Access More Boat Tests

Captain's reports and/or test numbers for this model are archived.

To get full access to this content, please:

login   or   Register

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS (2022-)

2 x 300-hp Mercury Verados



Brief Summary

The 34 GLS is the third boat of the series from Cruisers Yachts that focuses on entertainment. GLS stands for Grand Luxury Sport and the series is defined as an open style cruiser with a mid-cabin.

Test Results

RPM MPH Knots GPH MPG NMPG SM NM dBa
600 3.6 3.1 1.4 2.6 2.3 514 446.6 62
1000 5.2 4.5 2.6 2 1.8 398 346.3 63.2
1500 7.1 6.1 4.1 1.7 1.5 336 292 70
2000 8.8 7.7 6.3 1.4 1.2 273 237.2 72.9
2500 9.7 8.4 8.7 1.1 1 218 189.3 75
3000 10 8.7 13.5 0.7 0.6 145 125.8 76.5
3500 10.6 9.2 19.2 0.6 0.5 108 94 80.6
4000 18.3 15.9 23.7 0.8 0.7 151 131 82.4
4500 31.2 27.1 26.2 1.2 1 233 202.3 87
5000 36.7 31.9 31.8 1.2 1 225 196 88
5500 41.5 36 40.5 1 0.9 200 173.8 87.5
6000 45.2 39.3 48.9 0.9 0.8 181 157 87.9
Cruisers 34 GLS

Specifications

Length Overall 35'10"
10.92 m
Beam 11'8"
3.56 m
Dry Weight 14,530 lbs.
6,590.7 kg
Tested Weight 15,222 lbs.
6,904.58 kg
Draft 29"
73.66 cm
Deadrise/Transom 21 degrees
Bridge Clearance 12'5"
3.78 m
Fuel Capacity 217 gallons
821.43 L
Water Capacity 50 gallons
189.27 L
Total Weight 15,222 lbs.
6,904.58 kg

Acceleration Times & Conditions

Time to Plane 6.4 seconds
0 to 30 14.0 seconds
Props 16 x 16.5
Load 3 persons; 107 gal. fuel; 50 lbs. gear

Engine Options

Tested Engine 2 x 300-hp Mercury Verados
Std. Power 2 x 300-hp Mercury Verados

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS OB: The Third Model of the GLS Series is The Smallest and Feature-Rich

Captain's Report by Capt. Steve

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS

The 34 GLS is the third boat of the luxury entertainment series of boats from Cruisers Yachts.

Mission

GLS stands for Grand Luxury Sport and the Cruisers Yachts 34 is defined as an open-style cruiser with a mid-cabin.  Cruisers Yachts will power the boat with either outboard or sterndrive, but regardless, the interior is optimized for cruising and overnighting.  Versatility seems to be the key element of these cruiser boats with as many different facets of boating being possible, all within a single footprint. 

Know Your Limitations

About the only thing being left off the mix with the 2022 Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS is fishing and that is by intentional design.  Fishing is something that really isn’t dabbled on, you’re either in or you're out.  Fiddling in it doesn’t work and Cruisers Yachts knows this. We have to give high marks for them to admit this and not toss in a livewell and a few rod holders and say “look, we do fishing as well!”  As I said in the summary above, no half measures. 

Major Features on the Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS

  • Single-level main deck
  • Two L-shaped cockpit seats
  • Convertible aft seat
  • Galley-up design
  • SIMRAD Glass-dash
  • Wraparound Bow seating
  • Rockford Fosgate stereo
  • Booth style dinette below
  • Roomy mid-cabin

Performance

The Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS has an LOA of 35’10” (10.93 m), a beam of 11’8” (3.56 m) and a draft of 29” (73.66 cm). With the twin 300-hp Mercury Verados turning 16 x 16.5 propellers and running up to 6000 RPM, our speed topped out at 45.2 MPH. Best cruise came in at 4500 RPM and 31.2 MPH. At that speed, the 26.2 GPH fuel burn translated into 1.2 MPG and a range of 233 statute miles all while still holding back a 10% reserve of the boat's 217-gallon (821.4 L) total fuel capacity. 

In acceleration tests, we reached planing speed in an average of 6.4 seconds, hit 20 mph in 7.8 seconds and 30 came and went in 14 seconds.  

Handling

The hull on the Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS is designed by Ocean5, the same company that designed the 38 and 42 GLS. The 34 GLS handles chop well and requires no adjustment to the tabs when running as she just naturally finds her optimum running attitude.  

The 34 GLS is an easy and fun boat to drive.  You really don't have to do anything but drive… leave the outboard trim on auto-turn and let them do their thing. As for the trim tabs, I only used those for an uneven distribution of weight. 

When I had more people over to one side I just used tabs to level the boat out.  We were in calm conditions on the Intracoastal Waterway so really no chop or anything like that to contend with or comment on except for wakes of passing boats.  I went through those with no hull slap and no pounding.  We just sliced right through those with no adverse effects whatsoever. 

Engines

The standard engines on the Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS are the engines on our test boat, the twin 300-hp Mercury Verados.  Optional choices are twin 350s, 400s or 450 racing engines.   

