Who is aSports boat is looking forAmerican ShipyardGlastron are in good hands. The model range is very extensive and extends from five-metre boats for outboards to day cruisers measuring almost nine metres, with lots of variations in between. We sail from theGT series the 229 with aV6 fromMerCruiseralternatively there is also aV8.Motors and drives that either come from theUSA orSweden if you decide in favour of aVolvo Penta decides. Trailer captains require a towing vehicle that can carry at least 1900 kg on the hook.
Our test boat is waiting under the foredeck with aSlip cabin in which a V-shaped bench seat can be converted into a lounger for two. Due to the lowConstruction method - what thesporty design - you have to bend down to get into the cabin. The standing and sitting heights are limited, but it's certainly enough to spend the night in, and for aChemical toilet (extra) is also available under the cockpit floor at the entrance. In theStorage space You can store the essentials under the loungers.
TheProcessing of the boat, despite some untreated plastic cut edges, we predominantly rate it as "good". The technical and electricalInstallations fit. Under the dashboard, you can see an edge protection for the cable feed-through. We did not see a fuel shut-off valve or a fire extinguishing system in the engine compartment. TheBattery The main battery switch can be found in the storage compartment of the U-shaped rear bench seat.
A smooth-runningControl system and precise gearstick with effective idle lock facilitate driving and manoeuvring. When travelling slowly, the turning circles forwards and backwards are no more than one and a half boat lengths apart. When reversing with a gear engaged, it takes around 8 seconds for the boat to change direction.
direction, longer reversing manoeuvres are possible withlight Offset connected. In other words, the boat travels forwards and backwards to wherever you want. The driver and co. sit in adjustable bucket seats. We didn't see a compass or plumb line, but we did see reflections and glare in the windscreen.
So that the waves generated by the boat do not disturb us, we keep theSpeeds at a maximum speed of 1500 rpm and travelling at just over 6 knots. If someone changes places in the boat, this only has a minor effect on the course and heel. In addition, the bow rises, theForesight remains reasonable, however; the bow lowers again around 2500 rpm when good gliding speed is reached. We determine the most economical planing speed at 3000 rpm or a speed of 22 knots. AtFull throttle log 37.3 knots in our GPS on the Rhine, while the engine is turning 4700 rpm. As the speed range of the V6 is between 4400-4800 rpm, theAluminium propeller as suitable.
OneFuelling Normal petrol is sufficient for a theoretical range of about 105 nm plus 15 % reserve at slow speed. Withmore economical At planing speed, you have to look for a bunker station after 112 nm and at full throttle after just under 80 nm if you want to keep your reserve. The test boat therefore fulfils our minimum requirement of at least 100 nm, which means a "good" rating. We also awarded this grade to all extreme manoeuvres performed at top speed.
When manoeuvring over port, the propeller starts to ventilate with the drive fully trimmed when the curve diameter measures two boat lengths, and over starboard only when you steer out of the curve. If you perform the same manoeuvres with the drive trimmed, the propeller loses its grip earlier, which means "take the throttle off and start again". WhenTearing of the rudder, the boat follows the course once set without complaint, and on the imaginarySlalom track the GT 229 swings safely over its longitudinal axis.
The180° turns are completed within two boat-length turns in one go, without hooking or rocking the hull. During this manoeuvre, depending on the trim position of the drive, the propeller will sooner or later reach into the void, and the resultingCentrifugal forces are durable. We cross the high waves of commercial shipping at an appropriate speed and the somewhat lower ones at full speed safely and dryly.
In general, we enter the GT 229 from the stern, where part of theSun lounger is folded up and a seat cushion on the rear bench is removed. Sporty people "board" the sports boat via the foredeck, through the folding centre section of the windscreen and via a step on the driving position.
TheEquipment The Glastron GT 229 is sufficient for driving. However, the lightingNo authorisation for sea areas and parts of German inland waters, which we devalue. Towing eyes fore and aft and six mooring cleats are used for mooring. Comfort items have to be purchased in packages, and compass or windscreen wipers are not on the list.
Conclusion:
With its V6, the GT 229 is a fast and safe boat with room to stay overnight. Given the size of the boat, it is not surprising that you have to adjust your driving style in waves. The space in the cockpit is okay - you could call it a cuddy cabin that is easy to trailer.
