Pursuit OS 325

Before I head to a sea trial, I request information on the subject vessel from the boat builder.

Spec sheets, options listing, performance data, press releases and brochures — as much as I can get. This allows me to learn about the boat, explore features and ensure the builder delivers what it’s promoting.

The fine folks at Pursuit sent me the OS 325 Offshore brochure, and the cover photo is a real grabber. The boat’s tricked out with nearly all the options, including the fishing package. Understand that the base version is a great boat in its own right. Add in the options and you’re living large. Catching my eye in the photo was the number of rod holders. The boat has 12 standard holders attached to hardtop supports with five more in the fishing package, and none of them are in the way of passengers or potential crew rigging up lines.

Niceties Abound

Know that this OS 325 replaces a previous version but with much more to offer. Pursuit does a wonderful job with its information packets, chock-full of details on the standard equipment to spot-on boat specs and performance data.

The improvements begin in the hull with larger windows in a stylish, bold design. Aft by the engines, Pursuit made wider swim platform extensions and added a walkway in front of the outboards by removing the engine splashwell. You’ll cheer when you easily walk around the outboards for maintenance and cleaning.

Up top, there are more niceties. Hardtop supports hold four rod holders, an electrically actuated mast light base for that added clearance when ducking bridges, larger outrigger flats on the hardtop, bigger 17-inch overhead hatches, adjustable backrests on the forward sunpad, and a larger anchor hatch and opening. So as not to sound like one of its brochures, I actually went out on the prototype hull to see all of this for myself.

The Proof

Pursuit delivers on what it says and then some. Not only is it a good-looking ride from the docks, but it’s even more impressive when behind the wheel.

The single-pane windshield has no obstructions for perfect visibility. With little bow rise on acceleration, keeping an eye on the traffic is easy. Twin 16-inch Garmin multifunction displays are easy to see in the sunlight and are simple to operate and change screens. The dashboard pad is wrapped in heavy-duty exterior-grade fabric to help reduce glare. All rocker switches are laid out nicely on the console. The throttle controls and joystick are mounted to the right, easily accessible for the operator.

Added features include a fold-down standing platform for better visibility, an Edson stainless wheel with speed knob, Yamaha electronic steering and a JL Audio stereo. There’s a lot going on at the helm and its layout keeps everything within arm’s reach.

Pursuit redesigned some of the seating, notably the portside bench across from the helm. Here, the raised platform offers better visibility, and the L-shape settee that faces inboard also has a fold-out forward-facing backrest. Cool idea!

Adding to the enhancement list is the larger entertainment center with an electric grill, which is now standard, a sink, improved tackle storage design and easier trash can access. The aft-facing seat and fold-out bench seat once on the port side are now both on the starboard side to allow for a bigger grill area and port hull-side door. Just ahead is the added galley cabinet with pull-out fridge/freezer and large counter. Along the transom, there are new flush-mount rod holders, a clear acrylic livewell lid and a cutting board.

By moving some of the seating and cabinets, Pursuit created a walkway from the transom to the cabin that is a straighter run than ever before. Have you had enough? Just wait, there’s more.

Cabin Fever

The cabin below is cozy for a weekender with a nice open feel. The center solid wood dining table is flanked by a V-settee. Converting into a double berth is as easy as lowering the table electrically and pulling the seat cushions towards the center. You’ll see the seatbacks rest up against the hull wall and slide down as filler cushions to create a full sleeping berth. There’s an Isotherm drawer fridge, a flip-up Corian counter, storage and a GE microwave for the galley. Tongue and groove wood accent flooring is a nice touch, as is the 24-inch smart TV.

A private head has a dropped floor to accommodate more headroom, a vacuum flush head, a larger vanity sink, Corian counters and a shower wand. An additional sleep area is midship, featuring best in-class access, which also can be used for storage.

Up on the foredeck is a double-wide sunpad with individual adjustable backrests. There’s no need to worry about soaking up too much sun, as the Mediterranean-style sunshade can be quickly installed with four poles and attachments to the hardtop brow.

In the Game

Here’s what the brochures and specs don’t tell you: This is a fun boat to cruise on and operate. With enough seating for a nice-size party, cruise at sunset, take a ride to your local restaurant or just meander midday along the shore. It’s a stable platform with a fast cut of speed thanks to the 20-degree deadrise and twin Yamaha F350 outboards. With a wide-open speed of just over 50 mph, this little rocket yields just over a 200-mile range. Dial back to 4000 RPM for 32.3 mph burning 26.8 gph for a range of 320 miles.

Other options to choose from are the 5.0kW generator, 10,000 btu cabin air, 12,000 btu cockpit air, cockpit sunshade, electronic upgrades and more.

Thanks to the beefy hardtop framing and integrated window, the top structure is rock solid with great visibility and comfortable seating. Add in all the niceties without sounding like a commercial and Pursuit should have no problem marketing the OS 325. Just show people the brochure photo.