Two new American yachts for South Florida
Cruisers Yachts plans to unveil its 45 VTR and 45 VTR EC at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show between 28 October and 1 November 2026. The two roughly 14-metre motorboats expand the US builder's VTR line, pairing outboard propulsion with distinct levels of weather protection.
These will be world show premieres, according to the announced programme, rather than a return appearance of previously displayed models. Buyers considering a boat for Florida, the Bahamas or other coastal waters can compare the trade-offs directly during the exhibition.
The 45 VTR focuses on outdoor gatherings
The open 45 VTR is organised around a single-level cockpit with a large hardtop sheltering the main helm area. Reversible seats and movable tables let passengers change the space from dining to relaxation without committing to a fixed furniture arrangement.
At the stern, U-shaped seating converts into a sunpad, while a folding port-side bulwark extends the usable deck beside the water. Such systems are appealing at anchor, but they must be operated according to the manufacturer's instructions and should be secured when necessary.
An enclosed version for less predictable weather
The 45 VTR EC introduces a fully enclosed, climate-controlled main-deck cabin, providing a different environment for longer journeys or cooler conditions. Three-panel sliding doors can open fore and aft, helping connect the protected interior with the remaining open deck.
The enclosed version adds a galley and integrated storage and is intended to make the boat more useful beyond fair-weather day trips. Passengers who regularly travel during shoulder seasons may place more value on shelter than those who spend almost all their time in warm coastal waters.
Cabins for shorter journeys
Both models offer accommodation for two guests in one cabin as standard, while optional arrangements expand this to four berths across two cabins. The basic plan includes a guest bathroom, with a second available as an option.
Those choices put the design in weekend cruiser territory, though the maximum day-trip guest count should not be confused with overnight accommodation. Owners should check standing room, privacy and storage before assuming four people can comfortably spend extended periods aboard.
Triple Mercury propulsion options
Cruisers offers three 300-horsepower Mercury Verado V8 outboards for a combined 900 horsepower, or triple 400-horsepower engines providing 1,200 horsepower. The published fuel capacity is 1,370 litres and full-load draft approximately 1.1 metres.
The manufacturer has not supplied final top-speed or cruising-range figures for both configurations. Prospective owners should therefore avoid treating engine power alone as a guarantee of speed, efficiency or ease of operation.
Different weight and operating implications
The open version's published dry weight is approximately 9,868 kilograms, compared with 10,414 kilograms for the enclosed EC. The enclosed structure and additional equipment can influence handling, fuel use and the required approach to docking.
Real operating weight will be higher once fuel, passengers, water and gear are aboard. A buyer should request performance data for the chosen engine and accommodation package, particularly when planning longer coastal passages.
Additional Cruisers models are expected
The 45 VTR models join the existing 38 VTR and 38 VTR EC in a wider brand presentation. Cruisers also intends to show larger yachts such as its 57 FLY and 50 FLY, providing an opportunity to compare outboard day cruising with bigger flybridge accommodation.
For an owner making the move from a smaller boat, that comparison may clarify whether a little more cabin space is worth the associated operating costs, or whether a simpler vessel offers the right style of leisure time.
A practical buyer's comparison
The main decision between VTR and EC is not simply aesthetic. The open model maximises exposure to the weather, while the enclosed yacht dedicates more of its footprint to protected space. Both need the same careful assessment of seating, engine access, electrical systems and deck safety.
The show allows visitors to assess layouts before sea trials are arranged. Buyers should ask for final build and delivery details, as launch specifications may evolve during the first production phase.
