STACER 679 OCEAN RANGER HARDTOP
Hardtops on trailerboats are all the rage right now
Unless you’ve been marooned on a desert island somewhere, you would’ve noticed the trend towards hardtops on all manner of trailerable craft with notions of offshore adventures. The benefits of an enclosed superstructure are numerous, not least the added protection from the elements and additional weight allowing the hull to settle in inclement conditions. And it’s not just anglers in cooler climes that have warmed to hardtops; many northern fishos also succumb to their charms.
Stacer’s 679 Ocean Ranger Hardtop (HT) is the brand’s first foray into this market segment and it’s obvious they’ve done their homework. A 5mm hull with 4mm topsides is reinforced internally with a substantial underfloor matrix or “GIBS” in Stacer-speak (a combination gusset and rib) that’s welded to the bottom sheet for rigidity and integrity.
The hardtop itself is a relatively upright affair comprising a curved, toughened glass windscreen and side panels that feature sliding windows for ventilation. Further ventilation is available courtesy of the optional hardtop vents. The view from the helm is panoramic and relatively distortion-free, even when wet. The alloy roof itself is similarly flat and complements the lines well. At the roof’s rear Stacer has mounted half a dozen hinged rodholders to facilitate easy rod storage and retrieval – an innovative twist on the traditional rocket launcher offered by many of its contemporaries.
Internally, Stacer’s done a good job of packaging the rig for big days on the water. Wide sidedecks with welded-in rodholders frame the fishing cockpit which sports a treadplate floor. Of note is the foldaway rear bench/brag board with integrated ruler and new livebait tank with viewing window to keep the kids amused. A sturdy baitboard includes another five roldholders and storage for tools and knives.
The helm is well sorted behind that wide, front screen and angled to provide a clear view of the electronics whether seated or standing, while the cabin is spacious and airy. The eye-catching vinyl wrap that flows over the cabin only adds to the impact.
While our first encounter with the new Stacer 679 Ocean Ranger HT was brief, we’ve already booked it in for a full review that will feature in an upcoming issue. Stay tuned.
STACER 679 OCEAN RANGER HARDTOP SPECIFICATIONS
MATERIAL Alloy (5mm hull and 4mm topsides)
TYPE Hardtop monohull
LENGTH 7.09m overall
BEAM 2.4m
WEIGHT 1133kg (hull)
TRANSOM XL
FUEL 220lt
REC. HP 125
REC. MAX HP 200