Specifications
Name:
297 Elegante; 2970 Esprit
Length:
29
Hull Type:
Deep-V
Gross Weight:
--
Fuel Capacity:
200 gals.
Model Years:
1986—1991
Draft:
2'9"
Beam:
10'8"
Water Capacity:
45 gals.
Waste Capacity:
20 gals.
Length w/ Pulpit:
--
The Cruisers 297 Elegante (called the 2970 Esprit in 1988–91) offered Cruisers enthusiasts an appealing blend of versatile accommodations and sporty styling in a sturdy, modestly priced package. While she has the very same exterior profile as the Cruisers 296 Avanti Vee (1984–87), the Elegante’s midcabin floorplan made her a much more popular boat than the Avanti Vee (which did not employ a midcabin interior). Built on a solid fiberglass hull with moderate beam and prop pockets, the hull is filled with foam flotation—a safety feature seldom found in boats this size. Below, the contemporary decor features teak paneling and good-quality hardware and appliances. Like a lot of small cruisers, both the fore and aft berths have draw curtains rather than solid doors for nighttime privacy. Note that headroom in the mid stateroom is a bit more generous than in other mid-cabin boats her size. Topside, visibility from the elevated helm is excellent, and the side decks—while slender—are wide enough to reach the bow in safety. A radar arch, bow pulpit, and swim platform were standard. Twin 260/270hp gas engines cruise at 20 knots with a top speed of 29–30 knots.
