Makocraft launches X-Series fibreglass boat range

The Makocraft X-Series launch models include the ultra-lightweight X-Lite car topper and a heavier duty model built around the same 4.0-metre hull, called the X-Max.

The new fibreglass models will be sold alongside Makocraft's popular alloy Topper Tracker V-nose boats and HD pressed aluminium dinghies, giving customers a choice between two distinctly different boat types.

Boaters seeking a tough, abrasion-resistant, go-anywhere boat will likely still gravitate toward Makocraft's alloy boat range, but for others seeking a premium level of ride comfort, coupled with light weight, excellent stability and good looks, the new X-Series fibreglass boats will be hard to resist.

Visually, the two new Makocraft fibreglass boats look identical. Both have smooth-sided 4.0-metre-long vee hulls, and both are open, tiller-steer models with flat floors, bow storage areas and large (foam-filled) cross-thwart seats in the bow and the stern.

The difference between the two boats is in how they are built. The X-Lite is designed and made for car topping so the hull uses a high-tech vacuum resin infusion process to make it very light in weight, but strong and rigid.

Conversely, the Makocraft X-Max is made using a traditional (and less costly) fibreglass construction method that results in a heavier boat overall. The X-Max is the cheaper of the two boats and is intended to be trailered, rather than car-topped.

The Makocraft X-Lite and the X-Max are both sturdy and durable; one boat is just a lot lighter than the other; 80kg for the X-Lite plays 150kg for the X-Max.

We haven't tested the two boats yet, but I suspect the weightier X-Max will have the more comfortable ride, with the X-Lite having the advantage of being easier to carry and move about, and to hoist up onto your roof rack.

Notably, there is no wood used in the construction of either of the two new models and the spaces/voids between the hull and floor are foam-filled to provide flotation.

For extra strength, along with fore and aft rigidity, the two boats also have a full-length internal keel that can be likened to the backbone of the boat.

The Makocraft X-Series models both have a large, flat centre cockpit floor area, separated by two broad, foam-filled seat thwarts.

The cockpit floor is flowcoated in a soft grey colour with a non-slip finish. SeaDek rubber flooring is optional as pictured on the X-Lite model.

At the bow, the two boats have a formed, flowcoated anchor well, along with a short casting deck and safety gear locker beneath a SoPac-style hatch.

Other features include a stainless steel bow eye and rear tow points, a large central bung in the transom, and provision for a gunwale rubbing strip.

Other options include a rear casting deck, RailBlaza accessories (rod holders, cup holders, fishfinder brackets and so on) and a coloured hull.

The Makocraft X-Lite car topper is rated for a longshaft (20-inch) tiller-steer outboard engine to a maximum of 9.9hp. In contrast, the heavier X-Max model can carry a more powerful 20hp outboard engine.

Pricing for the Makocraft X-Lite (hull only) starts from $11,600. The X-Max model is cheaper to build and is priced accordingly at $9800 for the base boat.

Going forward, Makocraft's Tim Stessl has confirmed that side and centre console versions of the X-Max 4.0m will be forthcoming, along with larger fibreglass models set for release in mid-2021.