The Senator RV is the latest release in what is Skicraft's most popular range, the Senator series. However, the RV differs quite substantially from its brothers in a number of areas.

From the keel up this boat has gone through some radical changes over its building process. A standout feature of the hull is the stern design. If you look at each corner on the back of the boat, it's almost as if someone has chopped the corners off and rounded the edges, to give the back end a much more rounded shape below the platform than a traditional ski or wakeboarding boat. It's a very smart concept when you understand the physics of what Skicraft set out to achieve. This design resulted in a very flat bottom at the transom, which equates to a flat table for slalom and an even-sided wake for wakeboarding.

At wakeboard speed the rear of the boat has a smaller buoyancy surface area, which in turn allows the rear of the boat to be drawn deeper into the water with very little effort, thus creating a larger wake. On the other end of the scale, at slalom speed, when the boat is fully on the plane, this area of the hull creates a small, glassy, soft edge to the wake, which is great for all the skiers in the family.

A standard feature on this model is Skicraft's own AWS (Aggression Wake System), comprising a trim plate located at the outer edge of the stern. In simple terms the plate creates a rocker effect in the hull.

When the plate is all the way down, beginner wakeboarders and skiers benefit from a flatter wash. In the up position the plate sinks the boat further down into the water, creating a larger wake.

The AWS is operated via the trim button on the hand throttle, which the driver adjusts up or down for the desired setting. A gauge on the dash shows the position of where the AWS is set.

Skicraft have been using adjustable wake-enhancing plates for a number of years, and through constant development this system is both effective and efficient.

PERFORMANCE / HANDLING

The crew at Skicraft have over 40 years experience in the boat building industry, and the result is high quality machines like the Senator RV.

As we have found over the years on all Skicrafts, the handling and steering on the Senator RV is a real highlight. This boat doesn't flinch under any conditions, and feels like it is almost on rails.

The driver is well catered for with a fully-adjustable captains chair, easy to view gauges, and ergonomic armrest.

Easing the throttle forward is a treat and you are rewarded with a nice burble from the injected PCM Excalibur 343 and a smooth response up onto a plane and then right through the rev range.

For a relatively big boat it's a pleasure to throw around, and the tight handling, light steering and throaty V8 performance will keep the drivers out there very happy indeed.

INTERIOR

As with all areas of the boat, Skicraft has set the bar high when it comes to seating and storage. As mentioned, the driver's seat is adjustable, swivels and incorporates a flip up bolster cushion.

The high, toughened glass windscreen offers plenty of protection from the wind, ensuring the cabin is quiet and cosy even at high speeds.

The bow section is clean, simple and comfortable, and incorporates stereo speakers as well as drink holders.

The main cabin features full wrap-around club seating, with recessed drink holders scattered throughout, as well as an abundance of storage under the cushions and elasticised nets either side.

Behind the observer's seat you will discover a huge amount of storage, ideal for life jackets and large items. More storage is hidden beneath two large hatches either side of the engine compartment, big enough for eskies and extra gear.

All materials used inside are of the highest quality, and the end result is an interior that feels and looks classy and comfortable.

WAKE

The Senator RV has a very versatile wake. We've already mentioned the AWS, which ensures a range of wakeboarders, and even skiers, can find their preferred conditions.

In addition, the Senator RV is available with an optional ballast system holding 350kg of water.

By filling the tanks and lifting the AWS, the wake grows and develops a nice, rampy edge.

Team rider Troy Roker rides at the standard 80ft mainline length with a little extra ballast at around 23mph. Over the years Troy has developed into a well-balanced, all-round rider, and the boat is well suited to his style of wakeboarding.

UP TOP

The test boat was fitted with Skicraft's new Swoop tower, incorporating ski racks, board racks, driving lights, bimini canopy and a perfectly positioned tournament mirror.

This new tower design folds down with little effort, and is only a one-person job. The sporty style of the tower adds to the clean lines of the boat, and certainly compliments the boat's overall appearance.

SUMMARY

With years of experience and a passion for developing and enhancing their line-up, Skicraft fly the flag for locally built product with pride.

The Senator RV combines new technology with traditional quality, and the result is a boat that covers all the bases very well.

SPECS

Length 6.48m (21' 4")

Width 2.1m

Seating 8

Fuel Capacity 135 litres

Weight on Trailer 1550kg

Priced From $55,000

Contact 03 9729 3499