On Board Review

Cruisers 34 GLS I/O Review (2022 Edition)

The Cruisers 34 GLS is a testament to the enduring appeal of American sports boats, offering maximum fun on the water and a hefty dose of the cool factor.

The Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS embodies the spirit of adventure and excitement, boasting a plethora of seating options and a practical cabin perfect for weekend getaways. Our exploration of this entry-level model within the expanding GLS lineup at the 2022 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show left us thoroughly impressed.

Cruisers 34 GLS I/O Key Facts

Cruisers 34 GLS I/O illustration
  • LOA 37.008ft
  • Model Year 2022
  • Cabins 1
  • Max Speed 45 knots
  • Status In Production
  • Yacht Type Sportsboat
  • Use Type Weekending

Review Video

Design & Build

In a market seemingly dominated by new Scandinavian-style enclosed wheelhouse models, the traditional open bowrider sports boat might appear to be fading into obscurity. However, the Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS serves as a timely reminder of the enduring appeal and sporting prowess of this genre.

Its sleek and aggressive lines exude pure performance, with the standard hardtop effortlessly integrating into its dynamic aesthetic. Despite its impressive versatility, boasting a multi-functional layout and a spacious cabin, the focus remains squarely on its exhilarating performance capabilities.

Cruisers 34 GLS design
Smart, fast and accommodating, the 34 GLS is a great weekender sportsboat © Cruisers Yachts

The Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS offers the flexibility of running on either twin 300hp Mercury or Yamaha outboard engines or opting for a choice between 350hp Mercruiser or Volvo Penta petrol inboard sterndrives. This versatility ensures that regardless of your preference, you'll enjoy comparable performance, reaching speeds of around 45mph.

Sporty Sense

One notable advantage of the outboard engines is the spacious lazarette it provides, offering ample storage for wakeboards, fold-up bikes, or a dinghy. Additionally, with multiple cool boxes and fridges on board, there's no shortage of storage for food and drinks, leaving the lazarette free for recreational gear.

Cruisers 34 GLS design
Cruisers 34 GLS design

Best of both?

The bowrider layout of the 34 GLS, consistent across all GLS models, not only provides expansive seating but also incorporates a practical weekender cabin for two or three individuals, elevating the boat to a Grand Tourer status. The yacht boasts an impeccable finish throughout, enhancing its GT appeal. On the exterior, premium stainless steel fittings add a touch of quality, while onboard, the upholstery rivals that of luxury cars. Furthermore, the lockers are meticulously lined and self-draining, with many featuring gas-strut lids for added convenience and ease of access.

Interior Accommodation

While the cabin may not be the primary factor influencing your decision to purchase this boat, it's likely to leave you pleased with your choice. A decent cabin offers the convenience of changing clothes, taking a rest, or seeking refuge from the heat — especially when fully air-conditioned. However, what sets this cabin apart is its exquisite finish and ambiance.

One of the most striking features is the generous space. The four-berth cabin feels remarkably deep, possibly influenced by the vee hull form. Descending three easy treads, you're greeted by a convertible dinette seating layout that maintains an open feel and provides the flexibility to dine or gather privately.

Cruisers 34 GLS design
The cabin’s open plan dinette will convert into a double berth © Cruisers Yachts
Cruisers 34 GLS cabin
Cruisers 34 GLS cabin

Completing the interior is a proper, full-height toilet and shower compartment, along with a single-berth mid-cabin that can be curtained off for privacy. The cabin's generous height accommodates rich timber lockers at eye level, complemented by a microwave and refrigerator near the entranceway.

The sharp cutaway hull window lines outside translate into useful starboard-side glass and portholes inside, enhancing both space and natural light. The result is a bright cabin that you'll genuinely enjoy spending time in, whether for a few hours or several nights at a stretch.

Helm Station

At the helm, three people can comfortably gather around, with the main bench seat offering more than just a simple perch. It features a bolster and armrest, providing the option to stand or sit with good lateral support, a crucial feature especially when cruising at speeds of up to 45mph.

Cruisers 34 GLS helm
The performance helm feels like a place where 40 knots can be enjoyed © Cruisers Yachts

A tactile sports steering wheel complements the chunky throttle controls mounted on a port side console, alongside joystick control. The setup and controls remain consistent for both inboard and outboard engines, ensuring buyers lose nothing and only gain a fantastic helm experience.

The console, especially in its South Beach version, exudes sophistication with its stitched finish contrasting against carbon and black fascias. Twin MFD screens serve as the perfect addition, enhancing the overall functionality of the helm.

On Deck

It's challenging to find another 35ft sports boat that effortlessly combines cockpit coolness with versatility for every on-water occasion.

The South Beach upgrade significantly enhances the onboard ambiance, transforming the standard white GRP and ivory upholstery into a sleek black or gunship grey exterior complemented by contrasting Okra burnt orange leatherette. Regardless of the chosen format, the seating extending from bow to stern boasts exquisite upholstery and sculpting, with many pieces hinging or flipping to create loungers and surrounds.

