Overview
Pursuit’s DC 246 performed well in a washboard chop. Its sharp strakes and broad chines damped spray, and this deep-V boat’s motion proved easy on the drift thanks to those steadying chines. In all, the DC 246 proved able for safe, comfortable family and angling adventures. Its shallow draft and bow ladder ($1,080) make it ideal for beaching. While brawny and roomy, the DC 246 isn’t too big to tow on a trailer.
Interior and Accessories
Bow lounges, comfortable helm and companion seats, an innovative aft-facing seat with pullout lounge to port, and folding seats for three at the transom serve for pure boat rides and exploring. A curved, five-panel safety-glass windshield rides in a sturdy fiberglass frame, with the central panel hinged for closure in nasty conditions. A door below closes off the cockpit. For tow sports, opt for the removable tow pylon ($3,215). A 5-foot-long locker under the sole stores tow toys, boards and other gear.
The starboard console holds the helm, along with a large storage locker with racks for a bow table ($1,100) and the tow-sports pylon. We found the flip-up bolster helm seat comfortable while seated and standing. The optional Garmin Electronics Package ($10,390) includes a 12-inch GPSMap multifunction display, an Airmar chirp transducer, and a VHF radio with antenna. A JL Audio system is also available ($3,069), with Bluetooth, four JL speakers and an external antenna. The nicely finished port console offers an electric marine toilet with a 6-gallon holding tank ($2,880), along with a freshwater sink and counter. The door extends over the top of the space, easing access.
Going fishing? The 246 is a Pursuit! Add the fiberglass hardtop ($13,035), with its powder-coated frame and cockpit spreader lights. A quad rocket launcher ($1,850) supplements the gunwale-mounted rod holders. There’s a 15-gallon insulated livewell with a blue interior and a 31-gallon insulated fish box. Opt for a wet bar behind the helm seat to add a cutting board, freshwater sink, and a 45-quart Yeti cooler beneath ($1,080). The DC 246 will adapt to as many fisheries as it will family boating activities.
How We Tested
- Engine: Single 300 hp Yamaha F300
- Drive/Prop: Outboard/14.25″ x 18″ Turbo I 3-blade stainless steel
- Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 60 gal. Crew Weight: 360 lb.
High Points
- Pursuit’s craftsmanship shows in many places, most obviously the neat engine rigging. The company builds its small boats with the same attention it gives its largest boat, which is over 40 feet in length overall, and it shows.
- Deep-V running bottom, broad chines and solid construction provided a smooth, dry ride and stability at rest.
- Comfortable, secure accommodations for a wide variety of boating fun.
Low Points
- Headroom in the port console is 47 inches overall, but only 27 inches when sitting on the toilet with a high base, forcing adults to lean forward.
- Extra rod holders are options, not standard.
Toughest Competitors
Grady-White’s Freedom 235 ($136,980 with a Yamaha F300) comes with a stereo, six rod racks and a portable head (versus portable head with pump-out on the Pursuit); the options list is similar.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $143,040 (as tested with Yamaha F300) |
| LOA: | 25’8″ |
| Beam: | 8’6″ |
| Draft (max): | 2’11” |
| Displacement: | 6,138 lb. |
| Transom Deadrise: | 21 degrees |
| Bridge Clearance: | 7’2″ |
| Max Cabin Headroom: | 3’11” |
| Fuel Capacity: | 118 gal. |
| Water Capacity: | 18 gal. |
| Waste Capacity: | 6 gal. |
| Max Horsepower: | 300 |
| Available Power: | Single Yamaha outboard to 300 hp |
Speed, Efficiency, Operation
Pursuit Boats – Fort Pierce, Florida; 772-465-6006; pursuitboats.com
