From the moment we stepped into the Stingray 240CR, we knew this would be, like all Stingray family boats, a user-friendly craft.

For example, a three-step stainless-steel boarding ladder with non-slip rungs and grab handles helps swimmers get into the water or back onto the built-in swim platform. Once on the platform, you find a storage box and seat amidships. A built-in ski tow ring and freshwater shower round out amenities we found before we got any further than the swim platform.

But you buy a cuddy to spend time in places other than the "back ledge." The 240CR has comfortable port and starboard padded vinyl helm chairs, and they swivel for access to the portside sink and built-in 25-quart cooler. Large built-in steps are a unique feature of the 240CR, leading to the foredeck cleats and large built-in anchor locker.

You'll be going out for a while on a boat like this, so Stingray has created an insulated icebox behind the starboard helm (it drains overboard), while two forward and two aft in-deck cockpit drains remove any excess water that might stray into the cockpit. Nighttime users will appreciate the three indirect lights that illuminate the cockpit area.

Families will especially appreciate features like the portable toilet and large fully padded cuddy cabin that contains storage reminiscent of that found on a 28-footer. A portable butane stove comes standard and stows nicely in one of several compartments. Storage netting along each gunwale keeps wet items off the deck. Something we really like is the way Stingray installs screens on the side portholes and roof latch to keep bugs out. Sounds elementary, but there are a lot of cuddies out there that don't have the screens.

We found the 5.7L MerCruiser a more than adequate powerplant and felt that the standard 4.3L would be insufficient for all but a few owners. A 6.2L MPI engine with MerCruiser Bravo Three drive is also available.