The Pros and Cons of Cruisers

Engineered and outfitted for next-level day-trips and weekend adventures, cruisers are often looked at as an upgrade from smaller powerboats, and a mid-stage between casual boating recreation and more serious boating life. But with more bells and whistles comes some tradeoffs. Here’s a rundown of the best things about cruiser boats, and the less desirable things you’ll encounter if you buy a cruiser.

Cruisers can be a super-fun distance boat for medium-sized adventures, but be sure it’s the right fit for your family.

Cruiser boats are comfortable, versatile boats well-suited for overnight adventure.

Creature comforts. Offering protection from the elements, and covered shelter that includes beds, a galley, toilet and a shower, lounge space, and even television and air conditioning, cruisers really can provide most things you’d want and everything you need for a few days at sea.

More power. Since they’re designed to travel further distances, for longer, cruisers host larger fuel tanks (up to 500 gallons, on average), and are powered by multiple engines to offset the weight of the boat while still providing cruising speeds of up to 50 mph.

More distance. With all the comforts of home, a tank full of gas, and all the electronics to ensure safe and secure passage, cruisers have an incredible range to take you out of your usual waters and into newly charted territory. 

You can try out the yachting lifestyle for a reasonable price. With prices that average $275,000 – $300,000 when new, cruisers may be an affordable alternative to renting or buying a slightly larger yacht. A great entry into the yachting lifestyle, a cruiser provides all the amenities and some of the range a yacht can for a fraction of the price, especially when you buy a used cruiser. 

Their transitional size means cruiser boats have some downsides that are a direct result of their upsides.

Less communal space. More amenities for longer-term boating means there is less space dedicated to gathering, entertaining, and other group space. While a cruiser is set to accommodate at least two passengers comfortably, they’re not great for day trips with larger groups, or for more than their number of berths for an overnight trip.

Reduced-size personal space. Including yacht-like features is possible in a 30 foot cruiser, but you can expect smaller-sized heads, things like galley fridges, reduced headroom and tighter spaces all around until you get to 40 feet and up.

Lower fuel efficiency. Many people who buy a cruiser boat are upgrading from a lighter, smaller recreational boat. The heavier weight of a cruiser with all its creature comforts requires more engine power, and more gas to go the same speed as the boat you’re likely used to.

Docking can be expensive and complicated. Cruisers are usually kept in the water. This means you will likely incur slip fees.  Additionally, the limited access to the foredeck found on most cruisers can make docking a little challenging.

The boating possibilities are endless when you’re backed with the comfort and range a cruiser provides.

You’re not the only one contemplating buying a cruiser right now. 

When it comes down to it, if a cruiser is the right boat for you, the negatives will be far outweighed by the boating experience a cruiser is designed to provide. And cruisers are a popular boat type at Boats For Sale, with hundreds available at at time. Browse our cruiser inventory now and find a cruiser for sale near you.