FORMULA 270 Bowrider
Formula boats usually delight owners, and this 270 BR should do likewise. As a beautiful lake toy, sandbar party boat, evening cruiser and restaurant hopper, having this boat at your dock tells others you’ve made it—and with good taste to boot. The new Ilmor One Drive engine/dual-prop drive package puts icing on this rich dessert. Spinning its contra-rotating props at 6,000 rpm, we flashed a steady 50.8 mph on our GPS and radar gun. While we bet that no one will be counting gallons, best cruise is at 28 mph and 3,500 rpm, where we recorded 2.7 mpg. With the 101-gallon tank, that’s a tidy 244-mile range leaving 10 percent in reserve.
As for handling, this one’s all deep-V, no mistaking it. Tabs down and drive tucked, we saw 5.9 seconds to plane and 9.3 seconds to 30 mph.
Turning was sure-footed and deeply banked at any speed, using the full keel of the 270 as a rudder. Crossing wakes and chop proved effortless, no matter our speed. This is a great rough-water hull, built to handle snotty seas whether on an inland lake or a busy channel.
Inside, the bow features a well-hidden optional anchor windlass and locker, followed by a firm yet comfy bowrider salon, replete with USB ports and cup holders strategically located for all.
Removable cushions transform it into a sunbathing suite. The cockpit features a nicely designed and surprisingly roomy portside head/storage locker accessed by a latching, hinged door. Storage for cushions and whatnot abounds behind the starboard-side dash.
The dash layout is jet-inspired, with more than enough controls, digital and analog readouts, and switches to keep the pilot entertained and engaged. For sure, attention is required. The Ilmor throttle/ shift control adds a custom touch with precise actuation.
Storage abaft is plentiful under the L-shaped reversible-back lounger, which provides great alternative seating options at rest or underway.
The engine-room rigging beneath this lounger is top-shelf. Everything is routed and properly supported, and there’s great access to the engine from each side.