FORMULA BOATS’ 387 CCF AND 387 CCS CENTER CONSOLES WERE WORTH WAITING FOR.
By Mike Burns
During the 2022 Miami International Boat Show, Formula announced its plans to enter the center-console market with a new series ranging from 32 to 45 feet. The initial offerings are the 387 CCF (Center Console Fish) and the 387 CCS (Center Console Sport). The first production model, the 387 CCF, was available for our preview ahead of its public reveal at the 2022 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.
Measuring an overall length of 38’ 7” (to the transom) and featuring a 12’ beam, the 387 Center Console Fish can be equipped with a selection of engine options, including triple Mercury Marine or Mercury Racing outboards with power ratings between 300 to 450 horsepower, or twin Mercury Verado V12 600 Outboards.
Inspired by the well-regarded FAS3Tech hull design created by Formula’s chief designer John Adams for their successful performance boats, the 387’s hull incorporates a double-stepped design, which provides enhanced transom lift, enabling the boat to maintain a more level ride compared to typical V-bottoms. This hull design also significantly improves handling in rough waters, a benefit we experienced during our sea trial.
As an offshore powerhouse, the 387 CCF is tailored to satisfy even the most discerning offshore anglers. Features include three electronically adjustable helm seats with folding armrests, dual 40-gallon live wells at the stern, fish boxes on both sides with optional freezer plates, and high-end GEMLUX outriggers and fishing gear, making this model a true fisherman’s dream.
Buyers can personalize the helm using options from Garmin and Raymarine.
Behind the helm seats, the remarkable leaning post incorporates a retractable seating section that unveils a bait rigging area, which includes a covered sink and a lid that doubles as a cutting board. For safe access to the top of the hardtop, three steps are integrated into the hardtop’s frame.
Ample storage drawers are found below the seat, with one specifically designed for tackle organizers. A flip-out panel reveals several switches for controlling the massive retractable cooler, which features reFLEX decking, while additional switches manage the retractable awning, a valuable addition. Other compartments store angler knives and tools, and a compact YETI cooler on slides is conveniently located to the port side.
Mercury Joystick Piloting simplifies maneuvering while docked.
At the stern, a flip-down bench seat provides additional seating, while transom doors on both sides grant access to platforms adjacent to the outboards, facilitating easy access to your catch or the retractable swim ladder. On the port side, a hinged section of the hull allows easy entry for divers and snorkelers via a removable dive ladder and flip-open grab handle. Additionally, the transom includes a built-in electric barbecue, powered by the Fischer Panda 8.5kW generator when offshore, making it easy to grill your catch almost immediately.
Live wells equipped with acrylic tops can serve for catch or cooling beverages.
The open bow offers a massive in-floor fish box, or you can opt for a bow seating arrangement that includes a power-adjustable table. For relaxation, there’s a dual forward-facing sun lounge with a center flip-up armrest, integrated recessed drink holders, and USB charging ports. Over 30 drink holders and drink/rod holder combinations are situated at key locations throughout the boat from bow to stern.
There’s a wealth of storage compartments throughout the hull side and cockpit, with dedicated spaces for lines, fenders, and even YETI buckets. Both fresh and raw water washdown pumps and hoses are conveniently positioned amidship, on both sides.
Formula features a retractable swim ladder situated off the platform.
At the helm, standard electronic equipment includes dual Garmin or Raymarine 16” widescreen displays, Mercury DTS with 7” SmartCraft VesselView, Mercury Joystick Piloting, and a Bennett trim tab system. Three cellphone charging holders are conveniently installed within reach of each seating area, with additional controls for the Rockford Fosgate audio system and optional FLIR night vision. Overhead, two VHFs and commands for the Seakeeper stabilizing system can be found.
For overnight trips, an integrated console door on the port side leads to an air-conditioned cabin featuring 6-foot-4 headroom. It comes equipped with woodgrain finished flooring, a galley with either open-grain or high-gloss finish cabinetry, Corian countertops, a U-shaped lounge with a removable table and filler cushion, a 32” LED/LEC HDTV, a concealed sink with a cover, a pull-out fridge, and a microwave. A practical design feature is the recessed drawer beneath the TV, which holds the filler cushion and table when not needed.
The table and filler cushion can be stored out of sight in a recessed drawer beneath the television.
The 387 CCF provides complete accommodations for overnight stays, including a galley and private head.
A molded head compartment includes the expected features such as a VacuFlush toilet, molded sink with Corian countertop, and a shower. Additionally, a wireless phone charger/holder is conveniently mounted beside the vanity mirror for connectivity while you’re away.
The test vessel, hull No. 1 from the CCF lineup, was outfitted with triple Mercury Racing 450R outboards. With six people aboard and half a tank of fuel, we made our way to Miami’s notorious Haulover Inlet to thoroughly assess the 387 CCF.
Upon heading offshore, we encountered 2’ to 3’ swells and achieved a comfortable cruising speed of 43.2 mph at 5,000 rpm. As we came off the initial waves, my instinct was to bend my knees in preparation for a hard landing, but the 387 handled the swells with incredible grace, providing a remarkably dry and pleasant ride. Besides the excellent hull design enhancing the overall experience, the optional Seakeeper 3 Gyro Stabilizer nearly eliminated pitch and yaw.
Formula features lounges in the bow, complemented by a rear-facing bench under the hardtop.
As we transitioned into the calmer waters of Miami’s Biscayne Bay, we opened the throttles and reached a top speed of 61 mph at 6,400 rpm. The handling characteristics of the 387 CCF exceed expectations; it remains secure and dry even during sharp turns, showcasing remarkable stability.
During the hull construction, similar to many other Formula models, a grid stringer system bonded to the hull with Plexus adhesive is employed, a practice they have relied on for years. In addition to bonding the stringer system, Formula also connects the molded deck to this grid, preventing any vibrations or movements in choppier waters.
Throughout our offshore ride, the console and hardtop remained free from movement and rattles. Even the power-operated forward glass windshield, fitted with a washer/wiper system, felt exceptionally secure when operated in the open position.
In the docking area, the 387 CCF maneuvers with ease, thanks to joystick control. This system not only individually manages the thrust from the triple engines, but it also incorporates a variable speed bow thruster for agile movement in all directions.
Formula has a long-standing reputation for building superior and high-quality products, and the 387 Center Console Fish and 387 Center Console Sport models are sure to be outstanding additions to their premium lineup.
Specifications
Length Overall to Transom: 38’ 7”
Beam: 12’
Weight: 20,500 lbs.
Fuel Capacity (gas): 500 gal.
Fuel Capacity (diesel for Generator): 25 gal.
Water Capacity: 55 gal.
Holding Tank Capacity: 25 gal.
Deadrise: 23 degrees
MSRP (as tested): $1,777,610 US
Performance
Biscayne Bay, Miami – 50% fuel, 6 persons onboard.
RPM MPH GPH (per engine)
600 3.63 2.17
1000 5.85 4.78
1500 8.31 8.90
2000 10.3 16.99
2500 11.8 25.08
3000 14.3 38.04
4000 29.5 48.05
4500 38.9 53.18
5000 43.2 73.68
5500 50.5 84.88
6000 56.4 109.1
6400 61.0 135.1
Formula Boats
Phone: 260-724-9111
www.formulaboats.com