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Cruisers Yachts

By Jeff Hemmel | July 2023

Learn more about Cruisers Yachts by viewing our extensive collection of boat tests, reviews and other related content. Boating-exclusive content is produced by Boating Editors, expert, longtime boating enthusiasts with extensive knowledge of the boating industry. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or just research the brand, our content is here to help.

The roots of Cruisers Yachts date back to 1904 and the Thompson Bros. Boat Manufacturing Company. Builders of iconic lapstrake boats, by the 1950s a second generation of the Thompson family would begin building outboard-powered, wood lapstrake cabin cruisers under the Cruisers Inc. name. Cruisers saw multiple owners over the ensuing decades, before developing the first of their modern yacht lineup, the 48 Cantius , in 2011. Defined by its premium comfort and livability, the Cantius series would ultimately expand to boats from 34’ – 60’ . The GLS line, designed with an eye toward excitement and performance, would be added in 2019 and do likewise, and now includes models from 34’ – 50’ . In 2021, MarineMax acquired the company to add premium, American-built yachts to its portfolio. Today, Cruisers Yachts continues to be built in the brand’s original home state of Wisconsin by a knowledgeable workforce, some of whom are fourth-generation boatbuilders.

On this page:

Quick overview.

• Types of Boats
• Boat Tests & Reviews

Cruisers Yachts are divided into two distinct series, the luxurious and spacious 34’ – 60’ Cantius lineup and the sporty and aggressive 34’ – 50’ GLS models.

Types of Cruisers Yachts

Cruisers Yachts produces two distinct lines, Cantius express cruisers and flybridge model from 34’ – 60’ and GLS dayboats from 34’ – 50’.

• A mix of inboard , sterndrive and outboard-powered express cruisers from 39’ – 60’, the Cantius series includes the 60 Cantius , 60 Fly , 50 Cantius , 46 Cantius , 42 Cantius and 39 Express Coupe .
• Upper salons equipped with large windows for open feel, retractable sunroof, comfortable seating and access to helm, galley and dinette or, on larger models, formal dining area.
• Modern, spacious galleys feature single or dual sinks, microwave/convection oven, flatscreen TV and refrigerator/freezer.
• Cockpits include convertible seating, removable tables, available grille , refrigerator and bar stools.
• Below-deck accommodations include both queen-berth Master and king-berth VIP staterooms , with private head compartments. Larger models offer a third stateroom.
• Open-air bow lounges offer reclining sun lounges , wood table and cupholders.
• 60 Flybridge adds piloting station along with open-air entertainment area with expansive views, an overhead hardtop, and a built-in grill and wet bar.
• 39 EC features walk around access to bow deck ; relaxing aft deck; galley with sink, fridge, electric stovetop and microwave/convention oven; master stateroom with double-berth, portside settee, spacious head compartment; lower salon with convertible dinette.
• Power options, depending on model, include Volvo Penta gas or diesel inboard engines , Volvo Penta gas or diesel IPS , Volvo Penta or MerCruiser gasoline sterndrives , and MerCruiser gasoline outboards .
• Ideal for cruising , overnighting , and entertaining .
• A collection of both outboard and sterndrive-powered dayboats from 34’ – 50’, GLS models include the 50 GLS , 42 GLS OB , 42 GLS I/O , 38 GLS OB , 38 GLS I/O , 34 GLS OB , and 34 GLS I/O .
• Well-equipped helms include twin-to-triple Simrad touchscreen displays , joystick piloting control, and modern aesthetics. Larger models offer double-wide companion chairs with storage or an optional ice-maker below.
• Cockpit amenities include fold-down bulwarks/beach doors for convenient water access , increased cockpit space, and an open feel.
• Cockpit galleys feature sink, refrigerator, storage, available grill and TV options, and raised wet bar with swivel bar stools.
• Forward and aft staterooms , along with convertible dinettes, and head compartments with sink, toilet and standing shower .
• Bow seating accessed via port walk-thru, converts to large sunpad with available foredeck shade.
• Available power options include triple Mercury Verado 600 s on the flagship 50 GLS, and the choice of either gas or diesel sterndrive pairings from both Volvo Penta and Mercury Marine , or Mercury outboards , on remaining models, all with joystick piloting.

