Zodiac, one of the largest inflatable boat manufacturers, equips the Futura MK III with so-called speed hoses. These are two additional hoses that are fitted lengthways under the support hoses. According to Zodiac, this improves rough water properties and cornering stability. We can endorse this statement.
The situation is different when it comes to the number of people, which the manufacturer specifies as nine. However, we believe that there is only enough space for six people in our test boat. Two crew members can sit comfortably on each of the two benches. The engineers have made the right choice when it comes to the upholstery. In other words, it is neither too soft nor too hard. This means that even longer tours can be undertaken without having to take a break.
The seating has been bolted to the aluminium floor using a rail system. The latter offers slip resistance both wet and dry thanks to its surface structure. On the other hand, you can hold on to the coaming on board the Futura, which is necessary when cornering tightly at planing speed. The speed tubes allow the 4.50-metre-long inflatable boat to turn as if on rails, exposing the passengers to high centrifugal forces.
Travelling straight ahead is only slightly affected by weight shifts on board, and the skipper rarely if ever has to correct the course. If corrections are necessary, they can be made from the rear bench using a well-dimensioned 5-spoke sports steering wheel. The smooth-running cable steering in combination with the Mercury single-lever gearstick means the skipper never loses control of the boat. A Mercury F50 EFI was fitted to the transom of "our" Zodiac and tuned by a technician from the engine manufacturer. At 50 hp, the long-shaft outboard is 10 hp below the maximum permissible engine power.
The displacement of 995 cc is divided evenly between four cylinders, each of which has two valves. The mixture preparation of the four-stroke engine is electronically controlled. The alternator is also regulated, providing a maximum of 18 A for the on-board electrical system and for charging the battery, which is firmly secured in a suitable plastic box that is lashed to the last floor panel with a tensioning strap. We searched in vain for a main switch.
The fuel tank is attached in the same way as the battery. All lines and hoses are bundled in a UV-resistant protective cover and routed to the engine, which accelerates the boat to a maximum measured speed of 28 knots. The rev counter then displays 5640 rpm. In terms of consumption, we were able to determine 0.52 l/sm with this driving style.
With the standard 25-litre tank, this results in a range of 76 nm before the 15 % reserve is reached. Over 100 nm, exactly 101, can be achieved in the most economical planing speed. In this situation, the engine turns 4000 rpm and consumes 0.39 l/sm. The noise level climbs to 81 dB/A - an easily bearable value.
The transition from displacement to gliding takes place between 2000 rpm and 3500 rpm, with the bow blocking the view for a short time. The transition - and thus the "blind flight" - lasts longer if you forget to trim the engine all the way to the transom plate. The drive should also be fully trimmed when cornering. When travelling in ever tighter circles in this way, it takes a very long time for the propeller to catch air. The Futura does not lean into the bend, but instead moves around "in a good position" thanks to the speed tubes.
The skipper's steering commands are implemented directly on the imaginary slalom course - we did not notice any tipping over the longitudinal axis or any shifting of the stern. This driving behaviour requires a steady hand on the steering wheel if you don't want to go swimming. At slow speeds (engaged forwards), the Zodiac shines with turning circles of 1 ¼ boat lengths. The circles are smaller, namely 1 boat length, when engaged astern. Turning from starboard to port and back is hesitant - in strong crosswinds, the manoeuvre can only be performed using the throttle.
The robust support hose "swallows" minor bumps with a splash water-repellent scuff plate. The sturdy grab handles, two on each side, can be used for mooring. For trailer captains, Zodiac has fitted three eyelets at the bow in addition to the bow fitting and two stern lashing points.
By the way: You can read about the "consumption behaviour" of the Mercury F 50 EFI's competitors on the Zodiac test boat in our 50 hp outboard test in BOOTE 1/2012.
