With the smooth-riding, proven deep-V hull of its predecessor, the new R302 features a versatile interior designed for families that fish and boat together. The hardtop integrates with the console and leaning post/seating module. A full-height tempered bonded-glass windshield protects the helm, with a motorized vent at the top for fresh air.
Our test boat featured twin flat-mounted Simrad NSS evo2 12-inch multifunction displays on the 38-inch-wide dash panel. A nook to the starboard-side secures a cellphone, and a glove box on the port side opens to reveal a 12-volt DC power receptacle and dual USB ports. You can also stow items in a pair of cubbies atop the console.
The wheel and controls are located on the starboard-side to give the co-pilot a bit more elbow room to port. The twin helm seats offer individual flip-up bolsters and fold-down armrests.
The backside of the seating module on our test boat featured a covered 20-gallon livewell and a stainless-steel prep sink with a freshwater shower nozzle and tackle stowage drawers. A 72-quart Igloo cooler slid out from below.
Six gunwale rod holders, a 25-gallon covered livewell in the port quarter, two huge in-sole fish lockers, undergunwale rod racks, stainless-steel toe rails, and a transom door in the starboard quarter mean this boat is ready for angling action.
To access the neatly rigged bilge, a hatch lifts upward from the transom. The R302’s anchor locker conceals an electric windlass and a freshwater washdown.
A 5-foot-wide bench-style seat flips up from the transom. The step-down head compartment features an electric porcelain marine toilet and a vanity with sink and solid-surface countertop. Access is via a front entry on the center console. U-shaped seating in the bow doubles as comfy forward-facing loungers. A table transforms bow seating to a dining area. Three fish lockers (two 40-gallon and one 50-gallon) reside under the bow seating.
Powered by twin Yamaha F300 outboards, the R302 popped onto plane in 4 seconds and reached 30 mph in 7.5 seconds. Handling proved outstanding as the Kevlar-reinforced hull carved turns at speed with confidence and predictability. In a cross sea, it remained pleasingly stable thanks largely to the R302’s 10½-foot beam.
High Points
* At less than $154,000 with 600 hp and nearly 30 feet length overall, this center console represents substantial value.
* Lounge seating and a table in the bow will appeal to non-anglers in the family.
* Hinged transom seat/hatch offers easy access to rigging and the bilge.
Price: $153,795 (base with twin Yamaha F300s)
How We Tested
Engine: Twin Yamaha F300s
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series II 15 1/4″ by 19″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.75:1
Fuel Load: 80 gal.
Crew Weight: 600 lb.
More Information
Robalo Boats – Nashville, Georgia; 229-686-7481; robalo.com