Now while we tested the outboard version of the 34 GLS, there is a sterndrive version.  Cruisers Yachts takes the mold for the outboard version, adds a plug to the transom and modifies the stringers. There’s also a slight change to the aft platform as that can now be hydraulically actuated.  And voila, a sterndrive version.  

Boat Inspection

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Main Deck Layout

With the wide beam, the social zones are well spread out on the 34 GLS.  Notice the dual aft seat at the swim platform.  Two L-shaped seats in the cockpit offer opposing conversations. 

Platform

Even with the twin outboards, there are still dual platforms on both sides and a walkway across the front of the engines on the Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS.  This 28” (71.12 cm) deep “service platform” in effect fills the engine well with an additional walkway.  However, when it comes time to tilt the engines out of the water, simply flip the platform up and out of the way.  The entire area is treated with SeaDek so wet feet are welcome and will not be sliding across the deck. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Swim Platform

Cruisers did not sacrifice the social aspect of the swim platform when it added outboards to the stern of the 34 GLS. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Service Platform

When it’s time to tilt the engines up, the “service platform” lifts up and out of the way. 

Ahead of the platform are two seats, separated by a walkthrough to the cockpit.  To starboard is a 54” (137.16 cm) wide seat.  To port is a 21” (53.34 cm).  Storage is under both. 

Single Level

One significant upgrade with the Cruisers 34 GLS is the single-level deck, from the stern to the bow.  That is something that can’t be understated and a lot of users just seem to miss the importance of something like this.  But once you fail to negotiate that step down as you come from the bow, and land hard, your back will make sure you never forget it.

The same goes for the stumble as you move from the cockpit to the helm area as the boat rolls on a wave and you go flying over the step.  It makes a difference when the deck is on a single level.  Flooring is optional SeaDek and Cruisers Yachts tells us that every GLS to date has gone out the door with that option installed. 

Cockpit

Cockpit seating on the Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS consists of two large L-shaped seats to port and starboard.  Both have flip seatbacks on opposite ends from each other.  The one to port has the flip seatback forward so it converts to an observer’s seat when underway.  The one to starboard starts with the seatback in the center of the aft pad. So it’s usable from the forward area and the aft section for watching the action off the stern while at anchor or when otherwise not underway.

Now, release the latch and move it all the way aft and it lays flat to form a full sunpad.  Walk into the cockpit and lift the forward seat and elevate it into one of three chaise lounge positions.  Two nicely finished solid wood pedestal tables add to the functionality and both have a pair of integrated stainless-steel beverage holders. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Sunpad

With the seatback moved to the rear, a sunpad is created. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Chaise Lounge

By lifting the forward seat base, a chaise lounge is created.  It adjusts into three positions. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Cockpit Tables

There are two cockpit tables.  Choose to utilize one, or both.  One can also transfer to the bow. 

Storage

Naturally, there is storage under the seats on the Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS.  Because we have outboard power on this boat, there’s a massive storage space in the deck where there would otherwise be a pair of sterndrive engines.  In this configuration, this would also be considered a mechanical room as it houses all the bilge pumps, steering pumps, batteries… etc.  If this boat has a generator and Seakeeper, they’d be here as well. 

Galley

The clever way to accommodate this seating was to move the galley area aft and to port.  There’s an optional grill and a standard sink.  Both are covered and there’s an electrical kill switch that shuts power off to the grill when the cover is in place.  Below is an owner’s choice of an optional refrigerator or icemaker.

There’s also a trash receptacle.  A refrigerator option is also available on the Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS for the end of the helm seat, which may make the icemaker option more attractive for the galley area. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Galley Grill

The galley includes an optional grill.  Below we can see the refrigerator that was installed on our test boat.  This can be swapped out for an icemaker.  Notice across and under the helm seat is another refrigerated drawer. 

Now the two refrigerators, the 110-V outlets, the air conditioning and the microwave down below can all be powered by an optional 5-kW diesel generator or an eFathom inverter powered by lithium batteries that will last all day.   

To Top It All Off

Above it all is a standard, full fiberglass hardtop.  An optional SureShade extends from the trailing edge. There’s also a bow shade that attaches to the leading edge and gets supported by stainless-steel poles inserted into bow sockets.  So we can effectively shade this Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS from bow to stern.  Additionally, there’s an optional sunroof that's manually-opened, so there’s nothing to fail years down the road. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Sunroof

A manually opening sunroof is an option for the standard hardtop. 

Helm

The helm has Simrad’s glass dash with dual 9” (22.86 cm) displays.  A single display is standard, the upgrade includes a second display as well as radar.  The Mercury DTS (Digital Throttle and Shift), the JPO (Joystick Piloting for Outboards) and the SmartCraft interface with the Simrad displays are all standard.

At 37” (93.98 cm) the helm seat is more seat-and-a-half than a double-wide.  It includes a single flip bolster and flip armrests are to both sides.  Below is an optional refrigerated drawer. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Helm

With a glass dash, the helm remains uncluttered and orderly. 

