Introduction: Meeting the Needs of Today’s Boaters

Choosing the right boat starts by knowing what you truly want out of your time on the water. For many owners, that means balancing comfort, ease of handling, performance, smart use of space, and the ability to entertain or relax as plans demand. The Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS Outboard is designed with these needs in mind, delivering a boat that is practical, well-equipped, and easy for families and friends to enjoy. With its open lounging areas, modern technologies, and triple-engine power, this boat has earned a strong reputation for offering a little bit of everything without forcing you to choose between style and functionality. In this article, we break down the specifics of the 42 GLS Outboard so you can decide how its features fit your boating needs.

Key Specs and Dimensions

One of the first things most buyers want to know about a boat is how much space it provides. The Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS Outboard measures 42 feet 6 inches in overall length and has a generous beam of 13 feet. The draft varies from about 30 inches with outboards up to roughly 42 inches depending on engine trim, making it great for getting into shallower anchorages, sandbars, and closer to your favorite beach spots. The boat’s dry weight comes in at around 23,500 pounds, depending on optional equipment, with a fuel capacity of 400 gallons—enough for full-day runs or cruising to your weekend destinations. An onboard freshwater tank holds 50 gallons and the waste tank is sized for longer trips, so you don’t have to cut outings short because of capacity limits. The transom deadrise is 21°, which means it can handle choppy waters more comfortably than flatter-bottomed boats and still offer stability while guests walk around on deck.

More Specs at a Glance

• Overall Length (LOA): 42’6” (12.95 m)
• Beam: 13’0” (3.96 m)
• Draft up (engines raised): 30” (0.76 m)
• Draft down (engines lowered): 42” (1.07 m)
• Bridge clearance with hardtop: about 13’0” (4 m)
• Fuel Capacity: 400 gal (1,514 L)
• Water Capacity: 50 gal (189 L)
• Waste Capacity: 31 gal (117 L)
• Dry Weight (approx.): 23,500 lbs (10,659 kg)
• Max Passenger Capacity: 12 (varies with local regulations)

Understanding these measurements is important for trailering, slip selection, bridge passage, and for ensuring the boat fits your local boating environment.

Behind the Helm: Operation for New and Experienced Boaters

The heart of the 42 GLS Outboard’s user-friendliness starts at the helm. Designers put major controls and electronics within easy reach of the captain, so running the boat is as simple as possible. Large Simrad touchscreens handle navigation, engine diagnostics, digital switching for lights and pumps, and can display radar when installed. All engine operations are managed through Mercury’s Joystick Piloting systems, which allow even those with limited experience to easily maneuver—move sideways, spin in place, or inch forward without complicated throttle and steering coordination. The system integrates with a digital anchor feature, so you can hold the boat’s position at crowded sandbars without dropping a physical anchor. Additional controls for the bow thruster—a separate small motor at the nose—provide another layer of precision, especially while docking in wind or current.

The steering wheel is adjustable and paired with ergonomic captain’s chairs, each with flip-up bolsters, providing options to stand or sit while underway. USB ports and 12V outlets make it easy to charge devices at the helm. Access to wiring, fuses, and breaker panels is close by for quick checks.

Hull Design and Performance Testing

The hull of the 42 GLS Outboard is made with fiberglass using vacuum-infusion for added strength and reduced weight. This construction method produces a stiffer hull with fewer voids, which boosts performance and comfort. On the water, owners have noted that the deep-V hull slices through wakes and chop with confidence. With triple Mercury outboards—most commonly 300 or 400 horsepower each—you get powerful acceleration. Standard configurations with triple 300s can reach mid-40 mph top speeds depending on load, while triple 400s will push over 50 mph. The hull’s performance is tuned for a mix of on-plane comfort and stability at anchor, making it just as good for running up the coastline as it is for relaxing in a quiet cove.

Planing is quick, with the boat reaching 20-25 mph in about 6 seconds depending on conditions. The hull’s balance allows stable turns at cruising speeds, with minimal heel even when cornering. Spray is kept low, so guests stay drier and the ride is less noisy. Owners regularly report that the hull gives them the confidence to stay out even when conditions are less than perfect.

Power and Systems: Engine and Fuel Management

Triple outboards are not just about speed—they provide redundancy and safety, as well as shallow-water access. Each of the three Mercury Verado engines can be trimmed up individually for beaching or cruising over shallow areas. Each engine draws from a shared fuel supply, so there’s no risk of running one engine dry while the others remain full. Mercury’s electronic throttle and shift ensures responsive, smooth shifting, while digital displays show current fuel burns, range estimates, and maintenance reminders in real-time.

