cruiser yachts vs sea ray

• Search forums

Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.

Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.

• Ask the Captain

Cruiser Yachts vs Sea Ray (cruisers only)

• Thread starter MrsRobinson
• Start date Sep 4, 2007

MrsRobinson

Active member.

• Sep 4, 2007

We currently own a Sea Ray 330. We like the boat a lot. We plan to move to a 40 - 50 foot cruiser (diesel only) within the next 12 months. We always said we would buy another Sea Ray, but... The Cruiser Yacht line has caught out eye, especially the interiors. They appear to be laid out better than the Sea Rays. We plan to look at a 2000 Cruisers 4270 Express this weekend. We have been on the Sea Ray 400 and 410 and like both a lot. Please reply with your experience with the Cruiser Yacht line, particularly the 2000 Cruisers 4270 Express. If you too made the comparison to the Sea Ray cruisers and ended up in a Cruisers yacht, why? Thanks  

Greg, A more apples-to-apples comparison would be a 4270 against a 450DA. The 4270 is quite a bit larger than a 400-410DA. The model years don't line up as well as they do with the 4270 and 410DA though... We have a 4270 on one side of us, the newer version, the 440 is on the other side. They're each about the same length, but the 440 is taller. I've driven both of them. They're both Volvo powered with electronic controls. The owner of the 4270 complains regularly about the expense of maintenance – a common theme among Volvo owners. I prefer the galley ans salon of the SeaRay's, and the mid-cabin of the Cruisers. The cockpits have different layouts. The Cruisers has more space to use as a wet-bar, but both of my neighbors are frustrated with the ice-maker/fridge combo. Apparently they're a poor execution of a good idea... I was actually going to start a thread about electronic controls. I like “tech”, but those light-action, small levered controls just don't seem to add anything to the experience. The 4270 owner has had trouble with his. I don't like the feel of them and until you can get used to it, the delay they cause will offset the advantage of the diesel torque in close-quarters. The sync is nice though. The 4270 has a pronounced stern-heavy attitude. Even with tabs and generous throttle, there was more delay and a LOT more bow-to-the-sky than I'm accustomed to. To be fair, I'm accustomed to almost none, so I'm not saying it's a slug. The port engine also left a cloud of black smoke when accelerating, so there may have been other factors at work. Cruisers decided that laying the eisen at about a 15 degree angle above the windshield was a good idea, so seeing through that junk is a challenge. If I had that boat, I'd redesign the fwd bimini to bring it to a more vertical angle. You'll notice a different strategy on deck. Cruisers pushes the whole boat almost to the gunwale and has a walk-through windshield, while the SeaRays have fixed glass but wide side-decks. Most people with walk-throughs like them. I guess I'm tradtional – I like side decks. I can say that when docking on a low floating dock, advantage: SeaRay.  

Well-known member

generally SR have poity bows compared to cruisers. a long narrow bow adds to marketing lenght but it is interior volume that you use.  

SLW and pdecat, great feedback. We too like the gunnels on the Sea Ray. The photos of the galley on the 4270 look crampy, not open, more of a box. Your comments on electronic controls is the first I have heard of this so it's new to me. The one in our area has the 3126 cats, not Volvos. Glad to hears it's a larger boat (then the 400410) though as we are considering a Sea Ray 450 or 460 too. Our 330 is stern heavy too and I lose visibility for 2-3 seconds when getting up on plane. But in 4-5 seconds she is up so it's not a big deal. Quality wise, does the Cruisers "feel" any lessor than a Sea Ray (cushions, trim, plastics, vinyls, etc..)?  

Being stern heavy and throwing a big wake is a function of engine location and prop tunnels, not brand. Designers like V drives for interior reasons but they are the cause of what you report so as you consider the next boat it may be a consideration. I think straight drives put the engines and their weight forward which improves handling IMO.  

Being stern heavy is a function of a boat being heavy in the stern! I don't think anyone suggested that it was a function of a brand...? A 330DA is stern-heavy because the v-drives put the engines in the close to the stern and 454's are heavy in relation to the boats weight and length. A 400DA with the same engines in the same configuration, with prop pockets, exhibits a small fraction of the "stern heavy" behavior. Quality wise, the materials between the brands are very, very similar, with the exception eisen. For some reason, Cruisers uses stuff that looks like saran-wrap - even when new. Cruisers is also more likely to use real-wood trim, and they do a nice job with it.  

