They are designed to be maintenance free and are built to last. That's probably why the first 20 Limestone 17 models (fifteen center console and five twin console craft) were snapped up as soon as they were hand built by Medeiros Boat Works in Oakville, Ontario last year.

For 1996, Medeiros has completely retooled the 17-foot runabout and it is expected that most of the planned production of 70 boats will be booked long before the ice leaves Canadian waterways. Limestone customers are known to keep coming back. With nine models from 17 to 24 feet, there's enough variety to keep buyers brand loyal.

This kind of customer loyalty is nothing new to Medeiros. Since company president Al Medeiros started building boats fifteen years ago. over two hundred models have been sold, and the company knows almost every owner personally. Many buyers visit the Oakville operation while their craft is being built by the ten man manufacturing team. Lucy Medeiros, the company's vice-president, says that they like to work with their customers to ensure that all their needs are met.

The Limestone 17 twin console is designed to meet a variety of needs. On a frosty day in October, we discovered it to be a solid cold water performer. Pushed by a 90 hp Mercury outboard with the speedometer holding a steady 40 mph, we toured Lake Joseph, examining all of the stately summer homes of Ontario's well-heeled elite.

The frost and wispy snowflakes drifting through the air did little to impede the Limestone's leap to full plane position. A conservative estimate puts time to plane at about three seconds.

The vessel's 19 degree deadrise and hull design (styled by Mark Ellis), provides a very dry ride. Even at full bore, the captain need have little fear of getting wet.

A combination of broad chines and smooth bottom provide a very stable platform whether on the go or sitting stationary. Passengers can move around without rocking the boat. This quality makes the Limestone 17 ideal for fishing. With a beam of 7'6" there's ample room to move forward and back without encountering obstacles. And there's enough seating space to make the day a family affair. Twin pedestal bucket seats with snap-in cushions are mounted facing the consoles. The pilot's swivels. Two more cushioned areas have been designed in front of the consoles. A large stainless steel bow rail (an option) offers an emergency grip. There are also rails encompassing the twin consoles. Both provide extra assistance when moving fore or aft.

As for storing away your fishing gear or towing toys, there are a host of sites. Cabinets have been built into both consoles. The passenger console also has a lockable glove box. As well. there's a large hinged locker built into the floor and a massive storage space in the bow.

The heavy duty rub rail surrounding the boat also boasts impressive proportions. It's a nice addition that will provide peace of mind when less experienced drivers are given their time at the wheel.

At the helm, speedometer, tachometer, fuel, trim and volt gauges are lined up across the dash, above the tilt wheel in full view. Switches are set on either side of the wheel with the bilge pump (an option) button more remotely located to starboard. The driver's console has everything you need.

If you would like to add a couple more touches to the craft, the optional equipment list includes side rails, a ski eye and swim platforms.

On the boat tested, there wasn't a collection of live wells, bait wells and rod holders to make the 17 a true fish boat. There is a ski pylon and rotating passenger seat available. The Limestone 17 was created to offer boaters a versatile alternative for a range of boating needs. And it does.

-Stephen Weir