The Solace 415 CS features twin 440-hp diesel Volvo Penta D6 engines.
By Mike Burns
Boat shows provide a fantastic platform for manufacturers to unveil their most recent innovations, and the 2022 Miami Boat Show certainly showcased that. At the event, Volvo Penta and Solace unveiled a unique center console, the Solace 415 CS.
This model is equipped with the Volvo Penta Aquamatic diesel system, which incorporates the latest iteration of Volvo’s Duoprop outdrive units. Wait, diesel engines? Outdrives? Isn’t it common for most center consoles to be powered by robust gasoline outboards these days?
Indeed, that is the case. Solace also offers the 41 CS outboard variant, which allows for a multi-outboard configuration with a maximum power output of 1,800 hp. However, the teams from Volvo Penta and Solace recognized the prospective benefits of diesel power, notably fuel efficiency, extended range, and enhanced cockpit space without compromising performance.
A large swim platform simplifies boarding and is ideal for diving activities.
With a switch flip, a screen touch, or a button press on a wireless fob, the sunpad lid rises to show a compact and efficiently organized engine compartment.
The 415 CS utilizes Volvo Penta’s D6, 440 hp, common rail engines, which have been in production since 2003. These engines underwent a comprehensive rebuild and upgrade in 2018, making them the highest horsepower diesel production package available with an Aquamatic drive system, according to Volvo.
Two large touchscreen displays allow the captain to oversee and manage onboard systems for the Solace 415 CS.
For this model, Volvo designed the engine access with servicing in mind, positioning all components needing regular maintenance at the top of the engine. To inspect oil and coolant levels, you need not even lift the engine hatch. Volvo’s Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) system provides detailed engine metrics at the helm with just a screen touch.
With a crew of ten (a formality of the Miami Boat Show) and a half-full fuel tank, we ventured out onto Biscayne Bay and into the Atlantic Ocean to test the 415 CS. Applying throttle from idle for a hole shot, the 415 CS swiftly achieved plane with minimal bow rise.
Volvo Penta’s joystick ensures optimal maneuverability of the Volvo Penta D6 engines while docking.
We settled into a smooth cruising speed of 40.2 mph at 3,300 rpm. Remarkably, this came with a fuel consumption of just 35 gph, translating to around 1.1 mpg. At this cruising pace, the approximate range is 500 miles, reserves included. When going full throttle, we reached a maximum speed of 50.2 mph at 3,720 rpm, with fuel consumption rising to (still commendable) 45 gph. Reducing the throttle allowed us to maintain plane at 16.8 mph at 2,070 rpm, where fuel consumption dropped to a modest 19 gph.
If you’re familiar with the Volvo Penta IPS system featuring Joystick control, this Volvo offering replicates those capabilities, including fingertip control through the Joystick, ensuring smooth operation around the docks. The wet clutch pack transmission allows for slippage in docking mode, reducing propeller power by 50 percent for gentle handling. Moreover, anglers will appreciate the capability for a slow troll at 2.5 mph, even with the engines engaged. The control system also includes Dynamic Positioning, perfect for maintaining the vessel in a stationary position as needed.
The layout of the 415 CS opens up the whole cockpit, allowing for ample space without outboards extending off the transom. The swim platform simplifies boarding and is excellent for swimming or diving.
The engine hatch serves as a substantial and clever sunpad that can be rearranged into several configurations. A movable backrest can be set to various angles for either a forward or rear-facing bench seat. When folded down, it creates a large sunpad. With a switch, the front section of the sunpad elevates into an aft-facing lounger! The transom walkthroughs flank the sunpad for easy access to the aft deck.
Beneath the T-Top and behind the helm seat, there’s an elevated bench that, when lifted, uncovers an entertainment area featuring a sink with on-demand water, a built-in barbecue, and substantial storage. The boat is furnished with plenty of speakers, all mounted facing aft under the hardtop. A pair of flat-screen monitors reflect what the captain sees on the main helm displays.
The 415 CS is equipped with twin 440-hp diesel Volvo Penta D6 engines. Engine information can be accessed with a simple touch on a screen. The hatch also functions as a generous sunpad.
The helm features three plush bucket seats with inboard armrests. The port armrest houses Volvo Penta’s joystick control for precise maneuvering from either the amidships or port seat. The helm wheel is centrally mounted, flanked by two sizable touchscreen displays that allow the captain to oversee and control all onboard systems. A unique aspect of the helm area cockpit sole is that it can be raised and lowered hydraulically, providing easy standing operation, regardless of your height.
Forward of the windshield, a trio of lounge seats is available, and an armrest that folds down on the back of the center seat converts this area into a plush lounge for two. Recessed bench seating along the hull sides utilizes space efficiently, with these benches functioning as removable coolers, though like all seating areas, they are padded with high-quality memory foam for maximum comfort.
Below deck, you’ll discover one of the roomiest accommodations for a center console of this size. Elegantly designed, the cabin includes a facing settee that can convert to a queen-sized bed. Additional features entail a 32” TV, a galley area, and an enclosed head compartment complete with a unique rainfall shower. A 16,000 BTU reverse cycle heat/air system maintains a comfortable temperature, and accessing this compartment is easy via an oversized hatch employing a custom hinge design.
From bow to stern, the Solace 415 CS is filled with innovative and captivating design elements. Notable details include the utilization of magnets to keep cushions in place and magnetic spots along the gunwale for setting down your metal cup. From its performance and handling to its remarkable fuel efficiency, thanks to the Volvo Penta powerplant, this boat is sure to satisfy both cruisers and anglers.
Solace 415 CS Specifications
Length Overall: 41’
Beam: 12’ 3”
Draft: 24”
Weight: 20,000 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 444 gal. (tested)
Water Capacity: 60 gal.
Deadrise at Transom: 23 degrees
Solace 415 CS Performance
RPM Speed (mph) GPH
470 6.9 —
1030 8.4 —
2070 16.8 19
2750 32.0 26
2950 34.0 31
3300 43.2 34
3720 50.2 45
For further details: www.solaceboats.com