2014 Cruisers 328 Sport Series

Boat Reviews

Boat Review by: Richard Crowder

Commemorating its sixty year history last year, Cruisers Yachts introduced the 328 Black Diamond Limited Edition. The 328 Bow Rider on which it is based, is the flagship of the nine model Sport Series for 2014 which includes six Bow Riders, one Express, and two Sport Cuddies ranging from twenty to the almost thirty-three feet of this 328 model. Cruisers Yachts of Oconto, Wisconsin, part of KCS International, Inc., also offers a total of ten models of express cruisers, sport coupes, and motor yachts from thirty-one to fifty-four feet.

Bowriders sure aren’t what they used to be and this 328 Sport Series illustrates as well or perhaps even better than any other example just how far the bowrider concept has developed and evolved. Now keep in mind that this 328 is as large or even larger than many express cruisers with its almost thirty-three foot length overall on a ten foot, six inch beam, but still you may not be prepared for all that Cruisers Yachts has built into this bowrider.

Even with its overall size, the 328 looks sleek and fast and exciting with its rakish prow and windshield plus its tapered lines toward the stern culminating in the large integrated and sculptured swim platform located just above the waterline for easy access to waterborne activities. A port side mounted recessed and covered telescoping boarding ladder leaves the balance of this platform for others to enjoy.

One of the most noticeable features of the stern of the 328 is the double or even triple-wide heavily cushioned and power activated transom seat which, when folded out by utilizing the seat back and raised bottom cushions of the transom portion of the cockpit bench seat, becomes one huge sunpad cum lounger. One step up and through the starboard side walk-thru with transom gate provides access to the cockpit where a portside bench seat joins the transom bench seat as an L-shaped lounge.

Further, the extra wide passenger chair with fold-down armrests and flip-up bolster can swivel right around to abut this L-shaped lounge to create a rear-facing lounge itself. The identical helm chair also swivels right around to bring everyone into the cockpit conversation and enjoyment. A large finished storage area is found under the port side bench seat and stainless cupholders are strategically placed throughout the 328. A cockpit table is standard as is carpeting. The engine hatch is motorized.

Access to the bow area is via a one step up port side companionway with complimenting walk-thru portion of the huge windshield. This long companionway has full length hullside storage compartments plus an in-floor trash compartment. U-shaped seating surrounds three sides of the bow with storage under most of these seats plus an in-floor storage compartment plus a large carry-on cooler under one of the seats. The foredeck houses an anchor locker.

The very substantial helm of the 328 is most business-like and functional yet very logically and aesthetically designed with fog-resistant gauges for normal sterndrive engine functions plus hour meter and digital depth gauge. The very modern and classy looking steering wheel is of course tilting. A GPS with 4-inch LCD screen is optional. On board entertainment is supplied by an AM/FM/CD with USB port, four speakers and a standard dash-mounted remote. A transom and bow remote come with an upgraded premium stereo package.

So far, I’m sure you’re saying, so what’s the big deal? Well here it is. To the left of the helm and centred in the 328 is a door with opening top hatch that leads down to a cabin with full six feet of headroom! Included down here is surrounding J-shaped seating with storage below and with a filler cushion to convert this into a full berth. A dinette table here is also standard. There is also a full separate “stand-up” head compartment with molded sink with pull-out shower faucet, vanity, storage, and a standard electric head with holding tank. Hot water is standard as is a microwave oven. You may optionally choose air conditioning, a refrigerator, and television/DVD player for this cabin.

Other notable standard equipment on the 328 Sports Series Bow Rider includes a vinylester barrier coat applied below the waterline to the hull, shore power, pull-up cleats, an automatic engine compartment fire extinguishing system, LED courtesy lighting, halogen docking lights, trim tabs, a bimini top plus bow and cockpit covers.

Notable options include full canvas enclosure or perhaps choose an aluminum radar arch, anchor windlass, cockpit wetbar, flooring coverings, stern shower, underwater lighting, bow deck sunpad, bow table, battery inverter, or perhaps go all out and have a generator installed. Twin sterndrive power of your choice of brands up to a maximum of twin 380 horsepower is available.

Is it any wonder that the Cruisers 328 Sport Series Bow Rider was chosen Boating Magazine’s Boat of the Year Award for 2013?

2014 Cruisers 328 Sport Series Photo Gallery

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