Triton’s 301XD Express can please a family or coddle anglers used to toughing it out offshore. Loaded with fishboxes, tackle stowage, and a standard fiberglass half-tower, the 301XD Express comes with some special pleasures. Reverse cycle air-conditioning, an LCD TV, microwave, MP3 hookup, water heater, china commode, and teak and holly cabin sole give you cruiseability along with the boat’s inherent fishability.
Construction includes a matrix-type one-piece stringer system made of Tri-Core, with added layers of fiberglass and a methacrylate glue that’s stronger than the fiberglass it bonds. That means if you pulled the pieces apart, the glass would break before the glue. The parts are computer designed and cut, ensuring a precision fit. The transom runs full width to spread the stress of outboard torque, and all belowdecks voids are filled with flotation foam that quiets the ride, stiffens the boat, and insulates stowage boxes. I was also impressed by the through-hull fittings, which are stainless steel, bonded, and coupled to reinforced, double-clamped hoses.
Hate getting nickel-and-dimed with options? Triton offers a better way. In addition to its standard luxury touches, the 301XD Express includes the gear anglers demand, starting with an electric windlass up front. The hardtop is also included, complete with electronics box. All the fishing amenities are standard, too, including a jumbo lighted livewell, with tuna tube capability, and tons of tackle and rod stowage. The only extras you may want to add are the Panda 4.1 kW diesel generator ($14,896), which tucks away under the aft sole, and the Taco Grand Slam outriggers ($1,944).
Considering its four-ton hull weight and wide beam, the 301XD Express displayed surprising performance with the twin 300-hp Mercruy Verado outboards. Holeshot is nearly instant and midrange acceleration is exceptional. With three-quarters fuel and three aboard, the 301XD Express topped out at 50.7 mph. Range at 4000 rpm and 26.4 mph is 318 miles, making this a great boat for island hopping.
