Five big 400HP Mercury Outboards with stability and luxury on the Formula 500 SSC.
By Chris Kourtakis
Boat Test #1663
Big, Bold and Beautiful are three words that I would use to describe Formula’s all new 500 SSC. Formula announced in December of 2020 that they expected to debut its all-new flagship, the 500 Super Sport Cross Over in 2021. Powered by five 400 HP Verados, the 500 SSC is definitely going to be able to get up and go.
There are 7 distinct areas that you and your guests will be able to gather, plus a small cabin for you and a guest or two to spend the weekend on the water. The crossover has a wide-open layout and a single level layout like the other super sport crossovers.
In the cockpit, there is a u-shaped lounge to the port aft that backs up to the rear facing sun pad. On the starboard side is an L-shaped lounge and two bar stools at the aft facing bar that has a retractable glass bulkhead that will allow you to use the boat year-round and in all weather conditions and provides a true cabin experience if needed.
Inside the cabin area is a l-shaped lounge on the port side with the helm adorning the right. The entire area is climate controlled by a 48,000 BTU heat/AC system. The upper gallery is perfectly laid out for entertaining and spending a great day on the water. Recessed sink, microwave, ample storage, and plenty of counter space to layout the hors d’oeuvres. The helm is laid out and equipped with dual 24” RayMarine displays, throttles and joystick controls. There are three individual helm seats with power footrests and flip up bolsters.
Moving forward, the bow area is spacious, and the high gunnels provide a safe feel for all your guests. The power actuated table lowers if you want to fill in the bow and use it as a sun lounger. The integrated arm rests can be found in the forward seating area and tuck away nicely when not in use.
The cabin has a small v-berth with a table that can turn into a berth as needed. Aft, the midship berth has a queen bed and a small sofa. The large head has a separate shower and plenty of room to move around. The lower galley has a sink, refrigerator drawer, Keurig coffee maker and microwave. The head room in the cabin is 6”7” making this perfect for most anyone to move around in.
The swim platform is massive and can be used as a dance floor or another gathering place. The large bar above the motors has cup holders and can be used as a leaning post. Swim ladders can be found on either side of the platform for easy access.
With an LOA of 53’4” and a beam of 14’6”, I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of this beauty when she is finally launched. This boat is going to turn heads for those who see it and provide so many great memories for whose who are on it.
Specifications
LOA: 53’ 4” / 16.26 m
LOA to Transom: 50’ 0” / 15.24 m
LOA w/Outboards Running: 52’ 10” / 16.10 m
LOA w/Outboards Trailered: 55’ 2” / 16.81 m
Maximum Beam: 14’ 6” / 4.42 m
Approximate Weight: 41,400 lbs / 18,788 kg
Cabin Headroom: 6 ‘ 7” / 2.01 m
Fuel Capacity: 650 gal / 2,460 L
Diesel Capacity – Generator: 50 gal / 189 L
Water Capacity: 100 gal / 380 L
Holding Tank Capacity: 60 gal / 227 L
Bridge Clearance
w/radar, mast down: 11’ 10” / 3.61 m
Bridge Clearance
w/mast & VHF antennas up: 19’ 5” / 5.92 m
Draft: 52” / 1.32 m
Engine: 400 HP – Five Mercury Verados
MSRP: See local dealer
For more information: www.formulaboats.com