Immediately after our test drives with build number one of the new Sea Ray SDX 250 in Florida, theParent company Brunswick Corporationknown thatSea Ray is for sale. The brand has been part of the company for 31 years.
The reasons given for the decision arePermanently low sales figures for large yachts, particularly in the US market. At the time of going to press, we had no information about potential buyers or interested parties.
But they can certainly be found, because Sea Ray has an extensive range with a total of46 model variants in eight product lines which starts with sports boats such as the almost six metre long Bowrider SPX 190 and extends to the approximately 20 metre long flagship in the form of the 650 Fly.
Especially as the range has been continuously refreshed with new developments in recent years. No savings have been made on new products or on thealways high quality standardsboth in terms of workmanship and driving characteristics. The bride is therefore in good condition, at least in this respect.
The new SDX 250 has just celebrated its European premiere at BOOT 2018 in Düsseldorf. Although the tested prototype was produced in the US, production in Poland is also planned for the European market.
The model is available inTwo variants. If you prefer outboards, you should take a look at the SDX 250 OB, which only has a modified rear section with a sliding seating area in the cockpit, but is otherwise identical to the inboard version we drove. Both versions can be trailered if the towing vehicle has the appropriate overwidth licence.
On deck
As is usual with the first prototypes, the test boat hasLots of accessories. This is done to check the installation situation for production. This of course relativises the alreadyalready impressive entry-level price of 102,500 eurosbecause if you want to treat yourself to all this luxury, you have to pay a little extra. This includes the very extensive "Platinum Trim Package" with a total of 16 extras.
In addition to the synthetic teak flooring throughout, this also includes a fold-out step that is integrated into the bathing platform as a supplement to the bathing ladder. This allows thecomfortable way into the water and board athletes to comfortably put on their sports equipment.
A passageway leads into the cockpit. Simply folding down the backrests transforms the front section of the rear couch cushion in conjunction with the side seat cushion and the passenger bench into a U-shaped seating area.
The standard table has a GRP top. On the starboard side, a variable seat combination for the driver - adjustable on request - and other passengers completes the arrangement. This is enough even for larger groups of friends.
If required, the converted seats can also be used as sun loungers. A bimini on the sports tower provides shade if required. There is storage space under the seat cushions.
The crew can access the open bow via the passageway on the port side, which can be closed with a door and the folding windscreen. Up to six people can easily form a group on the two benches in the wide bow.
A table can be added as an option or converted into a sunbathing area with the addition of cushions. The highlight here is another exit via a bathing ladder hidden in the bow. The shower heads, which can be pulled out here and in the stern, are among the options.
In theConsole conceals a cabinwhich serves in particular as a toilet room. A portable toilet comes as standard, while the permanently installed version and reclining cushions or a hatch for ventilation are options. For adults, the 1.47 metre high space with the 1.47 metre long and 1.43 metre wide lying surface is only suitable for sitting, but two children can retreat here for a nap.
Engine and driving pleasure
A MerCruiser 4.5 L MPI ECT with 186 kW (250 hp) is fitted as standard. In the test boat, a V8 in the form of the Mer-Cruiser 6.2L 300 MPI ECT with 224 kW (300 hp) was bolted on. A maximum of 350 is available. In all cases, a Bravo-Three drive with two counter-rotating stainless steel propellers ensures power transmission into the water.
At the helm, instead of the standard instruments, we find a completely digital display on a 12-inch Simrad NSS EVO3 touch display and the Mercury Active Trim.
Both options, of course.However, a compass is missing. All components and switches are clearly arranged and easy to read.
After six seconds of acceleration, a stable planing speed of 16.8 kn is reached at 3000 rpm. The top speed of 35 knots at 5000 rpm is at the lower end of the permissible speed range. There is no need to worry about trimming, as this is taken care of by the automatic trim system.
We determine the highest efficiency at 3500 rpm.
Here, at a good cruising speed of 23 knots, 35 litres per hour run out of the 238-litre fuel tank. Minus the 15 % reserve, this means that trips of just under six hours and 133 nm are possible without refuelling. Although this is not a record figure, it is sufficient for a day tourer.
The bolted V8 forms a harmonious combination with the SDX 250.sporty touch and offersPlenty of driving fun.
Thanks to a hull angle of 21 degrees, even waves set few limits to the pleasure. Fast full circles, which we initiate at 4000 rpm, are taken with a diameter of 2.5 boat lengths, whereby the speed drops by 300 rpm.
When tearing the steeringEverything under control. If the skipper manoeuvres slowly, full circles forwards in both directions with a diameter of 1.5 boat lengths are mastered. When manoeuvring backwards, we turn almost on the spot. Nothing happens when manoeuvring backwards at idle speed. Only an increase in speed has the desired effect.
Even when travelling straight aheadEverything in the green zone.
Processing, assembly and safety
Overall, the test candidate presents itself at a high level of quality.
There are no recognisable defects in the assembly of the components or the workmanship. The recommended second battery, which provides additional starting safety, is not part of the standard equipment. However, a fire extinguishing system and an additional extinguishing port are available.
The blower works automatically because the engine compartment temperature does not exceed 45 degrees. All components are easily accessible for inspection or maintenance work.
The 80 cm high cockpit walls give the crew a great sense of safety even when travelling at speed.
CONCLUSION
The Sea Ray SDX 250 offers plenty of space for day trips with a large crew. The toilet/retreat area ensures a high level of comfort. The newcomer also promises fun thanks to its suitability as a towing boat for wakeboarders, water skis or inflatable fun boats. Good handling characteristics and the transport option allow it to be used in any area.
You can read this test in the March 2018 issue of BOOTE.
