Bonito 535

Recognising that a cabin in a boat this size is really only ever going to be a place to stow gear or get out of the weather, Bonito have kept things reasonably simple. The 535 cabin offers enough headroom for a couple of adults seated and the side squabs whilst being narrow forward are still nearly 2 m long. There is the option of an infill if you particularly want to turn the space into a large double, but it’s hardly worth it in a boat this size. Storage space is divided between three dedicated spaces under the squabs and also in very wide side trays behind thickly padded backrests. Don’t think about fitting a small head, as there’s simply not enough space. A large TaylorMade Sandbrook deck hatch provides excellent access forward when anchoring, with the deck locker within easy reach. There’s room for a small capstan and Bonito have not skimped on the size of the fairlead or bollard, plus the stainless steel chain plate stops any damage to the fiberglass deck. With the extra pods moulded onto the transom the cockpit of the 535 is fractionally longer than the 522 in the rear corners, although the internal beam remains the same. The cockpit now offers more storage areas, with twin hatches opening to a hefty wet locker under the floor. This area is reduced in size however when you fit the optional 100-litre fuel tank, but one added bonus is that due to the floor being raised (compared to the 522) there is now room enough to drop in up to four tote tanks instead. There are wide side trays with space for rod racks and they are long enough for skis or a wakeboard. A smaller compartment beside the driver provides a dry area for the cellphone, wallet, keys, etc. The windscreen is a little lower than on the 522 and the redesigned facia allows for more and larger flush mounted electronics and a full array of instrumentation. I liked the driving position, as well as the fact that I could slide the seat base out of the way when standing. The footrest is a good feature to aid comfort when seated. Bonito has now built a moulded floor section that runs chine to chine and part way up the side of the hull. This moulded infill is also used on two of Bonito’s other models, the 585 and 635 and will soon be incorporated in its full range. Interestingly, the construction still includes a plywood cockpit sole, with the fiberglass liner sitting on top, rather than replacing it altogether as is common with other manufacturers. “Not only does the liner decrease production time, it presents a cleaner and more durable surface, that owners will find easier to maintain” said Peter.