BOTNIA TARGA 27.2 GT & AFT DOOR
LOA 30ft 2in 10ft 2in (9.19m) BEAM (3.1m) ENGINES Twin 200-300hp outboards (Gt)/single 380-440hp inboard (AD) TOP SPEED 40-45 knots PRICE FROM £172,600 ex VAT (GT) £173,620 ex VAT (AD) CONTACT Wessex Marine. +44 (0)1202 700702; www.targa.fi
n the world of the Botnia Targa, the variations it is making to the 27.2 are about as radical as it gets. Not only will the 2020 boat be available with the addition of a sliding aft door, but it will become the second model in the range to offer outboard engines alongside the standard Volvo Penta inboard diesel choices. Gentle joshing aside, both of these variations bring considerable value to the table and change the boat’s character quite significantly. The GT, with twin outboards up to 600hp, will likely exhibit electric acceleration, uninhibited by turbo lag, and a top speed five knots higher than its diesel counterpart. The space below the cockpit usually occupied by the diesel motor becomes a sizeable storage void.
The aft door option has further practical benefits by creating a separate access point into the wheelhouse alongside the standard sliding doors on either flank but its twin panes of sliding floor-to-ceiling glass will also encourage a good deal more natural light into the darkly trimmed interior. The optional flybridge – well, raised driving position – is sacrificed to accommodate the doors but many people, especially in northern climes, will see that as a compromise worth accepting. 2020: a bold new world for Botnia.