There's no doubt, even from a distance, the 33 XO is a Regal. The large hull-side windows beneath an arcing beltline are a dead giveaway. It's not until your gaze reach-es the transom that you realize this isn't your average Regal express cruiser. Which is good, because you won't find the 33 XO listed under 'Express Cruisers' on the Regal website. You need to look under the 'Outboards' section to find the listing for the 33 XO.

That's right. Aft of the innovative rear lounge hangs a pair of 300HP Yamaha four-stroke outboards. At first glance, they look too small to efficiently power this 33-foot long, 11,000-pound cruiser, but don't let that fool you. Those 4.2L V-6 outboards have this boat knocking on the door of 50mph at full throttle, and cruising comfortably in the high 30's.

Regal made great use of the extra space in the 33 XO.

The rear lounger still serves as a hatch cover, allowing access to a cavernous below deck storage and equipment area that houses most of the mechanical components, including the 7.5Kw generator, starting and house batteries, filters, pumps and holding tanks, all easily accessible.

The lounge itself is a great feature. It's electrically adjustable forward or aft with 11 inches of travel. Sliding it forward allows for a little extra room on the swim platform, Regal has done a great job of having the platform wrap around the engines, making it reasonably spacious. Sliding the lounger aft adds almost a foot of entertaining space in the main cockpit. The backrest is adjustable for fore or aft seating arrangements, and also folds flat for a spacious sun pad.

Speaking of folding, the Regal 33 XO is equipped with the company's PowerTower. The forward-leaning arch can be lowered at the push of a button to reduce the boats air draft, allowing it to slip under lower bridges. The tower can also be partially lowered to allow the available shade to fully cover the cockpit.

Other standout features in the cockpit include the retractable 22-inch LCD television and the handy carry-on cooler located under the companion seat. The helm is fully equipped with a 12-inch multifunction display and a wide flip-up seat. The toggle for the bow thruster is within easy reach.

In the main cabin, Regal's signature hull-side windows let in plenty of natural light. There's a fixed V-berth measuring just four-feet long but remove the cushions from the bench seat in front and press a switch, the seat back pivots up 90 degrees to add an extra two feet to the bed, making a comfort-able sleeping area.

The aft cabin also features a fixed berth. It's a spacious and easily accessible king-sized bed, measuring six feet wide by six-foot four inches long. Between the two berths are the galley and seating area. The pedestal table from the cockpit is also used to create the dining table in the cabin. The galley has all the features you need to prepare meals on the water with a fridge, microwave, 2-burner stove and stainless-steel sink.

Regal has done a fine job of maximizing the space in this 33-foot cruiser. A feat assisted by the relocation of the power units to the transom. As outboard engines continue to become more powerful, and more popular, builders like Regal can continue to leverage the extra space with more innovate layouts. The 33 XO is an ideal boat for a cruising couple or small family.

By Steve Sansford