Monterey 378SE

Ever feel like you’re being pulled in opposite directions while looking at new boats?

Day boats appeal with their modern styling, upscale amenities and innovative features, but many lack overnight accommodations, making them unsuitable for cruising. Some cruisers, on the other hand, offer comfortable accommodations but come up short in areas like bow seating, cockpit amenities or outdoor deck space, so outdoor entertaining may be standing room only. Enter Monterey’s new 378SE, a comfortable day cruiser that delivers it all in a single, elegant package.

Evidence of this boat’s dual personality starts at the transom, where a large seat with an adjustable back cushion offers forward- or aft-facing comfort and speaks to the boat’s playful side. The seat can also be set flat to create an enormous sunpad. The transom seat continues forward up the port side. To starboard, a retractable seat folds out of the gunnel to create a perfect, private spot for conversation. The adjacent bar behind the captain’s seat accommodates a removable grill, and the passenger console offers a sink and a refrigerator below, ensuring that cold drinks are never out of reach. There’s also a pullout drawer in the seat base that houses a large, removable cooler.

Up front on the bow, full wraparound seating provides yet another roomy and private space to relax. Stereo speakers and fold-down armrests in the forward-facing seat backs make this a great spot to unwind or worship the sun.

The helm accommodates large, flush-mount multi-function displays. There is additional space for engine gauges for the MerCruiser or Volvo Penta power, and a number of push button controls for docking lights and other electronic accessories. The doublewide helm seat is electrically controlled and easily adjusted with the tilt wheel to suit captains of all heights.

While all of this seating makes for a terrific day boat, it doesn’t come at the expense of accommodations below. Step into the cabin to find a full salon complete with a queen bed and a 40-inch flat screen TV, while the head compartment features large windows that usher in plenty of natural light.

Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too? Monterey’s 378SE is a great day boat with plenty of comfort below when it’s time for an extended cruise.