S
ummer boating is just
around the corner and if
you’re thinking of upgrading
or buying a new boat, this
is the ideal time to shop as
manufacturers and dealers release
new models and have some of the
best deals going.
Even if you’re not a budget or
entry-level boater, getting value for
money is priority number-one for
most of us, and while we may dream
of a top-of-the-range 100-grand
trailer boat, the reality for the
average income earner is that the
mortgage, family and cars generally
take precedence; a boat only gets
what’s left over.
If this quandary sounds familiar,
look no further – Signature Boats
has a solution with its latest 495F.
Designed and packaged to suit
budget-conscious owners looking
for a quality fibreglass boat, these
little rocketships pack an X-factor
punch, sporting Signature’s stylish
lines, a spacious layout and standard
inclusions to please the family and
avid anglers. Getting you on the
water for just under $38,000, well
that definitely caught my attention.
CHAMPAGNE FOR BEER
You may know the legendary
493F from quite a few years back;
Signature has made considerable
changes in developing the 495F.
As well as subtle changes to the
styling and cleaner lines throughout,
there’s a reworked bow section
including bowsprit, and a user-
friendly hatch through the cab top
to access an anchor well that’s large
enough to take the windlass.
An extra six inches has been added
to the cockpit, where a redesigned
dash caters for screens up to nine
inches, and multiple gauges.
Personally, I’d like a bit more of an
angle to the flat section of the dash
for a clearer view of the screen while
driving, whether seated or standing.
Storage space has been increased
throughout, with the side pockets
running full length into the cockpit
and up to the forward console. Wide
and shelved, they’re spacious enough
to load quite a bit of gear into.
Another positive to the layout is
the stern set-up with a full-length
rear bench that folds vertically to
serve as a really comfortable area
to lean into when fishing. The high
58 trade aboat.com.au
