It was a rough ­wintertime crossing of the Gulf Stream as we powered to the fabled fishing grounds of the Bahamas aboard a pair of Sōlace 41-foot center-­consoles. The 41 CS was powered by four Mercury 400 outboards. The 415 CS featured twin Volvo Penta D6 DPI diesel ­sterndrives. One boat made a better time of it. 

This trip was the latest in a string of “Outboard Versus Sterndrive” stories I’d produced over my decades working as a boating and fishing journalist. As in the past, we had planned to compare, out on the water, the different power choices available to boat buyers so that a better-informed purchasing decision could be made. The biggest challenge in producing these “versus” stories is getting access to two of the same-model boat powered by different engines. In Sōlace Boats, we had a great common denominator: These 41-foot hulls are designed and built to the highest standards and can be had with your choice of gas outboard or diesel sterndrive power. Giddyap!

Most of you will recognize that beyond propulsion type, this story also compares fuel type. The outboard Sōlace 41 CS burned gasoline, while diesel fueled the sterndrive-powered 415 CS. Here’s what we discovered regarding seakeeping, fishability, and ownership issues such as maintenance, fuel ­economy, and price.

Speed and Acceleration

We loaded both boats to the hilt with people, gear, camera equipment, and provisions for a week among the islands. The DPI-powered 415 CS hit 50.6 mph at wide-open throttle. Accelerating to 30 mph took 12.2 seconds. Each DPI turns a stainless-steel H8 Duoprop propset (Volvo Penta does not reveal Duoprop prop pitch) consisting of two ­contra-rotating propellers spinning through a 1.69-to-1 reduction. So this Volvo Penta D6 DPI diesel propulsion package spins four propellers—two inline pairs.

The outboard-powered Sōlace 41 CS hit 62.7 mph at wide-open throttle and reached 30 mph in 14.5 seconds. Each of the four outboards spins a 14.6-by-21-inch four-blade prop through a 1.75-to-1 reduction. That’s four individual propellers for this outboard-propulsion package.

“Exhilarating” describes the outboard-powered boat’s top speed, a result of more power and more available bow trim. “Surprising” describes our initial reaction regarding the superior acceleration of the boat powered by the Volvo Penta DPI diesels. We attributed this off-the-line performance to the D6’s high torque at low rpm and the Duoprop’s ability to transmit that diesel torque to the water better than conventional props. Finally, the reduced drag of two versus four gear cases helped. Still, if the need for top speed is strong with you, then the outboards win. 

Efficiency and Range

Because the power and torque characteristics of gas and diesel engines—as well as inboards and outboards—vary, it is helpful to make efficiency comparisons using boatspeed as well as rpm.

At 25 mph, the outboard boat netted 0.53 mpg and the ­Volvo Penta boat netted 1.13 mpg. At 30 mpg, the gas boat netted 0.6 mpg and the diesel boat 1.28 mpg. At 40 mph, we recorded 0.63 mpg and 1.2 mpg, respectively. ­Basically, the ­diesel boat featured twice the efficiency.

Note that the outboard-­powered 41CS carries 681 gallons of fuel, and the 415 CS carries 457 gallons. Also note that each D6 engine with a DPI drive weighs about 1,760 pounds dry, whereas each Mercury 400 Verado weighs in at 670 pounds dry. Bear in mind that an outboard’s power rating describes prop-shaft power, and an inboard’s power rating describes crankshaft power. Each Volvo Penta D6 DPI ­delivers 422 hp at the prop.

It became apparent the ­minute we arrived at Abaco Harbor Resort that the Volvo Penta 415 CS offered much more range than the Verado-­powered 41CS. The 415 CS still possessed plenty of fuel after making the ­215-mile run from Palm Beach. The gas-powered 41CS needed to fuel up so as to have enough fuel to safely conduct our tests over a ­couple of days. Diesel power lends this boat some 40 ­percent more range.

Seakeeping

We headed offshore from the Florida coast into the teeth of a stiff headwind that generated 4- to 6-foot seas right on our nose. Both Sōlace models handled the waves safely and with confidence. But our test teams agreed that the Aquamatic-powered 415 CS made easier work of it. Unlike its outboard-powered counterpart with the engine weight aft, the D6 diesel engines turn the DPI drives using jack shafts, which allows installing the engines forward of the transom, under the cockpit sole. Moving the center of gravity results in the 415 CS running more level and with less pitching. The 415 CS handled rough water better.

