The 700 series is a 7.0m plate aluminium boat kit and the smallest (to date) in the Sherwood Marine range with a centre cab / walk-around option. Four models share the hull: the 700CC centre console at $23,750 excluding GST, the 700CD cuddy cab at $24,650, the 700HT hardtop at $25,450 and the 700CCB centre cab at $26,640.

The 700 series replaces the 680 series. The 700 series carries a new raised sheerline forward, which gives a distinctive look and just a little more freeboard. The existing 680 has an excellent reputation as an allround sea-boat and rough water performer, so everything else carries on unchanged.

The hull is 6.97 m long, 7.23 m overall, on a 2.50 m beam, with 6 mm bottom plate, 4 mm sides, 3 mm decks and 3 and 4 mm cabin. Fuel capacity is 360 litres, person capacity is six, cockpit depth increases to 0.73 m and the deck is self-draining. Maximum single-engine power is 300 hp with 200 to 250 hp recommended, or twin outboards of 100 to 140 hp each.

Worth highlighting is that all our twin and single engine boats get their own specific transom shape, designed for optimum overall balance and running trim. The weigh differences are significant, and a ‘one size fits all’ transom is too big a compromise in our book.

Against the 655, the 700 has a significant step up in fuel capacity, longer v-berth cabin (full length for kids, stretch out with an extra cushion for adults), and a little more deadrise. Against the 750 series, the 700 gives up cockpit length, 40-120 litres of fuel, and the enclosed cab option.