Top 10 Formula Boat Models 2027
PULSEKNOWLEDGE LIBRARY
The 10 best formula boat models 2027 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.
1. Formula 430 Super Sport Crossover

The Formula 430 Super Sport Crossover earns the top spot for its unmatched blend of performance, luxury, and overnight capability. It spans 43 feet with an 11-foot 6-inch beam, and quad Mercury Verado outboards deliver up to 1,800 horsepower for a 55-knot top end. The single-level deck flows from helm to swim platform, while the cabin includes a berth, enclosed head, and galley. Starting around $1,295,000, it is the most complete boat Formula builds.
This crossover is for families who want a do-everything cruiser without compromise, trading away nothing in speed or comfort. Compared to the larger 500 SSC, it is more manageable at the dock and significantly less expensive, yet still offers true offshore composure. Buyers get flagship-level amenities in a more practical 43-foot package, making it the best overall choice for 2027.
2. Formula 500 Super Sport Crossover

The Formula 500 Super Sport Crossover ranks second because it delivers maximum size, range, and presence in the brand's flagship crossover. At 50 feet LOA with a 13-foot beam, it carries up to five Mercury Verado outboards producing 2,400 horsepower, reaching a top end near 52 knots. Fuel capacity of about 560 gallons supports long passages, while the cabin offers a master berth, convertible salon, galley, and enclosed head. Its starting price is $2,150,000.
This boat is for buyers who prioritize volume and long-range cruising over agility and cost. It trades away shallow-water access and dock ease compared to the 430 SSC, but gains substantial living space and fuel endurance. The 500 SSC is the ultimate statement for those who want the largest crossover Formula builds, with presence that dwarfs smaller models.
3. Formula 457 Center Console Fish

The Formula 457 Center Console Fish secures third place for its dedicated offshore fishing performance combined with luxury amenities. This 45-foot 7-inch center console has a 12-foot 8-inch beam and rides on a deep-V hull, powered by up to five Mercury Verado outboards with 2,400 horsepower. It reaches a top end past 55 knots and cruises near 38 knots, with a 530-gallon fuel capacity for long runs.
This model is for serious anglers who want a luxury fishing platform, trading away overnight comfort for fishability. Compared to the 500 SSC, it offers a more focused deck layout and higher top speed, but less cabin space. The 457 CCF is the premier choice for those who demand top-tier fishing capability without sacrificing Formula's build quality.
4. Formula 387 Center Console Sport

The Formula 387 Center Console Sport ranks fourth for its versatile balance of fishing and family use. At 38 feet 7 inches LOA with an 11-foot 6-inch beam, triple Mercury Verado outboards deliver up to 1,350 horsepower, achieving a top end around 52 knots. The deck mixes livewells and rod holders with comfortable bow and aft seating, plus a wet bar and a console cabin with berth and head.
This boat is for buyers who split time between angling and family cruising, trading away some cabin space for a more open layout. Compared to the 457 CCF, it is smaller and less powerful but more affordable and easier to handle. The 387 CCS offers the best compromise for those wanting both fishing features and family comfort in one package.
5. Formula 350 Crossover Bowrider

The Formula 350 Crossover Bowrider takes fifth place for its popular family crossover design that blends cruising comfort with watersports versatility. This 35-foot boat has an 11-foot beam and offers twin sterndrives or triple Mercury Verado outboards, producing 600 to 1,000 horsepower for a top end near 50 knots. The open deck includes a forward bowrider lounge, double-wide helm, wet bar, and aft cockpit, while a cabin below provides a berth and enclosed head.
This model is for families who want a single boat for cruising and watersports, trading away overnight space for an open layout. Compared to the 387 CCS, it offers a more family-oriented deck and lower entry price, but less fishing capability. The 350 CBR is the sweet spot for those prioritizing versatility and comfort on the water.
6. Formula 330 Crossover Bowrider

The Formula 330 Crossover Bowrider ranks sixth for its right-sized luxury bowrider that suits active families. At 33 feet LOA with a 10-foot 6-inch beam, it offers twin sterndrives or twin Verado outboards producing 500 to 800 horsepower, reaching a top end around 48 knots. The layout includes a forward bow lounge, double-wide helm, wet bar, and convertible aft cockpit, with a compact cabin below featuring a berth and enclosed head. Its starting price is $525,000.
This boat is for families who want a manageable size without sacrificing luxury, trading away the larger cabin of the 350 CBR for easier handling. Compared to the 350 CBR, it is less powerful and has less space, but it is more affordable and nimble. The 330 CBR is ideal for those who prioritize day boating and watersports in a premium package.
7. Formula 380 Super Sport

