Oracle 17

The Oracle 17 is a sport utility craft, made to be versatile and crafted to be fun. Whether you’re taking the kids for a day of watersport, or heading offshore with the boys in search of fresh fish, this craft bridges the gap between having to make the choice.

- Dean Castle

The Oracle range is no newcomer to the industry. This locally built boat has been making waves for the past couple of years, and I’m impressed to see that the fit and finish has been further improved as time has ticked by. If you need an excuse to spend more time on the water this summer, then the Oracle 17’s versatility may just be the answer.

Deck layout

The 17 foot Oracle is the ideal size between easy handling and sufficient deck space. We heading out for the day on the water – and with six persons on board, as well as a selection of slalom and trick skis, we still had enough personal bubble space to look each other in the eye afterwards. The extra-wide helm seat allows for the skipper plus one, but if you’re going to tackle the ocean, a standing position feels just right on this craft. A seat on the front of the helm can be flipped up and into place when needed, or neatly folded down to give a roomier bow area when the lines are in the water. Additional rear-facing seats are located on the bow for two crew – or for mom to be seated at with a perfect view for watching the kids learning to ski. Convenience is catered for on the Oracle 17 with steps leading up to the deck on the bow, as well on the outside of the transom leading into the boat when people need to get back onboard.