Formula’s boats have always been solid and satisfying, and the 310 BR, the company’s flagship bowrider, continues that tradition. Twin MerCruiser 6.2L 300 hp V-8s fitted with Bravo Three drives provided a 51 mph top speed, with zero to 30 mph acceleration in a hair over seven seconds. Finding the hull’s best cruise speed was easy; at 3,500 rpm, our speed was a steady and swift 29.5 mph, burning 17.8 gph at 1.7 mpg. Using 90 percent of the 130-gallon tank, that’s a 199-mile range.
Performance is more than numbers, and the 310 BR is steady from idle to wide-open. Getting used to the trim tabs and power trim takes some practice because the deep-V is extremely responsive to adjustments. There aren’t many days that could keep this smooth-riding hull off the water, thanks to its length, 22-degree deadrise at the transom, and near-10,000-pound weight.
Inside the cockpit, there were no disappointments whatsoever. The effect is clean, well-executed and plush. The upholstery is comfortable and smart without being overly glam. Flooring is snap-in removable Sea Weave vinyl, and it appears much lighter and able to shed water than the standard carpet. Cockpit seats all have reversible locking seat backs, so you can face forward or turn aft to watch watersports. The optional anchor windlass in the bow compartment is accessible and easily deployed or retrieved on command; even the housing it rests in is nicely finished.
The helm features padded dash accents surrounding light-touch controls, with Livorsi custom throttles and shifters. Behind the dash and under the engine hatch, rigging is executed crisply. The Clarion stereo system offers punchy sound via six speakers and a 400-watt amp. The cockpit boasts a molded inner liner with molded fiberglass dashboard. Inside the dash compartment is storage for the seat and sun pad filler cushions, as well as space for gear. Portside seating contains storage for dive tanks and a trash container. It’s a boat that’s built to have a blast, and to last.
High Points
* Yachting fabric upholstery feels and looks high-end.
* Durable Amtico floor surface in head compartment.
* Dashboard has been upgraded to have better connectivity and device storage.
* USB ports abound in bowrider and interior; everyone can stay connected.
How We Tested
Engine: Twin Mercury MerCruiser 6.2L ECT 300 hp
Drive/Prop: Bravo Three/Mercury 22.5″ pitch 3-blade stainless-steel dual propset
Gear Ratio: 2.00:1
Fuel Load: 75 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
Price
$313,325 (as tested)
Contact
Formula Boats Decatur, Indiana; 800-736-7685; formulaboats.com