Cruisers 34 GLS design
The Cruisers 34 GLS delivers a vast sweep of deck from stern to bow © Cruisers Yachts
Cruisers 34 GLS deck
Cruisers 34 GLS deck

Beginning with the aft sun pad, its backrest effortlessly hinges with a reassuring click, extending the sunbathing area. On the opposite side, a sleek wet bar and grill, complete with the first of many fridges, awaits. The wet bar molding also features a convenient aft-facing seat, ideal for watersports enthusiasts.

Positioned beneath the hardtop, the central area of the cockpit serves as a shaded hub for socializing and dining. A practical table, discreetly stowed beneath the starboard bench, is easily accessed for alfresco meals. The central layout fosters a comfortable seating arrangement, with the forward port side helm seat reversing to complete the ensemble.

Cruisers 34 GLS deck
Cruisers 34 GLS deck
Cruisers 34 GLS deck

Ride of Your Life

Navigating forward into the bowrider area is both safe and effortless, epitomizing the glamorous yet sporty essence of the 34 GLS. Here, all elements converge into a truly impressive experience.

The seating boasts a deep and supportive design, with hidden armrests that fold out to provide enhanced lateral support. Additionally, there seems to be an abundance of cup holders, ensuring ample convenience for every guest. Whether at rest or in motion, this space offers both relaxation and excitement, with the exhilaration occasionally accompanied by a refreshing spray. To accommodate such dynamic experiences, the entire deck, along with the lockers, is meticulously self-draining.

Value For Money

Among the available options, the South Beach Edition upgrade stands out as a compelling choice, particularly for those who appreciate its striking colors and finishes reminiscent of its Miami namesake. While visuals of the South Beach edition are currently unavailable, the showcased boat on the film tour exhibits this captivating finish.

Cruiser 34GLS
The Cruisers 34 GLS in its a standard finish

Additionally, the hardtop options present worthwhile investments. The manual sunroof exudes robust engineering and provides added versatility, while the electric awning ensures that the entire cockpit remains usable regardless of the sun's intensity.

Our Verdict

The Cruisers 34 GLS effortlessly straddles the line between a high-speed waterside terrace and a remarkably accommodating sports boat, showcasing its versatility and success. With its blend of fun, cool aesthetics, and impressive finish, it serves as a testament to the sheer enjoyment of open boating. In an evolving sports boat market where size and price perceptions are shifting, what was once considered gargantuan is now the norm. Moreover, compared to Scandinavian standards, this American-built boat offers exceptional value. What truly sets it apart is its unmatched functionality, build quality, and adaptability, ensuring it always stands ready to impress.

Reasons to Buy

  • Superb dayboat deck
  • High-class finish
  • Useful overnight cabin
  • South Beach upgrade

Things to Consider

  • Not as fast as some rivals

Looking to own a Cruisers 34 GLS I/O? Use YachtBuyer’s Market Watch to compare all new and used Cruisers 34 GLS I/O Boats for sale worldwide. You can also order a new Cruisers 34 GLS I/O, 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!

Rivals to Consider

The 10-12m sportsboat market is experiencing a surge of options, with models now stretching beyond the traditional 9m range and venturing past 15m. The shift from sleek bowriders and cuddy cabins to open center consoles, often equipped with high-power outboards, reflects a trend towards practicality and versatility. Additionally, Scandinavian-inspired wheelhouse designs are gaining popularity, offering innovative layouts and all-weather capabilities for weekend cruising.

Despite these advancements, the classic American sportsboat concept, exemplified by the Cruisers, still holds significant appeal. Among its inboard-engine competitors, the Formula Crossover 350 stands out as a close rival, boasting a social deck layout and impressive cabin amenities. The option for powerful twin Mercruiser engines provides exhilarating performance, reaching speeds surpassing 50 knots.

Another standout contender is the Sea Ray 350 SLX, renowned for its retro-cool design and spacious cockpit. While lacking a cabin, it offers a stylish toilet compartment and impressive speed, powered by twin Mercruiser sterndrives capable of achieving over 40 knots.

In the British market, the Fairline F33 shines with its impeccable style, luxurious finish, and impressive performance. Enhanced by cool lighting, a new hardtop, and premium upholstery, it exudes a GT-style allure complemented by a well-appointed weekender cabin. With options for powerful Volvo Penta petrol or twin-diesel engines, the Fairline F33 delivers both style and speed, reaching close to 50 knots with petrol engines and 33 knots with twin diesels.

Considering a new boat? Explore Cruisers' entire current range to find the model that best suits your needs, and compare it with alternatives from competitors to ensure you make the perfect choice.

Specifications

  • Builder Cruisers Yachts
  • Range GLS
  • Model 34 GLS I/O
  • Length Overall 37.008ft
  • Beam 10.991ft
  • Hull GRP
  • Cabins 1
  • Berths 4
  • Cruising Speed
  • Max Speed
  • Fuel Capacity 200 Gallons
  • Fresh Water Capacity 25 Gallons
New Model Specs & Options

Cruisers 34 GLS I/O Layout

  • Main Deck Cruisers 34 GLS I/O

    You win more swim platform on the inboard boat but the cockpit layout is the same, with a surround of seating and the bow rider.

  • Lower Deck Cruisers 34 GLS I/O

    Surprisingly deep and spacious, the cabin features a proper toilet compartment. 

View All Layout Options