Introduction to the Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS Outboard
The Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS Outboard is made to bring together the things that matter most for anyone who enjoys life on the water—reliability, simplicity, comfort, and flexible space for fun and relaxation. Its design focuses on giving owners the freedom to make each trip their own, whether that means easy afternoons, active days, or casual gatherings with family and friends. The 38 GLS Outboard is set up so one person can handle most tasks but is big enough to feel at home for a group. This model stands out because it puts useful features first, with a layout that avoids getting in the way and amenities that help you enjoy every part of an outing. Everything you see and touch is chosen to be both comfortable and practical, from the arrangement of seating to the way storage is set up for gear and supplies. People pick this model when they want straight-forward boating with practical storage, powerful engines, and an easy-to-understand deck plan.
Key Dimensions, Performance, and General Layout
With a length overall of about 38 feet and a beam of 12 feet 6 inches, the Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS Outboard delivers a footprint that feels big for its class. The triple outboard engine configuration is a leading choice, usually with Mercury 350s, bringing an appealing mix of good top-end speed, quick acceleration, and reliable cruising power. The hull is shaped for both stability and fuel efficiency, which makes the boat suitable for new owners as well as those returning for something modern and straightforward. A fuel capacity of 300 gallons means you can plan longer trips without as much worry about fuel stops. The freshwater tank holds 50 gallons, and the holding tank carries 31 gallons, balancing the needs of both short and longer day trips. The wide swim platform with a folding terrace gives even more real estate for relaxing, launching water toys, or enjoying the scenery, and the deep freeboard adds a layer of safety for both adults and kids.
Open Social Zones and Soothing Cockpit Features
From the transom to the bow, the 38 GLS Outboard offers a social layout that also respects personal space. The main cockpit starts with a U-shaped lounge around a table, designed to seat friends and family for snacks, games, or casual meals. The wet bar setup comes standard with a stainless sink, refrigerator, available electric grill, and lots of counter space for serving or prepping food. You can reach storage bins underneath the seats and in the close-at-hand floor lockers without having to step on cushions, which keeps the area tidy. The folding terrace is a favorite among families, as it expands deck space and sits right at water level, making it easy to board water toys or just relax close to the surface. With non-skid fiberglass underfoot, people can move around confidently, even with wet feet or sandals. Built-in cupholders, phone holders, and USB charging ports line the cockpit, so essentials stay close and dry. Overhead, a fiberglass hardtop provides shade and can be fitted with sunshades or canvas panels for more coverage.
The Bow Area: Comfort for Guests, Convenience for Owners
A wide walkway with a secure handrail leads to the bow lounge, which is one of the most popular spots on the 38 GLS Outboard. The seating here wraps around the front, so guests can stretch out or sit together for good conversation while underway or at anchor. Under the cushions, there’s deep storage for life jackets, towels, extra lines, or large bags. The forward seats are wrapped in comfortable, marine-quality vinyl and offer armrests, built-in cupholders, and ports for charging devices. Adjustable backrests make it easy to turn the area into a sunpad, and a canvas sunshade can be pulled over the bow for full protection on sunny days. With speakers and personal lights set at each side, the bow is as friendly at night as during the day. The full walk-through windshield gives shelter from wind while running at higher speeds; it can be locked to keep the cockpit dry if waves kick up.
Cabin Spaces: Rest, Privacy, and Practical Comfort
Moving below deck, the 38 GLS Outboard features a spacious, climate-controlled cabin with smart lighting and big side windows that let in plenty of natural light. The main berth is designed for two adults, with a real queen-sized mattress, and the settee can be converted to an extra sleeping space for kids or one more guest. Soft surfaces, easy-to-clean vinyl, and deeper carpets give the space a cozy feel without needing high maintenance. There’s a galley with a compact microwave, mini fridge, and sink; you can store snacks, drinks, or ready-to-eat food for longer stays. The head (bathroom) comes with a modern toilet, separate stand-up shower (with full privacy door), and plenty of places to hang towels or wet swimsuits out to dry. LED lighting lines the ceiling and wall panels for safe movement at night. The air conditioning system is sized to keep things cool even in the warmest conditions, and screened portholes mean you can also enjoy fresh air if you prefer. The storage below includes shelving, a hanging locker for clothes, and deep under-bunk drawers that fit larger bags.
