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Best Yachts – Top 15 Picks for 2024

Carver 52 Command Bridge

Carver 52 Command Bridge

Hatteras M75 Panacera

Hatteras M75 Panacera

Sabre 58 Salon Express

Sabre 58 Salon Express

Chris Riley

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a yacht? Probably those huge luxury cruisers reserved for the high society folks, right? Well, that’s true, but those are a special group of ships referred to as luxury yachts.

The questions you need to be asking are – What is a yacht? At what point is a yacht regarded as a ship? And, what exactly makes a yacht a yacht? Here’s a little boating lesson for you.

A yacht is any fast cruising watercraft used for pleasure or sport. Yachts can be classified into cruisers, superyachts, and mega yachts. The difference between them all boils down to their respective sizes.

Luxury vessels that are less than 12 meters long fall in the class of cabin cruiser yachts – or simply, cruisers. Those that measure more than 24 meters are classified as superyachts. Anything that’s 50+ meters long is a mega yacht. Anything larger than a mega yacht is generally referred to as a ship and generally describes a working vessel as opposed to something recreational.

So, as you can see, you don’t necessarily have to be swimming in a ton of money to become a yacht owner. The only difference will be in the size of the craft you get. Clear enough?

Without further ado, here are the 15 best yachts, as well as a few useful tips on how to choose the best one.

Top on our list of best yachts is the Carver 52 Command Bridge. Its unique design, spacious salon, expansive foredeck seating area, and well-thought-out amenities make this one the best yachts bar-none.

It comes with a master head, a spacious stall shower, and a full-beam master stateroom that even has its own private entrance. It doesn’t get any better than that.

 Carver  →

● Designed for long-range cruising ● Ample living space ● Comes with loads of convenience amenities

● Not ideal for use in icy waters

The Hatteras M75 Panacera yacht is the perfect embodiment of superior craftsmanship and timeless elegance. One look at it, and you can tell that it was built with impeccable attention to detail.

Everything from the galley layout and the open-concept deckhouse salon to the 360-degree panoramic windows and state-of-the-art amenities adds a completely new dimension to luxury yachting.

 Hatteras  →

● Ample space ● Exquisite interiors and exteriors ● Fully-customizable

● High maintenance

Yachts don’t exactly come cheap. So, the term “budget” yacht might be a bit of a stretch when referring to the price. Nonetheless, if you’re shopping for a watercraft that delivers excellent value for money, the Sabre 58 Salon Express is a great option to consider.

It has an open yacht design that seamlessly merges the interior with the exterior and has large windows that flood the interior spaces with lots of natural light. The Sabre also has three en-suite cabins, abundant storage, and several other great features that make it stand out from other boats in its class.

 Sabre Yachts  →

● Great value for money ● Spacious interior ● Ample storage

● Not ideal for use in the high seas

Tiara Yachts 53 Coupe

Tiara Yachts 53 Coupe

The Tiara Yachts 53 Coupe is the perfect family watercraft. It is designed for indoor and outdoor living. The bridge deck space and salon offer breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the ocean. It also has comfortable living quarters below deck that are guaranteed to give the entire family an exceptional cruising experience.

 Tiara  →

● Great for making memories ● Comfortable living quarters ● Offers panoramic views all round

● High maintenance costs

60 Cantius

The 60 Cantius from Cruiser was built for long-distance passages. It has spacious living quarters both above and below deck, as well as lots of comfort and convenience amenities that allow you to spend extended periods out on the water.

You’ll particularly enjoy the retractable sunroof that allows you to bask in the sun while enjoying breathtaking panoramic ocean views as you cruise along.

 Cruisers Yachts  →

● Ideal for long-distance passages ● Beautiful, elegant design ● Spacious living areas above and below deck

● Pricier than other boats in its class

93 Motor Yacht

93 Motor Yacht

If you’re looking for a watercraft that can go the distance, it doesn’t get any better than the 93 Motor Yacht from Viking Yachts. First impressions: It is gorgeous.

Its beauty isn’t skin-deep either. The 93MY was built to navigate the rough, choppy waters of the high seas, making it the perfect vessel for anyone who wants to go on an ocean-crossing adventure of a lifetime.

 Viking Yachts  →

● Stunning exterior and interior design ● Built to navigate rough water conditions ● It is pretty massive

● Requires a small crew to operate it

Jeanneau NC 37

Jeanneau NC 37

The Jeanneau NC 37 is an excellent beginner boat. Its fluid layout and ergonomic design make movement in this yacht a breeze. It comes with large panoramic windows with an open sunroof that bathe the living space in lots of natural light.

There’s an owner’s cabin, as well as a guest cabin that both offer ample standing headroom. Its well-proportioned interior alongside the multitude of comfort and convenience amenities it comes with makes it one of the best beginner yachts in the market today.

 Jeanneau  →

● Ample living space and storage ● Great value for money ● Open ergonomic layout

● Not ideal for ocean crossing

Regal 36 XO

Regal 36 XO

If you’re looking for a yacht that combines both comfort and functionality, the Regal 36 XO delivers on both fronts. This beauty is powered by two outboard engines and offers multi-bow seating that also doubles up as casting decks.

It has a spacious cabin, open-air salon, seamless galley that integrates the aft seating area with the roomy saloon, and a windshield walk-through that provides easy access to the bow.

 Regal  →

● Versatile ● Spacious interiors and exteriors ● Fully-customizable

Back Cove 390

Back Cove 390

If you thought yachts were reserved for ocean-use only, that couldn’t be further from the truth. There are several models specially designed for lakes. The Back Cove 390 yacht is the perfect example.

Its smaller size makes it ideal for lake cruising. It has a fully-enclosed helm, as well as an owner and guest cabin below-deck, making it perfect for overnight stay.

 Back Cove Yachts  →

● Perfect size for lakes ● Ideal for entertaining ● Delivers optimal handling and maneuverability

● May not be ideal for a long extended stay

Formula 45 Yacht

Formula 45 Yacht

The Formula 45 Yacht is the perfect liveaboard watercraft. It has all the comfort and convenience amenities you would expect to find in any standard land-based home. It is spacious with a well-thought-out practical layout that makes movement on the yacht easy. It has enough room to comfortably accommodate a small family of four.

 Formula  →

● Best yacht for the money ● Spacious interior ● Comes with lots of convenience amenities

Ocean Alexander 36L

Ocean Alexander 36L

If you’re thinking of venturing out into the rough seas, you’re going to need a yacht that can hold its own in the sloppiest of weather conditions. The Ocean Alexander 36L is built to do just that.

Beyond its stunning exterior and interiors, this yacht’s overall rugged construction is focused on giving passengers the smoothest ride possible regardless of the water conditions outside. Its deep V-hull design and its 324,500 lbs. displacement capacity are largely responsible for the exceptional stability it displays when cruising through the high seas.

 Ocean Alexander  →

● Exceptionally stable ● Packed with loads of comfort and convenience amenities ● Expansive interior and exterior

● Needs a crew to run it

Westport 112 Motor Yacht

Westport 112 Motor Yacht

As far as luxury yachts go, the Westport 112 Motor Yacht is in a class of its own. This 111 ft. 8 in. long watercraft is built to deliver extraordinary performance inside and out.

It has four en-suite staterooms that sleep eight individuals and can accommodate up to five crew members, including the captain. The interior oozes luxury, sophistication, and a timeless elegance that’s hard to come by these days.

 Westport Yachts  →

● Spacious indoor and outdoor living areas ● Exquisite interiors ● Suitable for cruising the high seas

● Expensive

Beneteau Oceanis 60

Beneteau Oceanis 60

The Beneteau Oceanis 60 is by far the best sailing yacht we’ve come across. It is built on a hull that guarantees safety and unmatched performance at every turn.

This luxury sailing yacht has a unique deck plan that allows for single-handed maneuvering across the water. The glossy woodwork, cozy upholstery, and the spacious living quarters below-deck make it the perfect sailing yacht for your ocean getaway.

 Beneteau  →

● Exceptional fuel economy ● Spacious living areas ● Ideal for single-handed sailing

● May not be as fast as other non-sailboat yachts

Antares 9

Having a crew is great and all, but it’s also nice to have a yacht that you can operate on your own for that measure of added privacy when you need it. The Antares 9 is the perfect owner operator yacht.

It is modern, stylish, and compact, allowing you to run it on your own and discreetly slip away from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life anytime you need to.

● Elegant design ● Can be operated solo ● Comfortable and safe navigation

● Not ideal for the rough, choppy waters of the high seas

Prestige 690

Prestige 690

Let’s get to what yachts are best known for – hosting memorable parties. The Prestige 690 has everything you need to keep the party going all day and all night.

Its open design layout and its expansive deck make it the perfect yacht for entertaining. The elegant, timeless design of its exterior, alongside the breathtaking finishing, are just a few of the 690’s attributes that add to its appeal.

 Prestige  →

● Massive open deck ● Comes with lots of comfort and convenience features ● Sleeps up to 10 people

How to Choose the Best Yachts – Buyer’s Guide

A yacht is a pretty big purchase. So, you need to know what to look for when choosing the right one for your needs. Here are a couple of pointers that might come in handy.

Type of Yacht

The type of yacht you buy depends in large part on your intended use for it. Most yachts tend to fall into one of three categories – For water sports like wakeboarding , fishing motor yachts, or the overnight cruising variety. Once you know what kind of recreational activities you plan on engaging in, that should help narrow down your choices.

Next, you need to consider what size of yacht you should get. Do you have a young family that you intend to expand in the coming years? Do you plan to use the vessel for day cruising, or do you intend to spend a couple of nights on board from time to time?

Will the yacht be just for you and your significant other, or do you plan to frequently entertain several guests on board? This will advise whether you should buy a cabin cruiser yacht, a superyacht, or a mega yacht.

In a perfect world, you would have all the money you need to buy any kind of watercraft you want. Sadly, that’s not the reality we live in. Keep in mind that yachts don’t exactly come cheap. So, even if you’re planning to purchase a small yacht, you’ll still need to spend quite a bit of cash to get it.

The best thing to do would be to set a budget and compare the different models on offer from different manufacturers . Aside from the boat’s purchase price, you also need to think about the costs associated with owning a yacht. These include insurance, repairs, maintenance, cleaning, and the vessel’s general servicing.

Figure out what kind of comfort and convenience features are a must-have for you. How many cabins should it have? Do you need it to have a summer grill up top? Or will the one in the mini kitchen below-deck suffice? Ensure that the yacht you get has all the amenities you need.

Last but not least, before you sign any purchase contract, ensure that you schedule a sea trial with the dealer. That way, you get a true feel for the boat before you buy it.

Look Before You Leap

If you’re in the market for a shiny new yacht, any of the 15 vessels we’ve detailed in this guide will make an excellent choice. Do your homework beforehand, and make sure your desired craft has all the features and amenities you seek.

Use the tips we’ve outlined in this guide to help you choose the best yachts from all the different options that are hot on the market right now. Happy yachting!

In the meantime, if you’re looking for the best aluminum fishing boat , we’ve got you covered. Check out our review for our top picks.

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About Chris

Outdoors, I’m in my element, especially in the water. I know the importance of being geared up for anything. I do the deep digital dive, researching gear, boats and knowhow and love keeping my readership at the helm of their passions.

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The Best Boats For Your Money

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There's a big difference between cost and value. We spotlight the boats that give you the biggest bang for your buck.

Family relaxing on boat

Photo: Thinkstock.com/Thomas Northcut

If you've been boat shopping lately, then you know it's hard to sort through the huge range of runabouts, the copious crop of center-consoles, and the plentiful packs of pontoons. It's even harder to determine the ones that are merely cheap and the gems that represent real value. Never fear, dear boater. We're here to help. In this issue, we'll break down trailer boats into four basic classes: bowriders/runabouts, watersports boats, pontoon boats, and fishing boats. Then we'll identify top values in four different price categories: those costing less than $15,000, those less than $25,000, those less than $50,000, and those less than $100,000. We'll be sure to provide some boat-shopping insights along the way as well as tease you with you some additional options to dream about, too. Ready? Let's look at some of the best buys for boaters.

Bowriders/Runabouts

These are a popular choice among family boaters, and it's no wonder. They can be used for everything from waterskiing to fishing to pulling up on a quiet sandy beach for a picnic. They're the do-everything boat for people with diverse needs and desires. Think of them as the SUVs of the modern trailer-boating family.

Less Than $15,000

It's quite difficult to find a bowrider for less than $15,000, but one that comes in under the wire and deserves recognition for its exceptional stability and interior spaciousness is the Bayliner Element. This is one of the most unusual bowriders to hit the market in recent years, because instead of riding on a common-V or semi-V hull, it rides on Bayliner's M hull, which is essentially a cross between a V and a tri-hull and helps explain the boat's extraordinary stability. It easily handles small chop, although the downside to this hull design is a bit of a bumpy ride in waves larger than a foot. Such a hull isn't very responsive to trim, either. But because this design carries the beam well forward, it also makes for a surprisingly large bow cockpit.

Bayliner Element

Bayliner Element Runabout

LOA: 16'2" | Beam: 7'5" | Weight: 1,570 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 12 gal. | Price: $14,742

When we ran the Element (with the stock 60-hp outboard, two people aboard, and half a tank of fuel), we broke 30 mph and found that a cruising speed in the mid-20s netted more than 7 miles per gallon. The Element, with seating for four in the stern and two more in the bow, comes well-equipped right out of the box. The Mercury four-stroke outboard, swim platforms on either side of the outboard (one with a telescopic ladder), multicolor hullside graphics, two-tone vinyl cushions, and a single-axle trailer are all included in the standard package. Beverages can be chilled in a 25-quart Igloo cooler that slides neatly under the aft sunpad, and you'll find stowage compartments under the bow and aft seating. What won't you find? Another competitor in this price category that's this well-equipped, much less one with comparable stability and interior volume.

Less Than $25,000

Coming in just $549 under the wire, the Four Winns H180 OB provides a relatively low-cost option with exceptional attention to detail and finish work — plus a bit of customization. While many boats in this price range have unfinished stowage compartments, in the H180 OB they're carpeted. Other competitors leave the swim ladder exposed, but Four Winns covers it with a hatch. The average inexpensive bowrider has a plain gelcoat dash, but on this model, you'll discover top-stitched vinyl accents. And if you order the boat instead of buying off the showroom floor, you even get to choose the gelcoat and interior color schemes. Few competitors give you any sort of opportunity to semi-customize a boat at this price point, yet Four Winns will go so far as to color-match the trailer to go with your boat.

Four Winns H180 OB

Four Winns H180 OB

LOA: 17'11" | Beam: 7'7" | Weight: 2,150 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 24 gal. | Price: $24,451

Four Winns doesn't strip the H180 OB to keep the price low, either. Big-ticket standards include the swing-away tongue, welded-tube trailer, an Evinrude 90-hp E-TEC outboard, a full-sized walk-across swim platform, courtesy lights, a tilting steering wheel, and a Bluetooth-capable stereo with iPod/MP3 port and two speakers. The H180 OB also gets a full complement of engine gauges, which is an area in which some builders skimp to save a buck or two.

Tahoe 450 TS

Tahoe 450 TS

LOA: 18'5" | Beam: 7'10" | Weight: 3,025 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 24 gal. | Price: $23,595

Close competitors include the Tahoe 450 TS Outboard, which shaves about $1,000 off the price but also cuts off your ability to choose the hull and cushion colors. The Rinker Captiva 170 OB is another price-conscious bowrider that shoppers in this category may want to consider.

Less Than $50,000

A unique construction technique that improves the boat's strength and rigidity — and thus its ride — is what propels the Larson LX 225S IO into the leading position for bowriders under $50,000. Yes, you can get more LOA at this price. Sure, you could get a boat with more power than the stock 200-hp MerCruiser 4.5 liter (although you can upgrade the LX 225S to a MerCruiser 6.2 liter with 300 horses and still squeeze in at just under $50,000). What you can't get anywhere else is Larson's VEC construction. VEC is a closed-molding system that vacuum-infuses the hull and stringers into one single piece. The net result is felt when you smash into waves; VEC-built boats simply do less smashing than the others.

Larson LX 225S IO

Larson LX 225S IO

LOA: 23'1" | Beam: 8'4" | Weight: 3,100 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 36 gal. | Price: $43,267

The 225S can't top the charts based on one feature alone, of course. But its comprehensive standard features list goes well beyond the norm, including items like a Shorelander trailer with disc brakes, canvas bow and cockpit covers, an iPod/MP3-compatible stereo, and multiple gelcoat color and stripe options.

At this pricing level, we wish the stock powerplant came with a Bravo III drive, and we'd recommend upgrading to it (remember, the price tag does leave some wiggle room), because the dual counter-rotating props of the Bravo III vastly improve handling and provide a better hole shot, which make for a better boating experience.

Chaparral 223 Vortex VR

Chaparral 223 Vortex VR

LOA: 22'3" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 3,500 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 52 gal. | Price: $46,895

Those considering the 225S may also want to look closely at such other stout models as the Chaparral 223 Vortex VR and the Monterey 224FSX.

Around $100,000

For $100K, you expect a lot — and the Cobalt R5 delivers. It may be a bit surprising to see a Cobalt included in a roundup of boats that are big on value because for many years, Cobalt has had a reputation as a top-shelf boat, but one that cost a lot of money for the LOA. Yet the R5, which is 25'8" long, starts off right at the $100,000 mark. Several similarly sized competitors cost notably more. The bigger surprise?

Cobalt R5

LOA: 25'8" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 4,880 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 50 gal. | Price: $100,318

The R5 lives up to Cobalt's reputation, and if the company cut any corners to make this price point, we sure can't figure out where. Take a look at the some of the yacht-like details, and you'll understand why this boat delivers a bang as big as 100,000 bucks. How many bowriders include a thru-hull anchoring system with a stainless-steel scuff plate? A custom-stitched helm brow and dash perimeter detailed with Makassar grain accents? A black leather and stainless-steel steering wheel? Plus, Cobalt doesn't lowball you with a wimpy powerplant, but instead starts with a potent 6.2-liter MerCruiser.

The ski pylon, removable bow- and aft-cockpit carpets, portable MSD, and stereo are all included as base equipment. And that stock stereo provides another great example of Cobalt's quality level. It has a remote at the dash and iPod/USB/MP3 compatibility, like most, but while your average standard stereo comes with a pair of speakers, this one includes a six-speaker system. The bottom line? The Cobalt R5 delivers top-shelf quality while barely exceeding the $100,000 mark.

