3297 Mariner; 330 Mariner

The Carver 3297 Mariner (called the 330 Mariner from 1993–96) was introduced in 1985 as a downsized version of Carver’s mega-popular 3697 Mariner. While it’s true that the 3297 Mariner has drawn a lot of abuse over the years for her ungainly appearance, over 650 were sold during a decade-long production run which says a lot about Carver’s ability to please the public. The great appeal of the Mariner is her enormous full-beam, single-level interior. Entering from the cockpit through double sliding glass doors, the spacious teak-trimmed salon includes a convertible U-shaped dinette, convertible sofa, wet bar, and a convenient (and unique) access ladder to the flybridge. A large galley with dual sinks, three burner stove, microwave and full-size refrigerator/freezer is forward to port, opposite an equally large head with separate stall shower. The bow stateroom has an offset double berth, hanging locker, and privacy door. Topside, the party-time bridge deck is reached via twin ladders in the cockpit. A centerline transom door, bow pulpit, swim platform, and foredeck sun pad are standard. Crusader 270hp gas engines (with V-drives) cruise the 3297 Mariner at 14–16 knots (low to mid 20s top).