By: Scott Way
Formula 500 SSC - In October, we interviewed Scott Smith at Formula who hinted that something "big" was coming. In the bustle of our conversation, we took that to mean the gravity of a pending announcement, not necessarily the size of a boat. His words were, "I can’t go into details, but I can tell you we’ve got a big product coming out this year that will be memorable. It’s not specifically tied to the 65th anniversary, but that’s all I can say for now."
We were wrong, but happily so. Today Formula unveiled their largest model ever-- the all-new 2021 500 Super Sport Crossover. In the company's press release, the 500 SSC reads as exactly what one would expect from a flagship Formula boat: "The 50-foot SSC pushes our expression of the Crossover Bowrider concept to its ultimate, and we truly feel it will have no rival in its class, with a full-width, single level cockpit with enclosed coupe-top forward cockpit, full bow with our feature portside walk-thru and an expansive aft cockpit with bar, two lounges and immense swim platform—oh, and the fully-appointed cabin with large galley, complete head, lounge and stateroom with sofa—the 500 Super Sport Crossover is made to impress. Outboard power will propel the twin-step FAS3Tech hull, and we are confident it will live up to its Formula performance heritage."
With all that good news packed into a few sentences, we reached out to Scott to get the lowdown on the new flagship model. It should come as no surprise that Formula is continuing to take bold steps, especially when backed by a well-earned reputation for innovation. According to Scott, “(e)veryone here at Formula is excited to let the world know what we’ve been planning, designing and developing for the past couple of years or so: our all new 500 Super Sport Crossover! We are all very proud to have a new flagship for our brand, especially with the 500 bringing all the elements of our very successful Crossover line together in our largest model to date. There is no other 50-footer on the market quite like it, with a complete, one-level, bow-to-stern deck with a full cabin, including stand-up head, galley, and separate aft cabin with lounge. We are sure your readers will be impressed once they see the layout and read the release, and they can learn more at formulaboats.com!”
In recent years, the SSC lineup has served as a tidal shift for Formula compared to their previous stylings, but the performance-driven hybrids with stately amenities have become a boon for the legendary business. There has also been a gradual shift towards bigger sizes, too, with recent additions including the 380, 400 and 430 SSC, now also available with outboard power. It would seem obvious that the next step would be to go even larger, and while we missed the hint, Formula has crafted an impressively large vessel.
Let's take a closer look at the 500 SSC.
Formula's largest boat is the vision of designer John Adams and carries a 50' length to the transom and a 54'4'' LOA. She boasts a 14'6'' beam, and to the delight of veteran Formula enthusiasts everywhere, is moulded with a 19° deep-V hull with FAS3 TECH® multi-step design and molded structural grid. As one should expect, there's no shortage of power either. The 500 SSC comes standard with quintuple Mercury 400 Verados or optional quintuple Mercury Racing 400R's or 450 R's, creating total available horsepower between 2000 and 2250 hp.
The 500 SSC also brings clever engineering to the layout, most notably the SmartZone™ concept that seamlessly intertwines 5 distinct regions of the boat -- the helm, hardtop salon, bow, open aft lounge, and swim platform. All told, the concept creates over 40 linear feet of uninterrupted cockpit space. As an enclosed coupe, the interior carries triple command seating, an L-shaped midships dining lounge, a U-shaped galley, an entertainment bar, and dual aft lounge areas. The swim platform is itself its own entertainment area with 71 square feet of floorspace aided by side extensions. The platform also offers waterproof stereo control and 4 JL Audio speakers with a 200 watt subwoofer.
Below is the main level floorplan with galley and lounge options:
The helm is an obvious magnet for any mariner. Dual Raymarine Axiom XL 24" widescreem color chartplotters are front and center, as well as standard 48" Raymarine open-array rader, a FLIR M332 thermal camera, and Mercury® DTS with SmartCraft VesselViewTM with intuitive waterproof switches. To further add to the captaincy experience, there is a dash-mounted Rockford Fosgate® AM/FM stereo system with Bluetooth® and USB port that delivers music through 16 JL
Audio® multi-color LED lighted chrome-finished speakers. All told, the speaker system brings 800 watts of amplification complimented by four LED-lit 200W subwoofers placed throughout the boat. There is also a stereo remote control, air conditioning control, and LaunchPort inductive charging system for the Formula-provided iPad. The tablet itself supplies digital switching controls for all lighting and air conditioning, as well as chartplotter and engine information.
