265 SSi

The Chaparral 265 SSi is a cuddy version of the company’s 260 SSi bowrider produced from 2001–06. If anything, the 265 was a more popular model than the open-bow 260, although both were good sellers for Chaparral during their production years. Like her sibling, the 265 is functional, well styled, and well equipped. 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—wraparound lounge seating aft, swivel helm and companion seats, wet bar with sink and ice chest, etc.—is similar to most cuddy runabouts her size; the SSi’s smooth finish is often the only significant difference. Below, the well-appointed cabin features a wraparound leather settee forward, compact galley with sink and refrigerator, and quality vinyl overheads and wall coverings. A transom shower, beverage holders, in-floor storage, and removable cocktail table were standard; a sport arch and extended swim platform were 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).