To all...we sell alot of boats (Cruisers and Carvers) with the Volvo electronic controls. I LOVE them...once you get used to the light touch and slight delay, they are wonderful...recommmended even. And, SLW, RBM has problems with EVERYTHING he buys!!! LOL  

We spent a full year looking for our first 'big' boat. We were looking in the 33-36 foot range. We looked at the Cruisers, Sea Ray, Larson, Regal, Maxum, and everyone else that put an express cruiser in that range. Being an engineer, I set about making a list of requirements. I'll spare everyone our particular list, but it's an important step to prioritizing what's important (based on your expected use). What we determined was that the Cruisers met our overall needs the best. The Sea Ray felt very narrow down below, where we wanted a bit more room. The wide gunwales on the SR didn't make up for the lost space below, and the Cruisers has a FANTASTIC walk through to the foredeck. For us, the SR was too 'cockpit heavy, in that the cockpit was huge (a plus), but left very cramped quarters below (major minus). With our family of 4 (plus friends for the kids), we needed better balance above and below. The Cruisers cockpit is plenty roomy, and the berths below are well proportioned. The full, separate, stand-up shower in a 34 footer really put the Cruisers over the top for us. We also went with the 8.1 V drives, because of the ease of handling in tight quarters, and the prop tunnels that allows us to get into very shallow waters comfortably. I don't get the feel of it being stern heavy at all. I guess it's just the way the mfg balances out the load. One big requirement was the ability to drive while sitting down. I never lose sight of the horizon when transitioning to plane, and have GREAT visibility when on plane. The Admiral is comfortable driving and slipping as well. As for their fit and finish... I haven't found any manufacturer that's better. They use great materials, and it's built with great care. They even pre wire for things that aren't chosen as options (like additional speakers - something I just found out) Not sure if this helps at all... we could've bought anything we wanted, and went with the Cruisers.  

Greg, Do not rule out the best of both worlds. The SR 440 express bridge is on my short list for the next one. Several on YachtWorld in diesel and at a reasonable price. All that I have looked at require interior updating. Small expense in the big scheme of things. My 0.02.  

In general terms, I like the fit and finish on Cruisers generally better than on Sea Rays. It just feels more authentic and less glitzy. Not to mention that I've heard so many Sea Ray horror stories, while I hear overwhelmingly great feedback from Cruisers owners in general regarding their boats, their dealers and the manufacturer's support after sale... Not to mention that Sea Ray has had some big boo boos out there... For example, evidently Cruisers could core the hulls the right way even when using balsa, while Sea Ray could not. That leads me to believe more in Cruisers' means and methods. Not to mention that it's just not as massed produced as a Sea Ray. I tend to prefer boat builders that do more by hand, and less by automation. So, personally, I'd lean towards the Cruisers.  

• Sep 5, 2007

quote: Originally posted by syork The full, separate, stand-up shower in a 34 footer really put the Cruisers over the top for us. Click to expand...

Joe...it would be a 3470/340 Express depending on year. 2005 was the model designation change at Cruisers, so anything before that is a 3470  

Great feedback, thanks. What I am hearing is for the money, compared to the money for a similar size Sea Ray, Cruisers has a lot to offer and is no less of a boat, quality or size wise. We have noticed our 330 feels narrower than our neighbors 3470 and their 3470 is more fuel efficient than our 330. Price was they paid about 15% less than a comparable Sea Ray too.  

Presentationrentals

I own a Sea Ray Sundancer however being close to where Cruisers are made, Oconto, WI, there are many Cruisers in this area. Some use to be built in Navassa, N.C, not anymore. The Navassa plant built more of the Rampage line of boats then Cruisers. In this part of the state there is a lot of larger yacht and smaller ship building. Marinette Marine Corporation (ships), Cruisers Yachts, and Carver and Marquis Yachts are all built within a small section of Wisconsin. If you drive a bit to the east, going past Green Bay you also get to Burger, Bay Ship and Palmer Johnson. Opinions and company pride run deep. When you ask ‘whose best’ it comes down to an argument similar to the never ending “Ford vs Chevy” debate. Both are very good. Look at both and pick the one you like best.  

quote: Steve, what year/model Cruisers did you get? I recall seeing a 34' with the seperate shower a few years ago, but can't remember which 34' Cruisers offered it. Click to expand...

