When it comes to enjoying the serene beauty of lakes, there’s no better way than doing it from the comfort of a cabin-equipped boat. Cabin boats offer a luxurious and comfortable way to explore lakes while providing protection from the elements and a cozy space for overnight stays. In 2023, the market is brimming with fantastic options for boat enthusiasts seeking the perfect cabin experience. In this article, we’ll explore the 19 best boats with cabins for lakes in 2023, helping you make an informed choice.
1. Sea Ray Sundancer 320
The Sea Ray Sundancer 320 is an excellent boat for lakes due to its impressive combination of indoor and outdoor space and its versatile features. Its spacious bow sun lounge offers enough room for three people, complete with cup holders and a stereo remote, making it perfect for relaxing and entertaining. Its moveable lounge behind the captain’s sofa can comfortably host eight guests, while the cabin below provides comfortable sleeping for four. The wet bar with an optional grill and refrigerator in the deck lounge makes entertaining effortless. Additionally, the 370 Outboard version is powered by three Mercury® 300 Verado® outboard engines, providing the latest in intelligent command with a Digital DashTM and twin 12′′ Simrad® GO12 touchscreen displays.
MSRP: $322,000
2. Tiara Yachts 39 Coupe
The Tiara Yachts 39 Coupe is an ideal boat for lakes due to its combination of sport-styling and yachting amenities. It boasts impressive on-deck features, including overnight capabilities for up to five people, a chaise lounge sun pad in the bow, and a rotating lounge with multiple locking positions. It also features a fold-down terrace for expanding the cockpit and an electric grill located at the stern.
The boat has a C39 hull, based on Tiara’s popular 36 Open hulls, and provides a comfortable ride in all weather. It is hand-laid, with a solid fiberglass bottom, balsa-cored hull sides, foam cores, and wood-skin stringers. Furthermore, it is painted with Imron, which Tiara favors over a traditional gel coat. Finally, the boat transitions smoothly between the same-level saloon, galley, and cockpit, with large sliding glass doors. Plus, there is a large swim platform with gated stairs to the cockpit to the port and starboard, which adds to the entertainment area.
MSRP: $720,000
3. Four Winns Vista 255
The Four Winns Vista 255 is a bowrider that can do double-duty as a cruiser, thanks to modern boat design advancements. This boat features a cockpit with a fully enclosed head in the passenger’s side console and a changing room with a berth in the driver’s side console. This bowrider also has a large swim platform, comfy flip-up bolster seats, and yacht-level construction with fabricated aluminum motor mounts and an auto fire-extinguish system. Perfect for leisurely cruises with friends or serious offshore fishing, the Four Winns Vista 255 is sure to meet whatever the day calls for.
MSRP: $120,000
4. Jeanneau VELASCO 43F Cabin Cruiser
The Jeanneau VELASCO 43F Cabin Cruiser is an ideal choice because of its impressive features and spacious design. The boat’s impressive power of twin 600 horsepower engines and its two opening side terraces make it perfect for creating a genuine beach club atmosphere. Furthermore, the boat’s four levels and two cabins provide plenty of space to accommodate multiple guests and family members. Inside, the boat is equipped with a modern kitchen and a comfortable U-shaped dinette with a retractable table. The spacious and modern cabins also provide plenty of room to sleep up to six people comfortably. The boat’s integrated radar arch gives it a polished and defined look, and its shaft drive and double thrusters make for a smooth and enjoyable ride on the lake. Furthermore, its expansive cockpit seating ensures that multiple guests can sit comfortably and enjoy the lake’s views.
MSRP: $413,000
5. Bayliner VR5 Cuddy With Dinette
The Bayliner VR5 Cuddy With Dinette is an excellent choice due to its lightweight and comfortable amenities. With a 150HP engine, the boat only weighs 3,131 pounds, making it incredibly easy to tow for those with small trucks, SUVs, and even some minivans with towing packages. This boat has plenty of wrap-around seating, with a captain’s chair that swivels around to line up with an optional teak dining table. This makes it a perfect boat for relaxing and enjoying the view with family and friends. Additionally, the VR5 has a kitchenette with a stove, refrigerator, microwave, and sink, providing the necessary amenities for a day on the lake. Finally, this boat is also reasonably priced, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious lake-goers.
