Baja 405 Boats

The Baja 405 is a popular powerboat model that combines luxury and performance. This cruiser vessel is designed for overnight trips, day cruising, and water sports activities. Baja Marine created the 405 Performance with input from customers and dealers, resulting in a boat that meets the needs of many boating enthusiasts.

Baja 405 boats are known for their impressive handling and precision steering. The model features full hydraulic steering from Latham Marine, allowing drivers to navigate with ease during various tests and maneuvers. With sizes ranging from 40 to 41 feet, the Baja 405 offers ample space for comfort and entertainment on the water.

Boat Trader currently lists 28 Baja 405 boats for sale from both private sellers and professional dealers. Prices for these vessels vary, with some models available for around $120,000 to $140,000. The Baja 405's popularity among boaters is evident in its continued presence in the used boat market.

Key Takeaways

• Baja 405 boats blend luxury and performance for various water activities
• The model features precise handling and full hydraulic steering
• Baja 405 boats are available on the used market with prices ranging from $120,000 to $140,000

Overview of Baja 405 Boats

The Baja 405 is a high-performance boat designed for speed and luxury. It offers powerful engines, sleek styling, and comfortable amenities for cruising and recreational use.

History and Evolution

Baja Marine introduced the 405 model in the mid-2000s as a replacement for their popular .38 Special. The 405 was created with input from customers and dealers to meet demand for a larger, more powerful boat. It aimed to blend speed with comfort for "gentleman's performance" boating.

The 405 built on Baja's reputation for fast boats with eye-catching designs. It featured a V-hull for smooth handling at high speeds. The cockpit had extensive seating to carry more passengers in comfort. Baja equipped the 405 with twin high-horsepower engines for impressive acceleration and top speeds.

Over time, Baja made small updates to the 405 to improve performance and features. This helped it remain competitive in the luxury performance boat market through the late 2000s and early 2010s.

Baja 405 Specifications

• Length: 40 feet
• Hull Material: Fiberglass
• Fuel Capacity: 250 gallons
• Typical Engine: Twin MerCruiser 496 HO (425 hp each)
• Top Speed: 70+ mph
• Seating Capacity: 6-8 people

The 405 has a deep-V hull design for stability. It comes with hydraulic steering for precise control. The boat includes a cabin with sleeping space and a small galley. Baja offers customization options for colors, graphics, and interior features.

Pricing for the 405 ranges from about $100,000 to $140,000 for used models, depending on condition and upgrades. New boats cost more when they were in production.

Design and Construction

The Baja 405 Performance boat features a thoughtful design that blends high-performance capabilities with comfort. It uses advanced materials and construction techniques to create a sturdy yet sleek vessel.

Hull Material and Beam

The Baja 405 has a fiberglass hull, which offers durability and relatively low maintenance. This material helps the boat stay lightweight while still being strong enough to handle rough waters.

The beam of the Baja 405 measures 9 feet 6 inches wide. This width provides good stability on the water and allows for a roomy interior layout.

Cutting-edge composites are used in the boat's construction. These modern materials help improve the boat's strength-to-weight ratio.

Interior Design and Amenities

The Baja 405's interior focuses on both style and function. The cabin layout removes bulkheads, creating an open and spacious feel.

A well-equipped galley allows for meal prep on longer trips. It likely includes essentials like a sink, refrigerator, and cooking space.

The boat features a head (bathroom) with a shower for added convenience. This allows passengers to freshen up after swimming or during extended cruises.

Electric bolsters in the cockpit add comfort for the captain and passengers. These adjustable seats help provide support during high-speed runs or relaxed cruising.

Performance and Handling

The Baja 405 delivers impressive speed and agility on the water. It combines powerful engines with responsive controls to create an exhilarating ride.

Engine Specifications

The Baja 405 comes equipped with twin 525 EFI Mercury Racing stern drives. These high-performance engines provide strong acceleration and top speeds. Each engine produces 525 horsepower for a total of 1,050 horsepower.

The 8.2-liter V8 engines use electronic fuel injection for optimal fuel delivery. This setup allows for quick throttle response and efficient operation across the RPM range.

Top speeds for the Baja 405 can exceed 70 mph in ideal conditions. Cruising speeds typically range from 40-50 mph for a balance of performance and fuel economy.

Handling Characteristics

The Baja 405 handles nimbly for its 40-foot length. Its deep-V hull design helps cut through waves for a smooth ride. At high speeds, the boat remains stable and tracks straight.

Hydraulic steering from Latham Marine provides precise control. The power steering system reduces driver fatigue during long runs or tight maneuvers.

Twin counter-rotating propellers improve grip in turns. This setup also enhances acceleration out of corners. The boat planes quickly and maintains an even attitude across a range of speeds.

Split throttle controls allow fine-tuning of each engine independently. This feature aids in docking and low-speed maneuvering around marinas.

Features and Equipment

The Baja 405 boat offers a range of features designed for comfort, performance, and convenience. It blends luxury amenities with practical elements to enhance the boating experience.

Cockpit and Deck Features

The cockpit of the Baja 405 is spacious and well-equipped. It has ample seating for passengers to relax and enjoy the ride. The seats are comfortable and made of high-quality materials that can withstand marine conditions.

The boat features a cockpit sink, which is handy for quick cleanups or food prep. The helm area has clear, easy-to-read gauges that display important information about the boat's performance and systems.

At the rear, the Baja 405 boasts an extended swim platform. This feature makes it easy to get in and out of the water. It's also great for lounging or setting up water sports equipment.

Cabin Features

Below deck, the Baja 405 offers a comfortable living space. The cabin is equipped with air conditioning, keeping passengers cool on hot days. This feature adds to the overall comfort of the boat, especially during overnight stays.