Boat Tests & Reviews

As the most trusted source of boating information on the internet, Boating Magazine has produced in-depth reviews of numerous Cruisers Yachts. These tests are conducted by an expert staff made up of true boating enthusiasts. Tests and reviews include not only performance testing and passenger amenities , but also dig deep into a boat’s construction, handling, and overall safety .

More Cruisers Yachts Boat Tests >>

Cruisers Yachts Videos

Boating Magazine has produced a variety of reviews of Cruisers Yachts. Video adds another element to any boat review, allowing viewers to see and experience a boat’s features firsthand. Video reviews are hosted by Boating’s same expert editorial staff , enthusiastic boaters themselves who know what to look for in a boat…and how it will improve a viewer’s boating experience.

Cruisers Yachts Boat Videos

Boating Spotlight: Cruisers Yachts 50 GLS

Boating Spotlight: Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS

Faqs about cruisers yachts.

Find the answers to frequently asked questions about Cruisers Yachts, including the types of boats Cruisers makes, where they’re produced and how to find a Cruisers Yachts boat that fits your needs and lifestyle.

Cruisers Yachts offerings are divided into the Cantius and GLS series. Cantius models are known for their exceptional interior volume and include the 60 Fly , 60 Cantius , 50 Cantius , 46 Cantius , 42 Cantius, and 39 EC . GLS models target the midrange, luxury yacht market with fast, agile models including the 50 GLS , 42 GLS OB , 42 GLS I/O , 38 GLS OB , 38 GLS I/O , 34 GLS OB , and 34 GLS I/O .

Cruisers Yachts are built in Pulaski, Wisconsin.

Cruisers Yachts use a variety of engines depending on the application, including Volvo Penta Inboards , Volvo Penta’s Inboard Performance System (IPS), MerCruiser and Volvo Penta sterndrives , and Mercury Marine outboard motors .

For more information on Cruisers Yachts warranty, visit cruisersyachts.com .

Like any boat, basic maintenance, including washing and waxing the fiberglass hull, keeping compartments clean and dry, and cleaning and using protectant on vinyl surfaces will keep a Cruisers Yacht looking and performing like new for years to come. Boats left in the water should have hulls cleaned yearly to remove marine growth; anti-fouling paint on submerged areas of the hull should also be applied. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including yearly engine service, to ensure reliable, safe operation. Factory-recommended service should be performed at an authorized Cruisers Yachts dealer.

All models produced by Cruisers Yachts can be used for family outings and overnights .

Cantius models stand out for their emphasis on comfort and space , and include multiple cabins, full-featured head compartments, and galley amenities including sinks, prep space, multiple cooking appliances, and refrigerators.

Though GLS models place more of an emphasis on performance, they also include multiple cabin options , head compartments and galleys, all of which combine for comfortable days and nights on the water with family or friends.

MarineMax, one of the largest and most recognizable retailers in the marine industry, acquired Cruisers Yachts in 2021 to fill a gap in their existing brand lineup. Cruisers Yachts will maintain its existing dealer network and be offered in select MarineMax locations.

Cruisers Yachts are available in the United States, Canada, and multiple international locations. Find your nearest Cruisers Yachts dealer here . 

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Introducing an All-New Flybridge Series

The new Flybridge series will include three new yachts, starting with the launch of the 55 FLY. This is all a result of an extraordinary fusion of technology and nature. These yachts will have a sleek, futuristic exterior reminiscent of a spaceship gliding on the water and boast clean styling lines inspired by marine predators. This extraordinary vessel, designed from the keel up, features an interior created in collaboration with renowned superyacht designer Luiz Debasto of Debasto Designs.

The design theme, "Back to Nature in a Tech World," blends organic shapes in earth and ocean tones, complemented with natural fibers. The result is a serene, inviting living space flooded with natural light.