Other perks at midships include a full-width motorized glass sunroof with a fixed aft moonroof, and a mid-salon 18,000 BTU air conditioner added to the helm. The main salon also hosts a 32” LED/LCD Smart HDTV with soundbar, Blu-ray™ player and multi-color LED accent lighting throughout. The side galley conceals a power lift 65" TV with Bose soundbar. The U-shaped kitchen packs a stainless steel Vitrifigo pullout fridge, two-burner range, convection microwave, and a standard 240V electric grill. The galley is complimented by an Ultrealeather L-shaped raised salon nook to port with a fold-out Corian® dining table and two tip-out barstools, a Vitrifrigo ice maker, a lockable beverage center with three-tier storage and an adjustable bottle keeper, assorted stemware and glassware, and a blender. There is also an optional 26-bottle dual-zone wine cooler.
Moving forward, guests can access the bow lounge through Formula's unique slide-open windshield and glass wind door with Corian frame. Up front they'll find a forward-facing triple-wide lounge that transitions to full-length starboard-side seating by sweeping across the bow until it arcs to port. Two electrically actuated tables with filler cushions create dining and sunning options, and two pop-up LED accent lights can extend social gatherings into the evening hours. The portside bow also carries a waterproof stereo control for 4 JL Audio speakers with a subwoofer and accent lighting.
Below deck, guests will be comfortable with a fully molded cabin liner with woodgrain-finish flooring and 6’7” of headroom. A fully appointed lower kitchen with dining lounge includes an overhead microwave, large pullout Isotherm stainless steel refrigerator, a stainless steel sink with Elka® swivel spout and removable cover, and a Keurig® coffee maker. The lounge is also a convertible dinette/sleeping berth, with guests having access to wireless phone chargers, pop-up 120V outlets, a dual USB charging port, stereo volume control, an iPad LaunchPort inductive charging system, and a 32” LED/LCD Smart HDTV with soundbar and Blu-ray player. The aft stateroom offers a queen-size bed and lounge divan, a private stand-up head compartment, and premium AV entertainment.
Below is the full below deck floorplan with cabin layouts:
Availability on the new 500 SSC is still pending, but we will publish updates as they become available. For Decatur, Indiana's Formula it will undoubtedly be a busy year, as not only is 2021 the company 65th anniversary but the recent addition of the 500 SSC will see one of boating's most legendary companies continue to grow in size.
For a more comprehensive breakdown you can read the full release below:
DECATUR, IN—The Crossover Bowrider revolution, pioneered and perfected by the team at Formula, continues to push perceived boundaries with the debut of their newest flagship: the 500 Super Sport Crossover! Adding to the Crossover
brand with open bow and cabin elements that spring from their unparalleled Crossover Bowrider, then incorporating the nimble versatility of a flush cockpit center console, this unprecedented Formula is the logical product of the Crossover legacy, with entertaining space and amenities unheard of in its class. Years in design and execution, this incredible fusion of art, performance, amenities and layout pushes the Crossover concept to its ultimate expression. At 53’ 4” length
overall, 50’ LOA to transom, and a 14’ 6” beam, the 500 attains Formula SSC flagship status as it is introduced in February 2021. The 500 is Formula Exclusive Designer John Adams’ latest iteration of offshore boating enthusiast desires, born to impress. With over 40 linear feet of cockpit space flowing uninterrupted on one continuous level, the 500 expands the
SmartZoneTM concept, fully optimizing the space with a signature side console helm, creating separate areas that foster a variety of activities and boating preferences while encouraging authentic connections among your guests. Which Zone suits you? Helm, hardtop salon, bow, open aft lounges, swim platform?
