Cruisers inc. Barnegat now in the online auction. everyone can bid until 20 April 2026.
Cruisers Inc. Barnegat – classic wooden speed cruiser
Anyone looking for a characterful classic with a distinctly American look will quickly end up with this 1967 Cruisers Inc. Barnegat. This is a vintage wooden powerboat built in West Bend, Wisconsin (USA) and later brought to the Netherlands. With an overall length of approx. 8.00 metres and a beam of 3.00 metres, she has a tough, wide stance on the water—typical of an era when style and performance went hand in hand. This classic cruiser has been used on inland waters for day trips and boating fun, which is reflected in the practical equipment and the focus on outdoor living on board.
Cruisers Inc. Barnegat now in the online auction. Anyone can bid up to and including 20 April 2026.
Timeless wooden construction and classic lines
The hull and superstructure are made of wood, giving this Cruisers Inc. Barnegat that warm, distinctive appearance you rarely find on modern GRP boats. Wood requires attention and an owner who understands the material, but it also delivers a unique experience: the look, the sound and the feel of a true vintage powerboat. The boat has recently been out of the water for maintenance and was treated with antifouling in 2024. In addition, the vessel was stripped back two years ago and repainted and revarnished, resulting in a neat, well-presented appearance that really highlights the classic lines.
Boating experience: stable, wide and with a sporty edge
On the water, this Barnegat is known as a boat that sits stably. The combination of beam and weight (approx. 2,000 kg) gives a solid impression when stepping aboard, manoeuvring and cruising on inland waters. Steering is via a wheel from an outside helm position, which suits the open character of this type of cruiser: you cruise “in†the surroundings, with direct contact with wind and water. The twin rudders contribute to control and good tracking, especially when running on two engines and keeping the boat nicely balanced.
Performance and propulsion: two 150 hp MerCruisers
One of the major advantages of this classic speed cruiser is the propulsion. The boat is fitted with two MerCruiser petrol engines (year of build 1967), each producing 150 hp with six cylinders and electric start. Together, this provides a powerful set-up that matches the “wolf in sheep’s clothing†character: a friendly vintage look with serious performance. The stated top speed is around 65 km/h, making this wooden cruiser interesting for enthusiasts who don’t just want to cruise quietly, but also like to make good speed.
The engines have had a major service; the invoice is available for inspection and wear parts have been replaced. For monitoring, standard gauges are present such as an oil pressure gauge, temperature gauge and tachometer. The fuel tank has a capacity of approx. 200 litres, suitable for day trips and sporty use. One known point of attention: the fuel gauge does not indicate beyond half a tank—something to keep in mind when planning longer trips.
Deck equipment: comfort for day trips
This Cruisers Inc. Barnegat is set up for relaxed days on the water. Outside you will find, among other things, a bimini for shade, exterior cushions for seating comfort and a swim ladder for easy reboarding after swimming. Fenders and lines are also included, as well as cover(s) for protection in the marina. For safety and practical use, an electric bilge pump is on board. Anchoring is possible with an anchor on a line; there is no anchor winch, which fits the simple, classic character of the vessel.
Electrical system and batteries
The electrical system is straightforward, with alternator and voltmeter. There are three batteries on board: one per engine and one for the other consumers. These batteries have been renewed recently, which is beneficial for reliable starting and the use of onboard electrics during a day on the water.
Layout and use: pure daycruiser with classic character
With an interior headroom of approx. 0.80 metres, this vessel is primarily a daycruiser: made for outdoor living, cruising and enjoying the classic design. There is no toilet or heating, underlining the focus on day use. This makes the boat particularly suitable for enthusiasts of vintage speedboats, classic wooden powerboats and American cruisers who mainly want to cruise inland waters, moor up at a waterside terrace or a nice anchorage, and occasionally accelerate in a sporty way.
Known points of attention and handling characteristics
A vessel from 1967 comes with a certain “user manualâ€, and this is stated honestly. In addition to the fuel gauge that does not read beyond half, the trim tabs have been fixed in place. This means you optimise running attitude and trim mainly through loading, speed and engine management. For many classic-boat enthusiasts, that is part of the charm: you cruise consciously and get to know the boat.
This Cruisers Inc. Barnegat combines classic American style, wooden appeal and twin-engine performance into a striking presence. For buyers looking for an authentic vintage cruiser with speed, character and a true 1960s experience, this is a powerboat you need to see—and take out on the water.