Josh Delforge, VP of Operations and Engineering, comments, "We set out to create a 'Super Fly' – a yacht that exceeds all expectations of Cruisers flybridges of the past. Our design team focused on delivering the best-in-class water interaction, a superior flybridge entertaining space, and a fresh interior design direction, all wrapped in an updated evolution of the Cantius DNA. We take immense pride in building these amazing new vessels in our facilities in Wisconsin."

This Flybridge series promises to be more than a yacht; it's a modern marine engineering masterpiece designed for yachting enthusiasts who demand the very best. With its combination of sleek, innnovative design and unmatched features, it promises to be a game-changer in the luxury yachting world.

• The future of yachting has arrived for Cruisers Yachts with this new series — more details are to come on the 55 FLY with the official launch in 2024 and another model following shortly after in 2025.

Introducing

An All-New Flybridge Series

Preliminary Specifications

Request More Information

Fill out the form below to connect with a Cruisers Yachts specialist and access our downloadable brochures.

• Articles and Guides

16 Best Cabin Cruiser Boat Brands With Range That Can Plane

2nd nov 2023 by lenny rudow.

There are many different types of boats with cabins , so the term “cabin cruisers” is a bit of a catch-all, but if you’re interested in finding a powerboat with a cabin that can run for long distances at and above planing speeds, the cabin cruiser moniker fits. There’s a huge range of boats fitting into this category, but which are the best? What manufacturers build the best small cabin cruiser boats , and at the opposite end of the spectrum, the best luxury cabin cruiser boats? Who makes the best cabin cruiser boats for families? We’ll answer these questions, and more.

Best Small Cabin Cruiser Boats

Smaller boats are less expensive than larger ones, and thus there are a lot of them out there. Still, to qualify for this category, a boat must have enough room and appointments to arguably be among the best overnight cabin cruisers because if you can’t sleep aboard, you’ll miss out on half the fun. That means boats under the 25-foot mark don’t make the cut, while any boat over 30 feet can’t really be called “small”. Within the five-foot range in between, these are the manufacturers who build stand-out boats.

Crownline boats offers three models that fit into the small cabin cruiser category, the 270 CR, 280 CRX, and 294 CR. Cabins are designed around convertibility, with a forward U-shaped settee that can change into a dinette or an extended V-berth. The galleys are fully outfitted for cruising, too, and even the smallest model includes a stove-top, refrigerator, microwave oven, sink, and cabinetry.

Crownline 294 CR, Crownline photo.

Ranger Tugs

Ranger Tugs builds three models that fall into the small cabin cruiser category, the R-23 (a 28’5” long, 8’6” wide boat), the R25 Northwest Edition, and the R25 Luxury Edition (which share the same dimensions). The main differences between these models is in how they’re outfitted; however, all share the same essential layout with a forward lower V-berth, an enclosed head compartment, a small galley behind the helm, and a dinette to port with a second mini-berth underneath of it. 

Ranger Tugs R-25, Ranger Tugs photo.

Regal has been building boats going all the way back to 1969. Today, their extensive lineup includes a 26 Express, 26 XO, and 28 Express, which all will earn votes for best small cabin cruiser boats. (They also have a 24’5” model cuddy-cabin boat suitable for weekending, which is a little small but worthy of noting). These boats are commonly termed “mid-cabin” cruisers, because they have an elevated cockpit with a small cabin just forward of the powerplant. Although everything may be a bit miniaturized as compared to larger cabin cruisers, they’re complete with saloons that convert to berths, enclosed private head compartments, and galleys.

Regal 26 Express, Regal photo. 

Best Cabin Cruiser Boats for Beginners

New boaters hunting for the best cabin cruiser boats for beginners will probably be interested in finding a boat that’s relatively simple operate, easy to maintain, and doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. These three top choices fit the bill for beginners.

