Stingray’s New 208LR: Right-Sized, Optimal-Sized or Smart-Sized?
Right-sized, optimal-sized or smart-sized – any one phrase, or all three, can be used to describe the new 208LR since it’s really, only a matter of semantics. And, when used in this context, any one or all three typically describe a move to a leaner, greener and more competitively featured model. Consider Stingray’s 208, a model that offers more “stuff” in just the right-sized or, is it optimal sized or smart-sized package?
At 20’ 8” length overall (LOA) and a beam of 100 inches, the 208 incorporates contemporary styling with numerous on-board amenities particularly, when you consider that the interior cockpit width has been increased by 8-inches over that of Stingray’s 205. The result is a larger than life 20-foot boat with performance to boot.
“Leaner:” A view from the side offers one of the most telling looks that the boat has to offer. The style lines are clean and lean for a sleek, performance look. Rising from the transom, the sheer line follows a similar route to the bow as that of new 215 and 235 models – a somewhat, decidedly mix of traditional and European design. A three dimensional domed hull graphic, located amidships in the center style line, adds sizzle, class and brand recognition to highlight this exceptional design.
“Greener:” Stingray uses only three-star rated, four-cycle engines, which are the cleanest and most fuel efficient available for marine use. Three-star engines can be four to ten times cleaner (greener) than two-cycle outboard engines which translates into less pollution to the environment. The 208LR is no exception. Equipped exclusively with a 4.3L fuel injected power plant, the 208 delivers a solid 50+ MPH performance @ WOT throttle with a fuel efficiency rating that is hard to beat. Couple fuel efficiency with the performance efficiency offered by this next generation Z-plane hull and you have a truly, “green” boat suited to benefit the environment for years to come.
More Competitive Features:
Bow: You will immediately notice the difference in the width of the bow from a more traditionally designed Stingray. Its wider stance allows room for a companionway entrance complete with boarding ladder and anchor locker; all neatly tucked below a non-skid lid. Navigational lights sit on either side of the companionway for optimal lighting and are recessed for out-of-the-way protection. The stainless steel accented horn is located on the forward bow, starboard side for optimal sound. An optional audio remote can be conveniently mounted to the starboard side of the companionway for easy access.
And, an optional wash down / shower can be fitted into the anchor locker.
A four and a half inch pull-up bow cleat is located in the center of the deck just below the companionway entrance. A great feature when you consider securing the anchor, pivoting on the anchor or tying off at the beach.
As you enter the boat from the bow, an integrated non-skid step actually doubles as the lid for the built-in cooler with overboard drain. Other entertainment features include twin 100-watt, water-resistant marine speakers mounted in the bow side panels and two stainless steel accented cup holders on either side of the cooler.
The bow seat cushions are covered with 36 oz vinyl with Pre-Fixx protectant and rest on curved fiberglass seat bases. The top surface of each base features a raised rain “lip” to channel as much water as possible over the side rather than allowing intrusion into the compartments. The storage areas underneath are carpeted and cavernous to protect and hold a large number of on-board accessories. The curved seating arrangement provides for a wider walkway, room for passengers preferring to sit opposite one another and easier access to the table when positioned in the bow. Optional, bow filler cushions quickly convert the seating area to a full sun pad.
Cockpit: It’s hard to view the cockpit from any vantage point without noticing the non-skid, full fiberglass liner floor. This one feature makes for a quick and easy cleanup at the end of the day. If you want to dress it up a little – order the optional, snap-in carpet for an enhanced look. However, before you lay the carpet, take a look inside the in-floor water sports locker. With a stainless steel shock assist, forward mounted stainless steel hinges and external latch, the locker is not only easy to access but large enough for some water toys. Twin doors on either console open to reveal oversized storage with the same pass-thru to the under seat storage in the bow.
Driver’s side helm: The 208 features a two-tier dash and Steel Burl instrument panels. The upper dash panel houses a full compliment of back-lit gauges with a 4-in-1 gauge in the center. This 4-in-1 gauge monitors fuel, oil, engine temperature and volts. Just to the right of this gauge is the tachometer with built-in digital hour meter – a feature on every Stingray boat for keeping track of engine hours for service intervals or for re-sale. The lower panel houses the remote audio display and key switch to the left. Rocker switches fill the right panel for operation of all onboard accessories. There’s even a standard Ritchie compass. The helm seat is stylish and designed with ergonomics in mind. With a flip-up feature, the operator can sit or stand as conditions dictate. If a cool breeze is what you need, windshield side vents open outward and lock in various positions for increased wind flow. Convenience/entertainment consoles: The passenger side dash is also two-tiered with an AM/FM Stereo/CD player located inside the upper tier, locking glove box. The tier below, covered by a locking storage lid, is flat and reveals a deep storage compartment beneath; the perfect place for miscellaneous boating items – suntan lotion, sun glasses, keys, etc. Both the operator and the passenger enjoy a dual set of stainless steel accented cup holders recessed below each side panel with a tray for your onboard collectibles. A set of stainless steel accented cup holders provide convenience for those seated on the port side lounge or rear bench seat. A 100-watt speaker is housed in this same port-side recess.
Rear cockpit seating: L-shaped seating, comprised of a portside lounge and bench seat, provides ample room for family and friends. While under seat compartments provide numerous opportunities for storage, Stingray has also added custom storage space specific to several on-board amenities i.e. a rectangular, fiberglass table is neatly “battened” down and stowed out of the way under the rear sundeck along with the stern light pole. And the bench seat storage area is home to the table pedestal leg. Remove the table and pedestal from their stowed positions. Mount them in the cockpit or bow depending on your mood, and in a matter of minutes, you are set-up to enjoy your favorite drinks or snacks. Starboard of the bench seat just beneath the walk -thru, an optional battery on/off switch can be installed for easy access.
Sundeck: Open the sundeck with ease with the center located hood latch. Shock assists take over to raise the sundeck to its optimum height. Dual LED lights illuminate the engine compartment. With the sundeck in its closed position the perfect spot is created for sunbathing particularly, when you order the optional walk-thru filler cushion.
Cleats/docking lights: The top deck reveals seven stainless steel pull-up cleats—one in the center of the bow, two cleats forward, two “spring” cleats amidships, and two cleats strategically located aft. Twin step pads, positioned on deck at side boarding points, help to improve footing during the boarding process. Swim platform/walk-thru: The swim platform is oversized, completely integrated and leads to a 15” wide, curved companionway located to starboard. The platform features twin cup holders, a center pole stern light mount, remote trim and tilt, 2-inch fuel fill with stainless steel cap, stainless steel grab rail, water sports compartment, three-step boarding ladder with non-skid hatch, optional stereo remote and optional transom shower – all designed with convenience in mind. As you step into the cockpit, a non-skid hinged lid with integrated cooler beneath makes entry and exit a breeze.
LED Interior cockpit/companionway lighting: Planning on some nighttime cocktails or, just after-hours conversation? The 208 comes with five interior cockpit / walk-thru lights and five more lights incorporated in the side panel inserts and the engine compartment.
The 208 is “perfectly-sized” for a week-end on the water with family and friends! 6/4/10
