Boating New Zealand Boat Reviews
Reviews
Boating New Zealand News
News
Boating New Zealand Sports
Sport
Boating New Zealand Lifestyle
Lifestyle
BOAT-REVIEWS-MOBILE
Boat Reviews
BOAT-NEWS-MOBILE
News
BOAT-SPORTS-MOBILE
Sports
BOAT-LIFESTYLE-MOBILE
Lifestyle

Southern XF650

DESIGNER:
Southern Boats Ltd www.southernboats.co.nz
Power Boat

Southern Boats has been building top-quality aluminium trailer boats for more than three decades. Its factory in Mosgiel has gained a reputation for extremely well-finished and high spec products. The latest model, the XF650, is a departure from the norm for Southern, aimed squarely in the middle of the fishing boat market rather than at the higher end.

Words by Norman Holtzhausen Photography and video by Roger Mills
Written
Bookmark post
Bookmarked
Bookmark post
Bookmarked
OVERALL RATING
We gave the
Southern XF650
an OVERALL RATING of
5
out of 5 stars
PERFORMANCE
84
%
HANDLING
87
%
ECONOMY
87
%
SPECIFICATION
84
%
BUILD QUALITY
86
%
VALUE
88
%
  MODEL DETAILS
CATEGORY
Power Boat
MODEL
Southern XF650
DESIGNER
Southern Boats Ltd www.southernboats.co.nz
BUILDER
Southern Boats Ltd www.southernboats.co.nz
PRICE AT TESTING
129,995
  SPECS
CRUISING SPEED
25-28 knots
LENGTH OVER ALL (M)
6.85m
BEAM (M)
2.50m external
FUEL CAPACITY (L)
200-litre underfloor
  DETAILS
ENGINE
Yamaha F150 four-stroke
HORSEPOWER (HP)
150 to 225hp
FUEL (L)
200-litre underfloor
PASSENGER(S)
6
ACCOMMODATION
2
CONSTRUCTION
Aluminium
CONSTRUCTION DETAILS
5mm alloy plate. 6mm is available as an option

Southern Boats has been building top-quality aluminium trailer boats for more than three decades. Its factory in Mosgiel has gained a reputation for extremely well-finished and high spec products. The latest model, the XF650, is a departure from the norm for Southern, aimed squarely in the middle of the fishing boat market rather than at the higher end.

So while the XF650 is constructed to Southern’s usual impeccable standard and with the same proven hull design, it forgoes some of the luxury features and fishing touches that generally make Southern’s range stand out. The model designation XF differentiates it from the higher-end XP models, and Managing Director Peter Carlson says this is in response to current market demand. He says the boat was built to meet the $100K price point, with the base hull, motor and trailer packages retailing at $99,995. The model as tested comes in at $129,995 with its additional fixtures and electronics.

Made of Metal!

In the words of Carlson, “We have down-spec’d this model a bit from the usual high-spec Southern.” Changes include a basic hardtop cabin from aluminium rather than fibreglass, and flat glass rather than the usual but more expensive curved glass windscreens. The hull is vinyl-wrapped instead of painted, and the cockpit is unlined, although the cabin retains its insulating carpeting on the sides and ceiling.

The boat was fitted with the highly-regarded Yamaha 150hp four-stroke outboard, and Carlson says this again is what most buyers in the current market are looking for. The hull is rated up to 225hp, so a prospective purchaser can also choose a more powerful, pricier option if they require more speed or pulling power. A windscreen wiper has been installed on the starboard side, as another ‘essential luxury’ for the serious fisherman.

Under the treadplate deck is a 200-litre fuel tank, as well as
a wet locker suitable for dive gear or other storage. The helm and passenger seats are fully upholstered bolster types mounted on top of solid no-frills aluminium pedestal pods. Under the pods are chilly bins, each with a padded squab to provide additional seating facing aft. A nice touch is the rubber feet under the bins, preventing them from sliding around when underway. Carlson says other seating options are possible, and they will customise the layout to suit the purchaser.

The transom includes a live-bait tank under the step-through to the boarding platform. A large, removable, powder-coated unit on the transom holds a bait-board, rod holders and a drawer for fishing gear. A boarding ladder on the boarding platform, and U-Dek foam decking on the gunwales and boarding platform, are other touches of luxury the XF650 has retained.

