15 Best Cabin Cruiser Boats in 2023

Cabin Cruiser Boats

Comfortable, versatile, and easy to operate. A cabin cruiser is a great choice for families and those who want to cruise a little further.

They offer overnight accommodation. As well as all the amenities you need to spend several days out on the water.

A cabin cruiser hits the mark between an RV and a floating luxury hotel room. Although they give you many of the comforts of larger yachts, they cost much less and are easier to operate.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best cabin cruisers money can buy in 2023.

Notice the different sizes and pay attention to some of the really smart features. Check out some videos in the guide at the bottom.

See our quick top 15, or go further down and read our in-depth reviews.

The Top 5 Cabin Cruiser Boats in 2023

All the Cabin Cruiser Boats We've tested

Elegant & Advanced


With a focus on sport-styling and yachting amenities, the Tiara 43 LE offers a blend of smart functionality and thrilling performance, providing guests the ultimate enjoyment and relaxation on the water. This cabin cruiser speaks to the future of a mechanized frame that can expand its patio surface when anchored.

From the bow to the stern to the cabin below, the 43 LE boasts some of the best on-deck features you’ll see anywhere, including overnight capabilities for up to five people and a chaise lounge sun pad in the bow.

But the aft deck is where she truly comes to life. It features a rotating lounge with multiple locking positions along with a built-in footrest and a table. Plus, a fold-down terrace that expands the cockpit and brings you even closer to the water. The icing on the cake is the electric grill located behind the seat.

The 43 LE combines performance with modular mechanization that is obviously inspired by the Transformers universe! Pretty impressive, indeed.

Specs & Features

  • Length: 43’6”
  • Beam: 13’
  • Dry weight: 22,100lbs
  • Capacity: sleeps 5, entertains many more
  • Motor: triple outboard motors

Our Overall Review

We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:

4.9

Things we like:

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    Great performance
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    Garmin navigation system integrated as standard
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    Extremely comfortable
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    The triple outboard motor system with integrated electronics for supreme performance
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    Expandable aft deck with rotating lounge
Click to see more

Things we don't like:

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    It has no cloaking shield!
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Where to buy:

Tiara 43 LE

Paragon of Coastal Cruisers


Impeccable craftsmanship, outstanding performance, and sumptuous amenities, welcome aboard the Eastbay 44 by Grand Banks.

It features a cozy teak-clad cockpit seating/dining area with large electric windows so you can enjoy the breeze at the push of a button.

Thanks to her wide beam, a variety of cabin configurations can be created—including overnight accommodation for up to six people. The main cabin comes with a full-sized bed and plenty of wardrobe space.

With a capacity for longer voyages, cruise the coast of North America or sail the Great Loop. Plenty of space and tank capacity will keep you on the water longer.

The traditional deep-V hull delivers a smooth and dry ride that also allows for good maneuverability too. Drawing on the Grand Banks tradition of stable sea-faring boats, this one will bring out and home again safely.

Specs & Features

  • Length: 48’1”
  • Beam: 14’7”
  • Dry Weight: 29,700 lbs
  • Capacity: 6 people
  • Motor: 2 Inboard

Our Overall Review

4.8

Things we like:

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    Excellent performance in rough waters
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    Spacious—both outside and in
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    Good maritime design for longer voyages
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    Comfortable
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Things we don't like:

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    She comes pretty close to being almost too big
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Where to buy:

The Grand Banks Eastbay 44

Comfort with a Flybridge


The NC1095 Fly is the culmination of a practical approach to a cabin cruiser with intelligent design spawned by a modern interpretation of what cruising is all about. This is an amazing 3 stateroom, 35-foot boat that can so easily be called a home away from home.

This is a plus model option to Juneau’s 35 foot flagship NC1095 that adds the flybridge for those lovely sunny days when you can lavish in getting closer to the sun. It has ample space in the aft section of the cockpit with a movable sofa seat when tilting the two outboard motors.

The salon itself is full of storage cubbies, a long galley table with sink and stove and a modular table that doubles as an additional berth. With the cockpit enclosure around the aft seating area, the living space becomes that much more impressive in a 35 footer.

The Fly is easily big enough for a family or a small party to while away a weekend or a summer playing cards, reading, while cruising to another horizon.

