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Boat Review: Rampage 38

This brand-new model features the tough durability and dedication to sport fishing that made the Rampage name famous more than 25 years ago.
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If the Rampage 38 looks like just another fishing boat, take a closer look. This brand-new model features the tough durability and dedication to sport fishing that made the Rampage name famous more than 25 years ago. Redesigned and revitalized by KCS International, an ownership group that also builds Shamrock boats, the Rampage 38 and a similarly designed 30 were introduced in February at the Miami International Boat Show.

The Rampage 38 would easily qualify as being “overbuilt.” Hulls and decks are made of hand-laid fiberglass over a pre-impregnated, end-grain balsa core – which also provides excellent insulation properties. A 19-degree deep-V hull and a raised sheer forward combine to keep the Rampage on the water when things turn sour.
Whoever has maintenance duties will love this 38. A power-actuated engine hatch with double electric rams makes engine inspections and service a snap, and the full fiberglass liner and diamond-plate flooring make the compartment easy to clean. The center-console helm features similar ease of use, since the whole helm is hinged for full access to electronics wiring and instrumentation cabling.

The helm is raised and located centerline behind a high windshield that includes an electronically actuated center vent. The result is clear, comfortable visibility in all directions. Gauges are spread along the top of the helm area, leaving plenty of room for mounting electronics. Hull No. 1 even has an Ocean PC computer screen mounted there, with room left over for chart plotter and depth sounder.

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Fishermen will appreciate the 38 as well. This is no cruiser with a few fishing amenities thrown in. She’s loaded. Two long and deep fish boxes with macerator pumps line each side of the cockpit, while a 55-gallon circulating livewell (with etched-glass window!) resides in the transom. Two built-in tackle lockers offer a total of eight large slide-out drawers with adjustable dividers, gasketed and lockable covers, molded fiberglass sink with spray nozzle, cutting board and cooler box. Cockpit bolsters surround the fishing area, and a two-piece transom door gives access for divers, guests and, of course, big fish.

Entry to the belowdecks area is via a starboard bi-fold door with sliding top hatch, which reveals an interior finished in cherry. The 38 sleeps four, thanks to a double berth forward and settee that also converts to a double berth. The interior also includes a complete galley and two stand-up heads with showers.
Power in the first Rampage 38 is a set of 450 Cummins that gives the boat an approximate 26-knot cruise speed and a top end around 30 knots.

For more information, contact Rampage Sportfishing Yachts, 906 SE 9th Terrace, Cape Coral, FL 33990; 941-573-7201.

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Specifications
LOA: 39’6″
BEAM: 13’9″
DRAFT: 3’6″
FUEL: 400 gallons
WATER: 90 gallons
WEIGHT: 21,000 pounds (dry)
POWER: 450-hp diesels
PRICE: $311,000

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