MSRP: $73,000
6. Aspen 32 C100 Escape Power Cat Cabin Cruiser
The Aspen 32 C100 Escape Power Cat Cabin Cruiser is the perfect choice for lakes because of its unique asymmetrical hulls. These hulls compensate for engine torque, creating a smooth and straight cruising experience when you take your hands off of the wheel, allowing you to cruise at a high speed of just under thirty miles per hour. The spacious cockpit is perfect for entertaining a large group of guests, fishing, or hanging out with family and friends. The cockpit features two refrigerators, a sink, and plenty of room for supplies and passengers. The cabin area offers comfortable sleeping for up to six people and a fully equipped kitchen with a stove, oven, sink, fridge, and microwave. The boat’s interior is also designed to reduce sound and vibration levels, giving you a peaceful cruising experience.
MSRP:
7. Bayliner Ciera 8
The Bayliner VR5 Cuddy is an excellent option due to its size, weight, and features. The hull length is 18’4”, the beam is 8’, and the draught is 2’10”. The boat is compact enough to fit into smaller lakes and harbors, allowing for easy navigation and maneuverability. The Ciera 8 comes with a choice of either a 150HP or 250HP engine and a 33-gallon fuel tank to fuel it, making it powerful enough to take on larger lakes and explore further while still staying relatively fuel-efficient. Moreover, with the 150HP engine option, the boat weighs only 3,131 pounds, and even with the 250HP engine, it weighs only 3,351 pounds, making it easier to tow and launch. Furthermore, the VR5 Cuddy provides seating for up to 8 people, ensuring plenty of room for friends and family to enjoy the lake together.
MSRP: $483,000
8. Cruiser Yachts 39 Express Coupe
The Cruiser Yachts 39 Express Coupe is an ideal choice for lakes due to its impressive features and spacious layout. With a combined cockpit and helm area of more than 150 square feet, the 39 Express Coupe has one of the biggest cockpits in its class, providing ample space for socializing, relaxing, and entertaining. The 39 Express Coupe’s helm is simple to operate, with a platform for standing at the helm, a well-placed joystick, and views from all sides. The comfortable seating can be transformed into a transom, allowing you to create a space tailored to your needs.
The forward dinette has comfortable couches and wrap-around views, accommodating up to seven people, while the galley is positioned to maximize sea views and has all the necessary appliances. The master suite is well-equipped, featuring plenty of headroom, a plush double berth, a port-side sofa, a cedar-lined hanging locker, and the most up-to-date entertainment options. Finally, the Dynamic Running Surface system creates low sound and vibration levels and automatic leveling planes for a smoother, more even cruise, allowing you to enjoy the lake in comfort and luxury.
MSRP: 700,000
9. Back Cove Yachts 372 Cabin Cruiser
The Back Cove Yachts 372 Cabin Cruiser is an ideal choice for lakes due to its versatile design and features. Its Deep V-hull allows it to cruise through choppier water smoothly. Its joystick handling with computerized dynamic positioning makes it easier to control and maneuver, making it perfect for lake cruising. Its spacious cockpit, with a grill, fridge, and ice maker, makes it perfect for entertaining large groups of people. Its two separate bedrooms provide plenty of room for up to six people to sleep. Its kitchen is fully equipped with all the essentials, including a stove, fridge, sink, microwave, and dishwasher for all your cooking needs. The Back Cove 32’s 375 hp Cummins QSB diesel (optional) or a 370 hp Volvo Penta D6 (standard) engine provide enough power to reach a top speed of 25-plus knots, providing plenty of speed for lake cruising.
MSRP: $895,000
10. Tiara 43 LE
The Tiara 43 LE is an excellent choice for lake cruising due to its innovative features and superior performance. Designed with a focus on sport-styling and yachting amenities, the 43 LE provides an innovative and functional cabin cruiser experience. With its expansive deck, rotating lounge, and fold-down terrace, the 43 LE offers plenty of comfortable outdoor living space for passengers and guests. The bow features a chaise lounge sun pad, and the aft deck features a built-in electric grill for special occasions. The cabin below provides ample overnight accommodations for up to five people. Additionally, the 43 LE features a mechanized frame that can expand its patio surface when anchored, providing a truly unique and enjoyable cruising experience.
MSRP: $950,000
11. Rinker 270 Express Cruiser
The Rinker 270 Express Cruiser is a remarkable 28’10” boat with an 8’6” beam, a dry weight of 7,095 pounds, and the capacity to sleep up to four people. This boat is ideal for weekend adventurers or those who want to travel around the country with their boat in tow, as it is small enough to be transported via trailer yet large enough to live in. The cabin features 6’5” of headroom and amenities such as a one-burner electric stove, microwave, 2.3 cubic foot fridge, and a built-in Bluetooth stereo system.
