The Cruisers Yachts’ 42 GLS is the perfect pocket cruiser with 45 knots of on-the-water fun. I write this with confidence because that’s the top speed the 42 GLS I got aboard hit during speed runs off South Florida. The boat was powered with optional triple 400 hp Mercury Verado outboards, slightly larger than the standard triple 350 hp Verados but smaller than the largest triple 450 hp Verado option. It’s a great setup for wakeboarding or towing the kids in tubes. I ran the express cruiser across a lumpy Gulf Stream with lots of potholes to challenge its deep-V hull form with 21-degree transom deadrise, and my ride never saw spray on the windshield.
In addition to being a solid performer, the 42 GLS serves as an at-sea party platform. The cockpit is pure entertainment, the twin barstools facing aft over the sink, fridge and bottle stowage to the U-shaped dinette to the swiveling aft bench seat that faces inward or toward the foldout platforms far aft. Owners can add a barbecue grill (steaks, anyone?) as well as a TV to watch the game from the dinette.
The lower salon has a U-shaped dinette that becomes a tapered queen-size berth when needed. The dedicated stateroom has a nearly queen-size berth set up athwartships. The 6-foot-7-inch headroom extends into the enclosed head with a stand-up shower. In the mornings, owners can prep coffee and croissants with the salon’s fridge and microwave.
In terms of maintenance accessibility, there is unimpeded access to water strainers and batteries. There’s also an optional Seakeeper for roll-free cruising, a standard oversize sunroof for bringing in the outside, and a standard 5 kW generator to fire up the blender when it’s time for sundowners. Because the boat is designed for watery fun, it will be no surprise when sand finds its way into the cockpit or salon, so the 42 GLS has a central vacuum system that also comes standard.
The close-quarters boat handling is done via a Mercury joystick, which, during my time aboard, allowed the 42 GLS to slide sideways out of an incredibly tight slip sans white knuckles.
Well-appointed and with speed, space and solid handling, the Cruisers 42 GLS is fun at 45 knots and while just drifting and dreaming.
All In-House
To manage quality control, Cruisers Yachts does everything in-house, from labeled wiring harnesses to welded rails to stitched upholstery. On the Cruisers 42 GLS I got aboard, the woodwork trim in the salon and stateroom had a first-rate finish.
Why Outboards?
There are numerous reasons for outboard power, starting with easy maintenance. Service techs can easily access them by popping off the cowling. Outboards also allow owners to sidle into the shallows on sandbars and put the 42 GLS’s fold-down platforms to good use. Today’s outboards are relatively quiet and fuel-efficient too.
Take the next step: cruisersyachts.com