As a performance vessel, the NC1095 Fly handles like a bowrider. It’s twin Yamaha outboards are quiet but insistent and the controls–including bow thruster–make turning, docking, navigating intuitive and responsive. Powered by Garmin instruments with optional auto-pilot solutions, even less-experienced mariners will feel more at ease behind the wheel.

Speaking of space again, the recessed starboard side deck makes for quick access for laying out fenders and moorings, while access to the boat’s mechanical, power and fuel systems makes visual inspection and maintenance that much easier.

The V-berth stateroom has a lot of natural light and smart storage. The second berth has plenty of space with standing room too, while the third stateroom–a little smaller–still has a double bunk and an optional second fridge.

Built in the Cadillac, Michigan factory the venerable Juneau Yacht company has joined its artisan past with its desire to adapt and improve. The flydeck variant of their motor boat flagship is testament to Juneau’s history of understanding what works and doing it even better.

Specs & Features

  • Length: 34’3”
  • Beam: 11’
  • Dry weight: 11,685lbs
  • Capacity: Sleeps up to 8
  • Motor: 2 outboards

Our Overall Review

We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:

4.8

Things we like:

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    It’s a cabin cruiser that handles like a runabout
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    Optional sleeping capacity for 8
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    Recessed starboard sidedeck for easy docking
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    Salon and aft seating makes entertaining easy
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    Easy access to component for quick visual inspection
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    Great natural light in the V-berth stateroom (The Master)
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    Lots of stowage
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Things we don't like:

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    What’s not to like?
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Where to buy:

Jeanneau NC1095 Fly


The Rinker boat company may have gone the way of the dinosaurs, but the 270 Express Cruiser will be around for a while. Polaris has assumed ownership and support for these agile cruisers.

Enjoy 6’5” cabin headroom, a fully equipped galley, a head with wet shower, and sleeping quarters that can stretch 4 people if it has to.

Rinker has designed a smaller boat that has designs that make it seem bigger. Step inside and see how functionality isn’t compromised by a more streamlined setup.

An older, discontinued model, but a good one.

And the Express Cruiser certainly loves to move, meaning you got the amenities in something that motors like a speed boat.

Wakeboarding and tubing is quite a reasonable thing to do with the 270.

Choose either the MerCruiser SeaCore Drive or the workhorse Volvo Penta OceanX Drive for gasoline or diesel motors respectively.

As an update, this model seems to be discontinued, but as a used boat for sale with low running hours, it could be an affordable way to satisfaction.

Specs & Features

  • Length: 28’10”
  • Beam: 8’6”
  • Dry weight: 7,085lbs
  • Capacity: sleeps 4
  • Motor : Inboard MerC (gasoline) or Volvo Penta (Diesel)

Our Overall Review

We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:

4.7

Things we like:

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    Lots of headroom in the cabin
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Things we don't like:

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    Nothing!
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Where to buy:

Rinker 270 Express Cruiser

Outboard elegance


The perfectly balanced combination of performance, comfort, and downeast seaworthiness make the Back Cove 34O a cruising couple’s dream.

Her entirely new hull features Trailing Edge Lifting Surface (TRELIS) *D* design technology and is fitted with a standard bow thruster. The 34O delivers cruise and top-end speeds approximately 10 knots faster than the traditional single diesel Back Cove.

Built with entertaining in mind, the cockpit boasts an elegant salon with a versatile and comfortable settee along with a fully equipped galley. The aft-facing seat converts into a helm deck U-shaped dinette or second berth.

We’ve been seeing the double outboard motor solution on bigger boats in the last few years, and the Back Cove 340 does it pretty well. With twin 300hp Yamahas (or upgrade to 350hp with optional Suzuki), the performance of this cabin cruiser seems like a ski boat when it gets the chance to stretch its legs.

A couple of highlights of this cabin cruiser is the inventive helm step that provides excellent visibility as well as loads of storage space below the helm deck—large enough to fit all your water toys and fishing gear.

When dusk turns to dark, head over to the spacious master cabin where you’ll find a large and comfortable bed as well as a separate head and shower.