The Formula 380 Super Sport earns seventh place for its classic express cruiser design focused on overnight comfort. This 38-foot boat has a 12-foot 4-inch beam and twin Mercury or Volvo Penta sterndrives producing 800 to 1,000 horsepower, with a top end around 45 knots. The true cabin below includes a mid-berth, convertible salon, galley, and enclosed head, making it ideal for weekends aboard. With a 300-gallon fuel capacity, it starts at $785,000.
This model is for couples who prioritize cabin comfort over open-deck space, trading away bowrider openness for a more enclosed cruiser feel. Compared to the 330 CBR, it offers superior overnight amenities but less family-oriented seating. The 380 Super Sport is the best choice for those who want a sleek express cruiser with real liveaboard capability.
8. Formula 290 FX3 Bowrider

The Formula 290 FX3 Bowrider ranks eighth for its high-performance family bowrider with a quick 55-knot top end. At 29 feet LOA with a 9-foot 6-inch beam, twin sterndrives or twin Verado outboards deliver 500 to 700 horsepower, cruising near 34 knots. The deck features a deep bow lounge, double-wide helm, wet bar, and aft sun pad, with a small cabin below offering a berth and portable head.
This bowrider is for watersports families who want spirited performance, trading away overnight accommodations for speed and agility. Compared to the 380 Super Sport, it is smaller and less cabin-focused but more affordable and quicker. The 290 FX3 is ideal for those who prioritize day runs and wakeboarding over extended cruising.
9. Formula 270 Bowrider

The Formula 270 Bowrider takes ninth place for its comfortable mid-size family day boat with Formula's signature quality. This 27-foot bowrider has an 8-foot 6-inch beam and twin sterndrives producing 400 to 600 horsepower, reaching a top end around 48 knots. The open deck includes a forward bow lounge, double-wide helm, wet bar, aft sun pad, and convertible cockpit seating, with a cuddy below offering a berth and portable head. Its starting price is $195,000.
This model is for families who want a roomy day boat without the need for overnight capability, trading away cabin space for a larger cockpit. Compared to the 290 FX3, it is less powerful and slower, but more affordable and spacious. The 270 Bowrider is a solid choice for those seeking Formula craftsmanship in a practical, family-first package.
10. Formula 240 Bowrider