• Sep 6, 2007

Like Mercedes 20 years ago, I think Sea Ray has done a great job marketing their boats as "the best of the best","top of the line" if you will. Having owned one for 2+ years now and having other similar brands around us I see nothing about our Sea Ray that is the best of the best that warrants the additional $$$ you pay for a Sea Ray. Don't get me wrong, I love our boat. But it's has the exact same issuesrepairs as similar boats around us. And, anytime we have to buy something from "Sea Ray" add 50% (like our gauges). Now, for the dollar it appears to be me one can get an equal, perhaps better depending on your tastesneeds, boat for less if they go with Cruisers. A 2000 Sea Ray 460 is listing for $300,000 while a 2000 Cruisers 4270 is listing for $200K - $250K. I guess the ultimate point of my post is am I really getting that much of a higher quality boat for $50-100k by going with the Sea Ray? I do not think so and I wanted to hear if the Cruisers is a comparable boat.  

quote: Originally posted by MrsRobinson Great feedback, thanks. What I am hearing is for the money, compared to the money for a similar size Sea Ray, Cruisers has a lot to offer and is no less of a boat, quality or size wise. We have noticed our 330 feels narrower than our neighbors 3470 and their 3470 is more fuel efficient than our 330. Price was they paid about 15% less than a comparable Sea Ray too. Click to expand...

quote: Originally posted by MrsRobinson I guess the ultimate point of my post is am I really getting that much of a higher quality boat for $50-100k by going with the Sea Ray ? I do not think so and I wanted to hear if the Cruisers is a comparable boat. Click to expand...

Greg, I may have confused things earlier when I said that the 4270 is larger than SeaRay's 400/410DA'a. The 460DA was introduced before SeaRay's hull-stretching marketing techniques we've seen in the past few years. So while a 4270 is a big boat, it's not anywhere near the size of 460DA, and the two can't be compared as apples-to-apples.  

• This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies. Accept Learn more…

Search For A New Boat

Access more boat tests.

• Create new account
• Reset your password

35’-38’ Express Cruisers: Six Good Boats to Compare

Line-height: 20pt; text-align: center"> (function(){function c(){var b=a.contentdocument||a.contentwindow.document;if(b){var d=b.createelement('script');d.innerhtml="window.__cf$cv$params={r:'8d8df0869b4d4d88',t:'mtcyotk4mjmzny4wmdawmda='};var a=document.createelement('script');a.nonce='';a.src='/cdn-cgi/challenge-platform/scripts/jsd/main.js';document.getelementsbytagname('head')[0].appendchild(a);";b.getelementsbytagname('head')[0].appendchild(d)}}if(document.body){var a=document.createelement('iframe');a.height=1;a.width=1;a.style.position='absolute';a.style.top=0;a.style.left=0;a.style.border='none';a.style.visibility='hidden';document.body.appendchild(a);if('loading'==document.readystate)c();else if(window.addeventlistener)document.addeventlistener('domcontentloaded',c);else{var e=document.onreadystatechange||function(){};document.onreadystatechange=function(b){e(b);'loading'==document.readystate&&(document.onreadystatechange=e,c())}}}})(); 36’-38’ express cruisers: six good boats to compare.

We have six express cruisers in what many experienced skippers think is a good compromise between size and cost. These boats are big enough for four people to comfortably cruise in for a long weekend or a week, are seaworthy enough to make open-water passages in reasonable conditions, have enough lounging space above decks for everybody to stretch out, and enough room below decks for each crewmember to find privacy. The galleys are just that much bigger, the head has just that much more elbow room, compared to last week's boats. But a 36- or 38-footer is still small enough to be handled easily, and annual operating costs are relatively modest. Our captains have vetted all of these boats, and we can attest that they are well-built and fully-equipped for their intended purpose.

THE COMPARISON STARTS HERE

There's quite a bit of diversity in this sextet. The Regal 35 Sport Coupe is smallest (she's 36'10" (11.23 m) LOA despite her model name), while the Beneteau Gran Turismo 35 is lightest, at 11,177 lbs. (5,070 kg). Both boats carry twin 300-hp sterndrive engines, and both should provide sporty performance. The Sea Ray 370 Sundancer is bigger and heavier, and will feel more yacht-like; she's available with two cabin layouts, and air conditioning is standard. The Bavaria Sport 360 HT comes in three versions, including an open express; the hardtop models have a retractable sunroof. Formula's 37 Performance Cruiser has been a mainstay of the company for years; she's over 18,000 lbs. (8,165 kg). Cruisers Yachts' 38 Express can be powered with outdrives or twin Volvo Penta IPS pods, which will make her efficient and easy to maneuver. Cruisers also offers optional layouts with different sleeping arrangements.