On balance, we also discovered that the outboard-powered boat offered more bow trim for those times when one wants to optimize the ride for running in a following sea or ­trying to maximize speed. And the outboard-powered boat proved quieter (65 versus 68 decibels), especially at trolling speeds, though the Volvo Penta boat was by no means loud.

We test for minimum planing speed because the ability to slow down while retaining the maneuverability and dynamic stability provided by planing allows for better control and more comfort in rough conditions than having to slow to trolling speed. The Volvo Penta-powered boat netted a slight edge here, holding plane at 15 mph versus the Mercury boat, which held plane as slow as 17 mph. Know that both are excellent numbers.

Docking

Both Volvo Penta and Mercury offer joystick systems for slow-speed close-quarters operation of the boats they power. Both systems worked well in gusty, tidal Bahamian winter conditions. Do note that as we went to press, Volvo Penta introduced Assisted Docking for DPI, an updated version of its joystick system that uses DPS and special software. I sea-trialed the system (aboard the exact same 415 CS detailed in this story). The big ­takeaway? It takes the “drift” out of joystick maneuvering and sets a new bar in close-quarters-­maneuvering systems. 

The Mercury outboards tilt completely clear of the water. Additionally, the outboards are made from a corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy, bonded to control the electrical potential, and feature a multistep coating process called MerCathode. Their successful operation in salt water is long-proven.

“These are not your daddy’s marine engines,” Volvo Penta’s Arjen Steegstra states. The DPI drives are made from a special alloy, bonded to control electrical potential and fitted with sacrificial anodes. The stainless-steel propsets are isolated to prevent corrosion, and a special coating protects the drive. Furthermore, an impressed current anti-corrosion system, the same one that has protected Volvo Penta IPS for years, thwarts the ravages on water-stored boats.

The D6 diesel engines are freshwater-cooled, made from a corrosion-resistant alloy, protected by sacrificial anodes, and specially painted. Volvo Penta D6 diesel engines boast a long history of saltwater service.

Effect on Layout

From the console forward, both of these Sōlace boats are the same, offering private overnight accommodations for a couple, and a comfortable head and shower belowdecks. A large multipurpose bow cockpit forward combines seating with stowage, and functionality for fishing, anchoring and docking is as good as can be found. Aft is where the layout changes. With four outboards mounted on the transom, the cockpit of the 41CS affords a tremendous 83-square-foot unobstructed cockpit. Highlights include twin livewells in the aft corners, and a huge transom fish box to complement those in the aft cockpit sole and the bow space. There is mezzanine seating atop the tackle station/entertainment center, with its stowage, sink and optional grill. There’s hideaway bench seating for three at the transom, and with the huge cockpit and stowage space below the sole—which swallowed provisions for six for a week—the 41CS boasts plenty of room to stow folding chairs and beanbags. The solid transom provides great security for fighting a fish in rough seas. Water access for crew or hauling aboard a big fish is through a generous portside door. This is a fishing cockpit. 

The Volvo Penta-powered 415 CS sports twin D6 diesel engines installed in the cockpit, leaving two broad walkways to a transom that is wide open for water access or easy dockside boarding and entertaining. The actual engine box is a plush convertible lounge that allows guests to recline, sit facing forward or aft, or lie completely prone. Unobstructed cockpit space is smaller than that aboard the 41CS—about half the size between the entertainment center and the base of the lounge. You must add in the walkways, though, because they provide another 24 or so square feet of usable space on both sides of the lounge; we had no trouble working rods in the aft corner’s rod holders while trolling. 

I will say that the doors that close off each ­walkway on the 415 CS are less ­secure compared with the solid bulwark found aboard the 41CS. ­Excepting the transom livewells and fish box, the fishing ­accoutrements are the same. The in-sole stowage is smaller aboard the 415 CS, but still plenty big. In short, this is a multiuse cockpit optimized for entertaining and ease of water access that can fish too.

