Last fall, we tested the Sea Ray 185 Sport. As one of that manufacturer’s most affordable models, it is intended to make yachting more accessible. Not to be outdone by other competitors, such as Bayliner, which sells several models under $20,000, in 2010 Four Winns introduced the the H180 LE, an entry-level open-deck model. It’s their most affordable model. The concept: offer a boat that’s moderately-priced and fully equipped, with an emphasis on quality. The result: I like!

With a total length of 5.3 m (17’4”) and a beam of 2.29 m (7’6”), the H180 LE – for  Limited Edition – is based on the H180, which has been stripped down in an effort to lower the price. Of course, some concessions had to be made, notably with the large swim platform, which is now greatly reduced in size. The builder has, however, kept the important features that make the H180 LE a boat to reckon with.

Good value
With a starting price at around $18,000, the 2011 Four Winns H180 LE offers good value, especially as it includes a trailer in colours that match the boat. It’s quite pretty with its stylized 15” wheels. As a result, you get a whole package that’s light enough to be towed by a small SUV. The boat’s modern look and two-tone colour scheme give it a nice touch of style. Its greater length also adds a feeling of stability. There are several interesting features, such as a ladder integrated into the swim platform, which provides easy access to the boat from the water. A keen eye will notice the little details that make the model more affordable, like a plastic, not chrome, fuel cap and a composite, not steel, propeller.

Inside, the quality and attention to detail are noticeable. It doesn’t feel like a bottom-of-the-line boat, and that’s all the better. Both the adjustable driver’s seat and the companion seat are comfortable, and may be pivoted to create an ambience more conducive to conversation once the boat is at rest. The port console boasts carbon fibre look trim as well as modern, well-laid-out instruments. Nevertheless, the absence of a rev-counter is regrettable, as we still consider it a rather essential feature for a boat. On the other hand, we like the sporty tri-spoke tilt steering wheel, which makes a good driving position possible. Entertainment hasn’t been ignored either: a sound system including a CD player and subwoofer comes standard.

The Four Winns H180 offers plenty of handy storage spaces, including a large, in-floor locker. A practical touch is the walk-thru windshield, whose central portion folds up for easy access to the bow. There, you’ll find two seats that, though smaller, can still accommodate extra passengers. A wide, comfortable aft bench offers a fine forward view. It’s always good to see where you’re going! Finally, there’s a sun pad for relaxing or sunbathing. Nestled underneath it is the suggested single engine, a four-cylinder 3.0 litre MerCruiser 135 hp engine paired with an Alpha sterndrive. Two storage spaces  are located on either side of the engine, adding further practicality. This is where finishing is most basic, but that’s the case with much of the competition.

On the water
We were able to test the Four Winns H180 LE on a lovely windless day. These are ideal conditions because, with its smaller size, it’s not the perfect boat for braving a rough body of water. The 135 hp engine is more than enough to propel the boat. With two passengers, our test model took off in a bit over 4 seconds, which is excellent. Its ideal cruising speed is around 22 mph (35 km/h), which is reasonable enough, but the low fuel consumption is what we’ll remember most. With an average of around 5 gallons per hour (19 l/h) at cruising speed, this boat will let you spend hours on the water without breaking the bank. When all is said and done, we reached a maximum speed of 38.7 mph (62.2 km/h) at 4,400 rpm.

The Four Winns 180 LE behaves safely and pleasantly on the water. Its stability is assured by the V-shaped hull. Its design, christened “Stable-Vee” by the builder, offers increased control on turns and greater comfort on the waves. Despite the fact that this boat is meant to be more affordable, it’s got power steering, a feature that makes it easier to handle at cruising speed and during docking maneuvers.

In short, despite its price, the Four Winns H180 LE has style and features worthy of more expensive craft. This is a boat that lets everyone experience the joys of yachting at a low price, in a compact and complete format.

Review boat provided by: Groupe Performance Marine