From the team behind Oceanmaster this new range of affordable open and cuddy cabin boats is looking to make hay while the sun shines on small outboard-powered boats.
Built in Poland with a new UK agent based in Poole, the three-model range comprises the entry-level 535, the 645 Open and the top of the range Northmaster 685 Cruiser featured here.
It may have a keen eye on value for money, the starting price is just shy of £50,000 with the 115hp outboard engine, but it’s been designed with cruising in the challenging environments of northern Europe in mind.
It has a deep-vee hull with an air step to reduce its time to plane and cushion the ride, and the seven-seater cockpit sits low and is well protected by a deep wraparound windscreen.
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A pop-up bimini, which stows under the transom bench, provides shelter over the cockpit on sunny days. The Northmaster 685 Cruiser only has a beam of 7ft 8in but because there are no side decks, the cockpit can use up every inch of that space.
Two-way backrests on the navigator seat and aft bench allow guests to sit facing forward or aft and a table drops down to convert them both into one big sun pad.
The cuddy cabin is a bit of a token gesture but with a potty-style toilet and sleeping room for two it’s a useful space to have if you need to spend the night somewhere. Most will simply use it as a large, dry storage void.
Keenly priced and well suited to the rigours that boating in the UK can occasionally present, the Northmaster range is a welcome addition to this burgeoning sector.
Northmaster 685 Cruiser specification
LOA: 22ft 5in (6.85m)
Beam: 7ft 8in (2.43m)
Engines: Single 115/150hp outboard
Top speed: 43 knots
Starting price: £49,195 (inc. VAT)
The versatile cockpit is well protected by the windscreen
Access via this sliding hatch to a cosy cuddy cabin
