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Volvo Penta Forward Drive

Boat Reviews

Boat Review by: Rick Layzell

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Volvo Penta’s legacy in the recreational boating world is framed and heralded for countless industry firsts. Their commitment to advancing technology continues to propel the brand to its rightful place among the leaders of the industry.

In 2015, at the Miami Boat Show, Volvo Penta introduced the industry’s first forward-facing drive system. From that moment forward, Volvo Penta has led the charge in delivering ideal power solutions across a myriad of brands to satisfy consumer demands.

First, let’s understand the timing. An industry and consumer product launch in 2015 means the technology was tested, under a shroud of secrecy, by Volvo Penta for five years or more (this is purely my guesstimate, but speaking from my own manufacturing experience this stuff doesn’t happen overnight). After extensive testing and likely re-designs, not to mention the expectations of the R&D teams, Volvo officially announced forward-facing technology to the world when it was ready to withstand the rigors of the industry.

During this same period, boat builders across North America were developing new technologies to serve a rapidly growing market of wakesurfing enthusiasts. Dozens of purpose-built boat models emerged, designed specifically to cater to this new segment.

But, what about boaters who wanted more versatility? What about those for whom owning multiple boats wasn’t practical – families looking for a single vessel that could satisfy both surfers and casual day cruisers?

Market demand for crossover solutions had arrived, and Volvo Penta’s Forward Facing Drive System was there to meet the demand.

A glance at the brands offering the VP system tells a compelling story. These manufacturers built strong global reputations on more than just surf boats. The introduction of forward-facing drive technology allowed them to expand their model lineups without abandoning their core identity or customer base. The Volvo Penta solution opened the door for these manufacturers to complement their existing model lineups – offering more, not less.

Consider brands like Regal, one of the oldest family-owned boat brands in North America. They now offer the system in their LS9 surf model, as well as the unique 38 Surf (more on that shortly). Or Cobalt, whose sister company is deeply rooted in the surfing segment. Cobalt now offers Volvo Penta forward facing drive solutions in their R4, R6, and R8 Surf models as well as the super competitive CS23 Surf package. And don’t miss the Volvo Penta solutions tucked inside select Chris-Craft boats, another legacy brand, who offer forward facing drive options in their 28, 31, and 35’ Launch GT Series.

A quick search online will unveil other brands, but with Regal, Cobalt, and Chris-Craft committed, the evidence is clear that Volvo Penta delivered upon it’s promise to supply products that exceed market demands.

As boater expectations continue to rise, so too has Volvo Penta’s commitment to innovation. Today’s market demands larger boats with surfing and other experiential capabilities. Models like the Regal 38 Surf, the Chris-Craft 31, and the 35 Launch now offer twin forward-facing drive options. Some might think this would be as simple as bolting a second drive in the engine compartment but, while logical, this would be incorrect. As these boats evolved to meet consumer demands, Volvo Penta was busy in the testing grounds, engineering the right combination of engine alignment.

With props facing forward and tucked underneath the hull, the forward facing drive makes for a safe solution for many surf enthusiasts. Twin counter rotating propellers ‘pull’ the boat as opposed to pushing the boat while creating a clean, surfable wake. Forward facing props bite through clean uninterrupted waters creating improved docking and reduced cavitation. ‘Pulling’ the boat also yields better fuel economy, with reduced vibration and exhaust noise at the swim platform.

But forward facing technology really shines in multi-purpose applications as the system delivers exceptional trim control, improved performance in chop, higher top speed capabilities, and still meets shallow water draft demands.

With all that in mind, it becomes clear that forward facing drive systems can satisfy the needs of countless owners. From low speed handling and maneuverability, to wakesurfing and wakeboarding capabilities, to improved efficiency and comfort versus traditional aft facing drives, the forward facing drive system earns top marks.

If all you want to do with your boat is surf, then by all means buy a purpose-built surf boat.

But, if like thousands of others, your boating needs are prefaced by a combination of surfing, cruising, and family time, while still delivering speed, handling, and versatility, then the Volvo Penta forward facing drive system may be your perfect solution.