The Rinker 270 Express Cruiser is an excellent choice for those who want a functional, beautiful boat that also has the power to move like a speed boat. The cockpit offers seating for three and is covered with a bimini top, and the back deck is easy to jump on and off of and houses an extendable ladder for swimmers. Best of all, used models of this boat can be found for as low as $40,000, and new models are also reasonably priced.
MSRP: $47,000
12. Robalo R305
Robalo R305 is a hard-top sport-fishing 1-cabin outboard cabin cruiser with an impressive length of 6.7 m, a fuel capacity of 200 l, and motor power of 200, 300 ch. Combining legendary performance and a sleek design, the Robalo R305 offers an unbeatable everyday cruiser that represents great value for money. With its multipurpose excellence, this is your ideal everyday fishing and cruising boat.
MSRP: $190,000
13. Scout 350 LXF
The Scout 350 LXF is a luxurious sportfish boat combining the qualities of a high-performance fish boat and a high-end cruiser. With an LOA of 34’11” and a beam of 10’9”, this vessel has a deep draft of 23” and a weight of 10,800 lbs. It is powered by two twin Yamaha 350 engines and a 334-gal fuel tank.
The exterior offers an open bow with bench seating and a tanning deck, rearward-facing bench seating, and a cockpit with an overhead cover. A convertible vee berth, a small galley kitchen with a sink and microwave, and a head with a toilet and shower are all located inside the cabin. At the cost of over $430,000, the Scout 350 LXF is a quality buy if you’re looking for a boat that can handle both fishing and cabin cruises.
MSRP: $430,000
14. Galeon 410 HTC
The Galeon 410 HTC is a sporty coupe-style cruiser built atop the hull of Galeon’s 40-foot flybridge model. It features a unique below-deck layout with two staterooms and two heads, providing plenty of privacy for multiple couples. The 410 HTC also has a beach platform with a gunwale that folds down at the press of a button for easy access to the water. It was honored by Boating Industry as a Top Product of 2021 and is equipped with a Garmin navigation system, a triple outboard motor system with integrated electronics for superior performance, and an expandable aft deck with a rotating lounge. Unfortunately, this boat does not come with a cloaking shield.
MSRP: $650,000
15. Boston Whaler 350 Realm
The Boston Whaler 350 Realm is a powerful, multifaceted boat perfect for fishing, entertaining, overnight cruising, and diving. It’s powered by either triple 300 HP or triple 350 HP Mercury Verados, offering a maximum speed of 46 knots. The helm is outfitted with two Raymarine displays, while the double-wide helm seat features a flip-down platform and footrest. A V-shaped berth converts into a double berth with a filler cushion, and the separated head is equipped with a VacuFlush MSD and hot-and-cold shower. Optional add-ons include a microwave and flat-screen TV. Additionally, the boat boasts a flush-deck layout for easy movement, vertical rod holders in the gunwales, and a hardtop for anglers. The air-conditioned cabin offers seating that becomes a berth and an enclosed head.
MSRP: $500,000
16. Belize 54 Daybridge
The Belize 54 Daybridge is an all-in-one luxury motor yacht designed in collaboration between Belize and Riviera Yachts and constructed by Riviera Australia. Featuring the latest cutting-edge construction technology, including resin infusion, a vinyl ester outer skin, and independent foam-filled hull compartments, this CZone-equipped digital switching boat with glass cockpit electronics and IPS propulsion is the perfect balance of power and comfort. The 54 Daybridge offers single-level living with a lower control station, flybridge, and a three-stateroom, two-head layout. Additional luxury amenities include an outdoor grill and wet bar, a tender garage, and a foredeck sun pad.
MSRP: $1,200,000
17. Pursuit DC 325 Dual Console
The Pursuit DC 325 Dual Console is a powerful and spacious 42-foot flagship vessel that offers an impressive array of innovative features and amenities. Boasting an industry-first second row of powered seats beneath the oversized hardtop and a convertible forward-console seat with electrically actuated backrests, the DC 325 also features three fish boxes totaling 134 gallons, two 36-gallon transom live wells, tackle storage, hull side doors port and starboard, and a spacious aft cockpit with horizontal and vertical rod holders. The console cabin provides a comfortable and well-lit environment with a convertible berth, enclosed head compartment, air conditioning, heating, microwave, 32-inch TV, and hidden storage. With standard power – quad Yamaha 425 XTO outboards with Helm Master EX – this boat reaches a max speed of 59.3 mph and has a cruising speed of 31 mph with 0.71 mpg.
