Stingray’s 225SE serves as a 40th-anniversary special model that combines family flexibility with a sassy dose of sportboat performance and looks. It impressed our test team on a number of levels. Read on to learn more.
Power comes from a 300 hp V-8 -Volvo Penta DuoProp sterndrive. With this -combination, the sleek 225SE accelerated to plane in just 3 seconds; 30 mph came up in a rushed 5 seconds flat. Top speed was nearly 59 mph at 5,650 rpm, with the bow carrying at a near-perfect 3- to 4-degree angle and a long, low -rooster tail from behind. With -sportboatlike -acceleration and speed, it was a pleasant surprise to record a best cruise rate at a sedate 21 mph and 2,500 rpm, where the rumbling Volvo V-8 sipped fuel at 4.4 gallons per hour, reaching nearly 5 miles per gallon. The 20-degree deadrise Z-plane hull carves turns sharply and cuts through the lake chop well with no pounding. Handling is nimble, well befitting a boat meant for those who want exhilaration.
Stingray offers solid-color gelcoat -options for both the hull and deck. Ours was finished in a sort of Richard Petty blue; -together with custom black dash, black vent covers, black rub rail and custom black Stingray logo treatment, the -effect was racy yet elegant.
Special sport upholstery, including an SX-style sun deck, matches well with twin bow loungers. A filler cushion converts the forward space into a large sun lounge.
Captain and first mate sit in comfortable yet firm, swiveling bucket seats with flip-up bolsters. The helm features a sporty black-and-chrome steering wheel, accented by a dash panel with full instrumentation set in racy chrome bezels. An optional depth gauge and trim-tab -control completes the setup and enhances your ability to fine-tune the ride. The port console features a large storage -compartment, mesh storage pouch and glove box.
The aft cockpit boasts a plush -U-shaped lounge and large stern sun pad, with center walk-through to the swim platform. SeaDek flooring is featured throughout the entire boat as well as the swim platform, for easy clean up, sharp looks and nonslip security.
High Points
⋅Good looks, ready performance, a useful cockpit and attention to detail—all for a competitive price—are the highlights of this 40th–anniversary model from Stingray Boats.
⋅Volvo DuoProp sterndrive provides low-end punch, ripping top speed and great economy thanks to optimized combustion and the enhanced bit and thrust delivered by twin, contrarotating propellers.
⋅Performance, looks and a plush interior that will provide seating for—and thrill—your entire crew.
Specs
LOA: 22′11″
Beam: 8′4″
Draft: 1′6″ (drive up)
Dry Weight: 4,348 lb.
Seating/Weight Capacity: 10/2,080 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 56 gal.
Price: Unavailable (at press time)
How We Tested
Engine: Volvo Penta 300 V-8 DuoProp
Drive/Prop: Sterndrive/FH-7 23″ pitch 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 2.32:1
Fuel Load: 22 gal.
Crew Weight: 585 lb.
More Information
Stingray Boats – Hartsville, South Carolina; 843-383-4507; stingrayboats.com
