The Whittley SL 25 HT in the new “Bisque” colour option is a stunning offshore sports fisher that is sure to catch everyone’s attention. The boat is a true head-turner with its sleek design and stylish trimmings. Built on a 23-degree deadrise performance hull and equipped with a Mercury 5.7 V10 400 hp Verado outboard, it is a force to be reckoned with on the water.
One of the standout features of the SL 25 is its abundant space. The fully-lined cabin offers generous room and includes a slidable lockable door. The fishing cockpit and integrated rear deck also provide ample space for various fishing and cruising activities. The deep cockpit is easily accessible, allowing anglers to move freely without clutter. Additionally, the transom features a live bait tank and a convenient freshwater shower, making it highly practical for fishing trips.
Designed with fishing in mind, the SL 25 HT comes equipped with angled rod holders and vertical rod racks. Recently, it has been enhanced with a fully enclosed and braced hardtop that serves both functional and practical purposes. The hardtop protects the crew from the elements and provides a mounting point for marine radios, radar, lighting, and rod racks. The large helm features a flush push button switch panel and can accommodate up to a 16” sounder in the dash.
The Sea Legend hardtop configuration makes the boat versatile for both fishing and family fun. Sliding windows ensure good air circulation, while the large windscreen offers excellent visibility. With the optional camping covers and drop-down side clears, no one on board needs to worry about getting wet during the journey or overnight stays.
For avid fishermen, the hardtop with rocket launchers is a dream come true. It allows you to keep many rods out of the way, maximizing fishing space on the boat. The premium EVA foam rubber deck adds to the boat’s user-friendly nature. It is easy to clean and nothing sticks to it, making it ideal for fishing and other activities. Additionally, there is an optional slide-out fridge for added convenience.
The high gunwales of the SL 25 HT provide stability and allow anglers to brace their knees while reeling in big fish. The twin back-to-back seats offer a comfortable and relaxed social position while waiting for the fish to bite. The seat boxes provide extra storage space, capable of hiding away plenty of gear. The large side pockets are perfect for keeping an abundance of fishing equipment. The hull design facilitates easy access to the bow, making it a walk-around boat.
While primarily designed for exploring distant fishing spots, the SL 25 HT also serves as an excellent cruising platform for families looking to extend their time on the water. With its nimble handling and top speeds exceeding 90 km/h, it’s hard to find a boat that compares. The boat’s performance is optimized at 6,300 RPM, achieving a fuel consumption rate of 0.70 km/L. At a more economical speed of 27 km/h, the engine runs at 3,000 RPM, using 1.33 km/L. Its stunning appearance with black trimmings is complemented by its single high-powered engine which provides exceptional fuel efficiency.
The SL 25 HT is equipped with the Mercury AMS Advance mid-section, which minimizes vibration and noise, ensuring a smooth and quiet ride. It offers a sports exhaust mode for an added cool factor and a quiet mode for peaceful cruising. Advanced electro-hydraulic steering with a full electric ram is available as an option, eliminating the need for hoses or steering pumps. This option also allows the addition of an autopilot by incorporating a GPS heading sensor.
The large 18″ diameter 4-blade propeller moves the boat efficiently at lower RPM and speeds while delivering thrilling top-end performance. The Next Generation Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS) control ensures smooth and precise shifting, instant throttle response, and active trim capabilities.
Laurie Jackson, the manager at Whittley’s Queensland headquarters at The Boat Works, is extremely enthusiastic about this boat and had this to say: “It truly is a head-turner, the SL 25 HT offers excellent performance in choppy waters and exceptional manoeuvrability in tight spaces, making it an ideal choice for offshore adventures.”
To find out more, call Laurie Jackson at Whittley Sales QLD Ph: 0409 830 078 www.whittleyboats.com.au
Published in print July-September 2023
