Speeds measured with Stalker ProSports radar gun. Fuel consumption (gallons per hour) measured with Floscan digital fuel-flow meter on gas inboards, sterndrives, and outboards, TechMate electronic scan tool on gas EFI inboards, Caterpillar digital fuel-flow meter on diesel engines, or permanently installed fuel-monitoring equipment. Range is based on 90% of published fuel capacity. Sound levels determined using Radio Shack digital decibel meter on A scale. 68 dBA is the level of normal conversation.

Performance Chart

Test Conditions

Standard and Optional Equipment

Systems
CD Stereo
Head: Portable
Power Steering
Trailer
Exterior Features
Carpet: Cockpit
Outlet: 12-Volt Acc
Swim Ladder
Swim Platform
Canvas
Bimini Top
Cockpit Cover

= Standard = Optional

A Big Package

Bayliner combines a sporty look, full amenities, and affordability into twenty plus feet.

By Capt. John B. Wenz

I was told by Bayliner that this boat was first marketed in Europe, where apparently, it’s been a huge success. Sea conditions tend to be somewhat rougher on the other side of “the pond” than what most Americans typically go boating in. High freeboard, a closed bow, molded-in non-skid, and a self-bailing cockpit all lend themselves to a degree of safety and comfort not all that common in boats of this class. Personally I like her lines and there are a number of features that really stand out.

Cockpit and Seating

The full fiberglass cockpit liner allows you to hose the boat out for easy maintenance and the vinyl surfaces are all coated with KidClean protection. You get two seating choices; the standard back to back, fold-down sun-loungers or sport bucket seating. Removable cushions on the aft jump seats convert to a sun pad lounge at the transom. There’s plenty of storage space under the deck, under the seats, and in the full-length side bolsters.

Bow Features

Talking about space, one of the first things I noticed was the sliding cabin door; a great design feature usually seen on higher priced brands. It provides added cockpit space as well as real safe access to the foredeck through the windshield. Up there, I found a dedicated anchor locker with stainless steel roller. The anchor roller is a bit of overkill in my opinion. I do however, love the self-draining anchor well. It eliminates a rope locker forward of the cuddy, which helps the cabin stay dry and odor-free.

Inside the Cuddy

Down below, there’s a portable toilet that stores nicely under the deck. An opening hatch provides fresh air when needed. Put the filler cushions in place, and you’re ready to enjoy spending the night on board. Another cruising feature is the optional pressure water system with a sink in the cockpit and a transom shower. The sink appears to be a response to a market survey. Personally I’d prefer a glove compartment locker instead of the sink, but that’s only my opinion.

At the Controls

The dash area is molded in a contrasting gray gel-coat, which helps cut the glare on bright, sunny days. The engine instruments are clearly visible from the helm, and the AM/FM stereo comes with a plug-in jack and niche for your portable CD/MP3 or IPOD player. Rugged grab handles and cup holders are conveniently placed throughout the seating area. With the cushion removed the engine compartment cover serves nicely as a walkthrough when the boat is backed into a slip.

Canvas System

Another innovative feature is the unique canvas storage system. The standard convertible top is always ready to quickly deploy in the rain or bright sun. The frame slides on tracks which allow the whole thing to store neatly across the aft deck, hidden away until needed. I like this feature a lot because it takes very little time to set up. A bimini top is an important accessory, but when folded always, seems to actually be in the way. This is not the case on the 212.

The Smooth Ride System

Below the waterline, Bayliner’s design staff has incorporated their trademark “Smooth Ride System”. Without getting too technical, the hull characteristics offer a nice transition from skiboat hull to comfortable cruising boat. Bayliner continues to improve their design and construction techniques, allowing them to confidently offer a Limited Lifetime Structural Hull Warranty. The sharp looking blue topsides are colored gelcoat, not a sprayed on finish done after the fact.

In addition, the 212 Cuddy is NMMA certified and meets USCG Standards. Deck hardware is all good stuff; thru-bolted bow rails, a transom platform with swim ladder, a stainless steel ski tow ring, and a rugged wraparound windshield with safety glass and opening center section.

Performance and Ride

Out on the water, we tested this boat with a 5.0 liter MerCruiser Alpha One. With three adults on board, we were quite comfortable in the Saturday morning slop on the Intracoastal waterway. The boat jumped up on plane in under five seconds and handled with accuracy. Speeds we got were a little less than the manufacturer claimed, but we weren’t able to verify the installed prop. Our cruising speed, at 75% full throttle or 3000 rpm, was just below 30 mph with a fuel range of 100 miles. I like those numbers, but if you don’t there are several engine choices available which will suit the needs of anybody looking for a boat in this class.

Speaking of options, the boat comes pretty well-equipped, but additions include more canvas and carpeting, a table, and a larger swim platform to name a few. In addition, you can upgrade or eliminate the standard single-axle trailer.

To sum things up, the 212 Cuddy runabout offers a number of options and amenities, whether you’re a first-timer or your family is ready for the transition from solely watersports to a little weekend cruising.