SEA TRIAL, BAYLINER 742 CUDDY

Bayliner 742 arrives with the not-so-easy mission to replace the “old” 702 model, one of the best sellers of the American brand, with the new style parameters of the range, renovated since the 642 model.

In USA the most appreciated models are those ones with bow-rider deck (like, for example, in the 210 model by Cobalt, a brand of Brunswick Group) but in Italy the most loved models are those ones of Cuddy range, characterised by a small shelter on the bow. On model 742 this shelter is ideal for two people and it includes a small sitting room and a bathroom, too. But what we love the most is the functionality of the deck, conceived after a long construction experience.

In addition to this, we particularly appreciate: the central passage in the windscreen to reach the bow (53 cm wide), with some steps obtained on the gate to get the lower deck (it slides laterally and, when it is closed, it disappears under the console).

As usual, the cockpit is perfectly convertible; so, it can be used to have lunch or to sunbathe without difficulties ( a central table which can be disassembled, with a central leg and then two beach chairs: one on the left, obtained from the small sofa running along the topside, and another one on the poop). The cockpit is also equipped with a small but useful kitchen, with a fridge, a stove plate and a washbasin. The poop dash-board is 230 x 60 cm and you get it through two steps on the right.

On the bow, “downstairs” there is enough space for two small sofas with a table in the middle. They can be converted into a double berth. Dimensions are good enough: the bed is 280×180 cm, the maximum height is 108 cm. Under one of the two sofas, you can have a standard chemical toilet, which is an extra in the “marine” version.

Light, with only one petrol engine and a precise tested hull, boat 742 is fast (it can reach over 38 knots) and funny to drive. During navigation, the hull wave leaves behind and, all in all, the boat drags little water. The driver’s desk is very comfortable (another Bayliner’s product) and this leads us to speed up.

Without exaggerating, this Bayliner  is very moderate: the best performance, in terms of miles travelled with a litre of petrol, is at 3.000 revolutions and 21 knots, with 26 litres/hour consumption. The travelling speed is 34 knots (68 l/h), while the low-cost cruise one is about 27/28 up to 38 litres a hour. And, at this speed, comfort and softness (a soft hull and an excellent engine compartment insulation) are excellent.

Bayliner 742 Cuddy : Numbers and performances

Bayliner 742 Cuddy: TECHNICAL FILE