Splash Report – Forbes 36

November 3, 2013 By InTheBite Editor

Irving Forbes, Forbes 36

Forbes 36

Irving Forbes, a one-time mate for the legendary Carolina boatbuilder and waterman Omie Tillet, is another in a long line of charter captain-turned-boatbuilder. He founded Forbes Boat Works in 1986 and continues to build his vessels in the classic Carolina style of functionality and style, with eye-catching lines and head-turning performance.

Forbes learned the boatbuilding business as a shop foreman for Buddy Davis during the Buddy Davis Boatworks days and it’s clear that he learned a lot from Davis and the other Carolina builders–Forbes boats feature the classic beauty of the flared Carolina hull and a seaworthiness that more than holds their own in the rough waters of the Gulf Stream.

But not all designs need to be large, diesel-powered sportfishermen. Forbes also builds smaller boats that are powered by outboards, making them a fuel- and cost-efficient option for those who are looking to downsize from a larger vessel or who would like to add a smaller boat to their fishing fleet. The Forbes 36 is a perfect example. Powered by a pair of 300hp Yamaha outboards, she is expected to cruise at 30 knots while burning just 23 gallons per hour at 4,300 RPMs. Advancing the throttles to 5,600 RPMs and the boat should top 44 knots at 46 gallons per hour. Those are very efficient numbers, a testament to the efficiency of the boat’s hull design which is also aided by the use of high-tech construction materials including Corecell foam and West System epoxy resin. No wood is used in the construction of the Forbes 36.

The center console style allows for complete fishability. The 36 has her outriggers mounted on the custom T-top, which means an angler has a much easier time moving around the boat from cockpit to bow with rod in hand. This design makes her perfect for not only chasing pelagics in the Gulf Stream but also for a variety of other kinds of fishing closer to shore. From sight-casting to cobia to bottom fishing for grouper and snapper, she’s well-suited to do it all. And with a draft less than two feet she’s also at home cruising the shallow banks that would be off limits to inboard-powered boats. As with all Forbes boats, the Carolina craftsmanship and pride in construction is noticeable at every turn.

SPECIFICATIONS