As a Crownline Boats dealer, we get asked often about the brand and where they stack up against other premium fiberglass boat builders. When you’re in the market for a new boat, especially a bowrider, deck boat, or runabout, it’s natural to wonder, “Are Crownline boats any good?” We’ve learned over the past few years that the majority of our new Crownline customers, have already owned a Crownline or are familiar with the brand but aside from Crownline’s website, there’s is not a lot of information out there that details exactly what makes Crownline a ‘premium’ fibreglass boat builder comparable to other well known brands like Cobalt, Regal, Chapparal & others. This article is an in-depth look at what you need to know before considering a new premium fiberglass bowrider, deck boat or runabout from Crownline, focusing on the boats Contruction, longevity & performance. 

Construction

Crownline boats are renowned for their construction process, making some of the strongest and most durable boats on the market. This is thanks to a extremely refined and precise building process that is widely considered the best of any largge-scale production boat company. The fiberglass hull is built using a multi-layered approach, starting with 25 ml thick high grade gel coat, then a 100ml thick layer of bidirectional fiberglass, followed by 24 ounces of woven roving for added reinforcement, and then another 100ml thick layer of bidirectional fiberglass. Coremat is also glassed in for extra rigidity, and the hand-fitted stringer system is thoroughly glassed and tapped into the hull mold, with the stringer cavities filled with composite material. 

The result is a rock-solid boat that is highly resistant to cracking and structural damage, even under impact. A thorough and well thought-out build process is key to a boats longevity so it will be safe & reliable for decades. The benefit to this longevity can also be seen is resale values of Crownline Boats, ranking among the highest in the industry for holding their value with publications like NADA & J.D. Power. See a Regal vs Cobalt vs Crownline resale comparison we did, according to J.D. Power Data. 

Other than more resiliency and better resale value, what is the advantage of having a thicker, better-built hull? Building the boats this way will increase the overall weight of the boat significantly which translates in to a smoother, quieter, safer and more comfortable ride all around. This is apparent when you get out on the water on a Crownline and feel how they handle the water. In fact, Crownline boats are up to 15% heavier than comparable competitive models (ie: 22 foot models from various brands). But with this added weight, it’s natural to wonder if there are any performance downsides to Crownline boats? Let’s explore that question. 

Performance: Do Heavier Boats Affect Speed and Handling?

A common concern with heavier boats is whether they sacrifice speed, acceleration, or fuel efficiency. So, are Crownline boats less sporty due to their weight? The short answer is no—and here’s why.

F.A.S.T. Tab Hull Design All Crownline boats come equipped with F.A.S.T. (Fin Assisted Safe Turn) hull technology. This unique feature introduces a vented chine that channels air under the hull as the boat gains speed. By introducing more air, the boat gains lift, reducing resistance and allowing for increased speed, quicker acceleration, and better fuel economy. Essentially, Crownline boats can maintain top-tier performance without the engine having to work harder, despite their heavier construction.

Improved Handling and Control While the vented chine offers numerous benefits, it can cause some boats to “slide” more on the water, impacting cornering ability. However, Crownline addresses this with an intelligently designed fin built into the hull, allowing for sharp turns and precise control, especially during watersports or high-speed maneuvering.

Additionally, the combination of the vented chine and the turning fin improves low-speed handling, making tasks like docking, trailer loading, and navigating tight spaces much easier and safer.

Final Thoughts: Are Crownline Boats Worth It?

So, are Crownline boats any good? Absolutely. Their superior construction ensures durability and longevity, while the F.A.S.T. Tab hull design delivers impressive performance, handling, and fuel efficiency. Whether you’re looking for a smooth ride across rough waters or exceptional control during watersports, Crownline boats offer a premium experience that’s hard to beat.

As an official Crownline dealer in Ontario, Canada, we invite you to visit our dealership to explore our inventory and find the perfect boat for your needs. Crownline boats may be heavier, but their combination of craftsmanship, intelligent design, and high performance make them a top choice for those in the market for a high-end bowrider, deck boat or runabout.