Boating New Zealand was in Whakatāne on Wednesday as Surtees pulled the covers off its latest model, the 770 Game Fisher XL. First impressions coverage followed later that day.
Surtees has built a reputation on pushing its own benchmarks higher, and the 770 Game Fisher XL represents the latest step in that direction. The brief was straightforward but ambitious: take the capability of the 800 series and deliver it within a 2.5-metre beam, making it legally towable around the clock in Australia, where the wider 800 is restricted to daylight towing. The result is a boat that brings big-water attitude to a trailer-friendly footprint, without asking owners to surrender comfort or practicality in the process. With 17 units already on order ahead of the public launch, demand has wasted no time making itself known.
The raised sheerline gives the 770 Game Fisher XL a contemporary, purposeful profile that stands out on the water, but the design work goes well beyond aesthetics. Step through the bifold glass doors and the cabin reveals itself as a genuine offshore base rather than an afterthought. A double diesel cooker and heater, a pull-out drawer fridge, a hot and cold water sink, and a rise-and-fall table that converts to a third berth are all fitted as standard. A new front-to-back passenger seat adds further versatility, and generous dry storage means the interior stays organised on extended trips.
Drawing directly from the flagship 800, the 770 Game Fisher XL comes with a recessed anchor well and Seadek as standard across the foredeck, walk-around cabin, and topsides. The cabin is 250mm longer, comfortably seating up to four people, while the 2500mm beam keeps the deck open enough to accommodate up to eight on board. That combination makes the 770 Game Fisher XL equally at home on a social family weekend or a serious offshore fishing trip with a full crew.
Helm ergonomics have received equal attention. Space has been allocated for a 19-inch sounder, radar mounting options are built in, and a roof console keeps the VHF and sound system within easy reach. Sounder, radar, and engine choices are left to the owner, with the Surtees team available to help configure each build to suit individual requirements.
