You seem to be very active in here. So tell us what kind of boat you have
and where you do most ofyour boating.

I spend most of my boating time fishing in the tidal marshes of Louisiana
where my flatbottom boat seems well suited.


"Me Again" wrote in message
...
Gould,

I have always thought Crownline made a good boat, and have heard from
owners that they liked the boat.

At one time you believed the JD Power Customer Satisfaction Survey was for
sale to the highest bidder. What happened to change your mind?


wrote in message
ups.com...
Last year, the Crownline trademark was introduced to the Pacific NW by
Sport Boat Northwest. Billy Schumacher and Rick English invited us
along for one of the very first test rides, and we were very impressed
with fit, finish, overall design, and the absolutely "solid" feel
of the boat underway. Apparently our general opinion of the brand is
not all that unique: Crownline won the JD Power Customer Satisfaction
award for small runabouts in 2004, and finished in an absolute tie for
first place again in 2005. We believe that is the very first time any
boat earned "first place" honors in the small runabout category two
years in a row.

Sport Boat NW is stocking a very interesting boat built by Crownline,
the 275 CCR.
The 275 CCR is a very well-equipped "cuddy cabin" design that can
be used in a variety of ways certain to appeal to every member of most
boating families.

The 275 CCR is 28'8" LOA (including standard swim platform), with
an 8'6" beam. Dry weight is listed at 6500 pounds. The 275 CCR is
one of the growing number of Crownline models featuring F.A.S.T tab
("fin assisted safe turning") hull designs. FAST-tab (tm) hulls
incorporate vented chines, and full length keel pads to improve a
boat's ability to plane quickly and efficiently. FAST-tab (tm) also
includes "vortex generators" to control the flow of water past and
under the stern, virtually eliminating the common tendency among
outdrives to "wander" at slow speeds. The boat we saw at Sport Boat
Northwest was powered with the 496 c.i.d MerCruiser "Mag" engine.

The 496 will provide plenty of speed for skiing, tubing, or other water
sports, but the good times with this cuddy cabin are not restricted to
short hops across the lake or circling endlessly back to the dock.

Crownline's cuddy cabin will easily sleep a cruising couple, even a
couple with two kids. Versatility is the watchword when space is at a
premium, and the 275CCR cuddy is capable of some amazing
transformations. During the day, comfortable seating is available along
both the port and starboard cabin sides, with a removable pedestal
table for dining or card games. At night, the table can be removed and
a filler cushion installed in mere moments- converting the forward
portion of the cabin into a comfortable overnight berth. (Wide enough
for more than two, if everybody sleeps feet-forward).

Entertainment systems include a premium Sony marine AM/FM CD stereo,
with speakers in the cockpit as well as the cabin and a remote
"selector" switch at the helm. A flat screen video monitor is
mounted on the forward bulkhead in the cabin, easily viewed by everyone
seated around the table or relaxing on the bunk.

A cherry wood galley, (just to port of the companionway), features a
stainless steel sink, a dual voltage refrigerator, a microwave oven,
and stowage recesses. An alcohol/electric stove in an option.

One of the features most likely to be appreciated on an extended day
cruise or a weekend excursion is the fully enclosed head in the aft
starboard quarter of the cabin. No "porta-potti" here, the
Crownline 275 CCR's head features a VacuFlush marine toilet that
empties into a holding tank, as well as a stainless steel sink, power
exhaust fan, and hand held shower with sump pump. The enclosed head
also provides a totally private space for changing into or out of swim
gear and wet suits, something known to be a consideration on many
trailer boats.

While the cuddy cabin is well equipped to accommodate a couple or small
family group on exploratory cruises into our local islands and beyond,
the on-deck features of a craft like the 275 CCR will be high on the
list of priorities for happy owners.

