Hello, looking to purchase a new boat and have narrowed it down to a Donzi 35 ZR and a Formula Fastech 353.

I would appreciate any advice from those who have driven these two fine boats. Both are more than fast enough for my needs.

Handling, ride and quality of construction are where I would love some insights. Thank you.

I would choose the 35 Donzi out of those two. If you are interested outside of the two, I would also look at the 33 Active Thunder. It is the same size less built in swim platform and is the best ride, fit, finish, cabin in its class and about the same price. It is also custom built to your spec. What power are you going to go with?

Probably run it with the Merc 496 HO's, proven engine, low maintenance. 850HP will more than enough for me, how these boats drive is my big question. I hear that the Formula while it has excellent fit and finish is a 10 year old hull design and the Donzi has a much better ride due to a cutting edge hull that is less than 2 years old.

Thanks I will take a look at the Thunder.

The Formula is a nice boat, solid and well made...but you're right about the "old" hull design. I'd go with the Donzi, better performance, better price point and also well made. I faced a similar decision last year and eliminated the Formula for the reasons outlined above, but ended up with the 38ZR. I was convinced the staggered setup and additional length was really the way to go. I'm glad I did, I don't think you can buy a better ride for the price. Do your homework on the price and you may be surprised.

Donzi hands down.

ZR all the way!! Donzi hit a home run with them!!

I have driven both boats. The Donzi is like driving a Ferarri and the Formula is more like a Bentley. I personally don’t like the freeboard on both boats and the cabin height. The Donzi will run 78-80 MPH with 496 He’s and 85 with 496HO CMI combo. The Formula is probably runs 73-74mph with same set up. The formula is better in rough because of weight and the Donzi gets a little light at top speed but I was in a 525EFI boat.

Check out the 33 Active Thunder and let me know what you think? The 33 has a two page as in the new Powerboat.

Is the Donzi ZR the lower freeboard sitdown only Donzi? If it is it may depend a lot on where you boat.

Donzi

donzi lightning bay marine