Solace co-founder Stephen Dougherty brings what Solace calls the “the Dougherty Difference” to this new company.
The boat-industry veteran has an extensive history with Boston Whaler, and as a co-owner of the EdgeWater and Everglades boat companies. His background and others’ are already reflected in new ideas at Solace: cutting-edge designs, original ideas, and commitment to the customer.
Boats and components are built in a 200,000-square-foot facility in Edgewater, Florida, where the company builds its own plugs and molds. Metal components are made using CNC machining equipment and five-axis waterjet.
The boats incorporate high-strength, lightweight carbon fiber throughout hulls and major support structures, replacing aluminum in such applications as hardtop supports.
The company promises nothing less than a revolution in the market, which is apparent immediately in its first boat, the Solace 345.
Solace 345
One glance is all it takes to appreciate that this is no ordinary center-console V-hull.
Solace’s patented FishThru transom extends aft between two outboards of up to 450 hp each. That maximum outboard spacing places the boat’s keel lowest so that its draft is the same—24 inches—with motors up or down.
A hydraulically actuated swim platform—another first—extends out 4 feet past the transom door, allowing the angler, the company says, to “fight the fish, not the engines.” (The boat carries two length designations: at transom- and at end of FishThru.)
Transom and platform combine to provide effortless access when fishing, swimming, diving or snorkeling.
Fishing features abound, including 10 gunwale-mounted rod holders; only 8 percent of center-console survey -respondents said they need more than that.
The 345 has standard features that are most often options on other boats. They include a Seakeeper 2DC gyrostabilizer, an inverter system, and helm -seating—three plush seats with arms and bolsters—with shock mitigation and hydraulic helm raiser. A stainless-steel refrigerator/freezer centers a workstation with grill, bait-rigging bin, and freshwater sink. Options include a fully outfitted second station.
Twin livewells meet needs of 96 percent of CC survey respondents; and a pair of 7-foot fish boxes await catches.
Survey Says: On Target
⋅Fish-fighting cockpit space is best in class due to transom extension beyond the motors
⋅Pressurized livewells cradle bait in rough water
⋅Abundant rod storage throughout the boat
Brand Says
⋅High-end, custom-style luxury boats
⋅A level that no other can achieve or surpass
More Info: solaceboats.com