Specs & Features

  • Length: 38’11”
  • Beam: 11’10”
  • Dry weight: 17,000lbs
  • Motor: 2 outboards

Our Overall Review

We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:

4.7

Things we like:

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    Beautiful design
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    Fuel efficient
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    Ample storage space under the helm deck
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    Inventive helm step
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    Fine woodworking
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Things we don't like:

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    Couldn’t find anything!
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Where to buy:

Back Cove 34O

Motor Yachting Prestige


The Azimut Magellano 43 deserves a place in our list for her unparalleled mix of solid-performance with uber-luxurious surroundings. It’s a cabin cruiser built for long-range yachting. You’ll want to just keep sailing on.

It features three decks of pure sophistication and attention to detail. It comes with
three cabins, two full heads, a fully equipped galley, and loads of room to walk around, entertain, and relax.

Designed for luxury cruising, this trawler-inspired vessel comes with the unique Dual Mode hull, which ensures comfortable navigation and excellent seafaring even in choppy, deep-sea conditions.

This cabin cruiser, like the Grand Banks in this list, challenges the category and will likely be referred to by their owners and spectators as a beautiful yacht. That’s where this model fits on this list: a cabin cruiser boat that’s bigger in every way, including style and price.

It’s designed for extended voyages on bigger seas, but it’ll generate attention in the marina. The Magellano’s size will, however, make finding a slip difficult, so bear this in mind.

Specs & Features

  • Length: 43’10”
  • Beam: 14’5”
  • Dry weight: 38,800lbs
  • Capacity: sleeps 5+
  • Motor: 2 Inboard

Our Overall Review

We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:

4.8

Things we like:

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    Up to 22 knots speed!
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    Comfortable
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    Multiple social zones
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    Amazing stability in rough waters
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    Classy interiors
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Things we don't like:

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    Absolutely nothing!
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Where to buy:

Azimut Magellano 43


One of the most recent additions to the Intrepid Powerboats line-up is the 409 Valor, a cabin cruiser designed for performance.

Despite the temptation of doing the next Key West Poker Run, it features a clean and crisp design and offers you and your guests loads of comfort and space for a memorable day of cruising or a pleasant overnight stay.

The large wraparound cockpit lounge is great for entertaining. Add the optional wet bar and the party is complete.

The private retreat below the cockpit includes a large queen-size berth in the aft, a galley on the starboard side, a private head with shower stall on the port side along with a V-shaped settee that can also be converted into a berth with the optional Hi-Lo table and filler cushion.

As with all Intrepids, it also features the company’s signature stepped hull, which delivers a smooth, dry ride with unmatched performance. With 3 outboard motors to choose from–including Evinrude 200 up to Mercury 450R–the Poker Run is calling!

Specs & Features

  • Length: 40’
  • Beam: 11’1”
  • Motor: 3 outboards

Our Overall Review

We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:

4.6

Things we like:

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    The 4” hydraulically actuated helm sole.
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    Spacious
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    Good for scuba diving or big game fishing
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    Do Key West to the Bahamas in no time
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Things we don't like:

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    The base model doesn’t include some of the best amenities you’re going to want, like bow thruster
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Where to buy:

Intrepid 409 Valor


With clever surprises and practical functionality everywhere you look, the Regal 33 Express Cruiser is your have-it-all cabin cruiser whether it’s a day at the beach or a weekend on the water. This is an extremely easy boat to handle, maintain and cruise in.

The twin Yamaha outboards will power your escape to tranquility in haste. This cruiser handles phenomenally with the Yamaha electronics and instruments that almost do the driving for you, including joystick and bow thruster for easy docking.

Designed with versatility in mind, the single level cockpit sole is roomy and offers plenty of space to stretch out, relax, and socialize. Elevate your entertaining game by adding a grill and a refrigerator to the refreshment center.

And enjoy the comforts and customization of the UltraLounge—a multi-position seat that lets you face forward while cruising, then face aft to enjoy the view, or lay flat to soak up the sun.
The UltraLounge also provides you with extra legroom (11”) with simply the push of a button.

The cabin below features luxurious and accommodating amenities that are sure to please the whole crew. Thanks to the large hull-side windows, an abundance of natural light floods the cabin during the day. You’ll also find a salon with a settee and a galley as well as a full head with shower.

