Tiara-Inspired Boats: Exploring Similar Open Layout Vessel Options

Tiara Yachts are regarded as a higher-end boat, with a focus on luxury and performance. They are visually stunning, incredibly comfortable, technologically advanced, and easy to pilot. Tiara offers both inboard and outboard vessels, with the former ranging from 39 to 60 feet and the latter from 34 to 48 feet. The company traces its roots back to 1946 when founder Leon Slikkers began his career at Chris-Craft. In the following decade, he established his own brand, SlickCraft, and later co-founded S2 Yachts with his sons. While S2 initially focused on sailboats, they introduced the Tiara powerboat line in 1976, which eventually became today's Tiara Yachts brand.

If you're looking for boats similar to the Tiara Open, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, Luhrs manufactures 'Open' models in the 30-34 foot range. Additionally, Tiara, Pursuit, S2 Yachts, and SlickCraft all share a similar heritage as they were created by the Slikkers family. Therefore, boats from these brands, such as the Pursuit 3000 Offshore, will have similar characteristics to the Tiara Open. Other comparable boats include the Wellcraft Coastal, Rampage, and larger Grady Whites.

Tiara 3100 Open

The Tiara 3100 Open is a versatile, multipurpose boat with a spacious 12-foot-long stepped cockpit, a wood-crafted interior, and a fully-equipped galley, berths, and head. It's a great option for those looking for a boat that can accommodate guests, with its port and starboard cockpit steps for safer boarding, trademark diamond-pattern non-skid surface, and ample space for entertainment.

The helm design is one of the best in its class, with a removable clear plastic covering to protect against salt spray and corrosion. The high profile of the windshield means you won't have to bend down to see through it, whether you're standing or sitting at the helm. The boat also offers exceptional freedom of movement, with no built-in seating in the aft cockpit, allowing for the addition of folding chairs.

The Tiara 3100 Open has a large centre-line sliding door into the cabin, which provides a smooth entry without the need for contortions. The cabin features an offset double berth forward, a settee layout, and a huge electric panel. The galley, however, may be a bit disappointing as it lacks usable counter space due to the half-height refrigerator.

The boat's engine compartment has been criticised for its poor accessibility, with a small opening that makes it challenging to perform even simple tasks like an oil change. Despite this drawback, the rest of the boat is a delight, offering a wonderful cruising or fishing experience.

The Tiara 3100 Open is a popular choice in regions with longer summers, such as the southeast and Gulf Coast of the United States. Its large cockpit design is ideal for soft enclosures, and the electrically opened centre section provides excellent ventilation. The combination of a radar arch and windshield height gives plenty of headroom under the Bimini.

Tiara 3600 Open

The Tiara 3600 Open is a sports yacht and a dual-purpose boat, serving as both a quasi sport fisherman/express. It was designed and built in the United States by Tiara Yachts, who are known for their luxury and performance yachts. The 3600 Open has a top speed of 28 knots and a cruising speed of 28 knots, powered by twin 419hp Cummins QSB6.7 425mhp engines.

The Tiara 3600 Open has one cabin and can accommodate up to four guests, making it ideal for weekend trips and longer voyages. The yacht measures 39'8" in length, with a beam of 13'9" and a draft of 2'11" at full load. It has a fuel capacity of 396 gallons, a fresh water capacity of 85 gallons, and a black water capacity of 45 gallons.

The Tiara 3600 Open was produced from 1985 to 1996 with only minor changes, demonstrating its success and popularity. The yacht's construction quality is exceptional, with solid glass hulls and balsa-cored decks. The hull is well-bulkheaded, preventing torsional hull twisting. The hardware, including aluminium windshields and solid plastic rub rails, is designed to last and withstand the elements.

The Tiara 3600 Open offers two layout options: Plan A, the standard express layout, features a small dinette and a convertible lounge. The galley, however, is on the smaller side. Plan B provides a more spacious galley with a U-shaped design and ample counter and cabinet space. This layout is ideal for those who prioritise cooking and food preparation.

The helm station of the Tiara 3600 Open is one of its standout features, praised as one of the best-designed helm stations in the industry. The 20" vertical destroyer wheel and engine control placement allow for easy and safe operation, even in rough waters. The high windshield keeps the spray off the instrument panel and the helm, ensuring good visibility. Additionally, the electrically opened small windshield centre section provides excellent ventilation.

The Tiara 3600 Open is an excellent choice for those seeking a dual-purpose yacht that combines fishing and cruising capabilities. With its spacious layout, high-quality construction, and impressive performance, the 3600 Open offers a comfortable and enjoyable boating experience.