The helm and port watch seats are comfortable, adjustable, and feature
flip up bolsters for extra support when standing or when a higher
seating profile is desired. The helm has a standard "tilt"
function, and a full set of "Faria" analog instruments. There is
seating for an easy 7 in the cockpit, with stowage below most seats.
One of the seats conceals a 25-quart carry-on cooler, ideal for packing
ice-cold beverages aboard. The aft section of the L-shaped seating
includes a collapsing backrest that can be positioned to form a unique
"sun lounge" bed in the cockpit.

Crownline has molded a set of steps into the sliding bulkhead door
separating the cuddy cabin from the cockpit. Access to the foredeck is
available up these molded steps and through the hinged center section
of the windshield, providing safe and sure footing for deckhands and
eliminating any need to "gopher" up from the cabin through the
foredeck hatch. Notable deck features include "pop-up" cleats that
will be there when needed for a line but can be recessed when not
otherwise needed for the stubbing of toes. All rails, cleats, and
hardware are stainless steel.

A bimini top is standard with the 275CCR, and camper canvas is an
available option.

Engine access is via an easily operated hatch in the cockpit. A look
below decks inspires confidence in the integrity of a Crownline hull.
Surfaces are finished, systems are well organized, wires and hoses
intelligently routed, and top quality materials are evident wherever
one cares to inspect.

Sport Boat Northwest outfits their Crownline boats with custom trailers
that feature diamond plate fender steps, mag wheels, custom, color
keyed powder coating, and other fancy touches. A Crownline will look
almost as nice cruising down the interstate or parked in a driveway as
it will underway on our gorgeous NW waters. (Almost).

Last but not least, there is a stainless steel ski tow rail and eye.
Yes, you will want to go fast in the Crownline 275CCR, and you won't
be disappointed with its performance. Add the comfort and convenience
of the cuddy cabin and you'll want to go far, and long, as well.

The Crownline 275CCR currently in stock is available for less than
$80,000.

SoFarell,

As I said earlier, I have boated in the Gulf, the Atlantic and Pacific, all
the Great Lakes (except for Superior), Long Island Sound, lakes in the west,
SW and SE, and the Keys.

I have never boated in Louisiana, but I know it is a fisherman's paradise.
I have gone fishing in the tidal area of North Caroline, catching shrimp as
the tide came in and out, and then pulling oyster clusters up during low
tide. Since I love crawfish, if I was in Louisiana, I think I would have to
figure out how to catch them. I would assume you use a net, similar to
casting for shrimp, but am not certain. I would also like to find a good
old boy who would catch me a gator. I love gator steaks and stews, but even
I am not stupid enough to try to catch one on my own.


"SoFarrell" wrote in message
news:1113053921.d01cd85d55d7d961da6cf9d7ee380b62@t eranews...
You seem to be very active in here. So tell us what kind of boat you have
and where you do most ofyour boating.

I spend most of my boating time fishing in the tidal marshes of Louisiana
where my flatbottom boat seems well suited.


"Me Again" wrote in message
...
Gould,

I have always thought Crownline made a good boat, and have heard from
owners that they liked the boat.

At one time you believed the JD Power Customer Satisfaction Survey was
for sale to the highest bidder. What happened to change your mind?


wrote in message
ups.com...
Last year, the Crownline trademark was introduced to the Pacific NW by
Sport Boat Northwest. Billy Schumacher and Rick English invited us
along for one of the very first test rides, and we were very impressed
with fit, finish, overall design, and the absolutely "solid" feel
of the boat underway. Apparently our general opinion of the brand is
not all that unique: Crownline won the JD Power Customer Satisfaction
award for small runabouts in 2004, and finished in an absolute tie for
first place again in 2005. We believe that is the very first time any
boat earned "first place" honors in the small runabout category two
years in a row.

Sport Boat NW is stocking a very interesting boat built by Crownline,
the 275 CCR.
The 275 CCR is a very well-equipped "cuddy cabin" design that can
be used in a variety of ways certain to appeal to every member of most
boating families.