Defiance Boats

Defiance mostly builds fishing boats; however, they have one model which works for beginner cruisers and a second one that might be termed a “micro-cruiser.” The 250 San Juan has an extended pilothouse with a V-berth forward, a dinette (which converts into a second berth) and small galley. The boat is small, simple, has an open aft cockpit, and will be incredibly easy to maintain as compared to boats with carpeting and lots of upholstery. The 220 San Juan is worth a mention despite its diminutive size, because it has the same cabin features but a smaller cockpit.

Guadalupe 250 San Juan, Defiance Boats photo. 

The name Jeanneau may bring sailboats to mind, but this company also builds a wide range of powerboats. And among them, the NC Weekender series will prove a great choice for beginner cruisers. Ranging from 24’5” all the way up to a 41-footer (though the upper end of that range will be a bit much for beginners), the NC Weekenders have fully enclosed cabins with an open cockpit aft, swim platforms, dinettes, and sleeping accommodations for at least four people.

Jeanneau NC 895, Jeanneau photo.

Katanacraft

How do you radically reduce maintenance on a cabin cruiser? Build it out of aluminum. Katanacraft boats are welded with 0.250” thick bottoms and 0.160” sides, so they’re as rugged as they come—no waxing, rubbing, or buffing needed. This builder focuses on fishing boats, and their Monsoon 250 and Monsoon 280 are intended for making big catches, but they also have full cabins with V-berths and heads. The galley with dinette is one option you’ll need to get for cruising, and if you plan to head out in chilly conditions there are also options for diesel heaters and full Alaskan bulkheads.

Katanacraft official website

Monsoon 250, Katanacraft photo. 

Best Cabin Cruiser Boats for Families

What makes a cabin cruiser great for families? In truth, all boats are great for family time and your spouse and kids are bound to love whichever you choose. Each of these brands, however, do have extra advantages for the whole crew.

Beneteau has a huge range of both sail and powerboats, but for a cruising family, two offerings in the Flyer series, the 29’10” Flyer 9 SUNdeck and the 34’10” Flyer 10, have an unusual trick up their sleeves. These boats can be equipped with a tow arch to pull water skis and wakeboards. What kids won’t find that an attractive addition to a boat that has a full cabin with all the amenities needed for cruising? None of them!

Beneteau Flyer 9 SUNdeck, Beneteau photo.

Boston Whaler

Boston Whaler builds a model line called the Conquest, which includes the 285, 325, and 405. All offer full cabins with all the comforts of home. So, what makes these earn a spot among the best cabin cruiser boats for families? Boston Whalers are built with a fiberglass-foam-fiberglass sandwich construction which makes them completely unsinkable. And when your loved ones are all aboard, that trait alone delivers so much peace of mind that there’s no doubt Boston Whaler belongs in this roundup.

Boston Whaler 325 Conquest, Boston Whaler photo. 

Sea Ray is one of the most popular recreational boat builders on the planet, and all of the models in their Sundancer series (ranging from 32’10” to 37’8”) are ideal for family boating. Sea Ray takes a bit of a different approach than most with their modern Sundancer line, including bow cockpit seating above the cabin. Food prep areas shift to the topsides to give cabin space a boost. This means you enjoy expanded outdoor areas you and your kids can enjoy, without giving up topnotch luxury levels and spacious overnighting abilities inside.

Sea Ray Sundancer 370, Sea Ray photo.  

Best Cabin Cruiser Fishing Boats

Maybe you can drop a line from any old cabin cruiser, but to truly rate among the best cabin cruiser fishing boats the cockpit and accessories have to be designed specifically for angling. Fortunately, there are plenty of eminently fishable cabin cruisers on the water.

Yes, Boston Whaler has already appeared in this roundup, but their boats unquestionably rate a spot in the best cabin cruiser fishing boats section, as well. All of their models come ready to fish right out of the box and along with all the standard-issue armaments, Whalers also feature surprisingly fast cruising speeds (usually in the mid-30-mph range or above) along with extended ranges that make offshore fishing a possibility.

Boston Whaler Conquest 405, Boston Whaler photo.  

