Supra Boats teams up with Volvo Penta to improve towboat experience

　　Image courtesy of Supra Boats

　　Supra boats, the towboat brand, has announced a collaboration with Volvo Penta, a leader in marine propulsion technology. 

　　The partnership introduced Volvo Penta’s Forward Drive system to Supra’s flagship SE model, combining familiar sterndrive handling with the performance of a premium towboat. 

　　According to Rob Loucks, R&D project manager at Skier’s Choice (manufacturer of the Supra brand) for years, boaters have been accustomed to sterndrive or outboard platforms, and have faced a learning curve when transitioning to inboard towboats “without sacrificing surf waves or wakeboard wake performance.” 

　　Loucks adds: “This was not an easy task and required us to develop new technologies which are patent pending.” To address these challenges, the Supra SE Forward Driven concept was born, said to fill this gap by delivering intuitive handling without compromising wake performance. 

　　Volvo Penta’s Forward Drive features dual-counter-rotating propellers mounted 67.3 centimetres forward of a traditional sterndrive. This arrangement delivers handling characteristics familiar to sterndrive boaters. 

　　It is said to enhance manoeuvrability, allow adjustable trim for smoother cruising, increase top-end speed, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce noise. 

　　Combining Supra’s patented and pending technologies with Supra’s SE model – the largest in the lineup at 7.5 metres – with seating for 18, the Forward Driven concept could demonstrate a platform that attracts a new segment of boating enthusiasts to the towboat market. 

　　Ryan Lewis, product manager for Supra Boats, comments: “This partnership represents an exciting evolution in how we think about bringing new boaters into the premium towboat segment.

　　“The Volvo Forward Drive gives boaters the confidence to make the transition from sterndrive platforms while experiencing the superior wake performance that Supra is known for. We’re eliminating the intimidation factor and opening doors for more families to experience world-class towed water sports.”

　　The concept was presented at the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) Dealer Week (7-10 December 2025) in Tampa, Florida, giving the industry a chance to experience the technology.