May 20, 2021
By Florida Sportsman Editor
Let's take a closer look at the Stingray 269 DC in this boat review
When you think of hull designs initially you might expect that ride quality is more important for a hardcore ocean assaulting blue water tournament boat and that's partially true- but, what's more important than everyone's comfort on a boat designed to accommodate a large group of family or friends out for some casual cruising and relaxation?
Beginning your day by throwing your back out or getting soaking wet doesn't exactly set the stage for “good times” and for this reason, it's important to provide a nice easy ride on a boat exactly like the 269 Dual Console.
The running surface on the 269 features Stingray's exclusive Z-Plane hull style. This hull shape is a well thought out piece of physics that is a departure from the conventional lifting strakes added to a smooth bottomed boat.
The Z-Plane design is a series of three longitudinal steps running the length of the bottom. Each of these steps acts as a downward angled chine to increase lift which reduces drag- and deflect water flow outward. This reduces turbulence sent back to your props creating a clean flow and better efficiency while improving the softness and dryness of your ride.
A real benefit to choosing a boat in this class is the real world versatility this design offers. The 269 is quite capable as a family cruising or watersports vessel and can convert later- into a comfortable lifestyle boat. It offers seating for at least ten divided between a forward Jacuzzi shaped venue for socializing, helmsman and companion chair under the hard top, seating for three in the cockpit and a very clever aft facing transom bench that allows you to socialize with folks in the water at the sandbar while remaining aboard.
Of course it can also be used as capable fishing or diving platform as well. Add outriggers and you're ready for trolling offshore. Pull up the ski pole and you're towing the kids around. Throw in enough dry storage and insulated compartments to handle all the gear you'll need for a weekend getaway and take off. That's really what the soul of these boats are all about, a little something for any occasion.
Stingray Boats 269
Base price: 147,653- w/ 2-200 Yamaha MSRP
www.stingrayboats.com
This large forward seating venue provides a perfect setting for a large group to chill out together.
Beneath all of the forward seating you’ll find useful storage for gear and provisions.
Securing the passageway to the bow breaks up the wind and closes out the weather to the helm area.
The starboard located helm is trimmed with sporty looking dash trim and neatly arranged instrumentation with an MFD unit for easy viewing.
Matching helm and companion seating features comfortable padding and deluxe pleated stitch work.
Behind the helm seat is a prep station for preparing lunch or rigging tackle.
This port side aft facing seat faces the cockpit action perfectly for spotting for skiers and tow sports safety.
A long insulated hold under the cockpit seating holds gear or your catch of the day.
The Stingray hardtop is set up to handle multiple rod holders overhead while offering a mounting point for outriggers as well as providing abundant shade.
Within the port side console the Stingray 269DC features a nicely trimmed out private head with a vanity and basin sink.
This model came equipped with an anchor windlass with switching conveniently located adjacent to the locker for taking all of the work out of setting ground tackle.
Beneath the rigging station a performance drink cooler on a sliding track stows out of the way or pulls out to add an extra seat.
A live baitwell is located at the transom corner to port for the anglers in the family.
Raise this hatch beneath the transom bench seating for simple access to the bilge systems through a very large opening.
This transom bench seating is an ideal spot to sit and visit with people at the local sandbar if you don’t want to get wet.
