2011 Campion Explorer 682b SC

By: Matt Spencer

The 2011 Campion Explorer 682 has a ton of new features, with perhaps the most exciting being the one you can�t see.

Our test boat was completely built with Ashland Envirez bio-based resin, a natural product using soybean and ethanol in its formulation, resulting in superior strength and performance. By using Envirez in its entire lineup, Campion will eliminate over 100,000 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions.

The first major VISIBLE feature on the 682 is at the transom. The previous twin 150s have been replaced with a single 300-hpmotor in response to the fact that more consumers are switching to single-engine applications � largely because it�s cheaper and lighter.

Although the 682 is also available in gas and diesel I/O applications, the outboard translates into more space in the cockpit, where there are large in-floor fish lockers, high gunwales and a removable aft bench.

And if you�re who this Explorer was made for � someone who heads out in all kinds of conditions � you�ll want to make sure to add the optional hardtop. Not only great for foul weather days, it�s also perfect for escaping the sun, and the large sliding windows provide great ventilation and visibility.

The standard seating layout is twin, swivelling captain�s chairs, but our test boat had the optional fold-down passenger seat that doubles as a sleeper; a great combo with the full camper top.

Speaking of sleeping, the accommodations in the cabin are first rate. From the dinette sleeper, to the galley with butane stove, optional refrigerator and marine head, the Explorer 682 has everything you would need to overnight.

Out on the water the boat proved it�s built for offshore with its Kevlar-reinforced hull riding confidently and smoothly, and carving crisp and stable turns. The Yamaha F300 provided plenty of power, responding instantly with not just a nudge but an absolute shove as I put the throttles down and topped out at 51 mph.

Incidentally, my first boat test was a Campion. I have to say the 2011 Explorer 682 paired with the Yamaha F300 inspired the same excitement all over again.