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Dusky 227 XFV: 2022 Boat Buyers Guide

The 227 XFV is easy to customize and fun to fish.
Dusky 227 XFV running
There are four rocket launchers found on the four-pole aluminum T-top. Courtesy Dusky

Dusky Marine has been custom-building sport-fishing boats since 1967. Each one—open fisherman, fish-around cruiser, cuddy, fisherman’s cuddy, flats boat, bay boat or center-console—is created to match the needs
and desires of its owner, with an extensive list of boat options. 

Every Dusky hull is crafted in Dania Beach, Florida, using three-piece construction techniques and more hand-laid fiberglass than any other boat in its class, the company says. 

Power choices include Mercury or Suzuki outboards. On some models, inboard diesels are available with an optional keel.

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All Dusky boats are sold factory-direct. The buyer can even watch their dream boat take shape through weekly photos posted online.

Dusky 227 XFV 

The “V” in the designation refers not to the 227 XFV’s V-hull; although that feature and the boat’s hard chine line make it a high-riding, roomy, dry craft that speeds to offshore fishing grounds. 

No, the XFV differs from its sibling, the XF, in the replacement of the latter’s squared-off bow box with cushion-topped and family-friendly V-style seating, which has storage compartments within each seat; one or both can be insulated for fish storage. Aft cockpit storage compartments have been removed, creating more fishing space. 

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Dusky 227 XFV bow seating
There’s family-friendly V-style seating in the bow. Courtesy Dusky

This open-fisherman center-console boat is clearly fishing-ready, with rod racks, rod holders on the backs of the leaning post, a 40-gallon baitwell within the console-front seat, and four more rocket -launchers mounted on the standard four-pole aluminum T-top. It is rigged with a standard 9-inch Simrad multitouch chart and transom transducer, a VHF radio, and a stereo with speakers.

The Dusky 227 is equipped with the Dusky Drive, a novel fiberglass outboard bracket with an integrated swim/dive platform. The Dusky Drive improves maneuverability and stability while -allowing a full transom for safety. 

Manufacturer’s Remark

Our options list lets you outfit the boat exactly as you want while our factory-direct pricing gives you a lot of boat for a lot less money.

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Performance Data

  • Test Power: Suzuki DF175TX
  • Test Props: Stainless steel, 15.25” x 19”, three-blade 
  • Test Load: Boat, motor, 25 gal. fuel, one person, safety gear   
  • Test Speed: 45.2 mph @ 6,200 rpm
  • Max Range: 238 mi., 25.1 mph @ 4,000 rpm

Specs

LOA: 22’7″
Beam: 8’2″
Fuel Capacity: 60 gal.
Dry Weight: 3,100 lb. plus power
Max HP: 230
Certifications: NMMA

Editor Says

Dusky’s hull design couples an extremely solid wave-breaking lay-up with a motors-up shallow draft of just 16 inches, enabling anglers to get from flats to inlets with ease. Its durable construction makes it one of the longest running vessels on the water. – Randy Vance, Editor-at-Large, Boating and Fishing Group

More Info

dusky.com

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