Beam: 8’4″
Draft: 2’10”
Displacement: 4,200 lb.
More Information: glastron.com
We Say: Glastron’s GTS 245, its longest runabout, looks and feels fast, yet its design focus is on comfort. A 24-foot hull gets you a smoother ride in choppy water and a large enclosed head, to which an optional package ($767) adds a portable toilet, a sink with a pressure water system and a port light.
The GTS, a $1,360 upgrade from the GT model, boasts multicolor gel and hull graphics and a matching interior. Niceties also include the roadster-style windshield, vintage-look pull knob switches, sporty yellow gauge faces and a spider-spoke steering wheel. A sport tower ($2,660) with integrated Bimini top ($840) is optional. The cockpit has wraparound aft seating and buckets at the helm. The sun pad converts into multiple configurations.
All very nice, but the big smile on my face started when I nailed the throttle. With my test boat’s 380 hp Volvo Penta Duoprop sterndrive — holy hole shot is all I can say. This combined with Glastron’s SSV running surface to make the GTS 245 simply “lift and leave.” There’s enough midrange punch to lift the bow at 40 mph. At full tilt the GTS 245 doesn’t feel as flighty as smaller Glastrons, but still lifts well and is responsive to trim. If you like to drive, Glastron’s GTS 245 will keep you entertained.
Who’d Want One: Big-water boaters who appreciate a boat with sporty looks and performance.
Other Choices: Stingray‘s 250LR bowrider ($67,375 with 320 hp Volvo Penta Duoprop but no trailer).
Bottom Line: $65,940 with test power (includes trailer); glastron.com
