Best Crownline Boat Models (Ranked) in 2027

Crownline has built its reputation on sharp styling, a deep-V hull, and the kind of fit-and-finish that punches above its price bracket. This ranking is for the buyer shopping the used bowrider, deck boat, and cruiser market who wants a family-friendly runabout that holds its value and rides dry in chop. We judged the field on build quality, ride and handling, engine reliability, resale strength, and real-world value on the brokerage market. Crownline's lineup spans roughly 18 to 29 feet, so the picks below cover everything from a trailerable weekend bowrider to a cabin-equipped cruiser with overnight gear. Prices reflect typical used asking figures, since Crownline sells mostly through the secondary market today.

1. How We Ranked

• Build quality — Crownline's hand-laid hulls, stainless hardware, and gelcoat finish separate strong years from weak ones, so this carried the most weight.
• Ride and handling — The deep-V deadrise and hull design determine how dry and stable the boat feels in chop, a core Crownline selling point.
• Engine reliability — Mercruiser and Volvo Penta sterndrive options vary in service cost and longevity, which shapes ownership headaches.
• Resale strength — Crownline holds value better than many mass-market brands, and certain models retain more than others.
• Real-world value — Asking price versus what you actually get in space, power, and condition on the used market.

1. 2017-2022 Crownline E 235 / Eclipse E235 🏆 BEST OVERALL

2017-2022 Crownline E 235 / Eclipse E235

The E 235 (also badged Eclipse E235) is the model that best captures what makes Crownline worth buying. At roughly 23 feet 5 inches with a beam near 8 feet 6 inches, it rides on Crownline's FAS3Tech stepped-hull design that delivers a notably dry, planted feel in open water. The cockpit seating converts cleverly, the bow is wide and deep, and the swim platform is large enough for real watersports duty.

Power is typically a Mercruiser 6.2L or Volvo Penta V8 sterndrive in the 300-350 horsepower range, good for low-40s mph top speeds and confident holeshot with a full crew. Capacity runs around 10-12 people. Used examples ask $55,000-$75,000 depending on hours and trailer. The big draws are space, ride, and resale; the watch-out is sterndrive bellows and gimbal maintenance on neglected boats.

• Price: ~$55,000-$75,000
• Pros: Dry deep-V ride, roomy convertible cockpit, strong resale
• Cons: Sterndrive upkeep, premium asking prices

Verdict: The most complete Crownline for a family that wants room and ride.

2. 2008-2015 Crownline 21 SS / 215 SS 💎 BEST VALUE

2008-2015 Crownline 21 SS / 215 SS

The 21 SS (later 215 SS) is the value sweet spot in the lineup. It measures about 21 feet with an 8-foot beam, light enough to tow behind a half-ton truck yet substantial enough to handle open water far better than its price suggests. The bow seating is genuinely usable for adults, and the integrated swim platform makes it an easy tow-sports boat.

Most carry a Mercruiser 5.0L MPI or 4.5L sterndrive making 220-260 horsepower, returning mid-to-upper 40s mph and reasonable fuel burn. Capacity is around 8 people. Clean used boats ask $22,000-$32,000, and because Crownline gelcoat ages well, many look far newer than their year. Check the riser and manifold age on saltwater boats, since those are the typical big-ticket repair.

• Price: ~$22,000-$32,000
• Pros: Easy to tow, dry ride for the size, low entry price
• Cons: Smaller cockpit, base power can feel modest fully loaded

Verdict: The smartest dollar-for-dollar Crownline on the used market.

3. 2016-2021 Crownline 264 CR Cruiser

2016-2021 Crownline 264 CR Cruiser

The 264 CR is Crownline's overnight-capable cruiser, ideal for couples who want a cabin without stepping up to a full express boat. At roughly 27 feet overall with a 8-foot-6 beam, it offers a real enclosed head, a small galley, and a convertible berth, all wrapped in Crownline's signature styling. The cockpit still works for daytime cruising and entertaining.

Power is usually a Mercruiser 8.2L or Volvo Penta big-block sterndrive in the 380-430 horsepower range, pushing the heavier hull into the mid-40s. Expect $60,000-$95,000 used. It is the most boat-per-dollar if you actually want to sleep aboard, though canvas and upholstery repairs add up on older units.

• Price: ~$60,000-$95,000
• Pros: Cabin, head, and galley; strong cruising range
• Cons: Heavier and thirstier; canvas upkeep

Verdict: The pick when overnighting matters more than top speed.

