Invictus SX200

An open practical sports boat that oozes Italian style and build quality.

It is a highly versatile pleasure boat that has several innovative design features, utilising virtually every square inch of space.

The phrase ‘Boston Whaler lookalike’ sums up so many boats that use an effective seagoing design for a simplistic, practical open boat. The truth of the matter is that such boats represent the lion’s share of sub-25ft boat sales, and with good reason. Being a practical open boat with a broad purpose, the Invictus SX200 certainly belongs to this club.

However, it is Italian, which explains why it is available in no fewer than four hull colours: Blue Whale, Personal White, Dark Shadow and Attack Grey. Internally, all versions sport the traditional Invictus Yacht ivory GRP finish, with the console in Sunset Gold, and the upholstery fabrics are woven in a ‘leather effect’.

: The design maximises all usable space.

: The blunt-bow design provides maximum internal deck space.

: The ebony/white colour scheme works well.

Though its open-plan, maximum-space design will suit fishermen, the SX200 has not been created as a fishing boat. It is a highly versatile pleasure boat that has several innovative design features, utilising virtually every square inch of space. Its forward seating area can either convert to the obligatory sunbed with an infill or it has a small circular table that can be dropped in for alfresco dining. The aft section of the boat has two triple bench seats, which can also convert to a large sunbed with an infill. Alternatively, the seat back of the helm seat can be reversed to create a socialising area around a second circular table. Both these social spots are then served by the amidships wet bar, which is fitted with a sink and grill in standard form. There is also the option of a 42L fridge, which frankly should be standard in a boat like this, and, to be totally picky, possibly a bit larger considering how many people this 20-footer can comfortably accommodate.

The blunt flared-bow design enables this boat to accommodate twin anchor locker hatches either side of an electric windlass, which pulls a substantial stainless claw anchor through a good-sized bow roller. This makes good nautical sense, but then you can’t help but notice an absence of spring cleats, which may simply be an oversight, as Invictus have not forgotten to fit an inlaid fender rail and discreet fender D-rings on the bow and stern quarters. Power options go up to 150hp and are likely to be provided by Yamaha, giving this boat a claimed and realistic top speed of just over 30 knots. Though we have not been able to confirm it, I suspect that the transom deadrise angle is between 18 and 20 degrees, making this a medium-vee boat. The actual hull forefoot seems quite sharp, with the hull widening fairly quickly to provide the beam and buoyancy needed for the forward seating area. It would not be unreasonable to suppose that this design would serve to provide a dry ride, particularly for those lounging in the forward section.

It is actually the first in what is dubbed the ‘Capoforte’ collection, ranging in size from 18 to 28 ft. Designed by Christian Grande, this range will be built by the Italian boatyard Aschenez, and presumably then effectively rebranded by Invictus. The basic price for a white boat is 23,700 euros plus VAT, excluding delivery and engine. Though there is a bimini and a transom shower, items such as electronics, electric windlass and different hull colours are among the extras list. Invictus are hoping to have a UK dealer in place soon.