About half the U.S. population is expected to live along the U.S. coastlines by 2020 — which means the 2019 216CC is just in time to ride the wave of boaters in coastal waters.
Officially a deck boat, the 216CC aims higher. There is ample comfortable seating to qualify it for deck-boat status, but in our test we found much more.
Most noticeably, it features outboard power, joining the revolution of swapping sterndrive engines for purpose-built, fuel- and emission-efficient, corrosion-resistant, saltwater-friendly raw power. Outboards add versatility to coastal boats, letting them run along shallow sandbars by tilting the motor up and easing through skinny water without damage to the boat or environment. And at the end of the day, connecting a garden hose to the powerhead flushing port allows removal of all salt and debris ingested during hours of adventure.
Two reboarding options make the 216CC a superb sandbar boat. One at the bow also houses a fluke anchor, the tackle of choice for sand and gravel bottoms. Another ladder astern accommodates watersports and stern-to-shore anchoring.
There’s a step-through in the 216CC’s transom, and once inside you have convertible jump seats that fold up to create an ample casting deck. Forward of that is the leaning post, which provides comfortable seating for skipper and mate. It’s the center console and stern design that qualify the boat for its center-console moniker. Rod holders, livewell and tackle storage — all standard — make it ideal for pursuing redfish or stripers in the pass, depending on your latitude of course. It’s designed to accommodate an electric trolling motor at the bow for casting to sea trout or snook along mangrove-lined grass beds.
Along with the proud chines and wide footprint, it’s the forward seating that most speaks to this boat’s deck-boat genes, creating a stable party platform whether anchored or casting. Cushions and bolsters create generous seating up front, leaving deck space between the console and the bow seats for easy passage.
When the nation’s coastal population reaches its zenith, the Stingray 216CC will be at the dock waiting for the people.
High Points
- Stingray’s Z-plane hull maximizes ride stability and outboard performance.
- Leaning post with cooler is standard.
- Rod holders and livewells add fishability.
- Foam in seating adds firmness and comfort.
- Available Fusion audio steps up the quality of sound for beach parties.
- Optional head adds all-day convenience for crews.
- Colored gelcoat sides enhance beauty.
- Fiberglass hardtop adds shade and rod holders with minimal maintenance.
Price: $59,534
How We Tested
Engine: Suzuki 175
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Suzuki 21″ pitch 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 2.5:1
Fuel Load: 40 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
Stingray Boats – Hartsville, South Carolina; 843-383-4507; stingrayboats.com