Routine engine maintenance is as streamlined as possible, with wide openings at the transom for checking oil, replacing fuel filters, and flushing the cooling system after each use. Mercury’s onboard systems, when paired with Simrad displays, notify owners of scheduled service and any warnings, reducing downtime and making seasonal upkeep straightforward.

Bow Lounge and Entertaining Spaces

Another major strength of the 42 GLS Outboard is its attention to outdoor living space. The bow seating is accessed safely from the port side, with high rails and deep walkways for sure footing. The bow settee wraps around the perimeter and can be converted into a sun lounge or split into two facing benches for more formal seating during cocktails or when enjoying the view underway.

Cup holders, removable tables, and lighting are all in place, with built-in speakers extending the stereo zone forward so everyone can hear the music. Integrated storage below the seats makes stowing life jackets, towels, or extra cushions easy. Pop-up LED lights allow for nighttime use without casting harsh glare, making this area comfortable after dark.

Cockpit: Social Center of the Boat

The cockpit design is open and spacious, set for maximum comfort regardless of group size. The U-shaped seating at the rear is not only plush but modular: you can move the backrests to expand seating facing forward or aft, and armrests include built-in cupholders. The wet bar behind the helm includes a solid-surface countertop, sink, Kenyon grill, fridge, ice maker, and dedicated storage for plates, utensils, and cleaning supplies. This setup allows you to prepare full meals or simple snacks with ease, keeping the activity centered on deck so guests don’t have to leave the gathering to eat or prepare refreshments.

A stainless-steel safety rail wraps the bar, providing both security when moving through the cockpit and a place to lean while conversing. Waste bins and dedicated recycling storage are tucked alongside, supporting clean-up without detracting from the aesthetics.

The beach door is another feature that sets this boat apart. At the touch of a button, the port side hull opens out and down, expanding deck space by over two feet and creating a waterfront patio for swimming, fishing, or tying up a kayak or tender. A sturdy ladder and grab handles are included, and the padded flooring dries quickly after use.

Swim Platform and Water Sports Features

The triple outboard setup lets the Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS Outboard have a full-width swim platform at the stern. This area is non-skid, drains quickly, and has a fold-out ladder for reboarding after water activities. Grab handles along both port and starboard sides make climbing out of the water simple for children and adults. A transom shower, both hot and cold, is standard to help rinse off sand or salt before stepping back into the cockpit.

For those who enjoy towing tubes, boards, or other toys, there are strong tow hooks and multiple cleats for rigging. The high storage capacity under the cockpit seats keeps lines and vests out of sight but ready for action. Paddleboards, kayaks, or fishing rods have mounting options along the hardtop or at deck level, and there’s a 12V outlet aft for inflating water toys.

Galley Upgrades and Serving Areas

Alongside the aft cockpit, the wet bar area offers more than a simple cooler or mini-fridge. The galley setup features a stainless steel sink with hot/cold water, a Kenyon electric grill that folds away when not in use, a slide-out cooler, and a refrigerator that fits drinks and meal prep. Storage cabinets underneath handle trash bins, utensils, and cleaning supplies. LED lighting makes it easy to work after dark, and there’s dedicated power for blenders, coffee makers, or slow cookers. When equipped with optional upgrades, an ice maker and extra refrigeration mean you’re ready for longer trips or larger parties.

Hardtop, Shade, and Climate Protection

The fiberglass hardtop is robust and designed to blend with the hull while maximizing protection from sun and rain. Fixed forward glass panels, side vent windows, and integrated lighting keep the area bright but shielded. Over the rear cockpit, there’s an optional electric sunshade that extends at the push of a button to cover the entire seating area. This makes it possible to use the boat comfortably even in the heat of midday or drizzle of a summer shower.

LED downlights and blue courtesy lighting add ambiance, and outdoor-grade speakers are flush-mounted into the hardtop running full-range sound with minimal distortion. Clear vinyl panels are available to enclose sections of the cockpit if extra weather protection is needed during spring or fall.

Below Decks: Cabin Comforts and Overnight Use

A key feature for many owners considering longer outings or even a night aboard is the cabin. The 42 GLS Outboard’s cabin is designed with headroom for adults to stand comfortably, unlike some dayboats where space feels cramped. The forward lounge can handle seating for three or four and quickly converts to a berth for two adults. Upholstery is durable yet soft, easy to keep clean, and includes accent pillows for home-like comfort.