Helm Station and Technology
Driving the 38 GLS Outboard is straightforward thanks to a modern helm that brings together everything in one accessible area. The seat is fully adjustable, with a bolster for standing or sitting and plenty of elbow room. Twin Simrad multi-function touchscreens are easy to read in bright sun, giving direct access to navigation, engine stats, mapping, and live monitoring. The digital switching system lets you click on or off things like lights, pumps, and fans with the push of a button rather than old-style rocker switches. A joystick control system takes the stress out of docking, letting you handle tight spaces with fingertip precision and reducing worry about crosswinds or tight slips. The tilt steering wheel and stacked throttle controls are set up so left or right-handed users are comfortable. There are dual VHF radios for communication and a wireless phone charger right at the helm to keep your device powered. The helm is also covered, so you can drive in comfort no matter the weather.
Safety You Can See and Feel
The 38 GLS Outboard is made with safety as a core part of every feature. Nonskid materials on the deck, well-placed grab rails, and wide side walkthroughs keep everyone steady as they move about. Navigation and anchor lights are LED for maximum visibility. There are fire extinguishers in marked bins, carbon monoxide alarms inside the cabin, and quick-access panels for fuses and all important systems. All fuel lines, batteries, and electrical wires are clearly labeled, so they can be easily checked and replaced. The swim ladder at the stern is sturdy and dips deep into the water, making it easy for everyone—including kids and older guests—to get back on board. The cockpit and bow both have gates to prevent falls underway. Safety gear lockers include space for Type I life jackets, throwable cushions, and flares, all within quick reach so you comply with regulations without cluttering up the cabin or deck.
Organization: Everything in Its Place
One of the ways the 38 GLS Outboard keeps outings smooth is by making sure everything has a set place. Under-seat storage runs the length of both cockpit and bow lounges, while in-floor lockers are deep and wide for wakeboards, water skis, or fender storage. Dedicated anchor lockers are at the bow, and rope bins keep lines coiled and ready. The cabin holds extra gear out of sight, with shelving built for dry bags, duffels, and even a cooler nook. Each wet bar and galley feature has pull-out drawers and bins for cups, plates, grilling utensils, and snacks. You’ll find separate spaces for waste and recycling so clean-up is straightforward. The designers made sure that even when the boat is full, things are manageable and nobody trips on bags or toys.
Cockpit Amenities and Entertainment
The Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS Outboard is set up so the good times start the minute you step aboard, with multiple entertainment and comfort features. The cockpit table is solid and stable, and is removable for open deck space when you want to dance or lounge. The wet bar area can handle everything from built-in blenders to portable ice makers. Refrigerators keep drinks cold and extra fresh produce at hand for easy snacking. There’s extra space under the counter for a garbage bin and a drawer for cutlery or utensils. The grill, when fitted, runs on easy-to-change portable tanks, and a sink with two spray settings makes rinsing simple. A dedicated speaker system is set in both the cockpit and bow lounge, controlled by a Bluetooth-ready main system at the helm, allowing you to pick music that matches your mood. Outlets and USB ports beside every lounge make it simple to charge devices, run portable fans, or keep a laptop powered if you need to work on the go.
