As a fan of Saturday-morning television shows depicting the outdoor lifestyle, I’ve watched a number of freshwater bass tournaments. While running at speed, the edgy bass boats, with their state-of-the-art technology, are awesome. The Europia 38 Chase is all that and more.
At about 8,500 pounds, the 38 Chase is light for her size. Though you might find her perched on the decks of the largest megayachts, this boat is designed to be a serious tender. This is why you’re more likely to spot her at the end of the optional towing bridle, where she’ll be ready for a score of guests. Europia designed the 38 Chase with a Protex closed-cell foam collar mechanically fastened to her hull, which should protect the tender and mothership in beam-to situations. (The collar itself is protected with Hypalon and has a core of Trevira polyester.)
The 38’s platform is based on a handlaid, solid-bottom, deep-V stepped hull. The deck and hull sides are vacuum-bagged, and the stringer system is foam-encapsulated. The hull and deck are bonded and mechanically fastened.
Your eyes will gravitate to the 38’s centerline and two leatherette Glide Ride helm and companion seats. Skippers should be at one with the motion of the ocean, as each seat is fully adjustable, with a suspension system electronically controlled to absorb shock.
Seats are abaft the command console, which harbors an enclosed head with an MSD, a shower and vanity below. A full set of electronic gauges and digital controls, in keeping with what one would expect on a tender of this caliber, is secure on the boat’s flat and angled surfaces.
Maneuverability aboard is unrestricted; I was able to easily circumnavigate the console and engine box. Bench-style seating is forward, to port and starboard, as well as across the engine box.
Twin 300 hp Volvo Penta KAMD 300 turbo diesels power duo-prop stern drives, which should provide good performance while you’re offshore. Expect a top speed of 48 knots at wide-open throttle and a cruising speed of 40 knots. With its 240-gallon fuel capacity, the 38 Chase should have a range of about 400 miles, according to the builder. An electrically powered engine hatch uncovers the Volvos.
A teak deck, once an option but now standard, adds to the package’s luster.
Contact: Europia Boats, (772) 569-8222; www.europiaboats.com.
