Buying a used cruiser presents a wealth of options and is the perfect yacht for those looking to spend time onboard.
A cruiser is more about how it works, than how it looks, with a focus on delivering a great live-aboard experience for friends and family. Set over a single level, decks are accessible and useable, leading on to the main living area. With little or no steps across the yacht its perfect for those with children or the less agile.
This single deck level design is realised in various styles from sharp modernism to more conservative or understated profiles, but they will always have that single-level, easy-living design.
Whereas other yacht types are fixated on size, cruiser yachts remain happy to in the owner-operated sector at around 10m - 15m.
Look out for terms such as Coupe, Sedan and Wheelhouse to describe yachts that will adhere to the cruiser ethic. The latter wheelhouse variant is offered in solid commercial-like styles, with Scandinavian built-examples offering superb performance and decks.
The aft cabin cruiser, so popular through the 1970s, 80s and 90s, has slowly died out but remains a great used boat buying option. The aft cabin design creates a large, private owner’s cabin, leaving the forward accommodation to guests. The aft cabin usually requires a slightly raised deck above, but does not increase air draft.
Most of these yacht will be shaft drive, offering performance that ranges from slow displacement to moderate planing speeds. The exception are the fast Scandinavian wheelhouse models that deliver incredible handling via sterndrives.
Check out the recent award-winning and finalist Cruisers and models.
Take control of your cruiser boat purchase with our expert guides & advice.