Baja 342

Brief Summary

The 342 is the entry-level boat in Baja’s “luxury performance” series, and it’s a good place to start for anyone new to- or moving-up in performance boating.

Key Features

Twin McLeod bolster seats (optional) really lock you and your navigator into position at the helm while power steering, dual-ram performance trim tabs, and Kiekhaefer controls give you the performance feel you’re looking for. A small integral swim platform with ladder and large sunpad/engine hatch are standard equipment here along with a well-finished interior.

Test Results

Specifications

Length Overall	34' 2''
Beam	8' 6''
Dry Weight	8,200 lbs.
Draft	3' 4''
Deadrise/Transom	24 deg.
Max Headroom	open
Bridge Clearance	N/A
Fuel Capacity	185 gal.
Water Capacity	16 gal.

Acceleration Times & Conditions

Time to Plane	N/A
0 to 30	N/A
Ratio	1.5:1
Props	14x28
Load	-fuel, -water, 4 persons on board, min. cruising gear
Climate	Temp: 79F, Humid: 70%, Wind: 5-10 knots, Seas: 1-2 feet

Engine Options

Tested Engine	2 x 415-hp MerCruiser 502 MPI (Bravo I)
Std. Power	2 x 375-hp MerCruiser Mag
Opt. Power	2x 425HP MerCruiser Mag HO 2x 525HP MerCruiser HP 525 EFI 2x 600HP MerCruiser HP 600 SCI

Warranty

Deck Warranty Extended	Limited Lifetime
Engine Warranty Extended	2 years - Mercruiser or Volvo
Gelcoat Warranty Extended	1 year
Hull Warranty Extended	Limited Lifetime

Captain's Report

At 34’2” overall, the 342 is big enough to give you a smooth ride even at high speed. And when we say “high” we mean it…our out-of-the-box 342 hit a top-end speed of just over 70 mph which is plenty to rearrange everybody’s hairdo. Her traditional deep-V bottom tracks straight and true with no tendency to chine walk, and Baja continues to make its case against step bottoms by proving it with the sure-footed carving and handling of the 342. And thanks to the fuel economy of the Merc 502 EFI sterndrives, the 342 can run for nearly 400 miles at 42mph on a single stop at the fuel dock. Down below she has adult-size luxury accommodations for two, or four in a pinch. But the cabin—with its full galley and enclosed head—is also a pretty nice place to hang out while waiting for the rainstorm to pass by. All in all, the 342 represents a way to get into performance boating at a price point that won’t sink your boating budget.