Since this boat is directly aimed at the fishing market, its wide coamings with that U-Dek covering and plenty of rod holders were must-haves, as were the full-length parcel shelves that can safely store rods lying down. The obligatory rocket-launcher-style rod holder along the rear edge of the hardtop holds another seven rods, so there is no shortage of fishing rod storage. The cockpit is wide and provides plenty of space for up to six anglers, and the high gunwales impart a sense of security, whether leaning against them or sitting on the coamings while fishing. Those seat bases also maximise the usable deck space, intruding minimally into the cockpit deck area.

A functional helm console with enough space for large screen electronic displays

The helm is well laid out, with a 12-inch Garmin Echomap touchscreen multifunction chartplotter/fishfinder dominating the space. A pair of Yamaha digital gauges provide engine data and steering is hydraulic, with a conventional throttle and shift control on the side of the cabin. A Fusion stereo, GME ‘Black Box’ VHF radio and controls for the Lenco trim tabs, as well as the Maxwell anchor winch, complete the helm layout. A dual bank of switches controls the lights, live-bait tank, washdown pump and other electrical items.

The front cabin is lined and the cockpit is wide

The forward cabin with squabs either side is useful for storing gear or for a mid-afternoon snooze, but is not intended for overnighting. Together with the hardtop, it provides shelter from wind and any rain showers, which is likely to be its prime purpose. There was no toilet fitted to the review boat, but this could be installed as an option. A hatch opens to the forward deck where the Maxwell winch takes care of anchoring duties.

The XF650 is the basic model but it shares the good looks of its higher spec’d stablemates

Out on the water the boat performed exactly as expected for a 6.5m aluminium hull. Which is to say it accelerated fast and easily reached 30 knots of boat speed and more. Carlson says he has had the boat up to 38 knots in light trim mode, and expects that a larger motor would give a top speed in excess of 40 knots. However, we found the 150hp had plenty of power with three adults onboard and a full fuel tank, so for most users it would be perfectly adequate.

The most economical speed seemed to be around the 25-knot mark, where the motor was cruising comfortably at 4,400rpm
and using just over 30 litres of fuel per hour. Pushing the throttle a bit harder took us well over 30 knots, and she remained perfectly comfortable at that speed. Naturally the fuel consumption jumped a fair bit compared to cruise speed, so
I wouldn’t recommend running at high speed for long periods. At cruise the boat should provide an effective range slightly in excess of 150 nautical miles, meaning that even extended game fishing trips would be possible in the XF650.

We did find that judicious use of the trim tabs was necessary with three people on board, since three bodies means the weight distribution naturally tended to be unbalanced. However, the Lenco trim tabs responded quickly and it was easy to keep the boat on an even keel. The hull only has two partial planing strakes in the forward part of the hull, to help lift the bow when accelerating. The lack of planing strakes in the rear, combined with a 20o deadrise at the transom, gives the boat a smooth ride – we could power through the usual ferry wakes and harbour chop at speed without any undue lifting or slamming from the hull. The flipside of that smooth-riding, moderately deep-vee hull profile is the need to use those trim tabs in certain conditions.

The XF650 handles well, is quick to accelerate to cruising speed, smooth in the turns and nicely responsive to throttle and helm inputs. Being an unlined aluminium hull with an open-back hardtop, engine noise is quite apparent from mid-throttle and above, but never unpleasant. At rest the boat is reasonably stable, and although three of us standing on same side did cause the boat to heel over somewhat, it was nothing to be concerned about. I think the excellent ride quality more than compensates for any slight tenderness. The live-bait tank built into the transom step means the rear opening is high off the water, reducing the risk of water coming aboard over the stern, whether from large waves or from backing up at a moderate speed.

After taking photos we headed back to the boat ramp and trailer, trying out
a mixture of speeds, turns and jumping a few ferry wakes. After having our bit of fun, we were back too soon and sliding her effortlessly back onto her custom-built tandem-axle aluminium trailer with hydraulic brakes and mag wheels. Towing weight is estimated at 1,700kg, so within the towing capability of most utilities and many modest SUVs.

Plenty of space, and a covered cockpit

Overall, this is a boat that does exactly what it sets out to do – a mid-size fishing boat priced to meet the market, but built solidly to withstand years of hard use. With few frills, maintenance will be easy and
a thorough freshwater hose down is all that is needed after a day on the water. The new and used boat market is undeniably tough right now, but the Southern XF650 should cater nicely to anyone on a slightly more modest budget still wanting a well-built, capable deep-water trailer boat.

Related Articles

Comments

This conversation is moderated by Boating New Zealand. Subscribe to view comments and join the conversation. Choose your plan →

This conversation is moderated by Boating New Zealand.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Boating New Zealand
Boating New Zealandhttps://www.boatingnz.co.nz
Boating NZ is New Zealand’s premier marine title devoted to putting its readers behind the wheel of the latest trailerboats, yachts and launches to hit the market. It inspires with practical content and cruising adventures, leads the fleet with its racing coverage and is on the pulse of the latest maritime news and innovation.