Key Takeaways

There’s little question that the gasoline-fueled outboard engine currently ranks as the most popular power choice for large center-consoles. They run quietly and virtually smoke-free. They deliver outstanding power for their weight, along with low drag and trimmable thrust, all of which contribute to their great efficiency. 

That said, I not only fished the Volvo Penta D6 DPI diesel-­powered Sōlace in the ­Bahamas, but also fished it during another multiday trip to the boisterous waters of Nantucket Shoals, Massachusetts. (We absolutely slammed the striped bass!) From these experiences, I can say that diesel sterndrive power is an option that offshore anglers seeking more range and improved seakeeping should seriously consider.

A Tale of Two CCs: Sōlace 41CS and 415 CS

Sōlace is a company founded on open-minded adoption of new materials and processes, many of which have set new industry benchmarks. This is tempered by decades of experience in fiberglass boatbuilding, what the company calls “The Dougherty Difference,” a reference to the current -president, Stephen Dougherty, and his late father, Bob Dougherty. In short, a Dougherty has helmed four different award-winning and iconic boat companies.

With the 41CS and the 415 CS, all of that imagination, vision, experience and expertise is wrought in molded fiberglass. These boats ride a twin-stepped hull that we have experienced to be seakindly, efficient, fun to run, and free from quirks—from New England to South Florida and beyond.

• LOA: 44’3″
• Beam: 12’3″
• Transom Deadrise: 22 degrees

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Solace Boats is proud of what it calls the “Dougherty difference.” Bob Dougherty, head of Boston Whaler, moved its plant from Massachusetts to Florida in 1982. He raised his son Stephen “with resin on his hands,” and the pair launched Edgewater Boats in 1992, and Everglades Boats a decade later.

Stephen and Sarah ­Dougherty founded Dougherty Manufacturing in 2012 and by 2021 had launched three Solace boat models. The line now includes five boats from 30 to 41 feet in length.

Engineered to harness the heightened horsepower of today’s high-performance outboard engines, Solace’s center-console boat line offers options including either diesel or Mercury or Yamaha gasoline engines. 

Solace produces its boats and most components at its 200,000-square-foot ­campus in Edgewater, Florida.

Solace 30 HCS

The smallest in the Solace line, the 30 HCS (hybrid center step) is nonetheless the industry’s largest hybrid bay boat, designed for both offshore fishing adventures and island days.

The 30 HCS’ gunwale height is medium, good for both inshore and offshore boating. The boat has a unique back-to-back transom seat and port and starboard doors that open to a large swim platform. Total cockpit area is a generous 34 square feet. Its full cabin has a bunk to welcome overnight stays and horizontal rod storage for nine rods. Cushions on the boat are secured with magnets, and the console windshield opens fully.

The stepped hull with its carbon-fiber construction and twin Mercury Verados (up to 400 hp V-10s) produce impressive speed, agility and efficiency.

The 30 HCS boasts two 35-gallon in-floor fish boxes, a pair of 30-gallon livewells and transom-mounted rod holders. Angler-pleasing options include Gemlux outriggers with 18-foot ­carbon-fiber poles, dual ­Power-Poles, a trolling motor and jack plates. A second station cobia tower is available to provide breathtaking views and fishing efficiency.  

Other features include underwater lights and wraparound and cockpit front lounge seating.

Editor’s Tip 

Solace made good use of what is typically wasted space with a thoughtfully designed transom bench that sits atop the stern livewells. It features two cushioned seats with armrests and an innovative backrest that pivots to let crewmembers face fore or aft. -Joe Albanese, Executive Editor Salt Water Sportsman

Performance Data

• Test Power: Twin Mercury 400 hp
• Test Props: Rev4 14 5⁄8 x 19
• Test Load: (w/632 lb. fuel, 80 gal. water, 600 people and gear, second station) 10,312 lb.
• Test Speed: 35 mph at 4,000 rpm
• Max Range: 260 mi.

Specifications

SŌLACE – Edgewater, Florida; solaceboats.com

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Meet the Solace 41CS, a center console boat that redefines the standards of family and fishing features.

Some of the notable features include the classic SŌLACE electric windshield, a strong cockpit fighting chair/rocket launcher, a versatile bow seating area, a luxurious cabin complete with an enclosed shower and head, and a thoughtfully designed cockpit perfect for both fishing and entertainment.

