My friend is looking at a 290 SC. Can you guys provide me with some information such as speed with a 496ho, How well does it handle in rough waters? He is looking at a 2008 model any issues or things he should be looking at? Quality, cabin and cock pit space. We have never been in a Velocity what other line of boat would it compare to? Thanks for any info you can provide.

Is there such a thing as a family boat that can trace a lake at 73 mph? The Velocity 290 SC fits that bill, so it's perfect for the fast family.

A new boat for 2004 built on the chassis of Velocity's record-holding VR-1, this is the latest creation of Steve Stepp, owner and president of Florida-based Initial Marine Corp. A veteran boat racer since the 1960s, Stepp launched his first Velocity, with its trademark pad bottom and notched transom, in 1978. The 290 SC maintains those roots, but with a bit more practicality.

OK, first the family stuff. There's a fully enclosed head with sink. In the forward berth are leather couches that become an additional sleeping spot, and a flat-screen TV with DVD player.

But this family room can handle an engine of up to 575 hp. With a 496 MAG (425 hp) and a four-blade prop it hits a reported 73 mph -- just 2 mph less than the VR-1 with the same motor. It has an ergonomically designed command center with Gaffrig throttle controls and instrumentation. A through-transom exhaust emits a satisfying growl.

When your crew (seats for five and space for a couple more) tires of TV and fast action, the large engine hatch beckons as a sun pad. Nearby, the molded-in swim platform and foldaway ladder make the link between dry and wet an easy one, another reminder that this speedster's a family boat in every way.

Go for it...

As Velocity Vector noted great all around boat. Lose a couple of MPH because of the raised deck on the SC verses the VR-1. Handles chop well. Having K planes help when you get into some big chop. Plenty of room below deck. It's a boat you can have a lot of fun with performance wise and be practical if you have a family. Well built. I have an 05 with 71 hrs for sale with a 525 if he is interested in moving up in power. Probably talking around the same money for both. Good luck..

Can you send pics and info? to [email protected]

While I like the looks of my 280 better then the 290 SC they are great boats and love the cabin.

I have an 04, great boat. It handles rough water better than I expected. I'm getting 70-71mph on fumes, but my prop could use some tweaking and a cleanup job. Space is great in the cabin compared to a Baja or Fountain of similar size, it has moderate headroom. I don't think a 27 Fountain with a 496 Mag can break 70 so it's definitely a good performer for it's size.

What props are you guys running? Have any of you experimented with different props? Which seems to be the best for speed? I am impressed with you guys getting 70 to 72 mph with a 496ho. That is incredable for a 29 single. Thanks.

Labbed 28 Bravo four blade is what it came with when it was new. My understanding is a labbed 27 four blade hydromotive will bring approximately the same speed. I also have a 28 Hydromotive four blade non labbed, but slightly to much prop, with the 496HO.

290sc are a great family/rough water boat my 2008 flies has a 600 sc getting 82 mph on gps all day long , it has a open bow /mid cabin might be looking to sell and upgrade to a twin 39ft .

Send the 28 hydro to Mike at Hall propeller and let him know the rpms speed etc and have him tweak it.