Saying you’re committed to product excellence is one thing. Showing it is another. Sea Ray has introduced three SLX series bowriders in the past 18 months – the 210, 250 and 270 – each of them a confident step forward in aesthetics and ergonomic design. Now comes the all-new 230 SLX, a model that integrates the evolutions of its siblings and adds a few of its own.

Sea Ray’s executive-class SLX models are known for their blend of precision performance and premium amenities. The 230 embodies both of these traits with its new and innovative Active Trim Control (ATC), an option that optimizes the boat’s performance and running attitude, and also changes wake height and shape to improve the quality of waterskiing and wakeboarding. (See the ATC press release for details.)

In addition to this significant feature, the 230 is packed from stem to stern with everything owners have come to expect from Sea Ray and the SLX series. Starting outside and working in, owners can choose two-tone or full-color hull gel coat in black, blue, burgundy or patina. Special graphics and hull-bottom color options are also available, allowing an unprecedented level of personalization. A black, forward-facing, folding tower option includes an integrated bimini top and anchor light and adds an aggressive, sporty appearance to the boat.

The bow offers a pair of generous lounges with hinged storage compartments beneath and topped with marine-grade, UV-coated vinyl for easy care and comfort. The upholstery throughout the 230 is two-tone for refined stylishness and is available in a choice of color schemes that allow owners to match it to their gel coat. Premium stainless-steel grab handles and cup holders are close at hand, as are two of the boat’s four weatherproof speakers, which serve the standard Sony stereo with CD player and iPod® connector.

A custom, black-framed, walkthru windshield leads aft into the cockpit. This solid, three-piece structure increases visibility, as side supports have been eliminated; plus, its tempered and tinted glass promotes a long life of dependable use. Driver-focused luxury and assurance at the helm starts with a soft-touch dash featuring double-top stitching and a power-assisted tilt wheel with wood accents. SmartCraft® diagnostic instruments, chrome toggle switches and a chrome-accented throttle with power trim also come standard.

Two bucket seats come with flip-up thigh-rise bolsters and swivel/slide functions for customizable comfort for the captain and portside passenger. A lockable glove box and cockpit side panels provide ample room for storage – as does the in-floor wakeboard locker with vinyl matting and gas-assisted lid. Aft, an L-shaped bench seat features more built-in storage and a cooler beneath. Those who prefer a cozy seat overlooking the water when at anchor will love the transom sun pad that quickly converts to an aft-facing seat. The swim pad is integral, not bolted on, and includes a stainless-steel, three-step ladder mounted underneath.

The 230 is an obliging and robust performer, with power coming from an optimized selection of engine choices ranging from the standard MerCruiser 5.0L MPI Bravo III (260 hp) up to a 350 MAG Bravo III DTS (300 hp). Other add-ons and upgrades allow the owner to literally and figuratively deck-out their ride: SeaDek padding for the swim pad, air compressor for water toys, indirect blue LED lighting, transom stereo remote and even a Boatmate® Platinum Premium Trailer with color-matched paint scheme, radial tires, Sea Ray backlit logo and more.

The new 230 SLX is another confident step forward as Sea Ray continues to redefine its SLX line. Don’t expect it to be the last.