Formula 240 Bowrider

Formula 240 Bowrider

LOA: 25'4" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 5,000 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 55 gal. | Price: $105,030

If you find this model interesting, also take a good look at the Sea Ray 250 SLX, the Chaparral 257 SSX, and the Formula 240 Bowrider.

Power Curve

While the basic bowrider design has remained more or less the same for decades, the systems that power these boats have gone through many changes. Sterndrives continue to rule the roost in this type of boat, but outboards have been making inroads. Due to the latest EPA regulations, sterndrive manufacturers have had to add catalytic converters to their engines. That raised costs substantially, sometimes by as much as 5 percent of an average bowrider's sticker price, instantly making outboards a less expensive — and thus more attractive — alternative. As a result, in the past few years we've seen a population explosion of outboard-powered bowriders.

250hp MerCruiser sterndrive

There are both plusses and minuses to having an outboard on a bowrider. They commonly post a higher top end, have improved slow-speed handling (single-propeller sterndrives tend to wander and require lots of course corrections), and are exceedingly reliable. On the flip side, mounting an outboard on the transom means you lose the full-beam swim platform, and fuel efficiency often drops in comparison with an identical model with a sterndrive.

Sterndrive closeup

Towing Trends

Volvo Penta forward drive

The current news in watersports boats has to do with a new propulsion system, Volvo Penta's Forward Drive. By putting a pod-like forward-facing drive unit on a sterndrive, the prop gets moved several feet forward and under the boat, tucked away from surfers and boarders. And because the drive unit can be trimmed, it can also be used to help shape the wake. This development has allowed a number of builders who produce sterndrive runabouts, like Bryant, Chaparral, Cobalt, Four Winns, Regal, and Monterey, to adapt existing platforms into watersports-specific models.

If these Forward Drive boats are so good, why didn't any win as our top picks? Hey, that's the way the cookie crumbled — we had a huge number of great boats from which to choose. And as it turns out, many of these Forward Drive boats fall into the $60,000 to $80,000 range. We noted several Forward Drive boats that, had we established a $75,000 category, might not have been overshadowed by pricier competitors.

If you like sterndrive propulsion and you want a watersports boat, you'll definitely want to further investigate Forward Drive.

Watersports Boats

If you're young, or young at heart, it's tough to beat the thrill of being towed through the water at high speeds. But whether it's waterskiing, wakeboarding, or the newly popular wakesurfing that appeal to you, you'll be needing a new watersports-specific boat. Hang on tight — this is going to be a wet-and-wild ride.

At this price point, you're certainly not going to be able to afford a fancy watersports boat with ballast tanks and tow towers. You can, however, get yourself an excellent tow-sports platform in the form of the Sea-Doo Wake Pro 230. This is one of the industry's few PWCs designed specifically for towing. It has must-have features like a three-position tow pylon, an aft-facing observer's seat with grab handles, and a board rack. But it also takes things a step further by incorporating modern performance perks that enhance watersports, such as multiple preprogrammed acceleration profiles for skiers and preset variable trim for fine-tuning the ride and acceleration.

Sea-Doo Wake Pro 230

Sea-Doo Wake Pro 230

LOA: 11'7" | Beam: 4'0" | Weight: 894 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 15.9 gal. | Price: $14,499

True, using a PWC for watersports does create some limitations. Your crew is maxed out at three, you can't create those big ripping boat wakes for surfing, and you're probably going to be wet whether you're the tower or the towee. There are, however, some additional advantages to consider. Given its dry weight of less than 1,000 pounds, you can trailer your vessel with just about anything larger than a Smart Car. Launching and retrieving will always be a piece of cake, and the small fuel tank and low operating costs make for some seriously cheap thrills.

Waverunner VX

Waverunner VX

LOA: 11'0" | Beam: 4'0" | Weight: 707 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 18.5 gal. | Price: $9,599

A strong option to consider is Yamaha's Waverunner VX, which doesn't have a pylon or the acceleration profiles but does have a towing eye on the stern.

The Scarab 165 is a jet-driven towing machine powered by a 150-hp Rotax 4-TEC engine. That means it has plenty of pulling oomph, and unlike most boats of this size, it also has a full-beam integrated swim platform. Most boats this inexpensive have an outboard slung on a transom and a miniscule swim platform off to one side.

Scarab 165

LOA: 15'9" | Beam: 7'1" | Draft: 1'0" | Weight: 1,600 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 20 gal. | Price: $21,238

Another advantage of the jet drive: the propeller, or rather, the lack thereof. Obviously, climbing in and out of small boats with exposed props can lead to problems, but it's a nonissue in this case. We also like the aft-facing seats built into the transom. While we wouldn't condone riding in them while underway at high speed, they do provide an excellent lounging spot for coving and relaxing after a long day of shredding water.

But no boat is perfect, and while the Scarab 165 is our top pick in this range, we do see room for improvement. An option to trade in the ski-tow eye for a pylon would be nice, and adding a windshield would make captaining the boat more comfortable. To make the 165 a dedicated watersports boat, you'll want to order the $2,900 tower with board racks. Luckily, there's still some room in the budget after paying this boat's MSRP of $21,238.

What about some other choices? Truth be told, there aren't many watersports-dedicated boats in this price range; you could make do by stepping back down to a large PWC or opting for a small bowrider or center-console that's designed for other waterborne activities.

Around $50,000

The 212X is Yamaha's "high-performance wakeboard edition" runabout, and although it isn't particularly large for the price point, it does represent big value. It has the features found on high-end watersports boats, many of which cost literally twice as much as the 212X, including a folding tower with wakeboard racks, a cruise-control system that maintains preset towing speeds, and, most impressively, twin ballast tanks that can be flooded to weight down the boat and kick up an enhanced wave.

Yamaha 212X

Yamaha 212X

LOA: 21'3" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 3,605 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 50 gal. | Price: $57,999

Another big advantage the 212X holds over the competition is its power package. This is a twin-engine boat, with a pair of high-output 1.8-liter four-stroke jet engines. Can you think of another boat of this size, type, and price with twin engines? We didn't think so. Yet another big surprise is the stock trailer, which is a tandem-axle model. Virtually all competitors come with a single-axle trailer. Meanwhile, the Yamaha 212X enjoys those same jet-drive advantages found on our prior pick: the elimination of prop worries and the full-beam swim platform.

Other solid choices include the Scarab's 165's bigger brother, the 215, or, perhaps, the Four Winns H200RS equipped with a tower.

Pay attention to your wake when circling back to retrieve a skier. Arriving at your skier as your wake comes crashing back on you could put your skier at risk of having the boat come down on top of him or her.

Less Than $100,000

We're really glad the MasterCraft X20 doesn't break the $100,000 mark because this boat deserves to make our list. For starters, it's a MasterCraft. MasterCrafts enjoy excellent resale value, and when you consider how much more you can recoup when reselling it as compared to most other boats, in the long run, it isn't as expensive as it seems. Then note that it has the inboard V-drive power system preferred by hardcore watersports jocks. At 20 feet it's not large for a watersports boat, but it does have wrap-around seating in the cockpit and bow plus a pair of aft-facing seats built into the transom with stowage underneath.

MasterCraft X20

MasterCraft X20

LOA: 20'0" | Beam: 8'2" | Weight: 4,800 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 49 gal. | Price: $91,270

And the X20 also gives you the ability to customize. We're not just talking about the boat — sure you get to pick from a huge variety of interior and exterior color patterns and yes, you get to choose the graphics, but you also get to customize the watersports experience. Thanks to the wake-generating Gen 2 Surf System (which integrates hull design, surf tabs, the 2,000-lb. ballast system, and touch-screen controls to create four different wake "zones") you can make those waves rip, curl, and build as you like.

When towing anyone behind your boat, have at least one spotter on board to keep track of the skier and relay instructions to the driver.

We should caution that many features you may want on the X20 are considered optional. Although you can take the boat home for under $100,000 it would be easy to add a lot of goodies and break the bank. Beyond that, you won't find much to complain about on this boat. MasterCraft has a well-deserved reputation for building top-shelf watersports boats and the X20 is no exception.

Super Air Nautique 230

Super Air Nautique 230

LOA: 23'1.5" | Beam: 8'4.5" | Weight: 4,650 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 47 gal. | Price: $101,454

Those interested in the X20 will probably also take a peek at the Super Air Nautique 230 and the Supra SR.

Speedy Developments

Yamaha F350 outboard

The recent growing popularity of pontoon boats has led to some very interesting developments in the genre, and a slew of monstrous pontoons in the 28- to 32-foot size range have hit the market in the past couple of years. A 31-foot Premier Encounter with a full cabin was introduced at last year's Miami International Boat Show, and the 31-foot Dodici on display sported triple 300-hp Evinrude G2 ETEC outboards. You can find double-decker pontoons with waterslides aiming at the lake from atop 12-foot-high top decks as well as party platforms with the capacity to carry up to 24 people (yes, there are enough seats for everyone).

With size comes power, and as pontoons have grown larger, their builders have worked to beef up the structures to accommodate massive amounts of horsepower. At the same time, they've been experimenting with strakes, steps, and foils that can be welded onto the pontoon's running surfaces. The net result is increased speed, and though they're quite pricy (commonly eclipsing our self-imposed cost restrictions of this article) you can find trailerable pontoons like the Aqua Patio AP 250 XP, which can break 60 mph with a Yamaha F350 on the transom. Or the Harris Grand Mariner 250, which can blast past 63 mph thanks to a pair of 350-hp Mercury Verados.

In one documented case, a PlayCraft PowerToon Xtreme even broke the 100-mph mark, hitting 104 at the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout. True, the owner had added performance-enhancers like an 8.8-liter Dart block and twin Whipple superchargers. And no, we don't think the average pontooner should have any need or desire to go that fast. But if you do feel the need for speed, today's pontoons offer just as much capability as virtually any other type of boat.

Pontoon Boats

Pontoon boats have been one of the strongest segments of the marine market in recent years, and it's no wonder — these boats are amazingly comfortable, versatile, and easy to operate. They're equally at home on lakes, rivers, and coastal bays (with relatively small waves; many pontoon boats don't handle large waves particularly well). And though their boxy shape may look rather untraditional to the nautical eye, that same shape makes for a huge amount of deck space in comparison with V-bottom boats of the same LOA.

The Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 DLX is our top pick in this category. Don't let the name fool you: This pontoon is only minimally fishy, and the only fishing feature other than rod holders is a 9-gallon livewell that will work just fine as a stowage compartment. But this model does come with a bimini top, a forward console seat, two folding chairs, an aft L-lounger, interior courtesy lighting, a 20-hp Mercury outboard, and a single-axle trailer, for the eye-opening low price of $14,390. All the other small, inexpensive pontoons we looked at that came in under the $15K mark excluded the trailer or the engine — and trailer-boating without either of these two features is extremely boring. Added bonus: The 16 DLX comes with an impressive 10-year warranty, which is far better than the warranty on many boats that cost twice as much.

Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 DLX

Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 DLX

LOA: 16'0" | Beam: 7'1" | Weight: 1,090 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 6.6 gal. | Price: $14,390

There aren't many other pontoons on the market that come in below this price cutoff, but the Qwest Edge 7514 CR does make the mark. The Lowe Ultra 160 Cruise does as well, but it has a short list of standard features that excludes the trailer, stereo system, and courtesy lighting and, realistically outfitted, will cost a bit more.

We're betting you didn't think you could get a 25-footer for under $25,000. We didn't either, until we came across the Lowe SS250 RFL. For providing a shocking size without one iota of sticker shock, the SS250 RFL is the clear winner in this category.

Pontoon boats are known as party barges, and this boat has everything needed for a waterborne shindig: 15 person capacity, two bow loungers, a chaise lounge, an L-couch (it really is a couch, not a seat), a Jensen MS30 Bluetooth stereo with two speakers, a bimini top, a pedestal table, and drink holders. Lots and lots of drink holders.

Lowe SS250 RFL

Lowe SS250 RFL

LOA: 25'7" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 1,940 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 28 gal. | Price: $21,497

Note that the trailer isn't included in the MSRP, and getting one pushes its price tag close to the $25,000 cutoff, but otherwise, the SS250 RFL is fairly well equipped. One more caveat: The stock engine is a mere 25-hp. For many pontooners who do their boating on inland lakes and rivers, jogging speed is plenty fast, and this will be enough power. If you want to get up on plane and travel more than a few miles, however, you'll want to upgrade.

What other choices are out there? Boaters who can't take the slowpoke speeds of 25 horses on a 25-footer will want to trade in the LOA for more power; they should look at a boat like the Princecraft Vectra 21, which posts a similar MSRP with 150 horses on the transom. Another option would be the Cypress Cay Seabreeze 210, with a 115-hp outboard.

In the pontoon-boat world, $50K gets you some serious juice, and we found the Bennington 22GL the juiciest. With a 140-hp Suzuki four-stroke and Bennington's Sport Performance System — which includes an under-deck wave shield, lifting strakes, full-length keels, and a third center tube — you'll see speeds in the low 40s. Yes, that engine and performance package does put us slightly over the mark, but why argue over a few bucks when spending $50,000? Besides, this model goes the distance when it comes to luxury, with such touches as pillow-top upholstery, a pop-up privacy enclosure for use with a portable MSD or as a changing room, a four-step boarding ladder, and a bimini top with a boot.

Bennington 22GL

Bennington 22GL

LOA: 24'0" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 2,384/3,120 lb. (without/with Sport Performance System) | Fuel Capacity: 24.5/54 gal. (without/with Sport Performance System) | Price: $40,107/$52,097 (without/with Sport Performance System and 140-hp Suzuki outboard)

We also need to call attention to some of Bennington's construction techniques. Cross-members are on 16-inch centers, while those of many competitors are on 24-inch centers. Cleats and corner casings are stainless steel, while many other builders use aluminum or even nylon. And electrical connectors are of the waterproof, sealed Deutsch variety. You can feel the quality difference as this boat runs through the water: Many pontoons feel loose underfoot, as though one tube is trying to go to port while the other is trying to go to starboard. And quite often you hear endless rattles and vibrations from the aluminum fence, gate latches, and bimini supports. But these aren't problems on the Bennington.

Other pontoons that run in similar waters are the Harris Solstice 220 and the Manitou 23 SES.

Spending $100,000 on a pontoon boat sounds like a lot — and it is — but there are plenty of premium pontoons that offer large sizes, rather extreme performance, and total luxury. The boat that sets itself apart from the crowd, however, is the Marker One M25. Virtually every pontoon boat has marine-plywood decks; the decks on the M25 are entirely fiberglass. Virtually every other pontoon boat has aluminum fences ringing the boat; this one has all fiberglass. Virtually every other pontoon boat has rotomolded furniture bases; this one has all fiberglass. And virtually every other pontoon boat has frame-and-fabric pop-up changing room/head compartments; this one has a rigid fiberglass swing-up head compartment with folding doors.

Marker One M25

Marker One M25

LOA: 25'9" | Beam: 9'3" | Weight: 5,520 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 55 gal. | Price: $96,345

Marker One is the only builder to combine a molded fiberglass topsides with the pontoon hulls, and out on the water it makes a huge difference. There are no creaks, groans, or rattles, which are commonplace on most pontoon boats. Seat bases, the entertainment centers, and the helm console all feel more firmly fixed to the boat's structure. And though it may be mere looks, the boat's gelcoated sides are slicker and glossier than any aluminum finish. The boat's detail work lives up to the promise of its exterior visual appeal, too, with touches like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a stainless-steel framed windshield, and illuminated switch panels.

Two downsides to the fiberglass topsides: First, the interior seating arrangement is what it is, and you can't choose the placement of different loungers, chairs, and settees as you can with most pontoon boats. Second, the fiberglass is quite weighty and thus requires more power to attain the speeds of some other pontoons. With the standard F200, you'll see speeds in the 30s, which many pontoons of the same LOA can attain with 50 fewer horses. If you're willing to break our price cap by a few thousand dollars, upgrading to a 300-hp Verado will take top-end speeds into the 40s and add a lot of zing to your day on the lake.

While there aren't other fiberglass-topsides pontoons to comparison-shop against the Marker One, the Harris Crowne DL 250 is another high- end luxury pontoon with slick, unbroken sides. And some major parts on the Aqua Patio 250 WB (such as the console and furniture bases) are constructed from fiberglass.

Fishing Frenzy

Lowrance HDS 7 Gen3 homescreen

While the range of fishing boats is so vast that it's hard to nail down specific trends or developments that affect all of the available genres, it's possible to point to one development that's had some impact on how all anglers use their fishing boats: the advancements in fishfinder technology. While fishfinders used to look only down, they now look out to the sides. While they used to make blips and blobs, they can now paint shockingly detailed pictures of the structure below; wrecks, roadbeds, submerged trees, and the like are now completely distinguishable. And most recently, 3D fishfinding has become a reality.

The real surprise, however, may be just how affordable all this fishfinding technology really is. Whether you're looking at boats in the $15K, $25K, $50K, or $100K range, it's a sure bet that the fishfinder you can afford to put on it will be surprisingly advanced. The Humminbird Helix 5 included as a standard feature on our least expensive fishing boat pick, for example, has a 5-inch color 800- by 400-pixel LCD screen and puts out 400 watts of power. Add a mere $100 to the cost, and you get a GPS/chartplotter built in. Just $50 more expands the screen from 5 inches to 7.

Even making the leap to 3D modeling is relatively inexpensive, with the Lowrance HDS-7 Gen3, a 3D module, and transducer going for about $2,250. Five short years ago, anglers paid a whole lot more to get a whole lot less.

Fishing Boats

The world of trailerable fishing boats is massive, with literally thousands of choices ranging from species-specific boats to general-purpose boats in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and construction materials. Yet for many anglers, the choice is actually made easier by the type of fishing they do. A bass aficionado, for example, doesn't need to look beyond bass boats. A dedicated redfish angler living along the Gulf Coast will almost certainly be most interested in bay boats. And offshore anglers will gravitate toward large center-consoles.

To focus on highly specified models would greatly reduce the number of trailer-boaters who would find our top picks useful, and for this reason, we're going to stick with generalists: the boats you or I could use for chasing largemouth bass on one day, then striped bass the next. Or maybe it would be trout today and sea trout tomorrow. You get the picture.

