The Cutwater 248 is one of those boats that manages to blur the line between compact convenience and full-fledged cruising capability. Designed by Fluid Motion—the company behind Cutwater and Ranger Tugs—the 248 is a pocket cruiser that brings together versatility, fuel efficiency, and surprising comfort in a trailerable package. For boaters who want a vessel that is equally at home in protected bays as it is on near-offshore adventures, the 248 offers a compelling blend of practicality and modern design.

Unlike larger yachts that require slip commitments and big-boat maintenance, the 248 allows you to tow it, launch it, and go—making it accessible to a wide range of owners. But don’t let its manageable size fool you. This boat packs in features normally reserved for larger cruisers, including overnight accommodations, a functional galley, and a smartly designed helm. It’s marketed as a boat that does a little bit of everything, and in this review, we’ll look closely at whether it lives up to that reputation.

What’s the Main Purpose of the Cutwater 248?

The Cutwater 248 is designed as a family-friendly cruiser that balances ease of handling with comfort and efficiency. It’s built for people who love the idea of weekend getaways on the water, without committing to a large yacht. At 24 feet, it’s easy to tow and launch, yet it delivers the amenities you need for overnight trips.

This boat is often described as a “pocket cruiser,” and that title fits perfectly. It’s not a stripped-down runabout, nor is it a large offshore machine. Instead, it fills the sweet spot for boaters who want to cruise, fish casually, entertain, and even travel short distances with minimal fuss.

Who Will Appreciate This Boat the Most?

The 248 is tailored to owners who want maximum versatility in a manageable size. New boaters often gravitate toward it because it’s easier to learn on than a larger yacht, yet it still feels like a “real cruiser.” Families, couples, and adventurous day-trippers find it appealing because it doesn’t require a big crew or marina footprint.

It also attracts experienced owners who want a second boat that can be trailered to new destinations. For example, someone who owns a 50-foot yacht might keep a Cutwater 248 for exploring shallow bays or towing across states for freshwater adventures. Its ease of use and clever layout make it a solid option for a wide audience.

How Does the Cutwater 248 Compare to Other Offshore Boats?

While the 248 is capable of handling near-offshore conditions, it is not in the same class as a 40-foot center console built to blast offshore at 70 mph. Instead, it shines in the balance it offers. Compared to a typical bowrider, it’s far more versatile with overnight amenities and fishing-friendly design. Against similar-sized cruisers like the Jeanneau Merry Fisher 795 or Beneteau Antares 8, the Cutwater holds its ground with efficient hull design and a more trailer-friendly profile.

Owners often compare it to Ranger Tugs, which share design DNA, but note that the Cutwater has a slightly more modern, sportier feel. It offers a compromise between performance and comfort that appeals to boaters who want to cover both bases.

Dimensions and Technical Highlights

The specifications of the Cutwater 248 are designed to maximize comfort while keeping the boat trailerable and easy to handle.

• Type: Pocket Cruiser / Compact Cruiser
• Length Overall (LOA): 24 feet 7 inches
• Beam: 8 feet 6 inches
• Draft: 2 feet 6 inches (engine down)
• Fuel Capacity: 116 gallons
• Engines: Single outboard (commonly Yamaha 250 HP or 300 HP)
• Horsepower: Up to 300 HP
• Top Speed: 40–45 mph depending on load and setup
• Cruise Speed: Around 25–30 mph
• Hull Design: Double-stepped deep-vee hull with keel extension for stability
• Accommodations: Sleeps up to 4, convertible dinette, enclosed head, galley

For its size, the Cutwater 248 is remarkably well equipped. You get a true galley with stove, sink, and fridge, along with a compact but functional head. The cabin layout makes smart use of space, providing sleeping arrangements for a couple or small family.

On-Water Performance and Ride Quality

On the water, the Cutwater 248 offers a balanced ride that emphasizes efficiency and stability. With its single Yamaha outboard, acceleration is brisk, though not blistering, and the boat settles into a comfortable cruise speed quickly. The stepped hull design reduces drag and improves fuel economy, allowing for longer trips on a modest fuel supply.

