Allison Vision 21 Review

Boat dealers are sometimes hesitant to order a new model on speculation but, following the tremendous response they experienced with the Allison Vision 195, Sydney’s Advantage Marine took the plunge with the first of the Allison Vision 21s. Importantly, with the complete outfit weighing in under 2000kg on a tandem axle trailer, it could be towed by their V8 sedan.

Allison are one of txhe few remaining brands to incorporate a separate engine pod and boarding platform instead of an integrally moulded configuration that lengthens the running surface. Despite theories as to why the “new concept” is more efficient, Allison boats still handle and perform as well as anything else.

With three adults on board, plus a full fuel tank, I was quite taken with just how smoothly this big boat came onto the plane. Despite having some 200kg hanging off the back, there is no burying of the tail as the throttle is eased open. The wide beam that carries well aft does its job well, keeping the bow down and easing the boat from displacement to planing mode. Decelerating, the 21 will hold the plane as low as 2800rpm. The hull rides cleanly and offers positive response to engine trim.

With a 175hp Yamaha Saltwater series V6 outboard providing the power, this boat is no slouch for its size. Even with almost a full payload on board, the engine could spin out to 6000rpm at full throttle, so acceleration was understandably good. In the 3500 to 4500 rev band, where a two-stroke is at its most economical, cruise speeds of 21 to 31 knots were delivered. For a big trailerboat, 26 knots at 4000rpm is great. And given the easy ride that this hull produces, it’s not hard to run faster without realising it. Not only is it responsive to throttle and engine trim, with the standard hydraulic steering the Allison reacts well to the helm. The hull has a good grip on the water when it turns and consequently it can be easily pulled around on full lock at quite high speeds. While this manoeuvre is not a pre-requisite for recreational boating, the cornering ability is indicative of the hull’s surefootedness on the water and helps build driver confidence.

The on-board layout is well suited to the multi-purpose role, with more than enough storage space throughout the cockpit and stretching up into the cabin. Allison designer and builder Col Allison is a big chap, and he always tries to make his boats as spacious and easy flowing as possible. This one is no exception. The cabin looks and feels big, is light and bright, and the hatches and openings are generous. A richly upholstered rear lounge mates with a pedestal-mounted table for cruising but both lift out to give clear access to the transom for fishing.

The finishes are fairly traditional and there is considerable scope for the dealer and buyer to customise the package.