Best Cabin Cruiser Boats: Features And Reviews

Cabin cruisers are a great choice for families and those who want to travel longer distances. They offer the comforts of larger yachts at a lower cost and are easier to operate.

When deciding which cabin cruiser is best for you, consider how much space you need, how long you plan to cruise for, and how comfortable you feel navigating tighter waterways and docking.

- Sea Ray SLX 400 OB: Sea Ray's flagship model offers outstanding use of space and basic accommodations, with seating for up to 22 people and a top speed of 45 knots.

- Axopar 45 XC: This adventure cabin cruiser from Finnish builder Axopar features a glorious upper pilothouse and salon with fold-down terrace seating and sliding doors that blur the lines between dock and boat.

- Tiara 43 LE: This small motor yacht from Tiara is beautifully appointed and well-equipped, with a large island berth forward and a separate double stateroom. It reaches a top speed of around 54 miles per hour.

- Grand Banks Eastbay 44: The Eastbay 44 is the smallest Downeast cabin cruiser from Grand Banks. It combines a spacious interior with a stable ride and is built with the brand's renowned pursuit of perfection.

- Jeanneau Merry Fisher 1295: This three-level yacht offers three staterooms, two heads, comfortable seating, lounge space, and plenty of storage. It provides excellent value for its price point.

- Rinker 270 Express Cruiser: This agile cruiser from Rinker offers a fully equipped galley, a head with a wet shower, and sleeping quarters for up to four people.

- Regal 42 Fly: This spacious flybridge yacht from Regal flirts with the lifestyle of a larger motor yacht. It offers two large staterooms, a choice of adding an extra head, and excellent options like a Seakeeper 3 gyro stabilizer.

- Back Cove 34O: The Back Cove 34O combines performance, comfort, and seaworthiness, making it a cruising couple's dream. It features a versatile cockpit, a fully equipped galley, and loads of storage space.

- Azimut Magellano 43: The Azimut Magellano 43 offers a mix of solid performance and luxurious surroundings. It features three cabins, two full heads, a fully equipped galley, and loads of room to entertain and relax.

- Intrepid 41 Valor: The Intrepid 41 Valor is a cabin cruiser designed for performance, with a large wraparound cockpit lounge and a private retreat below deck that includes a queen-size berth and a galley.

- Regal 33 Express: The Regal 33 Express has everything you need for extended stays on the water, despite its diminutive size. It offers a spacious cockpit, well-thought-out seating options, and an UltraLounge four-position seat on the stern.

- Sabre Salon Express 38: The Sabre Salon Express 38 combines classic Downeast lines with modern features, making it a boat that boaters recognize. It offers an open and elegant salon, a spacious cockpit, a fully equipped galley, a master berth, and a full head.

- Jeanneau NC1095 Fly: The Jeanneau NC1095 Fly is a practical and intelligently designed cabin cruiser with ample space and intelligent features. It offers three staterooms, a spacious salon, and excellent performance and responsiveness.

- Sea Ray Sundancer 320: The Sundancer 320 is a perfect blend of speed and overnight accommodations, making it a popular choice among boaters. It features a new bow lounge, a wet bar, a submersible swim platform, and a functional and spacious layout.

- Jeanneau Leader 33: The Jeanneau Leader 33 is a moderately sized cabin cruiser with surprising space and plush interiors. It offers two galleys, two sleeping berths, and an expansive head with a separate shower stall, making it ideal for weekend getaways.

- Regal 38 SAV: The Regal 38 SAV defies categorization, offering the amenities of a fully-furnished cabin cruiser with the look of a simple center console. It provides excellent layout and versatility, making it perfect for a variety of activities.

Best small cabin cruisers

Small cabin cruisers are perfect for those looking to downsize and simplify their boating lifestyle. They are also great for those who are new to boating, as they are relatively simple to operate and easy to maintain.

