Re: Looking to upgrade to a faster cabin cruiser -- advice on brands and models?
Thanks John,
Yes, we're talking sheltered waters. And actually a 24 or 25 with a 5.7 would really fit the bill. If you're happy with your boat can you send me the specs?
I assume you're talking to me? I don't have the boat any longer. It was a 1999 Chris Craft 240 express. Single Volvo-Penta 280 hp 5.7 with the FI and duo-prop drive. There used to be a 'boattest' archive around but I can't find it now. IMO, the hull and powerplant were perfectly matched and it'd top 40 easily with 2 aboard and a full tank of fuel. It weighed 5250 lbs dry.
The pro's were:
- Excellent build quality and materials.
- Excellent rough water hull design with 22 deg. deadrise at the stern. NEVER pounded and was more capable in snotty conditions than the 27' in my sig.
- As already mentioned, it went like a raped ape and only used about 10 gph at a 25 mph cruise. I had upgraded to it from a 21' with a 175 hp outboard, and I saw essentially no difference in fuel consumption between the 2.
The cons:
- That deep-v hull took a toll on the overall cabin design. The cabin sole had to sit higher in the hull to get any width to it. That meant the cabin ceiling was higher than usual to provide headroom, and THAT resulted in a steeply sloping bow design that was difficult/dangerous to maneuver around when anchoring. The downward slope from the windshield to bow was just scary.
I couldn't recommend it for weekending. As good as the hull was, it wasn't a good choice for a pocket cruiser.
Every manufacturer make an express in the 24-25' range. A high horsepower 5.7 and dual prop, or a big block will get you the speed you're looking for.
