Do we live in the age of the so-called express cruiser? While the less traditional, hybrid boat family, which blends the sportiness of a runabout with accommodations for overnighting, isn’t particularly new, it does seem increasingly in demand. In many ways, it makes sense. Why not have all you need for a week of island hopping and the zip needed for all your boating kicks? Four Winns has been hitting this boating segment hard with the many models of their Vista series, including the new Vista 255.
True to the Four Winns philosophy, no two Vista 255s will likely be entirely the same due to the many customization options: inboard vs. outboard motors, several hull and interior colors, extended swim platform or not, underwater light or none, fiberglass arch or not, bow thruster or not, etc. Two packages are offered. The Convenience Package includes a camper canvas, snap-in carpet, and sun pads for the deck. The Dockside Power Package includes an electric cooking plate in the cockpit, dockside power with battery charger, a microwave, cabin refrigerator, and a water heater for a transom shower. Ultimately, you’ll tailor your Vista 255 to meet your individual boating goals.
All Vista 255 models have the same fundamental layout: an open transom and an open cockpit with plenty of padded seating and entertaining space. There’s also an integrated day galley on-deck that includes a sink. You can also step up past the helm and through the windshield to the open foredeck. Below, there’s quite a bit of space for a boat that’s just a hair over 25 feet with an enclosed head to starboard and the galley to port. Padded seating around a table converts to a double berth for those weekend getaways.
Versatility and customization remain key points of the Four Winns Vista models, and the 255 fits right in. You really do get a lot of boat in a relatively small package. For more information, you can contact local dealer Marine Servicenter. A model at their docks is currently priced at $139,564.