RANIERI CAYMAN 23 SPORT. COMPLETE SEA TRIAL

Over the past seasons there has been a constant increase in investment by yards historically involved in the production of fiberglass boats towards the world of ribs while, vice versa, more and more brands specialized in the construction of rubber boats have opened to pure “plastic”.

One among the first groups which has taken that step and showed that it was not only possible but also an excellent idea at a time of crisis and necessary differentiated investments has been Ranieri International. In addition to its 33 fiberglass models, the Calabrian yard offers, in fact, a new Cayman range: 11 ribs ranging from 18 up to 31 feet.

We tested the Cayman 23 Sport in Baveno, Lake Maggiore, in collaboration with Evinrude, which made its new E-TEC G2 150, 150 HO, 175 and 200 engines available to journalists two years later the launch of the powerful 200 and 300 HP models. The 23 Sport  is also available in other two versions: Diving (with a larger fore section and a smaller console) and Touring (with a larger console hiding a small compartment).

THE DECK
The starting point is the large fore sundeck, roomy and well-refined even in the hidden locker underneath, which proves to be accessible and easy to clean. We also liked the fiberglass support for the robust and well-arranged anchor winch.

In order to enhance the space of the aft dinette, the pilot’s seat is downgraded to a simple backseat for driving while standing. It hides a closet which can be completed with sink, grill and a small refrigerator. The transom bench turns into a sun bed, whose fiberglass sides are covered with a stuffed cushion. The stern bridge is equipped with two large lateral platforms, the left one of which offers a retractable stepladder in line with the passage forwards.

The console is well-arranged and clean. In particular, we liked the robust handrail running around the windshield which, in its turn, offers a good shelter from wind, useful even for taller pilots. The pilot’s seat is comfortable and overlooks the fore sun deck.

SEA TRIAL

As mentioned above, we had the opportunity to test Cayman 23 Sport with the new Evinrude G2 150 HP engine.
Compared to the more powerful 200 and 300 HP versions – with which they share the same aggressive design and the possibility to choose from a wide range of colours – the new 150, 175 and 200 HP engines are always direct-fuel-injected two-stroke V6 outboards but with a 66-degree-cylinder bank inclination (instead of a 74-degree one), an engine size of 2,744 cc, a reduction ratio of 2,17:1, a 86 x 78,7 mm bore and stroke, and a weight of 240 kg (200 and 175 HP) and 225 kg (150 HP). They, too, offers a trim automatic power control we used during our test.

We registered good performances, although the 150 HP solution is quite cautious (the maximum horsepower range is 250 hp): we could say the perfect option for a cost-conscious family man. More than satisfactory the maximum speed, 42 knots, even if the rib gives the very best of itself at 4,500 revolutions (economical cruising speed) and at about 5,000 revolutions (fast cruising speed) sailing at 32 and 36.2 knots respectively with a consumption of just 34 and 40 l/h.

We particularly appreciated the good bottom design and the perfect hull-tubulars interaction. The rib turns sharply even at fast pace and proves to have a great stability. Moreover, the electronic BRP throttles ensure a pleasant controlled fuel supply.

Finally, new G2 engines offers the possibility to enjoy an “additional virtual dashboard”aboard. Called E-Link, it allows to display and check some important engine functions directly from a mobile device. It shares the data on a NMEA 2000 network through any Android o iOs device.

The Evinrude E-Link carries out a mirroring of the data displayed on the serial ICON Touch screen, by providing some essential information, such as engine speed, fuel consumption, oil and fuel levels, battery tension and water depth.

Cayman 23 Sport – Technical Specifications

Cayman 23 – Sea trial

Minimum surfing speed: 9.5 knots at 2,500 revolutions. Acceleration: 0-2,7’’; 0- 26’’ (automatic trim control).
Conditions of the test: 5 passengers, flat lake. Fuel: 50%; water tank: empty.