Rendezvous RSVP
9/22/2006 3:04:55 PM by Javier Salas
Get ready to send out invitations to all your relatives once you jump on board the Four Winns 378 Vista, a vessel created with family fun in mind. And nothing guarantees a memorable ocean rendezvous with the kids better than a boat that was built for the occasion.
Photos courtesy of Four Winns
There are few things that offer more unadulterated good fun than a family boating rendezvous. It doesn't matter whether it's several neighbors packing their coolers and families on board for an impromptu watery raft-up, an ultra-organized boat manufacturer sponsored event in an exotic locale, or something as sentimental as a family reunion on the water. Getting a bunch of people and their boats together virtually guarantees a great time.
The only thing that could make things better is having a boat designed precisely for socializing with family and friends, and perhaps overnighting on board. The Four Winns flagship 378 Vista provides all the required amenities for comfort aboard; whether entertaining, relaxing or sleeping the deep sleep that only comes from being on a boat with water gently lapping on the hull.
Rendezvous mean more use of the interior spaces than, say, a short fishing trip for the guys or scenic cruise to a waterfront restaurant. With this in mind, the 378 interior layout makes the most of the available space and sightlines by featuring a large open area, which encompasses the galley, salon and dining area. When the multi-zone lighting and window system is set for entertainment, the cabin quickly transforms into a home theatre with two flatscreen televisions and DVD players strategically placed in the galley and, for more privacy, in the V-berth.
The comprehensive galley is the heart of the multi-purpose cabin and boasts solid surface countertops and luxe woodgrain cabinets. A two-burner, flush-mount stove, microwave and refrigerator make both quick snacks and filling dinners a snap. The airy feel and ease of movement even with a crowd aboard is continued in the plush sectional seating with two moveable ottomans and an adjustable table.
The raised berth forward can be quickly closed off with retractable curtains to form a private owner's stateroom with plenty of storage beneath without negatively impacting the amount of available seating. The mid-cabin area can also be quickly converted with curtains to create guest sleeping quarters from the convertible midship sofa. The entire area is kept comfortable via the 16,000 BTU air condition/heat for maximum temperature control no matter what the outside weather.
As rendezvous can be messy affairs, a central vacuum system keeps things neat. The head and shower are larger than expected and feature a porcelain Vacu-Flush head with separate shower, as well as a chic sink and solid surface vanity that are as efficient as they are stylish.
Socializing topside is facilitated by abundant seating in the form of several conversational groupings including a large U-shaped settee with fill-in cushions that border the aft deck. To port is a beverage center with a compact refrigerator, sink, built-in blender, and plenty of countertop space. In keeping with the fine fit and finish, all drink holders are stainless steel. Additional seating comes in the form of a double helm seat and a double companion seat to the side of the spacious helm area. Aquaflex vinyl and a 40-ounce carpet over the fiberglass liner give the area a sophisticated ambience. Just aft, the extended swim platform with courtesy lights and deep-reach ladder with wide steps results in convenient access to the water and/or other boats when rafted up to form a swim platform sidewalk.
While many boats feature sunpads on the foredeck, most of them in this size range are not easy to reach. The 378 takes care of that problem by placing molded steps on the side of the helm that lead directly to the windscreen opening for safe and easy sunpad access. The foredeck can also be accessed via the side decks which offer handholds on the radar arch as well as a protective bow rail.
The boat is as easy to operate as it is sleek-looking. The helm enjoys a spacious burlwood instrument panel with room for all the necessary electronics and gauges, while offering the captain excellent visibility whether standing or sitting. The battery management panel is conveniently mounted just inside the cockpit door, making it easy to access first thing after boarding. It's placed to be one of the last parts of the boat passed when closing up for the evening. An emergency start combines the power of all four onboard batteries via a solenoid for engine-starting current, even if the kids have left the radio and lights on for too long.
The engine is easily accessed through the large hatch in the cockpit sole and easily accommodates gas or diesel power, including Volvo-Penta's revolutionary IPS drives. Filters, dipsticks and batteries are conveniently placed for inspection and maintenance. The fuel tank selector allows both engines to be run off either the port or stardboard tank, if needed.
The 378 was designed with family fun in mind. An unexpected standard feature is the color-matched canvas camper system that connects to the radar arch to turn the deck into a fully-protected entertaining area in windy conditions. Options include various navigational packages, a hard top, bow thruster, sundeck pads, and Flexiteak surfacing in the cockpit and on the swim platform, and a satellite TV system, if the hardtop option is chosen.
With all the comforts of home, and the maneuverability of a speedy express cruiser, the Four Winns 378 Vista is just waiting to motor in safety and high-style to the nearest rendezvous it can find.