Once the fun in the sun is over, you can convert the settee into a queen-sized berth or enjoy a good night’s sleep from the king-sized berth—the only boat in its class to feature one.

You can also convert the king-sized berth into two full twin beds for versatility.

Specs & Features

  • Length: 33’11”
  • Beam: 10’4”
  • Dry weight: 12,650lbs
  • Capacity: Yacht certified

Our Overall Review

We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:

4.6

Things we like:

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    The king-sized berth
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    The versatile slide-away cockpit seating
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    The Yamaha propulsion and navigation system is both set up brilliantly and functions phenomenally
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    Room for the whole family or two couples in a pinch
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    Can cruise right up onto the beach
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Things we don't like:

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    Couldn’t find anything
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Where to buy:

Regal 33 Express Cruiser


Classic Downeast lines paired with all the right features make the Sabre Salon Express 38 “a boat that boaters recognize.”

This pocket cruising yacht—ideal for a couple or a small family—boasts an open, elegant, and inviting salon which opens up to an equally spacious and comfortable cockpit, great for entertaining and al fresco dining.

The cabin below comes with a fully equipped galley, a lounge, a master berth, as well as a full head. Add plenty of stowage to this cruiser and summer voyage is both realistic and uncompromising.

The classic profile, thrilling performance, and low sound levels make the Sabre SE 38 an icon of nautically sensible design.

Specs & Features

  • Length: 41’9”
  • Beam: 13’4”
  • Dry weight: 21,000lbs
  • Capacity: Yacht certified
  • Motor: 2 inboards

Our Overall Review

We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:

4.6

Things we like:

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    Great performance
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    Classic cherry wood interiors
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    Comfortable
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    Joystick steering is standard
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    Good access to engine room for visual checks
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    Retractable hatch in bedroom opens up to salon to make the interior seem bigger
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    Great storage space
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Things we don't like:

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    Nothing!
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Where to buy:

Sabre Salon Express 38


Reimagining the balance of indoor and outdoor space, the Sundancer 320 is a perfect example of the innovative spirit, intentional quality, and versatility one has come to expect from Sea Ray.

This is smaller than most cabin cruisers on this list–it’s considered something of a bowrider cross-over–but it still provides a stateroom and kitchen and head plus an additional berth that you also see in the bigger models.

The star of this cabin cruiser is, without a doubt, the spacious bow sun lounge, which offers enough room for 3 people complete with cup holders and a stereo remote so you can enjoy your favorite tunes without having to leave the comforts of your sun pad.

The moveable lounge just behind the captain’s sofa will easily and comfortably host 8 guests. Add 3 in the front plus a few in the salon and this yacht certified, compact cruiser is an entertaining powerhouse.

Plus, a wet bar with optional grill and refrigerator in the deck lounge allows for effortless entertaining while the cabin below provides comfortable sleeping for 4.

Specs & Features

  • Length: 32’3”
  • Beam: 10’7”
  • Dry weight: 13,305lbs
  • Capacity: Yacht certified
  • Motor: 2 inboards

Our Overall Review

We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:

4.5

Things we like:

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    Spacious bow
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    Comfortable
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    Multiple social zones both on deck and in the cabin
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    Beautiful design
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    VesselView for real time diagnostics
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    Lounge at the bow too
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    Large hydraulic swim platform
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Things we don't like:

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    Long list of optionals you’re going to want to splurge for
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Where to buy:

Sea Ray Sundancer 320


Cruise in functional style aboard the Leader 33. A moderately sized cabin cruiser with surprising space and plush interiors, the Leader 33 is a good entry boat into touring.

Available in two versions: an Open version with an arch and a Sport Top version with an electrically opening hard top, the Leader 33 boasts a spacious and functional layout which makes relaxing and entertaining a breeze.

Long windows in the hull offer beautiful sea views along with plenty of natural light in the cabin below. Also, two galleys, two sleeping berths, and an expansive head with a separate shower stall make the Leader 33 the ideal boat for a weekend getaway.

Junneau is a well-established name and there are plenty of solid used options for this model. When you find one for sale at a dealer or marina, take it for a spin.

