FIRST IMPRESSION: There’s nothing subtle about the Monster Energy Team’s 399 Open from Deep Impact that I tested during the 2012 Miami International Boat Show. From the big, triple Mercury 300 Verado outboards to the screaming vinyl hull graphics, this boat is amped up to go big-water fishing, as if fueled by its sponsor’s caffeinated energy drink.
TARGET MARKET: Here’s a 39-foot center console than can compete at the highest level in the Southern Kingfish Association (SKA) tournament circuit, but is also well suited for kite-fishing or working wrecks and oil rigs. The Deep Impact 399 Open is a good fit for the angler who wants the ultimate in a go-fast fishing boat that can also serve as an entertainment platform for family and friends.
FISHIEST FEATURES: The 399 virtually flew across the water. Buried throttles produced a top speed of nearly 66 mph, which should get you to the fish fast. The boat also featured twin, 55-gallon livewells with clear-acrylic lids built into the full transom. Twin alcoves at the helm hosted a pair of 15.5-inch flush-mounted multifunction displays. You’ll find tackle storage and rod holders in the seat-back pod. Coaming pads surrounding the cockpit cushion your legs while you fight a fish. The elevated foredeck is a useful feature, but be careful — freeboard in the bow is minimal.
THE LAYOUT: Deep Impact builds only custom boats on order. A hull reinforced with resin-infused coring and several layers of Kevlar means the 399 can take big seas in stride. Three-across, racing-helm seats with drop-down bolsters offer extra security when running fast. Housed inside the console is a marine privy with 7 feet of headroom. The level of fit and finish is impeccable.
FINAL WORD: The 399’s multi-step hull creates a cushion of air under the running surface to reduce drag. This, combined with 24 degrees of deadrise at the transom, allowed it to easily bridge four-foot wind waves and never pound in my test. At the same time, it is a stable and comfortable fishing platform at rest, with all of the features you need to best any tournament rival.
**PERFORMANCE AT A GLANCE **
TOP SPEED: 66 mph
TIME TO PLANE: 5.4 sec.
0-30 MPH TIME: 12 sec.
BEST MPG: 1.25 @ 33.9 mph (3,500 rpm)
MAXIMUM RANGE: 538 miles
SPECIFICATIONS
LOA: 39 ft. 0 in.
BEAM: 10 ft. 7 in.
DRAFT: 2 ft. 6 in.
DEADRISE: 24 deg.
WEIGHT: 12,000 lb. (w/ power)
FUEL: 480 gal.
MAX. POWER: 1,750 hp OB
MERCURY VERADO 300 HP FOUR-STROKE
TYPE: Inline-6
DISPLACEMENT: 158.5 cid
MAX RPM: 6,400
HP/LB RATIO: 0.464
GEAR RATIO: 1.85:1
WEIGHT: 647 lb.
ALTERNATOR OUTPUT: 70 amps
MSRP (base w/ triple Mercury 300 Verados): $325,000