Thanks to the popularity of simple utilitarian aluminum fishing boats, anglers have a huge number of options even at this low price point. And the field is amazingly competitive; five models within a few hundred dollars of each other vied for the pole position. But we narrowed the field down to just one: the Lund 1600 Rebel, because this boat delivers everything you need to pull away from the dealership and go directly to your favorite hotspot, all at a very low cost.

Lund 1600 Rebel

Lund 1600 Rebel

LOA: 16'5" | Beam: 6'5" | Weight: 710 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 6 gal. | Price: $13,225

Beyond the boat, motor, and trailer, prerequisites for most anglers are going to be rod stowage, a livewell, a bow-mounted electric trolling motor prewiring, and a fishfinder. The Lund comes outfitted with all of these must-haves, as well as features like vinyl flooring, carpeted raised decks, three fishing-seat bases, and a side console with a relatively tall windshield — all for $1,000 below our budget cap. That console is a big deal, too. Many boats in this price range are steered with tillers, which means the captain doesn't get any protection whatsoever. And many that do have consoles offer tiny wind deflectors that are almost irrelevant.

This deal also includes a 40-horse Mercury outboard, which is notably more potent than the 20-hp and 30-hp powerplants included with most packages in this price class. While 20 horses may sound like enough for a 16-foot aluminum boat weighing a mere 710 pounds, when you get a couple of husky buddies and gear aboard, it'll struggle to get on plane. No such worries with the 40 on the transom.

We note that the Lund's hatches have simple pulls and don't dog down. And we're not thrilled with the reboarding ladder, which is a two-step model of nylon strap; it should be more robust. These complaints aside, this is a turnkey fishing machine at a price virtually any trailer-boater can afford. Closely competitive is the AlumaCraft Escape 165 CS, the Tracker Pro Guide V-16 SC, and the Princecraft Resorter DLX SC.

In this category, the Mako Pro Skiff 19 CC is a clear winner because it's small enough to fish shallows and protected lakes and bays, seaworthy enough to head out into open water, and performs well beyond its means. Mako's Inverted V hull (think of a powercat hull with a narrow tunnel and a third, smaller V running down the middle) eats up chop and also enhances stability. Like a cat, it compresses an air/water slurry to cushion the blows and help produce lift.

Mako Pro Skiff 19 CC

Mako Pro Skiff 19 CC

LOA: 19'4" | Beam: 7'9" | Weight: 1,900 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 27 gal. | Price: $21,995

Although it may be difficult to quantify, when we first ran this hull we felt it reduced wave impacts by around 20 percent to 25 percent in comparison with an average monohull of a similar size and weight. Meanwhile, unlike many price-conscious packages, the Mako gives you a stock 90-hp Mercury that has more than enough juice. It'll provide top-end speeds in the neighborhood of 40 mph and will cruise in the mid- to upper 20s.

Though the Inverted V's ride and stability both exceed expectations, there are, of course, some downsides to this design. The boat turns flat instead of banking, and trim range is reduced.

But these are small prices to pay. Along with the unusual hull design and that potent 90-hp outboard, you also get a welded, tube-framed, hot-dipped galvanized trailer. The list of standard fishing features is well above par, too, including a 25-gallon livewell with a high-speed pickup, an 85-quart helm cooler seat, raised fore and aft casting decks, and six vertical flush-mounted rodholders. The one item not included that we feel is a must is the bow-mounted electric trolling motor. But you can add that for $1,625 without busting the budget. Comparison shoppers definitely will want to investigate boats like the Key Largo 180 CC and the Bayliner Element F18.

At this price point, is it possible to get a boat that's incredibly rugged, capable of handling both inshore and offshore runs, and comes fully equipped for targeting just about any species? Robalo says yes with the R222, our top pick in this price range. Robalos are built with Kevlar reinforcement, composite cores, poured ceramic transoms, encapsulated closed-cell foam, vinylester resins, tinned-copper wiring with Deutch-style waterproof connectors, chrome-plated stainless-steel fasteners, and 36-ounce vinyl (not the standard 28-ounce vinyl). In short, these boats are built like tanks but priced like Jeeps. You can spend a lot of time looking for another 22-foot center-console that's this well built, but you'll fail to find one.

Robalo R222

Robalo R222

LOA: 21'6" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 3,700 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 90 gal. | Price: $41,395

On this type of fishing machine, a T-top is a feature most of us will want, so add $3,622 to the MSRP. Beyond that, the boat's well equipped in stock form, including a 15-gallon livewell, hydraulic tilt steering, a four-speaker Bluetooth stereo system, six vertical rodholders, four gunwale-mounted rodholders, under-gunwale rod racks, a portable MSD for the console compartment, cockpit­coaming bolsters, a raw-water washdown, and a three-step telescopic boarding ladder.

Wait a sec. What doesn't the R222 come with? Not much; the options list is shockingly brief. You could upgrade the standard F150 Yamaha outboard to a 200-hp model, but we'd say it's not necessary. The 150 gets you a top-end speed right around 40 mph and a cruising speed of 30 mph, and the 200 only bumps these numbers up by 3 or 4 mph.

Note: The R222 doesn't come packaged with a trailer. Fortunately, even after adding a T-top, there's plenty of wiggle room left in the budget to pay for one. Close competitors include the Cobia 220CC, the Sportsman Open 212, and the Sea Born LX22-CC; check them out.

If you spend the big bucks, you want the big capabilities, and the Pathfinder 2600 HPS delivers. Yes, it's officially marketed as a bay boat, but we spent an entire day fishing offshore on the 2600 HPS in 4-foot swells and found it eminently capable of handling open waters and large waves. Sure, it's a whopping 26 feet long, but it can still float in a mere 16 inches of water and creep into the backcountry creeks and cuts where the redfish thrive. Yes, it's a big boat to power with a single engine, but (in no small part thanks to a twin-step hull design) the stock 300-hp Yamaha F300 nets a top end of almost 60 mph and a cruising speed beyond 40 mph. Run to the canyons, run to the mangroves, or run to anything in between and the Pathfinder 2600 HPS will prove itself capable.

Pathfinder 2600 HPS

Pathfinder 2600 HPS

LOA: 26'2" | Beam: 8'10" | Weight: 3,350 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 78 gal. | Price: $88,965

Most anglers will love the fact that this boat is geared 100-percent toward fishing, with a 48-gallon aft livewell and a 15-gallon well in the bow, integrated tackle-stowage trays, a cast-net locker, a raw-water washdown, and the like. But this single-minded focus does lead to one potential knock: Despite its expansive size, the 2600 HPS doesn't make room for a head inside the console. To get that — and a number of other family-friendly features — you'll have to opt for the TRS version, which costs around $10K more than the HPS. And like many other boats of this size and nature, the trailer isn't part of the package. Plan on adding several thousand dollars to the MSRP to get a road-ready rig.

Examining Price vs. Cost

Hang out long enough at a boat show, and you'll hear a tire-kicker exclaim to his or her spouse or just a random passerby, "Who pays this much for a boat?" Usually he or she is standing in the vicinity of a flashy center-console or a luxury-filled motoryacht. And the answer is, well, no one does.

When shopping for boats, some consumers fall into the trap of equating the price of a boat with its cost. But the true cost of a boat is the difference between what you pay for it, and the money you get when you sell it, plus the operational and finance costs of ownership — not what it says on the sticker.

Most of us won't ever keep a boat for anything close to its lifetime, on average trading up or in within five to seven years. And to be fair, when you're trying to buy a boat, the last thing on your mind is the day you'll sell it. But sell it you will. So it pays (literally) to think about resale value before you buy.

Price is just one factor in the cost equation, and in fact, it's easy to envision a scenario in which a boat with a lower price ends up costing you more. We'll assume for the moment you're comparing two boats of roughly equal size, so most of those operational costs are so similar as to be a wash, and you can write them off as sunk and ignore them for comparison purposes.

Imagine a $90,000 model from a well-respected builder that holds its value very well. In a few years, you might be able to get $70,000 for selling such a boat. But also consider a $74,000 model from a less-desirable builder. In a few years, you might get $50,000 for selling that boat. So if you're comparison shopping between the two, you might think you're "saving" $16,000 when, in fact, you've cost yourself $4,000 in resale value.

Of course, it's not this straightforward. Most of us finance our boats, and the monthly payment on a cheaper boat is likely to be lower. But there are also price breaks at which the interest rate available on a loan is lower for a higher dollar amount than it is for the lesser amount. In fact, one online loan calculator showed that the monthly payment on a $74,000 loan would be $566. But on a $90,000 loan, it would be $563. Confused yet? Loans on larger dollar amounts can also often be stretched over a longer time span. The second loan is a 20-year note versus a 15-year note on the first.

I hope by now you're convinced you can't tell a boat's cost by the price on the sticker. But what can you do to compare costs effectively when boat shopping? Arm yourself with these three things before you head to a show or dealership:

1. Get an idea of the depreciation rate for common models from the brands you're interested in. The easy way to do this is to use BUCValu or NADA Guides online tools and compare across several years for the same boat model. Prices that are closer together are good. A larger spread is bad.

2. Research the terms and conditions for a boat loan online, paying special attention to interest-rate breaks and the length of available terms for your price range. Once you've done that, plug some specific scenarios into an online loan-calculator tool like the one available at BoatUS.com/BoatLoans .

3. Plan to walk away. Passion often trumps reason in boat sales. Walking away allows you time to factor in costs for insurance, maintenance, and storage, and such finance quirks as whether the model you're considering can be written off as a second home on taxes; then you'll have a realistic picture of the ownership costs of each boat you're considering. Once you know the numbers, you can let passion guide your decision, but at least you'll walk in with your eyes open.

— Michael Vatalaro

A Word About Warranties

For most people, the biggest advantage of buying a new boat is the warranty that comes with it. Simply put, the warranty is the manufacturer's promise to stand behind its products by providing service and repairs after purchase.

Because marine warranties vary widely in their coverage, compare them before you buy. Look for multiyear warranties for hull and engines, as well as coverage for osmotic blistering — a common problem on fiberglass boats that's expensive to fix. Find out whether the warranties transfer to subsequent owners — a crucial determinant of resale value.

Written warranties must be made available to you before you buy. New boats usually come with separate warranty coverage from the engine and boat manufacturers as well as the makers of other major components. Buying from a dealer who services both the boat and the engine can save a lot of frustration down the road. Make sure you fill out warranty registrations to ensure you'll get service when you need it.

— Charles Fort

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Lenny Rudow

New Boats, Fishing & Electronics Editor, BoatUS Magazine

Top tech writer and accomplished sports fisherman, BoatUS Magazine Contributing Editor Lenny Rudow has written seven practical boating books, won 30 awards from Boating Writers International — many for his marine electronics articles – and two for excellence from the Outdoor Writers Association of America. He judges the NMMA Innovation Awards, and is Angler in Chief at FishTalk, his own Chesapeake-based publication. A great teacher and inspirational writer, Lenny hosts many of BoatUS Magazine’s very-popular how-to videos, which can be found on the BoatUS YouTube channel, or at BoatUS.com

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Yachting Monthly

  • Digital edition

Yachting Monthly cover

Best yachts of 2022: launches and announcements

Sam Fortescue

  • Sam Fortescue
  • May 13, 2022

While COVID-19 might have cancelled boat shows, there are plenty of new launches to desire. Sam Fortescue rounds up the best yachts of 2022 so far

Best new boats 2022: The Contest 49CS is billed as an aft cockpit boat. Credit: Contest Yachts

The Contest 49CS is billed as an aft cockpit boat. Credit: Contest Yachts

The best yachts of 2022 so far.

The COVID-19 pandemic has meant that for two years, new boat launches have been few and far between.

But now boat builders are back in force and have recently announced a range of new launches from 30ft yachts for coastal and offshore sailing to fast cruisers and catamarans which are being billed as sustainable.

Sam Fortescue picks his favourites.

Garcia Exploration 60

A render of the new Garcia Exploration 60 with a cream hull

True to brand, the 60 is a real expedition yacht

Nearing the end of a long build in Normandy, the flagship of Garcia’s Exploration range should be in the water late in the spring.

Built in gleaming aluminium, this is a profoundly capable centreboard explorer, with a price tag to match.

Jimmy Cornell provided input and profile for the first in this range, a 45-footer.

The saloon of the Garcia Exploration 60 with plenty of windows

The go-anywhere yacht is luxurious below

A raised saloon with 270º views, well protected doghouse cockpit, aft gantry and cutter rig were integral features of this go-anywhere yacht.

The Exploration 60 takes the concept to a more luxurious conclusion. Isabelle Racoupeau’s interior makes the most of the vast full-beam cabin aft, with elegant cabinetry and neutral upholstery.

There’s also an option for a forward owner cabin with walk-in dressing room. Either way, there is room for a dedicated technical space – a workshop or office, perhaps.

Specifications

Price: TBC LOA: 18.27m (59ft 11in) LWL: 16.77m (55ft) Cabins: 2-3 Beam: 5.40m (17ft 9in) Draught: 1.50-3.65m (4ft 11in-12ft) Displacement: 35,000kg (77,161Lb) Contact: Garcia Yachts Tel: +33 2 33 43 22 20 Website: www.garciaychts.com

X-Yachts X56

Three people sailing the new yachts - the X56

A reaching sail can be set from the integral bowsprit

Though first launched in 2021, we haven’t had a chance to see much of the latest design from X-Yachts.

The X56 is the brand’s flagship, designed for serious cruising.

Layup is with glass and epoxy resin, vacuum-infused and cured for 24 hours at high temperatures for optimum stiffness and minimum weight.

The white hull and rig of the new yachts - the X56

A light and powerful hull and rig

Rod rigging is standard, and there’s the option of a carbon mast as well as a roller-furling boom.

A fixed bowsprit provides room for a reaching sail on a second headstay and a gennaker.

The interior is all delightfully clean Scandi lines in a choice of oak or teak, as you’d hope, although there are lots of other options here for the finish.

Choose from an open or closed galley and enjoy the large chart table and flexible aft cabins.

Price: £1,063,900 ex-VAT LOA: 16.58m (54ft 5in) LWL: 14.94m (49ft) Cabins: 4 Beam: 4.89m (16 ft1in) Draught: 2.50-3.30m (8ft 2in-10ft 10in) Displacement: 18,800kg (41,446Lbs) Contact: X-Yachts GB Tel: +44 (0)23 8045 3377 Website: www.x-yachts.com

Contest 49CS

The high-quality build uses one-shot vacuum infusion. Credit: Contest Yachts

The high-quality build uses one-shot vacuum infusion. Credit: Contest Yachts

The new 49CS is only the second in the range to depart from Contest’s tried-and-tested centre cockpit design – following its entry-level 42-footer.

Billed as an aft cockpit boat, the 49CS is really more of a hybrid design, with a long aft deck but sheltered helm stations well in board and amazing height in the aft cabins below.

Contest yachts are known for their high-quality build, and the 49CS is no exception, using one-shot vacuum infusion.

At more than 20 tonnes it is not a light boat, but it would make an excellent base for a round-the-world trip, with its forward cockpit and tender garage in the transom.

There is exception headroom below deck. Credit: Contest Yachts

There is exception headroom below deck. Credit: Contest Yachts

Being a Dutch-built yacht, headroom is generous, and the interior styling by Wetzel Brown has a sophisticated feel to it, with lots of textures, light coloured woods and neutral upholstery.

The saloon is semi-raised under the deckhouse, giving exterior views from the dining table.

A master cabin fills the forward third of the boat, and there are two double or twin cabins aft.

The galley lies down some steps on the port side.

Contest is unique in that its boats are certified by Lloyd’s Register.

Price: €1,198,000 ex-VAT LOA: 15.20m (49ft 10in) Cabins: 3 Beam: 4.90m (16 ft1in) Draught: 2.35m (7ft 9in) Displacement: 21,500kg (47,399Lbs) Contact: Contest Yachts Tel: +31 227 543 644 Website: www.contestyachts.com

Best new yachts under £500,000

The Pointer 30 has a large sailplan totalling 46m2. Credit: Pointer Yachts

The Pointer 30 has a large sailplan totalling 46m2. Credit: Pointer Yachts

Niche Dutch shipyard Jachtwerf Heeg is expanding its successful Pointer range with the launch of a new 30-footer.

It is the largest Pointer to date, and the largest for the yard, which has specialised for more than 60 years in building small open boats and race boats for local conditions in GRP . The Pointer brand launched in 2014.

The boat has modern hull lines with a plumb bow, a bowsprit and decent interior space.

It has been designed for coastal and offshore sailing, with a large sailplan totalling 46m2 upwind and a shallow draught.

Best new boats of 2022: The options list includes all the usual cruising kit. Credit: Pointer Yachts

The options list includes all the usual cruising kit. Credit: Pointer Yachts

There is room for eight in the cockpit, but the boat is also designed for singlehanded sailing . Choose between a tiller or a wheel on a tilting pedestal.

There is a bathing platform aft, a comfy saloon, a long bench and a ‘coffee bar’.

It has a fresh-water system, a fridge and a gas hob.

There is a separate heads and a V-berth in the focsle, plus two quarter berths off the saloon.

Price: from €150,000 inc VAT and sails LOA: 9.20m (30ft 2in) Cabins: 1 (4 berths) Beam: 2.90m (9ft 6in) Draught: 1.25m/1.75m (4ft 1in/5ft 9in) Displacement: 2,400kg (5,291Lb) Contact: Jachtwerf Heeg Tel: +31 (0) 515 44 22 37 Website: www.jachtwerf-heeg.nl

With a low displacement for her size, the E6 will be very interactive when sailing. Credit: Elan

With a low displacement for her size, the E6 will be very interactive when sailing. Credit: Elan

Hull one of this new 50ft model has just been launched in the yard’s home waters of the Slovenian Adriatic.

She is the largest of the performance cruising E-line, with a new hull designed by Rob Humphreys.

His design includes an aft chine for extra volume and stability.

‘She will have a real turn of speed in comparison to the GT6, even though they share some similar initial characteristics,’ says UK dealer Tim Norris at Boatpoint.

‘The E6 will have a low displacement for her size, so will be interactive when sailing. She has been set up like all Elans for relatively easy shorthanded sailing .’

Twin rudders aft contribute to her excellent directional stability. Credit: Elan

Twin rudders aft contribute to her excellent directional stability. Credit: Elan

The lay-up uses e-Glass and vinylester, vacuum-infused for strength and light weight.

There is a fixed bowsprit for launching big sails and twin rudders aft for optimum efficiency on the heel.

