TOP 5 CRUISERS
8/29/2007 2:08:12 PM by Jacques Lerner
Loading a cooler filled with food and drink aboard and packing a cruiser cockpit with family and friends is one of the best ways to spend free time. Whether you prefer fast speeds or slow cruising or a combination of boat. Whether you opt for lots of laughter and chatter or just lazing on a sunpad while the captain heads where he will, it’s impossible not to have a good time onboard a cruiser. The following boats highlight notable models for 2008.
The new Formula 350 Sun Sport takes the concept of a pocket yacht and turns it into a pocket rocket. Designed by John Adams for the 2008 model line-up, the 350 SS features all the urbane styling, superboat-quality performance and true offshore capability one associates with Formula powerboats and molds it into a day-boat size. The high-tech helm features Livorsi gauges in stainless steel-rimmed instrument pods to complement the brushed metallic and burl wood steering wheel and matching dash panels for a sportscar-like ambience. The exemplary fit and finish is apparent starting in the cockpit, which offers a U-shaped aft lounge and table that quickly converts into a sunpad, all made of PreFixx-treated transportation-grade upholstery over DriFast foam, allowing water to drain freely.
There is more down below than one might expect. The well-laid-out cabin features a full double berth with Sensus memory foam mattress aft, as well as an optional 15-inch flatscreen television. The galley boasts Corian countertops, a stainless steel sink, fridge, microwave and deep-cherry finish cabinets among other details. For more information, visit FormulaBoats.com.
The new Four Winns 338 Vista is a head-turner. The chic, sporty exterior lines are perfectly complemented by the sophistication found on deck and down below. The cockpit is at once practical and attractive. Seating options include a duel helm seat with flip-up bolsters, a curved lounge to port and U-shaped stern seating with fill-in cushion to become a sunpad. The removable table allows for convenient al fresco meals and has its own exclusive handy storage space.
Captains will be thrilled with the helm, in which the center panel is completely set aside for optional electronics. Charcoal accents and polished stainless steel bezels lend character to the Faria gauges. The charm continues down below with an island berth forward. The galley features cherry joinery, a solid surface countertop with integrated sink, a microwave, refrigerator, two-burner electric stove and enough room for creating the perfect meal. The dinette is adjacent to the galley. The aft settee and table convert into a double berth. For more information, visit FourWinns.com.
There are many things that can be said about the new Glastron GT 249 cruiser, but the one that will catch everyone’s attention is the exceedingly modest price: under $45,000. This 24-foot, twin-cabin cruiser gives great value to your boating dollar in the form of fore and aft cabins with four windows for maximum ventilation and an airy feel below. The galley comes complete with Cherrywood cabinetry, a faux-granite countertop, sink, alcohol stove and ice box.
Upscale cabin upholstery is an attractive combination of deluxe fabrics and durable leatherette. The head features a fiberglass shower, roomy enough to enjoy a good shower after a long day out in the sun. On deck, the single level cockpit boasts plenty of seating in the form of a comfortable bucket helm seat, L-shaped passenger seat and rear-facing aft bench, perfect for sunning. Portside seating rapidly folds down to become a convenient sunlounge or overnight sleeper, bringing the sleeping total to six. Standard features include a Jensen player, handy tilt steering wheel, an 18-gallon water system and a color-coordinated Sunbrella Bimini top. For more information, visit Glastron.com.
The Larson Cabrio 370 truly earns the name Sport Cruiser. This model takes full advantage of onboard space to offer all the amenities one would expect of a cruiser in this range. Yet it remains as nimble as smaller, narrower models, with no sacrifice of performance or handling, even in a healthy chop. The V-drive inboard powerplant has an impressive 249-mile range when cruising at a spirited 28.3 knots.
The onboard amenities list is sure to please with dual air conditioning units — one forward, one aft — and reverse heat in the aft unit. The spacious galley features a full-size fridge and two-burner electric cooktop, cherry cabinetry and matching dinette table. The master is based on a full-size berth with plenty of storage space and a private entry to the head with standup shower. When not being entertained by simply being on the water, the owner and guests can pass the time watching DVDs on either of the two 15-inch flatscreens or while listening to tunes on the stereo with CD and 150-channel Sirius Satellite Radio. For more information, visit Larson.com.
New for 2008, the Regal 3360 Windows Express now offers the company’s innovative FlexPlan layout alternatives and at no additional charge to the consumer. Buyers will now be able to opt to order a single-level cockpit with an L-shaped settee to port. This design is for those who want to hang with the captain when speeding along. At other times the multi-position backrest can be adjusted for handy aft seating. The other alternative is the traditional swivel helm seat and split-level cockpit forward seating area design that is popular for entertaining and al fresco meals.
Both designs feature a handy refreshment center with sink, pressurized water and storage, along with an optional refrigerator or icemaker for convenient outdoor living. The 3360 WE features elegant exterior styling and a capable FasTrac hull that rides like it’s on rails even at speeds in the high 40s. Large windows in the cabin allow for plenty of natural light down below. The interior is cherry with LeatherCrest upholstery. A queen-size berth allows for comfortable nights aboard. For more information, visit RegalBoats.com.
BOAT BUY
Once you’ve decided upon your dream boat, the work has only begun. Yes, you can go to a conventional bank for a boat loan, but it may take longer. The quickest way to get out on the water and with a financing package you can live with is to go to a boat finance specialist. The following are seasoned marine loan professionals we highly recommend:
KeyBank
Handles new or pre-owned boat financing, as well as those looking to refinance an existing boat loan. Their Key Recreation Lending division handles multi-million yacht loans as well as specialized financing plans with annual, bi-annual and other payment plans. For more information, call 888.539.1234 or visit KeyBank.com.
BoatUS Finance
Loans from $25,000 and up, nationwide. New loan terms with down payments as low as 10 percent and terms up to 15-20 years. Refinancing can be arranged at similar rates and terms. For more information, call 800.365.5636 or visit BoatUS.com/BoatLoans.
Excel Credit
Boat and yacht loans from $25,000 to $10 million. No Doc Stated Income/Low Doc loans. Refinancing begins at $25,000. Loans up to 20 years. Also offers Extended Boat and Yacht Warranty Services. For more information, call 800.337.7774 or visit ExcelCredit.com.
Essex Credit
Online application and instant credit decisions available. Some of the longest terms in the industry — up to 30 years. Payments can be delayed for up to 90 days. Variable and adjustable rates available. Low monthly payments. Boat loans in all 50 states. For more information, call 866.377.3948 or visit EssexCredit.com.
eBoatLoans
eBoatLoans prides itself on “Lending for the Good Life” and that’s exactly what they do. From boat loans, yacht financing, marine lending and vessel refinancing, they’ve got you covered no matter what your nautical needs. A totally online lending service, eBoatLoans is as easy as 1-2-3 and available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For more information, visit eBoatLoans.com.