The cabin includes a compact galley with microwave, under-counter refrigerator, stainless sink, and storage for dry goods and snacks. Overhead LED strip lights and reading lamps provide both mood and task lighting, with push-button controls.

The enclosed head is finished with easy-clean surfaces, a full-size electric flush toilet, stand-up shower with removable handheld sprayer, solid-surface countertop, storage vanity, and opening portholes for natural light and extra ventilation. Tempered glass mirrors, a towel bar, and shower curtain round out the setup for real functionality. An overhead hatch and side windows provide extra light and give the cabin a bright, airy feeling during the day.

Cabin air conditioning and heat (powered by the generator) mean owners and guests can relax below, no matter how hot or cold it gets outside. Multiple USB and 110V outlets let people charge devices or plug in a laptop if working remotely. The generator is a 7.5 kW diesel unit, designed for quiet operation, with all controls and monitoring panels easily accessed from the cabin or cockpit.

Storage Solutions: Making Life Simple

No success in a dayboat comes without smart storage. The 42 GLS Outboard delivers with deep, wide lockers below cockpit seats, compartments for fenders, and large access hatches aft for storing spare dock lines, tools, and extra cleaning supplies. The anchor locker at the bow has a freshwater washdown, so you can hose off the anchor and chain to keep dirt and mud off the deck. Dedicated tackle storage, rod racks, and a cooler slide-out mean anglers have what they need for quick setup after launching.

Cabin closets feature hanging rods and shelving. Under-berth bins can fit overnight bags. The sideboard in the galley has drawers for utensils and non-perishable food, while the under-sink cabinet can fit cleaning products and emergency supplies.

In the cockpit, underfloor stowage is watertight and drains overboard. Trash and recycling bins are out of sight but easy to access. Helm-side storage lockers can be used for life jackets, flare kits, and manuals. These thoughtful touches help keep trips organized so you spend less time searching for gear and more time enjoying your day.

Technology Touches: Modern Boating Made Easier

Digital switching is now standard in boats of this class, and the 42 GLS Outboard keeps up with the trend. The whole boat’s systems—including lighting, pumps, music, and entertainment—can be controlled from the Simrad touchscreen or even remotely via a phone app if set up. Owners can monitor battery status, trim tabs, tank levels, and generator operation at a glance. Navigation is handled by the Simrad screens, with built-in GPS, sonar, radar, and chart plotting for higher confidence whether you’re on open water or in unfamiliar bays.

There’s an integrated VHF marine radio with Digital Selective Calling (DSC) for emergency contact. Backup analog controls and switches are included, so you can keep going even if the digital system has an issue. The digital system also integrates with the sound system—multiple zones are set up so you can play music at different volumes in the bow, cockpit, and cabin, adjusting for everyone’s comfort.

Practical Features Owners Appreciate

Many owners find that what sets this boat apart is not just the big-ticket items but smaller, day-to-day conveniences:

• Snap-in, non-slip deck flooring is soft underfoot, dries quickly, and is easy to replace or clean
• Deep cup holders throughout—each seat, sun pad, and lounge has one nearby
• Charging ports and 110V outlets in every section of the boat
• Fender storage holders that allow quick deployment when pulling up to a dock
• Overhead storage nets in the cabin for magazines, sunglasses, and small electronics
• Draining swim platform boxes for wet gear or lines
• A dedicated holder for the removable cockpit table, so it doesn’t slide during travel

These may seem like small additions, but regular users find that they make each day out more convenient.

Full Walkthrough: How a Day Unfolds on Board

A typical day on the Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS Outboard can start at sunrise, with the outboards fired up and systems checked at the helm. Everyone loads gear using the wide platform before heading off. At cruise, the boat easily glides at 30 to 35 mph, keeping noise low so conversation is easy. You reach a favorite sandbar or anchorage, and the Mercury joystick system makes it simple to inch into position and hold your ground as everyone preps for a swim or lunch.

The beach door lowers, letting kids and adults alike plunge into the water or float nearby while one guest sets up the grill. Drinks are kept cold in built-in fridges and coolers, and the sound system runs everyone’s favorite playlist. After swimming, people can shower off at the transom and relax in the shaded cockpit as the sunshade extends to shelter the area. The afternoon brings a round of card games on the bow, snacks from the wet bar, and a quick nap below decks. Packing up is quick, thanks to organized lockers.

If you want to stay overnight, drop anchor and retreat to the cabin, where bedding, climate control, and hot showers make everything comfortable. The next morning, running home or making a new destination is just as easy—everything is built to support the day you want.

