Bayliner 285 Cruiser Boat Test Notes
Detailed test notes from our video boat review of Bayliner's 285.
August 29, 2011
Watch the Boats.com Bayliner 285 Video Boat Review

Reviewing the Bayliner 285
Overview
A single-engine cruiser with sleeping quarters for six passengers.
Concept

- Create the roomiest cruiser of its size, with the widest beam in its class.
- Use extensive windows and ports to create an open feel belowdecks.
- Use a single powerplant to reduce cost.
Construction
- Fiberglass hull with Armorflex gelcoat and a Hydropel vinylester skin coat.
- Full-length fiberglass box-grid foam-filled stringers.
Performance
- Slow out of the hole by modern standards, but acceptable cruising and top-end speeds.
- Excellent economy; you have to really push it to break a 20-gph fuel burn.
Handling
- Handling can be tough with a single-screw boat of this size; luckily you can order it with an optional bow thruster.
Features


- Fully-enclosed, walk-in midcabin provides more privacy than expected on a boat of this size.
- Engine access is easy, 360-degrees.
- Helm bolster is extremely comfortable.