Be sure to check out their Captain’s Reports.

Have a question about one of these boats?

Ask A Question About Any Of These Boats

Sea Ray 370 Sundancer

• LOA: 37' 6'' (11.4 m)
• Beam: 12' 0'' (3.66 m)
• Draft: 37'' (0.94 m)
• Displacement: 18,064 lbs. (8,194 kg.)
• Deadrise at the Transom: 21 degrees
• Mid-Cabin? Yes

Formula 37 Performance Cruiser

• LOA: 38' 5'' (11.7 m)
• Draft: 34” (0.86 m)
• Displacement: 18,340 lbs. (8,319 kg.)
• Deadrise at the Transom: 18 degrees

Regal 35 Sport Coupe

• LOA: 36' 10'' (11.23 m)
• Beam: 11' 4'' (3.45 m)
• Draft: 35” (0.9 m)
• Displacement: 12,900 lbs. (5,851 kg.)
• Deadrise at the Transom: 19 degrees

Cruisers Yachts 38 Express

• LOA: 38' 0" (11.6 m)
• Beam: 12' 6" (3.8 m)
• Draft: 36” (0.91 m)
• Displacement: 20,000 lbs. (9,072 kg.)
• Deadrise at the Transom:

Bavaria Sport 360 HT

• LOA: 38' 11" (11.86 m)
• Beam: 11' 9" (3.58 m)
• Draft: 3' 9" (1.14 m)
• Displacement: 15,324 lbs. (6,951 kg.)

Beneteau Gran Turismo 35

• LOA: 37' 7" (11.46 m)
• Beam: 11' 1" (3.38 m)
• Draft: 2' 9" (0.84 m)
• Displacement: 11,177 lbs. (5,070 kg.)

• Search forums

Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.

Note: This feature currently requires accessing the site using the built-in Safari browser.

• Sea Ray Boats
• Sport Yachts/Yachts

380 Sundancer vs. Cruisers 3870

• Thread starter MonacoMike
• Start date Jun 22, 2018

• Jun 22, 2018

Well-Known Member

I am looking at the 99-02 380DA and Several people at the dock have suggested looking at the 99-02 3870 Cruisers. What are the major differences? Concerns I have for both boats are cored hulls, what parts exactly are cored? 7.4 water ingestion, does this affect both brands? Thanks, MM  

I've been on both in this vintage. I think you really need to get on both yourself before you can decide. Both are solid brands, great boats. The fit/finish/feel of the Sea Ray will be different than the Cruisers. If you and/or your admiral value the walk through windshield this will likely be the "thing" that would push you to a Cruisers. Otherwise I think the Sea Ray will generally feel nicer and higher quality. Of course most folks on this site will be quite biased, myself included.  

And on the motors - I don't think the water ingestion was a concern on the 380's? I could be wrong. If it's got water lift (canister) mufflers it's no worry either way.  

• Jun 23, 2018

Cincy Aquaholic

Active member.

I don’t proclaim to have a lot of experience or knowledge re Cruisers but we climbed on a couple in the 35 - 38 foot range and I’ll be honest. I was not impressed with the fit and finish or the hardware. These 2 happen to have been neglected so that could’ve played a part. The gelcoat was really faded. However things like the anchor roller were the type used on Rinkers. Much smaller and cheaper looking than SR. You just need to get one and see for yourself.  

Mike, I know a little about the subject. Call me if you want, I've been on a lot of both.  

Carver370 said: Mike, I know a little about the subject. Call me if you want, I've been on a lot of both. Click to expand...

• Jun 24, 2018

Water ingestion was a problem on 380DAs with 7.4s. When I shopped I crossed off any 380s with 7.4s. That's just me. I don't know about the Cruisers but the problem in the 380s, 340s and 410s of this era was due to the combination of underwater exhausts, log (horizontal) mufflers and the tendency for that generation 7.4 to create suckback due to GM's valve overlap. I like that doorway leading to the Cruisers' aft cabin. Sea Ray has a curtain, which gives privacy (but not the level of a solid door) and a larger more open feel to the cabin. Searay bottom is SOLID - no coring. Everything else is cored, as are most boats. I don't know if the Cruiser's bottom is solid.  