It all combines to reduce the tendency to broach and pitch while giving excellent directional stability.

Below deck, Pininfarina has tried to create an enticing but practical interior, which Norris describes as ‘a little more minimalist compared the GT6, with a fairly traditional layout’.

The styling is in natural oak veneer with neutral grey upholstery.

There is the choice of three or four cabins – two doubles aft and a master cabin with a semi-island bed in the focsle, or a V-berth forward and bunks instead of storage space.

There is a decent L-shaped galley amidships.

Price: £460,000 inc VAT LOA: 15.30m (50 ft 2in) LWL: 13.68m (44ft 11in) Cabins: 3-4 Beam: 4.49m (14ft 9in) Draught: 2.80m (9ft 2in) Displacement: 11,250kg (24,802Lb) Contact: Boatpoint Hamble Tel: +44 2382 120 000 Website: www.boatpoint.co.uk

The long bowsprit allows for two headsails to be flown at once. Credit: RM

The 1380 will be RM’s largest cruiser. Credit: RM

France’s RM famously builds its yachts in plywood and epoxy, and claims that the new 1380 will be the largest such cruiser ever built.

The hull is designed by Marc Lombard, with racy lines and blue-water capabilities.

She should be a fast yacht when she hits the water, with a rig that allows a downwind sail and a second headstay, thanks to the long bowsprit.

The boat has twin rudders and underwater choices including bilge keels and a high-performance lifting keel.

Best new yachts of 2022: The transom conceals a bathing platform. Credit: RM

The transom conceals a bathing platform. Credit: RM

Below, the interior is a matter of choice, but typically minimal.

Various configurations are possible, but the Owner’s version puts a large cabin in the forepeak.

There are two heads/shower rooms and a semi-horseshoe galley to port.

The first hull is due to be built in April 2022.

Price: €357,000 ex-VAT LOA: 13.30m (43ft 8in) LWL: 12.44m (40ft 10in) Cabins: 2-4 Beam: 4.53m (14ft 10in) Draught: 1.45m-3.35m (4ft 9in/11ft) Displacement: 9,800kg (21,605Lb) Contact: Parkstone Bay Yachts Tel: +44 (0)1202 724917 Website: www.parkstonebayyachts.co.uk

A J/45 boat sailing

Stiff, light and fast, but built for offshore rather than round the cans

J/Boats are renowned as the staple of many club racing circuits, but the latest launch is a different beast altogether – a 45ft blue-water cruiser with all the trimmings.

Built in e-Glass and vinylester sandwich construction, it is a staggeringly light hull with a high ballast ratio that promises stiff handling in heavy seas.

With a decent spread of canvas, the J/45 is reported to sail well in as little as 6 knots of breeze.

J Boats is keen to underline how the rig is set up for easy tuning and reefing , so that the same sail combination is also perfectly manageable in 20 knots, with no sail change required.

Down below on the J/45 with windows and light wood

More comfort than other J-Boats

I suspect this is something most blue-water sailors would expect.

However, there is no doubt this is a capable boat, with lots of handy options, including a bathing platform.

The elegant interior is designed by Isabelle Racoupeau with three choices of joinery: white oak, teak or walnut.

You can choose to convert the third cabin aft into a technical storage space accessed through the heads and from on deck.

Price: £414,888 ex-VAT LOA: 13.85m (45ft 5in) LWL: 12.56m (41ft 2in) Cabins: 2-3 Beam: 4.25m (13ft 11in) Draught: 2.30m (7ft 7in) Displacement: 9,900kg (21,825Lb) Contact: Key Yachting Tel: +44 (0)23 8045 5669 Website: www.keyyachting.com

Continues below…

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Best new catamarans in 2022

The XCS 14 displays the brand's key features such as a low boom and a forward-stepped mast. Credit: Excess Catamarans

The XCS 14 displays the brand’s key features such as a low boom and a forward-stepped mast. Credit: Excess Catamarans

Groupe Beneteau continues to expand its Excess catamaran venture, aimed at younger owners who want a fun connection to the water, without a sky-high price tag.

VPLP has drawn on its ocean racing experience, designing asymmetric hulls, foam-sandwich hull layup and higher bridgedeck clearance to reduce slamming.

A towering square-topped main and an overlapping genoa round out a fairly generous 118m2 of upwind sail area, although bear in mind this is a heavy boat.

Helm stations are pushed out to the quarters at deck level. Credit: Excess Catamarans

Helm stations are pushed out to the quarters at deck level. Credit: Excess Catamarans

Semi-island double berths at the aft end of each hull give a touch of luxury, and the whole starboard hull can be devoted to the owner, with a walk-in dressing room in the bow.

Simple but attractive interior styling has been well executed by Nauta.

Price: TBC LOA: 13.34m (43ft 9in) Cabins: 3-4 Beam: 7.87m (25ft 10in) Draught: 1.48m (4ft 10in) Displacement: Max 18,300kg (40,344Lb) Contact: Ancasta Tel: +44 (0)2380 450 000 Website: www.ancasta.com

Lagoon's sustainable technology uses hemp fibre instead of glass and biosourced polyester resins. Credit: Lagoon

Lagoon’s sustainable technology uses hemp fibre instead of glass and biosourced polyester resins. Credit: Lagoon

Due to be unveiled at the Grande Motte Multihull show from 20-24 April 2022, the Lagoon 51 is still partly shrouded in secrecy.

The shipyard has billed it as a more sustainable yacht, with better on-board circulation and ‘great fluidity’, which sounds like a byword for more open spaces.

Like all recent Lagoons, it has been designed by the multihull experts at VPLP, who had this to say about the boat: ‘We designed the Lagoon 51 as a perfect synthesis of the modernity of the shapes and the sail plan, with living space on deck and inside that is unequalled on a boat this size.’

What we can already tell from early renderings is that the flybridge uses much more space on the coachroof than the previous Lagoon 50.

This includes a C-shaped lounge with a drop-down table as well as twin sunpads.

The helm station is positioned centrally behind the mast. Credit: Lagoon

The helm station is positioned centrally behind the mast. Credit: Lagoon

A dedicated forward cockpit gives great lounging up front, with deep sofas, a table and the option of teak underfoot.

Renderings appear to show an opening saloon window for passing supplies out to those using this space.

A new-generation interior dispenses with the mast beam down the middle of the saloon, by positioning it further forward.

Acres of glass makes this a luminous space, with an L-shaped galley to port and a raised dining area forward which benefits from the views.

Lagoon is driving for sustainability, using hemp fibre, Alpi wood and offering 3.4kW of solar panels.

She is even delivered with biodegradable cleaning products!

Price: TBC LOA: 15.35m (50ft 4in) Cabins: 3-6 Beam: 8.1m (26ft 7in) Draught: 1.38m (4ft 6in) Contact: Ancasta Tel: +44 2380 450 000 Website: www.ancasta.com

60% of the aluminium for the hull comes from recycled material. Credit: Vaan

60% of the aluminium for the hull comes from recycled material. Credit: Vaan

One of a crop of new catamaran brands coming through at the moment, Vaan is distinguished by its obsessive focus on combining performance with sustainability.

Its first model, the R4, was launched before Christmas and will be on show at La Grande Motte in April 2022.

The hull is made from aluminium, up to 60% of which is sourced from recycled metal obtained from old window frames and road signs.

Vaan founder Igor Kluin is absolutely clear that this is a more sustainable option than building in non-recyclable GRP.

Decking is crafted from cork, while the modern, uncluttered interior makes use of plant-based Lyocell fabric and a leather alternative made from pineapple leaves.

Plant-based materials are used in the interior. Credit: Vaan

Plant-based materials are used in the interior. Credit: Vaan

The exterior design is different to other cats, too. Kluin calls it a ‘cabriolet’ because there is only a narrow band of solid coachroof over the cockpit, leaving the rest open.

A fabric bimini can be quickly installed if further protection is needed, but the principle is to make this space as open as possible.

Helm stations are moved to the two well-protected quarters.

Propulsion comes from two 10kW Torqeedo electric pod drives, hooked up to either 20kWh or 40kWh of lithium-ion batteries .

Vaan claims that this is equivalent to 40hp combustion engines.

Under sail, the drives regenerate power to recharge the batteries.

Price: €429,000 ex-VAT LOA: 12.80m (42ft) LWL: 12.80m (42ft) Cabins: 2-4 Beam: 7.06m (23ft 2in) Draught: 1.35m (4ft 5in) Displacement: 10,900kg (26,235Lb) Contact: Vaan Yachts Tel: +31 (0)85 071 9999 Website: www.vaanyachts.nlv

Fountaine-Pajot 51

A larger-than-average flybridge houses the helmstation. Credit: Fountaine-Pajot

A larger-than-average flybridge houses the helmstation. Credit: Fountaine-Pajot

A capable, well-designed catamaran from the La Rochelle-based builder, the new 51 features a deck design that makes the interior saloon and exterior cockpit work together.

The glass panels of the rear wall of the saloon slide completely to either side, while the deck is flush, connecting the galley directly with the eight-person saloon table.

The helmstation is bulkhead-mounted, with a larger-than-ever flybridge set around it.

All the control lines return to the three winches here, for easy handling.

And the coachroof is inlaid with a generous 2kW of solar panels.

The interior saloon and exterior cockpit are designed to join seamlessly. Credit: Fountaine-Pajot

The interior saloon and exterior cockpit are designed to join seamlessly. Credit: Fountaine-Pajot

There’s also a foredeck lounge, private cabin exits and a lowering aft platform.

Configuration below is flexible, with the possibility of four to six double cabins with ensuite heads.

In the Maestro version, the entire port hull can be dedicated to the owner’s accommodation, while the double Maestro puts twin VIP cabins aft in each hull.

The navigation area lies right by the aft doors of the saloon, where it’s within easy reach of the helm.

Price: €865,311 ex-VAT LOA: 15.54m (51ft) Cabins: 4-6 Beam: 8.08m (26ft 7in) Draught: 1.3m (4ft 3in) Displacement: 18,100kg (39,903Lb) Contact: MiCats Tel: +44 (0)1489 573 059 Website: www.multihull.co.uk

Privilege Signature 650

A render of a Privilege 650 render with a gold hull and white topsides

Serious multihull luxury, for serious money

Replacing the old Series 640 catamaran, Privilege’s new Signature 650 features an all-new deck moulding and interior on a tried and tested hull shape from Marc Lombard.

The boat offers greater interior volumes, with two or three guest cabins as well as a skipper’s berth and a cavernous owner’s suite filling the space in the rostrum and the port bow.

Headroom is excellent, thanks to a higher deck moulding, which also now offers forward-facing windows in the owner’s cabin.

On the outside, this also creates a teak-decked lounge area forward of the enlarged saloon windows that is sheltered and private from the outside world.

There’s a gigantic flybridge with an enlarged C-lounge and an optional second helm station to port.

The back of a Privilege 650 catamaran with two sets of steps leading to the ocean

A hydraulic platform can lift a large tender

The cockpit beneath offers dining, sun beds and the option of a barbecue and fridge.

A redesigned hydraulic platform aft can raise an 800kg tender.

Affording the boat with a few extra centimetres on the rig has added 6m2 to the sail area, which now accounts for 232m2.

All the control lines are led back to the helm.

Price: €2.49m ex-VAT LOA: 21.25m (69ft 9in) Cabins: 4-5 Beam: 9.20m (30ft 2in) Draught: 1.85m (6ft 1in) Displacement: 37,000kg (81,157Lb) Contact: Inspiration Marine Tel: +44 (0)2380 457 008 Website: www.inspirationmarine.co.uk

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14 Great Pocket Cruisers in 2023

  • By Victor Tan
  • Updated: July 20, 2023

Pocket cruisers and mini yachts are generally vessels under 50 feet in length overall, and can include express cruiser designs, flybridge yachts as well as either monohull or catamaran hull forms. They are cruising boats easily handled by a small, or even shorthanded, crew. Pocket cruisers generally have wave-taming hull designs and have the ability to take on sporty seas, offer comfortable accommodations belowdecks with one or two staterooms for extended voyages, “homelike amenities,” and the ability to cruise as slowly or as quickly as an owner desires with inboard- and outboard-power options. These pocket-cruising boats have the range for longer voyages , can pull up in skinny water at the sandbar thanks to shallow drafts, and head over the horizon where cruising adventure awaits. Pocket cruisers are true multitasking yachts. When it comes to family and couples cruising, it’s hard to beat a well-built and well-equipped and pocket cruiser.

Best Cruising Boats Under 50-Feet

The following 14 pocket cruisers and mini yachts are all vessels we’ve seen, been aboard, and tested. They are listed in no particular order.

  • Hood 35 LM: high-tech, family-friendly pocket cruiser
  • Galeon Yachts 375 GTO: mid-size boat with plenty of below-deck space
  • Aquila 42: sleek power catamaran ready to entertain
  • Azimut Verve 42 : small, yet mighty yacht ready for open water
  • Hinckley Yachts 35: luxury picnic cruiser with range
  • Beneteau Gran Turismo 45: sleek cruising yacht with all the amenities
  • Solaris Power 48 Open: eye-catching power yacht with 360-degree views
  • Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS: luxury cruiser yacht with powerful outboard options
  • Back Cove 34O: modern outboard power combined with classic Downeast styling
  • Picnic Boat 40: speedy and fuel-efficient vessel with great looks
  • Aquila 36: comfortably seat up to 20 guests for fun on the salt
  • Boston Whaler 350 Realm: multitasker built for fishing and entertaining
  • MJM 35z: sporty, aesthetically pleasing, cruising-conscious features and elegant lines
  • Greenline 39: sturdy-looking lines and environmentally-friendly power

When Android co-founder, Rich Miner, wanted a new family-friendly pocket cruiser , he turned to a custom-penned C.W. Hood design and a Lyman-Morse-built 35-footer, which has a timeless Down East profile matched to seriously modern technology under the hood.

This yacht looks like a traditional, cold-molded Down East dayboat, but actually, it has everything, from Hamilton HJX Series water-jet drives to a planned Sea Machines autonomous command-and-control system . Top speed: 40-plus knots.

Quick Specifications

Galeon yachts 375 gto.

Even the remnants of Hurricane Ian, couldn’t dissuade the Galeon Yacht 375 GTO from its cruising mission. The small yacht’s wave-splitting hull form is paired to torque-filled 600 hp Mercury Verado outboards , giving this fun-in-the-sun boat a 47-knot top hop.

The 375 GTO is a speedster, to be sure, but it’s also so much more. Just about every aspect of the main deck seating is transformable and multifunction, from the aft seating to the alfresco dining abaft the helm, and beyond. It also has a family-size and eminently cruise-worthy belowdecks space for four guests, all while providing a foredeck entertaining lounge too.

The Galeon Yachts 375 GTO ticks all the boxes for an easy-to-handle and sporty cruiser.

Aquila 42 Yacht Power Catamaran

Following the success of its 44-, 54- and 70-foot power catamaran models, Aquila has launched the stable-as-a-table, owner-operator-ready Aquila 42 Yacht Power Catamaran .

The Aquila 42 is the entry point into the builder’s yacht line and is noteworthy for its ability to accommodate anywhere from a two- to four-stateroom layout, depending on the owner’s cruising requirements. There are alfresco spaces to manage the sunset cruise with friends and family, including a foredeck lounge area that can be accessed via centerline steps from the flybridge. The Aquila 42 is available with several Volvo Penta diesel-engine options .

Azimut Verve 42

Want to cruise from Florida to Bimini in about an hour? The Azimut Yachts Verve 42 can do that thanks, in part, to triple 450 hp Mercury Racing outboards and a hull designed to dice-and-slice a seaway. Top hop: 45 knots. The Verve 42 also has style for miles with a fine entry, raked hardtop, and a razorlike sheerline accented by sweeping hull glass from bow to stern. It’s striking.

With accommodation for a family of four, the Verve 42 is also solid under the hull tokeep everyone safe on those passages. The Verve 42’s hull is built of fiberglass and uses vinylester resins for blister protection. The yacht’s deck and hardtop are comprised of carbon fiber for strength without added weight. This all means that the Azimut Verve 42 is built to CE Classification Type A , making it suitable for sea voyages where winds can exceed 45 mph and seas to 13 feet.

Hinckley Yachts 35

The Hinckley Yachts 35 takes everything that yachtsmen like about this pedigreed-brand’s classic profile and infuses today’s modern outboard power to create 40 knots of sheer fun wrapped in sheer luxury.

This 35-foot Hinckley is built on a Michael-Peters-penned hull form with a fine entry, wider-than-average chines and a moderate deadrise. While the boat is built to sprint when desired, it’s also a relatively economical cruiser. For instance, a comfortable 24-knot cruise the Hinckley Yachts 35 has a 276-nautical-mile range.

It also has a tech-build thanks to vacuum-infused carbon-fiber composites and epoxy resin. An integrated interior structure is infused with the hull adding rigidity. The hull is then post-cured in an 80-foot oven, further strengthening the structure.

Beneteau Gran Turismo 45

The Beneteau Gran Turismo is the flagship of the builder’s four-model GT series, which also includes 32-, 36- and 41-foot models.

The Gran Turismo 45 ’s cruise-centric layout includes two staterooms and two heads belowdecks, as well as a galley down. There is also a dinette for meals and a settee for rainy-day lounging. Entertaining guests and enjoying the sun is the primary mission of the main deck.

Solaris Power 48 Open

The Solaris Power 48 Open was the first powerboat from this longtime builder known for its sailing yachts, ranging from 40 to 110 feet length overall. The Solaris Power 48 Open is notable for its wave-slicing plumb-bow design, high freeboard forward and 32-knot-plus speed. Power is twin 480 hp Volvo Penta IPS650 diesels.

The high freeboard keeps the deck dry and help creates sizable volume belowdecks with an average 6-foot-6-inch headroom. This enables real estate for either one or two staterooms. With the single-stateroom setup, there is a forepeak master stateroom while an L-shaped settee converts to sleeping accommodations for family or occasional guests. Interior wood options are oak or walnut.

Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS

Outboard-power cruising aficionados will appreciate the triple-engine options for the Cruisers Yachts 42 GLS . The 42 GLS we got aboard had the triple 400 hp Mercury Verados , which produced a top hop of 45 knots, but triple 450 hp Verados are available. Triple 350 hp Mercury Verados are the standard engine option. No matter the power arrangement, this express cruiser can easily be used for wakeboarding and tube towing. The 42 GLS is designed to handle the rough stuff too, with a fine entry and 21-degree transom deadrise.

