The Rodman 890 Ventura is put through its paces in a grizzily Solent sea trial. Is it a true year-round option for those who go whatever the weather?
The conditions in Portsmouth were as if they had been employed to help the Rodman 890 Ventura shine.
Windy, cold and drizzly – this is when you wear a smug grin as those in open boats wrap up tight in layers of clothing and head into the mist.
Not on the 890 Ventura where thanks to a wheelhouse, closed doors aft and adjacent to the helm and heating you can still get your boating fix.
Amazingly, the 890 is the first Rodman model for the leisure market fitted with outboards and the options on offer from UK agent RBS Marine are mind boggling. Our test boat had the highest powered twin 200hp Mercury motors and topped out just short of 40 knots.
If you are upgrading from an open boat then – as well as shelter – having a proper toilet compartment and two large berths will be a real perk, even if there’s a lack of privacy and storage could be improved.
Prices for the 890 Ventura start from just over £85,000. You can read the test in the May 2016 issue of Motor Boat & Yachting.
Rodman 890 Ventura review
The Rodman 890 Ventura is the first outboard powered boat that the Spanish yard has made for the leisure market.
£86400
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