Robalo may translate to "snook" in Spanish-speaking countries, but in America, it's synonymous with something else, too: excellent craftsmanship and relative affordability.
Generally, we don't find walkarounds in this size range very comfortable. The Robalo 265 provides the exception to the rule. Belowdecks, the large V-berth with its inset easily accommodates two adults. In addition, the galley has a good refrigerator and stove. Robalo finishes the cabinetry in a fine glossy maple veneer that complements the teak and holly cabin sole. Some of the other most salient features include holders for four rigged fishing rods and an enclosed, stand-up head with a porcelain VacuFlush toilet.
With its max-rated twin 250 hp outboards, the Yamaha application engineers claim a top speed of just over 50 mph. However, a number of people happily rig this boat with a pair of 150s, too. When you add the optional power-assist steering to the standard Lenco tabs with indicators, you get a package that performs superbly well.
Robalo's sales and design teams all fish frequently, and as such, you can expect that every model has a healthy list of fishing features as standard equipment. The new 265 is no exception. For example, Robalo mounts four rod holders in the gunwales and provides space for another six in tubes under gunwales. A 33-gallon LED-lighted livewell with a blue interior has an easy sliding hatch. The deck hides an 85-gallon fish box that drains directly overboard augmented by a second 40-gallon box under the captain's helmseat. The full-width transom seat makes the ride to the fishing grounds comfortable; it then flips out of the way easily for access to the livewell and other rigging. You get a raw-water washdown, Plano tackle-box storage, holders for knives, pliers and rigged lures, cockpit coaming pads, toe kicks, stainless-steel rams on all the boxes and hatches and a wide, walk-thru transom door.
And so you don't think this is just "another boat," Robalo not only uses the highest quality resins and glass, it laminates a layer of Kevlar into every hull for extra strength without adding weight. Other standard items include a premium stereo system with Sirius satellite receiver and a 10-year transferable warranty. About the only option you might consider is the hardtop with more rod holders. That doesn't leave you much to decide on now, does it?
LOA......26 ft. 1 in.
BEAM...... 9 ft.
DRAFT......1 ft. 8 in.
DEADRISE......23 deg.
WATER......23.5 gal.
FUEL......180 gal.
MAX POWER......T250-hp OB
MSRP......$75,062 (w/o power)
Robalo boats / Nashville, Georgia / 229-686-7481 / www.robalo.com