When looking for the best small cabin cruiser, there are a few key things to consider. Firstly, where do you plan to use it? A coastal boat will require more horsepower than a river boat. Secondly, how much time will you spend on board? If you plan to live on board, you may prioritise interior comfort over outdoor lounging space. Lastly, your personal style and price range will also be important factors in your decision.

Finnmaster T8

The Finnmaster T8 is a beautiful 26-foot boat that offers a huge cockpit and an impressive small-boat cabin. It can sleep four people in two cabins and has seating for ten people. The main cabin features large windows, an angled bed, and a compact port lounge area, creating a lovely and bright space. The outdoor cockpit has an eight-man dinette, making it a very inclusive space. While it may not be the fastest or sharpest handling small cruiser, its safe family cockpit, superb master cabin, extensive features, and stylish design make it one of the best in its class.

Flipper 880ST

The Flipper 880ST is designed to be practical, high-performing, and safe, while also looking fresh and feeling good. By using outboard propulsion, the designer has created a spacious aft cabin, which is usually occupied by an inboard engine. The light throughout the boat is exceptional, and the internal design is clean and modern. While it may be a bit sluggish with a pair of 150s and the headroom in the forward cabin is not generous, it is a tidy, affordable, and versatile platform for a family cruiser.

Sargo 25

The Sargo 25 is one of the best-value boats in the world. It offers two cabins, one in the bow and one hidden beneath the saloon seating, a separate heads compartment, convertible galley equipment, and a fridge. It also has an all-weather wheelhouse, safe wraparound decks, and decent external spaces. The performance of the Sargo 25 is soft-riding and potent, making it a capable and versatile cruising companion.

Jeanneau Merry Fisher 895 Sport

The Jeanneau Merry Fisher 895 Sport is a great starting point for those looking for a small cabin cruiser. At almost 29 feet long, it offers two light and comfortable berths in separate double cabins, an excellent helm, and a comfortable dinette seating four. It also has full standing room in the ensuite, with a pull-out shower. Power options range from a single 175hp outboard to twin 250hp engines, making it suitable for both inland river and coastal conditions. With a starting price of $130,000, it is an excellent and versatile small family cabin cruiser.

Ranger Tugs R-29S

The Ranger Tugs R-29S is a modern American classic, designed more as a small ship than a pleasure boat. It is offered with a single 320hp Volvo D4 diesel engine and comes standard with bow and stern thrusters for easy docking. The accommodation can be heated or air-conditioned, and the engine sips just 2 gallons of fuel per hour at 7 knots, giving it a cruising range of 500 miles. The top speed is a healthy 23.4 knots. The standard inventory is comprehensive, and there are many optional extras available, including a dinghy, generator, solar panels, and even a TV in the saloon. While the Ranger can sleep up to six, it is built to accommodate two people in long-distance comfort.

Regal 28 Express

The Regal 28 Express is better suited to warmer climates and is more of a mini-Mediterranean-style cabin cruiser. It offers an open cockpit design with multiple sunbathing spaces, seating that converts into a sun pad, and an outdoor wet bar. It has a powerful 380hp Volvo petrol sterndrive, capable of speeds of just under 32 knots. It is ideal for lounging at a sandbar or anchored off a beach, and with its optional 32-inch TV in the saloon and large wraparound sofa, it is perfect for family weekends away.

Beneteau Antares 8

The Beneteau Antares 8 is an excellent option if you're looking for a cabin cruiser on a budget, with a starting price of just $88,000. It accommodates four people, with a convertible upper saloon and a forward twin cabin. It has a small but usable galley with a choice of gas or electric cooking and plenty of seating for four. The well-equipped helm has power steering and digital controls, and optional extras like a bow thruster and lithium-ion air conditioning make it a great starter boat for both warm and cool climates.

Cutwater C-302 Sport Coupe

The Cutwater C-302 Sport Coupe is an outboard-powered cruiser with a lot of utility. By using outboards instead of inboard power, Cutwater has created more space inside the gunwales, with extra room in the cockpit and underdeck stowage. The cockpit has a sink and grill, fold-out seats, and benches that fold outboard over the water. There is also a live well for anglers and rod storage. The main saloon has convertible seating, a galley, and a berth hidden under the dinette seating. The stateroom below has a comfortable island berth and a separate enclosed head and shower.

