Brand · 140 hulls on the market

Formula

Live inventory

On the market

140 listings

Want to learn more about Formula?

Talk to a Formula expert — leave your number and a Fly Yachts broker will call you.

Formula is an American powerboat manufacturer specializing in fiberglass recreational cruisers and bowriders, ranging from 33 to 53 feet. Known for blending open-water performance with comfortable cabin accommodations, Formula builds models across three primary categories: Crossover Bowriders (day cruisers with modest sleeping quarters), Super Sport Crossovers (larger express cruisers designed for extended trips), and Performance Cruisers (full-featured vessels for serious offshore use). The brand emphasizes solid construction, practical layouts, and reliable outboard or inboard powertrains suited to both coastal and offshore conditions.

Who is Formula?

Formula has established itself as a builder of mid-range American powerboats with a focus on versatility and seaworthiness. The company's lineup reflects a design philosophy centered on boats that can handle day trips, weekend cruises, and longer passages without sacrificing comfort or ease of operation. Formula yachts for sale typically appeal to buyers seeking a balance between performance, livability, and value—vessels that don't require a full crew but offer enough space and systems for family cruising or entertaining.

The brand's model designations—Crossover Bowrider, Super Sport Crossover, and Performance Cruiser—signal Formula's commitment to clarity and function over marketing mystique. A Crossover Bowrider combines an open bow layout with a modest cabin, making it suitable for day boating and light overnight use. The Super Sport Crossover steps up in size and amenities, targeting buyers who want a true express cruiser. The Performance Cruiser line represents Formula's most serious offshore offering, with deeper hulls, larger fuel capacity, and more comprehensive navigation and safety systems.

What models does Formula make?

Formula's current and recent lineup spans three distinct categories, each with multiple length options:

  • Crossover Bowriders — The 330 and 350 Crossover Bowriders (approximately 35 feet) are entry-level cruisers combining open-air bow seating with a compact cabin. These models suit buyers who prioritize day boating and occasional overnight trips, with straightforward systems and moderate fuel consumption.
  • Super Sport Crossovers — The 380, 430, and 500 Super Sport Crossover models (38 to 53 feet) represent Formula's core offering. These express cruisers feature larger cabins, more galley and head space, and the capacity for extended cruising. The 500 Super Sport Crossover, at 53 feet, is the brand's flagship—a full-featured vessel with multiple staterooms and serious offshore capability.
  • Performance Cruisers — The 34 and 37 Performance Cruiser models (approximately 37 to 43 feet) are designed for buyers prioritizing seaworthiness and range. These hulls are typically deeper and more heavily built than Crossover models, with enhanced fuel capacity and systems redundancy.

Formula offers both outboard and inboard powerplant options depending on model and year. Newer models, particularly the 380 Super Sport Crossover OB, reflect a shift toward modern outboard propulsion, which offers fuel efficiency, reduced maintenance, and easier engine access compared to traditional inboard installations.

How is a Formula built?

Formula boats are constructed using fiberglass composite methods standard to the American recreational boatbuilding industry. The brand emphasizes solid layup techniques and quality control in hull and superstructure fabrication, with attention to structural integrity in high-stress areas such as the keel, chine, and transom.

Formula's engineering approach prioritizes practical systems integration. Fuel tanks, water systems, and electrical architecture are designed for ease of service and redundancy where appropriate. Engine beds and stringers are engineered to handle the stresses of both inboard and outboard powerplants, with modern models showing a preference for outboard installation due to its space efficiency and lower maintenance burden.

Hull design varies by category. Crossover Bowriders typically feature a modified-V or deep-V hull optimized for moderate speeds and fuel economy. Super Sport Crossovers employ more aggressive deep-V designs to handle offshore conditions and higher cruising speeds. Performance Cruisers use the most pronounced V-sections and often incorporate spray rails or other features to manage water flow and reduce pounding in rough seas.

Interior joinery and cabinetry reflect mid-range American standards—solid construction without the hand-finished teak or exotic materials found in European or ultra-premium builders. Galley and head systems are compact but functional, with stainless steel fixtures and marine-grade plumbing.

What does it cost to own a Formula?