Virtually every boater’s preference is satisfied in the 500 SSC cockpit, from up- front exhilaration in the expansive bow to the enclosed coupe with triple command seating, to the L-shaped midship dining lounge, U-shaped galley, entertainment
bar and dual lounge areas aft. The 500 SSC is a true evolution and culmination of
the Formula SmartZone concept. Add to that cabin accommodations – unconstrained by deck walkways or walkarounds – which offer surprising amenities previously encountered only in closed bow vessels, including a convertible dinette/sleeping berth, aft stateroom with queen-size bed and lounge divan, private stand-up head compartment, full galley and premium AV entertainment. Let your imagination soar as your crew escapes to the freedom of open water without the confines of a traditional, narrowly defined vessel. The side console helm maximizes Formula’s offshore heritage with triple command seating that is chiseled for support, yet expertly formed for ultimate comfort. Each seat bottom adjusts for options to sit, stand or rest on the upright seat, affording your team confident command for varying seas and activities. The sturdy
composite dash features dual Raymarine Axiom XL 24 widescreen color chartplotters with standard 48” Raymarine open-array radar and FLIR M332 thermal camera, Mercury® DTS with SmartCraft VesselViewTM and intuitive waterproof switches logically arrayed in Liquid Black panels with bold, metallic accents. The 500 SSC also features impressive digital switching with a helm-mounted, dedicated Raymarine Axiom+ 12” display and wireless iPadTM control with subscription-ready cellular remote control, putting mobile command at your fingertips. Quintuple Mercury 400 Verado Outboard motors, with upgrade to Quint Mercury Racing 400R’s or 450R’s, respond instantly to your control with electronic shift and throttle, Mercury® Joystick Piloting and choice of impressive leather-wrapped, polished stainless tilt steering wheel. Powered adjustable-height footrests further customize the fit, while the standard 30,000 BTU reverse cycle cockpit air conditioner with strategically placed vents incorporated into the helm and seat backs takes this command to an entirely new level. The dash-mounted Rockford Fosgate® AM/FM stereo system with Bluetooth® and USB port delivers music through 16 JL
Audio® multi-color LED lighted chrome-finished speakers in the cockpit with 800W amplification and four lighted 200W subwoofers throughout. The exacting proportions at the dash are accented by an upholstered eyebrow, introducing an upscale sophistication to the helm console zone. A lockable dash storage compartment and padded mobile device station safeguard your personal electronics and valuables as you enjoy the day. Heading toward open horizons or hugging the coast, the ride is fast-paced, yet solid and secure as you pamper your guests with Formula performance and luxury. Sumptuously contoured cockpit seating with crisp, precision stitching speaks volumes in styling expertise. The 500’s SmartZone design optimizes every square inch of your living space, the key to uninterrupted entertainment possibilities in the cockpit. Seven distinct seating areas bow to aft offer ever-changing perspectives for perpetual sharing and discovery.
The spacious salon is fully enclosed with the beautifully sculpted fiberglass hardtop. The full-width motorized glass sunroof with fixed moonroof aft, fully accented with dramatic multi-color LED lighting, opens to the sky, creating priceless encounters under the stars. While closed, a mid-salon 18,000 BTU air conditioner added to the helm 30,000 BTU unit keeps your guests cool in total 48,000 BTU comfort. Enjoy the panoramic view at the Ultraleather L-shaped raised salon nook to port with fold-out Corian® dining table and two tip-out barstools. Flanked by a Vitrifrigo ice maker below and lockable beverage center aft featuring three-tier storage with adjustable bottle keeper and assorted tempered stemware and glassware plus blender or optional 26-bottle dual-zone wine cooler, the best entertaining and conversation begin here. The
concealed power lift 65” television with Bose soundbar raises from the starboard side galley counter, an easy view for all. The full-width motorized glass bulkhead system allows you to choose your degree of salon zone separation from partial to full closure. With the sliding glass door panels to port and bar-integrated power down window to starboard, you can choose the reach of entertainment as you engage between the salon and aft cockpit. Venturing aft, the portside U-shaped lounge with stationary Corian table features four stainless cupholders and center pop-up LED accent light, or choose the powered, adjustable-height cockpit table, which lowers for sunning with a filler cushion or powers into the floor for open cockpit options.
