The Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS is a sport luxury crossover designed to bridge the gap between adrenaline-filled performance and the relaxed elegance of day cruising. As part of Cruisers Yachts’ popular GLS lineup, the 38 stands out for its versatility, modern styling, and intuitive use of space. At just under 40 feet, it’s small enough for easy handling yet large enough to offer the luxuries and amenities typically found on bigger express cruisers.

From the moment you step aboard, the 38 GLS feels different. Its open layout, aft beach door, and convertible social spaces give it a yacht-like atmosphere while still delivering the performance expected of a sporty day boat. Whether you envision a day of watersports, a weekend getaway, or a sunset cocktail cruise, the 38 GLS adapts beautifully to the occasion.

Lifestyle Purpose – Why the 38 GLS Exists

The Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS was created with versatility in mind. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about enjoying the entire experience on the water. This boat serves as a multipurpose platform—part day yacht, part sport cruiser, and part entertainment hub. Its open-deck configuration makes socializing effortless, while the overnight accommodations allow for spontaneous weekend adventures.

Another defining feature of the 38 GLS is its ability to transform depending on how you plan to use it. The beach door expands your usable space at anchor, the wet bar keeps gatherings lively, and the joystick docking system makes handling stress-free. For many owners, this flexibility is the biggest reason to choose the GLS series over more specialized designs.

Who Is the 38 GLS Built For?

The 38 GLS is ideal for boaters who enjoy mixing fast-paced fun with refined comfort. If you like watersports during the day and entertaining guests at night, this model suits your lifestyle perfectly. It appeals to couples who want a manageable yacht with overnight capabilities, as well as families looking for a boat that can shift between kid-friendly activities and grown-up entertaining.

Owners who prioritize ease of use will also appreciate the intuitive helm layout, joystick controls, and reliable performance. It’s for those who want something that feels upscale without being intimidating—a boat that can be docked confidently and enjoyed by both new and seasoned boaters alike.

How Does the 38 GLS Compare to Other Offshore Boats?

When compared to similar models in its size range—like the Formula 380 SSC or the Regal 38 SAV—the Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS leans more toward lifestyle versatility than hardcore sport performance. While Formula emphasizes speed and Regal focuses on luxury, the 38 GLS strikes a balance between the two.

The beach door is a standout feature that not every competitor offers, and it makes a major difference when you’re anchored with friends. Add in its clever cockpit design and open feel, and the GLS distinguishes itself as a true crossover that doesn’t compromise one area for the sake of another.

Design & Specifications

• Type: Sport Crossover / Express Cruiser
• Length Overall (LOA): 38 ft 10 in
• Beam: 12 ft 6 in
• Draft: 42 in
• Fuel Capacity: 335 gallons
• Engines: Twin or triple outboards (commonly Mercury Verado or Mercury Racing options)
• Horsepower: Up to 1,200 hp
• Top Speed: Around 50 mph (43+ knots depending on setup)
• Cruise Speed: 30–35 mph (26–30 knots)
• Hull Design: Modified-V planing hull
• Seating Layout: Aft L-shaped lounge, convertible cockpit seating, helm chairs, forward bow seating with table, and galley wet bar

The design philosophy here is centered on openness and adaptability. With nearly 13 feet of beam, the cockpit feels unusually wide for its length, giving everyone space to relax. Inside the cabin, there’s a forward berth and mid-cabin space, allowing overnighting without sacrificing topside livability. The helm is modern and driver-focused, making it easy to transition from a relaxed cocktail cruise to spirited handling at speed.

Performance & Handling

Cruisers Yachts has tuned the 38 GLS for a blend of efficiency and excitement. With twin Mercury 450R outboards, the boat jumps onto plane quickly, delivering strong acceleration and a confident top-end speed near 50 mph. For those who crave more, a triple-engine setup pushes performance even further without compromising stability.

