Pulse Reviews and Analysis
Best Crownline Boat Models (Ranked)
Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO, CRO Syndicate
Best Crownline Boat Models (Ranked)
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.
Direct Answer
The best overall Crownline is the Crownline E 235 / Eclipse E235, a roomy sterndrive bowrider that blends ride quality, layout, and resale at roughly $55,000-$75,000 used. The best value is the Crownline 21 SS / 215 SS, a clean trailerable bowrider that delivers Crownline's signature ride for around $22,000-$32,000.
Buy on engine hours and a survey, not just looks: a sharp gelcoat can hide a tired sterndrive.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Are Crownline boats good quality? Yes. Crownline is regarded as a strong mid-to-upper tier builder known for hand-laid hulls, quality stainless hardware, and durable gelcoat. They typically hold value better than mass-market brands, though they sell mostly used since the company has scaled back production.
What is the best Crownline for a family? The E 235 / Eclipse E235 is the top all-around family pick for its room, dry ride, and resale. If budget is tighter, the 215 SS or 235 SS offer similar family utility for less money.
Do Crownline boats hold their value? Generally yes. Crownline's reputation for build quality and styling helps used examples depreciate more slowly than many competitors, especially the well-maintained E-series bowriders and the cruiser models.
What engines do Crownline boats use? Most Crownlines run Mercruiser or Volvo Penta sterndrive gas engines, ranging from a 4.3L V6 on small models up to 8.2L big-blocks and twin-engine setups on the largest bowriders and cruisers.
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.
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
*Keywords: Best Crownline Boat Models (Ranked) — review, reviews, rating, comparison, best of 2027.*