Filmed during a blustery day at the Palm Beach International Boat Show 2022, this tour explores the compact cruiser’s liveaboard potential, cockpit functionality, and long-range capabilities suited for adventures like the Great Loop.
Ranger Tugs R-31 CB Key Facts
- LOA 10.62m
- Model Year 2022
- Cabins 2
- Max Speed 22 knots
- Status In Production
- Yacht Type Trawler Boat
- Use Type Cruising
Video Tour
On Deck
Starting at the swim platform, there’s a small storage compartment holding the propane tank for the stove and oven, and space for the dinghy gas can. The outboard is mounted right here, and you'll see three dinghy lifting system receptacles around the platform, including one beneath the roof in order for the dinghy to be pulled out of the water. A swim ladder is built in, making for easy water access.
The cockpit packs in impressive function for a 9.4m (31ft) boat. Protected by a hardtop with an enclosing track and three overhead hatches, this space can be shut in completely for cold or wet weather. It feels far bigger than its LOA. The table here is removable, opening up great access to the cockpit's utilities. Beneath the sole, you’ll find the hydraulic steering arm, a view of the generator’s back end, and the stern thruster at the bilge's lowest point. Yes, this little tug has bow and stern thrusters, making close-quarters handling a breeze.
The cockpit's storage and utility setup is surprisingly robust. Each side has a lazarette-like compartment, housing items like the hydraulic steering pump and house or engine batteries. There's even space for an extra freezer or ice maker. Flip-up cockpit seats on both sides expand the usable space, giving you a full perch on either side.
To starboard, there's a sink module with options. It can be replaced with an aft helm station for those who want external controls. Beneath the sink are well-labeled battery switches for house, engine, and thrusters. Aft shore power inlet, extra storage, and ubiquitous cupholders round things out.
Heading forward, the bow seating area is a standout spot. It’s romantic, yes, but also solid and secure even in 25–30 knots of wind. The fold-down seatback converts the bow into a lounging or access space, with non-skid steps and anchor gear all thoughtfully placed. A windlass, anchor chain locker, foot switches, and a center cleat make this very much a working foredeck.
The command bridge is what makes the R31CB a “CB.” Railings are reassuringly tall. The folding mast means it can squeeze under low bridges for Loop cruising with just one adjustment. At the bridge level, there's wraparound seating for four with a foldable table, and a helm station with full controls. A 140-watt solar panel trickle-charges the batteries when idle. And yes, the entire helm console folds flat as well as the mast, making this boat trailerable and even garage-storable.
Interior Accommodation
Inside, the galley runs starboard and makes full use of its compact footprint. It includes a two-burner propane cooktop, a proper oven, and a double sink. Storage is everywhere: open shelving for spices, drawers, deep cabinets. Counter space rivals much larger boats. Appliances include a good-size fridge, a wine cooler, a microwave, and hot water that’s plumbed to be engine-heated while underway. For colder locations, you’ve got reverse-cycle AC and an optional diesel heater.
Moving forward, the saloon is centered around a hi-lo table that converts into an extra berth. Two seats face forward beside the helm and can be used underway, creating a sweet little “day office” setup. The table doubles as a workstation. Windows open on both sides for cross-ventilation, aided by four overhead hatches. Mosquito screens throughout are standard.
Entertainment comes via a drop-down salon TV. The helm is distinctly tug-like, with vertical front windows, each fitted with its own wiper. There’s a nostalgic, cozy character here. A sliding door at the helm enables quick access for docking.
Owner's Cabin
The master cabin is forward, laid out in an unconventional but very practical style. There's stand-up access around the berth so you can actually make the bed without contortions. Headroom is around 1.68m to 1.7m in spots. Storage is generous with five signature compartments, shelving, and even a little vanity-style work area. Privacy comes via a sliding partition and folding door. Entertainment and comfort are taken care of with a TV, Fusion stereo, and dedicated air conditioning.
The ensuite is a wet head with proper shower space, a little medicine cabinet, porthole, overhead hatch with hook, and a grab handle. There’s also convenient access behind the head to reach electronics and systems. A privacy curtain offers an alternative to fully closing the door.
