Just out of the molds, this is the first Active Thunder 33′ Evolution to be powered by outboard engines.

Although Active Thunder based in Pompano, Beach, Fla., has built five inboard/stern-drive 33-foot-long Evolution V-bottoms since the model was introduced in 2007, the company’s first outboard-engine-powered version has just been popped from the molds and is ready for interior installation and rigging. When completed, the closed-deck, DDC (Duo Delta Conic) stepped hull model will have a complete cabin and a large cockpit with seating for nine.

Twin 300-hp Yamaha outboard engines will power the boat.

“We’ve had a lot of people ask us about building an outboard-powered 33,” said Patrick Haughey of Active Thunder. “They ask us how many we’ve built, and we say, ‘None.’”

Haughey paused then laughed. “They usually say, “Huh. Well let us know when you build your first one and then we’ll order one.”

Twin 300-hp Yamaha engines should get the boat to run in the low 70-mph range.

Not only did the buyer of the 33-footer want the unusual power choice, he asked the builder to retain the engine compartment, which would usually be removed for added cockpit space. Instead, the new owner is having the engine compartment configured as an extra-large stowage locker. The outboards will be mounted on a Stainless Marine bracket attached to the transom.

Active Thunder also is having a stainless-steel towing bracket built for the bow of the boat so that the owner can pull it behind his Nordhavn trawler-style yacht.

“He wants to be able to pull into a harbor, live on the yacht and use the 33 to get around,” said Haughey.

Haughey has been consulting with veteran marine industry engineer Allan Brown and longtime hull designer and innovator Harry Schoell—Schoell created the patented DDC hull design—on the project.

“They’ve crunched the numbers, and they’re pretty sure the boat will top out between 73 and 75 mph,” said Haughey.

Editor’s Note: Speedonthewater.com will provide updates on this model as is moves through the production process.