We had the opportunity to preview the Navan C30 from Mandelieu-la-Napoule. The bay was subject to a 15-20 knot westerly wind in the late afternoon, creating a light chop after a busy day on the Côte d'Azur. This context enabled us to effectively test the hull's stepping capabilities.
Promising features
With an overall length of 10.23 m, this sporty hull has a displacement of just under 3900 kilos without engines. Capable of accommodating a total of 600 horsepower at maximum output, the C30, like the other models in the Navan range, is made of polyester.
An ergonomic dashboard
Comfortably seated in the driver's seat, we enjoy the ergonomics of the dashboard. It houses two 12" flush Simrad displays. The throttle is easy to reach, and coexists with the Piloting Mercury joystick.
The rider can choose to sit or stand, with different seat settings and fixed footrests to help everyone find the optimum driving position.
A loaded boat
With 9 passengers on board, our boat is heavy, but everyone has been able to settle in comfortably to undertake this navigation during which we'll be testing the limits of the C30. Between the saloon and cockpit benches, everyone is safe and secure.
There are no handrails in the rear seat, but the C-30's movements remained smooth despite our sporty driving.
High-flying performance
With two V8s developing a total of 600 hp, it was to be expected that the C30's performance would be high. After passing the Mandelieu La Napoule channel, we mash the throttle. The response is instantaneous, and we quickly reach 47 knots, despite a loaded boat and rough seas.
We set cruising speed at 3500 rpm, corresponding to a speed of 25 knots, for an hourly consumption of 67 liters. With a 400-liter fuel tank, range is around 150 miles at this speed.
Passage through chop is excellent, and the Navan C30 exhibits no parasitic vibration or noise. Despite its narrow hull, it heels moderately in tight bends and does not cavitate.