Grady-White

Grady-White boats are all designed for serious anglers from their smallest to their largest. The models that will be of interest to cruisers include the Express Cabin 330 and 370, the Marlin 300, and the 456 Canyon—which may be considered a center console but is so large it has a full cabin with all the comforts of home inside the console. All of these boats have everything you’ll need for serious angling, too, ranging from livewells to fishboxes to rod holders.

Grady-White Express 370, Grady White photo. 

Mikelson Yachts

Though the level of expense goes far beyond most of the other boats we’ve talked about here, Mikelson Yachts builds a series of cruising yachts ranging from their 43 to their 75 that are well equipped for fishing. These take luxury to the next level, with multiple private staterooms, full saloons, and flying bridges. However, they also have open aft cockpits designed and outfitted for offshore fishing.

Mikelson 75, Mikelson Yachts photo.  

Best Luxury Cabin Cruisers

What separates a luxury cabin cruiser from a yacht? There’s no dictionary delineation we know of, and each of the cabin cruiser brands we look at here could easily be called a yacht. If you’re ready to experience the ultimate in floating luxury, give these top picks a look.

Cruisers Yachts

Cruisers Yachts redefined the cabin cruiser with its Cantius series decades ago, and this lineup continues to be very popular among boaters who enjoy cruising in complete comfort. The Cantius ranges from 42 to 60 feet, all with trademark features like massive saloon and hull-side windows, retractable sunroofs (except on flybridge models), full-beam staterooms, cedar-lined closets, and bow lounges.

Cruiser Yachts 42 Cantius, Cruiser Yachts photo. 

Sabre Yachts

The Sabre lineup ranges from 38 to 58, all with topnotch fit, finish, upholstery, and woodwork throughout. Where these boats separate themselves from the crowd, however, is their traditional Downeast designs. Built in Maine with the classic look of a lobster boat, Sabres draw the eye in a way few cabin cruisers can match.

Sabre Salon Express 48, Sabre photo. 

Tiara Yachts builds a mix of dayboats and cruisers from 34’9” to 60’3”, and the entire lineup is well known for being infused with luxury. They have some rather spectacular features, as well, including huge loungers and sofas that can spin 360-degrees, saloons surrounded entirely by windows, and full-beam staterooms naturally lighted by huge hull-side windows.

Tiara C39 Coupe, Tiara Yachts photo. 

Best Aft Cabin Cruisers

To some it may seem strange to focus on the best aft cabin cruiser boats, because in many markets this type of boat has more or less disappeared. In fact, most major American boat builders ceased producing aft cabin cruisers a decade or more ago. However, you’ll find them on the used boat market and there are a few European builders who still manufacture them.

UK boatbuilder Hardy Motor Yachts offers a range of aft cabin cruisers culminating with the 65DS, one of the largest aft cabin cruisers around. As expected these boats take advantage of their extra interior territory by adding private staterooms, while the area above is utilized in the form of an elevated cockpit. Note that the 65DS won for Best Passagemaker in the 2019 Motorboating & Yachting awards.

Hardy 42H, Hardy Marine photo.

A Norwegian builder, Marex, has in its lineup the 320 Aft Cabin, which houses a substantial aft cabin below a sunpad, aft behind the helm deck. Utilizing the space in this fashion, the 320 has two separate private staterooms, a saloon, and a fully enclosed head with shower, all packaged inside of a 32’5” LOA. Note that on its introduction in 2013, the 320 Aft Cabin won multiple awards including Motorboat of the Year, European Yacht of the Year, Best Boat over 25 Feet at the Oslo International Boat Show, and Adriatic Boat of the Year.

Marex 320 Aft Cabin Cruiser, Marex Boats photo.  

So, are you ready to run right out and buy one of these best cabin cruiser boats? Maybe, but probably not so fast. Buying a boat is a long process that requires lots of careful thought, research, and legwork. At least now, however, you have some top prospects to choose from.

