Rinker has always been known for building boats appreciated by serious boaters. Its lineup displays style and flair but is deeply rooted in practicality. The Q3 is the latest offering that fits right in line with the Rinker mission. Viewed from the dock, this boat has instant appeal thanks to its sporty lines and pretty gelcoat, along with the optional forward-raked ski and wakeboard tower. But that pretty form is also built for hard-core function. You’ll note that the Q3 has some of the deepest, most secure freeboard in the cockpit and bow lounge among comparable runabouts. Rinker calls the bow area “hot tub” style, with plenty of seating, forward-facing backrests against the consoles and stainless-steel grab handles strategically placed for the crew to grab and stay secure underway.
The main cockpit has wraparound-style seating with cutaways in the backrests that reveal inset cup holders and storage. The copilot seat in front of the portside console features an adjustable “swingback” backrest that can face forward, aft or toward the lounge. The port console also hides a head with the option for an MSD. The helm is ergonomic and well-arranged to maximize ease of use for the driver. There’s even a simple smart-phone holder on the dash and a throttle armrest that improves comfort.
The center section of the transom bench cushion folds down and away thanks to clever engineering, creating a walk-through to the aft swim platform. To either side, Rinker deploys patent-pending Stow-n-Step rumble seats that are great lounging spots while at anchor or when prepping for watersports.
On the water, our test boat made the most of its 200 hp Mercury outboard. We climbed onto plane in a brisk 4.6 seconds en route to a 44.7 mph top end. We recorded several 0 to 30 mph runs that averaged 6.9 seconds. If you’re looking to boost those numbers, Rinker offers the Q3 with Mercury, Yamaha and Suzuki outboards to 250 hp. Underway, the boat displayed crisp and predictable handling through a small lake chop and in hard-over turns at 30 mph. Visibility from the helm was excellent, adding another degree of safety.
High Points
- High freeboard around the bow seating keeps everyone safe.
- Stow-n-Step seat flips to create a passageway from the cockpit to the swim platform.
- Swingback lounge allows you to convert the port console seat into a rear-facing lounge.
Price: $60,294 (base with test power)
How We Tested
Engine: Mercury 200 FourStroke
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Enertia 14″ x 16″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.85:1
Fuel Load: 24 gal.
Crew Weight: 365 lb.
Rinker Boats – Syracuse, Indiana; 574-457-5731; rinkerboats.com
