From a distance, it's a semi-rigid with an encircling boudin. Up close, it's an open hull with deep bulwarks that reassure the crew. This Swedish boat with its shiny black gelcoat is a real eye-catcher. We had the opportunity to try out the Iron 707 with the new Suzuki 250 Kuro . This matte black model goes perfectly with the Iron 707. And above all, the Iron, like the other models in the range, is characterized by its mast, which serves as an antenna support, but above all adds an aeronautical touch to this boat.
Rough seas show off the hull's qualities
We weren't looking for maximum performance, given the sea state in the Antioche channel off La Rochelle that day. But if the waves don't let us go fast, they do allow us to extensively test the qualities of the hull and the right combination with this particularly lively 250 hp, offering the pilot plenty of response.
At 4500 rpm, we were already making 33 knots with 2 on board. There's no doubt that performance at 6000 rpm, the engine's maximum speed, will live up to expectations. At 22 knots, a good cruising speed, the engine runs at 3200 rpm for a fuel consumption of 23.8 l/h.
Trimming for light steering
To sail well, the boat needs to be pushed hard. It turns without forcing on the steering wheel, but also without ventilating. The pilot remains firmly seated in his leaning post, well protected from the windshield. A large dashboard in front of him leaves plenty of room for instrumentation.
Unlike a true RIB, external fenders do not contribute to seaworthiness. On the other hand, they are very pleasant when it's time to take your place on the pontoon to protect your hull.
An open hull layout
In terms of equipment, the Iron 707 is fairly classic. A handsome center console lets traffic flow around the 2 edges, and provides good protection for pilot and co-pilot. A seat in front of the console is pleasant when navigating. At the stern, a bench seat, which also serves as technical storage, offers protected seating. Finally, the foredeck can be transformed into a sundeck.
This Iron 707 is offered as a package with Suzuki engines. The introductory price is ?73,000 with 175 hp. You'll have to pay ?89,000 to sail the same boat as the one we tested.