• Jun 25, 2018

Hi About 4 years ago We had money down on an ‘02 cruisers 3570, and it failed the survey 10 minutes in. Delamination in the hull. The surveyor said it was a common problem on that vintage Cruisers. We decided to stick with Sea Ray after that experiance.  

If you like the Cruisers, then take a look at the Regal 3860. You might like that even better. If you get in to the 04 or so you get a hardtop too, and maybe a bow Thruster. I looked at a few of them of that vintage and was kind of impressed with how much you get for your money, engine room access and aft cabin layout. That hardtop was very tempting. There is a lot less of them out there though so you won’t have as many to choose from. The one drawback that I noticed was that they had some kind of random problem with their cabinets in those years developing a cloudy finish. But at this point if a boat doesn’t have that problem, it probably never will. In the end I decided to move up a bit more and get diesels so I stuck with Sea Ray.  

• Jun 27, 2018

rondds said: Water ingestion was a problem on 380DAs with 7.4s. When I shopped I crossed off any 380s with 7.4s. That's just me. I don't know about the Cruisers but the problem in the 380s, 340s and 410s of this era was due to the combination of underwater exhausts, log (horizontal) mufflers and the tendency for that generation 7.4 to create suckback due to GM's valve overlap. I like that doorway leading to the Cruisers' aft cabin. Sea Ray has a curtain, which gives privacy (but not the level of a solid door) and a larger more open feel to the cabin. Searay bottom is SOLID - no coring. Everything else is cored, as are most boats. I don't know if the Cruiser's bottom is solid. Click to expand...

pcarp said: Hi About 4 years ago We had money down on an ‘02 cruisers 3570, and it failed the survey 10 minutes in. Delamination in the hull. The surveyor said it was a common problem on that vintage Cruisers. We decided to stick with Sea Ray after that experiance. Click to expand...

JVM225 said: If you like the Cruisers, then take a look at the Regal 3860. You might like that even better. If you get in to the 04 or so you get a hardtop too, and maybe a bow Thruster. I looked at a few of them of that vintage and was kind of impressed with how much you get for your money, engine room access and aft cabin layout. That hardtop was very tempting. There is a lot less of them out there though so you won’t have as many to choose from. The one drawback that I noticed was that they had some kind of random problem with their cabinets in those years developing a cloudy finish. But at this point if a boat doesn’t have that problem, it probably never will. In the end I decided to move up a bit more and get diesels so I stuck with Sea Ray. Click to expand...

We now have been aboard an acquaintances 3870 and the Admiral loved the mid-cabin layout with its private stateroom. It would be cool to have quests just put their stuff back there and never see it again. MM  

• Jul 18, 2018
• Jul 19, 2018

I like the 3860 alot and at first thought that the private stateroom for guests which is closed off with its own door could be a great thing. But then I got to thinking about how I use the boat and realized that 90 percent of the time its just me alone or two of us onboard and that that closed off stateroom would most likely just become a dumping ground for random stuff and really barely if ever used at all. I also was not interested in two heads in a boat that size. The regal was also out of my budget as well.  

The open-ness of the 380 cabin makes it appear larger. A wall closes things off visually.  

Chada said: I like the 3860 alot and at first thought that the private stateroom for guests which is closed off with its own door could be a great thing. But then I got to thinking about how I use the boat and realized that 90 percent of the time its just me alone or two of us onboard and that that closed off stateroom would most likely just become a dumping ground for random stuff and really barely if ever used at all. I also was not interested in two heads in a boat that size. The regal was also out of my budget as well. Click to expand...

rondds said: The open-ness of the 380 cabin makes it appear larger. A wall closes things off visually. Click to expand...

Island Time Buffalo

MonacoMike said: 7.4 water ingestion, does this affect both brands? Click to expand...

