Spacious 35' Sea Ray SLX Motor Yacht Charter in Chicago review
Yacht · 35 ft (11 m) · Chicago
expert score
Key specs
- Builder
- Sea Ray
- Model
- SLX 350
- Length
- 35 ft (11 m)
- Guests
- 13
Verdict
A large, well-finished day yacht with strong cockpit social space, confident twin-engine performance, and easy docking aids. Best for entertaining and short-to-medium cruising rather than overnighting, and its premium build means value depends heavily on condition and charter setup.
Pros
- +Spacious bowrider layout with deep seating and open entertaining areas
- +Twin-engine sterndrive setup with joystick control improves docking and low-speed handling
- +High-quality finishes and a large beam for a 35-foot boat
- +Good fuel capacity for a day yacht, with respectable cruising range
Cons
- −Not a true cabin cruiser; overnight livability is limited
- −Premium ownership and charter costs compared with simpler runabouts
- −Heavy hull and large footprint can feel substantial in tight marinas
- −Comfort depends on options and maintenance, especially for HVAC and seating
The Sea Ray SLX 350 is a premium large bowrider that emphasizes social space and finish quality over pure cruising accommodation. Its 35-foot class length, wide beam, and open cockpit layout make it feel more like a small day yacht than a conventional runabout, with generous seating and a well-integrated helm area.
On the water, the twin MerCruiser sterndrive package gives the boat solid acceleration and a confident top-end character, while joystick piloting helps compensate for its size in close quarters. The hull’s 21-degree deadrise suggests a balanced ride for a sporty family day boat, though it is still a large, relatively heavy platform that benefits from careful trim and experienced throttle use.
Comfort is one of its strongest points. The SLX 350 is built for entertaining, with plenty of social seating, a usable head compartment, and on some layouts an air-conditioned hideaway or berth-style space for short breaks. It is not a genuine multi-cabin cruiser, so its livability is best judged as high-end day use rather than overnight passagemaking.
Value is mixed. The model delivers strong brand appeal, refined finishes, and easy handling features, but it sits firmly in the premium segment. For buyers or charter guests who want a stylish, spacious entertaining boat, it makes sense; for those prioritizing overnight capability or lower operating cost, there are more efficient choices.
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