Formula expands its Super Sport Crossover idea
Formula Boats has introduced the 360 Super Sport Crossover, a new boat combining an open social deck with the weather protection and below-deck facilities of a compact cruising cabin. The design sits in the company's SSC family, where the emphasis is on performance day boating without forcing owners to give up overnight possibilities. The latest model is notable because its layout attempts to bridge the gap between an open bowrider and a more sheltered sports cruiser.
The manufacturer identifies designer Michael Young with the programme and describes the 360 as a distinct addition to the range. Although the number 360 suggests a 36-foot craft, Formula lists several different lengths depending on whether the measurement stops at the transom or includes outboards and other fittings. That is an important practical detail for marina allocation and anyone contemplating long-distance transport.
Dimensions that need careful reading
The 360 SSC is described as 36 feet to the transom, with a nominal overall length of 38 feet and a maximum beam of 11 feet 3 inches. The maker also publishes longer configured dimensions for twin- and triple-outboard installations, including the equipment associated with moving the boat on a trailer. Buyers should therefore take the actual as-equipped measurements to their marina and storage provider.
Weight also depends on the power arrangement: Formula gives approximately 19,000 pounds with triple outboards and 19,400 pounds with twin outboards in its specification table. Neither figure should be mistaken for the displacement of a fully loaded boat carrying fuel, people and supplies. The scale puts the 360 beyond the casual towboat category for many owners, making lifting, storage and berth handling key ownership considerations.
Full-width coupe shelter with an open-air feel
The boat's upper structure includes a wide coupe top with a substantial windscreen, a powered glass sunroof and a forward ventilation opening. A sliding bow window creates a more direct connection between the cockpit and forward seating. The aim is to let guests feel outdoors while giving the operator a more protected driving environment when weather becomes less agreeable.
Formula offers optional side glazing for buyers who want to enclose more of the cockpit. The value of such protection depends on where and when the boat will be used. Owners in warmer climates may want maximum airflow and shade, while those cruising shoulder seasons may prefer the ability to close openings quickly. Visibility and ventilation should both be assessed with the boat in its intended configuration.
A single-level deck built around social zones
The manufacturer calls its arrangement SmartZone, incorporating a broad forward seating area, triple helm seats and an aft U-shaped lounge. The intention is to create several gathering spaces that remain connected, rather than isolating guests at one end of the boat. This can be particularly valuable during family outings, when swimmers, children and passengers taking a break may all want slightly different things from the same deck.
The seating plan is flexible but not limitless. Walkways still need to remain clear as people move toward the side door, and the position of tables and cushions affects the amount of working floor space. A buyer should test the arrangement with a realistic group, checking where coolers, personal belongings and safety gear will be placed when every seat is occupied.
An ergonomically focused triple-seat helm
The 360 SSC borrows a three-person command position from other Formula models, with seat bases that can support standing, leaning or sitting. Adjustable footrest heights are intended to help a broader range of operators find a comfortable position. For a boat that may spend hours under way, those small ergonomic details can influence fatigue as much as an impressive dashboard.
Formula lists a Raymarine Axiom 2 chartplotter in its standard helm description and offers more elaborate multi-display options. Mercury electronic controls, vessel information and joystick manoeuvring are part of the technical story, although final equipment needs to be checked against the order specification. An effective trial includes low-speed docking, visibility to the corners and the ease of using critical controls without looking away from the water.
The hull and outboard installation
Underneath, the manufacturer specifies a 21-degree FAS3Tech stepped hull and offers twin or triple outboard power. The combination is presented as a performance-oriented solution for an owner who enjoys covering coastal distances quickly while retaining a sheltered social boat at anchor. The exact engine configuration will have consequences for maintenance access, fuel consumption and usable transom space.
A hull specification is not a substitute for verified performance in the sea conditions typical of an owner's home waters. Buyers should inspect builder test data for the intended propulsion package and evaluate acceleration, ride quality, noise and manoeuvring under representative loads. Outboards can simplify some kinds of servicing, but a triple-engine configuration also means three separate power units to maintain.
Real overnight facilities below
Unlike many day boats that provide only a small changing compartment, the 360 SSC includes a dedicated double berth, a galley area and a fully enclosed stand-up marine head. Formula publishes 6 feet 10 inches of cabin headroom and describes practical amenities including a refrigerator, microwave and coffee-making provision. Those features make a short overnight stop more realistic without requiring a substantially larger cruising yacht.
The builder also details substantial cabinetry and a private head with shower. Owners should nevertheless inspect whether access, ventilation, personal stowage and sleeping space fit their crew. The cabin is part of a compact performance boat, so it will not deliver the separation or volume of a large motor cruiser. Still, its presence changes how spontaneously an owner might extend a day trip into a weekend.
Tankage and cruising practicalities
Formula lists 275 US gallons of fuel, 36 gallons of freshwater and an equal 36-gallon holding tank. These figures support the mix of day use and occasional overnighting envisaged for the model, but the actual cruising range remains dependent on power choice and operating speed. A larger nominal fuel tank does not justify stretching passages without adequate reserve.
Bridge clearance is another important consideration because the coupe structure carries openings, lights and optional electronics. Formula publishes different heights depending on the position of the mast light and whether radar is fitted. Buyers who use inland waterways or covered docks should obtain the final measured air draft in their own configuration rather than rely on a simplified marketing dimension.
Boarding and activity at the waterline
The manufacturer includes a side access door, helping passengers board from a dock and making it easier to move between the main cockpit and waterfront activities. That is consistent with the design's emphasis on entertaining and swimming. Guests may spend considerable time stationary on a boat like this, making stable boarding arrangements as important to the experience as speed and handling.
Careful operation remains essential when a door is open or the boat is positioned alongside other craft. The correct use of barriers, fenders and ladders should be explained to everyone aboard. Equipment such as a powered roof adds comfort but should also be inspected for drainage, cleaning and long-term service access, particularly for a boat stored outdoors year-round.
A meaningful alternative to larger cruisers
The Formula 360 SSC is designed for someone who values a lively open cockpit but does not want to sacrifice a proper sheltered cabin. Its strong point is the combination of a full-width social deck, substantial coupe protection and practical facilities for spending the night. At 38 feet overall before some fittings, it is no lightweight runabout; ownership involves the kind of marina planning expected of a serious sports cruiser.
The official Formula 360 Super Sport Crossover page provides detailed specifications, photos and configuration information. It is the starting point for comparing the model against more traditional cabin cruisers. A written as-equipped quotation and loaded sea trial will help determine whether its mix of pace, outdoor living and overnight comfort is right for the intended owner.