The 275 CCR is 28'8" LOA (including standard swim platform), with
an 8'6" beam. Dry weight is listed at 6500 pounds. The 275 CCR is
one of the growing number of Crownline models featuring F.A.S.T tab
("fin assisted safe turning") hull designs. FAST-tab (tm) hulls
incorporate vented chines, and full length keel pads to improve a
boat's ability to plane quickly and efficiently. FAST-tab (tm) also
includes "vortex generators" to control the flow of water past and
under the stern, virtually eliminating the common tendency among
outdrives to "wander" at slow speeds. The boat we saw at Sport Boat
Northwest was powered with the 496 c.i.d MerCruiser "Mag" engine.

The 496 will provide plenty of speed for skiing, tubing, or other water
sports, but the good times with this cuddy cabin are not restricted to
short hops across the lake or circling endlessly back to the dock.

Crownline's cuddy cabin will easily sleep a cruising couple, even a
couple with two kids. Versatility is the watchword when space is at a
premium, and the 275CCR cuddy is capable of some amazing
transformations. During the day, comfortable seating is available along
both the port and starboard cabin sides, with a removable pedestal
table for dining or card games. At night, the table can be removed and
a filler cushion installed in mere moments- converting the forward
portion of the cabin into a comfortable overnight berth. (Wide enough
for more than two, if everybody sleeps feet-forward).

Entertainment systems include a premium Sony marine AM/FM CD stereo,
with speakers in the cockpit as well as the cabin and a remote
"selector" switch at the helm. A flat screen video monitor is
mounted on the forward bulkhead in the cabin, easily viewed by everyone
seated around the table or relaxing on the bunk.

A cherry wood galley, (just to port of the companionway), features a
stainless steel sink, a dual voltage refrigerator, a microwave oven,
and stowage recesses. An alcohol/electric stove in an option.

One of the features most likely to be appreciated on an extended day
cruise or a weekend excursion is the fully enclosed head in the aft
starboard quarter of the cabin. No "porta-potti" here, the
Crownline 275 CCR's head features a VacuFlush marine toilet that
empties into a holding tank, as well as a stainless steel sink, power
exhaust fan, and hand held shower with sump pump. The enclosed head
also provides a totally private space for changing into or out of swim
gear and wet suits, something known to be a consideration on many
trailer boats.

While the cuddy cabin is well equipped to accommodate a couple or small
family group on exploratory cruises into our local islands and beyond,
the on-deck features of a craft like the 275 CCR will be high on the
list of priorities for happy owners.

The helm and port watch seats are comfortable, adjustable, and feature
flip up bolsters for extra support when standing or when a higher
seating profile is desired. The helm has a standard "tilt"
function, and a full set of "Faria" analog instruments. There is
seating for an easy 7 in the cockpit, with stowage below most seats.
One of the seats conceals a 25-quart carry-on cooler, ideal for packing
ice-cold beverages aboard. The aft section of the L-shaped seating
includes a collapsing backrest that can be positioned to form a unique
"sun lounge" bed in the cockpit.

Crownline has molded a set of steps into the sliding bulkhead door
separating the cuddy cabin from the cockpit. Access to the foredeck is
available up these molded steps and through the hinged center section
of the windshield, providing safe and sure footing for deckhands and
eliminating any need to "gopher" up from the cabin through the
foredeck hatch. Notable deck features include "pop-up" cleats that
will be there when needed for a line but can be recessed when not
otherwise needed for the stubbing of toes. All rails, cleats, and
hardware are stainless steel.

A bimini top is standard with the 275CCR, and camper canvas is an
available option.

Engine access is via an easily operated hatch in the cockpit. A look
below decks inspires confidence in the integrity of a Crownline hull.
Surfaces are finished, systems are well organized, wires and hoses
intelligently routed, and top quality materials are evident wherever
one cares to inspect.