The Solace 41CS is not just a family fishing boat; it’s a true contender in the tournament fishing arena. With its cutting-edge features and exceptional performance, this boat is guaranteed to raise fish.

Come along as Editor-at-Large, Randy Vance walks through the range of innovations that this CC brings to the table.

For more information on the Solace 41CS, visit solaceboats.com.

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Solace traces its roots to Bob Dougherty’s design work at Boston Whaler, where son Stephen worked on the assembly line. 

The Dougherty father-and-son team would found EdgeWater Power Boats, then Everglades Boats. In 2012, Stephen and Sarah Dougherty formed Dougherty Manufacturing, fabricating fiberglass components for boatbuilders and industrial and entertainment venues before launching Solace Boats in 2019—the next year winning Boating Magazine’s Boat of the Year and the NMMA Innovation Award.

Solace 30 HCS

A center-console/bay-boat blend, the 30 HCS (hybrid center step) offers high-performance luxury and comfort.

The boat has a twin-stepped, ventilated, variable-deadrise hull with tracking chine rails. Power comes from twin Mercury V-8 300Rs, 400 Verados, or V-8 450Rs; the V-6 with Joystick; and JPO joystick with autopilot as an option for any.  

Fishing is front-of-mind, as attested by a pair of 30-gallon livewells, two 35-gallon in-floor fish boxes, tackle storage in the workstation and beneath gunwales, and a sink and 108-quart Frigid Rigid cooler in the workstation. There’s vertical rod and gaff storage in the head compartment. 

Options include a stand-through upper station and Gemlux Deluxe outriggers with 18-foot carbon-fiber poles.

For family fun and comfort, bow and cockpit shades are available, and the cabin boasts 6-foot-2-inch headroom, teak accents and steps, Chilewich flooring, and a head with sink and Corian countertops. 

Seating is generous, with bow cushions secured by stainless-steel magnets. Lounge seating ahead of the console features density-specific foams. Sit-on-transom seating can face fore or aft. 

Manufacturer’s Remark

The 30 HCS is designed to be a great inshore fishing boat and a well-equipped offshore boat.

Performance Data

• Test Power: Twin Merc 400 hp Verado
• Test Props: Rev4 14 ⁵⁄₈” x 19”
• Test Load: 73 gal. fuel, 80 lb. water, two people (500 lb.), 100 lb. gear
• Test Speed: 62 mph at  6,800 rpm
• Max Range: 260 miles (90 percent of 187 gal. fuel capacity at 1.5 mpg, 34.2 mph, 4,000 rpm)

Specs

Editor Says

Solace’s 30 HCS is an extreme example of today’s bay-boat evolution. In a few model years, the category has morphed to include models known as hybrids. Deeper cockpits and more-elaborate T-tops and windshields make them adept at crossing over from in- to offshore fishing.  -Jim Hendricks, Staff Editor Boating and Fishing Group

More Info

solaceboats.com

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The newest model in the Solace Boats lineup to date, the new 32 CS combines hardcore fishing features and luxurious touches that every member of the family will love. This 32-foot 7-inch center console features a vacuum-infused carbon fiber and vinyl ester-epoxy resin laminate construction to ensure strength and durability while minimizing weight. It sports an iconic, Dougherty shearline and an in-stem anchor that preserves the stylish aesthetics and minimizes snagged lines and cast nets.

The variable-deadrise, double-stepped V-hull features 21 degrees of deadrise at the transom for an efficient, smooth ride. Twin-outboard power choices range from a pair of Yamaha F300s to a pair of Mercury 450R V-8s. Buyers can also opt for a Yamaha Helm Master EX system or Mercury Joystick Piloting.

Twin 30-gallon livewells reside in each of the stern quarters, and both are pressurized and feature tempered glass lids. There are three insulated fish lockers—a 176-quart box in the transom, as well as 140- and 220-quart lockers under the sole of the aft cockpit. The level, self-bailing deck features a diamond nonskid sole for excellent fishability. An inward-opening side-entry door on the port side of the aft cockpit eases boarding and hauling aboard big tuna or swordfish.