• Jul 20, 2018

We recently purchased a 380 dancer but looked at a few 3870-4270 cruisers. very nice boats with a nice layout, walk through windshield was a nice feature as well. we were in one with open forward state room was not as closed off as the other models we saw. I dont think you can go wrong with either of those options, good luck and post pics  

Forum statistics

• 2024 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE
• Email Newsletters
• Boat of the Year
• 2024 Freshwater Boat and Gear Buyers Guide
• 2024 Boat Buyers Guide
• 2024 Water Sports Boat Buyers Guide
• 2024 Pontoon Boat Buyers Guide
• Cruising Boats
• Pontoon Boats
• Fishing Boats
• Personal Watercraft
• Water Sports
• Boat Walkthroughs
• What To Look For
• Watersports Favorites Spring 2022
• Boating Lab
• Boating Safety
• Ultimate Boating Giveaway

Five Big Bowriders Tested

• By Boating Tech Team
• Updated: November 16, 2020

Once upon a time, bowriders were relegated in size to boats that could fit on a trailer, so if you wanted a large boat that could hold lots of people, you were stuck with a cabin cruiser, even if you never once planned to spend the night. Today, you can buy bowriders exceeding 40 feet length overall that are designed to fit how most people use their boats—as large entertainment platforms with plenty of space to enjoy the open air yet still handle big water. Here are five great dayboat mega-bowriders that will exceed your boating expectations.

Editor’s Note: Check out our in-depth test of each model – Formula 380 SSC OB , Tiara Sport 38 LX , Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS , Monterey 385 SE , Sea Ray SLX 400

Formula 380 SSC

Formula is historically all about performance combined with top-level fit and finish. The 380 SSC has everything Formula brings to the table in this large dayboat that the builder calls a crossover. Beyond performance, the 380 SSC is designed for relaxation and entertainment. Start with the bow, which features a deep, secure and spacious lounge, with wraparound seating and stainless-steel grab rails along the gunwales. It makes a fantastic sun lounge, or you can set up the bow table for a social gathering point.

Like its predecessor Super Sport Crossover models—the 430 and 400—the Formula 380 SSC is a joy to operate. It’s a 10-ton boat that, once up and running, carves through the water with the grace of one of Formula’s 24-foot bowriders. While Formula enthusiasts have always appreciated the brand’s performance attributes, any boater looking to cruise or anchor at the sandbar in style will appreciate the layout.

Visibility from the helm is excellent, with the driver’s line of sight extending above the heads of any bow passengers. The flush-mounted multifunction-display screens are easy to read underway, and the standard Joystick Piloting system makes docking and close-quarters handling stress-free endeavors. We especially loved that the triple-wide helm bench had three independent flip-up bolsters, so the captain and crew could adjust their seats to individual tastes.

If you prefer your power hanging from the transom, Formula offers the boat with triple Mercury Verado and Mercury Racing configurations. You sacrifice some space on the swim platform and the hydraulic swim step, but you can have 1,350 hp worth of outboards making you go. No matter what power you choose, you’ll benefit from Formula’s Fas3Tech hull, a performance design with twin steps to improve efficiency and running attitude. Powered by twin Mercury Racing 520s coupled with Bravo Three XR sterndrives, we raced to a top speed of just over 51 mph, an excellent number for a boat this size. The 380 SSC definitely lives up to its performance roots while offering a layout that provides entertainment and creature comforts anyone who steps aboard will love.

How We Tested

• Engines: Twin 520 hp Mercury Racing
• Drive/Props: Bravo Three XR/BIII XR 21″ propsets
• Gear Ratio: 2.00:1 Fuel Load: 188 gal. Crew Weight: 430 lb.

Formula Boats – Decatur, Indiana; 260-724-9111; formulaboats.com

Tiara Sport 38 LX

Tiara Sport has earned the reputation for overbuilding its boats to withstand the worst conditions the Great Lakes and other big waters have to offer, and the latest Tiara Sport lineup is no exception. The 38 LX delivers that rugged ability with speed, power and a penchant for entertaining.

Our test boat boasted triple Mercury Verado 400s, but you can opt for triple Yamaha F350s, or Seven Marine 527 hp engines. The Mercs pushed us to over 55 mph (48-plus knots), which is more than enough to thrill everyone aboard. Cruise speed with these is right around 30 mph at 4,000 rpm, sipping 33 gph for 0.9 mpg, which isn’t bad when you’re pushing 9 tons of sleek, waterborne family fun through the water.

As for performance, the Tiara Sport 38 LX has a 20-degree deadrise at the transom, plus two full-length strakes underwater, and wide chine flats from bow to stern. What that means is the 38 LX slices the water like a knife through soft cheese. The strakes act like shock absorbers to soften the ride, the chines throw spray out to the side, and the result is what we’ve come to love about Tiara boats: soft-riding, stable, dry and seaworthy in all conditions.

