Slickcraft Speedcruiser now in the online auction. everyone can bid until 18 May 2026.
Slickcraft Speedcruiser 9.00 metres (1984) – American sports cruiser with twin V8s and fixed propeller shafts
This 1984 Slickcraft Speedcruiser is a characterful American GRP motorboat, designed for those who enjoy sporty cruising with comfort on board. With an overall length of around 9.00 metres and a generous beam of approximately 3.35 metres, this type of speedcruiser offers notably ample space both in the cockpit and in the interior. The combination of a deep-V hull, fixed propeller shafts and two powerful petrol engines makes this an attractive choice for enthusiasts of a classic sports cruiser who want to travel briskly and steadily on inland waterways as well as on larger lakes and canals.
Slickcraft Speedcruiser now in the online auction. Anyone can bid up to and including 18 May 2026.
Hull, handling and appearance
The Slickcraft is built in GRP and features a deep-V hull that cuts through the water nicely at higher speeds and can provide more comfortable handling in waves than flatter hull forms. Thanks to its wide dimensions, the boat feels spacious, and that beam contributes to stability—further enhanced by the fixed-shaft drivetrain. This delivers a solid, “mechanically direct†boating experience that many watersports enthusiasts appreciate, especially when manoeuvring and maintaining a steady course. With a draft of around 0.80 metres and an air draft of about 2.35 metres, this motorboat is also well suited to a large part of the Dutch inland waterways, where bridge clearances and depths often determine the route.
Engines: twin Ford MerCruiser Marine V8 inboards
On board are two Ford MerCruiser Marine inboard engines, each rated at 233 hp in a V8 configuration. This twin-engine setup gives the Slickcraft its typical sports-cruiser character: quick acceleration, plenty of power on tap, and extra control when docking because you can steer precisely using the prop wash from two engines. Both engines are electrically started and, according to the information provided, are in working order. In 2024 both engines received major servicing and were checked over, which is reassuring for a buyer in terms of ready-to-use boating and planning the coming season.
On-board comfort: weekend trips with practical amenities
This speedcruiser is not only aimed at day trips, but is also suitable for a weekend away. Inside you’ll find a dinette and sleeping facilities with mattresses, allowing two people (and depending on the layout possibly more) to stay overnight on board. For time spent aboard, there is a cooker, refrigerator and freezer, making it easy to remain self-sufficient while underway. Hot-air heating extends the boating season and keeps the cabin comfortable even on cooler days.
The toilet is manual. It is also stated that the toilet discharge goes directly into open water; prospective buyers should take this into account when considering the intended cruising area and any modifications they may wish to make.
Cockpit and exterior equipment: sheltered seating and easy swimming access
Outside, the boat is equipped with a bimini and cockpit tent, allowing you to enclose the cockpit and sit sheltered in changeable weather. Exterior cushions increase comfort on longer cruising days and make the cockpit a pleasant place to relax. A swim ladder makes boarding after swimming or after stopping at a jetty practical and safe. Fenders and lines are included to make mooring easier, and there is an anchor with chain and line for breaks on calm water.
Navigation, electrics and safety
For basic navigation, a compass and log/speedometer are fitted. The electrical system includes 12V and 220V, with shore power connection, alternator and voltmeter. With two batteries, there is a usable base for onboard consumers while cruising and during short stays without shore power. In terms of safety, the cockpit is self-draining and a lifebuoy is present. In addition, there is an electric bilge pump, helping to manage water in the bilge.
Maintenance and points of attention
The boat was taken out of the water for maintenance in 2024, and antifouling was also applied in 2024. Osmosis has occurred; this has been repaired and treated. Many buyers will appreciate that this is explicitly mentioned, allowing you to focus on the treatment carried out and any documentation or inspection you may still wish to arrange. In 2022 the interior and exterior cushions were replaced and, according to the owner, the interior and exterior were reupholstered. A new toilet and tinted windows are also mentioned, contributing to a fresh look and improved comfort on board.
Anyone looking for a Slickcraft Speedcruiser with twin V8s, fixed propeller shafts, a spacious cockpit and amenities for weekend cruising will find this 9-metre American motorboat an interesting combination of performance, space and classic sports-cruiser style.