A workstation abaft the helm seating includes a countertop with Corian cutting boards, freshwater sink and faucet, built-in tool holders, tackle drawers and drink station. A custom Frigid Rigid 105-quart fiberglass cooler tucks away and slides out from underneath the station. When pulled out and fitted with the upholstered cooler top, it doubles as an aft-facing seat.

The 32 CS helm is decked out with a pair of deluxe captain’s chairs with flip-up bolsters and arm rests. The helm face features a pair of Garmin 8616 flush-mount 16-inch multifunction displays and a VHF. An Airmar 500-watt chirp transducer with SideVu and ClearVu capabilities comes as standard equipment. Optional electronic upgrades include a Garmin radar, FLIR thermal imaging camera and a 1,000-watt transducer.

An integrated hardtop with a carbon-fiber support structure includes a full-height tempered-glass windshield and side windows. The windshield is electrically operated to fully open at the touch of a switch. Solace offers an optional cobia (stand-through) station with full controls for greater elevation while searching for fish.  

The step-down console interior provides 6 feet, 2 inches of headroom with teak entry steps, Chilewich cabin flooring, a vanity with a Corian counter, freshwater faucet and stainless-steel sink, wood-veneer cabinetry, and an electric marine toilet with an 18-gallon holding tank. A convertible forward berth offers overnighting comfort, and quickly converts with a flip-up rack to securely stow eight fishing rods.

Optional cabin upgrades include a 2,000-watt inverter, microwave, and two electrical outlets and a 12-volt 5,000 BTU air conditioning system.

On the luxury side, you’ll find an inviting contoured lounger for two atop the forward console and a recessed bow seating nook with built-in backrests. In a unique touch you might expect in a Stephen Dougherty-designed Solace boat, an optional forward-facing seat, with a removeable backrest, armrests and five rod holders, installs atop the transom.

Additional highlights of this Stephen Dougherty-designed boat include innovative features and options like the shade system, under-floor cabin extension that enables lockable rod storage, and designated spaces for many items you might carry onto your boat.

Read Next: Solace 41CS: 2022 Boat Buyers Guide

Specifications

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Solace Boats is a relative newcomer—with four decades of roots to the earliest days of its specialty, the center-console boat. 

Former Boston Whaler designer and then owner Bob Dougherty and his son Stephen launched EdgeWater Boats and Everglades Boats. Stephen and his wife, Sarah, began component manufacturer Dougherty Manufacturing before launching Solace, which debuted its first boat in 2019. 

Solace builds its boats and many of their components—and all plugs and tooling—on a 200,000-square-foot campus on 16 acres in Edgewater, Florida. 

Solace 41CS

The new Solace 41CS’ twin-stepped hull is primed for three—or even four—Yamaha or Mercury outboards, hitting speeds into the high 60s ahead of triples and well into the 70s with quads. 

Handling is deft, thanks to reversed, dynamic tracking chines and hydrodynamic release; lightweight strength and rigidity come courtesy of vacuum-infusion with carbon fiber, Innegra and epoxy.

Cushion-topped Frigid Rigid fiberglass coolers provide seating for four in the bow; a lounger at console front adds three more.

Triple helm seats ride on shock-absorbing pedestals. An electrically actuated platform rises 5 inches to increase visibility.

A 16,000 Btu air conditioner serves the helm and well-equipped console cabin. A Quick gyrostabilizer is standard; optional is a Seakeeper 3.

Aft of the helm seats, mezzanine seating contains a tackle center/rigging station that doubles as a summer kitchen. 

In the port and starboard decks, there are 70-gallon fish boxes. Twin 50-gallon livewells are in transom corners, and there are generous additional fish- and gear-storage spaces. Optional, elevated rear seating adds six rod holders to the 29 on the gunwale and transom, plus two on swivels and more on rocket launchers, 30-amp downrigger/kite/deep-drop outlets, and outriggers.

Manufacturer’s Remark

Today you must design boats like Swiss Army knives. A useful tool capable of doing it all.