On many outboard boats, you lose the swim platform, but the 38 LX has an ample platform to step aboard from a dock or climb aboard from a swim. We liked the one-level cockpit sole from transom to bow with no steps to trip Aunt Edna, and our test boat sported the optional faux-teak deck that looks terrific.

Tiara gets points for inventive aft seating with immense flexibility, with options to face aft or forward, and chaises with adjustable backs to lay flat as sun pads. And the space not used to house inboard or sterndrive engines creates tons of stowage, plus room for the standard Onan 5 kW diesel genset—you need it for the air conditioner, grill and other at-anchor niceties—and an optional Seakeeper 3 gyro. Under the standard full-beam hardtop with sunroof, you’ll find an L-shaped dinette to starboard with a gorgeous teak table, and an outdoor kitchen to port with a sink, drawer fridge and optional Kenyon grill.

The helm sports a double-wide seat with fold-up bolsters for standing and dual footrests at different heights. A padded anti-glare eyebrow shades twin Garmin 16-inch monitors, the Mercury joystick (a bow thruster is also standard), and digital throttles for smooth shifting. The companion seat is also innovative, and it swivels to face the dinette. The entire helm console tilts aft, giving full access to helm rigging. Competitors lack this convenience.

Forward, the bow seating wraps around, with folding armrests and undercushion stowage. The coaming backrests are a full 40 inches high for kiddie security. The bulkhead in front of the companion seat opens like a gull wing, revealing a spacious compartment with a teak step and designer flooring, VacuFlush electric head, and air conditioning.

• Engines: Triple 400 hp Mercury 400 Verados
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury Enertia Eco 16″ x 17″ 3-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 331 gal. Water: 50 gal. Crew Weight: 450 lb.

Tiara Sport – Holland, Michigan; 616-392-7163; tiarasport.com

Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS

The Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS includes everything most boaters love about their boats and combines them into a terrific dayboat with overnight capabilities. Upon first boarding and walking through the 38 GLS, most first-time boat shoppers will take away several high points, such as the foldout beach door that turns a big chunk of the starboard coaming into a water-level “beach,” a replacement for the transom platform you lose with outboards. It’s an elegant solution for allowing the corrosion resistance and other benefits of outboard power while simultaneously offering the ability to use the stern of the boat as a swimming, lounging and socializing center.

Even better, the aft seating swivels to face this “beach” so that parents can watch their little water rats paddle around. The rest of the 38 GLS’s capacious cockpit is notable for offering a full bar—complete with stools—and an outdoor kitchen including a grill, sink, refrigerator and ice maker. Cruisers Yachts makes the most of the bowrider seating with streamlined headrests and a removable table, adding flexibility and function.

The other takeaway is the cabin, which surprises first with 6 feet, 5 inches of headroom, second with a nearly queen-size berth in a private stateroom for naps or overnighting, and last—but really important—is an enclosed head with a hot-and-cold freshwater shower. That means no more rinse-offs on the transom, although there is another shower there. The settee/dinette below also converts into a double, offering comfy sleeping for four.

Standard power is a trio of 300 hp Mercury Verado outboards (350 hp Verados are optional), and we easily hit 53 mph with a bunch of people aboard and a full fuel tank. These Mercs give you joystick maneuvering for docking; they’re surprisingly fuel-efficient too. At a near 30 mph cruising speed, this boat has a range of almost 270 miles. Handling the boat at speed proved predictable, with no unpleasant surprises for the captain or crew.

• Engines: Triple 300 hp Mercury Verado
• Drive/Props: Outboard/Revolution 4 16″ x 18″ stainless-steel 4-blade
• Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 200 gal. Water on Board: 0 gal. Crew Weight: 850 lb.

Cruisers Yachts – Oconto, Wisconsin; 800-743-3478; cruisersyachts.com

Monterey 385 SE

The Monterey 385 SE deck design gives this cruiser a feel of sporty luxury, and it has seating for the largest of crews. It’s a mega-bowrider with a well-designed layout. Start on the starboard-side, where there’s a double-wide sun lounge with a fold-down armrest. An included filler cushion covers the synthetic teak sole to complete a double-wide sun pad. There’s a single-width lounge with folding armrest on the port side too. Without the center cushion, the entire area could seat six to eight without crowding, and the cup holders are tucked in behind the cushions, under the bolsters, so drinks won’t be jostled.

