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Ultimate Guide: Cuddy Cabin Boats

Looking for an all-purpose vessel that is easy to tow and store? A cuddy cabin boat from boats for sale can be the perfect choice for you.

By Premier WatersportsPublished about a year ago 5 min read
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A cuddy cabin boat is a type of small pleasure craft typically features a small cabin located at the bow and an open cockpit at the stern. Cuddy cabin boats can be used for various activities, including fishing, swimming, and cruising. While they are not as large or luxurious as some other types of pleasure craft, cuddy cabin boats offer a unique combination of features that make them an excellent choice for many boaters. Boat dealers typically sell cuddy cabin boats in various sizes and price ranges to suit the needs of different customers.

The following is a guide to cuddy cabin boats, their features, and their benefits:

What is a Cuddy Cabin Boat?

A Cuddy Cabin is the perfect size for a small family, measuring 18-25 feet long. It's great for overnight stays or fishing trips. The "cuddy" is a small, below-deck enclosure that typically has a V-berth (a bed in the shape of a V along the bow), a porta potty (the head or toilette), and possibly a freshwater sink.

This seemed the perfect size for us, and we started looking at used boats for sale. You can find some great deals this way, especially on older models. Just be sure to have the boat surveyed by a professional before making your purchase.

What Type of Accommodations is Available for Sleeping?

Usually, Cuddy Cabins have a V-shaped area for sleeping and storing belongings that are situated along the inside edges of the bow. Two berths will be on each side of the ship, with a porta potty often directly between them.

A porta potty can increase its sleeping or storage area by placing a bow-filler cushion.

There are usually storage compartments under the V-berth cushions where you can put your gear and sleeping essentials.

Do Cuddy Cabins Have a Toilet?

A cuddy cabin won't usually have a toilet but don't expect anything too grand if it does.

Because Cuddy Cabins are the perfect mix between a deck boat and a full-cabin cruiser, everything is trimmed down to be the "Jack-of-all-trades" to satisfy everyone's unique demands.

Most will find the lack of a toilet not to be an issue, especially since the space is so limited inside the cabin. If you are someone who wants to spend time on the water and only uses the cabin to sleep or for storage, then you probably won't even notice.

However, if you like to spend a lot of time in the cabin or use it as your main living quarters while on the water, you might want to consider another type of boat with a toilet.

Do Cuddy Cabin Boats Have a Galley?

Most cuddy models usually lack features except a freshwater sink.

Aside from the fact that Cabin Cruisers and other improved versions come with reduced storage space, a mini-fridge, microwave, cabinets, alcohol burner, and counter area are all excluded. Each Cuddy and cruiser is like its own poker hand, making it more difficult to obtain one with all the features. In general, the larger the boat, the more of these extras you'll find.

Does a Cuddy Cabins Have Air Conditioning?

Almost all cuddy cabin models don't come with air conditioning installed. Air conditioning is often a feature that vessel owners only find in more luxurious models, such as cabin cruisers. However, a less expensive and just-as-effective solution to boat cooling is using a 12-volt DC fan connected to the battery.

Even without air conditioning, merely having an enclosed and shaded cuddy provides a microclimate that helps to minimize the strain of a hot day - even if it isn't used.

What Can a Cuddy Cabin be Used For?

A cuddy cabin boat is an all-purpose vessel that can be used for various activities. Here are some of the prevalent uses for cuddy cabin boats:

Fishing: Cuddy cabin boats are perfect for fishing because they provide a comfortable place to store your gear and take a break from the sun. Many cuddy cabin boats also have fishing features like live wells and rod holders.

Water Sports: Cuddy cabin boats are also great for tow sports like wakeboarding, tubing, and skiing. Most cuddy cabin boats have enough power to pull a skier or rider out of the water, and many models even come with built-in ballast systems to help create bigger waves.

Cruising: Cuddy cabin boats are also great for cruising because they provide a comfortable place to relax and take in the scenery. Many cuddy cabin boats have features like stereos, coolers, and Bimini tops, making them perfect for cruising around with friends.

Advantages of a Cuddy Cabin

  • Cuddy cabins come in various sizes, but most are small enough to tow easily between outings. You don't usually need to rent a slip at one lake for the entire year.
  • Because Cuddy's have fewer features than Cabin Cruisers, there are fewer opportunities for something to malfunction.
  • Depending on your Cuddy size, you'll need a single or double-axle trailer--you likely won't need a triple axle. For instance, 18-21' cuddies can use a single axle, while 22-25' cuddies require a double axle. If your Cuddy is larger than that, you should consider investing in a triple axle.
  • If you don't intend to sleep in your Cuddy, the cabin itself is a great storage spot for all of your gear to keep it dry and out of the elements.

Disadvantages of a Cuddy Cabin

  • Although cuddy cabins come in various sizes, they are typically much smaller than other types of boats, like cabin cruisers. This means there is less space inside the cabin for beds, couches, and tables.
  • Cuddy cabins also usually have less storage space than other types of boats. This can be a problem if you desire to bring a lot of gear for fishing, watersports, or cruising.
  • Because cuddy cabins are smaller than other types of boats, they typically don't have as much power. This means they might be unable to tow as much weight or provide as much power for watersports.
  • Cuddy cabins also typically don't have as many features as other types of boats. This means that you might have to give up some features you want to get the size and power you need.

Read here to know Boat Buyers Guide to Choose Between Boat Dealers and Boat Brokers.

In Conclusion

A cuddy cabin boat is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants an all-purpose vessel that is easy to tow and store. Cuddy cabin boats are perfect for fishing, watersports, and cruising, and they come in various sizes to suit any need. However, cuddy cabin boats typically have less storage space and fewer features than other types of boats. Boat dealers usually have a wide selection of both new and used cuddy cabin boats to choose from. So take your time, research, and find the perfect cuddy cabin boat.

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About the Creator

Premier Watersports

Premier Watersports is Tennessee’s dealer for Supra Wakeboard Boats, Moomba Boats, Yamaha Sport Boats, Starcraft Boats and Sylvan Pontoons, with locations in Knoxville and Nashville.

Visit: https://premierwatersports.net/

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