Boat test for the 2008 Marquis 70 Tri-Deck with boat pictures, boat specifications, and boat test results. Includes pricing, videos, engine test reviews, and ratings for the 2008 Marquis 70 Tri-Deck.

But some things haven't changed. For starters the 70 is a performer, just like the 57—perhaps because both hulls are the work of Blount. In fact, for a vessel of her size, the 70's helm response is remarkable, thanks to her electro-hydraulic steering, and she tracks more like she's got Metroliner on her sides than Marquis. A top speed of 33.2 mph is all you could ask from a vessel like this (the 59 topped out at just under 35 mph), and if anything, the 70 is even quieter across the board.

Neither has construction changed. All Marquis hulls are foam-cored below the waterline and balsa-cored above and feature a lineal-span rail engine-mounting system and one-inch-thick bulkheads that are triple-bonded on all edges, creating what is essentially a series of ring frames. The superstructure-pilothouse unibody is just as burly, being balsa-cored and based on an aluminum truss system that is welded to a similar frame in the deck, after which the two fiberglass portions are bonded to each other. Such attention to structural detail explains how Marquis earned the European Union's Classification A, the most rigid of four CE categories, which indicates the ability to withstand a Force 8 (40-knot) wind and 13-foot seas.

Part of the reason for Marquis' success is the replication of such construction and other specifications in all seven models, be it the 42 or this boat. The 70 is the largest, but she feels much larger than the boat she replaces as flagship, the 65, because she's the first Marquis trideck. The pilothouse (an open-bridge version is also available) from which I am piloting her is comfortable, air-conditioned, bar-equipped, glass-enclosed, retractable-TV'd, and accessed internally from the saloon or externally from the cockpit. If there's any criticism I can muster about this sybaritic spot, it's that it's so isolated from the outside, I'm in danger of nodding off.

You couldn't ask for better sightlines or a more comfortable and luxurious driving position.

In fact, the pilothouse almost makes the saloon seem superfluous. The amenities, like handmade Italian Poltrona Frau leather furniture, are basically the same in both places. But of course, there's a major-league galley below, which means most meals will probably be taken on that level, at the big circular dining table. But if this boat had a dumbwaiter I bet no one would venture out of the pilothouse, except to sleep.

And for that, two plans are available. Both have a full-beam (18'4") amidships master, forepeak VIP, and port-side, double-berth guest stateroom, all with en suite heads. The difference is in the space across from the guest stateroom, which can be either a walk-in closet (standard) or a fourth stateroom with right-angle berths, as on our boat. Before you decide which you want, note that there is also another cabin all the way aft, accessed via the transom and equipped with its own head. It functions equally well as a kid's stateroom or captain's quarters.

Today, it's things like that flexibility, more than the remarkable story of Marquis' creation, that really define the brand. And that's true on both sides of the Atlantic.

For more information on Marquis Yachts, including contact information, click here.

SPOTLIGHT ON: Marquis Docking System

Docking a 70-footer—even one with a deep gear reduction like our Marquis—can be a real challenge, especially when there's current, wind, or a tight slip. Or, heaven forbid, all three. This optional cockpit control station makes the job a lot easier, since it not only includes engine controls but also ties into the Marquis Docking System. This standard feature is basically a Side-Power bow and stern thruster, both big and powerful enough to really make a difference. The 13-hp units, which are enclosed in 10-inch tunnels, generate more than 500 pounds of thrust each. And if you decide you don't want the cockpit control, don't worry. A wireless remote control for the Marquis Docking System is included at no charge.—R.T.

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