Maintenance: Designed for Simplicity

Good design means more than just luxury—it includes access and layout that help owners keep their boat running smoothly. Every engine has easy access panels for routine service. The fuel filters, oil checks, and water separators are all grouped in one space at the transom. Battery switches and main distribution panels are located just inside the cockpit, so you don’t have to crawl around to reach them. The generator has its own dedicated hatch and is readily accessible for oil changes or inspections.

Freshwater and raw water pumps, air conditioning units, and waste pumps are all labeled, with service valves and filters reachable. LED lighting in the systems area means you can work even if light is low or at night. The hull is designed to drain water away from sensitive equipment and is finished with anti-fouling treatments to keep growth to a minimum.

Innovations for Comfort and Fun

One of the most notable innovations on the 42 GLS Outboard is the beach door. Unlike simple fold-down platforms, this section of hull opens out to nearly double the usable deck space in the cockpit. The expansion provides a unique space for water access, making swimming much more accessible and giving families a safe area for kids to play without crowding the swim platform.

Another innovation is the convertible seating. Unlike older, fixed layouts, these seats and backrests can be rearranged as needed, helping you switch from sunbathing to entertaining or increase seating for a meal. Walkways are wider than industry standard, and steps are positioned for maximum safety.

Lighting is fully adjustable by zone—so you can have soft blue courtesy lights during a dinner or full white overheads when cleaning up after a day out. The digital climate control system in the cabin allows you to specify the exact temperature, so the lower salon stays pleasant even on hot or chilly nights.

Versatility Across Activities

The Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS Outboard has found popularity among a wide range of owners because of its versatility:

• Large family outings: Bring up to twelve guests with plenty of space for food, swimming, and games.
• Water sports: Tow tubes, wakeboards, or inflatables directly from the robust transom, and store all gear in large deck lockers.
• Offshore trips: The hull is fuel efficient and the navigation electronics make it simple to tackle longer journeys with confidence.
• Overnight/weekend cruising: The cabin setup and generator-powered air conditioning enable real comfort for night stays.
• Entertaining: Grill meals, serve drinks, and offer shade or sun for your guests all in the same trip.

This adaptability means the 42 GLS Outboard supports the spontaneous plans, planned vacations, and even quick sunsets after work.

Experiences and User Feedback

Those who have spent time on the 42 GLS Outboard consistently highlight the comfort and ease of use. First-time buyers find the joystick docking system especially helpful, making even busy marinas less stressful. Owners mention the stability at anchor, helpful for groups with small children or elderly guests. Many note that a true highlight is how much outdoor living space feels usable—areas like the bow, aft lounge, and bar work together rather than feeling isolated.

The cabin is often praised for staying quiet at night and keeping temperatures comfortable in both heat and cold. Storage and access for daily gear are points of positive feedback, as owners emphasize that they didn’t have to leave things behind or crowd the deck. The convertible cockpit seating allows easy changes between meals, sunbathing, and cruising, and the rear entertainment area is often described as the “best seat in the house.”

Comparing the 42 GLS Outboard to Other Boats

When looking at other boats in the same size and class, a few things clearly stand out for the 42 GLS Outboard. Many models provide either a large exterior space or a cabin, but not both—this boat manages to keep both spacious without sacrificing one for the other. Outboard power means easier maintenance and the ability to get into shallow areas, something less possible with inboard-driven competitors. The side beach door is relatively unique, offering a real expansion of social and water access beyond traditional platforms.

Electronics and technology in similar boats sometimes feel add-on or secondary, but the digital controls and integrated screens here are standard, with analog backups included. Fit and finish on the interior cabinetry and upholstery are also consistently rated higher than many rival brands.

Practical Considerations: Fuel, Waste, Supplies

The 400-gallon fuel tank provides a wide range for both day-tripping and overnights. Triple engines mean you are not left alone if one has issues—you can still get home with two running. All tanks (fuel, water, waste) are monitored electronically, with alarms to alert you when nearly full or empty. Filling water tanks is simple from the dockside, and pump-out for waste is set up for easy marina service.

Waste and recycling have their own storage bins below decks, which prevents clutter and keeps smells out of living spaces. Many owners make use of the multiple fridge and freezer options to store not just drinks and food for the day but full meals for a weekend trip.

Supplies for cleaning, first aid, and safety gear stow just below deck or beside the helm, making access quick in emergencies but keeping them out of sight during social hours.

