NAVIGATE

Compass Articles

Let our articles be your compass to a world of nautical elegance and adventure.

Cruisers Yachts 390 Express Coupe Review – Full Specs, Performance, and Features Explained

The Cruisers Yachts 390 Express Coupe is a model that proves mid-size luxury cruising can still feel expansive and versatile. Known for its clever use of space, inviting design, and smooth performance, this express cruiser has become a favorite among boaters looking for a yacht that is equally at home entertaining guests at the dock or venturing out for an overnight cruise. At nearly 40 feet, the 390 Express Coupe stands out for its wide beam, customizable cockpit, and thoughtful interior layout that makes the most of every square inch.

Cruisers Yachts, a brand celebrated for blending Midwest craftsmanship with forward-thinking design, positioned the 390 Express Coupe to appeal to those who want the freedom of an open-air boat without giving up the comforts of a cabin. With its convertible cockpit seating, retractable roof, and well-appointed cabin, this boat is as much about flexibility as it is about luxury.

Designed for Flexible Adventures

The purpose of the 390 Express Coupe is clear: to give boaters a platform that can do a little bit of everything well. It’s large enough to feel like a true yacht, yet nimble enough to handle like a sport cruiser. The open cockpit and salon-like atmosphere make it perfect for hosting dockside gatherings, while the comfortable cabin and galley encourage extended stays on the water.

For boaters who value weekend getaways, it strikes a sweet spot. You get an express cruiser that’s big enough for overnight comfort but not so large that it becomes a challenge to dock or maintain. That balance is what has made the 390 one of Cruisers Yachts’ most popular models.

Who Is the Cruisers Yachts 390 Express Coupe For?

This yacht is aimed at owners who want a social boat as much as they want a performance cruiser. It works wonderfully for:

  • Couples looking for a stylish boat that doubles as a weekend retreat.
  • Families who want open-air fun during the day and cabin comfort at night.
  • Entertainers who enjoy dockside gatherings, sunset cruises, and easy weekend trips.
  • Boaters stepping up from a smaller cruiser but not ready for a 45–50 foot yacht.

With its open design and convertible cockpit, it’s especially well-suited to boaters in warmer climates who want to maximize outdoor living space.

How Does the 390 Express Coupe Compare to Other Offshore Boats?

When placed alongside other yachts in its size range, such as the Sea Ray Sundancer 370 or Regal 38 Grande Coupe, the 390 Express Coupe distinguishes itself with its open cockpit design and impressive beam. Where some competitors feel more closed-in, the Cruisers Yachts layout emphasizes connection with the outdoors.

Performance-wise, it doesn’t aim to be the fastest in its class, but it balances efficiency, comfort, and handling with confidence. Owners often choose the 390 over its rivals for its blend of social spaces and practical cabin features—something that many competitors compromise on.

Full Specifications and Layout

  • Type: Express Coupe Cruiser
  • Length Overall (LOA): 39 feet 3 inches
  • Beam: 12 feet 8 inches
  • Draft: 3 feet 5 inches
  • Fuel Capacity: 230 gallons
  • Engines: Twin sterndrive or IPS pod drive options, typically Volvo Penta or MerCruiser, ranging 380–430 HP each
  • Horsepower: 760–860 total HP
  • Top Speed: 35–40 knots depending on configuration
  • Cruise Speed: 24–28 knots
  • Hull Design: Modified V-hull designed for stability and efficiency
  • Seating Layout: Expansive cockpit with modular lounges, helm seating, aft dining area, retractable roof system, and forward cabin with convertible berths

The cockpit is the showpiece of the 390 Express Coupe. The modular seating system allows owners to configure it for lounging, dining, or sunbathing. The retractable hardtop blurs the line between inside and out, giving flexibility for different weather conditions. Below deck, the cabin includes a full galley, forward berth, mid-cabin sleeping quarters, and a surprisingly roomy head.

On-Water Performance and Handling

The 390 Express Coupe isn’t marketed as a speed demon, but it offers a ride that feels composed and enjoyable. With twin sterndrives or IPS pod drives, handling is smooth, docking is stress-free, and fuel economy is respectable for its size.

At cruising speeds, the yacht is quiet enough to allow easy conversation in the cockpit, and at full throttle, it has more than enough punch to satisfy recreational boaters. It’s not going to rival a high-performance center console, but that’s not its mission. Instead, it’s about balance—fast enough to cover miles quickly, efficient enough for weekend cruising, and steady enough for passengers to feel comfortable.

Safety and Owner Considerations

Cruisers Yachts integrates practical safety features into the 390, including wide side decks with grab rails, non-skid surfaces, and high bow rails for security when moving forward. Visibility at the helm is excellent thanks to large glass panels and the retractable roof. With pod drive configurations, the joystick control makes docking straightforward, which is a huge confidence booster for newer yacht owners.