Sport Boat Northwest outfits their Crownline boats with custom trailers
that feature diamond plate fender steps, mag wheels, custom, color
keyed powder coating, and other fancy touches. A Crownline will look
almost as nice cruising down the interstate or parked in a driveway as
it will underway on our gorgeous NW waters. (Almost).

Last but not least, there is a stainless steel ski tow rail and eye.
Yes, you will want to go fast in the Crownline 275CCR, and you won't
be disappointed with its performance. Add the comfort and convenience
of the cuddy cabin and you'll want to go far, and long, as well.

The Crownline 275CCR currently in stock is available for less than
$80,000.

Me Again wrote:
SoFarell,

As I said earlier, I have boated in the Gulf, the Atlantic and Pacific, all
the Great Lakes (except for Superior), Long Island Sound, lakes in the west,
SW and SE, and the Keys.


I never heard of any lakes in the Keys although there may be a pond or
two on Marathon, Big Pine, or Key West. Whose boat were you on when you
made all of these trips?

Excuse my poor syntax, I meant to say I sailed out of Key West, , I did not
mean I boated on lakes in the Keys, but that I had boated in the Keys. ; )

As far as whose boats these were, most of the time they were mine, but I
also chartered boats and would go boating when visiting family and friends.
The sailboat out of Key West was with an old high school friend.


"Dan Krueger" wrote in message
ink.net...


Me Again wrote:
SoFarell,

As I said earlier, I have boated in the Gulf, the Atlantic and Pacific,
all the Great Lakes (except for Superior), Long Island Sound, lakes in
the west, SW and SE, and the Keys.


I never heard of any lakes in the Keys although there may be a pond or two
on Marathon, Big Pine, or Key West. Whose boat were you on when you made
all of these trips?

On Sat, 9 Apr 2005 09:58:52 -0400, "Me Again" wrote:

I have boated in the Gulf, the Atlantic and Pacific, all
the Great Lakes (except for Superior), Long Island Sound, lakes in the west,
SW and SE, and the Keys.

==========================

That's nice, where do you boat now?

I keep my boat on a large inland lake.


"Wayne.B" wrote in message
...
On Sat, 9 Apr 2005 09:58:52 -0400, "Me Again" wrote:

I have boated in the Gulf, the Atlantic and Pacific, all
the Great Lakes (except for Superior), Long Island Sound, lakes in the
west,
SW and SE, and the Keys.

==========================

That's nice, where do you boat now?

Gould,


I have always thought Crownline made a good boat, and have heard from
owners
that they liked the boat.


At one time you believed the JD Power Customer Satisfaction Survey was
for
sale to the highest bidder. What happened to change your mind?


**************

My personal feelings (and nagging suspicions that the design of the
questions have a lot to do with the out come) aside, it is a fact that
Crownline won the "small runabout" category in 2004 and wound up in an
exact tie for first in the same category in 2005. Among other winners
in 2005 were Cobalt and Sea Ray. As I stated, the JD Power survey
simply indicates that other people also feel the latest boats from
Crownline are a very good product. Would I buy a boat or other product
based solely or primarily on a Powers rating? No. If I were looking at
a product that scored poorly in the Powers ratings, I'd probably take
second look to see if there might be something I missed the first time
around, but if I satisfied all of my personal standards I would not
buy or not buy based solely on Powers. It's a point of interest, not
the primary benefit of the boat.

Chuck,
I'm glad this manufacturer has addressed the problem of wandering. I
find this a very annoying trait.
Paul


wrote:
snipped
FAST-tab (tm) also includes "vortex generators" to control the flow of
water past and
under the stern, virtually eliminating the common tendency among
outdrives to "wander" at slow speeds.
snipped

Chuck,
I'm glad this manufacturer has addressed the problem of
wandering. I
find this a very annoying trait.
Paul


***********

That was one of the more impressive discoveries during the test run we
did last year. Crownline makes the claim that the vortex generators
solve the wandering at slow speeds, and this proved out during the
test. (We did not get underway in the 275 CCR in this article)