More from Boating New Zealand

The final frontier: Vendée Glo...

As the leading skippers cross the finish line, the real test of endurance c...
Race Day ReportsVendee Globe - Round The World Yacht Race

Timber, tradition, and time-ho...

The Australian Wooden Boat Festival is one of the largest maritime celebrat...
Boating Festivals & Events

Reel real adventures exploring...

A story of passion, innovation, and adventure on New Zealand’s untamed coas...
News

Operation Resolution: Salvage ...

After 17 days of intensive work, salvors have reached a critical milestone ...
Incidents at Sea

The End of an Era: Royal Carib...

A beloved icon of the cruising world, Song of America has met its final cha...
Boating history

Missing jetskier in Cook Strai...

A jetski without its driver was discovered at Cook Rock, off the top of New...
Coastguard News
-- ADVERTISEMENT --

Follow Us

Weekly Newsletter

Stay up to date with the latest developments shaping New Zealand's Boating world.

Social Media

Follow us on social media to stay in the loop with the latest trends and news shaping New Zealand's boating scene!

-- THINGS WE LOVE --

GET
STARLINK
HERE

-- DIRECTORY LISTING --

NZ Events Worth Adding to Your Calendar

Have an event you'd like to list on Boating New Zealand. Contact us with the details.

Catch all the action of the Vendée Globe Race, starting 10 Nov, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. Follow along with excitement at Boating New Zealand.

FISHING

White Pointer Boats 30th Anniversary Fishing Comp, 5 - 8 Feb 2025 in Waihau Bay

Makaira Trailer Boat Competition, 25 & 26 Jan 2025 in Whangaroa

Stabicraft Fish N Chicks Tournament, 6 - 8 Feb 2025 in Tauranga. Dress up theme is “Ladies of their Time”. Raising funds to help find a cure for Breast Cancer.

Surtees Annual Fishing Competition, 28 Feb - 1 Mar 2025 in Whakatane

Hook Me Up Fishing Competition - Matakana vs Hillside, 7 Mar 2025 in Whakatane

The Kubota Billfish Classic, 12 - 15 Mar 2025 in Mercury Bay, Whitianga

ITM Fishing Competition, 13 - 16 Mar 2025 in Whangaroa

NZ Lure Masters (Catch, Measure and Release competition), 3 & 4 Oct 2025, New Zealand wide

Stabicraft Te Anau Manapouri Fishing Classic, 25 - 27 Oct 2025 TBC in Te Anau Manapouri

REGATTAS

Rolex Sydney to Hobart, 26 Dec 2024 starts in Sydney, Australia

New Zealand Sail Grand Prix, 18 & 19 Jan 2025 in Auckland

Bay of Islands Sailing Week, 21 - 24 Jan 2025 at Bay of Islands

NZ Millenium Cup, 1 - 4 Feb 2025 at Waitemata Harbour

Toyota Youth International Match Racing Cup, 26 Feb - 4 Mar 2025 in Auckland

PIC Harbour Classic, 28 Feb - 1 Mar 2025 in Auckland

Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race 2025, starting 11 Oct 2025 TBC from Sydney Harbour

PIC Insurance Brokers Coastal Classic, 24 Oct 2025 TBC from Auckland to Russell

NZ Match Racing Championships, 2025 dates tbc in Auckland

HYDRO THUNDER

Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder Race - Mangakino, 18 & 19 Jan 2025 at Mangakino

Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder Race - Karapiro, 7 - 9 Feb 2025 at Karapiro

Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder Race - Lake Rotoiti, 8 - 9 Mar 2025 at Nelson Lakes

Lucas Oil Hydro Thunder Race - Lake Twizel, 29 - 30 Mar 2025 at Twizel

JET BOAT RACING

2024/25 NZ Jetsprint Championship R2, 1 Dec 2024 at Featherston

2024/25 NZ Jetsprint Championship R3, 27 Dec 2024 at Wanganui

UIM World Jetsprint Championships, 25 Jan -2 Feb 2025 at Wanaka (25 & 26 Jan) and Wanganui (1 & 2 Feb)

