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Cobalt 276
By Pierce Hoover
Any boat that bears the Cobalt nameplate also carries certain expectations. Among these are: superior construction quality, class-leading fit and finish, and onboard amenities second to none. The company's new 276 adds one more item to this list: attention-getting style.
With an open transom and a swooping sheer line that incorporates sculpted engine vents and culminates in the hard lines of an integated platform, this is a boat that could fit right into the scene at St. Tropez or Portofino. The bow has an arrangement we've seen only on Cobalt boats, where the space is so generous that sitting forward or sideways is more comfortable than the norm. It also makes dockside access, while carrying gear, much easier. Slide into the double-wide helm seat and glance at the contoured wood-grain dash and digital gauges. There are no rough edges. Ditto for the engine compartment (accessible via the standard electric lift) and the in-console head.
A big part of the Cobalt experience is performance. And the 276's definition of performance doesn't involve the eye-watering, earsplitting ride of a go-fast. Our boat tamed choppy waters and carved effortless turns, delivering speeds of up to 50 mph, but Cobalt uses fiberglass stringers and a composite transom for the type of strength that translates into a confident ride with no rattles or creaks .
Comfort is also a strong suit when this boat is at rest. Reversible bolsters transition the cockpit from passenger carrier to conversation pit, while the elongated bow will accommodate two lounging adults with room to spare. A wide walkway leads aft to the integrated, low-set platform, which is equally handy for slipping in for a dip or stepping onto the dock.
Extra Points
• Under the sleek finish lie strong construction details such as a Kevlar reinforced laminate and encapsulated aluminum backing plates.
• A polished stainless steel rail protects the swim platform from dock rash.
• Through-hull hawse pipe in the bow makes it easier to run anchor line and protects the boat's finish.
• Optional stainless steel arch with integrated Bimini is worth consideration.
Test Drive
- Test Engine: MerCruiser 496 MAG, 375 HP
- Test Prop: Bravo Three, 24" 4-blade
- Test Load: People (400 LB.) Fuel (70 GAL.)
- Top Speed: 49.9 MPH @ 4,500 RPM
- Most Economical Cruise Speed: 26 MPH @ 2,500 RPM, 8.6 GPH
Vital Stats
- Length Overall: 27'6"
- Beam: 8'6"
- Dry Weight: 5,500 LB.
- Fuel Capacity: 95 GAL.
- Max HP: 425
- MSRP: $107,361
- NMMA Certified: Yes
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