Performance Data

• Test Power: Triple Yamaha 425 XTO
• Test Props: Yamaha 16 3/8” x 21” XTO Offshore 3 blades   
• Test Load: 20,000 plus 525 gal. fuel, 60 gal. water, five adults   
• Test Speed: 67 mph @ 6,000 rpm
• Max Range: 390 mi. @ 38 mph, 4,000 rpm

Specs

Editor Says

Purpose, performance, comfort and elegance are expertly merged on every Solace model, and the 41CS is a glaring example. On this tournament-caliber ride, the builder’s design team managed to incorporate just about everything a serious offshore angler could want. – Alex Suescun, Executive Editor, Salt Water Sportsman

More Info

solaceboats.com

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Solace co-founder Stephen Dougherty brings what Solace calls the “the Dougherty Difference” to this new company.

The boat-industry veteran has an extensive history with Boston Whaler, and as a co-owner of the EdgeWater and Everglades boat companies. His background and others’ are already reflected in new ideas at Solace: cutting-edge designs, original ideas, and commitment to the customer.

Boats and components are built in a 200,000-square-foot facility in Edgewater, Florida, where the company builds its own plugs and molds. Metal components are made using CNC machining equipment and five-axis waterjet.

The boats incorporate high-strength, lightweight carbon fiber throughout hulls and major support structures, replacing aluminum in such applications as hardtop supports.

The company promises nothing less than a revolution in the market, which is apparent immediately in its first boat, the Solace 345.

Solace 345

One glance is all it takes to appreciate that this is no ordinary center-console V-hull.

Solace’s patented FishThru transom extends aft between two outboards of up to 450 hp each. That maximum outboard spacing places the boat’s keel lowest so that its draft is the same—24 inches—with motors up or down.

A hydraulically actuated swim platform—another first—extends out 4 feet past the transom door, allowing the angler, the company says, to “fight the fish, not the engines.” (The boat carries two length designations: at transom- and at end of FishThru.)

Transom and platform combine to provide effortless access when fishing, swimming, diving or snorkeling.

Fishing features abound, including 10 gunwale-mounted rod holders; only 8 percent of center-console survey -respondents said they need more than that.

The 345 has standard features that are most often options on other boats. They include a Seakeeper 2DC gyrostabilizer, an inverter system, and helm -seating—three plush seats with arms and bolsters—with shock mitigation and hydraulic helm raiser. A stainless-steel refrigerator/freezer centers a workstation with grill, bait-rigging bin, and freshwater sink. Options include a fully outfitted second station.

Twin livewells meet needs of 96 percent of CC survey respondents; and a pair of 7-foot fish boxes await catches.

Survey Says: On Target

⋅Fish-fighting cockpit space is best in class due to transom extension beyond the motors

⋅Pressurized livewells cradle bait in rough water

⋅Abundant rod storage throughout the boat

Brand Says

⋅High-end, custom-style luxury boats

⋅A level that no other can achieve or surpass

More Info: solaceboats.com

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On this August day, the pre-dawn sky above Stuart, Florida, played host to one of humankind’s most advanced feats. While preparing to board my test boat at Pirates Cove Marina, I witnessed a Saturn 5 rocket streak toward space. Launched moments earlier at Cape Canaveral, its billowing contrail was illuminated by rays of a sun still hidden below the horizon. I stood mesmerized, watching the payload slip the surly bonds of Earth.

How apropos, I thought, because this fish trial focuses on one of today’s most advanced ­center-console-boat designs, the Solace 345. The Edgewater, Florida-based brand is new, but its co-founder, CEO and chief designer, Stephen Dougherty, boasts a vaunted boatbuilding pedigree. His father, Bob Dougherty, served for decades as a chief designer for Boston Whaler, then founded EdgeWater Power Boats and ­subsequently Everglades Boats.

Stephen Dougherty developed his design skills at all three companies (and co-owned the latter two), applying out-of-the-box, ­trendsetting ideas to fishing boats. That penchant for innovation has carried over big-time with the launch of the Solace 345.

Looking Astern I was joined on test day by Solace ­president Todd Albrecht; his teenage son, Connor; Solace communications manager John Moe; and Sport Fishing group publisher Scott Salyers. Once aboard the 345, I immediately gravitated to the most prominent feature—the patented FishThru transom design includes a platform that extends aft between and beyond twin outboards that are installed on the outer edges of the hull.

“A lot of people look at the ­transom and think this is a catamaran,” Albrecht said as we cruised out toward St. Lucie Inlet en route to a wreck to catch bait and then head offshore to slow-troll for mahi.

