260 SSi

There’s no shortage of quality 26-foot bowriders on the water these days. With new models introduced almost every year, big trailerable bowriders are an especially competitive segment of the runabout market. Introduced in 2001, the Chaparral 260 SSi is functional, well styled, and well equipped for a fun day on the water. She’s built on a solid fiberglass deep-V hull with an aggressive 22 degrees of transom deadrise, enough to smooth out some fairly rough water. The cockpit design of the 260 SSi—wraparound lounge seating aft, swivel helm and companion seats, wet bar with sink and ice chest, etc.—is similar to most bowriders her size; the SSi’s smooth finish is often the only difference. A lockable head/change compartment with sink and opening port is built into the portside helm console. The wood-grained instrument panel and mahogany steering wheel are nice touches. A transom shower, bow ice chest, in-floor storage, and removable cocktail table were standard; an extended swim platform was optional. A good performer for her size, a single 320hp Volvo DuoProp I/O delivers a cruising speed in the mid 30s (45 mph top).