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[Kevin Leclair]

The Utopia 205 is an exciting sport boat that will keep the family happy with its versatility, and will give you, the performance and speed you’re looking for. She’s brand new for 2002, and we’d say the designers at Sea-Doo got it right with this thrill-seeking hybrid.

Out on our test run we found the acceleration to be very good, and with only one turn, lock-to-lock of the wheel, steering was quick and precise. Even at a top speed of very close to 50 mph, a full hard over turn was able to twist the boat 360 degrees without any sideslip and without stalling out. Can't do that in a prop boat!

The 240-hp Mercury jet drive package in the test boat performed flawlessly. The jet drive is the safest way to go if you are going to have kids, or adults for that matter, swimming or boarding in the stern. One word of caution; take a few minutes off by yourself in some quiet water to get used to the way the jet drive works at low speeds and backing. It is a little different than a prop boat and you should get used to it, before you get into a docking situation, and embarrass yourself or ding the new boat.

The boat's layout is perfect for small boat family outings. The Utopia 205's walk through windshield was high enough to provide good protection against spray, even in the nasty little chop running on our test day. It gives access to the bow seating area, large enough for two adults to lounge comfortably, and the swivel bench seats (buckets optional) provide comfortable, secure seating when running, and a comfortable conversation or eating area when anchored or beached. With the passenger seat swiveled, the spotter for a water skier can sit safely and comfortably and watch what is happening at the end of the ski rope without getting a crick in the neck from constantly looking back over their shoulder. Swivel both seats and install the table (it comes standard), and the Utopia becomes a perfect picnic boat.

Though not really designed for it, I can imagine many owners will occasionally wet a line from the Utopia, with its shallow draft providing access to back county or inland fishing spots for some casual light tackle enjoyment.

The sun deck over the engine compartment is well padded and comfortable, with a nice rise at the aft end, which eliminates the feeling you are going to roll off the stern into the water when you doze off. It provides easy access to the swim platform with its integral tow eye and hidden telescoping boarding ladder. And speaking of the sun deck, it lifts easily on its hydraulic supports to expose the easily removed engine cover and the storage areas on either side of the engine. The table is stowed along with the bimini top, which also comes standard. There is also a storage area under the rear seat which runs almost the full width of the boat, and is just right for skis and wake boards. The additional storage under the seats in the bow section, and the convenient side storage compartments behind the helm seats, provide plenty of room for all the junk that tends to be brought along on any outing.

Incidentally, the only flaw I found with the Utopia, and it is really minor, was that the hidden slot for the bow seat brackets was not finished, so the gel coat tended to chip where the bracket pulled against it. The fit and finish everywhere else was excellent. All the corners and edges were well rounded. No toe or knee knockers here.

The Utopia 205 is a wonderfully designed runabout, with room, safety, and the type of comfort one does not expect in a boat this size. She’s just right for the family that wants performance, but with room for everyone. I can imagine she would also make a great tender for those mega yachts cruising the Caribbean or Mediterranean.

Overview
The Sea-Doo Utopia 205 offers the unique blend of a sportboat and a bowrider in one. She has a good turn of speed, great handling, and is sure to get the adrenaline pumping out on the water.

Background
New for 2002. A "stretch" version of Sea-Doo's popular Utopia 185.

Key Features
Based on the 185, the new 205 features more legroom in the cockpit and expanded seating. While the 185 is USCG rated for 7 passengers, the 205 is rated for 8. Key features include dual swiveling bench seats that provide an open seating plan while at anchor, and a powerful, water-hugging 240-hp Mercury waterjet powerplant for safe operation in skinny water.

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General Information
Test Results
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Detailed Info
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Source: BoatTest.com