The Cruisers Yachts VTR series brings a fresh sense of adventure to luxury boating. Designed for boaters who want to cruise, entertain, explore, and enjoy watersports without sacrificing comfort, the lineup combines versatile deck spaces, premium amenities, and confident outboard performance.
The VTR name stands for Venture. Trek. Roam. That adventurous spirit is reflected throughout both models in the series: the open Cruisers Yachts 38 VTR and the enclosed 38 VTR EC.
While the two models share many of the same core features, each offers a distinct boating experience. Here is a closer look at the Cruisers Yachts VTR lineup and which model may be the better fit for your time on the water.
What Makes the Cruisers Yachts VTR Series Different?
The Cruisers Yachts VTR series was designed for active days that can include everything from cruising and entertaining to kayaking, fishing, diving, and watersports.
Both models feature spacious single level layouts, deep decks, wide walkways, and extensive storage. Available roof racks make it easier to bring paddleboards, kayaks, or bikes, while the large transom storage compartment provides room for inflatables, fishing equipment, dive gear, and other essentials.
Additional highlights of the VTR series include:
- A beach door that expands access to the water
- Versatile cockpit seating and entertaining configurations
- A comfortable bow lounge
- A wet bar with an available electric grill
- A private head with a shower
- A convertible forward berth
- Twin Mercury Verado outboard power
- Joystick control for easier maneuvering
- A hybrid stepped hull designed for a smooth, confident ride
- NMMA and Yacht Certification
With an overall length of 40 feet with the outboards down and an 11 foot 10 inch beam, both VTR models offer plenty of usable space for family, friends, and gear.
Cruisers Yachts 38 VTR: Open Air Adventure
The 2026 Cruisers Yachts 38 VTR delivers an open layout designed for boaters who want to feel connected to the water throughout the day.
Its open cockpit creates a spacious social area where guests can dine, relax, or prepare for the next activity. Helm seats can rotate to face aft, helping transform the cockpit into a comfortable gathering space. Different aft configurations allow owners to prioritize open deck space, additional seating, storage, or another sleeping area.
The 38 VTR is especially well suited for:
- Warm weather cruising
- Entertaining family and friends
- Sandbar trips and swimming
- Paddleboarding, kayaking, and watersports
- Boaters who prefer an open air layout
- Day trips with occasional overnight stays
Below deck, the forward cabin includes a convertible dinette that becomes a berth. A skylight brings natural light into the cabin, while the full head provides a shower, sink, toilet, and storage.
The in stock 2026 Cruisers Yachts 38 VTR at Strong’s Marine is powered by twin 300 horsepower Mercury Verado outboards and includes joystick piloting, dual 15 inch Simrad Ultrawide displays, a cockpit grill, roof mounted light bar, tow bar, rod holders, premium stereo package, and the Fathom lithium ion power system.
Cruisers Yachts 38 VTR EC: All Weather Comfort
The 2026 Cruisers Yachts 38 VTR EC builds on the versatility of the open VTR by adding an enclosed cockpit.
The EC designation stands for Enclosed Cockpit. This protected helm and seating area provides panoramic views while helping keep guests comfortable when the weather changes. Available air conditioning and heat make it possible to enjoy the boat during hot summer afternoons, cool spring mornings, and later into the fall.
The 38 VTR EC is a strong choice for:
- Boaters who want greater protection from the elements
- Early and late season cruising
- Longer trips and overnight escapes
- Families seeking additional climate controlled comfort
- Entertaining in changing weather
- Long Island boaters who want to extend their season
The enclosed cockpit does not eliminate the open air experience. Guests can still enjoy the spacious bow lounge, aft deck, beach door, wet bar, and direct access to the water.
Below deck, the 38 VTR EC includes a convertible forward berth and full head. Available aft sleeping accommodations provide additional overnight space for family or guests.
The Cruisers Yachts 38 VTR EC was also named a 2026 Boating Industry Top Product for its combination of versatile functionality, refined styling, and premium onboard comfort.
2026 Cruisers Yachts 38 VTR EC
Cruisers Yachts 38 VTR vs. 38 VTR EC
The main difference between the two models is the cockpit.
The 38 VTR offers a more open, connected feel that is ideal for warm weather activities and entertaining. The 38 VTR EC adds an enclosed, climate controlled cockpit for greater protection and a potentially longer boating season.
Choose the 38 VTR if you prioritize:
- Open air cruising
- Maximum connection to the water
- Warm weather entertaining
- A sportier, more open cockpit experience
Choose the 38 VTR EC if you prioritize:
- Protection from wind, rain, and changing temperatures
- Climate controlled comfort
- Spring and fall boating
- Longer trips in varying conditions
Because the models share many of the same adventure focused features, the right choice ultimately comes down to how and when you plan to use your boat.
Is the Cruisers Yachts VTR Right for Northeast Boating?
The Cruisers Yachts VTR series is particularly well suited for boating throughout the Northeast, where conditions, destinations, and seasons can vary significantly.
From cruising Long Island and the New York coastline to exploring the Jersey Shore or Connecticut’s coastal communities, both VTR models provide the flexibility needed for day trips, watersports, entertaining, and overnight escapes. The beach door and generous gear storage make it easy to enjoy the water, while the cabin and full head add comfort for longer adventures.
For boaters who want greater protection from changing Northeast weather, the enclosed cockpit of the 38 VTR EC can help extend the season into the cooler spring and fall months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VTR stand for on Cruisers Yachts?
VTR stands for Venture. Trek. Roam. The series is designed for active boaters who want to combine cruising, entertaining, watersports, and overnight comfort.
What is the difference between the 38 VTR and 38 VTR EC?
The 38 VTR has an open cockpit, while the 38 VTR EC features an enclosed cockpit that provides additional protection and climate controlled comfort.
Can you stay overnight on a Cruisers Yachts 38 VTR?
Yes. Both models include a forward cabin with a dinette that converts into a berth. Depending on the selected configuration, an additional aft berth may also be available.
What engines are available on the Cruisers Yachts 38 VTR?
Cruisers Yachts offers twin Mercury V8 Verado 300 horsepower outboards or twin Mercury V10 Verado 400 horsepower outboards. The models currently in stock at Strong’s Marine are equipped with twin 300 horsepower Mercury Verado outboards.
Where can I find a Cruisers Yachts VTR in the Northeast?
Strong’s Marine is the exclusive Cruisers Yachts dealer for New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. We currently have both the 2026 Cruisers Yachts 38 VTR and 38 VTR EC in stock. Contact our team to schedule a private showing and compare both models firsthand.
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