For cruising enthusiasts, the 42 GLS has a master stateroom with an athwartships and a nearly queen-size berth, and the lower salon’s U-shaped dinette converts to a queen-size berth for the kids.

Back Cove 34O

Combining modern outboard power with classic Downeast styling, the Back Cove 34O touts award-winning standards with cruising in mind. The 34O is equipped with twin 300 hp Yamaha outboards, engines that allow the Newport International Boat Show’s 2018 Best Powerboat Under 35 Feet winner to travel up to 214 nautical miles at 24 knots on a 250-gallon fuel tank.

Belowdecks, the 34O has an island double berth and a split-head arrangement with the toilet to port and a separate shower stall to starboard. On the main deck, a U-shape dinette to port accommodates four or more guests on the Back Cove Yachts vessel. The 34O’s galley is equipped with a Cuisinart microwave, a two-burner Kenyon electric cooktop and a Vitrifrigo fridge and freezer.

Picnic Boat 40

Hinckley Yachts unveiled its first Picnic Boat more than two decades ago. Now, after two previous, sub-40-foot models, the Maine-based boatbuilder has developed its largest and most advanced model to date: the Picnic Boat 40.

Twin 480 hp Cummins diesel engines paired to twin Hamilton 322 jet drives propel the yacht to a 30-knot cruising speed and 34 knots on the pins. With optional twin 550 hp Cummins diesels, cruise and top-end speeds jump to 35 and 38 knots, respectively.

There is an L-shaped settee with a table and a wet bar on the main deck to port. The helm station is forward and to starboard with a benchseat for two. There is also a companion seat across from the helm. Belowdecks, there is 6-foot-2-inch headroom, and the dinette table drops to form a California-king berth for overnights and weekending.

Aquila Power Catamarans started its line with 44- and 48-footers, and now the builder’s Aquila 36 takes the line into the midsize market.

The 36 features a single, main-living area from bow to stern, helped in part by the vessel’s 14-foot, 7-inch beam. The boat can comfortably seat up to 20 guests for fun on the salt. Several Mercury Verado engine options are available for the Aquila 36, including twin 250-, 300- and 350-hp four-strokes. With the 350s, the Aquila has a top-end speed of 37 knots.

Other notable features include a fiberglass hardtop, a dinette, a cooktop, a fridge, a sink and a smokeless grill. Belowdecks, there are two staterooms with nearly queen-size berths, en suite heads and 6-foot-6-inch headroom in each.

Boston Whaler 350 Realm

From fishing and entertaining guests to diving and overnight cruising, Boston Whaler ‘s 350 Realm is a multitasker. And it’s fast, too. It’s powered with either triple 300 hp or triple 350 hp Mercury Verados. The 350 Realm can reach a top speed of 46 knots.

At the helm, two Raymarine displays provide vital navigation data. The captain can take in the displays’ view from a doublewide helm seat. There’s a flip-down platform for standing when needed and a footrest when desired.

There is a V-shaped berth that converts into a double berth with a filler cushion. The separated head has a VacuFlush MSD and a hot-and-cold shower. Owners also have the option to add a microwave and a flat-screen TV.

The MJM 35z can reach a top speed of 44 knots and a cruising speed of 33 knots on its optional 350 hp Mercury Verado outboards; twin 300 hp outboards are standard on this MJM Yachts vessel. Additionally, the 35z can travel up to 304 nautical miles on its 250-gallon fuel tank.

The 35z has a flush-deck layout and to port is space for an electric grill, a baitwell, a sink, an ice maker and a fridge. There are two Stidd helm seats—one for the helmsman and the other for a copilot—that rotate to face the rest of the seating aft. In the cabin is V-shaped seating forward that can be converted to a berth.

Owners also have the option of adding a Seakeeper 3 gyrostabilizer and a full-length Bimini top to shade the cockpit.

Greenline 39

Greenline Yachts ‘ vessels are aptly named for their environmentally friendly means of moving about; the Greenline 39 is no different. The Slovenian yacht manufacturer produces two types of this model: hybrid and solar.

If owners opt for the latter, the 39’s four solar panels atop the salon power all of the vessel’s systems for three hours. With the power of the sun, the 39 can achieve a max speed of 6.5 knots and a cruising speed of 4 knots. The hybrid type uses those same panels to help power a 220 hp Volvo Penta D3 with a Mahle electric-drive system. Owners have the option of replacing the standard engine with a 370 hp Yanmar 8LV diesel.

Belowdecks, scissor berths provide accommodations for long weekends.

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Sirena 48: Hybrid Version

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Best Bay Boats 2023

10 Best Bay Boats for 2023

best yacht for the money

Table of Contents

The popularity of center console bay boats has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years, and as a result, the 2023 model year is chock full of awesome choices. Some stand out because they’re exceptionally lethal fishing weapons, others make their mark with luxury touches, and some score points for being unusually affordable bay boats . For one reason or another, each of these 10 bay boats are the best and deserve top billing:

  • Boston Whaler 280 Dauntless
  • Bulls Bay 2000
  • Caymas 26 HB
  • Grady-White 281 CE
  • Pathfinder 2300 HPS
  • Ranger RB200
  • Robalo 246 Cayman SD
  • Scout 281 XXS
  • Sportsman Masters 267OE
  • Tideline 235 Hybrid

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1. Boston Whaler 280 Dauntless

dauntless 280

The 280 Dauntless made our list of the 10 Best Center Console Boats , and it’s making this list, too, for the same reason: as advertised, it really is unsinkable. Whaler’s glass-foam-glass sandwich construction makes every inch of the boat buoyant. 

And, the 280 Dauntless checks all the fishing boxes with livewells, rod holders, tackle stowage, and so on. We also note that while Boston Whalers command top dollar, they maintain a stronger resale value than most competitors, so they represent a better investment than most boats.

Visit Boston Whaler to learn more.

2. Bulls Bay 2000

bb2000

With an MSRP under the $45,000 mark, including a Yamaha F115 outboard, the Bulls Bay 2000 makes its mark for being affordable without being “cheap.” Though it’s priced well below most similar competitors, it still has multiple livewells, a true leaning post with rocket launchers as opposed to a swing-back cooler seat, and lots of stainless-steel pieces and parts where cheap boats have plastic.

Visit Bulls Bay Boats to learn more.

3. Caymas 26 HB

Caymas 26 HB

We love the Caymas 26 HB for its bow -to- stern 100-percent fishability — pull off the bow seat cushions and fold down the bench seat in the aft deck , and the only place on this boat unfit for casting is on the console itself. 

Twin livewells hold 35 gallons each, and there are rod holders galore. But what really sets it apart from the crowd is the SVVT twin-stepped tunnel hull . It boosts speed and efficiency to the tune of 15-percent and rigged with the 400-hp max power; you’ll be scooting across the water at highway speeds.

Visit Caymas Boats to learn more.

4. Grady-White 281 CE

grady-white-281

This all-new model for 2023 lands you squarely in the lap of bay boat luxury! 

Between the big forward console lounger, electric-actuated bow seat backrests, and a folding door in the gunwale that turns into a swim platform, nothing will beat the 281 CE for relaxing after you’re done reeling. Plus, this is one of the few hybrid bay boats around that lets you opt for either single or twin-engine power packages.

Visit Grady-White Boats to learn more.

5. Pathfinder 2300 HPS

pathfinder 2300

Few bay boats can match the techy construction on the Pathfinder 2300 HPS, which is vacuum infused to maximize strength while minimizing weight. On top of that, this boat has a stepped hull and, with a 250-hp powerplant, can hit speeds in the low 60s— something very few bay boats under 25 feet can accomplish.

Visit Pathfinder Boats to learn more.

6. Ranger RB200

rb200

The only aluminum boat to make our list is the Ranger RB200, and the fact that it’s an aluminum rig gains the advantages of relatively low cost, lighter weight for easy towing with a modest tow vehicle, and low maintenance . But beyond that, we love that this boat comes as a complete package. 

It has the bow-mounted electric trolling motor and deep-cycle batteries, the fishfinder, the onboard battery charger, the Rawhide interior coating, and even the tandem axel trailer with a spare wheel and swing-away tongue. All are included, right out of the box.

Visit Ranger Boats to learn more.

7. Robalo 246 Cayman SD

Robalo Boats

There’s a lot to be said for the Robalo 246 Cayman SD, including a relatively attractive price-point, more room than most bay boats its size thanks to a 9’0” beam , and a long list of fishing features, including twin livewells with 50 gallons of total capacity. 

What makes it unique, however, is that it’s one of the smallest bay boats around, with an upper station atop the hard top. Those who enjoy sight fishing but don’t want to move up to a 26’ or larger bay boat will look no further. 

Visit Robalo Boats for more information.

8. Scout 281 XXS

scout-281-xss

This is another model that stands out for its luxury appointments, with a double-wide forward console lounger, gobs of seating, and cushioning synthetic decking on the bow and stern casting decks. 

It carries top tech, too, with an infused hull, digital switching touchscreen controls, and Zipwakes on the transom . This is also another boat that can be rigged with either a single or twin engines; opt for the twin 300s or a single 450, and you’ll be rolling across the water at speeds in excess of 60 mph.

Visit Scout Boats to learn more.

9. Sportsman Masters 267OE

masters 267OE

The Sportsman Masters 267OE was refreshed for the 2023 model year, and this boat has all the angling goodies you could want, plus some luxury touches while offering something most other high-end bay boats can’t: a tremendous bang for your buck. 

It MSRPs for around a third less than the cost of some, yet the top-end features found on pricier boats like multiple livewells, the big console lounger, and a full electronics package are included on the stock boat.

Visit Sportsman Boats to learn more.

10. Tideline 235 Hybrid

tideline 235 hybrid

Cat fans will be happy to see the Tideline 235 Hybrid on this list, and they already know why it makes it: you just can’t beat that smooth cat ride in a chop. It also enjoys resin infused construction. What about fishing features? 

The Tideline 235 Hybrid is a custom boat, so you can have it built with or without whatever you like — more rodholders over here, less over there, Power Poles, upper stations, it’s all up to the original owner.

Visit Tideline Boats to learn more. 

Did you find your perfect fishing machine among these 10 best bay boats for 2023? Maybe rent a boat to get to know the boat. 

Each of these 10 bay boats deserves to be called “best” for one reason or another, and if you’re hunting for a new fishing machine there’s a good chance one or more will land on your short-list.

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Lenny-Rudow

With over three decades of experience in marine journalism, Lenny Rudow has contributed to dozens of boating and fishing publications and websites ranging from BoatU.S. Magazine to BDOutdoors.com. Rudow is currently the Angler in Chief at Rudow’s FishTalk , he is a past president of Boating Writers International (BWI), a graduate of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design, and has won numerous BWI and OWAA writing awards.

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40 Best Sailboats

  • By Cruising World Editors
  • Updated: April 18, 2019

Sailors are certainly passionate about their boats, and if you doubt that bold statement, try posting an article dubbed “ 40 Best Sailboats ” and see what happens.

Barely had the list gone live, when one reader responded, “Where do I begin? So many glaring omissions!” Like scores of others, he listed a number of sailboats and brands that we were too stupid to think of, but unlike some, he did sign off on a somewhat upbeat note: “If it weren’t for the presence of the Bermuda 40 in Cruising World’s list, I wouldn’t even have bothered to vote.”

By vote, he means that he, like hundreds of other readers, took the time to click through to an accompanying page where we asked you to help us reshuffle our alphabetical listing of noteworthy production sailboats so that we could rank them instead by popularity. So we ask you to keep in mind that this list of the best sailboats was created by our readers.

The quest to building this list all began with such a simple question, one that’s probably been posed at one time or another in any bar where sailors meet to raise a glass or two: If you had to pick, what’re the best sailboats ever built?

In no time, a dozen or more from a variety of sailboat manufacturers were on the table and the debate was on. And so, having fun with it, we decided to put the same question to a handful of CW ‘s friends: writers and sailors and designers and builders whose opinions we value. Their favorites poured in and soon an inkling of a list began to take shape. To corral things a bit and avoid going all the way back to Joshua Slocum and his venerable Spray —Hell, to Noah and his infamous Ark —we decided to focus our concentration on production monohull sailboats, which literally opened up the sport to anyone who wanted to get out on the water. And since CW is on the verge or turning 40, we decided that would be a nice round number at which to draw the line and usher in our coming ruby anniversary.

If you enjoy scrolling through this list, which includes all types of sailboats, then perhaps you would also be interested in browsing our list of the Best Cruising Sailboats . Check it out and, of course, feel free to add your favorite boat, too. Here at Cruising World , we like nothing better than talking about boats, and it turns out, so do you.

40. Moore 24

39. pearson vanguard, 38. dufour arpege 30, 37. alerion express 28, 36. mason 43/44, 35. jeanneau sun odyssey 43ds, 34. nor’sea 27, 33. freedom 40, 32. beneteau sense 50, 31. nonsuch 30, 30. swan 44, 29. c&c landfall 38, 28. gulfstar 50, 27. sabre 36, 26. pearson triton, 25. islander 36, 24. gozzard 36, 23. bristol 40, 22. tartan 34, 21. morgan out island 41, 20. hylas 49, 19. contessa 26, 18. whitby 42, 17. columbia 50, 16. morris 36, 15. hunter 356, 13. beneteau 423, 12. westsail 32, 10. alberg 30, 9. island packet 38, 8. passport 40, 7. tayana 37, 6. peterson 44, 5. pacific seacraft 37, 4. hallberg-rassy 42, 3. catalina 30, 2. hinckley bermuda 40, 1. valiant 40.

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13 Best Liveaboard Sailboats (under 30 & 50 ft)

Choosing a boat to live on is a big deal — something you definitely want to get right. There are plenty of options to pick from, which can make the choosing process a bit daunting. So to help you navigate those deep waters (no pun intended), here is an article summarizing the 13 best liveaboard sailboats under 30 and 50 feet.

best yacht for the money

So what are the 13 best liveaboard sailboats?

Catalina 30, pacific seacraft flicka 20, nonsuch ultra 30, aventura 34, island packet 35, peterson 44, prout snowgoose 37, gulfstar 44, beneteau oceanis 50.

Beautiful lineup, isn't it? Let me explain what makes these so special.

Picking the Right One Matters

Picking a liveaboard sailboat belongs among those kinds of decisions that require months, if not years of research and testing.

It is not like choosing a car - those are more or less the same, and although they vary widely in terms of comfort, feeling, and performance, rarely you would encounter one that wouldn't get you from point A to B reasonably.

The same goes for a house or an apartment. Regardless of if you get a 200 square foot condo or a 30,000 square feet mansion, it will most of the time provide a warm shelter with a shower and a kitchen and a bed, fulfilling its basic functions.

But this is only the case because there is extensive infrastructure in place helping cars and houses. A car can only get you from A to B thanks to roads. A house can only have a shower and a kitchen if it is connected to a grid.

But on a boat, you are on your own.

best yacht for the money

The sea doesn't adjust its waves for your comfort. If something breaks, there is usually not a repair shop nearby. You aren't always connected to water or electricity. And if you don't like what you see around yourself, it's not like you can just leave.

So a liveaboard boat needs to provide what a house does, what a vehicle does, and more, plus it needs to provide this regardless of if you are docked in a marina or in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. That is a lot to ask, especially if we are talking about boats around 30 or 50 feet.

Fortunately, every single boat on this list is an all-star that ticks all the right boxes. Let's see why.

best yacht for the money

I know, I hear you, it isn't exciting enough as it doesn't perform that well. Sure. But we are talking about a boat that is supposed to be a house too. So why is it on the list?

This boat has been in production since 1975, which means that it has been extraordinarily well-refined according to the suggestions of thousands of owners. And this manufacturer is known for listening to the sailors' feedback. It is a very popular model, so finding spare parts for it will always be easy. Its famous well thought through the salon, and cabin layout is generous and spacious, so Catalinas are comfortable boats to live on. Plus, the boat has quite a wide beam, great ballast/displacement ratio as well as low sail area/displacement ratio, making it a stiff boat under sail, which adds to stability and comfort.

Good condition MkIII Catalinas can be found for about $35,000, but given the volume of these on the market, you can find a usable one even for around $15,000.

This one is a hero. I'd be hesitant to call such a small boat a comfortable liveaboard if it wasn't for this model. For its size, the interior is very spacious. It is also made for comfort since it seems to be inspired by the aforementioned Catalina 30. In fact, after reading some reviews, I am confident in saying that you will not find a significantly more comfortable 27 footer out there.

It also has a talent very uncommon for liveaboard boats - you can put it on a trailer, which can make your life easier when it comes to certain trips. But most importantly, it is a beauty. Just look at it.

Pricing this boat is a tricky task. You can buy nearly new ones (2015) for around $140,000, but even for $50,000, you can stumble upon models from both the 80s and the 2000s. This means the condition is a big factor, and you gotta inspect your choice well. The good news is that whatever your price in that range, you will find a boat for that money. The bad news is that the cheaper you go, the more effort will the potential repairs take.

I thought the Nor'Sea 27 is gonna be it, but let's push the size limit even more with the 20 foot Flicka, this tiny, towable, but seaworthy beast that accomplished several circumnavigations. Upon entering, you will be amazed at how spacious and equipped with amenities the interior is. Its designer lived on this boat with his partner (who too was a naval architect) for years and cruised all around the world - and what a proof of confidence in his own design that is.

Truth be told, there is a lack of deck space, but underneath it has the comfort and size of a boat a few meters larger, a space you can comfortably live in. Due to its size, it is easy to operate, tow, and sails better than what you would expect from a boat this length.

This boat is incredibly charming, and so its owners rarely sell it. In fact, it has amassed quite a following since it was designed into existence. So expect to spend quite some time searching for one for sale. Once you do find one, it will cost you around $30,000 - $40,000.

This one's a weird one. But because of it, a very spacious one. It is structured as a catboat, that is, with the mast being all the way on the front of the boat, which makes for impressive space below the deck. It has all the necessary amenities, including a shower, so for the liveaboard lifestyle, this boat definitely deserves to make this list.

The single sail catboat design also means it is easy to handle single-handed, which makes for great solitary passages.

Expect to pay around $40,000 to $60,000 for this one.

