Photos by Beken of Cowes
On The Water: Supercharged 1960s Style
April 1, 2003
England’s Poole Harbour may be one of the world’s largest natural harbors, but it is not the ideal place to test a fast boat. Shifting mud banks, a strong tidal stream, overlapping channels and commercial traffic demand constant vigilance. Standing at the helm of the Levi Corsair, braving a 45-mph crosswind, Martin Levi turns to his local guide. “Can we go faster now?” The old family friend nods, and we’re away.
The sports cruiser’s superchargers howl as her twin
230-hp diesels switch into battle mode. Once the Volvo turbochargers kick in, a deep space rumble replaces the mechanical frenzy. At exactly 12 knots, the Corsair comes on plane. The boat nearly launches out of the water, then lunges forward like a chum-crazed shark. She rockets straight to 37 knots and stays there. Rock steady. Nonchalant.
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Italian craftsmen were committed to outfitting the Corsair's modest interior with the finest materials and finishes. (Click image to enlarge)
The 30-foot Corsair’s deep-V hull powers through the heavy chop with consummate ease. Thanks to the high dead rise, her bow reenters the water like a cleaver dropped onto a side of beef. Martin’s small helm inputs are rewarded with immediate, positive response. The boat turns without the slightest hesitation. Clearly, the Levi Corsair is built to make short work of heavy seas. That she does, with astounding comfort and stability.
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