At boat shows, my husband gravitates to center console fishing boats with live wells, deck boxes and fishing rod storage. The boats he admires have limited seating, offer very little protection from the elements, and have none of the comforts I consider crucial for family boating outings. I envision a cabin cruiser with a full galley, a head, and enough space to sleep four comfortably.
The challenge: selecting a boat that offers a win/win solution
If you have the same challenge and are skeptical such a boat exists, as I was, read on to find out if the 2008 Larson Cabrio 260 Sport Cruiser might be a win/win for you.
The Cockpit
What most impressed me about the Cabrio 260 were the possibilities. A true sport cruiser with a roomy cabin, it’s most attractive feature is a cockpit that can accommodate family and friends as comfortably as a few fishing buddies.
The aft deck is fitted with a removable seat, which when stowed, opens the space for comfortable fishing. A 25-quart cooler has dedicated storage, and the large swim platform can easily hold another cooler up to 110 quarts. The cockpit also features a refreshment center with a pressure faucet and deep sink with storage below.
My favorite topside feature is a portside lounge with beverage holders that beckons me to bring a good book and plenty of sunscreen. Other thoughtful features, such as molded steps that provide access to the foredeck, and a helm station with an adjustable, flip-up seat, also win points in my book.
The only downside to the cockpit of the Cabrio 260 is it does not come equipped with fishing rod holders and offers limited protection from the elements, however, both problems are easily remedied. The boat can be custom fit with rod holders, and a camper top is available as optional equipment.
The Cabin
Because of 6-feet-3-inches of headroom, the cabin of the Cabrio 260 feels roomy. It features a dinette and small galley for dinner aboard. A single-burner stove, refrigerator and microwave come standard, along with a coffee maker. The head has a sink and shower, and features a vacuflush head.
The dinette easily converts into a V-berth. While it can’t sleep four comfortably overnight, it will provide a cat nap for tired children on a day-long outing of fun in the sun. A TV and DVD player are optional, along with air-conditioning for those hot summer days.
All of these features will keep you and your family comfortable on your boating adventures.
Specifications
Length: 26 ft. 6 in.
Beam: 8 ft. 10 in.
Fuel Capacity: 84 gallons
Hull type: Modified V
Maximum Draft: 36 in.
Engine: Stern Drive: MerCruiser or Volvo Penta
