Essex Performance Boats took a big step when it introduced its 28 Fusion in early 2008. The 28-foot deck boat was the first catamaran in the company's lineup, which included a variety of V-bottoms between 21 and 29 feet. Putting the same effort the custom boat builder puts into its V- bottoms, the deck boat turned out to be a winner. Between an affordable price tag, with a single MerCruiser 496 Mag HO engine-and its family friendly features, the 28 Fusion deserved a closer look.
While the first few models were relatively tame power-wise, the Ontario, Calif, builder took the fourth boat from the mold a couple of steps further. The boat's owner opted for big power and wanted it fully capped from bow to stern.

Worth it? Powerboat's Test Team thought so after putting the 28-footer's 900-horsepower engine to use on the Colorado River in Parker, Ariz. Then again, we've yet to drive a lesser-powered variation.