Four Winns is an American brand recently acquired by Bénéteau. A brand that offers units with very diverse programs. The Vista range consists of cabin cruisers. We tried the 255, the smallest of the range.
The overall impression is very good. This boat perfectly meets the specifications it sets for itself. This 7.70 m long boat is suitable for a family of 4 people. Here the cabin will accommodate everyone and the cockpit is large enough to enjoy a great holiday. With its very closed cockpit, the father will always have an eye on his children and the very gentle behaviour of this V-shaped hull will reassure the whole crew. We could just blame a strong angle of the gite in a bend that could frighten the less reckless.
With a 300 hp Volvo V6, we were sailing calmly at 33 knots (cruising speed at 3000 rpm). The acceleration is progressive and the boat passes very well in the waves. A good point for this well balanced hull. High enough on the water, the pilot dominates the water.
To live, the very equipped cockpit leaves several relaxation areas. Behind the steering station is an external kitchen with an electric hob (220 V) and a sink. But there is no fridge in the cabin. The swivelling rear bench seat transforms the cockpit into a dining area. This space can also be transformed into a sunbathing area.
The cabin under the foredeck offers a nice height under the bars. We stand there without worry. A door gives access to a bathroom. On the back a mid-cabin with a double berth will be ideal for a couple. The front triangle can be transformed into a dining area or a sleeping area depending on the time of day. The kitchen is a sink and a fridge. But these boats are above all designed to live outdoors.
Access to the front deck is by opening the central windscreen. Three steps give access from the cockpit. If the anti-slip of the bridge is well made, you should be wary of plexi panels that illuminate the interior. These are slippery when wet.
The Vista 255 offers a good demonstration of the ideal cabin cruiser. We can just blame some finishing details like the cigarette lighter plug to connect the high beam. Details that can easily be rectified by the site before entering our European market.