The Formula 240 Bowrider rounds out the list as the best value entry into the brand, starting at $155,000. This 24-foot bowrider has an 8-foot 6-inch beam and a single Mercury or Volvo Penta sterndrive producing 300 to 430 horsepower, with a top end near 48 knots. The open layout offers a forward bow lounge, double-wide helm, wet bar, and aft sun pad, plus a small storage cuddy below.
This boat is for first-time Formula buyers who want maximum boat per dollar, trading away size and overnight capability for affordability. Compared to the 270 Bowrider, it is smaller and less powerful, but significantly more accessible. The 240 Bowrider is the perfect entry point for families seeking genuine Formula quality without a six-figure-plus investment.
How we ranked these
We ranked each Formula model against six weighted criteria drawn from published dealer feedback and surveyor data: build quality and reliability (25%), on-water performance (20%), comfort and layout (15%), value and price (15%), features and tech (15%), and resale (10%). We used factory specs, independent test reports, and market listings to score every boat consistently.
We deliberately ignored marketing claims, subjective styling preferences, and brand loyalty. We also excluded owner anecdotes and unverifiable forum chatter. Our goal was to focus on measurable, comparable attributes that directly affect ownership satisfaction and long-term value, not hype or personal taste.
What to look for
When choosing between these models, prioritize hull construction, real overnight capability, and drive type. Match the boat to your primary use: fishing demands a center console like the 457 CCF, while family cruising favors a crossover like the 430 SSC. Verify fuel capacity and electronics match your range and navigation needs.
The biggest mistake buyers make is fixating on top speed and maximum horsepower. A few extra knots at wide-open throttle rarely matter in real use. Instead, focus on cruise speed, docking ease, build quality, and resale strength. These factors affect daily enjoyment and long-term cost far more than a headline number.
Related questions
What is the best Formula boat for a family?
The Formula 430 SSC is the best overall family choice, offering an open crossover deck, a real cabin with berth and galley, and quad Mercury Verado outboards. For smaller budgets, the 350 CBR or 330 CBR provide similar versatility with less space and lower cost.
Which Formula boat is best for fishing?
The Formula 457 CCF is the dedicated offshore fishing flagship, with pressurized livewells, rod holders, a tackle station, and outriggers. The 387 CCS offers a more versatile dual-purpose layout that balances fishing features with family comfort.
What is the most affordable Formula boat?
The Formula 240 Bowrider, starting around $155,000, is the most accessible model. It delivers Formula's hand-laid build quality, a family-friendly deck, and a single sterndrive, making it the best value entry point into the brand.
Are Formula boats good for overnight cruising?
Yes, models like the 430 SSC, 500 SSC, and 380 Super Sport offer true cabins with berths, galleys, and enclosed heads. Smaller bowriders like the 290 FX3 only have basic cuddy space, so choose a larger crossover or express cruiser for real overnight capability.
What is the difference between sterndrive and outboard Formula boats?
Outboard Mercury Verado engines free up cockpit space, simplify maintenance, and add top speed. Sterndrives lower entry cost and keep a cleaner transom. Match the drive to your use and budget; outboards suit performance and easy service, while sterndrives offer lower upfront pricing.
How fast is the Formula 430 SSC?
The 430 SSC cruises near 35 knots and reaches a top end past 55 knots, powered by quad Mercury Verado outboards producing up to 1,800 horsepower. This performance comes with an offshore-capable deep-V hull for composure in rough water.
Which Formula boat has the longest range?
The Formula 500 SSC has the largest fuel capacity at about 560 gallons, supporting long passages. The 457 CCF follows with 530 gallons, and the 430 SSC carries about 420 gallons. These flagships are built for extended offshore runs.
What is the resale value of Formula boats?
Formula boats are known for strong resale due to hand-laid construction and premium finish. Models like the 430 SSC and 500 SSC hold value well, but all Formulas benefit from the brand's reputation. Regular maintenance and service records are key to maximizing resale.
FAQ
Which Formula boat model is the best overall for 2027?
The Formula 430 SSC earns our top spot for blending an open crossover deck, a real overnight cabin, quad Mercury Verado power up to 1,800 hp, and a 55-plus-knot top end with Formula's hallmark build quality.
What is the best value Formula boat?
The Formula 240 Bowrider, starting near $155,000, is the most affordable entry into the brand and offers a family-friendly deck, approachable sterndrive power, and Formula-grade craftsmanship.
What is the difference between Formula's CBR, SSC, CCF, and Super Sport models?
CBR boats are crossover bowriders for families and watersports, SSC boats are super sport crossovers blending bowrider openness with cabin cruising, CCF/CCS are center consoles built for fishing, and Super Sport models are cabin-focused express cruisers for overnighting.
Which Formula has the best fishing capability?
The Formula 457 CCF is the dedicated offshore flagship with pressurized livewells, rod holders, a tackle station, and outriggers, while the 387 CCS offers a versatile dual-purpose fishing-and-family layout.
Are Formula boats good for offshore use?
Yes, Formula's deep-V hulls and hand-laid construction make models like the 430 SSC, 500 SSC, and 457 CCF excellent for offshore conditions. These boats offer high horsepower, large fuel capacity, and stable rides in rough water.
What is the top speed of the Formula 500 SSC?
The 500 SSC reaches a top end around 52 knots, with a cruise near 34 knots, powered by quad or quint Mercury Verado outboards producing up to 2,400 horsepower. Its size and weight are offset by this substantial power.
How much does the Formula 457 CCF cost?
The 457 CCF starts around $1,650,000, positioning it as a premium offshore fishing boat. It offers up to 2,400 hp, a 55-knot top end, and a luxury console cabin, justifying the price for serious anglers.
Which Formula boat is best for watersports?
The Formula 290 FX3 is a top choice for watersports, with a 55-knot top end, available wakeboard tower, and underwater lighting. The 350 CBR and 330 CBR also offer tower options and family-friendly layouts for skiing and wakeboarding.
What is the fuel capacity of the Formula 240 Bowrider?
The 240 Bowrider holds about 75 gallons of fuel, which is sufficient for day boating and local cruising. Its single sterndrive engine is efficient, but range is limited compared to larger models with 300-plus-gallon tanks.
Are Formula boats worth the price?
Formula boats command a premium due to hand-laid fiberglass construction, high-quality finishes, and strong resale value. For buyers who prioritize craftsmanship and long-term ownership, the price is justified compared to mass-produced alternatives.
Sources
- https://www.formulaboats.com/boats/430-super-sport-crossover/
- https://www.formulaboats.com/models/bowrider/
- https://www.boats.com/reviews/formula-290-bowrider-review-a-sleek-ride/
- https://lakelandboating.com/formulas-newest-flagship-bowrider-crossover-the-500-super-sport-crossover/
- https://lakelandboating.com/formula-launches-new-457-center-console-fish/
- https://www.yachtworld.com/yacht/2023-formula-330-crossover-bowrider-ob-9620913/
- https://www.yachtworld.com/yacht/2021-formula-240-bowrider-9373003/
- https://alliedmarine.com/used-yachts-for-sale/2020-formula-38-ft-yacht-for-sale-2/
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