Formula yachts for sale typically range from approximately $200,000 for older or smaller Crossover Bowriders to $1.5 million or more for a new 500 Super Sport Crossover. Used models from the 2010s and 2020s represent the largest segment of the secondary market, with pricing reflecting age, engine hours, condition, and equipment.

Ownership costs for a Formula are moderate relative to larger European cruisers. Outboard-powered models (increasingly common in the newer lineup) have lower annual service costs than inboard installations, as outboards require fewer oil changes and less complex winterization. Fuel consumption is reasonable for boats of this size and speed capability, particularly the Crossover Bowriders and smaller Super Sport models.

Parts availability is generally good in North America, where Formula has maintained a dealer network and service infrastructure. Engine parts—whether Yamaha, Mercury, or other OEM suppliers—are widely stocked. Hull and systems components are typically sourced through Formula's parts distribution or through marine suppliers serving fiberglass boats of similar construction.

Resale value for Formula boats is stable but not exceptional. A well-maintained 2015–2018 Super Sport Crossover or Performance Cruiser typically retains 50–65% of its original purchase price after 5–7 years, depending on condition and market demand. Crossover Bowriders, being entry-level, depreciate more steeply in percentage terms but often sell quickly due to their lower absolute price and appeal to first-time cruiser buyers.

Insurance costs are standard for recreational powerboats in the 35–53 foot range, with rates influenced by the owner's boating experience, the boat's age and condition, and the cruising area. Dockage and storage costs vary by region but are typical for boats of this size.

What should buyers look for?

When evaluating a Formula yacht, prioritize a comprehensive marine survey by an independent surveyor experienced with fiberglass powerboats. Pay particular attention to the condition of the hull (checking for cracks, delamination, or soft spots), the integrity of through-hull fittings, and the state of the engine(s) and fuel system.

For older models (pre-2010), verify the service history of the inboard engines and transmission. Overheating, corrosion, and seal failures are common issues in aged marine powerplants. If the boat has been freshwater-only, that is a significant positive indicator. Saltwater exposure accelerates corrosion of aluminum components, stainless steel fittings, and electrical systems.

Examine the cabin sole, cabinetry, and upholstery for signs of water intrusion or mold. Fiberglass boats are vulnerable to moisture penetration around windows, hatches, and deck hardware. Soft spots in the cabin sole or visible mold indicate past or ongoing water damage, which can be expensive to remediate.

Check the condition of through-hull fittings, seacocks, and hoses. Corroded or deteriorated through-hulls are a safety hazard and a common source of expense in older boats. Hoses should be marine-grade and properly clamped; any signs of cracking or separation warrant replacement.

For models with outboard engines, verify the service records and confirm that the engine(s) have been properly winterized and maintained. Outboards are generally more reliable than inboards, but neglect of oil changes or fuel system care can lead to costly repairs.

Evaluate the galley and head systems. Older models may have outdated plumbing or electrical systems that require upgrading. A modern, well-maintained galley and head add significantly to the boat's usability and resale appeal.

Consider the boat's equipment package. Models equipped with GPS chartplotters, autopilot, and modern VHF radios will be more attractive to buyers and easier to sell. Older electronics can be expensive to replace, so factor in upgrade costs if the boat's systems are dated.

For Super Sport Crossovers and Performance Cruisers, confirm that the fuel capacity and range meet your intended cruising profile. Older models may have smaller tanks; newer models typically offer extended range suitable for offshore passages.

Buying a Formula Through Fly Yachts

Fly Yachts maintains active inventory of Formula boats across multiple model lines and years, from entry-level Crossover Bowriders to flagship Super Sport Crossovers. Our team can guide you through the selection process, arrange independent surveys, and handle all aspects of purchase and delivery. Whether you're seeking a weekend cruiser or a capable offshore vessel, we have Formula yachts for sale to match your needs and budget.

From the journal

Articles on Formula

Other builders

Explore similar builders

Sea Ray 488 Azimut 164 Boston Whaler 153 Regal 143 Tiara Yachts 140 Cruisers Yachts 123 Grady-White 114 Beneteau 105 Yellowfin 96 Intrepid 96 Sunseeker 95 Pursuit 94
¿Habla español? (traducción automática)

Hablamos español

Déjenos su número y un broker de Fly Yachts le llamará — en español.