Though I am trying to keep this list in lower price ranges, I have to put this one in. If you don't mind the price tag of around $170,000, this boat is marketed as the currently cheapest liveaboard catamaran. As previously mentioned, cats offer the most in terms of space, and this model is a brand new one. Thus when it comes to service troubles and costs, you wouldn't pay much. The look is modern, relatively minimalistic and sleek, so for those of you who would like to give the liveaboard lifestyle a go but get cold feet upon seeing boats from the 80s, this is a way to make sure things remain stylish.

The modernity, space, and attention to practicality when it comes to using this as your home, make this a great entry-level liveaboard choice.

Again, this is no performance vehicle. Rather it focuses on the usual cruiser aspects - space, stability, sturdiness, and convenience, which makes it an ideal candidate for your choice when looking for a new floating home. Aside from the spacious interior, this boat also has an unusually large cockpit, great for those lunches on the deck.

As if the designers knew this might be used by the liveaboard people, this boat is easy to handle, which means even under sail, you won't have issues focusing on what you came for in the first place - sea living.

This boat can be found on the market for around $75,000 - $100,000.

The great thing about the Hunter 33 is that it was designed as more of a house than a sailboat. The attention to accommodation details is great here; there is plenty of space for sleeping the owners as well as the occasional visitors, it has a fantastic headroom throughout the boat and one of the most spacious and comfortable dining spaces seen on boats this size.

Food preparation and consumption was probably high on the priority list of the makers; the kitchen has an L shape, which adds to the convenience.

The price spread on these is quite large, with the bottom around $55,000 for the 2004 models and the top around $95,000 for the 2013 models.

This one is for those who don't mind sacrificing luxury for space. If in the middle of the ocean, it makes sense that one would want as much of usable space as possible, so if you are okay with the simplicity that will inevitably come with a system like this, you have found your match.

An undeniable advantage of such a design approach is that the storage space is maximized. Long passages with the need for plenty of room for equipment and provisions won't be a problem here. The simplicity of this boat is not just in terms of design, but even the electrics and plumbing. Thus if something breaks, you will have an easier time fixing it.

This being an older model, you can get your hands on one for around $30,000.

Since we are mostly looking at cheaper boats here, most of them aren't new - in fact, they likely have quite a few years behind them. The build quality is thus important. You want to go for builds that will last. Peterson is known for this, so it's gotta be on the list. As far as this list goes, it is quite a large boat. Moreover, it is one that has been built with spaciousness in mind, both when it comes to living spaces and storage.

A neat thing about this boat is its attention to performance. It isn't a racer; rather, it fits in the performance cruiser category, but they haven't made too many speed-related compromises here.

Peterson 44 can usually be found for $80,000 - $100,000.

There needs to be a catamaran on this list - they are, by definition, more spacious than monohulls, providing a large living area, which is, of course, an attractive characteristic for a liveaboard boat. Especially if they have a solid bridge deck, creating yet more square feet of usable space, which Snowgoose has. Unfortunately, they tend to be costly. While it is easy to recommend a bunch of half a million dollar cats, to make this list more within reach of the average sailor, I've found this beauty that you can get for around $100,000.

Aside from the extra space, this model is a true bluewater cruiser, meaning you won't be limited by its abilities when planning your journeys.

Those of you who had the pleasure of sailing this boat know why it needs to be here. It was built for a liveaboard lifestyle. Its wide body makes for one spacious interior which is well ventilated, (a very important aspect) with a beautiful galley and it has a large aft cabin with a huge bed. It was made with comfort, practicality, and convenience in mind.

Not to sound like a salesman, but believe me when I say this boat is a genuine pleasure to be on. If you want the homey feeling, you don't get much closer than this in this size range.

Expect to pay around $80,000 - $100,000 for this one, though some digging around and 'fixing her up' can knock this number down significantly.

This is another easy choice, space being the reason. Not only does it have an extra-large main cabin and salon with a kitchen, many small Parisian apartments could envy, but it is also very generous in terms of storage space. Stocking up for longer crossings will be a pleasure on this one.

Also, it was built as a racer-cruiser, so you won't be making many compromises in terms of performance, as is often the case with comfortable boats.

All of this comes for a price, though. You might be able to find one for around $100,000 if you put some time into your search and won't mind a bit of travel to see it, but otherwise, the average price is around $130,000.

Let's end this list by stretching the ceiling too with this fifty-footer. It was designed as a holiday cruiser, and it is a popular choice among charter companies. The designers know that there are places in Europe where it is very easy to get a sailing license, so many inexperienced people who don't want to give up the comforts of their home end up on these boats. Oceanis 50 is thus comfortable, spacious, easy to sail, and the attention to accommodation details, amenities, and practicality, is very high.

As such, it is designed to house whole families, so if you live there as a couple, you will have a floating house for yourself, and if kids come, no need to buy a new boat. Even on the deck, this boat is designed for pleasure cruises, so as far as that goes, you will be taken care of. As far as their seaworthiness goes, some consider Beneteau an entry-level holiday brand, and some models are indeed more designed for coastal hopping than large crossings. But that can be fixed with some proper fitting.

If you fancy a new one, you will find yourself paying above the $500,000 mark, but older models start a bit above $100,000. Which is something a person who just sold all their possessions to escape to the sea is more likely to have. Just be a bit careful with boats sold by charter companies. Their previous owners serviced them regularly, but you can be sure the hundreds of sailors that touched the helm weren't necessarily skilled or kind to them.

So there you have it. $15,000 - $50,0000 range, 20 - 50-foot sizes, from cozy towable boats to large sailing houses. A range anybody can choose from to pursue the liveaboard dream. Nothing is stopping you now, so hit the yachtworld.com website and start browsing.

Know though that if you really want to take advantage of the boat market, you might have to travel quite a bit. If you are an American, the strong dollar will make it enticing to look for a boat in European countries without the EUR currency. Or you might find plenty of cheap models in Turkey, for instance. It requires more effort, but in return, it might save you tens of thousands of dollars.

Fair winds!

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Best chartplotter: 6 great options from marine MFDs to tablets

  • Toby Heppell
  • December 9, 2022

There are many options when choosing the best chartplotter or MFD (Multi Function Display) for your boat, with a seemingly endless number of functions and a significant amount of jargon – we cut through the information overload to help you find the right unit.

best-chartplotters-buying-guide-Spirit-63-helm

Not sure where to start looking for a chartplotter or MFD? The terms ‘chartplotter’ and ‘MFD’ are broadly used interchangeably, but typically an MFD works as a chartplotter but also functions as a whole system hub too, connecting a variety of information sources.

For the most part, MFDs are what you would look to put on most modern cruising yachts and racing yachts. A chartplotter by itself might be something you install if you are very limited in terms of space and/or budget, or have (and intend to remain with) very few other electronics onboard.

Happily in the last decade or so improvements have worked to both make units more user friendly and have seen something of a levelling process across the market, which means you would be hard pushed to pick the wrong unit, though some will inevitably work better for your needs than others.

This is, however, the hub of your yacht, so choose a system that feels intuitive to you and invest as much time as you can familiarising yourself with its menus and customisation options.

Best chartplotters available right now

Raymarine axiom mfd.

Best chartplotter with augmented reality

Raymarine’s Axiom MFDs come in three sizes, 7, 9 or 12in screens and feature a touchscreen surrounded by a border and a few basic buttons on the bottom edge of the screen. Beyond the screen size there is practically no difference between the models, so it will simply be a case of selecting the right size for your boat and your budget.

The Axiom series comes with Raymarine’s proprietary Lighthouse 3 operating system . Lighthouse 3 was launched in 2019 and is an impressive bit of kit, and certainly upgrades a great many of the company’s sailing features. Currently Raymarine are in the process of building a library of yachts into Lighthouse 3. This will mean that if your boat is one of those already in the library you will automatically get a set of performance polars (which can take significant time to develop from scratch) which will make auto routing and layline functions even more accurate and boat specific.

In 2019, alongside the launch of Lighthouse 3, Raymarine also unveiled an augmented reality system , which will work on Axiom MFDs – though it will require the purchase and mounting of a FLIR camera. Once mounted and connected, this camera sends its imagery to the MFD and overlays useful information such as AIS targets’ speed, heading and collision warning data, course to steer visuals and lay lines to name a few. A smartphone or tablet can also be connected as a second screen. 

Raymarine’s Axiom MFDs are compatible with their own proprietary Lighthouse charts and Navionics, C-MAP Essentials, and C-MAP 4D MAX+.

Reasons to buy: Variable sizes for varying budgets, features Lighthouse 3

Reasons to avoid: AR requires an extra camera

RRP: £650 / $799

Buy it now on Amazon

Read MBY’s Raymarine Axiom review

With each product is a ‘Buy it now’ link. If you click on this then we may receive a small amount of money from the retailer when you purchase the item. This doesn’t affect the amount you pay.

B&g vulcan mfd.

Best chartplotter for club racing

B&G were, for many years, the go-to brand for serious racing sailing and have long led the field in terms of the best chartplotters and MFDs for sailing. However, the high end nature of their products has meant they were once also considered something of an expensive option.

B&G’s Vulcan range offers a great deal of impressive functionality at great value. This sailing chartplotter was designed primarily for coastal cruising and club/inshore racing, so it does lack some of the very top-end racing features you might find in B&G’s other products.

The multi-touch screen comes in three sizes (7, 9, or 12in) and is still packed with plenty of B&G’s unique sailing features including their impressive SailSteer and RacePanel – particularly well loved for providing an easy to follow, simple racing display on an MFD.

B&G’s Vulcan MFD supports the following charts: Insight, Navionics (Gold, NAV+ Platinum+), C-MAP (MAX N, MAX N+) NV Digital (Raster US Charts).

Reasons to buy: Multi-touch screen, unique SailSteer and sailing features, easy to follow display

Reasons to avoid: Can’t display Radar due to lack of ethernet, missing radar features

Buy it now from West Marine

Read PBO’s B&G Vulcan chartplotter review

B&G Zeus3S chartplotter

Best chartplotter for professional sailors

The Zeus is B&Gs higher-end model and features several of the racing and more professional features that the Vulcan skips. The key differences here over the Vulcan are improved processing power – an iMX8 integrated six-core processor – which improves response of the unit. It also includes compatibility with FLIR video cameras too.

The screen for the Zeus3S is a market leader in terms of visibility in light and dark conditions – with or without polarised sunglasses – and control of the touch screen in wet conditions.

The MFD can also be connected and screen shared with other devices, such as a smartphone of tablet, providing you a secondary way of accessing your charting information and/or sailing feedback. Finally, although there is the excellent touchscreen the Zeus3S also features a keyboard in case of severe conditions, which is not included with the Vulcan. 

The Zeus3S comes with world baseman charting installed and also supports: Insight, Navionics (Gold, NAV+ Platinum+) , C-MAP (MAX N, MAX N+,Reveal) NV Digital (Raster US Charts).

Reasons to buy: Market leader in terms of visibility, keyboard and touchscreen functionality, world baseman charting pre-installed

Reasons to avoid: premium price

RRP: £4,529.99/ $2,999

Buy it now at B&G

Garmin GPSMap 8400 MFD

Best chartplotter for sailing and fishing

Garmin are a well-known and trusted marque, their products are generally very impressive and cover a wide range of options. However, they have been quite focussed on the fishing market in the past, somewhat to the detriment of their sailing customers and features.

In recent years, though, there has been a clear push to better develop their sailing specific software and this, coupled with the connectivity to the many other available Garmin items on the market, has made them a force to be reckoned with. The GPSMap 8400 range is very much their top-of-the-line marine tech. The units come on a variety of sizes from 10in all the way up to a massive 24in display.

Garmin SailAssist provides critical data displays and pre-race guidance to help you gain a competitive edge. Other sailing features include laylines, enhanced wind rose, heading and course-over-ground lines, true wind data fields and tide/current/time slider.

Gauge displays provide information at a glance, including true and apparent wind angle, set and drift, true or apparent wind speed, horizontal or vertical graphs and a data bar with customisable fields. Connectivity with other devices is excellent with the activeCaptain app allowing connection with smartphones and tables as well as connection to Garmin Quatix sailing watches and FLIR cameras.

The GPSMap8400 can be supplied with Garmin’s exclusive optional BlueChart g3 and BlueChart g3 Vision charts with integrated Navionics data.

Reasons to buy: Connectivity to many other Garmin devices, top-of-the-line GPS, SailAssist

Reasons to avoid: Premium price, optional extras at cost

RRP: £2,529.99 / $2,599.99

Buy it now via Garmin (UK)

Buy it now via Garmin (US)

Simrad Go7 XSR chartplotter

Best compact chartplotter

The Simrad XSR range is a, full-featured standalone marine chartplotter packed into a compact, unit. Both the GO5 and GO7 XSR feature a bright touch display, StructureScan HD and CHIRP Sonar, autopilot integration/control, integrated wireless connectivity and the new Simrad TripIntelT trip computer.

The XSE display has multi-touch controls that are modelled to be similar to smartphone and tablet control systems and so will be easy to use for most. Boaters are able to tap the screen to create or select waypoints, pinch-to-zoom, or tap-and-drag to pan smoothly across charts, while simple home screen and menu layouts allow quick access to all functions.

Adjustable split-screen views and customisable panel layouts with large, clearly captioned icons that are easy to recognise, make the XSR a simple-to-use, full-featured chartplotter.

Simrad’s Go7 XSR comes with preloaded Basemap and supports the use of C-Map Pro.

Reasons to buy: Compact, bright display. features sonar integration

Reasons to avoid: Lacks the extensive feature list of competitors

RRP: £829.99 / $749

Buy it now on West Marine

Tablet with Navionics

A great value chartplotter alternative

If you are not looking to permanently fit an MFD to your boat, either due to size or lack of places to fit one, a decent option is simply to run Navionics on either a ruggedised tablet, or on a standard tablet with a waterproof casing.

As this involves using hardware not designed for that purpose, there are some things to consider and some obvious drawbacks. You either have to buy a ‘WiFi and Cellular’ version which has an onboard GPS chip (you do not have to insert a SIM card nor do you need a data plan for the GPS functionality). If you go for the WiFi only you will need an external GPS device to plug in to an iPad.

Additionally, the screens are not designed to be used in   wet environments and often have not been created to deal with the same sort of glare levels as are the screens on a full-on MFD.

However, the cost of a year’s subscription to Navionics – the charts which many MFDs use anyway – a new tablet, case and mount can be pretty close to that of one of the best chartplotters, and would also mean you have a shiny new tablet which has plenty of other uses.

If you have a smaller boat and merely want a chartplotter to supplement your standard paper-chart navigation, this is a pretty good option. 

Reasons to buy: Great alternative if have existing equipment

Reasons to avoid: Tablet not included (extra cost), would requite cellular or external GPS. not designed for wet enibronments

RRP: £225 (exc. tablet)

Get Navionics charts on Amazon

What features do the best chartplotters offer?

Screen technology is one area that has seen significant development in recent years. Screens are now screens brighter, easer to see at angles, less troubled by glare and touchscreens are much more responsive when wet too. This has all made touchscreen MFDs much more reliably responsive.

The bonus here is that a pure touchscreen will offer increased screen real estate for its mounting size. Simply put, a 7in touchscreen will always offer more screen space than a 7in unit which includes buttons round the outside. But buttons may be something you want as a backup if you are considering going far offshore.

Most of the chartplotters we cover here will be available in a variety of screen sizes. Typically you’d want to pick up the biggest screen you have space for, so which size option you choose will likely be governed almost entirely by the size of your boat, as well as cost – bigger is pricier.

Most of the best chartplotters will connect via NMEA to other onboard electronics such as wind speed and direction, boat speed, autopilot, AIS and much more. This will enable sailing features such as laylines, accurate routing and auto routing to be available.

Charts are one of the biggest questions for those looking to buy a new MFD. Though these are pretty standardised across a small number of suppliers, there is still variance from unit to unit. If you know what charts you prefer already then you will want to make sure that your chosen MFD is compatible.  

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated boating page for more marine products.

8 Affordable Boats to Consider Buying in 2023

Are you entering the boating market? Congratulations! Purchasing your own boat kickstarts many on-the-water adventures for you and your family. And fortunately, there are plenty of affordable boats on the market this year. 

Affordable-Boats-2023

From smaller boats with basic features to bargain fishing vessels with onboard technology, today’s post covers eight affordable boats to consider buying in 2023.

Affordable Boat Options: 

On the hunt for an affordable vessel to call your own? Check out these eight affordably priced boats to consider buying in 2023: 

1. Tracker Grizzly 1648 SC

If you’re looking for a no-frills, aluminum fishing boat, the Tracker Grizzly 1648 SC is a great option. This powder-coated boat is durable (no wood here!) and has a Mod V hull design for smooth sailing. 

And while it might look like a sporty boat, this vessel handles itself surprisingly well. The Tracker Grizzly 1648 is 16 feet long with VERSATRACK accessory mounting and two pedestal seat bases to accommodate all your fishing needs . 

You can purchase this vessel for a starting price of $9,795. Visit Tracker Boats for more info.  

2. Bayliner 160 Bowrider

The Bayliner 160 Bowrider is a terrific first boat for families. With plenty of storage space, a full windshield, an onboard stereo, bimini covers, and reliable performance, this boat was made for long days spent on the water with your crew. 

The best part? You can select a ski tow pylon as an add-on if you have any youngsters (or oldsters!) interested in testing their watersport skills. 

You can purchase the Bayliner 160 Bowrider for a starting price of $16,499. Visit Bayliner for more info.

3. Mako Pro Skiff 15 CC

Do we have any saltwater boaters out there? If so, the Mako Pro Skiff 15 CC is your ideal first rig. This composite boat was made for stability, with a one-piece deck liner and marine-grade vinyl upholstery that wards off even the saltiest sprays. 

In addition, the lockable storage, aerated baitwell, removable seat/cooler, rod holders, and electronic mounting options provide all the bells and whistles an angler could want. 

Get it for a starting price of $14,995. Visit MAKO  to learn more.

4. Carolina Skiff 162 JLS

The Carolina Skiff 162 JLS is easy to handle, incredibly durable, and versatile in bays, creeks, rivers, and beyond. Anglers are drawn to this vessel for her ample storage, an 18-gallon live well, and a fishing seat with an 11-foot pole. However, families will also appreciate this vessel’s comfortably smooth ride and a family-friendly three-step telescoping ladder that makes getting into and out of the water a breeze. 

You can purchase the Carolina Skiff 162 JLS for a starting price of $24,900. Visit  Carolina Skiff for more details. 

