Sea Ray L650

Sea Ray has a solid reputation for building capable runabouts, sport cruisers, express boats and yachts that dates back decades.

But it wasn’t until a couple of years ago that the builder expanded into new territory with its L Class line of Mediterranean-inspired flybridge and express motor yachts. In case you’re wondering, the “L” in Sea Ray’s moniker stands for luxury. The flagship of the L series — the L650 — is all about luxury.  

On deck, the luxury and comfort features start forward, where a unique lounging area is nestled into the foredeck. Here we found a comfy, forward-facing couch, twin convertible chaise lounges and a glossy drop-in teak table that turns the area into a very ample dining area. It’s one of several areas on the L650 that Sea Ray likes to call a “Social Zone.” Each zone has a different function, depending on what folks are up to. The aft cockpit features another one of these zones, where guests can gather and enjoy an al fresco dinner among rich, buttery upholstery and what feels like acres of beautiful teak woodwork.

There are more social zones below, including a luxurious main salon that is on the same level as the aft cockpit. This creates a congruent area where guests can relax, dine or socialize. Between the cockpit and main salon is a large expanse of sliding glass that opens to seamlessly connect the two areas. Further below is a four-cabin layout with a mid-cabin master stateroom, VIP stateroom in the bow and two smaller guest rooms to port and starboard. As you’d expect, the interior’s fit and finish is sumptuous, with stylish accents of wood, metal and fine fabrics.

Under the engine hatch in the aft cockpit sits a pair of 1,150-hp Caterpillar C-18A turbo diesels. Those big Caterpillar diesels will launch the L650 to a top speed of around 35 mph. Most folks will cruise in the mid-20s, however, where the L650 has an ample cruising range of around 275 miles.

Josh Northrop, sales executive with MarineMax Port Clinton, (marinemax.com; 419-797-4492) says, “The 2016 Sea Ray L650 Express is the flagship in the Sea Ray lineup. The Sea Ray L Class offers the epitome of luxury and quality with unparalleled customer support. MarineMax offers the highest level of dealer support with more than 60 locations throughout the U.S., and an extraordinary and carefree boating experience.”