Cutwater Boats Unveils CW26 and CW28 Semidisplacement Pilothouse Cruisers

Fluid Motion, the designer and builder behind the Ranger Tugs brand, has launched a new line of semidisplacement pilothouse boats intended for cruising, fishing and comfortable overnighting. Marketed under the Cutwater Boats name, the initial models in the series—the CW26 and CW28—focus on efficient, single-diesel propulsion, trailerability and practical accommodations for couples or small families.

Design and Purpose

Designed by Fluid Motion owners Dave and John Livingston, the CW26 and CW28 are compact semidisplacement cruisers with features tailored to coastal cruising and weekend escapes. The hulls use a semidisplacement form with reverse chines and a protective keel to balance stability, efficiency and a comfortable ride at moderate speeds. A significant design choice is the deep engine placement within the hull, which lowers the center of gravity and helps maintain a shallow draft—beneficial for nearshore cruising and trailer launching. This engine location also permits a 6-degree shaft angle, improving drivetrain alignment and propulsion efficiency.

Single Diesel Propulsion

Both models are built around a single Yanmar diesel installation. Cutwater’s approach emphasizes the advantages of a single efficient diesel—reduced fuel consumption, lower operating costs and simpler maintenance compared with twin gasoline installations. Mark Mansfield, national sales manager for Cutwater Boats, notes that many owners of twin-engine gas boats are looking to reduce operating costs, and the CW26 and CW28 are positioned as practical alternatives for those buyers. The CW28 is offered with a 260-hp six-cylinder Yanmar that delivers a top speed of about 30 mph and a comfortable cruise near 25 mph. The CW26 is specified with a 180-hp four-cylinder Yanmar; detailed performance data for the CW26 were not available at press time.

Layout and Amenities

Both models feature a pilothouse helm located on the starboard side, offering sheltered, all-weather control and good visibility. Interior accommodations include a V-berth master stateroom forward, a compact yet functional galley, and a head with a stand-up shower—arrangements designed to support overnight cruises and short-term liveaboard use. Practical touches aimed at cruiser convenience make the boats ready for extended days on the water without sacrificing simplicity.

Standard Equipment and Options

The CW26 and CW28 come well equipped from the factory. Standard gear includes an anchor windlass, bow and stern thrusters for easy close-quarters handling, and a spotlight for nighttime maneuvering. A generator is available as an option for owners who require additional electrical capacity for air conditioning or larger domestic systems. The CW28 also offers an aft steering option for owners who prefer a cockpit helm arrangement in addition to the pilothouse command station.

Dimensions, Capacities and Practical Details

Both boats share an 8-foot, 6-inch beam and a shallow 28-inch draft, making them manageable on trailers and in shallower anchorages. With the mast lowered, bridge clearance is 9 feet, 1 inch—suitable for many rivers and fixed-span bridges. Fuel capacity differs between the models: the CW26 carries 80 gallons while the CW28 holds 100 gallons, supporting longer range between refueling stops depending on speed and load.

Pricing, Debut and Contact

Base pricing at introduction places the CW28 with the 260-hp Yanmar at $169,937 and the CW26 with the 180-hp Yanmar at $139,937. The first East Coast public showing of both models was scheduled for the Miami International Boat Show. For further information, contact Cutwater Boats in Monroe, Washington; phone: (800) 349-7198. The Cutwater Boats website is listed as www.cutwaterboats.com for reference (site address provided as text only).

This report originally appeared in the March 2011 issue. Brokerage listings are powered by BoatQuest.com.

These compact semidisplacement pilothouse models are intended to appeal to owners seeking economical single-diesel propulsion, trailerable convenience and comfortable overnight accommodations in a small, capable hull. The CW26 and CW28 combine practical design choices with a comprehensive list of standard equipment to offer a compelling option for weekend cruisers, anglers and coastal travelers.