There are certain moments in life when you realize that you’ve made it. Maybe it’s when you finally get that big promotion to senior executive. Or maybe it’s when you buy that first big five bedroom house in the neighborhood you only dreamed about when you were younger. Or maybe it’s when you pull up to your new home in that brand new Corvette ZO6, and don’t have the slightest twinge of buyer’s remorse. All of these things are common indicators to oneself, and others, that you have in fact, arrived. But above all else, there is one generally accepted way to really show that you’re new status is not just mere posturing — and that is with a yacht, and the Crownline 350 SY just might just be the best of the bunch.
Crownline makes no bones about it with the 350 SY — it’s not cheap. With nationally advertised price starting at $299,995, it may seem expensive, but when you really get into what you are buying with that money it actually is a very good deal. This 36’ cruiser has a beam of 143”, a dry weight of 16,300 pounds, a draft of 31” and a fuel capacity of 193 gallons. This is a boat meant to be taken out for long periods and enjoyed by many.
The fit and finish of the 350 SY is nothing short of remarkable. The plush seating is not just for the captain, but there is also plenty of extra passenger space in the cockpit along with a removable table that doesn’t feel cheap like it can in so many lesser boats. Go down into the galley and the attention to detail is even more underlined. The cabinetry is rich solid wood that simply shines. The ceramic top stove is complimented by a stainless steel refrigerator, microwave and sink. Not only that but the backsplash and counters are custom made, and oh you need to use the head? Well, you’re in luck by the seat is made of teak and the solid surface countertops go nicely with the adjustable shower head and electric flush.
Back up on the main deck, there are features and amenities commensurate with what you’d expect and want in a vessel of this caliber. An air conditioner and heater are standard issue, as is the aluminum hard top, electric cockpit grill, LED lighting, generator, and auto fire extinguishing system.
In terms of electronics there is a Raymarine Axiom 9 with a 9” touchscreen that provides engine information and sonar. There is also a Shorepower 50’ cord to help keep things fun even when not out on the water, as well as a six speaker Kicker Performance stereo that also can be controlled via a remote at the transom. But if music to you is listening to the sound of water rushing by, then the 3509 SY will provide in spades. Standard power comes from Twin Mercruiser 6.2-liter Mag Bravo III w/DTS Controls that make a serious 600-horsepower. There are quite a few optional engines available with a max horsepower at a staggering 860 ponies.
Speaking of options, obviously with a boat of this level, there are plenty of ways to customize it. There are several different flooring options aside from the standard Driftwood Woven Mat. You can have more of that teak look, or something called Moonrock, or even carpet — all of which are of the snap in variety. You can also upgrade to their Black Diamond Racing Wheel, and choose from a myriad of interior trim upgrades.
But while the Crownline 350 SY offers up a host of features and lavish accoutrements, it is more than the sum of its parts. The real achievement of this boat is how effortlessly all of those pieces flow together. When you are on it, you can almost feel your social status being ratcheted up a few notches — just by the way you feel about yourself being on this floating palace. Sure, it may cost 300 grand, but once you reach that point in life where you’ve earned yourself a reward, the Crownline 350 SY will make sure that you know that money, though hard earned, has been well spent, and you will be reminded of it each and every time you set foot on this wonderful prize.
