New Con Fly FIRST review
Boat · 26 ft (8 m) · Venice
expert score
Key specs
- Builder
- Rendez Vous Fantasia
- Model
- New Con Fly First
- Length
- 26 ft (8 m)
- Guests
- 4
- Cabins
- 2
Verdict
A compact Italian houseboat with genuine liveaboard comfort for its size, best suited to relaxed river and lagoon cruising rather than spirited passage-making. Strong cabin count, practical amenities, and easy-going handling make it attractive for families or small groups, but the modest 30 hp engine limits pace and he
Pros
- +Two double cabins plus convertible sleeping make it flexible for up to 6–7 guests.
- +Houseboat layout offers good interior space for its 29 ft length.
- +Air conditioning and Wi‑Fi improve onboard comfort for longer stays.
- +Suitable for river, lagoon, and sheltered coastal use.
Cons
- −30 hp engine means limited speed and modest reserve in wind or current.
- −Older 1999 build may show more wear than newer charter boats.
- −Only one small engine for a houseboat this size can feel underpowered when fully loaded.
- −Best for sheltered waters, not demanding offshore conditions.
The New Con Fly First is an Italian-built houseboat designed around practical cruising comfort rather than performance. At about 29 ft, it uses its volume efficiently, with two double cabins, two bathrooms, and additional sleeping capacity that makes it a workable option for families or small groups. The layout is more functional than stylish, but it is well matched to inland waterways and lagoon cruising.
On the water, the single 30 hp diesel engine points clearly to low-speed, displacement-style operation. That is fine for calm river and lagoon routes, and it should be straightforward to handle for short passages and docking, but it will not feel lively and can be affected by wind or current when fully loaded. Autopilot and GPS add some navigational ease, though they do not change the boat’s fundamentally leisurely character.
Comfort is a strong point for the size. Air conditioning and Wi‑Fi are useful charter amenities, and the sleeping arrangement is better than many boats in this segment. The main caveat is that this is a 1999 model, so condition and finish will depend heavily on maintenance. Overall, it offers solid value for guests prioritizing space and simple cruising over speed or polish.
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