Navan 30 boat test

The hull stands out in the way its reverse-raked forefoot curves gradually into a deeply veed entry. Pronounced chines and twin strakes provide lift and spray deflection before meeting the hull steps, which are there to reduce water tension and soften the ride.

Rarely have I driven such a beautifully mannered and quiet hull, and the enclosed wheelhouse does an equally outstanding job in muting engine noise. A pleasant cruise speed of 33 knots was achieved at 4500rpm and top speed was 46 knots at 6000rpm.

Given it’s a walk-around layout, the designers have excelled in getting so much sociable space into the wheelhouse. As one example, the backrest of the two-seater helm bench can pivot to face the three-seat rear lounge.

It’s an easy step down into the cabin, via a privacy curtain. With plenty of hull volume forward and generous topside height, the Navan offers a large double V-berth, good views out the topside windows, and a decent-sized bathroom.

Exploration boats are more about the outdoors, and up to a dozen people can be accommodated between the C30’s spread of bow, cabin and aft cockpit seating. The latter comprises a three-seat rear bench and pull-down side seats.

To increase cockpit floor space, which is modest by Australian standards, importer Collins Marine has dispensed with the wetbar that normally sits beneath the rear awning window.

Both sidedecks benefit from high coaming protection. Once at the bow, though, you should ideally kneel since the handrails are relatively low. You’ll mostly be reclining on the sunpad, which has hinged backrests. 

The waiting game has paid off for Brunswick in terms of product development but it might now take some time for Navan – an unknown entity – to build its profile.

Australian boats will come highly specced as turn-key packages, with the bow thruster, hot water, shore power and more. The test boat’s options included the twin 250s, roof racks, ski arch, underwater lights and Gatorstep flooring. With a single outboard you can get on the water for under $390k. 

Priced from: $389,990

Price as tested: $435,154

Price correct as of June 24, 2024

LOA: 10.23m

Hull length: 8.99m

Beam: 2.99m

Draft: 0.63m

Hull weight: 3888kg

Fuel capacity: 400lt

Power as tested: 2 x Mercury 250 V8 outboards

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• A FULL REVIEW OF THE NAVAN C30 RAN IN THE JUNE-JULY (VOLUME 39.3) ISSUE OF CLUB MARINE MAGAZINE.
• VISIT COLLINS MARINE FOR MORE INFORMATION.