Last fall Tiara unveiled a new brand, Tiara Sport, with the 38 LS, the first Tiara-built boat to have outboard power. The model, which made its world debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, was, in my opinion, one of the most talked about boats at the show, for a number of good reasons.
The 38 LS is a sportily lined vessel that promises athletic prowess and onboard luxury. Indeed, the boat almost has the feel of a European dayboat more than an American center console. The open bow has lots of seating for guests and will be the option of choice for more intrepid passengers while the boat is underway. The bow also has a raised step to port for easier entry and exit when docking.
Moving aft, the helm has seating for three, each with armrests, and a center-aligned steering wheel that allows the captain equal sightlines to both port and starboard. A single Garmin 16-inch screen comes standard and a second one is available as an option. A single piece of tempered glass makes up the windshield. It has no mullions, for exceptional sightlines. The helm area is shaded by a full-beam hardtop that will surely be appreciated on hot, sunny days in the islands.
The boat has a U-shaped dinette aft that has a folding teak table. Interestingly, both seats and table can spin around. When positioned looking forward it faces an outdoor galley with a sink, drawer refrigerator and an optional grill. When spun around to face aft, passengers can enjoy their meal or refreshments while watching their kids wakeboard, or while keeping an eye on any fishing lines the boat might be dragging at trolling speed. The ability to spin the feature really opens up the boat in terms of versatility, as the layout feels as though it has completely changed.
Down below there is a fully enclosed head for privacy, as well as a large, 54- by-79-inch berth forward. As far as stowage is concerned, the hanging locker and three drawers below the berth should be enough for most any day trip. There’s also a microwave in the cabin for warming up a snack.
Power for the 38 LS is triple 350 hp Yamaha V-8 5.3L outboards. If that seems to you like a lot of giddy-up for a boat that displaces less than 18,000 pounds, you’re not alone. Tiara wasn’t kidding when they named this the Sport line. At wide open throttle the boat can hit a sizzling 48 knots. Her fast cruise is also slick, to the tune of 30 knots at 40.9 gallons per hour and 4,000 rpm.
The Tiara Sport line is a whole new venture for Tiara, one replete with luxurious touches and super-fun performance numbers. And if the 38 LS is any indication, this idea should most definitely thrive.
