Recent Reviews . . . .

LAUNCHING AND TRAILERING

The first of the EcoCat up for test was the forward console version, complete with all the bells and whistles. The trailer was a decent galvanised, breakneck model and handled offloading on the beach with ease. Having dropped her into the wash, swinging the bow around was fairly easy for Shaun and I, as was the short push through the shorebreak. The EcoCat FC’s good, shallow draft contributed a lot towards this ease of operation.
Trailering her at the end of the day was also a simple task, as the check chains were set correctly. They enable you to drive the trailer at least halfway in, reducing the distance you need to hand-winch.

MOTORS AND CONTROLS
The ecocat FC was tested with the new model Yamaha 50hp 4-strokes (trim-and-tilt) with 13 pitch props. This particular boat has the new, luxury 704 control boxes which do not come standard with the motors.
The 704 controls are exceptionally smooth, and what’s nice about them is that trimming of the motors can be done simultaneously off one switch, or individually.
Weight-wise, these motors are heavier than standard 2-strokes, but in this case they were well suited to the forward console version because they compensated for the extra bow weight. Another advantage of the 4-strokes is that they run very quietly and have reduced smoke emissions. They are also very economical when it comes to fuel costs.
The EcoCat FC I tested was fitted with a standard cable steering system. For an entry-level craft and to save costs, it is workable, but personally I would rather fit the hydraulic steering system and do away with something else that’s nice to have but not necessary. The hydraulic steering systems definitely help to control the boat better in the surf zone and offshore.

PERFORMANCE
Acceleration on the EcoCat FC was quick off the mark. The low-down torque on the new Yamaha 50hp 4-strokes, along with 13 pitch props, provided ample power to push her onto the plane quickly and smoothly, and without me having to push full throttle.
In full lock to port and starboard, she accelerated out of the hole fast on a tight turn, with no cavitation being detected.
When I pushed the EcoCat FC up to higher speeds in the offshore chop, she ran comfortably around 4 500rpm. As with all boats, fine-tuning on the trims is necessary to create a better ride. At higher speeds I found it better to ride with the bow slightly higher in the rough conditions. This softened the ride and kept it drier.
Cruising into the leftover north-easterly swell and chop, a good ride at speeds of approximately 12-15 knots could be maintained. Side-on and running with the swell and chop, the EcoCat’s ride was still good, and at times a higher speed could be maintained by working the throttles. Again, with the ample power of the 50hp 4-strokes, she powered out of the trough with ease, with no signs of ploughing or major broaching.
One thing I did find was that she climbed to high revs fast, which is not a problem as the power came with the revs. I am positive that the ecocat would still have ample power if she were running 15 pitch props, and this change might improve the ride and economy further.
Testing her at all the different angles and speeds, I definitely found that the wider beam gives better stability all round for a craft of this size, and that’s a good characteristic.

FISHABILITY
The ecocat FC, being the “super model” of the two craft, has ample space for two to four anglers. The boat is set up to suit the serious angler, having all the bells and whistles to make fishing extra comfortable. The gunnels are a decent height so that you can balance against them while fishing, and there’s enough space to move around the craft if necessary.
The two fish hatches are now longer than before and their lids are mounted flush with the deck. Another new addition is the livebait well, something I find essential on any ski-boat. From an angling aspect, this model works well as far as comfort and protection are concerned, keeping you out of the wind and spray. The T-Top gives good shade coverage and provides stowage space for rods.
Pushing into the swell and chop at both fast and slow troll speeds, the ecocat FC remained comfortable and stable for her size. Running side-on and with the swell and chop, the stability and comfort were also good. When stationary and drifting with the wind, she wasn’t quite as stable, but considering the rough conditions there was no real need to complain.
Set up like this, the EcoCat FC would definitely keep you out on the ocean for longer.

LAYOUT
The EcoCat FC has a well-designed, compact false transom area which keeps all the motor fittings neatly out of the way. As previously mentioned, these craft now boast the addition of a livebait well, and also have the standard dual stainless-steel roll bars mounted.
Even though it has a raised fuel hatch that carries six jerry cans for fuel, and serves as a seating area, the deck area is still spacious enough for angling purposes. On the craft I tested the deck area was carpeted with Flotex for extra comfort.
As I mentioned earlier, the deck also houses two flush-mount fish hatches. Standard rod holders are mounted into the gunnels, with a flush panel covering, which gives better protection to the rods and prevents crew stubbing their toes.
The forward console section is fitted with a fair sized T-Top, along with plenty of extra dry stowage space for any other equipment. Other console fittings and trimmings include a full windscreen and stainless steel grab rails.
The bow section has dual anchor hatches with non-slip lids, and a full stainless-steel bowrail to complement it.

FINISH
The EcoCat FC comes across as a far larger craft than her actual size. The new, modern look of curvy lines and higher gunnels, along with all the extras, gives her a nice finish that anyone would be proud to tow out of a showroom.