Ranger Tugs 21 - Ranger Tugs 21 EC

Keep the Change is a loaded with great equipment including a trailer.  These exceptionally versatile and seaworthy little tugs are a favourite of folks worldwide. Keep the Change is fitted with electric downrigger plugs and mounts, a Yamaha 9.9 High Thrust trolling motor and has had her bottom Epoxy coated. You won't find a cleaner example and she's here at our sales dock, ready for you to view.

Tugs have always enjoyed a bit of a cult following, with enthusiasts appreciating the traditional cruising style and fuel economy the boats offer. With a refined hull design and a wealth of interior improvements, the Ranger Tugs R-21EC is sure to please even the most discerning of tug devotees.

Measuring 21 feet overall, this diminutive tug is easily trailerable and packs in all the necessities for cruising further and longer. The cockpit provides plenty of seating with a full-beam aft bench and a removable cushion in place on top of the motorbox in the centre of the floor.

There is great use of space, with storage compartments hidden under the aft bench and even under the cup holders, which flip up to reveal a spot for tucking away small items. Potential owners may also want to add in the optional canvas top that will offer some protection from sun or rain. And when the sun is co-operating the swim step with boarding ladder makes getting in and out of the water a snap.

In the small yet comfortable cabin, the tug efficiency continues on the R-21EC. When not in use, the sink and single-burner stove in the portside galley are covered by the removable companion seat. There’s also a bar-sized 12-volt fridge to starboard and several small cupboards for necessities.

The captain can choose to stand at the traditional Mahogany wheel or flip up the helm seat for a comfortable perch from which to view the surroundings through the 360 degrees of windows. Although the speedometer is a little awkwardly placed below the right elbow, it’s not a big deal as you won’t be looking there too often with a tug.

Forward is a nice-sized V-berth, big enough for two, with a pair of portholes and an overhead hatch providing good ventilation. Removing a small cushion at the centre reveals the optional marine head with holding tank, macerator and pumpout.

Out on the water, cruising was predictably slow and steady. The R-21EC turned extremely tightly, pretty much in its own length, and took rollers across the beam without hesitation. Top speed was a cool and efficient 9.8 mph.

Offering versatility and durability with a design that will never go out of style, the appeal of the Ranger Tugs R-21EC is sure to continue amongst longtime tug fans - and will likely bring more into the fold.

TEST BOAT ENGINE
Yanmar 30-hp 3-cylinder diesel engine with FWC
ACCELERATION (mph/sec)
N/A
TOP SPEED (rpm/mph)
3600 / 9.8
CRUISING SPEED (rpm/mph)
2000 / 5.9 ; 2200 / 6.3 ; 2400 / 6.7 ; 2600 / 7.1

By Amanda Commission of Boattest.ca

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