Ranger Tugs R-31 CB Review (2021 Edition)

The Ranger Tugs focus on affordable boating follows several strands, all brilliantly reflected in this 10m, six-berth R-31 model.

The first pillar of boating sense was to base the entire Ranger Tugs range around the trawler yacht. This proven design is all about usability, with safe decks and upright superstructures that deliver plenty of interior space. For the R-31CB that means a bright salon and two cabins, the CB part referring to a raised Command Bridge, with the alternative R-31S offering the same layout with a hardworking sedan roofline that can be loaded with cruising kit.

Spec Savers

The next part of the Ranger Tug ethos is a big, and we mean massive, specification. For living, the R-31 is packed with seats and tables, multiple opening windows and hatches, a proper gas-powered galley and fridge plus a solar panel to feed the batteries. There’s even a choice of heating or air-con. 

The finish across the boat is equally impressive, with a good deal of cabinetry inside and hard-wearing materials on deck.

For cruising, you get the excellent Volvo Penta D4 engine, in 260hp or 320hp versions, on a low-maintenance shaft drive, with cruising speeds of around 12 to 16 knots accordingly. This platform is aided by a fuel-flow meter, bow and stern thruster, and a Garmin radar. All fitted as standard.

The final, unique, design feature of the Ranger Tugs range is the fact they are available in the US. The 3m beam (sadly beyond European 2.5m width rules) and 12,000lbs (5,400kg) displacement allow buyers to trail their boats far and wide and explore cruising grounds before returning homes for low-cost storage

Walking into the salon of a new Ranger Tug is akin to experiencing a yacht that has been lovingly owned for years. Yes, it is quite traditional in style but that’s not what we mean, we are referring to a level of finish and detail not normally found on a new yacht. 

Every inch has been considered and designed to be used, it's a policy that switches open spaces for function. The galley is a perfect example. Running to starboard and staggered to make moving across the sole easy, the gas hob and oven look like things you would cook on whilst the deep twin sink is simply outstanding. Louvered lockers hide all manner of stowage options and we love the ledge and rail that runs along the back of the galley, ideal for all manner of condiments and kit. 

Liveaboard Layout 

The galley is surrounded by opening windows, ports, and hatches so ventilation will be easy, as will serving the neat dinette opposite. The U-shape layout will easily seat four around a folding table that presents a useful grab rail. For social get-togethers, the helm seat will swivel to join in, creating a more relaxed and convivial surround, helped by some enchanting nautical lighting.

The dinette is a great place to be when underway, with the amount of glass surrounding the wheelhouse delivering excellent views. We particularly like the glass cutaway in the flybridge steps opening up the aft of the boat that bit more and, once again, reflecting the extra effort Ranger goes to. 

Beneath the dinette, accessed off the wheelhouse entrance, is a neat double berth hideaway, ideal for kids or the occasional adult guest, it comes with two ports and a toilet tastefully hidden under a seat. The main cabin lies forward with an offset double berth cleverly creating a seat and desk to port. Another useful feature is the deeply upholstered backrest that surrounds the berth, allowing you to sit up and use the cabin for more than sleeping. The toilet compartment is as well considered as the rest of the boat but there is no room for a separate shower.

Most of the interior is finished in warm, solid wood and what isn’t is covered in good-quality upholstery. The upshot is a cozy, homely feel. All it’s missing is an open fireplace. We checked the options list and it’s not on there.

The Command Bridge helm features a simple molding that can take two MFD screens but you may want to use one pod for pilot controls. It’s a great, if somewhat exposed position, with complete all-around visibility. It’s also easy to get out and down on deck, but there is a good argument for doing your close-quarter work and mooring from the lower helm, particularly if you’re short or single-handed.

The lower helm is a pure trawler yacht with its upright console and triple windscreen panels. It is a perfectly good design with space for a 16-inch plotter and a neat flip-up seat with a throttle console to hand along with the thruster controls. But what makes the lower helm so good is the tall side door that allows you to jump out on the deck, a perfectly placed spring cleat ready to take a line. 

The clever use of space is evident the moment you step onboard the R-31. The swim platform houses the gas locker, keeping it out of the way and ventilated. Stepping into the cockpit, it’s that use of space again, Ranger’s gunwale seat design folding outboard to create more places for guests without pushing into the deck.

The entire cockpit is sheltered by a GRP overhang, lovingly finished in hessian and teak with downlights for soirées and three hatches that we don’t quite understand but add to that sense of specification.

A neat little sink and separate fridge flank the cockpit along with easy steps up to the decks. Necessity and scale mean that moving forward or up to the flybridge feels a little exposed. There is a useful stainless steel frame to guide you forward or up but the side decks are pretty tight. The port side is easier with a single level to use, the starboard side is split up by the lower helm’s door and footwell. 

Take Command

It is worth the journey forward not only for the great little bench seat and table but also because you get to enjoy the rounded Command Bridge shape. The CB design is as clever as it is charming, with a canvas dodger beneath the helm console that cuts weight and allows you to open up the deck. The weight-saving isn’t just about displacement, the bridge can be hinged and lowered forward for transport, as does the stainless steel mast and the rest of the deck furniture. The dinette seating and its waist-high stanchions might need some getting used to but feels just the right side of fun in an exposed sort of way.

This will be one of the shortest sections ever written under this value section, partly because we covered it in the design section but mainly because the R-31CB is excellent value for money, includes almost everything you want as standard, and goes on to provide low-cost ownership through efficient running and berthing.

Ranger Tugs also publishes pricing for its boats so you can see, unequivocally, what you get and what it costs. For the record, the Ranger Tug’s website currently quotes around $400,000 for a well-spec’d boat.

Our Options

Of the main considerations, we would opt for the 320hp engine, not because of the higher top speed but for the wider cruising range plus the extra horsepower adds nothing to the overall weight, so those looking to tow don’t need to worry.