WaterSki Magazine

Kristin
2009-10-08 10:21:12 | 1269 views | 0 Comments

BOAT REVIEW
When Svfara wanted to break into the top-tier ski boat business, they didn’t play around. They got renowned designer Rob Shirley to help them create the SVOne, a 20-foot, nine-inch direct-drive beauty that is immediately noticeable by its distinctive automobile-style looks. When we climbed in to test this ski boat a few of us looked around for seat belts because it felt like settling into a muscle car, and with its 330 horsepower standard engine, it kind of was. But any thoughts that this boat might be all looks and no substance disappeared with the first pull. The SVOne is certainly one of the finest slalom tow boats we tested this year, and quite possibly the best behind The Big Three.

BEST FEATURES
Interior Space
It’s crazy to be able to stretch out this much in a tournament-level ski boat, and we love it.

Walk-through Transom
Thanks to this recessed step, the platform is more accessible and the back bench can stay a lot dryer.

SPECS
Dry weight: 2,450 lb.
Draft: 22 in.
Storage: 18 cu. ft.
Passengers: 6
Load cap.: 1,350 lb.
Fuel cap.: 30 gal.
Length: 20’9”
Width: 7’11”

TEST ANALYSIS
Measurements
Gunwale height: 2 ft.
Main lounge: 79 sq. ft.
Platform: 7 sq. ft.

Wakes
At long line lengths, the SVOne’s wake is nice and small with a very smooth transition wake-to-wake. As we shortened it up to 22-off and beyond the wake got even smaller and stayed just as smooth and soft. We couldn’t think of a single complaint.
Overall: Simply a world-class ski boat, the SVOne is nipping at the heels of the sport’s supreme tow boats when it comes to wake performance.

Acceleration
With standard 330 hp engine and OJ 13×16 four-blade prop
To 30 mph: 4.3 sec., 104.8 ft.
To 36 mph: 5.7 sec., 170.6 ft.
Top speed: 45.1 mph, 5,300 rpm

Handling
Bow rise: 20 degrees during typical acceleration. The dash has a low profile and the driver’s seat comes standard with a bolster. Tracking: The SVOne is well-balanced and easy to counter-steer with a skier behind. Turns: This boat turns on a dime and is very nimble. Whether at high speeds or during docking, maneuverability is top-notch.

Vibration: Gs crossing wake at 30 mph: 1.63
There were no noticeable rattles or other noises when we accelerated to skiing speed.