Due to the unique design of the 345, Albrecht finds himself constantly answering questions by onlookers. “I tell them it’s a monohull, and sometimes they don’t seem to believe me.” Indeed, the 345 rides on a deep-V hull with 34 feet of running surface and 22 degrees of deadrise at the transom.

We navigated to the wreck using the twin Garmin GPSMap 8617 ­multi­function displays flush-mounted in the 53-inch-wide dash panel. The fish finder showed large schools of bait over the structure. As we dropped sabiki rigs to catch threadfin herring and small blue runners, I instantly recognized the value of the FishThru transom for working lines around protruding ­outboards, which can prove difficult on conventional extended transoms.

Two anglers can fish side by side on the platform, which features ­23-inch-high gunwales. The deck tapers from 42 inches wide at the transom to 38 inches wide at the aft end. A pair of gunwale rod holders brackets the 52-inch-long platform, which sits above the waterline, so it’s not part of the running surface. It features a beefy dive door and a hydraulic extension that serves as a swim platform, which includes a foldout boarding ladder.

Offshore Run The crew quickly filled the twin ­pressurized 45-gallon livewells with bait; liveys fared extremely well with nary a one dying before its time. These covered wells flank the FishThru transom, and each features an adjacent tuna tube. All are served by an innovative sea chest integrated into the stringer system of the 345.

We stowed the sabiki rods in the hardtop rod holders (there are eight) and transferred the offshore sticks to the three-rod racks on each side of the transom, then headed for blue water.

I wondered how well the ­propellers would stay hooked up, given the engines’ unconventional locations at the outer edges of the hull. This was a nonissue in my test. The props refused to relinquish their bite, even while ­cornering at speed and ­traversing choppy seas.

The 345 trims out like any other outboard-powered V-hull, and it responds promptly to the Zipwake trim-tab system. These vertical tabs are installed, by necessity, inboard of the twin engines.

My test boat came equipped with the optional Seakeeper 2 gyrostabilizer. This DC-powered system eliminates roll. It also keeps the boat on an even keel while underway, and that means you don’t need to use the tabs to correct for weight or load shifts, only to help adjust the trim angle.

As we crested the waves at the inlet and beyond, I could sense the solid construction of the hull, which features a carbon-fiber, Innegra-fiber and epoxy laminate that is vacuum-infused and oven-cured for high strength and durability.

Helm Comfort I joined Albrecht at the helm, ­settling into one of the three high-back Llebroc Billfish chairs, featuring fold-down armrests and bolsters. Each is mounted on a Shockwave S5 base to help enhance comfort in rough seas. A footrest at the base of the console let me prop up my feet.

When it came time to stand, I ­appreciated the extra cushion provided by the SeaDek helm pad with an extra 4 inches of shock-mitigating closed-foam EVA underneath. To top it off, the helm pad sits on a riser that can hydraulically elevate as much as 10 inches for extra height while standing at the wheel.

The wraparound tempered-glass windshield blends seamlessly with the hardtop. The windshield also hinges upward on hydraulic actuators to allow for a cooling breeze on sultry days.

Two Scanstrut Rokk ­wireless, waterproof charging mounts secure cellphones at the helm, and dual glove boxes let you stash small items like car keys, sunglasses and tubes of sunscreen. All switching is digital, including activation of the 345’s hydraulic systems.

Getting High My test boat came equipped with another innovation: the optional half-tower/second station. Its two inviting high-back helm seats come with flip-up bolsters; a carbon-fiber buggy top provides shade, and serves as a mounting surface for antennas and a radar dome. As we arrived at the offshore grounds and the crew set out four live baits (two from the standard Taco composite outriggers and two from flat lines), I decided to ascend to the tower to scout for weed lines, birds and fish.

With a footrest to prop up my feet, this perch aloft proved supremely comfortable and offered a full set of controls, including a second joystick for the standard Yamaha Helm Master docking system and a Garmin GPSMap 7612xsv that is networked with the main MFDs. Those who wish to trailer this boat will appreciate the foldaway feature of the buggy top. “It is very easy to fold up and down,” Albrecht says. “Two people can do it in a few minutes.” For those down on deck, the 345 also features an Amerishade cockpit shade that extends electrically from inside the hardtop. The hardtop rod rack tilts down to allow the shade to deploy.