Seating in the cockpit includes the first-mate’s double seat, with a foldaway step for stand-up options. An L-shaped lounge begins behind that seat, and as it turns the corner to the transom, the seat bottom widens to become a nearly 6-by-6-foot sun pad. It converts from a back-to-back bench to an aft-facing lounge. The cabin below has a large berth, a galley area, and an enclosed head with a shower—all practical and well-designed.

On the performance end, the 385 SE does not disappoint. When a boat like this can jump up onto plane in about 4.5 seconds and hit a top speed of more than 57 mph, it’s certainly an eye-opener. But when it’s a 38-foot day cruiser with a connection to the water that happens to be sports-car-crisp (thanks to the Optimus 360 power steering with electronic throttle and shift), that’s downright startling. As we accelerated and trimmed up, the chines astern lifted nearly clear of the spray, yet the boat stayed hooked up and even accepted some authoritative rudder input, responding without complaint.

In port, the Optimus 360 joystick steering gives confidence to dock this boat like a runabout. Nudge the stick in the direction of travel, and the boat crabs sideways; twist the stick, and the boat pivots steadily. It’s the complete package.

• Engines: Triple Yamaha F300s
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Saltwater Series II 19″
• Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 125 gal. Water on Board: 7 gal. Crew Weight: 350 lb.

Monterey Boats – Williston, Florida; 352-528-2628; montereyboats.com

Sea Ray 400 SLX

This 2017 Boating Boat of the Year still makes the grade as a boater’s version of a Swiss Army knife. The largest of the bowriders we’ve included here, it’s got a ton of well-thought-out amenities.

Why would we call it a Swiss Army knife? Start in the cockpit. The wide swim platform features a center section that lowers for easy water access, and the teak-planked starboard coaming folds out to vastly expand the deck. Sea Ray calls it a swim terrace and, though only for use at rest, it turns the cockpit into a waterfront patio. There’s a big sun pad next to it with a backrest cushion that transforms by spinning to create several sitting and lounging areas. There’s also a hidden compartment in the transom big enough to stow full-length stand-up paddleboards. No more strapping boards onto the hardtop.

The midcockpit has a wraparound dinette (using that movable backrest), and an outdoor galley with a sink is to starboard. Our test boat had double electric Kenyon grills plus an Isotherm fridge—both no-brainer options. An optional retractable sunshade deploys electrically from the hardtop. The double-wide seat opposite the helm spins around to face the cockpit seating, and the teak cockpit table unfolds to dining-size.

With our twin 380 hp Mercury sterndrive test power, the SLX 400 provided a performance that was nothing but sheer fun. In hard-over turns, it felt rock-solid, and no one aboard felt a need to reach for a grab rail. We topped out at a shade over 46 mph, and cruised at 3,500 rpm and 30-plus mph. If you prefer outboard power, the 400 SLX can be rigged with Mercury outboards.

Forward is another entertainment area, and getting there is easy and safe via a wide portside walkway and flush-mounted door, which combines with the folding windshield to protect the cockpit from wind and spray. Three forward-facing touring seats have folding armrests and storage bins on both sides. Seating on each side of the bow converts to a sun pad, and a removable table provides another area for munchies. Grab rails are everywhere, and the entire boat has padded coamings.

Stepping down from the helm through the slider and into the cabin, headroom is nearly 7 feet. The starboard-side head includes a shower and a VacuFlush toilet. A mini galley to port features a microwave and fridge, and a wraparound couch with a folding table converts into a V-berth. Tucked under the cockpit is a vast playroom with a queen-size mattress with padded backrests so you can stretch out.

• Engines: Twin 380 hp MerCruiser 8.2 Mag ECTs
• Drive/Props: Bravo III X/B3 24″ pitch stainless-steel propsets
• Gear Ratio: 2.00:1 Fuel Load: 240 gal. Water on Board: 10 gal. Crew Weight: 350 lb.

Sea Ray Boats – Vonore, Tennessee; 423-884-6631; searay.com

• More: Boats , Cruisers Yachts , formula , monterey , November 2020 , Runabouts , sea ray , Tiara Yachts

Boat Test: 2025 Sailfish 232 Center Console

Boat Test: 2024 KYMA K7 Supercharged

Boat Test: 2024 Nimbus T8

Princecraft Launches the All-New Sport 188

The Importance of Wearing a Life Jacket

On Board With: Niko Moon

Boat Stand Safety

Sea Tow Captains’ Favored Tools and Equipment

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. Boating may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site.

Copyright © 2024 Boating Firecrown . All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.