A number of manufacturers squabble over who has the upper hand in terms of quality and luxury. Cobalt also makes the same claim, but unlike the others, it focuses on much smaller models. Boats designed by Cobalt are less than 33 feet, and most are bowriders. While some manufacturers in this market count on attractive pricing and good value, Cobalt aims to provide the best on the market.
The first clear sign of the quality of Cobalt boats comes from dealers. Although dealers often have to fix a boat’s aesthetic flaws and readjust its various components before delivery, Cobalt models almost never require it. They are quite often ready to deliver as-is. The other sign is the price. Cobalt models are certainly high quality, and their prices reflect that. Our test model, the Cobalt 242 WSS, costs nearly $100,000 – a rather steep price for a 24-foot boat, but this kind of money buys a boat that will satisfy the most discerning customers.
For water-sport enthusiasts
The Cobalt 242 WSS is nearly the largest in the WSS line. It measures 25′ 11” (7.90 m) in length, including the swim platform, with an 8′ 6” (2.59 m) beam. These are rather generous dimensions for a bowrider, in keeping with the latest trends. As its name suggests, the Cobalt 242 WSS (for Water Sport Series) targets people who want to engage in water sports in a luxury environment. This line includes several features designed for aquatic activities, including a factory-standard aluminium tower. This ultramodern tower comes with a bimini top – a very handy when you want shelter from the sun – as well as wakeboard racks. You can also have speakers installed as well as lights so you can stay active into the night.
What about its style? The model has classic lines, typical of Cobalt. However, the WSS’s aluminium tower provides contrasts and gives the model a nice sporty touch. The boat’s two-tone hull adds a hint of sophistication. The end result is a chic yet sporty boat – expect it to turn heads.
Highly practical Flip-Down Swim Step
At the stern, the swim platform is set noticeably low, practically at water level. Aside from the fact that such a set-up makes it easy for swimmers to climb aboard, it creates a barrier between you and the mechanical components, thus improving safety. Not only does this platform prove useful, it even includes a section that flips down under the water, creating a full step. That’s much more practical than a regular ladder.
A passage on the starboard side facilitates movement on board, while leaving plenty of room for the sunpad and its adjustable backrest. The fact that the sunpad is so spacious means that even tall people can use it comfortably. Cobalt wanted to maximize cockpit space and has done a great job of it. You can move around easily, even with a large number of passengers. In keeping with its classic look, its designers decided to stick with two swivel seats toward the bow, rather than an L-shaped bench on the passenger side. This layout may take up more space, but from the passenger’s perspective, it’s nice to be able to ride more comfortably and especially to face forward. Just in front of the passenger seat, integrated into the port console, is a door leading to a small head including a little sink and a portable toilet. It is astonishing to see how the available space was used to create a relatively spacious head for a boat of this size.
Attention to detail and material quality
The open bow lets you carry several more passengers while offering an additional lounge area. You can lean back comfortably and even stretch out on the cushions surrounding the whole area. No matter where you look, one thing remains clear: the quality of the materials and attention to detail. Leathers are soft and comfortable, the finish is meticulous and the feeling of quality is everywhere. This is even more pronounced when you see the helm console, which is the pinnacle of luxury with its handstitched leathers and aluminium panels. The metallic footrest is another fine example of the attention Cobalt pays to the finish on its boats.
On the water
With Cobalt, you can forget attractively priced, underpowered boats. You are offered the right basic engine and several options in terms of power. Some engine configurations practically transform this model into a high-performance boat. Our test model had the most powerful engine offered by Volvo, the V8 8.1 litre with 400 hp. You can get even more power by opting for the V8 8.2-litre Mercruiser with 430 hp, which provides top-notch performance. The Volvo engine is paired with a DP twin-prop drive, guaranteeing a good wake , which is always important for water sports. The boat’s stability on the water is surprising. You feel stable and certainly won’t be afraid of turbulent waters. It only takes a few seconds to reach cruising speed, which is higher than that of several competing models at the same rpm.
With such quality boats, it’s no surprise that Cobalt has some of the most loyal customers around. Furthermore, the manufacturer’s models are covered by one of the most appealing warranties in the industry.
Review boat provided by: Groupe Performance Marine