Boston Whaler 285 Conquest

The Boston Whaler 285 Conquest is the entry-level model in the Conquest line, but it is a serious and versatile boat. It offers plenty of storage, versatile seating, and a generous alfresco deck space. Below decks, there is sleeping space for four, a proper galley, and a private heads compartment. While it may not be a new model, it is built like a tank and can handle decent seas. It also comes with the sturdy residual values that the builder is famous for.

English Harbour Yachts 27

The English Harbour 27 makes excellent use of its modest length, combining many talents in a single platform. It has a semi-displacement hull optimised for both gentle inland pursuits and coastal and offshore use. It features two separate cabins that can be converted from twins to doubles, a heads with a separate shower compartment, and a spacious saloon with dining space for six. There are five engine options, as well as an all-electric e-drive option for the eco-conscious. This thoroughly British boat offers a lot of bang for your buck.

Best cabin cruiser boats for beginners

If you're new to boating, you'll want to start with a simple boat that you can master in no time. Here are some of the best cabin cruiser boats for beginners:

Dinghy

Dinghy is always a great choice for first-time boat buyers as they are versatile, lightweight, and easy to use. They are usually under 15 feet long, making them perfect for trailers, and their propulsion system can be as simple as a small outboard engine, a sail, or even a pair of oars.

Aluminum Fishing Boat

Aluminum fishing boats are rugged, versatile, and perfect for navigating shallow or secluded waters. They usually take no more than a season or two to learn from stem to stern and can be transported in the bed of a pickup truck or on a car roof rack.

Pontoon Boat

Pontoon boats are loved by first-time buyers for their stable, flat decks and easy maneuverability. They are spacious and perfect for having guests on board, whether for cruising, fishing, or enjoying a day on the water.

Bowrider

Bowriders are relatively inexpensive, easy to handle, and great for learning the ins and outs of boating. Depending on the model, they can reach speeds above 50 mph, making them perfect for watersports enthusiasts.

Deck Boat

Deck boats focus on providing a roomy and flexible experience, often giving up some performance for a bigger, more open layout ideal for families and parties. They ride on top of the water, providing a more stable ride.

Fish-and-Ski Boat

If you're looking for a boat that combines fishing and watersports capabilities, a fish-and-ski boat might be perfect. These medium-sized vessels (about 15-22 feet long) offer endless activity options and are usually trailerable.

Other Options

Other cabin cruiser boats that are worth considering for beginners include the Defiance 250 San Juan, Jeanneau NC Weekender series, and Katanacraft Monsoon 250 and 280. These boats offer simplicity, ease of maintenance, and affordability, making them great choices for new boaters.

Best cabin cruiser fishing boats

If you're looking for a cabin cruiser that can double as a fishing boat, there are plenty of options on the market. Here are some of the best cabin cruiser fishing boats available:

Boston Whaler

Boston Whaler boats come ready to fish, straight out of the box. They have all the standard armaments, and offer cruising speeds in the mid-30-mph range, with extended ranges that make offshore fishing possible.

Grady-White

The Grady-White Express Cabin 330 and 370, the Marlin 300, and the 456 Canyon all have everything you need for serious angling, including livewells, fishboxes, and rod holders. While the 456 Canyon is considered a centre console, it's so large it has a full cabin with all the comforts of home inside the console.

Mikelson Yachts

Mikelson Yachts builds a series of cruising yachts ranging from 43 to 75 feet that are well equipped for fishing. These boats take luxury to the next level, with multiple private staterooms, full saloons, and flying bridges. They also have open aft cockpits designed and outfitted for offshore fishing.

Nitro Z17

The Nitro Z17 is a highly affordable cabin cruiser with fishing capabilities. At $33,000, it's a great option for those on a budget. It comes with a 115-horsepower Mercury FourStroke outboard, a 23-gallon livewell with aeration and timer functions, a bow mount electric trolling motor, and a flush-mounted fish finder.

