Let's start the engines
Once the various checks have been carried out - engine, environment, meteorology, crew... it's time to settle into the console and start up the Wellcraft 435's triple engine. And then, with the sliding door open, a raucous noise enters the cockpit, quite deep at low revs and unexpected.
And for good reason: Mercury models feature a sport exhaust button sent back to the console, distilling deep tones at low revs. A guaranteed thrill for enthusiasts.
The reason? Exhaust gases are vented above the waterline at low revs, then below once engine speed is increased. While this may sound like a rather cool gadget, it's actually quite functional, allowing you to keep an ear on the engines when manoeuvring. Despite its stature and light weight of over 10 tonnes, the 435 proves very responsive when maneuvering to get out of the way. The bow thruster can be relied on when needed, and a joystick simplifies the whole process.
Ergonomics to match wide-bore ambitions
The ergonomics of the helm station really match the Wellcraft's ocean-going ambitions. One hand on the helm, one eye on the horizon and the other on the repeaters.
The second sliding door, on the starboard side, provides easy access to the deck when visibility is in doubt. For checking on passengers at the bow, or quickly checking that no mooring line is obstructing a dock clearance.
The double console seat lacks a handrail for the passenger, but offers truly qualitative comfort. So you can look forward to long hours of comfortable navigation at the helm, gazing at the 16"p1"dry"s1"> Cruising at 26.5 knots, measured at 4,450 rpm, with a very reasonable fuel consumption of 176 liters per hour, it's clear that offshore sailing is now within everyone's reach.
