Story by DinaRella / Photos by DinaRella and Fountain Powerboats
Modern society's "Next Generation" can't comprehend a world without Wifi and our digital natives (as Linkedin refers to them as) command convenience and fast-access accessibility at their fingertips. This desire for ease of access crosses over and influences their boating wants and needs as well... the NXers require if not expect the best of both worlds and Fountain Powerboats has got them covered.
What do I mean when I say the best of both worlds? When it comes to dad's center console of choice it must cater to both family-time fun-running, yet support his serious fish hobby. For Saturday morning sunrise, the man of the house has plans to be out in the deep blue sea at the Bass Master Classic angler tournament and the next day; the family wants to load up the snorkel gear, pile on ten more Sunday Funday millennials and head out to mash some waves.
Fountain-faithfuls and future mariners have spoken and the Iconic Marine Group with Reggie Fountain by its side, since the world champion record holder and legend's 2017 return as an IMG consultant, have listened. Multiple-usability and functionality in a watercraft are the key elements in the 2019 Fountain 39NX.
The parent company which also includes Donzi Marine and Baja Powerboats is based in Washington, North Carolina, and recently launched a re-branding effort focusing on maximizing performance within its portfolio of outboards While fishing trips and family excursions are fun, first and foremost are the numbers. How fast will my Fountain go?.
Buyers can choose between two triple-engine packages either the Mercury Verado 350 or Mercury Verado 400 outboards. Expect upticks around 70 mph at 6,000 rpm with the Verado 350s, or toss out some additional coin and the trio of Verado 400s install will reward you with higher digits on the speedo. The base price of this diamond runs around $570,000.
The NX model is based on the running surface of the 38' Fountain with the beam increasing from 10’6” to 11’3". The vessel stands four inches taller and the double-step hull carries the design's scalloping effect up along the lower sides. Moving from the front to the back with a fresh catch or even a kid in tote is not a problem due to the spacious curved port and starboard walkways also designed with attractive durable padding added into the gunwales.
Let's now take a peek at the floor variations. In the following photos, Marine Mat decking has been added on the boat with the tan interior, whereas the white NX center console does not have the decking installed. The sensation and soothing of the soles of your feet as they graciously connect to the cushiony-foam is like receiving a Swedish foot massage with each step. Is this a slight exaggeration... well maybe, but trust me, it's amazing and I highly recommend adding the Marine Mat customizable feature. Secondly, it is a safer option when children are around and prevents potential hazardous accidents.
Towards the bow, recessed grab rails come powder-coated to protect against UV rays and corrosion, and have been set deep into the edges in order to reduce exposure and possibilities of getting smacked by tackle gear. Another functional facet created with the angler in mind are the two forward coolers built into each side next to the cup holders and can be used as livewells to keep bait and caught fish alive.
And making forward riders rendezvous more relaxing, the twin bow lounger design includes adjustable headrests and flip-up convertible armrests. Noteworthy also is the generous storage area behind the sun loungers for stowing towels or a beach-bag with sunscreen.
The helm has some tricks up its sleeve apart from the carbon fiber panels and overhead rocket launchers. The hardtop structure is tucked into the console in order to prevent stumbling into it and grab rails have been incorporated directly into the arrangement. Simply genius also is the layer of padding on top of the dash to prevent your Samsung from flying into the next galaxy or down into the galley.
Leaning post positions take into consideration the captain's current mood... does he want to stand or sit? Piloting the Fountain 39NX while standing up you will flip the bolster down and place your feet on the angled footrest. For times when you'd prefer to sit, you can flip the bolster upwards to the chair position and use the upper foot rest.
The large transom seating area boasts of additional storage and lower livewell, as well as rear rod holders, a starboard boarding and dive door with slide-in ladder and two rear walkthrough exits to the stern platform.
Complete your day by retiring down into the cabin for a siesta in the full size berth with innerspring mattress or simply grab a refreshment from the refrigerator and freshen up in the mini head.
Part II... the 43NX
Who doesn't like a sequel? Before signing off, I must pay homage to the recently released big sister and second in the NX series -- the impeccable 43NX. Fine-tuned for frolicking rather than fishing, the focus with the 43NX was resilience for rough-water offshore running and some serious aft grillin' and chillin'.
With an additional flip-up helm bolster, two passengers can hang alongside the captain on the larger 43NX. Not only is the cockpit rigged for comfort and long cruises, it includes three Simrad 16″ NSS EVO3 displays, autopilot with remote, closed-array radar, Mercury 703 Vessel View, Bocatech LED push-button switches, DTS controls and a digital throttle shift.
The new hull design of the 43-footer allows for the transom to be equipped with seating across the back, a set of 50-gallon livewells or a full tackle and bait station. Owners will relish in a deeper cabin fitted with a larger sleeping berth, a private head with shower, and a compact galley to enjoy hot and cold food and beverages thanks to the refrigerator and microwave. An outer cockpit galley equipped with an additional lower fridge and freezer unit, grill and sink is also available.
With a base price just under $700,000, LuxuryCenterConsoles.com is happy to report additional standard features are cabin and command area air-conditioning and heating, a Panda diesel 5kw generator; and yes I saved the best for last. As they say go big or go home, big sister was born with a set of quad outboard Mercury Verado 350s or 400s. Your Call!
Not far from popping the cork on the Perrier Jouet and ringing in the third decade of the 21st Century, as we approach 2020... instant gratification is key. And owning a Fountain 39NX or 43 NX allows you and your family to indulge in your own high-performance center consoling pleasure.