Written By: Lenny Rudow

With over three decades of experience in marine journalism, Lenny Rudow has contributed to dozens of boating and fishing publications and websites. Rudow lives in Annapolis, Maryland, and is currently Angler in Chief at Rudow’s FishTalk ; he is a past president of Boating Writers International (BWI), a graduate of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design, and has won numerous BWI and OWAA writing awards.

More from: Lenny Rudow

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Cabin Cruiser Yachts vs. Motor Yachts – What’s the Difference?

Updated: August 28, 2024

If you’re totally new to the world of yachting , you might be only vaguely aware of the different types of yachts available. We wouldn’t blame you. There’s a lot of overlap between these categories. That can make them seem just a bit arbitrary to the casual or novice boater. However, if you have some idea of what you desire out of your yachting experience, you will want to know the key distinctions between these types of vessels. So, you can make the choice that suits your wants. Here are a couple of major differences between cruiser yachts vs. motor yachts.

*Note*: you’ll likely find boats with different specifications than what you see below that would still be classified as either of these kinds of yachts. That said, we still tried to keep this as general as we could for your convenience. If you have any questions, ask the people who have all the answers at The Advantaged Yacht Charters .

Knot Speed: What does it Mean?

Cruiser yachts are like the sports cars of the boating world. It’s not just the sleek and streamlined shapes or the at-times bold color choices: it’s also how fast they can go. Many cruisers can reach high speeds in the water, reaching 30 knots or even more. The smaller size and angular designs make them more hydrodynamic, which is perfect for adrenaline junkies. If your idea of an excursion is a high-seas adventure, cruiser yachts might be your style.

Of course, for many people, speed isn’t everything. I’m talking about people who picture being on the open seas as a way to kick back and relax, now that they are miles away from the pressures they find on land. Cruiser yachts tend to prioritize chilling out over cutting loose, so they tend to reach the relatively milder high speed of 20 knots. Ironically, this means that motor yachts may be more ideal for “cruising” than the actual cruisers!

How Much Room is there on a Yacht? 

Another reason that motor yachts can’t go as fast as other kinds of yachts is also a major part of their appeal: they’re significantly larger. These kinds of boats tend to come with multiple heads and staterooms, but more space also means more amenities. You might find bars, spaces for eating, and lounging areas aboard a motor yacht. Do you remember when we mentioned earlier that cruiser yachts are like sports cars? It wouldn’t be too far off to say that motor yachts are the boating equivalent of stretch limos.

Cruiser yachts typically have less room for such features and fewer cabins. Still, what it lacks on the inside is made up for by the emphasis on what is outside; you may find more outdoor space on a cruiser, so you can enjoy that fresh sea air. Motor yachts may be a better vessel for a fancy dinner party. But, the cruiser yacht may be better suited for those who prefer bringing a cooler, grilling up, and casting out a fishing line with a few buds.

Contact The Advantaged Yacht Charter

Of course, no one type of boat is inherently better than the other. It’s all subjective and depends on your own taste and interests. This means that in the debate over cruiser yachts vs. motor yachts, there is only one clear-cut winner: you. The Advantaged Yacht Charter s can help you make that decision and get the sailing experience you’ll love most. Check out our selection of cruiser yachts and motor yachts , and take a look at our many other options as well.

Yacht vs Cruise Ship: Key Differences Explained

Many travelers look at luxury yacht rentals and cruise ships when planning a vacation at sea. But there are some major distinctions between these two options. Understanding the key differences can help you choose the best one to suit your needs and expectations.

Size and Capacity

The most obvious difference is size and guest capacity. Cruise ships are massive, housing 2000-6000 passengers.

Even small ships carry 600+ people. In contrast, chartered yachts max out around 12 guests, with typical capacities of 6-10. The intimate scale ensures an exclusive escape.

Itineraries and Flexibility

Cruises sail along fixed routes and strict schedules, whereas yacht charters offer total itinerary flexibility. Craft your own custom route with a captain. Spend more time in spots you love and bypass others. The only fixed elements are your start/end ports.

Onboard Experience

The onboard ambiance varies dramatically between the two. Cruise ships feel like floating cities with crowds everywhere. You’ll share amenities with thousands of fellow passengers. Chartered yachts provide a private, peaceful retreat catered to you. No queues or sharing.