Efficient Power and Performance
The 38 GLS Outboard’s triple engine setup brings a good blend of power for fast runs, quiet operation, and fuel efficiency. Owners most often select triple Mercury 350 outboards, known for their reliability and simple maintenance. With these engines, you get fast acceleration on plane, making water sports, towing, or brisk cruising comfortable and predictable. The outboards themselves are efficient and easier to maintain than some larger alternatives; they come with digital throttle and shift, linked steering, and electronic trim tabs for a smooth, level ride. Engine info is viewed on the helm display, so you always know your RPM, speed, temperature, and fuel use. With a 300-gallon fuel tank, you can cover long stretches or enjoy a day full of activities without refueling. Triple engine setups also allow for redundancy, so you get home safely if a single engine needs maintenance.
Designed for All-Day Cruising and Relaxation
This boat’s layout and equipment choices support everything from quick day trips to overnight stays. Wide, padded seating lets groups settle in for hours. Foldaway tables, armrests, and shaded sections make sure there’s always a comfortable spot. The head compartment and galley mean kids or adults can nap, eat, or freshen up without leaving the boat. Swim platforms, safe steps, and side terraces mean you can lounge near the water, host a group meal, or just stretch out and enjoy the view. Everything cleans up easily, and nothing about the boat’s design feels fussy or hard to use.
Flexible Seating and Socializing Options
The 38 GLS Outboard makes it easy for everyone to find a comfortable place. The U-shaped lounge in the cockpit lets six to eight people dine together, or converts for sunbathing. Removable tables are lightweight but stable, so moving things around is a one-person job. The bow lounge has room for four adults to stretch out, plus space for kids, all separated from the wind behind a tempered-glass windshield. The cabin can become private with a sliding door, which is handy if someone needs a nap or a quiet call. Multiple entry points—including the swim platform and side gate—allow different groups to board or move about without feeling crowded. Shade can be created on demand with pull-out canvas covers, UV-protected for long life.
Bathing, Showers, and Swim Terrace Details
Easy water access turns a regular outing into a fun afternoon. The wide swim platform and extra folding terrace sit almost at water level. There’s a telescoping swim ladder with wide, comfortable rungs and an integrated handrail. The transom shower provides hot and cold water, keeping sand, salt, and mud off the deck and out of the cabin. The wet bar is within reach of the swim platform, so cold drinks are always close at hand. The cockpit floors have drains for quick post-swim clean-ups, and the flooring is textured to prevent slips. For those who want to stay close to the water, the folding terrace holds chairs, beach towels, and coolers for easy shore-style enjoyment away from the beach.
Overnight Stays and Onboard Comfort
Overnighting on the Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS Outboard is comfortable for couples or small families. The main cabin’s queen bed is easy to access, with memory-foam mattresses, reading lights, and ventilated window panels. The convertible dinette becomes a second bed if children or friends stay over. There’s a private shower with a real door and a quiet-flush marine toilet. The air conditioning and zoned lighting mean there’s always a comfortable temperature and atmosphere inside. In the morning, you can open the windows for a cross-breeze or use the galley for a quick breakfast. Sturdy latches keep all cabinets secure while underway, and the underfloor storage bins are big enough for bedding, overnight bags, and two carry-on suitcases.
Reliable Fresh and Wastewater Systems
Fresh water is easy to access throughout the boat thanks to a 50-gallon supply with a pressurized pump. Sinks in the galley, wet bar, shower, and at the transom use this system so cleanup is always an option. The 31-gallon holding tank is vented and easy to pump out at docks, with clear labels so there’s never confusion. All plumbing uses color-coded lines and quick connections in case something needs to be changed or checked. Filters under the galley sink keep drinking water clean, and drains are properly angled so waste water goes right to the holding tank without pooling in the cabin or on deck.
Practical Use for Every Outing
Whether you want to anchor out or tie up at the dock, the 38 GLS Outboard is made to make every outing smooth. Wide, stable steps at the bow and stern mean kids can get aboard on their own. The anchor locker is deep and stores both rope and chain, with power windlass options for easy set and retrieval. Docking lines are kept in a bin next to each cleat, so you don’t have to search when you’re coming or going. Bumpers and fenders hang easily from mounted holders. The outboards can be trimmed up for shallow-water beaching, and their placement opens up the transom area for fun or utility.
