30' Bayliner 3055 Ciera Sunbridge Express Cruiser

Bayliner's boast is that you get outstanding quality and heaps of space in an easy-to-own, affordable package. The company says that its dedication to the engine and sterndrive package from MerCruiser produces well-balanced boats with minimum bow rise, good handling and fuel efficiency, with a smooth, comfortable ride.

Climbing aboard is easy, thanks to a full-width molded boarding platform and a port-side transom door, complete with a spring-loaded latch. There's a handy grabrail across the transom just above the drop-down transom storage bin door.

There are two routes to the foredeck mooring lines: around the decks, with security in the form of a low bow rail, or through the opening center section of the windshield. There are molded footsteps beside the steering station to make this route easy.

The LX spec level includes a Lewmar windlass that can be operated from the deck or the dashboard, a deep chain locker with deadeye, bow roller, and a spotlight with remote control on the dash.

The cockpit lounge can seat five. There's a single navigator's seat to port behind the windscreen and the helm bench is big enough for two. A removable, centre-pedestal table slots into a socket in the centre of the U-shaped lounge area.

There's a recess under the lounge for a food and drinks cooler. On the port side of the cockpit is a recessed hot/cold handheld shower, a molded sink with a drinking water outlet, three drink holders and a grabrail. Under the sink is a locker that hides the battery switches and a shore power lead.

There's more cockpit storage space under the navigator's seat.

Engine access, via a huge floor hatch in the cockpit, is very good.

The steering station is very American in appearance, with mock walnut dash panels and chrome-rimmed gauges. The wheel and the helm seat are adjustable.

A blank panel below the dash has ample space for display electronics.

The companionway features a bi-fold door with sliding hatch.

The space below decks is amazing. There is ample head room, a dinette, and two double beds. The aft cabin is under the steering station and has a small cockpit window for light and ventilation. If not required for adults it makes a great play area for kids. There are privacy curtains for both sleeping spots. The aft play area doubles as an access room to the under-head plumbing.

The galley is well-equipped, with a Tappan microwave, a Kenyon two burner electric/Alcohol stove, and a Norcold under counter dual voltage refrigerator.

The easily-cleaned head has a manual toilet, a hand-held hot/cold shower with wall bracket, a sink, mirror, and a 120V outlet.