Adjusting to Weather: Sun, Rain, Heat, Cold

Hardtop coverage, side wind screens, removable canvas panels, and electric sun shades allow you to adapt the main cockpit area to changing conditions quickly. If a summer rainstorm passes through, the panels zip into place in minutes, and water drains quickly from the deck. The air conditioning and heating below keep sleeping quarters comfortable for overnight stays year-round. In cooler climates, seat heaters and carpet in the cabin can be installed as optional upgrades to make late-season outings more pleasant.

Environmentally Minded Features

Modern outboards are significantly quieter and cleaner than older models, minimizing their impact on both the soundscape and water quality. Mercury’s digital controls keep fuel use down, and the hull is optimized for efficient running at a range of speeds. LED lighting throughout the boat reduces power consumption, and onboard charging from solar or generator helps keep engine idling to a minimum. Waste management is designed for easy, legal pump-outs at marinas, reducing impact on favorite coves or anchorages.

Safety and Security

Safety rails run from cockpit to bow, and decks remain non-skid even when wet. All access hatches are safely rounded and fitted with friction hinges to avoid sudden closure. There are dedicated grab bars in all main walkways, and the engine space includes an automatic fire suppression system plus a manual pull. Navigation and anchor lights conform to current standards, and electrical panels are labeled both by industry convention and by simple terms for first-time users.

The Mercury Joystick and bow thruster make it all but impossible to lose control during low-speed maneuvering, which is especially important when docking in crowded areas or among less experienced boaters. The boat also includes a theft-prevention battery lockout and hidden lockboxes for personal valuables when away from the boat.

Customization and Optional Equipment

Buyers have a range of finish options for upholstery, deck flooring, woodwork, and galley fixtures. Optional hardtop-mounted solar panels provide additional power and reduce generator run time at anchor. Extra speakers and subwoofers can be added to support movie nights or bigger gatherings, and underwater LED lights can be fitted for night swimming or added atmosphere.

Families can install extra childproofing for rails and hatches, and a full set of deck covers and upgraded anchor package can be selected for those cruising in heavier waters. Fishing owners may add rod holders, livewell, and extra washdowns, while water sports fans can select stronger tow hooks and dedicated board storage.

What to Look for in Pre-Owned Models

When shopping for a used 42 GLS Outboard, it is recommended to check for service records on the engines and generator including oil changes, filter replacements, and computer software updates for controls. Inspect the condition of upholstery and deck flooring for wear or sun fading, as these are high-traffic areas. Ensure electronics are fully functional, and that the hardtop, sunshade, and beach door operate smoothly. Review any repairs made to the swim platform, hull, or beach door for quality and to confirm they were performed by authorized service techs.

Why a Brokerage Partner Makes a Difference

With a boat offering as much flexibility as the 42 GLS Outboard, small variations in features, options, and use can have a big impact on day-to-day enjoyment. A knowledgeable broker not only knows the technical data, but can help match your boating habits and expectations with the right setup and equipment. Whether you’re a first time buyer or an experienced owner looking to upgrade, having support from people who understand the nuances of models like the 42 GLS Outboard takes the stress out of the process and can help you move from research to ownership smoothly.

Who Should Consider the Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS Outboard?

• People who entertain regularly and need both indoor and outdoor spaces to keep everyone comfortable.
• Families who appreciate safety, easy water access, and overnight options.
• Buyers seeking modern technology, digital controls, and smart use of every inch of deck and cabin space.
• Those who want a boat that is not only easy to drive but easy to maintain and store.
• Water lovers who split time between fast runs, sandbar hangouts, watersports, fishing, and quiet afternoons at anchor.
• People who want to stay out for the day or longer, without bringing a full extra crew.
• Enthusiasts who prioritize good value both in initial fit and long-term quality of life improvements.

Final Thoughts: Making Your Choice

The Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS Outboard stands out not just for headline features like triple outboards and the beach door, but for how well it puts together comfort, usability, and flexibility. Each trip on the water is simpler, safer, and more enjoyable thanks to the boat’s focus on details that owners truly use every day.

If you find yourself wanting to learn more, see layouts in person, or discuss the finer points of features and upgrades, talking to a team member at Fly Yachts can fast-track your search and help you feel confident in your next steps. Reach out to Fly Yachts today to discover if the 42 GLS Outboard matches your lifestyle and boating ambitions.

Fly Yachts offers a comprehensive set of services from their homepage, where you can browse yachts for sale and aircraft for sale, learn more about their team and background on the about us page, and explore custom design options at build a yacht. They provide access to global charter destinations, a range of yachts charter options, and support for sellers through sell your yacht. Keep up with the industry using gulfstream news and gain insights from compass articles, and if you have any questions or need assistance, you can reach out via their contact page.