Lighting and Power Throughout
LED lights provide full deck and cabin illumination. Accent lighting under gunnels and in the cockpit keeps walkways clear after dark. Cabin reading lights are adjustable at every berth, and a nightlight feature cuts down on bumps during midnight snacks. The 38 GLS Outboard has onboard power outlets—including 110V in the cabin and cockpit for blenders, laptops, or chargers, with extra 12V and USB options in bow, helm, and wet bar areas. Batteries are isolated and protected beneath the cockpit floor, with clear switches to control them and a dedicated charger for shore power at the dock. Emergency battery cutoffs are labeled for peace of mind.
Custom Options and Owner Preferences
Buyers can choose from several finishes and feature options to match the way they want to use the boat. Some add a second refrigerator, extra deck speakers, or an upgraded grill. Seat color options, canvas colors, and wood trim choices let the boat fit your style. There are packages for fishing or for extended stays, including rod holders, extra water storage, or portable coolers. Safety upgrades, like more grab rails or advanced lighting, are also available. Owners who want to make their 38 GLS Outboard unique can add underwater lights, extra swim ladders, and satellite radio options.
Organization for Long Day Trips
For longer days out, the storage plan helps keep everything organized. Large in-floor bins hold wakeboards, floats, and beach gear. Dedicated cabinets keep sunscreen, hats, and first aid in one spot. The galley and wet bar each have bins for snacks and drinks. Even with the boat full of guests, bags and gear fit into lockers beneath seats—nothing has to clutter the decks. The windlass locker at the bow includes space for extra lines, so you can anchor up in new territory without trouble. The holding tank and fresh water setup mean nobody has to return to the dock just for supplies during a regular day trip.
Weather Protection Features
Weather can change quickly and the 38 GLS Outboard is ready for that. The standard fiberglass hardtop shields guests from unexpected rain or midday sun. Pull-out canvas sides create a full enclosure in the cockpit for cold or wet days. Windshields are tall, curved, and come with wipers for full visibility during storms. The deck drains quickly after rain, with channels along the walkway so water never pools. The cockpit air conditioner means you can escape heat or humidity, while built-in vents let fresh air in as temperatures drop.
Family and Kid-Friendly Layout
Parents and grandparents often describe this boat as one of the best for comfortable, safe outings with kids. The folding terrace and low swim platform mean children can splash and play with less risk than other models. Wide passageways and padded grab rails give them stability when moving about. The secure bow and cockpit gates keep small children from wandering too close to the water when underway. The head offers space for changing out of wet swimsuits and rinsing sand off before heading home. The storage is deep and out of the way, keeping trip hazards to a minimum. Kids also love the ease of access to snacks, a shaded space to nap, and an entertainment system for music or movies.
Handling and Onboard Navigation
A mix of traditional and modern navigation features put creativity in the owner’s hands. The twin touchscreen Simrad units guide you using GPS, charts, and sonar. Depth sounders help with finding secure anchorages, and temperature sensors track both water and air. The joystick docking system lets you slide the boat sideways or spin in tight spots—helpful in crowded marinas or windy conditions. Auto pilot, if selected, can hold course while you relax. The helm switches are sealed and backlit, so they’re easy to use at night. All navigation lights meet required brightness and angle standards so you are visible to others.
Water Activities: From Relaxing To Action Packed
With the 38 GLS Outboard, you can move easily from quiet lounging to action on the water. Steps and handrails lead from the cockpit to the swim deck, where stand-up paddleboards, tubes, or kayaks can be launched in minutes. Holders on the transom store these toys until you’re ready, and the side terrace gives a jump-off point for swimmers. There’s a tow point for wakeboards and inflatables, and the outboards make for a quiet ride for those being towed. Rope lockers and tie-off points are placed to minimize clutter. A water hose on deck makes it easy to rinse equipment down. The anchor system means you can drop in deeper water for swimming or fishing, and storage bins keep rods, tackle, and water sports gear dry and organized.
