Mustang 3000 Sports Cruiser

The Mustang 3000 Sports Cruiser was recently released by Gold Coast boat manufacturer, Mustang Pleasure Boats, at Sanctuary Cove in Queensland. Gold Coast mayor, Gary Baildon, was on hand to officially launch the stylish new vessel, which is targeted at lucrative international markets as well as buyers here in Australia.

As you'd expect from its sleek looks, the 3000 is a luxury craft in every sense of the word and has been designed specifically to compete with similar upmarket vessels manufactured in the USA. "Export to the USA and import replacement in Australia is our priority," Mustang's managing director, Garry Garoni stated at the craft's launch.

The 3000 is aimed at the top end of the sportscruiser market, with superb finishes and the highest quality fittings featured on each vessel. Priority has been given to the appearance of the craft, as well as performance. The Sports Cruiser design is expected to be a big hit in the important US markets of California and Florida where Mustang dealers have recently been appointed.

First impressions are that the 3000 Sports Cruiser is a true entertainer and will be right at home on day trips with friends, weekends with the family or entertaining important clients. The open plan cockpit and helm area are adjoining, which means the skipper doesn't miss any conversation. A wetbar and icebox are positioned directly aft of the helm station, so a cold lemonade is never far away.

The cockpit also features ample seating and a walk-through transom door which leads to an enormous fully-moulded swim platform.

The helm station itself is typical of the modern sportscruiser, with its aircraft-style dash. All gauges are in clear view and radio, sounder and engine controls in easy reach. The sports steering wheel and power-assisted hydraulic steering makes manoeuvring a breeze.

An excellent use of space in the forward cabin has enabled Mustang to incorporate a forward master cabin, saloon, galley and bathroom. Stepping down from the cockpit/ helm area, the bathroom is positioned immediately on the starboard side, and features hot and cold shower, electric toilet and wash basin. Opposite the bathroom on the portside is the galley incorporating a microwave oven, two-burner stove and dual voltage refrigerator.

Adjacent to the galley is the saloon, which features a kidney-shaped dinette with circular seating. TV, video and CD player are also fitted.

Directly forward of the saloon is an oversized berth. There is also an aft cabin which features a double berth. This cabin is a little short on headroom so it's possibly a good spot for the kids.

With nine people onboard and a belly full of fuel and water, the vessel still manages to pull 40mph with twin 4.3lt EFI Mercruisers. Not a bad effort and a taste of things to come... Keep your eye out for a full boat test of the 3000 Sports Cruiser in an upcoming issue of Trade-A-Boat.