The yacht’s systems are also laid out with serviceability in mind. Access to engines and mechanical systems is better than average for boats in this size class, reducing the headaches of routine maintenance.

What Buyers Should Know

While the 390 Express Coupe offers an incredible mix of features, prospective buyers should be aware of a few considerations:

  • Cabin size: While spacious for its class, taller owners may find the forward berth a little compact compared to larger yachts.
  • Range: With a 230-gallon fuel tank, long offshore passages are limited; this is a coastal cruiser more than a transoceanic vessel.
  • Customization: Options abound, but choosing upgrades can quickly push pricing closer to larger yachts in the 42–45 foot category.

These points don’t detract from the appeal, but they help set realistic expectations for ownership.

Features That Stand Out

  • Retractable hardtop with expansive glass for natural light.
  • Flexible cockpit with seating that transforms for different occasions.
  • Spacious swim platform for water access.
  • Full galley with refrigerator, stove, and microwave for extended stays.
  • Modern helm with dual displays, joystick docking, and integrated controls.
  • Two sleeping areas, including a mid-cabin, for comfortable overnight trips.

Together, these features make the yacht feel like a floating condo that can adapt to any occasion.

Owner Feedback and Impressions

Owners consistently highlight the social nature of the cockpit and the ease of entertaining aboard the 390 Express Coupe. Many note that it feels larger than its listed size thanks to the wide beam and clever layout.

Cruisers Yachts has also earned praise for build quality and after-sale support, which gives buyers confidence in their investment. For boaters stepping up from smaller cruisers, the transition feels natural, with the joystick system easing the challenges of docking and maneuvering.

Ownership Costs and Maintenance

The 390 Express Coupe sits in a price range where ownership is attainable without reaching superyacht levels. Buyers can expect pricing in the $750,000–$900,000 range depending on engine choice and options.

Annual costs include:

  • Dockage: Around $6,000–$10,000 depending on marina location.
  • Fuel: Average consumption at cruise speed will depend on engine setup, but owners often report reasonable efficiency compared to rivals.
  • Maintenance: Routine servicing of twin engines, plus upkeep of systems like the retractable roof and electronics.
  • Insurance: Typically in the mid-range for yachts under 40 feet.

The good news is that resale values for well-kept Cruisers Yachts models remain strong, making ownership less of a financial risk compared to some competitors.

Final Thoughts

The Cruisers Yachts 390 Express Coupe is a mid-size yacht that punches above its weight in terms of design, flexibility, and comfort. It’s not meant to be an offshore rocket, but it isn’t trying to be—it’s meant to provide a stylish, adaptable cruising platform that feels welcoming whether you’re spending a day at the dock or a weekend exploring coastal waters.

For buyers seeking a yacht that combines modern styling, social flexibility, and approachable handling, the 390 Express Coupe is an easy model to recommend. It delivers an experience that feels larger than life in a package that’s still manageable and enjoyable.

FAQ

Does the 390 Express Coupe have overnight accommodations?
Yes, the cabin includes a forward berth and a mid-cabin sleeping space, allowing comfortable overnight stays for up to four people.

Is joystick docking standard on this yacht?
While not always standard, most models are equipped with joystick docking through IPS pods or sterndrives, making maneuvering much easier.

What makes the cockpit unique?
The cockpit’s modular seating allows owners to configure it for sunbathing, dining, or lounging, offering flexibility few competitors match.

How does it handle in rough water?
With its wide beam and modified V-hull, the yacht feels stable and composed in moderate chop, though it is best suited for coastal cruising rather than long offshore passages.

What kind of boater is best suited for the 390 Express Coupe?
It’s perfect for social boaters who prioritize entertaining and comfort while still wanting performance and ease of handling.

Fly Yachts provides a full range of services, starting with a large inventory of yachts for sale and information about luxury yachts, super yachts, and center consoles, all easily found from their homepage. To learn about their company history, team, and expert knowledge, check their About Us page, and if you want a custom yacht built, visit Build a Yacht. They feature travel options to various charter destinations around the world and list many yachts charter choices for private bookings. If you want to sell your vessel, the Sell Your Yacht page explains their process and support. For private aviation, they offer a selection of aircraft for sale. You can stay up to date on industry updates and company activities on the Gulfstream News page, and find yachting tips or advice in their Compass Articles. For any help or to get in touch, you can use the Contact page.

Why Choose Us?

Our experienced brokers combine deep industry knowledge with genuine care to help you find the perfect yacht.

Newsletter

Contact Us

Want to Learn More?