The Ace Glider 750 made its launch debut at the recent National Boat Show. Anglers were drawn to this magnificent craft with her impressive looks and sheer size. I have reviewed the 530 and 630 Ace Gliders and have watched this new model being put together since April, and now that the 750 is on the market, I’m sure it won’t be long before we see them in use all the way along South Africa’s coastline.
Into another world
Deck layout
An immediate impact the 750 makes is the spaciousness of the bow and bow seating (quite unlike other ski boats) and the stylish radar arch. I’ve had some traditional ski boaters query the open bow seating section – but clearly this style fills a need since the 530 and 630 models with similar features have proven popular.
Storage can be found all over the boat so there is no need for deck clutter. In the bow, the port side console drawers, under the pilot steering console, pilot seat and passenger seat behind the pilot are just a few of many convenient storage spots.
Stainless steel also features prominently from the well-designed bow rail with anchor roller and bollard on the bow deck – to the stainless steel keel strips to protect the hull. There are also bow and stern eyes, trawling bars and rod holders. At the stern is a stainless steel ladder and stainless bump rails fitted into the hull onto the sides. More stainless rod holders are found on the gunnels.
There are lots of hatches such as the anchor hatch with drainage, live bait well hatch, two large fish hatches and two large fuel hatches (five jerry cans per side).
The windscreen gives wonderful protection and is made from polycarbonate material with stainless rails to hold onto, if necessary. The features go on and on including two separate battery compartments, horizontal rod storage on the gunnels, fresh water tap, and a fridge compartment or cooler box (a great hit with fishermen).
The pilot seat offers lots of space and comfort on which to sit and steer or one can take advantage of a clever raised platform which is easy to put into place – to give a great view over the windscreen. Behind the pilot is a large passenger seat facing to the rear and it’s very comfortable to sit here and view the action behind the boat. This particular model has been sold and the new owners opted for a fighting chair as well. It is really a work of art and one can only imagine the comfort here when fighting a Marlin or sail fish. There is a step down to an electric toilet but this is an option as this area can be used for storage or a bed. The toilet makes a huge difference when entertaining, especially with ladies at sea. Another clever addition is a folding bench seat in the middle section of the boat on the port side against the gunnel. Very innovative!
Motors/controls
The new owners of this review boat chose two 250HP 4-Stroke supercharged Mercury Verado outboard motors. Delivering 2 598 cc per motor, the power is simply stunning and precise control and reliability are most noticeable. Sporting DTS controls with “fly by wire” technology, shifting gears is instantaneous and silky smooth. You get lightening fast throttle response and easier docking manoeuvrability. The motors were fitted with four-blade 19 pitch propellers.
On the dash was an array of instruments, some of which take some learning about to get the best out of them. Sitting slap bang in front of the pilot is the Lowrance HDS 10 fish finder/combo unit with GPS. This is a crystal clear 10-inch screen incorporating engine management, radar overlay and sonic hub. No getting lost here! The sonic hub is an ingenious waterproof marine sound system which will go down well in the boating market!
With your smart craft gauges linked into the fish finder one can still see one half of the screen with the depth and features below the boat while the other half displays your instrumentation such as rev counters, fuel gauge, trim gauges, alternator, etc.
Handling
Using full throttle with four people on board and 250-litres of fuel, we were on plane in 3,5 seconds. Our idle was as low as 550 rpm and top-end speed was 77 km/h at 5 600 rpm.
It was ovious when I drove her, that the Ace Glider 750 is well designed for sea conditions – including going to the horizon to find the blue water for marlin.
Hard turns to the left and right evoked no alarming tendencies, and cavitation just didn’t exist. In the prevailing weather condition that day we rode high and handsome over the chop and remained dry and safe!
At the time of going to print, we were unable to get a full fishing excursion completed. However, in the coming months we will have an in-depth review of her full capabilities. Keep an eye out!
Conclusion
The Ace Glider 750 has a lot of impressive features that all combine to work well in a superbly designed boat. Matching the boat with the Mercury Verados gives this package a massive punch.
Pricing of the Ace Glider 750 starts at R695 000, which includes 2 x 200 HP Optimax motors.
Contact Boating International on
(011) 452 8280.
The spaciousness of the Ace Glider’s bow and bow seating (unlike other ski boats) makes quite an impact.
The boat’s nifty fighting chair is fantastic and one can only imagine the comfort here when fighting a Marlin or sail fish.
The pilot seat offers plenty of space and comfort, and one can take advantage of a cleverly raised platform.
The Ace Glider 750 is well-designed for sea conditions – including going to the horizon to find those big game fish.
PERFORMANCE DATA
RPM km/h
3 000 38
3 500 40
4 000 45
5 000 60
5 600 77
ENGINE
2 x 2010 Mercury Verado
Engine Type 6 cylinder
Horsepower 250 HP
Displacement 2 598 cc
TEST SUMMARY
Water conditions Cloudless
Wind Velocity Light north east
Weight onboard 2 passengers, fishing gear
Top speed 70 km/h
Acceleration 3.5 seconds
*The manufacturer has verified that all specifications are correct prior to print.
