2021 Rand Leisure

As a broker at Yacht Access, established in 1980, I've seen countless vessels come and go. The 2021 Rand Leisure 28, currently available in Fort Lauderdale, represents a distinct offering in the day cruiser and cuddy cabin segment. This particular Rand Leisure 28 is listed as 'New,' indicating minimal use and presenting an opportunity to acquire a nearly-new vessel without the typical lead times of a factory order. At an asking price of $175,000, it positions itself competitively for buyers seeking a modern, stylish day boat with overnight capabilities.

Rand Boats, a Danish manufacturer, is known for its focus on minimalist design, sustainable materials, and efficient hull forms. The Leisure 28 is no exception, featuring a fiberglass hull designed for stability and a relatively dry ride. While not built for offshore passages, its hull design is well-suited for coastal cruising, lake excursions, and bay hopping, particularly in the calm waters often found around Fort Lauderdale. The construction quality is generally good, emphasizing clean lines and functional aesthetics.

Powering this Rand Leisure 28 is a single Mercruiser 6.2L engine, delivering 350 horsepower. This is a proven, reliable engine choice for a boat of this size, offering a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency for its class. The Mercury SeaCore Saltwater Protection System is a critical feature for any vessel operating in Fort Lauderdale's marine environment, significantly extending the life of the sterndrive components and reducing long-term maintenance concerns. Performance will be brisk enough for watersports and comfortable cruising speeds, though buyers should manage expectations regarding top-end speed given the single-engine configuration. Routine maintenance on Mercruiser engines is straightforward, with broad service availability.

The interior layout of the Rand Leisure 28 is a key selling point. The extensive lounge area in the cockpit is designed for socializing, comfortably accommodating over 10 guests around a large dining table. This makes it an ideal platform for entertaining. Below deck, the cuddy cabin provides a naturally illuminated space with a queen-size bed, offering comfortable overnight accommodations for two. This transforms the Leisure 28 from a day boat into a capable weekend cruiser. The inclusion of a well-appointed kitchen and bar area, complete with a refrigerator, further enhances its utility for entertaining and extended stays.

Notable features and upgrades on this specific Rand Leisure 28 include a new Garmin GPS and two Raymarine Axiom 7-inch interactive helm controls, providing modern navigation and system monitoring. The bow thruster is a significant asset for close-quarters maneuvering, especially in crowded marinas like those in Fort Lauderdale. An electric head, faux teak decking in the cockpit and foredeck, a large swim platform with a ladder, and underwater lights complete the package, adding to both convenience and aesthetic appeal. The condition, being 'New,' suggests the vessel is in excellent shape, requiring only standard commissioning and owner-specific outfitting.

While the Rand Leisure 28 offers a compelling blend of style, functionality, and modern amenities, potential buyers should be aware that it is a sterndrive boat, which typically requires more routine maintenance than an outboard configuration, particularly in saltwater. However, the SeaCore system mitigates some of these concerns. For a buyer seeking a stylish, comfortable, and capable day cruiser with overnight potential, this 2021 Rand Leisure 28 in Fort Lauderdale presents a strong value proposition. It's a modern interpretation of the cuddy cabin cruiser, designed for enjoyment on the water.

The Rand Leisure 28, particularly this 2021 model, represents a niche in the cruiser market, blending Scandinavian design with practical functionality. Build quality is solid for its class; Rand utilizes modern construction techniques, focusing on lighter, more efficient hulls. The fiberglass construction is robust enough for its intended coastal and inland water use. Sea-keeping is good in moderate chop, offering a stable platform, though it's not designed for heavy offshore conditions. The single Mercruiser 6.2L 350hp provides adequate power for a boat of this size, delivering respectable cruising speeds and economy. The value proposition here is strong for a buyer seeking a contemporary, stylish vessel with overnight capabilities that feels more substantial than a typical bowrider but is more agile than a larger express cruiser. For any 'New' condition vessel, a pre-purchase survey is still advisable to confirm systems functionality and ensure no latent issues from storage or transport. Pay particular attention to the sterndrive system, even with the SeaCore protection, as it's the most vulnerable component in saltwater.