Cruisers Yachts 50 GLS Debuts at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in the fall is traditionally a hotspot for new model launches, and the 2022 edition was no different. Among the many introductions, the world debut of the Cruisers Yachts 50 GLS drew particularly strong interest. From the moment the show opened, Hull No. 1 remained crowded as visitors explored the new flagship’s features and amenities.

Two elements helped make the 50 GLS a show-stopper: its twin fold-out “beach doors,” demonstrated at the reveal, and a stout power package—three 600-hp Mercury V-12 Verado outboards—capable of pushing the yacht past 48 knots. Interest was immediate: within hours, the builder had taken the first order for the model.

“Interest was high. It was clearly a hot introduction at the show,” said Matt VanGrunsven, marketing director at Cruisers Yachts.

Design Intent and Positioning

The 50 GLS is the new flagship of Cruisers’ Grand Luxury Sport (GLS) lineup, joining the 34, 38 and 42 models. Initially considered as a 48-footer, the design was expanded to just over 50 feet to create a more voluminous two-stateroom yacht that balances entertaining space with comfortable cruising. According to VanGrunsven, the GLS family attracts a wide range of buyers—owners stepping down from larger yachts as well as those trading up from weekend boats—so the 50 aims to provide a natural next step.

Main-Deck Layout and Features

On a sea trial out of MarineMax North Miami, the 50 GLS demonstrated how design trends from large dayboats have been integrated into a true offshore platform. The electric beach doors are an evolution of features found on the smaller GLS models: the 38 has one door and the 42 two. On the 50 GLS, those doors expand the beam from 14 feet 6 inches to approximately 21 feet, dramatically enlarging the main deck and cockpit footprint.

The main deck is essentially a single, open level (aside from the raised dinette dais), which promotes free movement from bow to swim platform and encourages socializing, sunbathing and easy access to the water. The floor is finished in Flexiteek, giving the look of teak with the durability of synthetic decking.

Seating throughout is abundant and finished in Ultraleather, from the bow bench with automotive-style armrests to the dinette and three aft sofas forming a comfortable outdoor lounge. A standard Makefast sunshade deploys from the coachroof to shelter the cockpit at the push of a button.

Galley, Entertaining and Systems

Entertaining is well supported. Opposite the dinette sits a wet bar with counter space, sink, storage and a refrigerator (with an optional second fridge available). The transom contains a cabinet with an electric grill and sink, while an icemaker sits under the helm seat and a chiller box is located forward. A clever bow feature converts a starboard sole panel into a cocktail table at the touch of a button.

Audio is handled by a JL Audio system with multiple zones and individual controls, and Cruisers integrated the speakers into custom fiberglass housings in the coachroof for a clean appearance. Modern digital switching simplifies wiring and operation: three 19-inch Simrad multifunction displays at the helm allow the captain to control electrical systems through CZone, including side windows, the sunroof, the bow sliding door, lighting and an optional pop-up cockpit TV.

Accommodations Belowdecks

Belowdecks, the 50 GLS is arranged as a two-stateroom layout ideal for two couples or weekend cruising. The interior features high-gloss mocha wood cabinetry and a classic décor. The forward master has an island queen berth, TV entertainment system, skylights and a side window that opens onto the walkaround for ventilation. Though a second door from the master into the head would have been convenient, that space is used for a hanging locker—an intentional trade-off that increases storage.

The head, accessed from the companionway, is roomy with generous counter space, a sink and a large shower stall. A small microwave and a refrigerator in the companionway let owners prepare coffee before heading up on deck. The midcabin includes an athwartships double berth and U-shaped seating and can serve as a cabin, media lounge or cool retreat from the sun. It lacks a door, so privacy for two couples may require a curtain across the entry.

Offshore Capability and Systems

The 50 GLS is not limited to protected waters. Cruisers equipped the hull with a 24-degree deadrise at the transom for offshore use, stainless steel grabrails, and high-sided walkways on the port side for added safety. The design includes space for an optional Seakeeper 6 gyrostabilizer and houses the 16-kW Kohler diesel generator in the machinery room. Storage for a tender is modest, but the tilting outboard motors improve access to shallow anchorages.

Performance and Handling

Powered by triple 600-hp Mercury V-12 Verado outboards, the 50 GLS delivers a quiet, refined driving experience. Docking and close-quarters maneuvers are simplified with joystick control and a standard 240-volt bow thruster. Cruisers reports a fuel capacity that supports a range of 282 nautical miles at a fast cruising speed of 37 knots at 5,000 rpm.

During our trial on the Intracoastal Waterway, the boat accelerated onto plane quickly. At a captain-recommended cruising speed of 35 knots, the 50 GLS felt composed and efficient. In high-speed turns the yacht leaned into corners with a surprisingly sporty feel for its size. With half a tank and runs in both directions, we recorded about 48.2 knots at WOT—close to Cruisers’ tested top speed.

Conclusion

Fast, well-equipped and comfortable, the Cruisers Yachts 50 GLS fulfills its role as the flagship of the Grand Luxury Sport series. It skillfully combines large-dayboat design ideas—like expansive cockpit space and innovative beach doors—with the offshore capability and accommodations needed for extended cruising. The result is a versatile, attention-grabbing yacht that appeals to owners who want both entertaining space and genuine performance.

This article was originally published in the February 2023 issue.