1998 Sea Ray 400 Express Cruiser

Step aboard and you’ll notice how open the 400 Express feels, with a wide beam that gives you generous side decks and a secure, easy walk to the bow sunpad. The helm is laid out for a proper captain, with great sightlines and a double-wide seat so no one misses the view. Below, the mid-cabin converts from a lounge to guest berth, making it surprisingly versatile for friends or family weekends. Storage is everywhere—from deep cockpit lockers for fenders and lines to cleverly tucked-away galley cabinets. The solid fiberglass hull and substantial weight give this boat a reassuring, planted feel when seas get lumpy, while the diesel power keeps running costs sensible for a 40-footer.

For these warm, changeable waters, the 400 Express is a sweet spot between comfortable cruiser and serious weekender. The open cockpit with wet bar works perfectly for sandbar days, evening harbor cruises, or raft-ups, while the wide swim platform makes swimming, snorkeling, and tender access a breeze. Diesel inboards and a robust hull handle afternoon chop with confidence, which matters when the breeze comes up against the tide. Below, air-conditioned spaces and a real galley turn hot, humid nights into relaxed overnights. With its generous fuel and water capacity, this model comfortably stretches beyond quick day runs into multi-day coastal hops.