Guest Accommodation
The guest cabin is tucked port midship under the saloon floor—almost hidden but very usable. It’s got a full-size berth, small dressing space, and its own night/day head. A hinged privacy panel above and a full door keep it self-contained. It’s the kind of setup that works perfectly for short-stay guests or part-time crew on the Loop. Nearby, there’s a pantry-style dry storage space and access to the high- and low-voltage electrical panels.
Performance
The engine room is accessed via a hydraulic hatch in the cockpit. Remove the table and you get a huge opening that houses a Volvo Penta D4 320hp diesel, straight shaft, single prop. All filters are easily accessible. A well-situated Onan generator sits just aft of the main engine, with dual access points: one from the cockpit side hatch, one from the engine room. It’s clean, compact, and set up for straightforward maintenance.
The Ranger Tug R31 CB cruises comfortably at 17 knots and hits a top speed of 22-23 knots. Slow cruise at 7 knots stretches the range to 720 nautical miles. It’s a semi-displacement GRP hull that can handle rough Pacific Northwest conditions. Trim tabs help get her on plane quickly, and with both bow and stern thrusters, this single-screw boat is still ultra-maneuverable.
Ownership Considerations
One of the biggest draws here is that the R-31 CB is trailerable. With a 3.05m (10ft) beam and folding flybridge console, it can be loaded onto a triple axle trailer and hauled by a 2500 series pickup. You could quite literally launch on one coast and recover on another.
That trailerability has a real impact on costs. It opens the door to home storage, flexible winterising, and the option to avoid year-round mooring fees altogether. Even if you do keep it in the water, the single diesel engine, modest draft, and compact footprint mean berthing fees and haul-out costs remain manageable compared to twin-engine flybridge boats of similar length.
It’s a liveaboard Loop-capable cruiser with a full galley, multiple sleeping options, heating and AC, and long-range performance. Add solar charging, diesel heating options, and multiple head compartments, and it’s hard not to see this as a compelling mini yacht.
Running costs for a boat like this, including berthing, insurance, annual servicing, winter haul-out, and fuel, tend to fall in the region of 5-7% of the purchase price per year, depending on how and where you use it. With careful maintenance and a relatively efficient hull, it stays firmly on the low end of the spectrum for a cruiser in this class. Garmin electronics, autopilot, and easy docking tech bring real confidence for newer owners. The R-31 CB comes in two packages, the Northwest edition starts at $424,937 and the luxury edition starts at $439,937.
If you want a tug-style cruiser that can cross borders by land and water alike, this one fits the bill. Other boats in this class and might be worth a look are the Targa 32 and the Nord Star 33+.
In Summary
For a 9.4m (31ft) “pocket yacht,” the Ranger Tug R31 CB proves how much a compact cruiser can deliver. With its unique command bridge, fold-flat fly helm, liveaboard galley, clever sleeping spaces, and single-screw propulsion with full thruster support, it’s ready for big adventures. Trailer it across the country, cruise the Loop, or just enjoy weekenders with all the comforts of a much larger boat. It’s definitely one of those “you gotta see it” designs for anyone who thought they’d have to size up to cruise seriously.
Looking to own a Ranger Tugs R-31 CB? Use YachtBuyer’s Market Watch to compare all new and used Ranger Tugs R-31 CB Boats for sale worldwide. You can also order a new Ranger Tugs R-31 CB, customized to your exact specifications, with options for engine choice and layout configuration. Alternatively, explore our global listings of new and used boats for sale and find your perfect boat today!
Specifications
- Builder Ranger Tugs
- Model R-31 CB
- Length Overall 10.62m
- Beam 3.05m
- Draft 0.76m
- Hull GRP
- Cabins 2
- Berths 3
- Yacht Type (Primary) Trawler Boat
- Use Type (Primary) Cruising
- Cruising Speed
- Max Speed
- Fuel Capacity 681 Litres
- Fresh Water Capacity 227 Litres
- Engine Model 2x Volvo Penta D4-320
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