To starboard, the L-shaped lounge with 54-gallon cooler below, complete with refrigerator/freezer coils, offers a quiet respite or extended bar entertainment possibilities. When sun protection is preferred, the standard SureShade extends aft from the coupe top at the touch of a button. Indeed, the entire aft cockpit centers on versatility, yet remains ready to connect – comfortable conversations or private retreats are equally valued. Whether it’s gathering for al fresco lunch, basking in the sun or enjoying a soothing sunset cruise, the 500 is ready for the next on-water activity you and your guests may choose. Let your culinary passions delight your guests at the chef-inspired U-shaped kitchen, which
features an expansive bi-level Corian countertop in a layout created for efficiency and enjoyment. The focus is entertainment-ready equipment, all within easy reach. Creations are effortless with the high-capacity dual-drawer stainless Vitrifigo pullout fridge, two-burner range and convection microwave. Plentiful storage plus two counter levels allow ease for onboard or catered presentations. Directly aft, the stainless sink with cover and design-inspired faucet centers the station flanked by a full bank of hardwood dovetailed drawers, perceptively designed to protect your cooking tools from the elements, keeping them in your favored intuitive location. A dedicated trash container and paper towel holder ensure a shipshape space. The entertainment bar with elevated Corian countertop and two upholstered barstools draws in the
fun while at anchor, adrift or at the dock. The standard 240V electric grill is perfectly positioned in the aft cockpit, offering a separate zone for the creative outdoor chef. When you prefer a closer connection with your on-water experience, head aft through the sliding glass transom door to the spacious, rear-facing portside lounge which converts easily into a
large two-position sun lounge. A starboard utility locker keeps four fenders safely stowed, yet conveniently at the ready. Heading to the reef for an afternoon adventure? The 500’s SmartZone design means easy water access off the roomy, extended swim platform with dual fold-down side entrance ladders. There is no need for imposing hullside entries that limit your seating capabilities or force your crew to move aside. Quite the opposite, the 500 swim platform with side extensions is a zone in itself, with 71 square feet of room, so swimmers can rinse off, towel and transition effortlessly to the cockpit living space without thought or inconvenience to anyone aboard. The platform’s waterproof stereo control with four powerful JL Audio speakers and 200 watt subwoofer extend your entertainment capabilities aft. The upholstered sport
station with six stainless drink holders, available SEABOB F5S and SUP racks make the 500 the central spot at the cove. When you prefer an open vista, the 500 offers a seamless transition forward with the flush cockpit sole leading all the way to the bow through Formula’s unique, slide-open windshield and glass wind door with Corian frame. Wraparound seating offers multiple views and keeps your guests engaged. The forward-facing triple-wide lounge transitions to full-length
starboard-side seating that sweeps widely across the forward bow and even arcs to port, maximizing your space and seating choices. Twin fold-up armrests give sure support at the forward-facing lounge. Two electrically actuated tables with filler cushions increase your dining and sunning possibilities, while two pop-up LED accent lights forward extend gatherings well into the evening. A waterproof stereo control at the portside bow plus four speakers and a subwoofer give mode and volume selection to match the mood up front. When shade is preferred, the bow sun shade with stainless supports is a welcome standard feature.
Designated storage for the sun shade, seating covers and filler cushions is a Formula hallmark. The 500 SSC brings choice to a new level. 26 drink holders throughout the bow and cockpit offer plenty of places for your guests to enjoy refreshments throughout the day. And, as you head out on each new journey, easy-access storage offers dedicated placement for your
boating gear and personal belongings. From underseat storage throughout to roomy gear lockers and points in between, 11 different molded fiberglass tubs and lockers, along with tough, gelcoat-finished equipment holds, make your experience safe, seamless and easy. Dual USB charging ports are conveniently located throughout, and at the end of the day, multi-color LED accent lighting in every zone adds a heightened awareness while soothing the soul. Underwater LED multicolor lights are standard to add distinctive style and appeal. The 'Sound-to-Light' with Wi-Fi control features full spectrum color choices that seamlessly sync to your music, creating a multi-sensory underwater light show. The 500 cabin provides a completely residential experience through the creative, hull-to-hull, wall-to-wall utilization of space only Formula’s unique Crossover layout affords. Enter with ease through the sliding door at the helm. Solid Corian steps lead down to a fully molded cabin liner with woodgrain-finish flooring and 6’ 7” headroom. The environment is yours to control, with spacious, opening windows, motorized blind system, tinted skylight and forward window with electronic privacy smart glass, 16,000 BTU air conditioning with UV purifier and multi-color LED accent lighting. A fully appointed lower kitchen, dining lounge, enclosed head and well- appointed aft stateroom with a full sofa lounge offer the upscale accommodations of a closed bow cruiser.
