2870 Express; 280 CXi

The Cruisers 2870 Express (called the 280 CXi in 2005–07) is a mid-cabin cruiser whose sporty lines and versatile layout made her a popular model during her production years. A fairly heavy boat at 10,000 pounds, she’s built on a stable modified-V hull with a wide beam and moderate transom deadrise. Like most mid-cabin boats her size, the floorplan of the 280 is very open and airy with curtains (rather than bulkheads) separating the fore and aft sleeping areas from the main salon. The dinette converts into a double berth suitable for kids, and while the galley is small it’s nonetheless suitable for basic food-prep activities. The topside layout incorporates a double-wide helm seat, fore- and aft-facing cockpit settees, and a walk-through windshield with molded-in steps for easy foredeck access. Space at the helm for electronic add-ons is limited. Additional features include a removable cockpit table, sport arch, transom door and swim platform. Among several gas and diesel engine choices, a single 375hp MerCruiser will cruise the 2870 Express at 22–23 knots, and twin 225hp Volvo I/Os cruise in the mid 20s (35+ top).