Boat test for the 2008 Sessa 36 Open with boat pictures, boat specifications, and boat test results. Includes pricing, videos, engine test reviews, and ratings for the 2008 Sessa 36 Open.

The Sessa 36 is a solid dayboat and a great Bahamas runner, but she also makes a great overnighter thanks to her below-deck accommodations. Forward is a V-berth (5'2"x5'10") that becomes a double thanks to a filler cushion. But the real magic here is the aft cabin. Since the boat is powered by outboards, there's space under the helm for another double berth (with filler cushion) or two singles. Two elongated amidships windows—about the length of the aft cabin—let light into this space. It's a great place to hang out or get a good night's rest before shooting back across the 'Stream from Bimini.

The look down here is quite contemporary, with light-oak veneers offsetting dark leather on the dining table and V-berth and the stainless steel galley countertops. Muir told me the upscale look was inspired by the builder's 46-footer. An optional 26-inch Samsung LCD TV here helps deal with rainy days at the dock.

But there was no rain and no TV-watching on test day. Conditions were picture perfect: warm temperatures, blue sky, and water that was varying shades of teal—the very environment in which this boat really shines. Sessa's 36 Open possesses all of the class and attractive form European-built boats are known for, all of the muscular performance enthusiasts love, and a profile that keeps you lookin' back at her. And once you get behind the wheel, throttle her up, and shoot this thoroughbred out of the gates, you should be feeling an ear-to-ear grin in about...six seconds.

For more information on Sessa Marine, including contact information, click here.

SPOTLIGHT ON: Extended Hardtop

The sun was head-scorching hot on test day. Too bad our test boat didn't have the optional fiberglass hardtop seen in this rendering. This piece of gear may be optional, but it should be standard. One of its great features is the extended bimini that stretches out at the push of a button to cover the aft portion of the cockpit. This arrangement offers plenty of protection from the sun while you and your guests are enjoying lunch at the cockpit table.—P.S.

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