Activities and Entertainment

Both offer plenty of amenities, but the vibe is different. Cruises offer fun activities like casinos and shows, while yachts provide relaxation and adventures like snorkeling and fishing. The choice depends on your interests.

Service and Cuisine

With thousands of guests, cruise staff and dining cannot provide truly personalized service. You get more staff interaction on a yacht, including a captain dedicated to your charter. Included in the experience is fine dining with customized menus and premium alcohol.

For an exclusive getaway on your terms, a private yacht charter reigns supreme. But mass market cruises suit travelers who enjoy crowds and scripted entertainment. Evaluate your priorities to choose the best seafaring vacation.

Booking and Costs

Booking a cruise is relatively simple through major cruise lines or agencies, while yacht charters require researching reputable brokers and charter companies, of which there are many. Cruise fares per person are lower, but a fully crewed yacht divided among guests can still be competitive. Keep costs variable by booking a bareboat yacht charter.

Destinations and Departure Ports

Cruise ships certainly provide a wide variety of itineraries, but their large size limits them to major cruise ports. Yachts can access small coves, secluded islands, and exotic locales that mega-ships can’t reach. Many more departure ports are accessible for yacht charters too.

Onboard Accommodations

Staterooms on a cruise provide basic comfort, often with an ocean view. Yachts feature lavish staterooms and master suites with hotel-style amenities. You’ll get complete privacy, often with en-suite bathrooms. Some large charter yachts rival small boutique hotels in luxury. .

Health and Safety

Mass gatherings on cruises can enable the rapid spread of illnesses like COVID or norovirus. Yachts provide isolation from crowds and allow immunocompromised guests to vacation safely. Strict protocols keep private yachts disinfected, and both options mandate safety drills and procedures.

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Introducing the Exciting New Planing Cruiser, the First 30

This innovative model promises to give all sailors the thrill of planing while delivering top-level performance. 

Updating a Legacy

The First 30 follows in the footsteps of the popular model launched in 1977 , which shaped the history of BENETEAU. The brand worked with Seascape for this new version, assembling a team of world-class designers and engineers: Samuel Manuard for the naval architecture and Lorenzo Argento for the design. This bold new project demonstrates BENETEAU’s commitment to innovation and is particularly meaningful as the brand celebrates its 140th anniversary . 

Performance and Comfort: Safe, Smooth Sailing

The First 30 is 10.33 metres long and has a displacement of 3,150 kg, meaning that even small crews can enjoy quick easy planing . 

Planing is that magical moment when, at full speed, your yacht’s hull lifts and is in limited contact with the water, minimising friction and creating a smooth, gliding sensation. You feel the thrill of the boat accelerating, and every manoeuvre is smoother and more responsive. It is this adrenalin rush that promises unique unforgettable moments at sea!  A clear cockpit and simple rigging make navigation fun and intuitive, even at high speeds. Additional options for racers optimise performance. Designed for effortless sailing, the First 30 is perfect for cruising and for racing. By choosing the layout – cruising or racing – it can be perfectly matched to the needs of each skipper. The cruising version features large winches and ergonomic controls to simplify handling, while the racing version includes a mainsail traveller for more accurate trimming.

A Practical, User-Friendly Interior for Worry-Free Cruising

Below deck, the boat has a capacity of 4 people divided between two cabins. The First 30 is the perfect boat for cruising with family or friends. Cruising is truly enjoyable, with a comfortable saloon, fully-fitted galley and smart storage spaces. 

With the Premium Pack option, you have additional features and the interior is more stylish with top-quality upholstery, extra lounge backrests, a chopping board, choice of colours and materials, and mood lighting.

With the new First 30 , BENETEAU once again proves its ability to push back the boundaries of innovation while remaining true to its heritage. Designed to become a true benchmark, the First 30 will make its world premiere at the Düsseldorf 2025 boat show.

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Published on 10.09.2024

• Sailing yacht

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