Campion 595i Watersports Edition Review

For more than 40 years Kelowna, British Columbia-based boat builder Campion Marine has enjoyed a well-earned reputation for building beautiful boats to the highest standards anywhere. While its runabouts, cruisers and fishing models are now sold in more than 30 countries around the world, the company has added to its already impressive lineup with a pair of new-for-2017 runabouts designed for watersports.

The all-new 20-foot 595i BR and 25-foot 645i BR Watersports Edition models share Volvo Penta’s ground-breaking Forward Drive propulsion system, enabling the boats to not only serve as versatile everyday runabouts, but add the ability to wakeboard, wake surf and waterski all in one delightful package. By taking a regular stern drive and positioning the propellers in front of the lower unit rather than behind it as in conventional models, Volvo Penta’s Forward Drive not only gives the props a cleaner bite through undisturbed water, but moves them from an exposed point behind the transom to a more protected position 27 inches farther forward, up underneath the hull and safely away from a surfer’s arms and legs in the event of a fall. It is this considerable margin of safety that allows the Forward Drive to be used for wake surfing, while still providing plenty of power and thrills for everyday boating.

The 20-foot 595i BR Watersports Edition seats seven people on its gorgeously upholstered seats, which use a soy-based foam for the cushions as part of Campion’s commitment to build its boats with the lowest carbon footprint possible. That commitment includes using a unique resin called Envirez for all the fiberglass parts, which not only gives the 595i a silky-smooth finish, but reduces CO emissions during its production.

With its stunning graphics and sleek lines, the 595i BR can’t help but turn heads everywhere it goes.

The 595i rides on Campion’s proven Apex hull design that tames big waves and delivers thrilling performance when you’re running at speed, yet retains great maneuverability when you’re putting along at idle – something that can’t be said for a traditional towboat with a V-drive. This gives the 595i BR the versatility to serve as a versatile family boat that can do more than just one thing well. It’s multi-functionality is evidenced by thoughtful features like the telescoping four-step boarding ladder in the bow, which makes it easy to hop on and out when you beach the boat for a picnic. Cavernous storage lockers under the seats accommodate a wide range of gear, while a portable, removable cooler provided as standard equipment is another nice touch.

Thoughtful touches like stainless steel grab rails and beverage holders throughout give Campion’s 595i BR luxurious comfort.

Campion’s attention to quality is clear with stainless steel hardware and LED lighting throughout. The extended rear swim platform also includes a telescoping ladder, and is color-matched to the hull. Throughout, SeaDek non-skid marine flooring provides a secure, non-slip surface that dries fast and is gentle on wet feet. A padded engine cover makes a great sunpad where you can dry off between swims, or get set for a turn out back on the wakeboard.

Plenty of storage space under the seats allow the boat to accommodate a wide range of gear.

With its standard Samson Blade wake tower, in-floor ski locker, Zero Off GPS speed control, full ballast system that adds 900 pounds of additional weight and tab system, the 595i BR takes no prisoners when it comes time for watersports. The boat throws a beautiful, long, high wake that can be easily trimmed to suit riders of any ability. Crank up the tunes on the standard Kicker KMC20 premium six-speaker stereo (with AM/FM, Bluetooth, USB and iPod inputs) and you’re ready for all-day action.

The stunning helm console is clearly laid out, with the Zero Off GPS speed control to port.

Campion does such a thorough job outfitting this boat for fun on the water that there isn’t a lot left over for the option list. That said, the Premium Tower Package, which includes LED lights, chrome speakers, a tow mirror, Typhoon board racks and a Bimini top, is a worthwhile upgrade, perhaps along with the bow filler cushion to create a second sun pad up front. But even if you go crazy and load the boat completely, you’ll still spend far less money than if you had bought a dedicated wakeboard boat – and you’ll enjoy all sorts of extra utility besides.

The extended rear swim platform includes a telescoping boarding ladder, and is color-matched to the hull.

Campion’s 595i BR Watersports Edition is a versatile and beautifully made family boat that truly over-delivers on value. If you’re looking for a well-made runabout that can do it all, then look no further.

Specifications

Length: 20’
Beam: 8’ 2”
Dry weight: 2,346 lbs.
Fuel capacity: 42 gals.
Passenger Capacity: 7
Max power: 350 hp