Smooth Operator

Joining luxury and technology, the Sea Ray has always been a strong competitor in the ultra bowrider segment with its 270 SLX. With an original layout, sporty features and a powerful drive train, this pre-owned, or should I say “pre-loved” Sea Ray 270 SLX from CMH’s Waterworld is a must-see. Here’s the scoop.

Usually, these pages are reserved for the hottest and latest craft on the market, while pre-owned and second-hand boats fill up space in our back page classified section. However, CMH Waterworld’s 2007 model Sea Ray 270 SLX is just too good a boat to take a back seat in the magazine, and here’s why…

Moored to the jetty of the Riverside Beach Club along the Vaal River, the Sea Ray 270 SLX’s cream and white interior gleamed brightly in the morning sun – a vibrant contrast to its solid black hull. Two things struck me: at first glance, the boat seems to be in immaculate condition for a pre-owned vessel, and secondly, it’s clear that the Sea Ray Corporation in Knoxville, Tennessee certainly know how to build a classy boat.
The corporation doesn’t use a multitude of materials like other boat builders when it comes to equipping the boat’s interior. Instead, they use materials ergonomically, like the leather-like side panels, cupholders and 12V receptacles, which means better longevity and more moola when the time comes to trade her in.

The deck layout of this 27-footer
(8.22 m) was most impressive with ample space for 12 passengers to sit, move around or stretch out comfortably. Padded upholstery on the big L-shaped stern seat and big bow area, high gunnels and deep interior as well as rounded edges and conveniently placed grab rails provide passengers with a sense of comfort and security. With all the bells and whistles you can expect to find, the Sea Ray doesn’t compromise on any amenities. A Norcold fridge with tap and basin is situated on the starboard side to keep your drinks cold, while a Clarion sound system with eight deck speakers, two tower speakers and Pioneer subs can get the party rocking onboard.

Opening the hatch to the head, located on the port side console reveals an enclosed space with a Porta-Potti for those who prefer a bit more privacy when nature calls. Aft, the sun pad has a walkway through the centre to the swim platform which acts as either a full tanning bed or lifts up to reveal big storage space on the sides. The helm area, with its multitude of gauges and instrumentation provide a sense of control when steering the Sea Ray 270 SLX. With SmartCraft gauges for trim, temperature, oil pressure fuel, rpm, speed, trim tabs, nose spotlight and MFS (multi-function steering wheel), you have full control at your fingertips. With full ship-to-shore power, I opened the engine hatch hydraulically (can be opened manually as well), which revealed the low rumbling of a 8.1L Mercruiser High Output 425 HP DTS (Digital Throttle System) motor – a 496 Big Block that’s a beast on the water, clocking nearly

80 km/h at 5 000 rpm. For me, the best performing boats are those without any handling “surprises” when pushing her to the max. I threw the Sea Ray 270 SLX all over the show, made hard turns at full negative trim, cutting through my own wake and opening the throttle, giving her a real thorough handling examination. But not once did the Sea Ray 270 SLX lose any sign of control. It landed beautifully over the wakes, and the Bravo III 26-pitch prop showed no signs of cavitation. You can trust this boat in times of emergency, rough conditions or when a daydreaming novice boater runs into a spot of trouble. The Sea Ray 270 SLX was smooth onto the plane and equally smooth carving through tight turns.

With all the amenities, luxury yacht-like features and finishing, a big powerhouse aft and fantastic handling capabilities, the Sea Ray 270 SLX is a superb second-hand buy (as she remains in mint condition). The only minor fault I could find was her thirstiness for fuel (something you’d expect for a boat and motor this size!) And because of her 19° dead rise, she tends to bank slightly when fully loaded – but nothing that this boat can’t handle. With the Sea Ray 270 SLX, what you see is what you get.

This includes a Navman Tracker 5505, bimini top, adjustable swivel seats, centre ski locker, clip-in carpets, compass, centre walkthrough, windshield wipers, and many more. Hats off to the previous owner, who took tremendous care of his Sea Ray 270 SLX and treated her like his very own pride and joy. This is a boat that offers as self-indulging experience like no other. For more information, contact Glenn or Dex at Waterworld on (011) 462 4390 or visit www.waterworld.co.za