Ranger R23 Versus Cutwater C24

[cruz-in]

I really like the look/functionality of the Ranger Tugs (and in all liklihood will purchase a R21EC).

However, when looking at the line, I find the new R23 sticks out from the rest. To my eye, the R23 looks like a 50/50 cross between a Cutwater and a Ranger Tug. To me it looks awkward (for lack of a better word), especially the outboard version.

As a trawler/tug fan I was somewhat surprised at my liking the look/functionality of the C24, Being it costs roughly the same as the R23, if I were in the market for that size, I would sure givve the C24 a close looking over. For a power cruiser, I fthink it hits a sweet spot.

Interested in you all's thoughts on the looks/fuctionality comparison of the two.

Thanks

 

[jld]

I was on the Cutwater 24 at a boat show a couple of months ago, and really liked it. I found it to be a very user friendly layout. The interior of the R23 is basically the same at that of the Cutwater 24.

Personally, I love Ranger's newer hull design on their tugs. The R23 is no exception to that. My preference in engine choice for the R23 would be the 200 Yamaha outboard. I like the ease in servicing, and when the time comes, repowering with the outboard (not to mention the large storage locker in the cockpit freed up with the outboard.) I also like the fact that it hangs on a bracket. I'm kinda baffled, however, why they decided to hang a 300 Yamaha outboard on the Cutwater? Videos of sea trails of the R23 with the 200 Yamaha outboard show top speeds of 40 mph.

One interesting comparison of the C24 and the R23 is that the C24 starts at $100,000 (with a 240 hp gas stearndrive) while the R23 starts at $94,000 (with the 200 hp outboard). If one wanted an outboard on the C24 its a $10,000 option for the 300 hp outboard.

Jim

 

[Champ]

I was on the Cutwater 24 at a boat show a couple of months ago, and really liked it. I found it to be a very user friendly layout. The interior of the R23 is basically the same at that of the Cutwater 24.

Personally, I love Ranger's newer hull design on their tugs. The R23 is no exception to that. My preference in engine choice for the R23 would be the 200 Yamaha outboard. I like the ease in servicing, and when the time comes, repowering with the outboard (not to mention the large storage locker in the cockpit freed up with the outboard.) I also like the fact that it hangs on a bracket. I'm kinda baffled, however, why they decided to hang a 300 Yamaha outboard on the Cutwater? Videos of sea trails of the R23 with the 200 Yamaha outboard show top speeds of 40 mph.

One interesting comparison of the C24 and the R23 is that the C24 starts at $100,000 (with a 240 hp gas stearndrive) while the R23 starts at $94,000 (with the 200 hp outboard). If one wanted an outboard on the C24 its a $10,000 option for the 300 hp outboard.

Jim

Jim, Where can I find those videos of the R23 sea trial? Thanks

 

[Champ]

As far as looks go, the Cutwater looks like 90% of the boats out there. Not good or bad but status quo. The ranger is unique.

 

[rckhorwitz]

I have been in both boats several times. While the interiors are very similar, the Cutwater performs much better in my mind. It's hull design handles chop better; also with the larger 300HP motor, it is much faster with similar gas economy. The Cutwater can go 50 (if anyone is crazy enough to want to); but it cruises well at 27-30 knots (4000 RPM) with good gas mileage (~2.6MPG). Finally, the cockpit is brighter and it has some better amenities (e.g., freshwater outdoor shower).
On the other hand, the Ranger has a lot of character, is cheaper, and fully adequate.
I now have a Cutwater 24 and absolutely love the boat. I have had a SeaRay 26, several Grady White's, and a Boston Whaler. This is my favorite!