4. 2013-2018 Crownline 25 SS / 255 SS

2013-2018 Crownline 25 SS / 255 SS

The 255 SS is a big bowrider that bridges the gap between runabout and small cruiser. At about 25 feet with a beam near 8 feet 6 inches, it carries a crowd in comfort with a wide bow, expansive cockpit lounges, and a generous swim platform. The freeboard is high, so it feels secure with kids aboard.

A Mercruiser 6.2L sterndrive making roughly 350 horsepower is common, with Bravo Three dual-prop drives appearing on many hulls for better grip. Capacity runs around 12 people. Used asking sits at $40,000-$60,000. It is a lot of bowrider for the money, but the size demands a tandem-axle trailer and a capable tow vehicle.

• Price: ~$40,000-$60,000
• Pros: Huge usable space, secure high-freeboard feel
• Cons: Needs a big trailer and tow rig

Verdict: Maximum bowrider room without going to a cabin boat.

5. 2006-2012 Crownline 220 EX / 220 LS

2006-2012 Crownline 220 EX / 220 LS

The 220 EX deck-boat-style bowrider and its 220 LS sibling deliver wide, open layouts at a friendly used price. Around 22 feet with a near 8-foot-6 beam, the EX's broad bow and squared-off layout maximize seating, making it a strong family entertainer. The ride stays composed thanks to Crownline's deep-V roots.

Engines are typically Mercruiser 5.0L or 5.7L sterndrives at 260-300 horsepower, returning low-40s mph. Capacity is about 10 people. Clean boats ask $24,000-$36,000. These are aging now, so inspect transom integrity and check for any soft spots in the cockpit sole during a survey.

• Price: ~$24,000-$36,000
• Pros: Wide social layout, affordable, composed ride
• Cons: Older hulls need careful transom and sole inspection

Verdict: A roomy family bowrider at an approachable price.

6. 2018-2023 Crownline 280 SS

2018-2023 Crownline 280 SS

The 280 SS sits near the top of Crownline's bowrider range and aims at buyers who want premium space and twin-engine muscle. At roughly 29 feet with a beam over 9 feet, it is a serious boat with stadium-style cockpit seating, a wet bar, and a head compartment tucked into the console.

Power can be a single big-block or twin Mercruiser sterndrives in the 600+ combined horsepower range, delivering strong performance for the weight. Capacity reaches around 14 people. Newer used units ask $90,000-$140,000. It is the most expensive to run and trailer, but few bowriders this size feel as finished.

• Price: ~$90,000-$140,000
• Pros: Big-water capability, premium finish, twin-engine options
• Cons: High running cost, needs serious tow and storage

Verdict: The flagship bowrider for buyers chasing size and luxury.

7. 2009-2014 Crownline 19 SS / 195 SS

2009-2014 Crownline 19 SS / 195 SS

The 195 SS is the entry point into the brand and a fine first boat. At about 19 feet with a 7-foot-10 beam, it is light, easy to tow with a midsize SUV, and simple to launch solo. Despite the small footprint, the bow seating and cockpit are usable for a young family or a couple.

A Mercruiser 4.3L V6 or 5.0L sterndrive at 190-260 horsepower is the norm, plenty for tubing and casual skiing. Capacity is around 7 people. Used boats ask $16,000-$24,000, making this the cheapest way into Crownline ownership. Just temper expectations on rough-water comfort given the short length.

• Price: ~$16,000-$24,000
• Pros: Easy to tow and launch, lowest entry cost
• Cons: Short hull rides rougher in chop, tight for big groups

Verdict: The best starter Crownline for new boaters on a budget.

8. 2014-2019 Crownline 235 SS

2014-2019 Crownline 235 SS

The 235 SS is the classic mid-size bowrider that defined the brand for many buyers. At roughly 23 feet with an 8-foot-6 beam, it balances towability against open-water comfort better than almost anything else in the lineup. The cockpit converts to a sun lounge, and the swim platform handles watersports well.

Expect a Mercruiser 6.2L sterndrive near 300-350 horsepower, often with a Bravo Three drive. Capacity runs around 10 people, and top speed lands in the low 40s. Used asking sits at $35,000-$50,000. It overlaps the E 235 but trades the newer stepped hull for a slightly lower price, which suits value-minded buyers.

• Price: ~$35,000-$50,000
• Pros: Balanced size, convertible cockpit, strong all-rounder
• Cons: Older hull design than the E-series

Verdict: The do-everything Crownline bowrider for most families.

9. 2007-2012 Crownline 240 CR Cruiser

2007-2012 Crownline 240 CR Cruiser

The 240 CR is the affordable entry into Crownline cruising. At about 26 feet with a near 8-foot-6 beam, it packs a surprising amount of cabin space, including a V-berth, an enclosed head, and a small galley, into a trailerable footprint. It suits couples who want weekend overnights without a slip-only mooring.