Now because I’m Capt. Steve and I’m so nitpicky, I have to find just one thing that I’d like to see changed at this helm.  While I have to give high marks to Cruisers for adding a cellphone holder with an inductive charger, it’s way in the back and to starboard, behind the controls and far out of sight.

I’d like to see it placed in the dead spot to the right side of the helm console where there is currently nothing.  That’s about the only thing I’d change here.  Everything else is done extremely well. 

Bow

The portside walkthrough to the bow takes full advantage of the wide beam by measuring in at 22” (55.88 cm). There are two storage compartments in the bulwarks for storing lines on this Cruisers boat.  We can close off the windshield and a lower air dam for operating on those chilly mornings. 

The bow in the 34 GLS is similar in size and layout to the 38.  Thanks to the deep freeboard in this boat, the deck is single level and the 33” (83.82 cm) cockpit depth is quite safe. 

Seating is wraparound from the aft section to starboard and across the bow.  There’s storage under all seats.  A pedestal table adds to the functionality and can be lowered to form a full sunpad with the addition of a filler cushion.

There’s also a 48-qt (45.42 L) carry-on cooler.  The aft seats have flip armrests at the portside and in the middle, which include dual beverage holders.  To starboard, the armrest is built into the bulwarks. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Bow Seating

The bow seating encourages a conversational atmosphere.  Storage is under all seats.  The aft seatback has a flip-down armrest.  To the side are beverage holders and armrests plus speakers and connectivity for smartphones. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Armrests

The flip-down armrest has integrated stainless-steel beverage holders. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Seating

There’s storage under the seats and in the deck.  Under the aft center seat is a 48-qt (45.42 L) carry-on cooler. 

 

Under a hatch at the foredeck on the Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS is an optional Quick windlass.  The hatch is kept from opening to the extreme and breaking the hinges by a cable.  It closes on a lift and lock latch.  Control switches are alongside.   

Now is also a good time to discuss the stereo upgrade to the Rockford Fosgate system.  There’s a four-zone system available: the bow, the helm, the stern and the cabin.  Each can be controlled individually so one can be rocking away while casual conversation can be held in another.  

Cabin

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Lower Deck

The lower deck is able to sleep three in this capable weekender. 

The cabin on the Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS is accessed from a sliding door to the portside of the helm. The entry is fitted with a sliding bug screen. 

The lower salon features booth-style seating with a table in between.  A TV is to the forward bulkhead.  This area can convert into a berth by lowering the table and adding a filler cushion.  An optional microwave and refrigerator can be installed in this lower deck area. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Cabin Table

Dining at the cabin table is more intimate with booth-style seating.  It’s also easier to get in and out of than the V-style seating we usually see. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Dining Area

Dropping the table and adding filler cushions easily converts the dining area into a berth. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Microwave

The optional microwave is mounted just above the hullside window.  Notice the stereo control with connectivity just around the corner. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Main Electrical Panel

The main electrical panel is cleverly concealed behind the dinette seatback. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Mid-Cabin

There’s also a mid-cabin that serves as a dedicated sleeping area with a 72” x 30” (182.88 cm x 76.20 cm) and an overhead clearance of 30” (76.20 cm). 

Head

The head is a “wet-head” with an electric flush toilet.  A vessel sink is mounted atop the Corian counter.  A hullside window has integrated portlights to supplement the ventilation from an electric extractor fan. 

A storage cabinet above has mirrored doors that I’d like to see angled down for a better viewing angle.  More storage is below.  There’s a separate shower wand that hangs on the aft bulkhead so we don’t have to pull out the sink sprayer.  A shower curtain keeps the water contained in the shower area and not the counter or cabinetry. 

Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS Head

The head has standing room for showering.  The hullside window has an integrated portlight for ventilation and counters are Corian. 

Options to Consider on the Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS

  • Diesel generator (5kW) with 25-gallon (94.64 L) fuel tank
  • Seakeeper
  • eFathom Inverter
  • South Beach Package — Gray or Black hull and deck
  • Air Conditioning
  • Battery
  • Cockpit Icemaker 
  • Cockpit Table
  • Cockpit Washdown System
  • Full Enclosure Canvas
  • Grill
  • Foredeck Shade
  • Premium Electronics Premium Speaker Upgrade 
  • Refrigerator
  • Interior Refrigerator — Helm Seat
  • SeaDek 
  • SureShade — Black
  • TV
  • Underwater Lights
  • VHF Radio
  • Windlass

Price 

The Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS is priced at $639,231 as tested and nicely equipped. 

Observations

There really isn’t a lot to be desired on the Cruisers Yachts 34 GLS.  She’s as feature-rich as her larger siblings, minus some obvious items such as the side balconies.  The simple fact is when Cruisers Yachts sets out to make a smaller version of a luxury lineup, very little gets sacrificed. What does is only due to size limitations. 

Long experience has shown that when a builder crams 10 pounds in a 5-pound box, everyone suffers.  We think the 34 is an ideal balance of size, luxury and features that makes the GLS line proud.  It should certainly make Cruisers Yachts proud.