Quote:
Originally Posted by Bentley Boy
You, Mr. Breakwater, have the credibility problem. You clearly do not even have a basic understanding of the different models that Formula builds. Among those models are bow riders, cruisers, yachts and the SS lines. The "go fast" Formulas are known as FasTechs which are narrow beam boats with racing style seats, equipment and the like. FaTechs are built for optimum speed and performance and have competed well in off shore American Power Boat Association (APBA) sanctioned events.
The SS line are true "day boats" as they are an open cockpit wide beam design for the comfort and entertainment for more than five people. The 370 version is a wide beam at 10'6", not what would be considered a desirable racing specification. I have owned both Formula FasTechs and SSs and, believe me, there is no comparison between the two especially in performance. They are very different purpose built boats that only look somewhat similar.
As for the conditions that terrible night, judge not until you have been on the big lake on a moonless rainy night. After more than 35 years of boating on Winni I can tell you it can be absolutely frightening to say the least. In fact after the Diamond Island accident I spent nearly a thousand dollars on a marine GPS system. So Mr. Breakwater, I have been out there in those conditions, have you??
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I have to agree somewhat with Bently. The 370SS is not a "go fast" boat, it is a day cruiser that runs in the 50's. My pontoon is good for 54, does that make my boat a go-fast?
We all know what caused the accident. Thats where my opinion differs. I was on the lake that night and made a run from Wolfeboro to Gilford. I didnt hit anything and was traveling faster than the 370SS was... The boat was electronically equipped to handle being out there. I think MP determined long ago that the boat was not traveling at excessive speeds (by saying that I mean really flying). Excessive is in the eye of the beholder. Traveling at 20-30mph in those conditions is not unreasonable, if you are paying attention, not drinking, and are using electronics for overall navigation.