Power is commonly a Mercruiser 5.7L or 350 MAG sterndrive at 300-350 horsepower, adequate for cruising the heavier hull. Capacity is around 8 people. Used boats ask $28,000-$45,000. The value is excellent, but plan to budget for canvas, upholstery, and any sterndrive service on these older cabin boats.

• Price: ~$28,000-$45,000
• Pros: Real cabin at a low price, trailerable cruiser
• Cons: Aging systems, canvas and interior wear

Verdict: The budget path to overnighting under the Crownline badge.

10. 2015-2020 Crownline E 215 / Eclipse E215

2015-2020 Crownline E 215 / Eclipse E215

The E 215 brings Crownline's newer FAS3Tech stepped hull to a more compact, easily-towed package. At roughly 22 feet with an 8-foot-6 beam, it delivers a sharper, drier ride than the older 215 SS while staying manageable behind a properly rated tow vehicle. The layout is modern, with clean lines and a roomy bow.

A Mercruiser 4.5L or 6.2L sterndrive at 250-350 horsepower powers most hulls, with capacity around 10 people. Used asking runs $38,000-$55,000. It is a strong choice for a buyer who wants the latest hull tech in a trailerable size, though it commands a premium over the older 215 SS.

• Price: ~$38,000-$55,000
• Pros: Modern stepped hull, dry ride, trailerable
• Cons: Costs more than the older 215 SS

Verdict: The newer-tech compact bowrider for ride-quality seekers.

How to Choose

What to Look For

• Engine hours and service history — Sterndrive Crownlines live or die on bellows, gimbal bearing, and impeller upkeep; under 300 hours with records is ideal, and any saltwater boat should show riser and manifold service.
• Hull and transom integrity — Tap-test the transom and cockpit sole on boats over ten years old, and budget for a marine survey on anything above $30,000.
• Drive type — Bravo Three dual-prop drives grip and back down better than single-prop Alpha drives but cost more to service.
• Trailer condition — A solid included tandem-axle trailer can add real value and save you a separate purchase on the 23-foot-plus models.

FAQ

Which Crownline model is best for first-time boat buyers? The Crownline 21 SS / 215 SS is a great entry point. It’s trailerable, easy to handle, and offers that signature deep-V ride without a steep learning curve. Expect to find clean used examples in the $22,000–$32,000 range.

How many hours are too many on a used Crownline? On a sterndrive, 500–800 hours is common for well-maintained boats, but anything over 1,000 hours should raise caution unless service records are thorough. Engine hours matter more than hull age—a low-hour boat from the early 2000s can still be a solid buy.

Do Crownline boats hold their value well? Yes, especially the E 235 and 21 SS models. Crownline’s build quality and strong brand reputation help them retain 50–65% of original MSRP after 5–7 years, though actual resale varies by region and condition. Bowriders tend to hold value better than cruisers.

What’s the biggest maintenance issue to watch for on a Crownline? The sterndrive bellows and gimbal bearings are common wear points, especially in saltwater use. A failed bellows can sink the boat, so always check for cracks or leaks during a survey. Engine risers and manifolds also need inspection every 4–6 years.

Is the Crownline E 235 good for overnight trips? It’s a bowrider with a small cuddy cabin, so it’s fine for a weekend nap or changing clothes, but not for extended cruising. For true overnight capability, look at the Crownline 26 CR or 29 CR cruisers, which have full cabins and galley setups.

How does Crownline compare to similar brands like Chaparral or Four Winns? Crownline’s deep-V hull typically rides drier and sharper in chop than many competitors, but Chaparral offers more standard features for the price, and Four Winns has a slightly softer ride. Crownline’s fit-and-finish and resale value are generally on par with both.

Bottom Line

For the best balance of ride, room, and resale, the Crownline E 235 / Eclipse E235 is the standout overall pick at roughly $55,000-$75,000 used. Shoppers watching their budget should target the Crownline 21 SS / 215 SS around $22,000-$32,000 for the brand's signature dry ride at a fraction of the cost. Whichever you choose, buy on engine hours and a survey, not gelcoat shine.

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Sources

• Boat Trader — Crownline listings, pricing, and specifications
• Discover Boating — bowrider and deck boat buying guides
• NADA Guides — used Crownline value ranges
• Boating Magazine — Crownline model reviews and hull testing
• BoatUS — marine survey and used-boat inspection guidance
• Mercury Marine and Volvo Penta — sterndrive engine specifications

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