5. Doral 250 SE

The Canadian Doral 250 SE is a cabin cruiser at its finest. Its signature feature is the cabin’s woodwork color, making it both classy and inviting. Additionally, the layout is entirely conventional, with a dinette forward and a small galley opposite the heads. And because there’s a sliding section of cockpit seating, this boat easily accommodates all your family and friends. 

While this boat is no longer made new, you can find it on the used boat market for around $58,700. Contact your local boat dealer for more info.  

Find a Boat Dealer

6. Tahoe T16

The Tahoe T16 offers that signature sporty feel with the comfort of expensive barges. Plus, the fiberglass hull and lightweight construction make towing this vessel a breeze – even with a smaller vehicle. Complete with a swim platform, telescoping boarding ladder, and ample storage; this boat is ideal for families and on-the-water adventurers. 

Purchase the Tahoe T16 for a starting price of $15,995. Visit Tahoe  for more details. 

7. Pro-Line 20 Sport

Pro-line is an ideal boat brand for first-time owners, and the 20 Sport is one of its best. This fishing vessel is small enough to keep at the house yet big enough for serious anglers and large families. Some notable features include a large center console with an enclosed head, lots of rod storage, a swim platform, and room for seven people to sit comfortably. 

You can purchase this vessel for a starting price of $9,995. Visit Pro-Line Boats  to learn more.

8. Tracker Pro Team 175 TXW 

Are you looking for an affordable way to meet all your fishing needs? The Tracker Pro Team 175 TXW is the rig for you. It boasts a Revolution hull, a color fish finder, two pedestal seat bases (with moving folding fishing seats), ample gear storage, and a trolling motor. 

In addition, the Tracker Pro Team 175 TXW features a 60 ELPT FourStroke Engine. However, you could downsize to the 20 ELPT FourStroke Engine if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative. 

You can purchase the Tracker Pro Team 175 TXW at a starting price of $17,995. Visit Tracker Boats for more info. 

Editor's Note:  Pricing is accurate as last date of publish, January 2023. Please contact each  boat manufacturer  or your local boat dealer directly for the most updated pricing.

The Top 8 Most Affordable Cuddy Cabin Boats

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10 of the Best Yacht Rock Songs of All Time

Yacht Rock, a 1970s and 1980s-era subgenre has recently experienced a boom in popularity. Its distinctive fusion of jazz, R&B, and soft rock components has enthralled audiences and created a new fan base. Yacht Rock has evolved into the go-to music for individuals looking to unwind and escape from the rigors of daily life because of its calming melodies, layered harmonies, and catchy hooks.

In this article, we’ll examine in more detail ten of the best Yacht Rock songs that have become timeless favorites. These songs, which range from the comforting melodies of The Doobie Brothers’ “What a Fool Believes” to the memorable hooks of Toto’s “Africa,” have withstood the test of time and continue to enthrall listeners. We’ll discuss what makes these songs unique and ideal for those long days spent on the lake or leisurely evenings on the patio, whether you’re a lifelong admirer of the genre or new to it. Take a drink, relax, and join me as we embark on a musical tour of the best Yacht Rock has to offer.

10 of the Best Yacht Rock Songs

1. “sailing” by christopher cross.

An undeniable Yacht Rock classic, “Sailing” won Christopher Cross the Grammy for Record of the Year in 1981. The song’s dreamy lyrics and soothing melody perfectly encapsulate the feeling of being at one with the water. It is the ideal soundtrack for an afternoon spent sailing or simply enjoying the ocean breeze. With its gentle instrumentation and Cross’s calming vocals, “Sailing” transports listeners to a peaceful, sun-drenched world where worries and stress drift away.

2. “What a Fool Believes” by the Doobie Brothers

Written by Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins, “What a Fool Believes” showcases The Doobie Brothers’ signature sound with smooth, soulful vocals and intricate keyboard work. Released in 1979, this Grammy-winning song topped the charts and remained a fan favorite for its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about unrequited love. With its polished production and infectious energy, “What a Fool Believes” remains a Yacht Rock staple that continues to captivate audiences.

3. “Love Will Keep Us Together” by Captain & Tennille

Captain & Tennille’s 1975 hit “Love Will Keep Us Together” is a quintessential Yacht Rock ballad celebrating love’s power. The song’s upbeat tempo, irresistible hook, and Daryl Dragon’s masterful keyboard playing make it a timeless classic that resonates with listeners today. It’s difficult not to get carried away by this uplifting hymn to love and dedication as Toni Tennille’s sincere vocals flawlessly meld with the song’s infectious tune.

4. “Steal Away” by Robbie Dupree

A prime example of Yacht Rock’s laid-back vibe is “Steal Away” by Robbie Dupree, a smooth and sultry hit that made waves in 1980. The song paints a picture of a spontaneous, romantic escapade with its memorable chorus, funky groove, and Dupree’s soulful vocals. From its breezy synths to its driving beat, “Steal Away” encapsulates the carefree spirit of Yacht Rock, making it a must-listen for fans of the genre.

5. “Africa” by Toto

“ Africa ” by Toto, released in 1982, is a beloved Yacht Rock anthem that has stood the test of time. The song’s unforgettable melody, lush harmonies, and captivating storytelling have made it a favorite for listeners worldwide. With its vivid lyrics and soaring chorus, “Africa” transports listeners to a vast, uncharted landscape of adventure and romance. Its distinctive blend of rock and world music elements makes this track an enduring classic.

6. “Peg” by Steely Dan

Jazzy and sophisticated, “Peg” by Steely Dan showcases the band’s trademark fusion of rock, pop, and jazz. Released in 1977, the song’s infectious groove, polished production, and impeccable musicianship have made it a Yacht Rock staple. Featuring Michael McDonald on backing vocals, “Peg” is a prime example of Steely Dan’s knack for creating intricate yet accessible music. With its bright horns, unforgettable guitar riff, and smooth harmonies, “Peg” has earned its place among the Yacht Rock elite.

7. “Baby Come Back” by Player

“Baby Come Back” by Player is a quintessential Yacht Rock ballad that tugs at the heartstrings with poignant lyrics about lost love. The 1977 song’s deep melody, memorable chorus, and longing vocals have made it a timeless classic that appeals to listeners even now. As the song builds to its unforgettable climax, “Baby Come Back” reminds us of the power of love and the enduring appeal of Yacht Rock’s smooth sound.

8. “I Can’t Go for That (No Can Do)” by Hall & Oates

A sultry, funk-infused hit, “I Can’t Go for That (No Can Do)” by Hall & Oates, showcases the duo’s signature blend of pop and soul. Released in 1981, the song’s irresistible groove, catchy hook, and Daryl Hall’s smooth vocals have made it a fan favorite. With its irresistible beat and effortlessly cool vibe, “I Can’t Go for That (No Can Do)” is a standout track in the Yacht Rock genre that still gets people moving on the dance floor.

9. “Hey Nineteen” by Steely Dan

Another Yacht Rock classic from Steely Dan, “Hey Nineteen,” is a smooth, laid-back tune that perfectly captures the band’s signature sound. The 1980 song’s catchy melody, clever lyrics, and easygoing groove have made it a favorite among listeners.

“Hey Nineteen” is a classic example of Steely Dan’s ability to create timeless music that transcends fads and is still relevant today thanks to its unusual fusion of jazz, pop, and rock components.

10. “Biggest Part of Me” by Ambrosia

Rounding out our list is “Biggest Part of Me” by Ambrosia, a 1980 hit that showcases the band’s trademark blend of soulful vocals, lush harmonies, and smooth instrumentation. With its heartfelt lyrics, soaring chorus, and polished production, the song has become a Yacht Rock classic that still resonates with listeners. As the song builds to its emotional crescendo, “Biggest Part of Me” is a fitting tribute to the enduring appeal of Yacht Rock’s smooth sound.

From sun-soaked afternoons on the water to romantic evenings under the stars, Yacht Rock’s timeless tunes uniquely transport listeners to a world of relaxation and nostalgia. These ten Yacht Rock songs, with their smooth melodies, soulful vocals, and catchy hooks, serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of this beloved subgenre. As more and more people discover the magic of Yacht Rock, its classic tracks continue to sail into the hearts of new fans, proving that this smooth sound is here to stay.

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Jason Butler

Jason Butler is the owner of My Money Chronicles, a website where he discusses personal finance, side hustles, travel, and more. Jason is from Atlanta, Georgia. He graduated from Savannah State University with his BA in Marketing. Jason has been featured in Forbes, Discover, and Investopedia.

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Best Lake Boats: Considerations & Recommendations

  • By Jeff Hemmel
  • January 12, 2024

Every year, countless boaters enjoy “the lake life,” hanging out with friends in the cove, pulling the kids on tubes, skis and boards, or if they’re really lucky, enjoying all of the above from a lakefront home. Lakes are more plentiful and far easier to access than more limited coastal waters. They also typically offer calmer, less intimidating water conditions, a mix of party-friendly coves and secluded fishing spots, and scenic backdrops that vary by region.

Ready to join in on the fun? Here’s what to consider, as well as our expert recommendations, when choosing a lake boat.

On this page:

  • Best Lake Boats
  • What to consider when buying a lake boat

Best Types of Boats for Enjoying the Lake

While any boat can be enjoyable on the lake, we think the best are those that match the interests of the person or family they’re intended for. 

Popular Lake Boat Types:

  • Bowriders/Deckboats – Perhaps the classic lake boats, with an open bow cockpit for additional passengers and the versatility to cruise, pull a variety of watersports or fish.
  • Pontoon Boats – Once dismissed as simply sunset cruisers, modern pontoons boast impressive speed and handling, make a great fishing platform and can even be used for watersports.
  • Watersports Boats – Designed to deliver the ultimate ride, watersports boats use ballast and additional hardware to produce sizable wakes for board sports, while packing in a sizable crew.
  • Fishing Boats – From bass boats to fish-n-skis to center consoles, fishing boats focus on the needs of the angler, but typically offer some measure of comfort for family use.
  • Personal Watercraft – Featuring agile hulls, plenty of horsepower and an intimate connection to the water, PWC continue to be high on fun factor…while growing increasingly diverse.
– SHOW THEM HOW MUCH YOU CARE – Nothing says ‘I love you’ like making sure the kids’ life jackets are snugged up and properly buckled. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Bowriders/Deckboat

The lines have blurred between bowriders and deckboats in recent years, but the common theme is an open bow cockpit that can accommodate additional passengers forward and the versatility to cruise, hang out at the sandbar, fish or pull everyone’s favorite towable. Featuring sterndrive, outboard or jet drive power, their V-hulls handle a variety of water conditions and prove exceptionally stable. Layouts feature seating in both bow and main cockpits and aft swim platforms ideal for swimming, coving or gearing up for watersports.

Quick facts: 

  • Average new boat price: Typically priced between $30,000 – $300,000, depending on length, horsepower, brand and trim level. 
  • Top Brands: Sea Ray, Bayliner, Yamaha, Chaparral, Four Winns, Scarab, Regal, Cobalt, Chris Craft, Monterey, Crownline, Starcraft, Tahoe
  • Lake/water type: Ideal for small-medium lakes, but larger models with more horsepower can comfortably handle larger bodies of water.
  • Average passenger capacity: 8 – 12
  • Primary activities: Cruising, watersports, fishing, family fun.

Highlights:

  • Incredibly versatile, with room for a family-sized crew and the ability to multi-task (i.e. cruise, fish, cove, watersports)
  • Deckboats carry beam well forward, typically offering more passenger space than a runabout’s more pointed bow design.
  • Most sizes are trailerable, opening up the boating lifestyle to those who live off the water or don’t wish to spend money on storage.
  • Relatively simple to operate, with intuitive controls and responsive handling.

Considerations:

  • Sterndrive and jet drive power not easily upgradeable should you desire to eventually repower.
  • Exposed, open cockpits offer little protection in bad weather.

Runabout/Deckboats to Consider:

  • Scarab 195 ID
  • Starcraft SVX 230 IO

Once equated as slow, stable platforms for senior citizens’ cocktail cruise, pontoon boats have matured to become one of the best-selling segments in the boating market. Still stable as ever, but with triple-pontoon configurations offering the buoyancy for ever more passengers and horsepower, modern pontoons take advantage of their rectangular footprint to include seating that rivals many living rooms and a seemingly endless list of amenities. Larger horsepower options make a pontoon a legitimate towboat for watersports. Fishing-oriented models will also satisfy the angler.

Quick facts :

  • Top Brands: Bennington, Harris, Starcraft, Sylvan, Avalon, Tahoe, Manitou, Barletta, Princecraft, Crest, Viaggio
  • Lake/water type: Ideal for small-medium lakes. Larger models with triple pontoons can comfortably handle some larger lakes or even coastal waters.
  • Average passenger capacity: 8 – 15
  • Primary activities: Cruising, fishing, family fun.
  • Diverse selection of floorpans allow buyers to choose a layout that fits their wants, needs and typical passenger load.
  • Handling and horsepower have vastly improved and sometimes rival comparable fiberglass V-hulls.
  • The ultimate party platform, often highlighted by cutting-edge sound and lighting systems.

Considerations: 

  • Medium to larger models are not easily trailerable by common tow vehicles.
  • Harder to dock/maneuver on a windy day as perimeter fencing can catch the breeze.
  • Though modern pontoon configurations have lessened the advantage, V-hulls still prove superior in rougher waters. 

Pontoons to Consider:

  • Bennington 20 SF
  • Manitou Explore 24 Max
  • Tahoe 2585 Cascade

Watersports Boats

While dedicated ski boats are still produced in limited numbers, most modern watersports boats favor the wake-sports crowd. Hulls are designed to naturally displace water. Wake-boosting internal water ballast tanks and a variety of transom hardware further dials in that wake’s size and shape. While V-drives remain the power of choice for serious riders, both jet drive propulsion and forward-facing sterndrives have opened up the market to a larger audience by also keeping propellers away from riders in the surf zone. Look for intuitive dash displays that dial in wakes, ballast and speed with just a few taps of the screen.

  • Average new boat price: Typically priced between $100,000 – $300,000, depending on length, horsepower, brand and trim level. 
  • Top Brands: Malibu, MasterCraft, Nautique, Centurion, Moomba, Supra, Tige, Scarab, Regal, Sea Ray
  • Lake/water type: Ideal for small-medium lakes and relatively calm conditions.
  • Average passenger capacity: 8 – 16
  • Primary activities: Wakesurfing, wakeboarding, family fun.
  • V-drives typically produce superior wakes, but forward-facing sterndrives and jet drives make wake surfing in particular accessible to a much larger audience.
  • Typically a higher level of fit and finish, particularly on the interior.
  • Intuitive controls make it easy to adjust multiple variables, and save a rider’s preferred settings in convenient presets.
  • V-drive boats can’t be trimmed, which can mean a rough ride in choppier waters
  • Typically more expensive than other boats of comparable size.

Watersports Boats to Consider:

  • MasterCraft NXT23
  • Malibu Wakesetter 23 LSV
  • Regal LS9 Surf

When your fishing grounds are freshwater lakes, your boat of choice often depends on what type of fish you’re after…and who else you have to please. Hardcore anglers can choose between low-slung bass boats, multi-species dual-console models or bigger-water center consoles. Family buyers may find the fish-n-ski the best of both worlds, or a fishing-ready pontoon offers the balance they’re looking for. Whatever your choice, look for plenty of rodholders, rod storage, livewells, and GPS/Fishfinders. 

  • Average new boat price: Typically priced between $20,000 – $100,000, depending on length, horsepower, brand and trim level. 
  • Top Brands: G3, Smoker Craft, Yar-Craft, Bass Cat, Nitro, Charger, Ranger, Skeeter, Starcraft, Triton, Yamaha
  • Lake/water type: Ideal for small-medium lakes and calm to medium-chop conditions.
  • Average passenger capacity: 2 – 8
  • Primary activities: Fishing, cruising, family fun.
  • Fishing-specific models recognize the needs of the angler, and provide specific amenities like rodholders and storage, livewells to keep bait fresh, electronic GPS/Fishfinders and casting decks.
  • Convertible seating options often balance the needs of the family buyer, with removable cushions, seating that transitions into casting decks, etc.
  • Outboard power dominates the fishing market, but jet propulsion has made inroads and offers the shallow draft ideal for skinny waters.
  • Even on family-friendly models, don’t expect the same plush seating found in mainstream runabouts and deck boats.
  • Some models, like low-draft bass boats, are ideal for flat, shallow waters but can deliver a rough ride in chop. 

Fishing Boats to Consider:

  • Bass Cat Caracal STS
  • G3 Boats Angler V178 F
  • Yamaha 255 FSH Sport H

Personal watercraft deliver an experience akin to a waterborne motorcycle or snowmobile. Even the largest models are easy to tow, store and maintain. As a whole, they’re also some of the most affordable boating choices on the market. Bonus? Today’s personal watercraft are also more diverse than ever before. High-powered flagships still blast across the water and turn on a dime, but there’s also entry-level, family-friendly cruisers, playful freestylers, long-distance touring models, even wakesport and fishing-specific craft.

Quick facts:

  • Average new boat price: Typically priced between $7,000 – $21,000, depending on length, horsepower, brand and trim level. 
  • Top Brands: Sea-Doo, Yamaha, Kawasaki
  • Average passenger capacity: 1 – 3
  • Primary activities: Freeriding, cruising/touring, watersports, fishing.
  • Advantageous horsepower-to-weight ratios deliver strong acceleration and thrilling top speeds, while hull designs prove agile and responsive.
  • Simple to trailer and store, as well as relatively easy to maintain.
  • Diverse segments now include tamer recreational models, freestyle tricksters, touring-friendly cruisers, tow-sports haulers, even well-equipped fishing models.
  • Though relatively simple to operate, riders must familiarize themselves with the craft’s unique controls, including the fact that throttle is required to turn.
  • Appropriate riding gear is a must, including a Coast Guard-approved lifejacket and neoprene shorts or wetsuit.

Personal Watercraft to Consider:

  • Sea-Doo RXP-X 325
  • Yamaha VX Cruiser HO
  • Sea-Doo Spark Trixx  
– TOW LIKE A PRO – Remember to leave extra stopping room when trailering your boat. At the ramp, be considerate of others but take the time you need to launch and recover your boat safely. Always check tie-downs, safety chains, lights – and the drain plug. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Things to Consider When Buying a Lake Boat

Need more help narrowing down your options? Here are five more things to consider when buying a lake boat.

