The Cruisers Yachts 310 Express 2011 is a modified-V design and the Cruisers Yachts 520 Express 2009 is a semi-displacement design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.

Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Cruisers Yachts 520 Express 2009 measures 52,0 feet overall (2009), giving it roughly 20,8 additional feet of deck space compared to the Cruisers Yachts 310 Express 2011 at 31,3 feet (2011). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Cruisers Yachts 520 Express 2009 tips the scales at 42 000 lbs - 31 000 lbs less than the Cruisers Yachts 310 Express 2011 at 11 000 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.

The Cruisers Yachts 520 Express 2009 tops out at 715 hp. Engine specs for the Cruisers Yachts 310 Express 2011 aren't listed - confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Cruisers Yachts 520 Express 2009 carries 500 gallons versus 125 gallons in the Cruisers Yachts 310 Express 2011. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.