Luxury Interior While waiting for a bite, I climbed down to check out the rest of the 345, starting with the console ­interior, which is accessible via a portside door with the beefiest stainless-steel hinge I have seen on a boat of this size. It allows the door to articulate to provide wide access and avoid blocking the ­walk-through when opened.Inside, I found 77 inches of headroom and pure luxury in the form of dark wood cabinetry, a vanity with a Corian countertop, an illuminated glass vessel sink, an electric-flush marine toilet, a settee that converts to a berth, a microwave, a 6,000 Btu ­air-­conditioning system, and more.

Back on deck, the 345 abounds with seating. I tried out the 42-inch-long two-person lounger on the forward console, as well as the twin 44-inch-long loungers in the bow. I had to force myself to get up and keep exploring.

Mahi Interruption Aft of the helm seating, I found the 345’s workstation featuring a Corian countertop, cutting board, dual-basin sink with freshwater faucet and shower hose, electric grill, and stainless-­steel drawer fridge/freezer. For additional seating, a three-­person couch hydraulically deploys from within the workstation.

Before I could take a seat, ­however, the starboard rigger line snapped free, and a mahi sprang into the air 75 feet behind the boat. Connor battled the fish, using the padded coaming bolsters along the 27-inch-high gunwales to brace himself. He brought the mahi boatside for a few photos before ­releasing it. We saw more fish under weed lines and continued to slow-troll for a couple more hours, but we found no other takers. So we decided to reel in the lines and put the 345 through its paces.

Numbers Game The twin Yamaha 425 XTOs propelled the 345 to plane in 7 seconds and 30 mph in 13.5 seconds. At 5,700 rpm, top speed was 55 mph, where outboards drank 72 gallons of fuel per hour for 0.76 mpg.

Throttling back, I found the best fuel efficiency at 4,000 rpm and 33.5 mph, where the engines consumed 33 gph for 1.02 mpg, resulting in a range of more than 300 miles based on the 323-gallon fuel capacity.

Read Next: Solace Boats 345 First Glance

The Solace 345 offers so many other features—including abundant ­stowage, retractable washdown hoses, ­folding stern seats, a deluxe sound system, an inverter and full-spectrum LED ­lighting throughout—that it is difficult to describe them all here. Suffice it to say, the Solace provides everything you can imagine in a top-of-the-line ­fishing boat, including the distinction of being one of today’s most innovative ­center‑console fishing boats.

Performance

Power: Twin Yamaha 425 XTO outboards Load: 125 gal. fuel, five crew Top Speed: 55 mph @ 5,700 rpm Time to 30 mph: 13.5 sec. Best MPG: 1.02 @ 33.5 mph (4,000 rpm)

Hull

LOA: 38 ft. (includes FishThru) Beam: 10 ft. 6 in. Transom Deadrise: 22 deg. Dry Weight: 12,000 lb. Draft: 1 ft. 10 in. Fuel: 323 gal. Max Power: 900 hp MSRP: $650,000 (base w/ twin Yamaha 425 XTOs)

Solace Boats Edgewater, Florida 386-302-6287 solaceboats.com

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Solace Boats, a new company started by Stephen Dougherty—whose boatbuilding pedigree includes time spent with Boston Whaler as well as co-ownership of EdgeWater Boats and Everglades Boats—is in the process of launching its first model: the 345. The Florida-based company says this new vessel will change the design of fish boats. One quick glance at the photos tells you this is no ordinary ­center-console V-hull.

One obvious patented feature: the FishThru transom, a platform that extends aft between the two outboards. The hydraulically actuated swim platform—another first—extends out 4 feet past the transom door. The 345 will provide dual, custom 52-gallon ­pressurized livewells with tuna tubes and two drawer-style refrigerators in the bait-prep center.

Read Next: Unusual Fishing Boats from Foreign and Familiar Lands

Also standard is the Seakeeper 3 gyro stabilizer. Buyers won’t need a generator because everything wires to an inverter system. Options include a fully outfitted second station. The 345 will carry 325 gallons of fuel and handle up to 850 horsepower. (Editors’ note: At press time, Solace said that some details were still subject to change.)

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