Three decades ago, when Chris Fabbro and his father, Bob, couldn’t find the hardcore but comfortable, no-nonsense fishing boat they desired, they built their own 16-foot center-console in the family garage.
From that first Cape Horn 16 Classic has grown a premier line of tournament-quality offshore center-console fishing boats from 22 to 36 feet. They’re all still designed by Chris Fabbro, with tall, flared bows, mammoth livewells, open decks and huge floor plans—and unsinkability. All Cape Horn hulls are filled with closed-cell foam that also adds stability and dampens noise.
Cape Horn 34XS
Getting there, fast and comfortably: That’s the expressed purpose of the new Cape Horn, the XS, promising extra space and storage in a hardcore fishing boat.
The 34XS was designed to embody both twin-engine swiftness and a smooth, dry ride the company credits to its length-to-beam ratio. Its roomy cockpit and low aft freeboard are handy for fighting big fish and boating or releasing them.
Within an oversize hardtop (powder coating and even a crow’s-nest optional), a large box provides gear storage, surrounded by a half-dozen flush-mounted speakers. Telescoping 18-foot outriggers are ready to spread out the offerings.
At the helm, electronic power steering allows the addition of joystick control, and a huge dash accommodates multiple large displays. A pair of slide-mounted Llebroc captain’s chairs blend control and comfort. The walk-in head features 6 feet of headroom.
Forward of the console is a double flip-up seat with flip-up footrests. In the bow, U-shaped seating has removable backrests. Aft, a bench folds away neatly. Behind the helm seats, facing aft, is -mezzanine seating.
This boat never forgets its fishing focus, with 41 rod holders, a 7-foot-long insulated fish box, livewells of 50 (clear-topped, rear) and 60 gallons (leaning post), and full coaming bolsters.
Manufacturer’s Remark
A towable package that makes an impression. The “XS” stands for extra seating and extra storage.
Performance Data
- Test Power: Twin Yamaha 425 XTO
- Test Props: Yamaha 23″ Pitch XTO
- Test Load: Two people, 275 gal. fuel
- Test Speed: 65.5 mph @ 5,800 rpm (81 gph/0.8 mpg)
- Max Range: 495 miles (@ 6.9 mph) 220 miles (@ 65.5 mph)
Specs
| LOA: | 34’11” |
|---|---|
| Beam: | 9’3″ |
| Fuel Capacity: | 275 gal. |
| Dry Weight: | 12,300 lb. with power |
| Max HP: | 900 |
Editor Says
Cape Horn offers two versions of its new 34-footer: the XS with extra seating and storage, and the T, a tournament version with more fishing features to meet the demands of hardcore offshore and nearshore anglers. Both include comforts and conveniences to help the entire family make the most of their time on the water. – Alex Suescun, Executive Editor, Salt Water Sportsman