MSRP: $260,000
18. Rinker 290 Express Cruiser
The Rinker 290 Express Cruiser is an excellent option due to its size and features. At 28’10” and an 8’6” beam, it is small enough to be towed to your favorite lake on a trailer yet large enough to accommodate up to four people. The cabin has 6’5” of headroom and features a vee berth and double berth, as well as a galley kitchen, microwave, and a 2.3 cubic foot refrigerator. On the outside, the cockpit has seating for three and a bimini top to provide shade. Additionally, the back deck provides easy access to the water with an extendable ladder. Moreover, used models of this boat are available for as little as $130,000, making it an affordable option for those who do not want to break the bank.
MSRP: $132,000
19. Axopar 37 Cabin
The Axopar 37 Cabin is a twin-engine hard-top sport-fishing outboard cabin cruiser boasting a length of 26’04”. The 26 XP offers excellent comfort and convenience with its already best-selling boat line, featuring a vast sleeping birth, freshwater sink, and a porta potti. The cabin is made using marine-grade materials for added durability. The exterior combines classic, traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, creating a boat perfect for entertaining or relaxing. The cockpit seats four people comfortably, and the cabin has a U-shaped seating arrangement and a polished cherry wood table.
The kitchen is fully equipped with all essentials, including a stove, fridge, microwave, sink, and storage. The bedroom contains one queen-sized bed that can sleep up to two adults or two adults and one child, and it has a door that you can shut for added privacy. The boat is equipped with smaller engines, allowing it to reach higher speeds with less horsepower, as well as IPS pod drives and joystick control for easier maneuvering, even in shallower water or close quarters.
MSRP: $127,000
Things to Consider when Buying a Boat with a Cabin for Lakes
Size
When buying a lake boat with a cabin, size should be the most crucial factor to consider. The number of guests that can be accommodated on the boat is determined by its size. If you plan to entertain a lot of people on your boat, then a larger boat with amenities such as a fridge and grill in the cockpit and plenty of sleeping space in the cabin could be the better choice. However, if you are only looking for a boat for yourself, your spouse, or your close family, then a smaller and more practical boat would be more appropriate. Additionally, the size of the boat will also influence its speed capabilities. Larger cruisers typically cannot cruise as quickly as smaller cruisers due to their increased weight.
Amenities
When buying a boat with a cabin for lakes, it is essential to consider the amenities that you will need. The cabin should be roomy, offer plenty of headroom, and have lots of windows for fresh air and views of the lake. Additionally, the cabin should have a bathroom (head), a kitchen, sleeping quarters, electricity, hot water, and potentially air conditioning and heating for comfort. If you plan on spending time outdoors, look for a boat with an outdoor grill and entertainment area. For those who plan to entertain, a boat with a larger cabin with more amenities may be a better choice. If you can’t decide between the two, some cabin cruisers offer both. Lastly, equip your boat with a high-performance first aid kit designed for easy accessibility.
Seating
When it comes to buying a lake boat with a cabin, it is crucial to consider the seating arrangements. The seating layout can make or break your boating experience, so it is important to make sure you get it right. Cabin cruisers typically offer various seating options to accommodate various passengers, from significant families to smaller groups. Depending on the size of the boat and the number of passengers, you can choose from bench seats, couches, chaise lounges, and even tables with seating. It is important to consider how many people you plan to have aboard the boat, as well as what type of seating you are looking for. Some cabin cruisers have convertible seating, which can be changed to accommodate different numbers of passengers or activities. This can be a great option if you use the boat for entertaining and overnight trips.
Storage
When buying a lake boat with a cabin, it is essential to consider the storage available. A cabin cruiser provides ample storage for all your gear and supplies, so you don’t have to worry about running out of space. Additionally, some cabin cruisers come with extra amenities such as a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters, meaning you won’t have to worry about cramming everything into a small space. Furthermore, storage should also be taken into account when planning the purchase, as it’s best to determine a budget that includes the boat purchase plus any required gear and accessories, registration, insurance, annual fuel, storage, and maintenance costs.
Engine
When looking to buy a cabin cruiser for recreational use on a lake, there are various elements you should consider. One of the critical components to look for is the boat’s engine size and speed capabilities. If you want a boat that can go quicker, you may have to opt for a smaller boat, as large cruisers typically cannot cruise as quickly due to their increased weight. Additionally, the boat you choose should be large enough to accommodate the number of guests you intend to entertain and have adequate sleeping space for those staying overnight. Cabin cruisers offer a range of benefits, including the option for dedicated generators for power, plenty of space for activities, and customizability to cater to your specific needs.