It’s not a hardcore offshore boat, but in moderate chop it performs admirably. The keel extension helps tracking at lower speeds and adds to the feeling of security when navigating in crosswinds. Compared to a sportfish or high-performance center console, the ride is more measured, but for family cruising it strikes the right balance between comfort and control.

Safety Considerations for Families and Cruisers

Safety is a strong point of the 248’s design. The cockpit and walkways feature nonskid surfaces, stainless steel grab rails are positioned thoughtfully, and high sides help keep younger passengers secure. Navigation electronics can be upgraded to include radar, GPS, and fishfinder, ensuring that even newer boaters can handle navigation confidently.

Another plus is the boat’s predictable handling. It responds smoothly to helm input, making docking less intimidating for beginners. The visibility from the helm is excellent, which reduces blind spots and increases overall safety during close-quarters maneuvering.

Limitations and Considerations

As with any boat, the Cutwater 248 has trade-offs. While it has overnight capability, space is limited compared to larger cruisers. Four people can technically sleep aboard, but for longer stays, it’s best suited to two adults or a couple with young children.

The single outboard setup is efficient, but it won’t match the redundancy or raw power of twin-engine boats. Offshore adventurers who want redundancy may prefer a larger model, but for the intended use of coastal and inland cruising, the 248 holds up well.

Highlights and Lifestyle Benefits

What makes the Cutwater 248 shine is the lifestyle it enables. Imagine trailering your boat to a new coastal town, launching it with ease, and enjoying a weekend of exploring without worrying about hotel bookings. The galley lets you prepare meals onboard, the convertible dinette doubles as a cozy berth, and the cockpit can host an evening happy hour with friends.

Anglers will also appreciate the integrated rod holders, livewell, and fish storage. While it’s not a tournament fishing boat, it’s more than capable of supporting casual fishing trips without sacrificing cruising comfort.

What Owners and Reviewers Say

Owners often rave about the value for money the 248 delivers. Reviews frequently highlight its ability to function as a true “all-in-one” boat—capable of cruising, fishing, overnighting, and towing. The compact size is also a big hit among owners who want freedom to travel with their boat rather than being tied to one marina.

Some reviewers do note that it’s not designed for high-speed thrills or extended offshore runs, but most agree that within its intended use, it punches above its weight.

Costs and Long-Term Ownership

From a financial perspective, the 248 is approachable compared to larger cruisers. Storage costs are lower because it can be trailered, eliminating the need for permanent slip rental. Annual maintenance on a single outboard is less expensive than managing twins or triples, and insurance is generally affordable.

Fuel efficiency is another plus. Owners report cruising fuel economy in the range of 2–3 mpg, meaning you can cover decent distances without constant fuel stops. For buyers looking to balance cost of ownership with quality of experience, the 248 offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts

The Cutwater 248 is not a boat that tries to be everything to everyone—it focuses on being a practical, comfortable, and efficient pocket cruiser. For families, couples, and adventurous boaters, it’s a versatile option that makes weekend getaways and coastal cruising simple and enjoyable.

While it won’t replace a big offshore sportfish or a luxury yacht, it doesn’t need to. Its value lies in accessibility, efficiency, and clever design. For many, it’s the perfect gateway to the cruising lifestyle without overcommitting in size or budget.

FAQ

Can the Cutwater 248 be trailered easily?
Yes, with its 8’6” beam, the 248 is designed to be trailerable in most states without special permits.

Does the boat really sleep four?
It can, but comfort is best for two adults or a family with small children. The convertible dinette and berth maximize space, but it remains a compact cruiser.

What’s the fuel range of the Cutwater 248?
With a 116-gallon tank and efficient outboard, you can expect a range of roughly 200–250 miles depending on conditions and load.

Is it good for fishing?
Yes, it features rod holders, a livewell, and fish storage, though it’s designed more for casual fishing than competitive offshore tournaments.

What makes it different from similar models?
The trailerability, efficient hull design, and blend of cruising amenities set it apart. It offers more flexibility than many competitors in its size class.

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.