A microwave is included in the galley, allowing for quick meal preparation. This is particularly useful for longer trips or when spending extended time on the water.

The boat also includes a wet bath. This compact bathroom combines a toilet and shower in one space, making efficient use of the cabin area.

Convenience and Safety

For added convenience, the Baja 405 is equipped with a Kohler generator. This provides power for onboard appliances and systems when shore power isn't available.

Safety features are integrated throughout the boat. These may include fire extinguishers, life jackets, and emergency signaling devices.

The boat's design prioritizes both comfort and functionality. It offers a balance of performance features for exciting rides and amenities for relaxing cruises.

Ownership Experience

Buying and owning a Baja 405 brings both thrills and responsibilities. This boat offers high performance and luxury, but requires careful consideration before purchase and ongoing maintenance.

Buying a Baja 405

The Baja 405 is a premium boat with a price tag to match. New models can cost over $300,000. Used boats may range from $100,000 to $200,000 depending on age and condition.

Buyers should work with experienced yacht brokers who know these boats. A thorough marine survey is vital before purchase. This checks the hull, engines, and systems for any issues.

Financing options are available from marine lenders. Insurance is a must for a boat of this value. Rates depend on factors like boating experience and intended use.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Baja 405 owners must budget for regular upkeep. Annual costs can reach $10,000 or more. This covers:

• Engine servicing
• Hull cleaning and waxing
• Electronics updates
• Interior cleaning

Owners should winterize the boat in colder climates. This protects systems from freeze damage. Many owners hire professionals for complex maintenance tasks.

Fuel costs are significant for this high-performance craft. The twin engines can use 50-100 gallons per hour at full throttle. Careful planning of trips helps manage fuel expenses.

Comparable Models

The Baja 405 faces competition from other high-performance boats in its size range. Several manufacturers offer models with similar features and capabilities.

Comparison with Competitive Models

The Baja 405 goes up against boats like the Formula 400 SS and Fountain 38 Lightning. These models share similar lengths around 40 feet and top speeds over 70 mph. The Baja 405 has twin Mercury engines, typically 525 HP each. This matches up well with the power plants in its rivals.

Interior layouts differ between brands. The Baja 405 offers a cabin with sleeping space for 4-6 people. Its competitors have comparable accommodations, though exact configurations vary. Cockpit designs also show some differences in seating arrangements and helm setups.

Price points for these boats tend to fall in the $300,000 to $500,000 range for new models. Used examples can be found for less, often starting around $100,000 depending on age and condition.

Customer Experiences and Reviews

Baja 405 boat owners and experts have shared mixed feedback about this performance vessel. Their insights cover aspects like handling, power, and overall satisfaction.

Owner Testimonials

Many Baja 405 owners praise the boat's power and speed. They enjoy its ability to handle rough waters smoothly. Some say it's mechanically sound and easy to maintain. A few owners mention the boat is professionally maintained, keeping it in top shape.

One owner stated, "My 405 still has its original paint after years of use. It's held up great!" Another shared, "We love taking it out for weekend trips. It's roomy and comfortable."

Not all experiences are perfect. A few owners noted minor issues with electronics. Some reported small dock rubs, which they felt were normal for a boat of this size.

Expert Opinions

Boating experts generally view the Baja 405 positively. They praise its:

• Powerful twin engines
• Smooth ride in choppy conditions
• Spacious cockpit layout

One reviewer wrote, "The 405 offers a true representation of what a performance boat should be." Another noted, "It's well-built and handles like a dream."

Some experts pointed out that fuel consumption can be high at top speeds. They suggest cruising at moderate speeds for better efficiency.

Market Reputation

The Baja 405 has a solid reputation in the performance boat market. It's known for:

• Reliability
• Strong resale value
• Good build quality

Buyers often seek out used 405s, seeing them as a good investment. The boat's popularity has stayed strong over the years.

Some potential buyers express concerns about maintenance costs. Others worry about finding qualified mechanics for repairs. These factors can impact buying decisions for some shoppers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baja 405 boats are popular performance cruisers with notable features. These frequently asked questions cover key details about specifications, pricing, speed, ownership, and manufacturing.

What are the common specifications of the Baja 405 model?

The Baja 405 is 40.5 feet long. It can sleep 4 people in its cabin. The boat has seating for 6 in the cockpit.

The 405 model typically comes with twin engines. Many use 496 HO (high output) engines.

How does the price range vary for pre-owned Baja 405 boats?

Used Baja 405 boats can range widely in price. A 2006 model with 400 hours was listed for $70,000.

Prices depend on the boat's age, condition, and upgrades. Newer models or those with low hours tend to cost more.

What is the maximum speed of a Baja 405 performance boat?

The Baja 405 can reach high speeds. With Magnum HO engines, it can hit a top speed of about 52 knots.

Cruising speed is lower, around 35 knots. Actual speeds may vary based on conditions and engine setup.

Is the Baja boat manufacturer still in operation?

Baja Boats faced challenges in the late 2000s. The brand changed ownership a few times.

As of 2024, new Baja boats are not being made. The company is no longer actively manufacturing boats.

What is the average cost of owning a Baja boat?

Owning a Baja boat involves more than just the purchase price. Fuel can be a big expense, as these boats use a lot of gas.

Maintenance, storage, and insurance also add to the costs. The exact amount varies based on usage and location.

Which city was historically known for the manufacturing of Baja boats?

Baja boats were made in Bucyrus, Ohio for many years. This small city was home to the Baja Marine factory.

The boats were built there until production stopped. Bucyrus was known for its boat-building history.