One of Australia’s most anticipated trailerable offshore boats of 2024, the all-new Edencraft 255 Formula, has officially stepped out for the first time for a shakedown ahead of the first customer deliveries.
Hull No.1, which was popped out of the mould in January, has hit the water wearing the maximum horsepower rating – a pair of 400hp Mercury V10 Verado outboard engines.
Standard inclusions will run to a lockable cabin door; twin live bait tanks; full-length cockpit pockets; two live bait tanks; a dive door; an enclosed anchor well; sliding hardtop windows; a glovebox; lockable hatches; and a stainless steel bow roller.
Buyers will also be able to choose from a range of colours to stamp their ownership of the boat.
The first Edencraft 255 Formula, built to AMSA survey requirements, looks very well equipped, featuring a Raymarine Cyclone radar system and what looks like a FLIR thermal imaging camera mounted on the hardtop.
The boat also features outriggers and a custom bait board over the transom. We can also see that the production boat gains a walkaround engine pod.
But we also gain a look at what is inside the production version’s hardtop for the first time. The helm features king and queen seating with the custom skipper’s and first mate’s seats using a suspension system to smooth out the ride.
Across the dash are what appear to be three Raymarine Axiom 2 Pro multifunction screens mounted across the full width of the console.
Edencraft says the 255 Formula’s upgraded cabin and new hardtop design “provide plenty of space to escape the elements, and with larger capacity for storage and utilities”.
“You’ll have everything you need for an overnight stay in comfort! It’ll keep everyone happy, letting you concentrate on enjoying your time on the water,” it says.
Edencraft owner Grant Maher said building a boat that performed when it mattered was the company's speciality.
"What this boat has achieved is meeting all the performance standards you expect from an Edencraft, combined with modern boating requirements and luxury touches," he said.
"It's the boat you can use for game fishing on Friday and then cruise around Sydney Harbour with the family on Saturday."
Josie Eastman, Edencraft's general manager, said the 255 Formula was a testament to its innovation in trailer sports fishing boats.
"This project is the culmination of countless hours, dedication, and an unwavering passion to deliver the best for our customers," Eastman said.
"It represents not just a breakthrough in boat design and proven hull performance, but also the collaborative effort of an incredible team."
The Edencraft 255 Formula will come with a 10-year structural warranty.