We live on an island surrounded by clear, blue seas which often resembles a milkpond without a whisper of wind. However, on occasion the south east monsoon winds can kick up an exhilarating run of seas. Faced with these two climatic extremes choosing the right boat can be a problem. This month we take a look at the craft which promises to be the solution – The Gulf Craft SC31. That difficult purchasing decision made the others that follow are somewhat easier.

Where do we go this weekend? Will it be water skiing, fishing, snorkeling, diving or just cruising to that favourite, deserted beach, only accessible by boat? Well the choice is yours!

The Gulf Craft is equipped with twin Suzuki 200hp four-stroke outboards which can power you through the waves at an adrenalin rush of 40 knots, or you can throttle back to 3900 rpm and still manage a very respectable 26 knots. At this speed the engines consume an extremely economical 39 litres per hour.

The SC31 sports a huge cockpit which is ideal for diving, fishing or simply cruising and skiing with all the family. The small cabin with V-berth sleeps two and there is a port side galley with gas hob and sink. A separate head compartment is equipped with a 12-volt electric toilet, sink and shower with self-bailing tray, which makes it great for overnight trips.

The cockpit when fitted with the optional folding side seats will easily seat eight. A custom aluminium sunshade gives plenty of shade to the cockpit area. Matching dark blue Sunbrella covers for the exterior seats give a high quality feel all round. Twin built-in insulated boxes hold enough ice to ensure cold drinks are available all day. For the fishermen a very large fish box, with macerator pump makes the job of storing the catch easier.

The dashboard is equipped with easy-to-read black Suzuki gauges and the controls are convenient to handle. Raymarine C70 colour GPS plotter and fishfinder are both fitted as standard and make navigation a real pleasure.

A ski pole is mounted on the transom for pulling toys or skis, or for belaying the stern anchor when stopped close to the beach – a real boon to keep the anchor warp clear of the props when setting off.

Extra optional twin swim platforms with ladder can be installed for ease of access and maintenance. A 12v anchor winch makes anchor handling safe and convenient out in the bay.

All in all the Gulf C raft SC31 is the perfect family boat for day cruising or short overnight stopovers.

Technical Specifications of the Gulf Craft SC31

Length	31 ft 03
Beam	9 ft 07
Draft	1 ft 04 (engines raised)
Fuel capacity	570 ltr
Water capacity	150 ltr

For more information contact: Go Boating Thailand
Tel: 0 7636 0825, Mobile: 08 7056 6301
Email tony@goboatingthailand.com,
Website: www.goboatingthailand.com