Bayliner Discovery 266 Boat Test Notes

Watch the Boats.com Bayliner Discovery 266 Video Boat Review

Overview: A single-engine pocket cruiser with an enclosed helm and a fishing cockpit.

Concept

• Dedicate a larger percentage of the boat to an enclosed helm and cabin, but reserve enough space for a fishable cockpit.
• Provide complete weather protection to extend the boating season.

Construction

• Fiberglass-encapsulated stringers; sliding side windows; fully linered cockpit and cabin.

Performance

• Single sterndrive provides a surprisingly fast top end for a boat of this nature, nearing 40 mph.
• High center of gravity means it’s on the tender side.

Handling

• 17-degree deadrise and chunky (6,820-lb) disposition bulls waves out of the way.
• Hole shot is sufficient for fishing and cruising, but not for pulling skiers or wakeboarders.

Features

• Cabin size is equivalent to that of a 28’ to 30’ boat, but cockpit size is equivalent to that of a 22’ or 24’ boat.
• Extended hardtop provides sun protection. Cockpit bimini provides complete sun protection.

About the author:

Lenny Rudow

Profile

Lenny Rudow is Senior Editor for Dominion Marine Media, including Boats.com and Yachtworld.com. With over two decades of experience in marine journalism, he has contributed to publications including Boating Magazine, Marlin Magazine, Boating World, Saltwater Sportsman, Texas Fish & Game, and many others. Lenny is a graduate of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design who has won 28 BWI and OWAA writing awards.

Website

http://blog.boats.com/2012/08/video-bio-lenny-rudow/

Google+

Connect with Lenny Rudow on Google+

Read more

This feature was posted on Monday, September 26th, 2011 at 1:15 pm and is filed under Boat Test Notes, Express Cruiser, Powerboat.

Tags: Bayliner Discovery 266, Boat Test Notes, Lenny Rudow