Boat Review: Regulator 41

I always thought of Regulator boats as “overbuilt,” a term I use to ­describe boats made to excel even in the worst of conditions. But after testing the new 41 center console, I’m compelled to add the words “bold” and ­“beautiful” to my definition of this terrific merger of fishability, ­elegance and comfort.

The boat was designed for folks looking to move up to gain horsepower and range, as well as those downsizing from a larger convertible ­— requiring a crew — to a ­single-operator scenario without giving up amenities. The only power package available is four Yamaha F350 V-8s, which provide head-snapping zip and peak performance.

With convenience in mind, a large finished compartment in the bow comes with a Lewmar windlass with remote control and freshwater washdown.

The expansive forward casting deck doubles as a lounge and entertainment area, where a reclining pedestal table, seats with adjustable backrests and ample cup holders are perfect for a sunset happy hour. Insulated and lockable, 216-quart compartments hide underneath, while a gigantic 624-quart box in the centerline deck stows away extra rods and loads of gear, including bulky items like anchor buoys and fenders.

The console on the Regulator 41 is massive. It affords a commanding view from the helm, and it harbors a huge forward console seat with cushioned leg support. An ­approaching squall didn’t allow me to try it out while underway, but it’s certainly a step up from the customary cooler seat. The forward section of the console lifts vertically, ­opening another sizable storage compartment, with molded receptacles for up to three 5-gallon buckets.

A long list of desired features comes standard, so the combo tackle center/­cockpit galley on the test boat is among the few available options, and it’s one I would definitely order. Its two-­section sink and rigging ­center is augmented by several drawers with tackle trays and catchall compartments. The starboard half features a mini-galley with electric grill and refrigerator.

Bolstered helm seats ensconce the skipper and passengers for a comfortable and commanding perch with the centerline Edson wheel. Our test boat was equipped with the Yamaha Helm Master joystick control, which makes it very easy to dock, hold position over a fishing spot or back down on a hot fish. A factory-installed ­Raymarine electronics ­package comes with three 16-inch touch-screen displays.

The standard fiberglass hardtop includes an overhead electronics box, molded spreader lights and a rocket launcher built right into the aft framework. Taco Grand Slam outriggers and a dual-station tower, complete with full controls and its own hardtop, are optional.

Six stainless rod holders are mounted in the covering boards, and wraparound coaming pads extend throughout. Should the catch require more than the fish-box space forward, a split hatch on the transom opens to an 84-gallon box to which a chiller plate can be added. Matching livewells outboard, both insulated and lighted, hold 40 gallons each.

The 41’s creature comforts extend below deck, where a cavernous space is beautifully accented with wood and lit by ambient and LED ­lighting. A 10,000 BTU air conditioner and reverse heat (with helm vents), an 8 kW Fischer Panda diesel generator and a 60-gallon freshwater tank come standard.

The dining table converts to a roomy filler berth for two forward. The well-appointed galley comes with a refrigerator, microwave, sink and inductive cooktop. The stand-up head is roomy — more than 7 feet of clearance — and elegant. It’s equipped with Corian countertop, a mirror, a hot-water shower and electric head with a 13-gallon holding tank.

All the appointments aside, this family-friendly boat is also a serious fishing vessel and an absolute pleasure to drive. The deep-V design sports wide down-turn chines, a 24-degree deadrise for a soft and sure ride and an extended engine bracket to span the waves and keep everyone dry. The boat planes on two engines and runs in the 50s with three. Fully loaded, with four people on board, we nearly hit 58 mph into the wind and chop. But in an earlier Yamaha performance test, the 41 topped at 63.5 mph. If your float plans call for fast, long-distance jaunts offshore and you want a boat with plenty of fishing amenities and comfort features, the Regulator 41 deserves serious consideration.