The U-shaped Ultraleather lounge forward is deep and spacious, accommodating friends for dinner or light-hearted entertainment at the Corian table that hinges up to reveal drink holders and lowers for sleeping at the flip of a switch. Berth legroom is easily revealed by raising the forward backrest. Storage is abundant at the backrests and under the lounge, and a dual USB charging port is conveniently located nearby.
The portside lower kitchen is beautifully presented in your choice of design-inspired open grain or high-gloss woodgrain finishes, rich Corian countertop, multi-colored LED lighted Corian wall accent and brushed metallic architectural features. Culinary conveniences include a spacious stainless sink with premium Elka® swivel spout and removable cover, overhead microwave, large pullout Isotherm stainless steel refrigerator, Keurig® coffee maker and concealed trash
container. A full bank of hardwood dovetailed drawers and dedicated wine storage, spacious concealed cupboard space overhead plus a unique hideaway counter storage compartment keep it all in place. A beautifully presented multi-color LED lighted cabinet showcase, complete with tempered stemware and tumblers, makes entertaining an absolute delight. Also to port is the electronics pylon with Rockford Fosgate stereo remote control, air conditioning control and a LaunchPort inductive charging system for the Formula-provided iPad. Digital switching controls all lighting and air conditioning as well as relays chartplotter and engine information. A separate app puts the stereo control in your hands with four cabin speakers that bring pure audio clarity while dramatic lighting acts as a powerful design element throughout. The 32” LED/LCD Smart
HDTV with soundbar, Blu-rayTM player and multi-color LED accent lighting is perfectly positioned to entertain your guests. To starboard, the seven-position wine cooler brings a toast to the end of the day. Storage is cleverly optimized at the stairway pylon, including a dedicated space for the Dyson V11 vacuum with charging station. A roomy cedar-lined hanging locker at the entryway keeps your guests’ belongings convenient and secure. The spacious head with separate shower is a pampering oasis, blending calming lines and lighting with care-inspired features, including a vanity with Corian countertop, custom-molded vessel sink with wall-mounted faucet, high-gloss woodgrain-finish lower cabinet and large mirrored upper cabinet, and Vacuflush® head unit. The separate shower brings relaxation with both rain and wand dual shower heads, Corian seat, intuitive toiletry keeper, four swimsuit/towel hooks with plush woven towels and tempered glass shower door.
The aft cabin stateroom is a private retreat featuring a permanent queen-size bed with Aerus memory foam mattress, so there is no need to fix up a lounge for primary sleeping. The bed offers a quiet respite with an upholstered headboard with individual reading lights, quilted coverlet and pillow shams, plush throw and bed linens, plus deep side storage with shelf,
wireless phone charger and dual USB charging port. The Ultraleather stateroom sofa is a welcoming space to reflect and reset. Flanked by dual side consoles that pair secure storage with technology answers, it is the perfect base for so many activities, from focusing efforts remotely to sharing satisfaction over a glass of wine. Two additional wireless phone chargers, pop-up 120V outlets, a dual USB charging port, stereo volume control, iPad LaunchPort inductive charging system and 32” LED/LCD Smart HDTV with soundbar and Blu-ray player complete the stateroom/office suite amenities. The 500 SSC 19° deep-V hull with FAS3 TECH® multi-step design and molded structural grid delivers the swift, stable Formula performance that is respected worldwide. Your horizons are limitless in your 500 SSC! Go offshore without compromise, in a vessel that so smartly balances purpose with pleasure, where every feature is on target for your needs. This is the player to
define the 50-foot Crossover class – the Formula 500 Super Sport Crossover.
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