Five of the best boats for Gen X

Surtees has been one of Australasia’s most popular trailerable offshore contenders ever since Neil Surtees re-engineered the boatbuilding principle of controlled water ballast by introducing it into a deep-vee, plate-aluminium planing hull.

At 7.7m (25.6ft) LOA, the 770 is Surtees’ largest trailerable hardtop model and delivers a strong and fast fishing and adventure package that’s also ideal for water sports and weekend cruising. 

The 770’s raised sheerline adds a reassuring seafaring quality to the self-draining hull, as well as a distinctive profile. What you don’t see from the outside is the incredibly strong and robust hull construction, with six fully welded underfloor stringers running the length of the hull with gussets every 400mm, plus a fully welded treadplate alloy floor. 

This model features a 6mm marine-grade alloy hull, 4mm topsides, and 3mm cabin construction. Power options include a single 250 to 350hp four-stroke, or twin outboards. The 350hp Yamaha delivers a range of around 270nm (500km) from the 400lt underfloor fuel tank, with five per cent reserve. 

Notable features include a 2.85m-long cockpit, a lockable hard-top cabin, and a spacious fishing deck. Bifold glass doors enclose the helm and saloon, and the 2m-long forward cabin converts to a double berth.

WA-based Oceanic Fabrications purpose-built this craft for long-range expeditions. Measuring 8m (26.3ft) with a 2.7m beam, it offers a large self-draining cockpit, comfortable overnight accommodation for two, and enough deck space to keep even the busiest fishing crew out of each other’s way. 

Powered by twin 200hp Mercury V6 DTS outboards, it cruises easily between 22 and 30 knots (40.7 to 55.5km/h) while burning around 1lt/km combined. With 600lt of fuel onboard, the boat has a range of around 500km plus safety margin.

Fishing credentials include a large kill tank, bait station, freshwater shower, raw-water deck wash, abundant rod storage, and premium Relaxn helm seating. Completing the package is an Oceanic 4500kg alloy I-beam trailer. 

This gutsy rig is immaculately presented and engineered to an exceptionally high standard, comes with a fully documented service history, and is a turnkey offshore weapon ready for serious bluewater adventures.

Built by the Brunswick Corporation, the Navan C30 is a bold and versatile 10.23m (33.5ft) cruiser designed for owners who want both performance and comfort. As an enclosed cabin explorer that sleeps four, it’s built for long days on the water, overnight escapes and extended cruising. 

Its most striking feature is the reverse bow that slices through chop for a smooth and dry ride, even at pace. Pair that with the stepped hull and the C30 planes at remarkably low speed, meaning less throttle and quicker time on the plane.

The high freeboard gives the C30 real presence on the water and a feeling of security, without compromising its sleek lines. It’s easy to drive, too, thanks to joystick manoeuvring and a full suite of Simrad electronics that puts confidence in the skipper’s hands.

But the C30 isn’t just about the commute. Its chic, Scandinavian-inspired interior includes premium upholstery, LED lighting, and a modular layout. Weekends are well catered for with a double berth below deck, an enclosed head with shower, and a well-equipped galley with fridge, sink and cooktop for preparing meals on the water.

Surfboards and water toys can be strapped onto the roof, rounding out a boat that’s as ready for a surf run as it is for sundowners. 

The Sailfish S8’s philosophy is to deliver substantial offshore capability in a package that remains trailerable. Its alloy construction provides impressive volume and deck space while being lighter than comparable fibreglass boats.

At its heart is the Hydroflow Gen 3 hull that sees the twin hulls ride on a cushion of air to help soften the ride, while the broad multihull footprint delivers exceptional stability. The Gen 3’s wider running planks, redesigned chines and streamlined tunnel contribute to improved lift, quicker planing and fuel efficiency.

The enclosed wheelhouse provides excellent protection from the elements and a reassuring feeling of security when the going gets tough. The cabin sleeps two comfortably and has a step-down toilet into the sponson. Toughened-glass windscreens, sliding side windows, wipers and substantial handrails combine with a helm that provides excellent visibility.

Extensive customisation is offered, but the standard package is already well equipped. The 8.2m (26.9ft) S8 has a 2.45m beam and a dry weight of around 3000kg, making it a genuine trailerable proposition.