RANIERI NEXT 255 LX, the daycruiser with a new style

Ranieri International NEXT 255 LX, the new model presented by the Soverato-based shipyard, confirms the strong desire to improve every year.

The NEXT 255 LX incorporates all the main features of the NEXT 275, which we previously wrote about, while reducing the overall length to 7.8 meters. The lines reflect the family style that characterizes Ranieri International, and the NEXT range is an undeniable success thanks to its exceptional qualities, both in terms of usability and marine performance.

On board, circulation is easy, and it is immediately clear that the shipyard has extensive experience in creating boats for the Mediterranean Sea. In my opinion, the Ranieri NEXT 255 LX offers a lot, and within its 8 meters, it has everything you need for a day or a weekend at sea.

RANIERI NEXT 255 LX – Exteriors

Boarding from the stern, the two swim platforms framing the outboard are well-proportioned, providing easy access to the boat’s dinette. Here, a seat with a reclining backrest allows us to choose whether we want to sit facing the sea, sipping a nice cocktail, or turn towards the bow for dinner, thanks to the table that can be easily installed.

Even though the Ranieri NEXT 255 LX is the smaller sibling in the family, the central unit is equipped with a spacious refrigerator, a cooking grill, and a well-proportioned worktop. On both sides of the unit, the shipyard has placed two foldaway seats that can be opened when needed to increase seating capacity.

The helm station is served by a comfortable three-person seat, and the dashboard is well-equipped with a very practical and easy-to-use button panel on the starboard side. The SIMRAD display provides a clear reading of the data.

The roll bar is highly functional, featuring a modern design that incorporates dual shade canopies for the stern and helm areas. The matte black color complements the handrails positioned along the entire stern gunwale and side-decks, which are very useful during navigation for those who want to move around. The bow section accommodates a well-sized sunbathing area with a forward-facing seat, which is not always a given on boats of this size.

RANIERI NEXT255 LX – Interior

Keeping in mind that we’re on a boat just under eight meters, the interior space is far from small. On the right, there’s a separate bathroom and a medium-sized bed that allows for a fairly comfortable sleep.

Sea Trial

This model is powered by a SUZUKI DF 300, and today we’ll put it to the test because sea and wind conditions are not ideal—there’s a half-meter wave and about 20 knots of wind, with forecasts predicting further intensification.

I leave the mooring and immediately try to find a more sheltered area to avoid the gusts. The windshield, although not very tall, provides sufficient protection. I push the throttle a bit and reach 1700 RPM with a speed of 6 knots, and the fuel consumption shown on the screen is 7.30 L/hr. I look for the cruising speed to see how the hull responds to the waves and slightly rough sea. At 3500 RPM, my speed is 15.8 knots, and the boat planes smoothly over the waves.

I push further; the acceleration is good. At 4500 RPM, my speed is around 25 knots, and this is where the adrenaline kicks in because with these sea conditions and an 8-meter boat, going beyond this really tests the hull.

Here we go—6000 RPM and 40 knots. The boat remains stable, even though the waves are noticeable on the bow. The steering wheel is still smooth, but we clearly need to stay seated due to the vibrations. The windshield does its job, and we’re at the maximum: 6100 RPM and 42 knots, challenging but still manageable. I throttle down to make a couple of turns in these waves, heading the bow straight into the oncoming sea. I reduce the throttle again and return to a cruising speed of 18 knots. Turning and counter-turning, there are some bumps, but nothing to worry about. The screen shows fuel consumption of 26 L/hr, and at this speed, the NEXT 255 LX finds its balance and economic cruising speed. I return to the dock feeling very satisfied and, most importantly, dry—a notable feat considering the conditions. The RANIERI NEXT 255 LX is certainly impressive in terms of functionality, fuel efficiency, and the great advantage of being easily trailerable without any issues.

Test Data

RANIERI NEXT 255 LX – Technical Specs