2024/25 NZ Jetsprint Championship R4, 23 Feb 2025 at Wanganui

2025 NZ Marathon Coast-to-Coast, 16 to 25 Mar 2025 starting at Greymouth ad finishing at Christchurch

2024 Golden Homes NZ Jet Boat Marathon, 2025 dates TBC on Southland Rivers (Oreti, Waiau and Mataura)

National Jet Boat Rally 2024, 2025 date TBC at Oliver Road, Bendigo (near Cromwell)

WATERSPORTS

Yamaha Rollo's Marine Bridge 2 Bridge, 2025 dates tbc Staged on the Waikato River between Cambridge & Taupiri, based in Hamilton, New Zealand

NON-MOTORISED SPORT

Waka Ama - 2025 National Sprint Championships, 12 - 18 Jan 2025 at Lake Karapiro, Cambridge

Waka Ama - 2025 Secondary School Nationals, 24 - 28 Mar 2025 at Lake Tikitapu, Rotorua

ANTIQUE, CLASSIC & RETRO BOATS

25th NZ Antique & Classic Boat Show , 1 & 2 Mar 2025 at Lake Rotoiti, Nelson Lakes

SHOWS

Moana Auckland - New Zealand's Ocean Festival, 27 Jan to 9 Mar 2025 in Auckland

Auckland Boat Show, 6 - 9 Mar 2025 to be held at the Viaduct Events Centre and Jellicoe Harbour, Auckland

The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, 15-18 May 2025 to be held at the Viaduct Events Centre and Jellicoe Harbour, Auckland

NZ Boat, Fish and Dive Show, 30 & 31 Aug 2025 to be held at Mystery Creek Events Centre, Waipa

-- DIRECTORY LISTING --

International Boat Shows

COMING EVENTS

Boot Düsseldorf 18 - 26 Jan 2025 to be held in Düsseldorf, Germany

New York Boat Show, 22 - 26 Jan 2025 to be held at the Javits Center, New York

Bahamas Charter Yacht Show, 29 Jan - 2 Feb 2025 to be held at Nassau, Bahamas

Houston Boat Show, 29 Jan - 2 Feb 2025 to be held at the NRG Center, Houston, Texas

Dubai International Boat Show, 19 - 23 Feb 2025 to be held at the Dubai Harbour

Miami International Boat Show, 12 - 16 Feb 2025 to be held in Miami

Palm Beach International Boat Show, 19 - 23 Mar 2025 to be held along Flagler Drive in downtown West Palm Beach

International Multihull Show, 23 - 27 Apr 2025 to be held in Terre-plein Ouest du port La Grande-Motte (34), France

Palma International Boat Show, 30 Apr - 3 May 2025 to be held at the Superyacht Village, Palma, Spain

Barcaly's Jersey Boat Show, 3 - 5 May 2025 to be held in the Channel Islands

South Coast & Green Tech Boat Show, 9 - 11 May 2025 to be held in Ocean Village Marina, Southampton, Hampshire

The British Motor Yacht Show, 15 - 18 May 2025 to be held at the Swanwick Marina, Southampton, Hampshire

The Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show, 15 - 18 May 2025 at Auckland Showgrounds, Auckland

Sanctuary Cove International Boat show, 22 - 25 May 2025 to be held in Sanctuary Cove, Queensland

Sydney International Boat show, 31 July - 3 Aug 2025 to be held at ICC Sydney & Cockle Bay, Darling Harbour

Hiswa Te Water, 3 - 7 Nov 2025 to be held in Bataviahaven Lelystad, The Netherlands

Southampton International Boat Show, 19 - 28 Sep 2025 to be held in Southampton, UK

International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX), 7 - 9 Oct 2025 to be held in Tampa, Florida

Annapolis Sail Boat Show, 9 - 13 Oct 2025 to be held at City Dock, Annapolis, Maryland

Newport International Boat Show, 20 - 23 Nov 2025 to be held in Newport, Rhode Island

Cannes Yachting Festival, 9 - 14 Sep 2025 at Cannes – Vieux Port & Port Canto

Genoa Boat Show, 18 - 23 Sep 2025 to be held in Genoa, Italy

Melbourne International Boat Show, Oct 2025, TBC to be held at New Quay Promenade Harbour Esplanade Seven Marinas

Biograd Boat Show, Oct 2025, TBC to be held in the City of Biograd, Croatia

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 29 Oct – 2 Nov 2025 to be held at several locations in Fort Lauderdale

METSTRADE 18 - 20 Nov 2025 to be held at the Rai, Amsterdam

Antigua Charter Yacht Show 4 - 9 Dec 2025 to be held at the Nelson's Dockyard UNESCO World Heritage Site, Antigua

Monaco Yacht Show, 24 - 27 Sep 2025 on Monacco