Stingray 194 LX Review

The new-for-2015 194 LX is the latest in a long line of attractive, versatile and fun-to-drive runabouts from Hartsville, SC-based Stingray Boats.

Stretching 19 feet, 6 inches in overall length, the 194 LX follows a proven bowrider layout with comfortable bucket seats with flip-up bolsters for the driver and navigator, plus lounge seating in the bow and a near full-width bench across the stern. The starboard end of the bench is left open to create a convenient pass-through, allowing unrestricted access to the integrated rear swim platform.

Open the walk-through windshield, step between the dual consoles and the spacious bow offers a comfortable, wrap-around lounger with stainless steel grab rails for added security. A drop-in bow cushion insert allows this area to be quickly converted to a large sun pad.

A large storage locker in the floor between the consoles accommodates water skis and other large items.

Generous storage lockers can be found beneath each console, while between them, a large in-floor storage locker accommodates bulky items. Snap-in carpet is a nice touch.

The stylish helm presents all the major instruments up top in classic black-on-white analogue gauges with chrome trim bezels, including a volt meter, speedometer, trim gauge, fuel gauge, tach and clock. A digital depth finder sits centred on the dash while the black-and-silver three-spoked tilt wheel offers a comfortable grip while underway.

The passenger console offers abundant storage options, a pair of adjacent beverage holders and a comfortable foot rest.

A Bimini top overhead was available to provide a break from the sun, while a large rear sunpad offers the perfect spot to dry off after a swim.

Built on Stingray’s Z-plane hull for enhanced driving performance, the 194 LX rides on a series of fin-like surfaces incorporated into the lower hull. These Z-planes act as horizontal planing faces when the boat is at idle, helping it to rocket onto plane quickly and smoothly once power is applied. With the boat up and running, the Z-planes continue to contribute by controlling spray and ensuring that the boat’s running surface passes through water that’s free of any bubbles or vortices that could reduce performance. The smooth flow of water generated by this design is said to also allow the propeller better bite, during both straight line speed and hard cornering maneuvers.

The other benefit to the Z-plane hull is that it allows the boat to achieve impressive performance with less than maximum horsepower. The 194 LX is rated to handle outboards to 150 horsepower, but our review boat was rigged with Yamaha’s new-for-2015 F115 four-stroke. Redesigned from the prop up, the new F115 s not only more powerful and compact than the previous model, but according to Yamaha, it’s the lightest outboard in the 115 horsepower four-stroke class at just 377 pounds. In fact, the new engine (officially called the F115B) is a full 24 pounds lighter than the one it replaces.

Yamaha’s new-for-2015 F115B outboard is a good match for the Stingray 194 LX, delivering thrilling performance and great fuel economy.

Between the Yamaha’s impressive low-end grunt and the Stingray’s Z-plane hull design, it doesn’t take long behind the wheel to appreciate just what magical package the 194 LX and F115B make. It’s quick, sporty and responsive – hit the gas and it pretty much leaps out of the water, rising quickly onto plane in just over three seconds. With a tiny bit of positive trim, the 115 was able to push the Stingray to 48 mph, which is plenty fast for a boat of this size.

But the real fun with this rig comes not on a straight-away, but when you throttle back a bit, and slalom through some S-curves and figure-eights. This is where Stingray’s Z-plane hull really shines, gripping the water without getting stuck, and quickly yielding a sense of confidence in its predictable, stable handling.

Fun? You bet. The Stingray 194 LX and Yamaha F115 deliver exactly the kind of spirited, sporty performance that should make this combo a real hit with families looking for huge fun and ever greater value.

Visit StingrayBoats.com for more information.

Stingray 194 LX Specs
Length: 19’6”
Beam: 94”
Dry weight: 2,325 lbs
Passenger capacity: 9
Fuel capacity: 34 gal
Water capacity: 6 gal
Maximum power: 150 hp