Handling is smooth and predictable, aided by joystick controls that simplify close-quarters maneuvering. The boat responds well at cruising speeds around 30 mph, maintaining a steady ride even in moderate chop. Owners report that the GLS feels more planted than some lighter competitors, giving it an extra sense of security offshore.

Safety & Peace of Mind

Safety is woven into the 38 GLS’s design. High rails, non-skid decking, and wide walkways allow guests to move confidently around the boat. The cockpit is deep enough to feel secure, especially for families with children, while the beach door has built-in safety interlocks for controlled operation.

On the performance side, reliable Mercury power combined with intuitive controls gives peace of mind, even for less-experienced captains. Like any boat of this size, owners should stay mindful of fuel planning and weight distribution, but overall the 38 GLS inspires confidence whether at anchor or underway.

Drawbacks to Consider

The 38 GLS is impressive, but it does come with considerations. First, while it offers overnight accommodations, they are compact compared to larger express cruisers. Couples will find them comfortable, but families planning extended stays may want more space.

Another factor is cost. Between the premium finish, high-performance outboards, and unique features like the beach door, this model sits at the higher end of its category. Additionally, while versatile, buyers who are strictly performance-focused might lean toward models with slightly faster top speeds in the same size range.

Features That Make It Shine

• Beach Door: Expands usable space and creates a waterside lounge unlike anything else in its size range.
• Entertainment Hub: Cockpit wet bar, ample seating, and convertible lounge make it easy to host gatherings.
• Cabin Comfort: Forward berth, mid-cabin, and enclosed head offer weekend-ready accommodations.
• Technology: Joystick docking, large touchscreen helm displays, and premium audio systems enhance the user experience.

Together, these features turn the 38 GLS into more than a day boat—it becomes a floating social platform that doesn’t compromise on performance.

What Owners Are Saying

Reviews from owners highlight how versatile the boat feels. Many praise the beach door for transforming the boat at anchor, while others appreciate how straightforward it is to dock with joystick controls. The blend of social spaces and cabin comfort consistently earns positive feedback.

Some owners note that they spend most of their time topside, using the cabin only occasionally, which reinforces the GLS’s role as a day-oriented cruiser with weekend capability. Overall, the consensus is that the 38 GLS delivers exactly what it promises: performance, luxury, and adaptability.

Storage and Ownership Costs

The 38 GLS has been designed with plenty of storage solutions. From cockpit lockers to under-seat compartments, there’s space for watersports gear, provisions, and personal items. The cabin storage makes weekend packing easier, while the cockpit layout ensures day boating essentials are always close at hand.

Ownership costs include fuel, slip fees, and routine maintenance. With twin or triple outboards, service costs are higher than a single-engine cruiser, but they also provide redundancy and peace of mind offshore. Insurance and dockage are in line with other premium boats in this category, making overall costs predictable for seasoned boaters.

Final Thoughts

The 2023 Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS is a boat built for versatility, combining the performance of a sport boat with the comfort and luxury of a day cruiser. Its standout features, such as the innovative beach door and wide cockpit layout, make it an excellent option for those who prioritize both entertainment and performance.

It’s not the cheapest or the largest in its class, but it may be the most well-rounded. For boaters who want a yacht that feels equally at home at speed, at anchor, or tucked into a weekend marina slip, the 38 GLS is hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS have overnight accommodations?
Yes. It features a forward berth and a mid-cabin area, making it suitable for couples or small families on weekend trips.

How many engines does the 38 GLS have?
It can be equipped with twin or triple outboards, typically Mercury Verado or Mercury Racing engines.

Is the beach door safe for kids?
Yes. The beach door has built-in safety interlocks to prevent accidental operation and is designed for controlled use.

What is the cruising speed of the 38 GLS?
The boat performs best at 30–35 mph, offering efficiency and comfort while still covering plenty of ground.

How does it compare to similar boats?
The 38 GLS stands out for its lifestyle versatility and unique beach door feature, whereas some competitors focus more narrowly on either speed or luxury.

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