Sailing off Cannes
It's at the Port Canto in Cannes that we're meeting to try out the Zodiac X 10 CC. The previous day's gale had left a nice swell off the Massif de l'Esterel, perfect for testing this promising hull. We set off westwards in bright sunshine for our test run.
The version we're testing is equipped with the recommended engine, two Mercury Verados, each developing 400 hp. There are four of us on board, with full tanks, for a total of 760 liters of fuel.
A highly protective cockpit
We take our seats in the cockpit, which is designed to accommodate three people. Our test model is equipped with the T-Top option, which offers a very large windscreen and highly protective side returns. On the T-Top pillar, two sturdy vertical handrails can be used by crew members wishing to get closer to the cockpit.
Two 12" screens can be installed above the steering wheel. The driving position is modular, and offers good visibility over the whole boat.
For fast travel in absolute comfort
Once away from the port, we throttle up. We lift off flat out, quickly reaching 54 knots in incredible comfort. Sheltered behind the large windshield, we're very comfortable.
The choice of the Finnish firm Navia was decisive in the success of this 10-meter hull. The double step and pronounced V shape give excellent passage to this hull displacing 3500 kg without engines.
We take a few tight bends, in which the X10CC heels a little, but without cavitating.
We stabilize our cruising speed at around 30 knots, at which point fuel consumption is 90 liters per hour. The maximum power of 900 hp will be preferred by American customers, but in Europe and for a family program, a twin 300 hp engine will be sufficient to take full advantage of the undeniable qualities of this step hull.