Specs & Features

  • Length: 34’8”
  • Dry weight: 10,829lbs
  • Capacity: Yacht certified

Our Overall Review

We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:

4.5

Things we like:

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    Roomy
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    A door in the salon offers privacy for the cabin—unique feature among a cabin cruiser this size
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    Sleek design
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    Plenty of headroom in the cabin
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    Lots of windows in the cabin
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Things we don't like:

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    Nothing!
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Where to buy:

Jeanneau Leader 33

Related Reviews

A Quick Guide to Cabin Cruisers 

They need a little more than just a cabin under the deck to be called a cabin cruiser. Think bowrider or runabout and expand outwards with a mind toward extending your daytrip so it potentially never ends. That entails more space and comfort like you get with your typical luxury yacht combined with performance associated with the bowriders.

The cabin cruisers we have on the list are designed with a maritime intelligence that incorporates deep and fundamental logic required to make recreational sailing as a lifestyle both safe and enjoyable. A model like the NC1095 Fly is a great example of a modern interpretation of a cabin cruiser that really embodies the maritime equivalent of a newer RV.

When deciding what vessel is right for you, figure out how much space you need, how long you’re going to be cruising and pay particular attention to how comfortable you feel navigating tighter waterways and docking. Smaller craft like the Chris-Craft 34 are easier to wrap your head around and if your needs and horizons are closer to home than this is a good vessel for cruising shorter overnight excursions and even navigating smaller waterways like river systems.

The bigger boats, like the Grand Banks 44, will appeal to longer voyages further out at sea. These are vessels that could even traverse the Atlantic–for the intrepid mariner–and have a great go of the Mediterranean.

While size will increase the challenges when navigating and docking (make sure to use boat fenders when docking), these modern cabin cruisers have been designed so well in order to make the pilot seem a steady, old hand at the helm.

Consider the need for bow thrusters, whether you want inboard motors or outboard motors (the latter tend to be cheaper and easier to maintain), air conditioning/heating, where you can get a boat slip and how readily available guest slips are for boats with the different beams (width).

These boats are still relatively easy to operate but they can go quite fast on the water. Remember to observe the customs and rules on the waves. Most importantly: enjoy.

Take a look at these videos that demonstrate some of the models on our list:

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is a Cabin Cruiser?

A cabin cruiser is a type of powerboat that typically ranges from 25 to 45 feet in length. Because they come with sleeping, cooking, and bathroom facilities they are a top choice for weekend trips but also manageable enough for quick day trips.

What are the best cabin cruiser brands?

These are some of the best cabin cruiser brands on the market today:

How much is a cabin cruiser boat?

Prices will vary depending on the size as well as the included amenities.

A cabin cruiser usually costs between U$100,000 to U$700,000. However, more sophisticated models, like the East Bay 44 can go for as much as U$1 million.

What is the difference between a cabin cruiser and a yacht?

Cabin cruisers are very similar to larger yachts. They can cruise long distances and they offer many facilities that help keep passengers comfortable during long haul trips, but unlike a large yacht, a cabin cruiser boat does not require a professional crew aboard.

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Laurel
Laurel

Love it! It would be fun to test drive each!

Torben Lonne
Member
Torben Lonne

Hi Jin

This is great feedback, and we’ll take it into account when updating our guides.

Jin
Jin

This is a great list. I keep coming back to them to discover more manufacturers and models. Is it possible, however, to add cost ranges to these models or generic $$$ cost brackets. The boat companies all like to hide the cost and not knowing the brands I am spending most of my time trying to figure out which one is the best value. You mentioned a range of $100k to $700k but I have yet to find the $100k model

Thomas H Welch
Thomas H Welch

What are the best “hardtop Express Cruisers in the 36′ LOA range with OB engines and a fully enclosed weatherproof helm/salon area? I would like a boat that can sleep six adults.

Bradley Axmith
Member
Bradley Axmith

Hey Keith. Thank you for your service. Some of the boat makers have military discounts like Crestliner (for fishing boats mainly: https://www.crestliner.com/specials/military-discount/), but talk to the guys at your local marina. I’ve found that they do reward service with a price cut sometimes. Check out these guys too: https://www.harborsidemarinesales.com/

keith thomas
keith thomas

Hello
Is there a disabled veteran discount?