Scout 530 LXF Review (2023 Edition)

Scout has a continuing commitment to advanced manufacturing techniques and that has informed every inch of this boat. The build employs cutting-edge epoxy infusion and carbon epoxy construction processes in the hull, deck, hardtop, and flybridge, resulting in a lighter and stronger boat. 

The deck extends to a generous 5.3m (17.5ft) beam giving lots of room for relaxation and entertainment, thanks to the use of port and starboard aft balconies. The cockpit is a versatile space, equipped with seating that can accommodate seven and a wet bar that is part fish prep station and part entertaining space. Fishing fans should put the Scout 530 LXF on their radar, with features like aft fish boxes, dual transom baitwells with aerators, and rod storage. The floors are synthetic teak as standard (you can upgrade to real teak) and are easy to clean. There's also a Seakeeper 6 installed to limit roll when fishing in a swell.

The lower deck, although not the main focus of this type of boat, still offers comfort with TV setups and a fully equipped galley with a microwave, hob, and fridges. Sleeping arrangements include a queen stateroom and additional berths for guests.

The Scout 530 LXF offers a suite of customisation options. Hull colours come in two different shades of blue, grey, or black - even the outboard engines can be painted black. But it can be painted any colour you like. Inside, there are four different complimentary wood combinations of flooring and cabinets, named Grigio Nero, Liscia Bianca, Modella (as standard), and Paris Marrone.

The lower deck of this yacht takes a back seat really, as the primary focus is on performance and getting you to the fishing grounds with ease and speed. However, if you do need to stay overnight, there’s enough room for four adults to do so in relative comfort.

The forward cabin is probably considered the owner's space, with a low double bed. While it won't win awards for size, it’s perfectly adequate for a night on board. There are no hull windows in here - instead, Scout has installed backlit 'false windows' that offer a nice effect. A pocket door provides privacy and preserves space. The bathroom setup is split, with the shower on one side and the toilet on the other, making the most of the available space.

Another cabin, again a bit small, is under the cockpit for any extra guests or perhaps just used for storage. The headroom is very low.

There is a dinette and a galley with a dark wood finish and a backlit window effect. The small galley has a cooktop, microwave, and additional cooling space. There's even a TV down here - it's a comfy spot to take shelter from the weather.

The helm station offers a chunky wheel, and a large MFD on an uncluttered dash - there's also an overhead screen, providing loads of data at a glance. The row of buttons above your eye line makes accessing frequently-used functions practical, so you shouldn't need to delve into complex menus on digital screens over and over.

Fully enclosed, the helm is a well-protected space, making the fast cruising experience with those mighty Mercury 600hp V12s incredibly comfortable despite the speeds the boat is capable of pulling. 

The helm area also has twin navigator seats with their very own (massive) screen, so you can enjoy just as much vital information as the skipper.

Scout has encased the cabling for the outboards in stainless steel tubes, which keeps the aft area tidy, and easy to move from side to side. The boarding gates are beautifully done, and the pop-up cushions are a nice touch, so you can comfortably perch while fishing off the corners. 

The bench flips away to provide more deck space, and then there is Scout's patented rocket launcher system, first used on the Scout 420 LXF.  The rod holders are up in the coamings of the centre console, just below the sunshade. Fix in your rod; push the button, and the rod holders fold up and out of the way. Push the button for the sunshade and the rod holders will automatically fold down, tucking under the sunshade as it extends out. It's a clever system, which keeps the fishing kit neatly stashed away when not in use but easy to access when needed.

The drop-down balconies on both port and starboard sides push the beam out even further when at anchor and work just as well for swimming off and prepping for watersports as they do for expanding the deck space for fishing purposes. 

Adding a ladder to this area is a smart move, making it easy to clamber in and out of the water away from where the outboard engines are located. Over at the wet bar, you'll find a grill, fridge, and sink, with steps neatly running through the middle. We'll come to those later... 

Side Decks & Foredeck

The side deck and foredeck on this yacht prove to be safe and comfortable to move around on. The high bulwarks are cushioned for added safety, meaning that moving around the boat or battling a big catch won't have you hitting hard surfaces. 

A continuous railing guides the way to the foredeck, which is another great-looking and versatile living area. This area has storage on both sides, handy for stashing gear and personal items along with built-in speakers and pop-up lights.

The raised three-seater is an absolute delight, with backrests and armrests to hold you firmly in place. It’s worth having those little storage bins integrated into the seating, perfect for safely plonking your phone or other bits.

Forward, there are adjustable twin tables surrounded by U-shaped seating. This area can be used as a dining set-up or a casual coffee spot, as the tables can be lowered or raised to suit the moment. 

Flybridge

The flybridge on this yacht is an option but in a class where flybridges are so rare, this one provides a unique vantage point. It's great for both high-speed cruising and slow-speed manoeuvring thanks to the joystick control. The oversight from here is brilliant, especially for those keen on fishing, as it offers a commanding view of the cockpit and engines. You can keep an eye on everything and still have a chat with those below; there are even more rod holders up here too.

Seating is plentiful, with chaise lounges inviting you to relax and soak up the sun when the yacht is at rest. They also serve as a comfy spot during leisurely cruises, provided speeds remain modest. A clever design touch is the glass laid into the floor, ensuring the helm position below is bathed in natural light. It's seriously cool.

How you assess this boat's value for money will depend heavily on your perspective. If you compare it to a more traditional 55ft sportscruiser, for example, you will spot the compromises in its accommodation and its thirst compared to something with a more conventional twin diesel setup. However, if you're after an extraordinary fishing platform with searing performance and the ability to cruise where most sportscruisers top out, you'll see it as a price worth paying. 

That seems a rather obvious way to frame things, but this is a niche product. For the right customer, who treasures fast cruising ability and deck space over long stints sleeping on board, it ticks a lot of boxes, and few boats of this type deliver lifestyle, performance, and fishing so well.