Offered by the Brunswick Group, the Veer brand offers rotomolded polyethylene canoes suitable for fishing and cruising. We tested this new boat in conjunction with the brand-new Mercury Avator 20e, a 2 kW electric outboard.
A program focused on fishing
Designed for protected waters, the Veer X13 is a 4-meter boat that displaces 180 kg. Made from rotomolded polyethylene, it is approved for two passengers.
Very low to the water, this boat is designed for fishing or water sports. Its solid construction makes it maintenance-free. Its shallow draft makes it ideal for navigation on lakes and shallow rivers. The deck is covered with an effective anti-skid coating.
A large double-door locker is located at the back of the cockpit. Another storage space is provided under the foredeck. This will accommodate either the battery for the electric version, or the fuel tank for the internal combustion version. The pilot has a seat with a cushion, housing the electric motor's electrical panel.
The Veer X13 is available in two colors, gray or blue. The list of options is fairly short, with cup holders, a central roll bar for sitting upright, a winter cover and rod holders. The whole package inspires confidence and boasts an excellent level of finish.
Reassuring behavior
We tested the Veer X13 on the Riou de l'Argentière river in Mandelieu la Napoule. Powered by the brand-new Avator 20e electric motor, we reached a speed of 5.9 knots at full throttle. On small stretches of water, this low speed will suffice to reach a fishing zone, but will be a handicap on longer voyages.
With a 9.9 thermal, the Veer X13 will be able to lift off and increase its range.
However, the Avator proves to be extremely quiet and provides a much higher quality of navigation than its thermal cousins.
Despite its narrow hull, the Veer X13 offers excellent stability. Even with two generously-sized adults on board, it heels very moderately, an excellent point for fishing activities.
A model without direct competition
The Veer X13 with a Mercury Avator 7.5e, i.e. the lower model than the one in our test, and its trailer is offered at a price of ?14,800 ex VAT, ex USA. With a Mercury 9.9 hp combustion engine, the bill comes down to less than ?13,000 ex VAT. The Veer 13's features and construction set it apart from the competition.
A Whaly 400, also made in rotomoulding, will be offered at around ?5,000 bareboat.
An aluminum bass boat like the Lund 14 is available for ?9,900 bareboat.
The Veer X13 offers interesting features, with a good level of finish. However, its two-person rating restricts the program to a duo only.
