78 Boating New Zealand
itched as an entry level offering and
built to a price point, the Montura
is well-equipped without being over
the top. It has everything you would
expect in a boat of this type, plus
a few things you might not, like a
powerful 200hp 4.5-litre V6 engine.
The Monterey is a good-looking boat and fun to
chuck around. The bowrider layout is optimised for
recreational boating with the emphasis on entertaining
family and friends, fishing, towing water toys and
generally enjoying a warm summer’s day on the water.
Supplied by Lakeland Marine in Taupo, the boat
is sold on an American-made, dual-axle Karavan
galvanised steel trailer, braked, with bunks rather
than rollers. Like many American boats, it is meant to
be carried on a bunk trailer, which offers better hull
support, but that does mean the trailer needs to be well
submerged to launch and retrieve the boat. The towing
arm swings away for easier garage storage.
As reviewed, there were no electronics fitted – these
will be the prerogative of the new owner – but there
is a decent multi-speaker stereo system and plenty
of drink holders. Standard safety features include an
engine blower and fire suppression system in the engine
compartment.ROOM FOR A CROWD
Like other boats of this type, the Monterey 196 MS
Montura accommodates a crowd. It’s meant for fun
and there is enough seating for the whole family or all
your mates, with storage for all the water toys, food
and drink you might need – under the seats, in lockers,
shelves, a cooler and under the floor.
Behind the wrap-around windscreen a pair of
swivelling bucket seats provide comfort and support;
there’s a deeply cushioned rear bench seat, lounging
pads on top of the engine compartment and lounger-
style seats in the bows.P