We boarded the 2855 Ciera Sunbridge in a fall chill, and with the standard curtains it morphed the open cockpit into a cocoon. Our test wouldn’t be a short joy ride with nasty turns and brutal hole shots, though we couldn’t resist those, so we loaded the cockpit cooler with refreshments for a day afloat.
The cockpit has comfy room for six, but an aft folding transom seat and stowable cocktail table welcome more. The helm’s dual seat with flip-up bolster gives the captain a commanding view — and a cozy spot for the mate. The instrument panel is logical, with plenty of room to install navigation equipment, if trips to Bimini or Catalina are on the itinerary. We especially like the sun-lounge arrangement of the passenger seating.
On calm inside passages, the single MerCruiser provides a good combination of power, economy and range. In tight quarters, the Ciera is predictable and willing to make new boaters look like pros. We experienced 3- to 5-foot following rollers and the Ciera shouldered them cleanly with minimal effort on the captain’s part. We’d take this rig to the Bahamas with all confidence.
What we found below is equally impressive. Full stand-up headroom and a main salon with sleeping berth is sprawling for a couple. Add the midcabin with the full stand-up entry hatch and we see a hundred great weekends with friends on our boating horizon.
The galley has an electric/alcohol stove, microwave and fridge. The head is all molded and the sink spigot doubles as a showerhead.
We saw the Bayliner 2855 Ciera under construction, spoke to the craftsmen and engineers, and got very enthused about the possibility of owning this adventure machine. It’s even more enticing when coupled with the great price and the incredible interest rates offered on Bayliners this year.
Nice Touches
1. Maximum headroom in cabin
2. Dashboard ready to accept your choice of navigation equipment
3. 12V/120V refrigerator for use dockside or at sea
4. Advantage Pac option includes transom shower
