2955 Avanti Sunbridge

Introduced in 1988, the 2955 Avanti Sunbridge is yet another example of why Bayliner so dominated the market for entry-level boats in the 1980s and 1990s. Fully equipped (there were no options except air conditioning), a new 2955 Avanti Sunbridge delivered for about $50,000 in 1989/90—considerably less than the price of similarly equipped competitive boats. Not surprisingly, a lot of Bayliner 2955s were sold during her production run and used models are usually easy to find. With a wide 10'6" beam, the accommodations are surprisingly spacious for a 29-footer. The mid-cabin floorplan will sleep four adults and two kids and includes a standup head with shower as well as a small galley area. Like most “open-plan” layouts, there’s no privacy door for either sleeping area, just draw curtains. The swim platform is a bolt-on affair (rather than an integral part of the hull), and it must be conceded that the 2955’s level of fit and finish is something less than meticulous. A single 340hp I/O was standard (16 knots cruise and 28 top), and twin 260hp MerCruisers were optional (21–22 knots cruise/33 top). Note that the engine compartment is a tight fit with twin engines.