1996 Carver 325 Aft Cabin

By: Mike Burns

Aft cabin yachts have long been a popular style of cruiser, and Carver Yachts have done very well over the years with several innovative models. Carver is also renowned for designing one of the smallest aft cabin models available on the market. The initial series of this model was built from 1983 to 1990. In 1991, the design was changed and the new series was launched as the 28 Aft cabin, which later evolved into the 300, 325, and 326 models. Confused yet? We recently checked out a 325 Aft Cabin, which was manufactured in 1996.

As yachts have evolved over the years, there have been some significant design changes. Many older aft cabin models would feature transom ladders, and boarding back aft could be a bit of a challenge. On newer models, such as this Carver 325, a set of moulded steps has been utilized, making it much easier to get aboard. Once up on the aft deck, you’ll find a small, yet functional, seating area with just enough room for a couple of chairs and a table.

Access to the bridge is via a small, three-step ladder amidships. The helm is mounted to starboard and there is enough room for a couple of passengers on a bench seat to port. The helm is laid out with the twin shifters and throttles flanking the steering wheel. A large compass and the gauges are centrally laid out on the dash, and there is plenty of room to flush, and surface mount additional electronics.

This model is built on a relatively beamy hull – 11 feet, 11 inches to be exact – which allowed Carver’s designers to create a vast interior volume. Wraparound cabin windows allow for lots of natural light and they almost give an illusion that the cabin is larger than it actually is. The main salon area is rather compact, but there is room for a small sofa that converts into a double berth. Also found in the main salon is the standard lower helm off to starboard.

Further forward and down a couple of steps, you’ll come to the galley and dinette area. Situated to port, the galley features a two-burner stovetop, under counter refrigerator, built-in microwave, and ample drawer and cupboard space above and below the countertop.

The dinette area is located right at the bow and there’s plenty of room to comfortably seat five people. When not in use, the area coverts to a large sleeping area complete with privacy curtain.

Off to starboard there is a large hanging locker; just aft of that there is a compact head, which features the usual amenities. There is no separate shower stall, but the head compartment is fibreglass-lined and fitted with a drain and shower pump.

Back aft, the master stateroom features a double berth to port and a single berth to starboard. There is a single hanging locker and ample storage throughout. Lacking its own head, the aft cabin is thoughtfully fitted with a sink and vanity.

Our test boat was powered by a pair of 5.7 L MerCruisers direct drive engines that produce 260 hp each. Advancing the throttles, we came onto plane in 5.3 seconds. Once up, we cruised along comfortably at 20.7 mph at 3400 rpm. The moderate deadrise aft of 16 degrees offered a fairly comfortable ride for a boat of its size. The handling was responsive and there were no adverse surprises in the turns. When we advanced the throttle further, we reached a top speed of 28.1 mph at 4400 rpm.

Carver was one of the first manufacturers to introduce an aft cabin model of this size back in the ’80s.The popularity has remained constant and variations of this model have had a lengthy production run.

Some may consider the stocky profile of this model somewhat ungainly, but if you’re looking for maximum accommodation in a boat in the 32- foot range you may want to consider one of several aft cabin models produced by Carver. There were some subtle design changes over the years. However, no matter what model you consider, you’ll be hard pressed to find another model out there in this size range that offers as much sleeping accommodation down below.

POWER / PERFORMANCE
TEST BOAT ENGINE: Twin 350 ci
(5.7L) MerCruiser, 260 hp, V8,
direct drive gas engines.
TOP SPEED: 4400 rpm / 28.1 mph
CRUISING SPEED:
3400 rpm / 20.7 mph
PLANING SPEED: 5.3 seconds