Tiara 35 Open

The Tiara 35 Open (or 3500 Open) is a beautifully crafted express cruiser with classic styling. Built on a modified-V hull with a wide 13'3" beam, prop pockets reduce draft and shaft angles. The 3500 Open is a great option for those seeking a cruising boat, with its large cockpit providing an excellent platform for fishing as well. The entire bridge deck rises on hydraulic rams for access to the motors.

Below deck, the spacious single-stateroom interior features handcrafted teak joinery, leather upholstery, and a full teak-and-holly cabin sole. The helm features an L-shaped lounge, and the boat includes aft-facing cockpit seats, an electric windshield vent, an integral swim platform, and a bow pulpit. The standard big-block gas inboards deliver a cruising speed of 18 knots, with a top speed of 29-30 knots. For greater speed, optional 370hp Cummins diesel engines reach a top speed of around 30 knots while cruising at 25-26 knots.

The Tiara 35 Open is a fantastic choice for those seeking a combination of style, performance, and comfort. With its spacious interior and well-designed layout, this boat is perfect for both cruising and fishing enthusiasts.

Similar boats to the Tiara 35 Open include the 2002 model, which offers a similar experience. Additionally, the Tiara 3100 Open is another option, although it is a bit smaller. For those seeking a different brand, the Luhrs 'Open' models in the 30-34 foot range could be considered.

Tiara 42 Open

The Tiara 4200 Open is a powerful and luxurious yacht, with a sleek and iconic hull shape. It has a spacious and flexible layout, making it perfect for entertainment and extended stays on the water.

The Tiara 4200 Open has a fuel capacity of 520 gallons and a water capacity of 130 gallons. It comes with standard power of 2/535-hp Cummins QSM11 diesel inboards, but you can also opt for 2/700-hp Caterpillar C12 diesel inboards. The yacht offers excellent maneuverability, even in tight spaces, thanks to its standard Teleflex hydraulic controls and four-blade Michigan wheels.

The yacht reaches impressive speeds, with a top speed of 39.9 mph at 2300 rpm. Even at a cruise speed of 34 mph, it has a respectable range of 288 NM. The Tiara 4200 Open achieves these speeds while maintaining a lightweight construction, weighing only 28,000 pounds when dry.

The helm is thoughtfully designed with excellent sightlines and an adjustable double-wide electrically adjustable seat. The composite windshield frame ensures unobstructed views, and the electronics console is positioned for easy viewing and piloting. The L-shaped lounge on the bridge deck provides a comfortable space for guests, and the cockpit offers additional seating with an aft-facing bench.

Below deck, the accommodations are airy and spacious. The lounge to port converts into a berth for two, and there's a Pullman berth for one more. The galley features a teak-and-holly sole, and the interior is finished in standard teak or optional honey ash veneer. The head has access from both the saloon and the master forward, which includes a pedestal berth and innerspring mattress.

The Tiara 4200 Open truly shines, providing endless days on the water with its impressive performance, spacious layout, and luxurious accommodations.

Tiara 44/47 Sovran

The Tiara 44/47 Sovran is a high-end yacht that delivers remarkable luxury, design sophistication, and engineering standards. The yacht's styling is highlighted by a fully integrated hardtop, graceful sheer, and slightly reversed transom. The interior focuses on comfort and function, with a two-stateroom layout featuring satin-finished teak woodwork, Corian counters, and Ultra-leather seating. Each stateroom has an en-suite head, and the yacht accommodates five people comfortably. The topside features an electrically adjustable Stidd helm seat, a lounge opposite the helm, and fore and aft-facing seats in the lower cockpit. The extended swim platform can accommodate a dinghy or PWC.

The Tiara 44/47 Sovran is known for its stable ride and cruising capabilities, although some owners have reported a "wet" ride in choppy waters. The hull design is slightly bulbous, which may contribute to the "wet" ride experience. However, the boat handles well and provides a comfortable and secure feeling even in challenging conditions.

The yacht is well-equipped with various systems and features. It has a Tiara custom electrical system, multiple fuel and water tanks, and a fire extinguisher system in the engine room. The engine room also houses twin Cummins QSM-11 660HP Diesels, and the yacht is equipped with a bow thruster and power steering system. Electronics include GPS, radar, autopilot, VHF radio, compass, and a satellite TV system.

Overall, the Tiara 44/47 Sovran is a well-crafted and luxurious yacht, ideal for cruising and accommodating small groups. Its combination of performance, comfort, and design makes it a desirable choice for those seeking a high-end boating experience.

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