Simple Maintenance and Owner Upkeep
Owners appreciate that most cleaning jobs on the 38 GLS Outboard take less than an hour. Vinyl upholstery wipes clean with standard boat soap. Decks can be sprayed down, with all water channeled to the drains. Filters and pumps are placed in easy-to-reach spots just under the cockpit floor. Wiring diagrams are posted inside engine hatches for quick DIY checks. The outboards tilt out of water when not in use, guarding against salt buildup. Hardware and hinges are stainless steel, requiring minimal polish. Each owner receives a full manual with diagrams and service intervals, reducing confusion about upkeep and care.
Travel, Mooring, and Docking
For trips away from your home marina, the 38 GLS Outboard makes traveling straightforward. The outboards reduce draft, so exploring shallow coves or quiet bays is on the agenda. Fenders fit standard holders and tie easily from both port and starboard sides. Wide rub rails guard against dock bumps. There’s room to load coolers, groceries, and luggage for a weekend run. Driving onto a trailer is easy if needed, and the folding hardtop reduces transport height for short-haul towing. All controls for lights, radio, pumps, and engines are marked so a new skipper can learn them in a few minutes.
Night Use and Lighting
At night, the 38 GLS Outboard’s lights make the deck and cabin safe for everyone. Walkways, steps, and doorways all have foot-level lighting so there’s no risk of stubbing a toe or missing a step. The transom and swim platform are ringed with subtle blue LEDs, guiding swimmers or guests back after sunset. The cabin beds and convertible dinette both have overhead reading lights, set on dimmer switches for late-night relaxation. Cockpit and helm lighting are indirect, cutting glare but letting everyone see what they need. If the mood calls for it, the sound system has both inside and outside speakers, so you can play music or connect to a portable projector for movie nights.
Everyday Practical Features Owners Notice
Owners say the small conveniences stand out. Things like a dedicated spot for shoes at the main entry, towel hooks near the swim platform, and a padded armrest at the helm are appreciated. Shallow bins along the cockpit gunnels are perfect for sunblock and wet hats. Support steps—set at kid and adult heights—help everyone get in and out of the water. Trash and recycling bins, both in the galley and cockpit, slide out so they’re tucked away when not in use. Access panels are held with simple fasteners, making engine checks and service less of a chore.
Details About Construction and Durability
The 38 GLS Outboard uses a hand-laid fiberglass hull bonded with marine-grade adhesives. That gives a strong, quiet ride that handles waves and chop comfortably. Stringers and subfloor supports are glassed in, so decks do not flex underfoot. All hardware is marine-grade stainless steel. Console and dash mounts use shock-absorbent material, which protects electronics. Deck hatches and windows have double gaskets for leak prevention, while clear labeling helps owners easily find valves and circuit breakers. Deck and swim platform hardware are through-bolted, not screwed into, for lasting security.
How the 38 GLS Outboard Works for Every Boater
This model is made to welcome both experienced owners and those new to boating. Simple, clear controls help new users operate safe and confidently. Owners with families focus on the way space adapts to kids, teens, and adults. Groups of friends or entertaining hosts appreciate the way seating and deck layouts support any kind of gathering—from quiet coffee mornings to energetic water sports afternoons. Couples who travel overnight note the privacy and comfort of the main cabin and how the layout makes sharing the space easy.
Wrapping Up
There’s a reason many boaters searching for a comfortable, practical, and flexible experience choose the Cruisers Yachts 38 GLS Outboard. It balances modern features with practical storage, safe layout, and all-day comfort. The cockpit, bow, and cabin blend together without wasted space or awkward transitions. If you want a boat that adapts to different days, is easy to learn, and makes time on the water truly enjoyable, the 38 GLS Outboard stands out. Reach out to a Fly Yachts team member today for help exploring how this model could be the right fit for what you have in mind.
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