Rinker 232 Captiva Cuddy: Works Night and Day

A number of power packages are offered for the 232 Captiva Cuddy that should enable it to run in the middle to high 50-mph range.

Let's be blunt: Cuddy cabins in boats less than 25 feet long are mostly for show. Sure, you can sleep there in a pinch or just hide out from an afternoon squall. But slumber in comfort? Forget about it.

The V-berth in the cabin has enough space for two adults.

The Rinker 232 Captiva Cuddy presents an exception. Three plush cushions comprise the V-berth of the 23-foot-6-inch-long, 8-foot-6-inch-wide boat, and the result is honest-to-goodness sleeping space for two adults. Directly above the berth, an extra-large rectangular deck hatch, with a screen to keep out unwanted creatures, lets in plenty of fresh air. The cabin also features a portable head, a sink and a stove, fixed lights and plenty of stowage space.

A flip-up bottom on the starboard bucket seat enhances forward visibility for drivers.

Knowing that you'll likely spend more time in the cockpit than in the cabin, Rinker outfitted the boat with twin swiveling bucket seats and a four-person bench. Neatly arranged around the tilt steering wheel is an assortment of backlit instruments as well as a compass and a depthsounder. There also is a Clarion AM/FM cassette stereo.

Ahead of the co-pilot's bucket to port is a locking glove box. For added security when the ride gets rough, there is a stainless-steel grab handle mounted on the port gunwale.

Standard power is the 220-horespower MerCruiser 5.0-liter engine with an Alpha drive. For those who want more punch for the 4,215-pound boat, a number of more potent engines up to the 385-horsepower MerCruiser 454 Magnum MPI are offered. Fuel capacity is 75 gallons.