Why I Bought a Targa for New England: Comfort, Performance, and Adventure

When I set out to find a boat for family cruising in New England, my mission was clear: I wanted something I could operate comfortably on my own, with enough sleeping capacity for five or six people, fuel-efficient, and capable of decent speed. After years of research, the Targa quickly emerged as the boat that checked all these boxes—and then some.

Listen to our customer Jim speak his thoughts on why he, too, bought a Targa for the waters of New England:

Fuel efficiency and speed were always non-negotiables. I explored many American manufacturers, but very few offered the combination I was looking for. That led me to European builders, particularly those from the Nordic countries, and Targa stood out immediately. The brand has a long-standing reputation for ruggedness, seaworthiness, speed, and efficiency, while delivering a level of comfort and build quality that outshines most U.S. equivalents.

One of the standout features that sold me on the Targa is the walkaround deck. While it slightly sacrifices interior space, the added functionality is worth it. Walkaround decks are rare among U.S. manufacturers, but in Europe, they are standard on many cruisers.

This design makes single-handing easy. With some line prep, fenders, and the maneuverability of twin engines, joystick control, and a bow thruster, docking and handling alone is a breeze.

Another feature I love is the flybridge, which adds an entirely new dimension to cruising. Open-air navigation in good weather is a thrill, but this boat is also truly all-weather. Even in cold, wet conditions, closing the cabin doors feels like sitting in a car while still cruising at 25 knots or more.

The interior build quality, attention to detail, and finishings create a luxurious, comfortable environment unmatched by most U.S. boats in this class. From the ergonomics of the helm to the spacious, airy cabins, every aspect feels carefully crafted for both performance and comfort.

Initially, I was concerned about support in the U.S. What if there were service or mechanical issues? Thankfully, most components on this boat are well-known global brands, making maintenance straightforward. So far, it has required very little attention, which has been a pleasant surprise.

Stern drives historically have a mixed reputation in the U.S., but after researching Volvo stern drives and their performance in Europe, I gained confidence. Boats overseas have logged tens of thousands of hours with minimal issues—proof of their reliability.

One of the most memorable aspects of owning a Targa is how far you can travel in a short period. We frequently cruise up to Maine, reaching places like Jonesport or Roque Island. Even though it’s several hours away, cruising at 25–28 knots makes it feel like half a day.

Fuel efficiency provides ample range for trips like this, allowing for extended adventures in New England waters. Combined with the unmatched comfort and high-quality build, these features make every trip not only fast and efficient but also relaxing and enjoyable.

For anyone looking for a fuel-efficient, fast, all-weather family cruiser that combines European build quality and comfort with rugged performance, a Targa offers a unique solution. From the walkaround deck to the flybridge, twin engines, and luxurious interior, it’s a boat that makes cruising memorable while remaining practical and manageable.

If you’re curious about the Targa experience in New England, check out our Targa Playlist on Youtube to see the boat in action and hear firsthand why this was the right choice for adventurous family cruising.

You can also take a look at all of our office locations from Maryland to Maine and contact a consultant to schedule a showing or answer any other questions you may have.