250-260 Express

Known as the 250 Mid Cabin Express until 1996, the Carver 260 Express is a trailerable entry-level cruiser whose competitive price and efficient layout will appeal to those seeking a comfortable and well-designed family weekender. Like all Carvers, she’s built on a solid fiberglass, modified-V hull with modest deadrise and, while the elevated foredeck doesn’t do much for her profile, the cabin headroom is a full 6 feet—not bad for a 26-footer. Below decks, the centerline head compartment of the 250/260 is a clear departure from the midcabin floorplans of other boats her size. The result is a larger head than might otherwise be possible, however the narrow passageway to the aft cabin is a tight fit for an adult. Overall, the cabin seems more spacious than many other trailerable cruisers. At the helm, a doublewide seat will accommodate two or even three people, and the cockpit—a step down from the bridgedeck—comes with an L-shaped lounge, a removable dining table, and transom door. While the boat does indeed have walkaround decks, they’re narrow and bow access is difficult at best. A good performer with a single 5.7-liter sterndrive engine, the 250/260 will cruise at 20–22 knots (low to mid 30s top)