July 31, 2014
By Dave East
The Bluewater 180 has a unique hull with lifting pads amidships.
When Paul Skilowitz decided to add an inshore boat to his line of Bluewater Sportfishing Boats, his intention was to produce a semi-custom built boat that would bridge the gap between flats boats and bay boats, his aim was dead on. The new BW 180 delivers performance, range and fishing features that can be fine tuned to the individual angler.
The BW 180 is offered in two configurations, the Pro, which has large walk around gunnels with rod racks beneath, and the FX, which incorporates built in locking rod boxes. Both models come standard with livewell systems that are plumbed to circulate water from the bottom up, with an overflow relief valve and smooth interior walls to prolong the life of live baits.
All of the dry storage compartments are fully finished, including the hatches, with deep edge channels to direct water flow. Trolling motor batteries are housed under the console where you will find yacht quality wiring. If you opt for the integral console seat, you'll have a fully insulated cooler, too.
Florida Sportsman Boating Editor, David East, met with Paul at his factory in Ft. Pierce, FL to get a close-up look at the finished product. Below is a complete pictorial review of the Bluewater 180. Click on an image to view the caption.
Bluewater Sportfishing Boats Inc.
www.bluewaterboats.com
pskilowitz@bluewaterboats.com
772-464-3735
Specifications:
Length Overall: 18 feet, 0 inches
Beam: 8 feet, 1 inch
Fuel Capacity: 40 gallons
Dry Weight (with 115 hp outboard): 1940 pounds
Draft: 10 inches
Maximum Horsepower: single 150 hp
Deadrise: 15 degrees
Base price with 115 hp engine: $37,640
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