The brochure says it’s a sport cruiser with the attitude of a runabout. After testing the GS 249, we agree.
First, the cruiser part, because that’s what we liked best. The forward cabin had nearly six feet of headroom at the main hatch. In a 24-footer? Yep, nearly six feet. The main berth was roomy enough for a couple. And two kids would think the mid-cabin was way cool — even if they were 6 feet tall.
Our test boat had a full galley with a one-burner stove, microwave and (get this) a fridge — not an icebox. Shore power hookups were handy from the dock, and the power panels aboard were easily accessed below. A flushing head with shower and sink makes this a pretty handy live-aboard for weekenders.
A screened main hatch and portholes provided plenty of fresh air and light. At the marina, the Glastron GS 249 is an adventure machine. Parked in the side yard, maybe your mother-in-law would prefer it to your bedroom.
Often, weekend-type cruisers are sluggish, top-heavy and slow in turns. Not the Glastron 249 with the 5.7L Volvo outdrive. There’s plenty of power to pull screams of delight from tubing teenagers and enough wake to send a kneeboarder into orbit.
Cockpit seating was ample for entertaining at least four adults on a midnight cruise. A step-through windshield allows easy access to the bow for tending the anchor or catching a tan. There is also a generous gunnel walkway with stainless-steel grab rails. A trailer makes it handy to store at home and launch wherever you choose.
DETAILS
Length Overall: 24′ 10”
Beam: 8′ 6”
Test Boat Weight: 4,437 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 56 gal.
Load Capacity: 1,475 lb.
Seating Capacity: 10
Test Engine: Volvo 5.7L GS
Test Prop: Aluminum 15” x 17”
MSRP on Test Boat: $36,408
PERFORMANCE
Top Speed @ RPM: 43.5 mph @ 4,800 rpm
Speed @ 3/4 Throttle: 32.5 @ 3,600 rpm
Acceleration to 30 MPH: 9.5 sec.
Noise @ 30 MPH: 81 db
Noise @ Idle: 56 db
NICE TOUCHES
1. A flushing head is key in a weekend cruiser; Glastron didn’t settle for a portable head on this one.
2. Faria instrumentation on the nicely arranged helm puts the captain in complete control and comfort.
3. Translucent main cabin hatch allows light to enter but not prying eyes.
4. A bow pulpit with roller and anchor locker are a must on cruising boats, and this one had them.
5. Clarion CD came with four speakers and a remote control panel at the helm.
6. The walk-through transom is nice for easy boarding from the dock.
Glastron Boats; Little Falls, MN; 320-632-8395; www.glastron.com