Maintenance
When considering the purchase of a boat with a cabin for lakes, there are both ongoing and one-time costs to be aware of. In terms of ongoing maintenance, boat insurance, engine maintenance, steering system maintenance, and the cost of supplies to clean your boat after use is necessary. Additionally, boat slips and marina security fees may need to be taken into account if you will be boating year-round. In terms of one-time costs, 10%-15% of the cost of the vessel should be budgeted for annual maintenance. Further, prepping the engine for disuse, servicing the filters and separators, stabilizing the fuel system, and prepping the plumbing are all considerations for upkeep that should be considered. Finally, boat navigation lights may be necessary for night-time boating, and a marine radio operator permit from the FCC may need to be obtained under certain circumstances.
Budget
Cabin cruisers come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and prices, so it is essential to know what you can afford and how much you are willing to spend. Not only will this help you narrow your search, but it can also help ensure you get a boat that suits your needs and budget. Additionally, several features and amenities can affect the price of a cabin cruiser, such as the size of the cabin, the number of beds, the presence of a kitchen, air conditioning, heating, and more. Considering all of these factors when purchasing will help ensure that you get the best value for your money. Alternatively, other options may offer similar features and functionality to a cabin cruiser, so it is always good to explore those as well.
FAQs
What types of boats have cabins?
There are three main types of boats with cabins: regular cabin cruisers, sport fishing cabin cruisers, and luxury cabin cruisers. Regular cabin cruisers are very deep-hulled boats with spacious decks and a cabin that houses many of the boat’s features and amenities. They are usually equipped with 2-4 powerful engines. Sport fishing cabin cruisers are outfitted with features and gear central to fishing, such as rod mounts, live wells, and bait freezers, and are ideal for larger sport fishing in coastal waters. Luxury cabin cruisers are designed for longer overnight voyages, with large decks and spacious interiors, equipped with amenities like air conditioning/heating and bow thrusters, making them easier to maneuver.
What amenities do boats with cabins have?
Boats with cabins typically have various amenities to make your time on the water comfortable and enjoyable. These amenities can include a kitchen, bathroom, sleeping quarters, electricity, hot water, air conditioning, heating, outdoor grills, and entertainment areas. Depending on the size of your cabin cruiser, it may also be able to entertain guests or accommodate a more prominent family. It is important to consider how many people you plan to have on board and what features and amenities you would like to determine the size and layout of your cabin cruiser that is best for you and your needs.
What is the average size of a boat with a cabin?
The average size of a boat with a cabin, also known as a cabin cruiser, is between 20 and 40 feet long. These boats are often used in coastal waterways for leisure activities like cruising, fishing, and family entertainment. They can be Class 1, 2, or 3 vessels, with Class 1 being between 16 and less than 26 feet, Class 2 being between 26 and less than 40 feet, and Class 3 being more than 40 feet but less than 65 feet. The boat’s size and weight will dictate whether it can be transported and used effectively on smaller rivers and lakes. Cabin cruisers come equipped with sleeping, cooking, and bathroom facilities and can offer passengers a comfortable experience while on the water.
What is the cost of a boat with a cabin?
The cost of a boat with a cabin can vary significantly, ranging from $50,000 to upwards of $1 million, depending on the desired size and level of luxury. Generally, new cabin cruisers start at around $70,000 and go up from there, while used models can be found for as little as $7,000 and range up to around $30,000.
When considering the price of a cabin cruiser, it is important to factor in the ongoing cost of boat ownership, such as insurance, maintenance, fuel, and boater education. Additionally, slip and marina security fees should be considered if the boat is stored for part of the year. The annual price of these expenses can range from 10%-15% of the cost of the vessel.
What safety features should I look for in a boat with a cabin?
When looking for a boat with a cabin, it is essential to look for safety features that will help keep you and your passengers safe while on the water. Look for features such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, and first aid kits that are easily accessible and updated. Ensure the boat has a properly maintained and inspected engine and electrical system, a well-working bilge pump, or an emergency backup bilge pump if the primary one fails. Additionally, if you plan on going out at night, look for navigation lights, a spotlight, and a depth finder. Lastly, check the condition of the boat’s hull and deck and look for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
What type of engine should I choose for a boat with a cabin?
When selecting an engine for your cabin cruiser, it is crucial to consider the amount of power you need and the type of vessel. Consider the size of your boat and the activities you plan to do when deciding what engine is best for your cabin cruiser. While some cabin cruisers may be equipped with 2 or 4 engines, smaller boats only require 1. Depending on your needs and the size of your boat, you may want to consider an inboard or outboard motor. Inboard motors are typically more powerful and can offer smoother handling when navigating choppy waters. Outboard motors, however, are often more affordable and easier to maintain.