Pro-Line 20 Express

Pro-Line's 20 Express is a 20-foot-long transport that can accommodate seven people and cargo. It's built for both practicality and fun, with features like a swim platform and a shatter-resistant tempered glass windshield. Priced at $27,000, it's a great option for those looking for an affordable cabin cruiser.

Regal 38 SAV

The Regal 38 SAV is a cabin cruiser that defies categorisation. It looks like a simple centre console, but it has the amenities of a fully-furnished cabin cruiser. It's ideal for fishing, cruising, tanning, or playing in the water. It offers excellent and usable layout with adaptive aft cockpit space, bow seating, versatile captain seats, and a standing headroom cabin with convertible berths and seating.

Best luxury cabin cruisers

If you're looking for the best luxury cabin cruisers, you're spoilt for choice. Here are some top picks:

Cruisers Yachts Cantius

Cruisers Yachts redefined the cabin cruiser with its Cantius series, and this range continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a comfortable cruising experience. The Cantius boats range from 42 to 60 feet and boast impressive features such as massive saloon and hull-side windows, retractable sunroofs, full-beam staterooms, cedar-lined closets, and bow lounges.

Sabre Yachts

The Sabre lineup offers a range of luxury cabin cruisers from 38 to 58 feet, with exceptional fit, finish, upholstery, and woodwork. What sets Sabre apart is their traditional Downeast designs, reminiscent of classic lobster boats. Built in Maine, Sabres stand out with their elegant and timeless aesthetic.

Tiara Yachts

Tiara Yachts builds a range of dayboats and cruisers, from 34'9" to 60'3", that are known for their luxurious features. Their boats include spectacular amenities such as 360-degree spinning loungers and sofas, saloons surrounded by windows, and full-beam staterooms illuminated by hull-side windows.

Hardy Motor Yachts

UK-based Hardy Motor Yachts offers a range of aft cabin cruisers, with their 65DS model being one of the largest in its class. These boats provide ample interior space with private staterooms and elevated cockpits, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a spacious and luxurious cruising experience.

Marex

The Norwegian boat builder Marex offers the 320 Aft Cabin, a compact yet feature-rich option. At 32'5" in length, the Marex 320 packs a lot of amenities, including two separate private staterooms, a saloon, a fully enclosed head with a shower, and a spacious aft cabin. This boat has won multiple awards, including Motorboat of the Year and European Yacht of the Year.

Best aft cabin cruisers

Aft cabin cruisers are larger vessels that are frequently used for overnight cruising and day cruising. They are sought after for their deeper drafts and wide beams. While they may seem strange to some, as most American boat builders have ceased their production, you can still find them on the used boat market or from some European builders.

• Hardy Motor Yachts: This UK boatbuilder offers a range of aft cabin cruisers, including the 65DS, one of the largest on the market. Their boats feature private staterooms and elevated cockpits. The 65DS won the Best Passagemaker award in the 2019 Motorboating & Yachting awards.
• Marex: This Norwegian builder offers the 320 Aft Cabin, which houses a substantial aft cabin below a sunpad. It has two separate private staterooms, a saloon, and a fully enclosed head with a shower. The 320 Aft Cabin won multiple awards upon its introduction in 2013, including Motorboat of the Year and European Yacht of the Year.
• Carver: Carver is one of the most iconic manufacturers of aft cabin cruisers. Their boats offer a variety of propulsion systems, including inboard, outboard, and inboard/outboard.
• Sea Ray: Sea Ray is another iconic manufacturer known for their Sundancer series, which offers spacious and comfortable cabins. Their boats feature submersible swim platforms and plush seating.
• Silverton: Silverton is a well-known manufacturer of aft cabin cruisers, offering a range of propulsion options and fuel systems.

When choosing an aft cabin cruiser, consider factors such as size, power, and your intended use. These boats provide a great blend of comfort and performance, making them ideal for those who want to cruise in style.

Frequently asked questions