SouthWind 2400 Sport Deck

August 2016 Boat Test Monday

This article originally appeared in our 2016 Shootout issue. If you are interested in seeing more stories like this, click HERE to subscribe.

Three Things

This is a smooth-handling, feature-packed deck boat with a lot of great hidden amenities.

Breakdown

For those looking for runabout style with deck boat room, this sporty 2400 is worth a closer look. It seems like the more we explored, the more hidden features and storage compartments we found.

Starting at the helm console, the dash is centered on a Garmin GPSmap 741xs that provides the driver with a lot of valuable information. On each side of the GPS are easy-to-read, multi-function gauges with lighted toggle switches below. Also at the helm are the stereo controls for the Bluetooth Jensen stereo, plus a 12-volt outlet and a USB/Auxiliary port to give you more options when it comes to playing your music. The helm chair slides, swivels and reclines, plus it includes a flip-up bolster. Directly across is an identical chair for the first mate. We really love the dual helm chair look.

Behind the helm seat is a small galley that includes a sink with a wash-down faucet as well as a recessed cooler below that you can access without sliding it out. Our other favorite area is the full enclosure opposite of the helm console that includes a Porta-Potti toilet, vented window, towel holder, toilet paper holder, mirror, and a wash-down and sink. And because the nicely-finished 4-foot tall enclosure drains, you could use the wash-down to shower off if needed.

From the storage compartments below the seats to the unique compartments like in front of the helm, everything is smooth and completely finished. Speaking of storage, there are two in-floor lockers that connect with one being narrow and deep and the other more shallow but extremely wide. Below the rear bench seat is a “truck-like” storage that easily lifts up with the use of the gas-assisted shocks. We’re talking walk-in type of space that includes specific holders for your table, plus access to the dual batteries.

What is also unique about the rear bench seat is the backrest is moveable and can be positioned to create a backrest for the rear-facing stern loungers or lay completely flat for a sun lounger. It’s also in this area we discovered a retractable ski pylon that locks into place by twisting it tightly and stows away nicely when you don’t need it. One last note: we especially like the full windshield with a wind block door below for those cooler mornings.

Inspection

The all-composite, wood-free deep V hull has a 20-degree deadrise and around the perimeter of the boat is a stainless rubrail. There are two boarding ladders with handholds on both ends of the boat and inside the boat there is over 12 feet of deck space. The fit and finish work is amazing with even the hidden areas finished well and overall our inspection crew found this boat to be well-built and family-friendly.

Handling

With the Yamaha 200hp four-stroke we were anticipating a fast ride, but what we weren’t expecting was a hull design that allows this SouthWind to really dive into those sharp turns for a smooth and extremely fun ride.

Final Thoughts

It’s the added touches like the fold-up locking arm rests for the two bow lounges that are part of the U-shaped seating area and the stainless steel hardware as well as blue LED lights used throughout that help put this boat over the top. It truly is loaded with a lot of great features and amenities that will only make your time out on the water that much better.

2016 Boat Specifications

Number of Occupants 12

Maximum Speed 44.5 mph

Wild Ponies 200 hp

No. of Gates 2

0-20 MPH 6.47 seconds

Ladder Measurement 3’ deep

Why we love this boat…It would be hard to find a boat with more storage options, plus we love all the hidden features and amenities that truly make this deck user-friendly.

Just being picky…With such a vibrant blue exterior it would be nice to see a little more color inside the boat as an accent, and the only amenity we didn’t find is a trash can.

NOTABLE STANDARDS

LED nav. lights, Fusion sound system, hydraulic steering and tilt helm, 2.5 qt. carry-on cooler, LED courtesy lights, 3-position convertible lounger, stainless steel hardware, Bimini top and anchor locker.