- Marketplace
Bifold Doors and Diesel Heat: Surtees Redefines the Serious Weekend Cabin
The Night-Towing Strategic Shift
In the high-stakes world of Australian offshore fishing, the biggest hurdle isn’t always the swell—it’s the law. Surtees recognized a critical gap in the market where the massive 800 flagship, despite its popularity, was limited by a wider beam that restricted towing to daylight hours. The response is the 770 Game Fisher XL, a machine that keeps the flagship’s DNA within a precise 2.5-meter beam. This isn’t just a design choice; it is a tactical advantage that grants owners the freedom to tow at night, ensuring they hit the boat ramp before the competition even wakes up.
Refining the Offshore Basecamp
Step inside, and it becomes clear that Surtees isn’t just building a fishing platform—they are building a home for the hunt. The cabin has been extended by 250mm, creating a social hub that accommodates up to four people in total comfort. Featuring bifold glass doors, a double diesel cooker and heater, and a hot and cold water sink, the interior mirrors the amenities of a much larger vessel. Whether you are enduring a cold morning run or staying overnight on a remote reef, this layout serves as a genuine offshore basecamp.
A Masterclass in Modular Design
Versatility defines the 770 XL. The interior features a rise-and-fall table that converts into a third berth, a feature Surtees GM Cliff Schick notes has been a primary request from the community. By borrowing aesthetic cues from the 800, including a raised sheerline and a recessed anchor well, the boat possesses a sleek, contemporary profile that stands out in any marina. The deck remains open and social, certified to carry up to eight people for weekend adventures that go far beyond the fishing grounds.
Authority at the Helm
For the captain, the 770 Game Fisher XL offers a command center that prioritizes high-end technology. The helm is built to house a 19” sounder, with dedicated mounting options for radar and a roof console that keeps the VHF and sound system within arm’s reach. Surtees emphasizes that sounders, radars, and engines—recommended between 250HP and 350HP—are all “owner’s choice,” allowing for a bespoke setup tailored to specific offshore missions.
Market Momentum and Longevity
The market response has been immediate and aggressive. With seventeen units already on order, the 770 Game Fisher XL is proving its status as a highly sought-after asset for hardcore fishers and families alike. Backed by a 10-year hull warranty, this 7.7-meter titan is built to endure the harshest conditions while maintaining a luxury edge. It is proof that when the industry thinks the bar has been set, Surtees finds a way to raise it.
