Senator RH650 Cabin Cruiser: The Sweet Spot of Versatility

The Senator RH650 Cabin Cruiser sits right in that sweet spot of the Senator range. This 6.5m hull balances fishability, comfort and practicality. It’s one of the most versatile platforms in the Senator lineup, and Andy’s setup is a great example of how well it can be tailored to real-world use.

A Brief Built Around Varied Use

Coming from a previous Senator, Andy already knew what he liked. This time around, the focus was on increasing versatility without stepping too far away from a size that’s easy to manage. Andy is a keen fisherman and his boating spans a wide range of locations, from the sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds, through to runs out around D’Urville Island, off Kaikōura and closer to home down in Canterbury. That mix of inshore and offshore fishing meant the boat needed to be capable in changing conditions, but still practical enough to tow and launch regularly. That’s where the 650 Cabin Cruiser platform really comes into its own.

“The RH650CC hits a balance that’s hard to beat. It’s large enough to handle open water with confidence, yet still compact enough to be easily towed between locations and launched solo if need be.”

Why the 650CC Works

The RH650CC hits a balance that’s hard to beat. It’s large enough to handle open water with confidence, yet still compact enough to be easily towed between locations and launched solo if need be.

With 215 litres of fuel onboard, it has the range to comfortably push further offshore when needed, while still being perfectly suited to day trips closer to home. Paired with the right outboard setup, it becomes an even more capable package. That extra bit of horsepower makes a real difference when you’re pushing into chop or carrying a bit of gear, holding speed more comfortably and reducing the effort on both the boat and crew. It’s not just about top-end performance, but how the boat handles in real conditions.

Within the two 6.5m options in the Senator range, the key difference at this size comes down to layout. The RH650 offers an open cabin, while the RH650 Cabin Cruiser introduces a fully enclosed cabin with a bulkhead and doors. On the Cabin Cruiser, the cabin is also extended, giving you more usable internal space. The ability to close those doors on early morning missions or when the weather turns is a feature that makes a big difference, cutting out the cold and the fatigue so you can focus on the adventure.

The RH650 offers an open cabin, while the RH650 Cabin Cruiser introduces a fully enclosed cabin with bulkhead and doors.

Fishing Capability

The 650 Cabin Cruiser a highly capable fishing platform. The cockpit is laid out to maximise usable space, making it comfortable to fish two at the gunwales without feeling crowded.

The practical bait station, live bait tank and plenty of rod storage, all working together in a layout that suits both inshore sessions and wider missions. Details like the flush toe hold along the gunnels give you added stability when you're on a fish 

Power to Match 

The RH650 typically sits in the 200–250hp range, depending on how it’s being used. Andy’s choice of Yamaha 225hp V6 setup reflects that middle ground - enough power to confidently handle offshore conditions, while still maintaining good efficiency for longer runs between locations. It’s a combination that suits the boat’s all-round nature.

Helm and Electronics

At the helm, the layout is clean and functional:

• Garmin GPSMAP 8416xsv

• Garmin Fantom Radome

• TM265LH 1kw transducer

• Navionics Vision + chart card

• Yamaha digital remote & gauge

• Senator switch panel

• VHF

• USB Socket

• Electric reel sockets

• Zipwake Trim Tabs

• Fridge under the seatbox

In The Cabin

The cabin is set up to be genuinely usable. A toilet on board adds practicality for longer days, while the folding bunk extensions allow the V-berth to convert into a queen-size bed, giving the possibility of overnighters (or a power nap after an early start). 

Storage has been thought through as well, with space under the forward bunks providing room for gear and supplies, while a full-length port-side pocket keeps smaller items organised and within easy reach. The helm box seat also provides excellent storage.

Folding bunk extensions allow the V-berth to convert into a bed, while smart storage throughout the cabin provides practicality

In The Cockpit

The cockpit is set up with fishing front and centre. As factory standard, generous gunwale storage helps keep the deck clear and gear close at hand, while the practical bait board setup and live bait tank are positioned without dominating valuable deck space. It’s a smart layout that gives you the functionality you need for serious fishing. At the stern, the extended duckboard and cage setup create a solid, functional fishing and diving platform.

Punching Above Its Weight

The RH650 Cabin Cruiser is one of those boats that just makes sense the more time you spend around it. It sits in that really usable space where you’re not compromising on capability. In Andy’s case, it’s a setup that matches exactly how he likes to spend time on the water. It’s a boat that delivers comfort when you want it, space where you need it and performance when conditions demand it. The Senator RH650 Cabin Cruiser is a model we’re big fans of - a balanced and practical all-rounder.