Smart Cruising: Formula 400 SSC’s Tech Revolution
The 2020 Formula 400 SSC (40 ft) in Mantoloking, New Jersey, is built around a modern electronics and control architecture that shifts routine boating tasks from manual effort to coordinated systems. This example pairs a high-performance power package—quad Mercury L6-400 Verados with 411 hours and a Westerbeke 7.5 kW generator—with an array of integrated electronics: Raymarine navigation with radar and dual XL screens, JPO joystick and bow thruster, iPad digital switching, FLIR night vision, and an automatic outboard engine flushing system. Onboard amenities such as satellite TV ($20K upgrade), HDTV with Blu-ray, JL Audio cockpit speakers, and 120V shore power are supported by the same centralized systems, making both passage planning and onboard life simpler to manage.
By consolidating navigation, propulsion control, systems switching, and safety sensors, the Formula’s electronics reduce workload and improve situational awareness. Large-format Raymarine displays present critical information clearly; the JPO joystick and bow thruster translate small helm inputs into coordinated propulsion for low-speed handling; and the iPad digital switching system lets the operator manage electrical loads and comfort systems from a familiar interface. Together these systems promote safer and more efficient operation whether underway, approaching a dock, or operating after dark.
Effortless Docking: JPO Joystick and Bow Thruster
The JPO joystick on this 400 SSC integrates with the quad Mercury outboards to provide proportional, multi-axis control at low speeds. Instead of relying on throttle-and-rudder inputs alone, the joystick issues a single-command vector that the drive electronics translate into coordinated thrust from each engine. The result is predictable lateral moves, on-the-spot rotation, and fine positioning that make close-quarters maneuvers substantially easier to execute, particularly for a single operator or small crew.
Paired with a dedicated bow thruster, the joystick delivers immediate lateral authority at the bow to counter wind, current, or asymmetric thrust. That combination shortens docking time, reduces the need for extensive line handling and fender work, and lowers the likelihood of contact with pilings or neighboring boats. Owners will find approaches to narrow slips, tight windward berths, and busy marinas less stressful and more repeatable as a direct consequence of this integrated control scheme.
Command and Clarity: Raymarine Radar, GPS Dual Screens
The Raymarine suite fitted to this Formula includes radar, GPS, and dual XL screens that support both redundancy and task-specific displays. One screen can present electronic charts and route information while the other shows radar returns or other sensor overlays. The larger-format displays improve readability in daylight and allow the operator to keep navigation, radar, and status information visible simultaneously without swapping pages or modes.
Radar combined with GPS position fixes expands situational awareness beyond what a chart plotter alone can provide, detecting contacts in reduced visibility and providing range/bearing data for collision assessment. The dual-screen layout helps during approaches and coastal runs by allowing immediate cross-reference of targets and planned track. When used with the boat’s VHF and other onboard systems, the Raymarine package serves as the operational backbone for safe navigation in variable conditions.
Integrated Control & Safety: iPad Switching, FLIR, Service
Digital switching via the onboard iPad centralizes control of the Formula’s electrical and comfort systems—lighting, air conditioning, generator functions, shade systems, and onboard entertainment—into an intuitive touchscreen interface. Centralized switching reduces panel clutter at the helm, provides clear load status, and enables quick changes from either the helm or a tablet on deck. This level of convenience shortens response time for common tasks and provides a consistent operational model for new operators.
Safety and routine maintenance are also addressed through electronics and automation. FLIR night-vision capability extends visibility after dark and complements the boat’s bow docking lights, spreader lights, and underwater blue LEDs for low-light operations. An automatic outboard engine flushing system simplifies post-cruise maintenance for the four Verado outboards, helping preserve performance and lowering long-term ownership costs. Freshly surveyed and priced for a quick year-end sale, this 2020 Formula 400 SSC is equipped to make modern cruising more manageable.
Inquire now to speak with a specialist at Panacea Yacht Group and step aboard the future of sport cruising.