hard and fast on calm water, then this is the spirited jet boat for you,” said Leon Savage from Streaker Boats.

“While Streaker is renowned as the manufacturer of fishing boats, bowriders and runabouts, we decided that the boating world needed a serious injection of spirited fun. So we have unleashed the Raptor,” said Savage.

The drive position is set off with a sports steering wheel while to the right is a hand throttle that is said to deliver responsive power settings. As the Raptor is a jetdrive, the throttle shift also governs the reversing bucket.

Under the rear deck hatch is the Mercury OptiMax 200 V6 Sport Jet. Streaker says this model is the same OptiMax 200 that Mercury sells as an outboard, except that this engine drives a jetpump mounted directly underneath the hull. Driving the Raptor requires the use of a safety lanyard strap attached to one’s wrist.

“First off it’s a jet and handles like a jet; it’s different to a prop-driven boat,” says Streaker. “The second thought to flash through your brain will be the bucket loads of power available under your throttle hand. Even with half throttle applied, the speed is mounting and the water rushing past ever so quickly.”

According to Streaker, speeds in excess off 90kmh are easily attained.

“The Raptor is a sportsboat that appeals to anyone who likes to go fast across the water,” said Savage. “You can certainly get places quickly if that’s what you want to do, but you can also ski or use the Raptor as a very economical commuter for house boating or cruisers on lake systems.”

Specifications
Length: 4.4m
Beam: 2.10m
Deadrise: 21°
Weight: 510kg
Capacities: 4 people
Engine: OptiMax 200 V6 Sport Jet
RRP: $37,900 with Easytow trailer incl. Vic. registration and safety gear