#CopperTides: 24’ Cozy Cabin Cruiser w/ Bathroom, Bedroom & A/C-Clearwater/Tampa review
Yacht · 24 ft (7 m) · Clearwater
expert score
Key specs
- Builder
- Glastron
- Model
- GS 249
- Length
- 24 ft (7 m)
- Guests
- 6
Verdict
A compact express cruiser with a practical layout and solid all-around use, the 2004 Glastron GS 249 offers better day-boating flexibility than many boats its size. It is best suited to couples or small families who want a usable cabin and enclosed head, while accepting modest space and older-boat upkeep.
Pros
- +Deep-V fiberglass hull with runabout-like handling
- +Cabin includes enclosed head and usable overnight space
- +Compact size makes docking and trailering easier than larger cruisers
- +Good versatility for day trips and short weekends
Cons
- −Limited cabin volume compared with larger 24–26 ft cruisers
- −Performance depends heavily on engine package and age
- −Older examples may need attention to upholstery, systems, and sterndrive service
- −Not ideal for larger crews or extended cruising
The Glastron GS 249 is a 24-foot-class express cruiser built around a deep-V fiberglass hull and a compact cabin layout. Public listings describe it as a small cruiser that tries to combine the feel of a runabout with basic overnight amenities, including a galley, dinette, and enclosed head. On paper and in market listings, it sits in the practical midrange rather than the luxury end of the segment.
On the water, the GS 249 is generally associated with responsive handling and decent speed for its class, especially with common Volvo Penta or MerCruiser sterndrive packages. That makes it appealing for coastal cruising, lakes, and sheltered waters, but performance will vary a lot by engine condition, prop setup, and service history. Like many boats of this age, maintenance matters more than the original specification.
Comfort is functional rather than spacious. The cabin is suitable for short stays and offers real utility with a head and sleeping space, but it is still a compact 24-footer, so headroom, storage, and social space are limited. For buyers, value is strongest when the boat has been well maintained and thoughtfully updated; otherwise, age-related wear can quickly outweigh the benefit of a lower purchase price.
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