Whittley to debut luxury trailer boat at Sanctuary Cove 2026

Whittley Marine Group will use the 2026 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show to launch its new CR 3100 OB, a 31-foot trailerable cruiser the company says is the most significant model in its 70-year history. The boat represents Whittley’s push into larger-format cruisers that still comply with Australia’s 2.5-metre towing-width limit, aiming to offer motor-yacht style accommodation in a package that can be towed by road.

According to the company, the CR 3100 OB is the result of extensive design work including CAD modelling and virtual-reality prototyping, with the goal of maximising internal space while remaining road legal. Managing Director Neville Whittley said the boat builds on feedback from long-time owners seeking greater onboard comfort and that several customer-sold units are already in production ahead of the public reveal.

The interior layout focuses on liveability, with a queen island bed replacing the conventional vee berth typically found in trailerable cruisers. The removal of traditional side decks, made possible by a walk-through windscreen design, is said to free up additional cabin space. The cabin includes an enclosed bathroom, a galley suited to weekend cruising and a saloon with opposing lounges that can convert to extra sleeping accommodation.

In the cockpit, a sliding aft lounge is designed to adapt between fishing and entertaining roles, while a self-draining deck and large underfloor lazarette provide practical storage options. Bifold glass doors connect the interior and exterior spaces, and a 48-volt electrical system supports off-grid features such as optional air-conditioning and an electric grill without requiring a generator.

Power options include twin Honda BF250 V6 outboards or a single Honda BF350 V8, with a fully electric version also planned. Whittley says the hull design, featuring wide chines and a 19-degree deadrise, is intended to balance stability with offshore capability. Claimed cruising speed is around 29 knots, with top-end performance approaching 46 knots depending on configuration, assisted by standard Humphree automatic trim control.

Whittley is positioning the CR 3100 OB for buyers who want the flexibility to tow their boat to different waterways but still expect the comfort of a compact cruiser. With pricing starting at approximately $462,000 including trailer and rising to around $550,000 when fully optioned, the new model enters the upper end of the trailerable cruiser market.

The CR 3100 OB will be unveiled at 9:30am on Thursday 21 May at Whittley’s stand at the Sanctuary Cove show, where the company will also display its CR 2600, CR 2380 and SL 27 models.