Stingray Boats introduces a 21-foot cuddy cruiser for 2008 that combines form, function and performance. A small luxury cruiser built on a performance hull, the 205CX is a boat the whole family can appreciate.
As we approached the 205CX for the first time, we admired its smooth, rounded cruiser-style lines, yet there was something of a rugged saltwater fishing boat that intrigued us: fixed stainless steel cleats and a cabin door styled more like one you’d see on a sportfishing boat than that of a cruiser. The engine compartment was neatly rigged, and we noticed a 2-inch fuel-fill for eliminating shut-offs and overflows when fueling.
Removing the center cushions from the engine cover and the aft bench seating creates a non-slip walkway all the way from the swimstep to the cockpit. There you’ll find recessed stainless cupholders in the gunwales, stylish swiveling bucket seats with cargo netting on the backs and a stainless footrest for the captain that swings and stows against the cabin bulkhead when not in use.
The dash features seven gauges and an AC adapter, and the windshield has stainless steel supports and lockout vents on both sides. All of the seats are treated with Pre-fixx vinyl coating to protect them against stains. The cuddy doors are double-hinged and you can see in through the tinted Lexan panels.
Inside there are vents on both sides and a pair of large hatches overhead. A Thetford head is concealed beneath the center, aft cushion of the V-berth fastened to a hinged King Starboard lid. Housed beneath the flip-up cushion to starboard is a tackle box, and to port, a sink. At the bow is a vanity mirror and at the bulkhead are opposed seats with gunwale storage behind the backrests.
Powered to the max with a 225 hp Volvo Penta 4.3 GXi, the 205CX reached a top speed of 54.7 mph. Cornering was dry, smooth and controlled. With test power, the 205CX retails for just $30,065. That’s quality and performance at a very affordable price.

Go Boating Test Team
January 2008