  • Who will use it: Consider the wants and needs of your entire family, or those you plan to boat with. Make sure your eventual choice can accommodate everyone’s goals. 
  • Safety: Likewise, make sure your crew is safe. Parents of younger children will want a deep cockpit that feels secure. 
  • Size of the lake: Make sure your boat has the size and power to handle the conditions. Larger lakes require larger boats. Some may not be a fit for a boat’s size and style.
  • Horsepower: Don’t test drive a boat solo, load it up like you plan to use it and see if it performs as expected. If not, consider going up in horsepower.
  • Storage: Depending on the activity, friends and family may bring a lot of gear aboard. Check out the storage capacity, as well as the convenience of accessing individual compartments.
  • Price: Be realistic about your budget and buy within your means. Remember added costs, like fuel, insurance, storage, etc.
– ALWAYS USE YOUR ENGINE CUT-OFF LANYARD – Make sure your Engine Cut-Off Switch lanyard is attached to your person whenever you’re underway. They’re now required on all open boats under 26 feet. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Other FAQs About Lake Boats

Have more questions about lake boats? Check out our list of frequently asked questions below, as well as extensive reviews of many lake-worthy boats at boatingmag.com.

  • What is the best hull type for a lake?

It depends on the lake’s size and water conditions. A deep-V hull is a good choice for most any conditions. Flatter-bottom designs are fine if you keep to calmer, more sheltered areas. Pontoons handle mild-to-moderate conditions with relative ease, but can deliver a rough ride if wakes kick up.

  • What is the best engine for a lake boat?

Sterndrive, outboard, inboard/V-drive and jet drive are all common engine choices powering lake boats. Outboards are easiest to upgrade should you want more power. Inboards are great for watersports, but can’t be trimmed like an outboard or sterndrive. Jets offer thrilling handling and low draft, but can suck up weeds and debris if present.

  • What size boat is best for lakes?

Ideally, match your boat to your needs but also your lake. A 29’ bowrider is probably overkill for a 300-acre lake. Likewise, a smaller pontoon is not a good match for larger lakes that can get extremely rough.

  • Are center consoles good lake boats?

An appropriately sized center console is a good choice for a lake if you’re into fishing and want full access around the boat’s perimeter. It’s probably not the best choice if family comfort is important or if you plan to do a lot of watersports.

  • What brands or manufacturers produce good lake boats?

A wide range of manufacturers produce good lake boats, including runabout/deckboat manufacturers Sea Ray, Bayliner, Yamaha, Chaparral, Four Winns, Scarab, Regal, Cobalt, Chris Craft, Monterey, Crownline, Starcraft, and Tahoe; pontoon manufacturers Bennington, Harris, Starcraft, Sylvan, Avalon, Tahoe, Manitou, Barletta, Princecraft, Crest and Viaggio; watersports brands Malibu, MasterCraft, Nautique, Centurion, Moomba, Supra, Tige, Scarab, Regal, Sea Ray; and fishing manufacturers G3, Smoker Craft, Yar-Craft, Bass Cat, Nitro, Charger, Ranger, Skeeter, Starcraft, Triton, and Yamaha.

  • What is the easiest type of lake boat to tow and store?

The easy answer, of course, is that the smaller the boat the easier it is to tow and store. Pontoons are typically the most difficult due to their physical size and unique trailers. Bowriders, deck boats and watersports boats depend on size. Check your vehicle’s owners manual to find its towing capacity. When figuring weight, don’t forget to factor in the weight of the trailer, as well as fuel and gear you have aboard.

  • What kind of lake boats are best for families?

Bowriders, deck boats, pontoons, and wakesports boats are all ideal for families. Again, consider how your family will use the boat to determine which is the best choice. Some fishing boats can also do double-duty as family models if they offer features like convertible seating.

  • Which lake boats are best for skiing, wakeboarding, or other watersports?

While many lake boats — including some pontoons — can pull a skier, wakeboarder or tuber, the best recreational rides will typically be offered by a runabout or deck boat with sufficient power. More avid enthusiasts will be best served by ski or wake-specific models designed to produce the ideal wake conditions for their individual sport. Wakesurfing? You must have a boat that keeps the propeller tucked well under the hull to keep the surf zone safe. Inboards/V-drives, forward-facing sterndrives and jet-drive engines all fit the bill.

  • More: coast guard , Fishing Boats , Personal Watercraft , Pontoon Boats , Runabouts , Water Sports Foundation

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Best Pontoon Boats For The Money

Best Pontoon Boats For The Money | Life of Sailing

Last Updated by

Jacob Collier

January 31, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

  • Pontoon owners should do extensive research before purchasing
  • The best boats allow for easy transformation of seating areas.
  • Ensure that you are purchasing a large enough motor to do what you want.
  • Take the boat you are considering on a test drive if at all possible.

‍ Pontoon boats are growing in popularity across American waterways, and you want one. But with so many brands, what are the best values in pontoon boats?

We made a list of the best pontoon boats and why we think these have value.

  • SeaDoo Switch
  • Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 XL Select
  • Lowes SS 210
  • PrinceCraft Jazz 190

Barletta Cabrio

Bennington lx sport.

  • Harris Grand Mariner

Avalon Excalibur LTD

Premier escalante 350, manitou 27 xt srw.

There is no question that pontoon boats have been outselling every other kind of watercraft on the market. You can use a pontoon boat for cruising, watersports, or even pulling your crazy cousin on an inner tube. A pontoon boat can do it all. But which one is best? What brand of pontoon should you choose? What amenities should you purchase? What is the best boat to meet your needs and be affordable enough not to break the piggy bank? This article will examine some of the best values in pontoon boats on the market today so that you be confident that you are making the right decision for your recreational activities.

Table of contents

‍ Who Invented the Pontoon Boat?

If you could take a deck and float it out on the water, or put a motor on it and drive it anywhere you wanted, you would understand the basic premise of a pontoon boat. A pontoon boat is loosely based on a catamaran-style watercraft, where twin aluminum tubes are welded to the bottom of the decking and powered by one or two outboard motors. An aluminum or fiberglass fence (called the playpen) is built around the edge of the decking, and different seating configurations are built inside that area. A Pontoon becomes a floating room, with the furniture arranged along the rails as the boat’s owner feels is best for their situation.

A Minnesota farmer named Ambrose Weeres is credited with inventing pontoons as we know them today. He welded several oil drums together end to end and built a wood deck, and then he tied the two together. The idea worked, and soon, the old farmer was building these boats for friends and family. After several boating manufacturers began to see the potential, the pontoon boat began to appear in lots of lakes and rivers. In the 1970s, many manufacturers jumped into the water and developed their version of this new and wonderful boat, which boaters were happy to purchase.

What are Pontoons Used for on the Water?

One of the attractions of a pontoon boats is the versatility that they provide. Because of the flat deck, the possibilities for different seating arrangements are endless. Passengers do not need to sit facing front, as in a traditional boat. Instead, they can lounge on benches built to wrap around the edge of the deck, which promotes conversation and intimacy. If the owner wants to put in a couple of fishing stations, then with some simple modifications, the pontoon’s playpen area can be added.

Pontoons are great cruisers, but they can also be excellent fishing platforms, or if the engine is powerful enough, engage in water sports. Many families use pontoon boats for water sports, like tubing, water skiing, and swimming. These types of watercraft are best used for freshwater applications, although some pontoons are used for saltwater cruising. Due to the vulnerability in high winds, the pontoon differs from the kind of boat that can handle deep seas.

What are Some Questions to Ask Before Purchasing a Pontoon?

There are several questions before deciding which pontoon boat to purchase. One of the best things a pontoon owner can do is to reflect on the type and size of the boat that will best fit the needs of their situation. Many owners have rushed out to the dealer, bought the first thing they saw, and then regretted their purchase.

  • What is the activity that my family enjoys most on the water?
  • Will my boat be used for skiing, tubing, cruising, or as a fishing vessel?
  • How many people will be traveling on the boat?
  • Do I need fishing stations or multiple swimming decks?
  • What other expenses do I need to consider, like a trailer, insurance, or storage costs?
  • Are there specific amenities I know my family will want?
  • What are the owner’s online reviews for the brand I am considering?
  • What is the budget that I am working with?

The Best Pontoon Boats For Value-Minded Budgets

Before you plop down money for a new pontoon boat, let’s review some of the best pontoon and tri-toons available on the market. Choose one of these if you want to purchase one of the best pontoon boats for the money at under $50k.

Sea-Doo Switch

Sea-Doo Switch

If you had to pick one innovative, affordable pontoon that seems to be everybody’s favorite, with sales that are on fire, it would be the Sea-Doo Switch. This compact pontoon has become so popular that Boating Magazine named it “Boat of the Year” for 2022.

Many millennials love this boat. The company knew the one rap that PWC (personal watercraft) have is that a jet ski only holds two people. So, if you have a group of three or more, someone stays on the beach while the other two play, or you buy another jet ski. The Switch solves the problem of what to do when you have a group, and everybody wants to be on the water together by marrying a jet ski, three tubes, and some decking space.

You drive the Switch just like you drive a jet ski. The helm consists of a chair with motorcycle-like handlebars that the driver grabs to steer and power the craft. (If you have ever ridden a bike, chances are you can drive a Sea-Doo Switch).

Another innovation is how owners can modify the furniture. The manufacturer uses composite movable tiles that allow for different arrangements, even on the fly. There is adequate storage for a small pontoon, rod holders, and a smooth ride. The Switch seats six - ten passengers. A trailer is included with the Switch, which is priced at $21,995. At this point, with all that it offers, it wouldn’t surprise us if it won the same award two years in a row.

Things We Like:

  • A boat that is easy to drive
  • Quick ability to change seating arrangements
  • A Best value for the price
  • Jet Ski motor uses less fuel
  • Storage space underneath.

Things We Didn’t Like:

  • Unstable in rough water - no saltwater applications

Build Your Boat: To build and price your Switch, see the Sea-Doo website.

Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16

Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16

Instead of catching perch and baby bass from a dock or the bank of the lake, wouldn’t it be great if you could find a way to take the dock to your favorite fishing hole? Well, the Bass Buggy does precisely that very thing. On this little fishing platform, you have room to spread out, cast multiple lines, and even take the boat close enough to the shallows to land some giant bass, catfish, or whatever type of fish you’ve been hoping will strike.

Even the basic model of the Sun Tracker Bass Buggy has an outboard motor that will move you across the lake and get you to your favorite fishing holes. The inner playpen provides plenty of room for intimate family adventures and has a decent seating capacity. The boat has cushioned fishing chairs, plenty of rod holders, and a storage well to stash your latest catch. The Sun Tracker is priced at less than twenty grand, which makes it an excellent fishing pontoon.

  • Good warranty
  • Great boat for small families
  • Excellent fishing boat
  • Built in Missouri
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Room for tackle and rods.

Things We Don’t Like:

  • 50 HP engine means you cruise more slowly.
  • Not made for saltwater applications.

Build Your Boat: The Sun Tracker website will let you build your Bass Buggy.

Princecraft Jazz 190

Princecraft Jazz 190

The Jazz 190 is an excellent value for the money, considering that you find many amenities you might expect in other, more expensive pontoons. The pontoon boat sells for around thirty thousand and remains popular among boating enthusiasts. The Princecraft is versatile enough to accomplish almost anything you ask of it. A swim platform extends off the rear to give swimmers clearance into the water. A stainless steel boarding ladder makes re-entry easy.

Sun worshippers will have lots of space to lay out and soak up rays, and fishing stations allow for fantastic family interactions.

One thing that we love about this pontoon is all the available storage. There is ample space under the seats for all items and cubbies scattered around for smaller things like shoes or sandals. The Jazz 190 can seat six, and while there are two fishing chairs on the front swim deck, the Captain and 2nd mate chairs are toward the rear (where the live well is located). The front swivel chairs can be removed and stored when not needed. Four adults have room to fish without getting into each other’s way.

What We Like:

  • Portable gas tank makes refueling easier
  • Lots of storage
  • Love the four separate stations
  • An affordable boat that looks more expensive

What We Didn’t Like:

  • Small gas tank limits range
  • Built in Canada

Build Your Boat: To build and price your Jazz 190, see the Premier website.

The Best Mid-Range Pontoons for the Money

Lowe ss 210.

Lowe SS 210

The Lowe boats make almost everyone’s best pontoon boat lists. While the pontoon boat has many of the same features as most others, the 25” aluminum tubes are a bit wider, which helps lift the boat a bit, and smoothes the ride. A 115 HP ELPT Mercury outboard is the motor plant, with a top speed of 50 mph, which is as close to flying across the water as you can get.

The 20-foot deck is spacious, and the interior playpen seats 11, which gives your passengers room to walk around comfortably. There is lots of storage underneath the bench seats, and the Captain’s chair is comfortable with upgraded vinyl. The boat exudes a rich and nostalgic feel, and is priced near $55k when nicely equipped.

What We Liked:

  • Very affordably priced
  • Good sized motor
  • Swim transom fits more than one.
  • Warranty could be better.

Build Your Boat: The Lowe website will help you build your SS 210.

Of all the pontoon boat brands, Barletta is one of our favorites. This beautiful tri-toon offers the most amenities for the money and gets our nod for the best pontoon boat. The Cabrio is not the most affluent pontoon that the company makes, but as an entry-level luxury pontoon, it has a lot to offer.

From the raised Captain’s chair to the quad lounging area, this boat is a joy to behold. (Even my dog was impressed with the feeding drawer that pops out from the side of the helm just off the helm area. Solid I-beam cross members provide stability and support for the decking but also aid in smoothing the ride. Vibration pods, wave tamers, and reinforced nose cones ensure that you can safely navigate into any harbor.

There are nice details everywhere, like integrated armrests with Yeti cup holders on the front lounge seats, and a rear seating area that easily transforms into a full-sized bed. The bimini top is powered and moves with the flip of a switch, and a rear ski tow bar allows everyone to enjoy a little tubing. There are lots of safety features that you find with other pontoon brands, but we were impressed with the frame built around the outboard, to help give swimmers on the rear deck something to hold onto, as they walk over the slick rear tow deck. It’s details like this that make Barletts one of our best pontoon boat brands.

  • Pet-friendly
  • Solid construction
  • Powered bimini top
  • Safety features like stainless steel rails around the outboard.
  • Not as sleek or athletic as other pontoon boats.

Build Your Boat: The Barletta website can help you build and price your Cabrio.

One of the newest players in the pontoon boat world is Bennington Marine. Since its inception in 1997, Bennington Boats has consistently risen to the top of the makers of quality luxury pontoons and tri-toons.

The LX Sport is our pick for the best luxury pontoon boat, even though it is not the most expensive tri-toon Bennington makes. (Their QX 30 is over $300,000, and the RX line is among the most popular boats sold). New for 2023, the LX Sport seeks to steal some design cues from its RX brothers and has succeeded in inheriting a fast, athletic appearance.

There are high-quality features everywhere. The interior has a small galley, three lounge areas, and a removable dining table with four chairs. Ample storage compartments under the seating positions make stowing items like anchors and tools accessible.

One of the best features of the LX Sport is the helm area. It is raised a step to help elevate the helm and provide a clear line of sight for keeping track of tubers. While the driver needs to remember the step from the deck to the Captain’s chair, there is a feeling of importance when a driver sits higher than everyone else. A well-equipped LX Sport will set you back less than $100,000, but we think it is worth the money.

  • Bennington reputation for quality
  • Built in Indiana
  • Lifetime warranty on structure and pontoon tubes.

What We Don’t Like:

Build Your Boat: The Bennington website will help you build your LX Sport.

The Best Luxury Pontoons for the Money

If you want a more affluent feel on the water, check out some of our picks for the best luxury pontoon boats.

Harris Grand Mariner 250

Harris Grand Mariner 250

The Harris Grand Mariner is another award winner (applause, please). Boating Industry has named the Harris Grand Mariner 250 one of boating’s top products for 2022. Now, lest you think that this is some participation trophy everyone gets, we can assure you it isn’t. It is one of the top prizes in the boating industry. Consider it the “Oscars” of the marine industry.

Harris Boats incorporates fiberglass in their topsides rather than painted aluminum. The fiberglass is easier to mold, lighter, and less wind resistant. The result was a boat that pontoon owners couldn’t stop drooling over. (Not only does the fiberglass improve the look, but the lighter pontoon boat uses less fuel).

At a 27-foot deck, there is enough room for entertaining guests, which makes it a dynamic pontoon cruiser. An extended rear deck is perfect for swimmers. The 200 HP four-stroke engine is more than adequate for any kind of water sports that you want to do and the lifting strakes help the boat rise above the waves. Hydraulic steering makes cruising very comfortable. The powered bimini top and pop-up cleats are a nice touch. Lighted cup holders help keep things contained where they need to be. (A pontoon boat can never have enough cup holders, just saying). The helm station is functional and high-tech, which we love.

The Harris Grand Mariner will set you back around $125,000, but considering how good it rides, many pontoon owners feel this is the best boat for the money.

  • Multiple engine choices.
  • Many standard amenities
  • Fiberglass creates a sporty look, less wind drag
  • Lighter craft than other pontoons

Build Your Boat: To Build Your Grand Mariner 250, see Harris Boat’s website .

This Michigan boat maker has made every component that goes into their boats for decades. (every bolt, bracket, and baseboard is made in-house). Since most pontoon boats use components from other smaller manufacturers. This dynamic gives the company a high degree of control and parts quality because they don’t depend on separate companies to make anything.

Excalibur LTD is their flagship model. The tri-toon seems more stable and secure on the waves. Beautifully polished aluminum walls with fiberglass accents give this pontoon a luxurious image and make it a real head-turner. The deck is over 27 feet long and has enough space for over a dozen people. Twin 450HP outboards provide the power needed and are almost too much engine thrust.

One of the best features is the portside food prep area, with a fridge and storage cabinets. galley, refrigerator, and food prep area.  These amenities make the Excalibur the ultimate party boat. We loved the RGB underwater lighting and cupholders situated in the armrests. The Avalon Excalibur LTD is luxury at its finest. This luxury boat is the perfect pontoon boat for saltwater applications.

  • Electric everything.
  • Reclining helm chair
  • Built in Michigan
  • A refrigerator and galley for preparing food.
  • RGB lighting is very chic.

What We Didn’t Like

  • Might be too much boat for fresh-water applications
  • Options are costly.

Build Your Boat: The Avalon website will help you build your Excalibur.  

Best Ultra-Luxury Pontoon Boats for the Money

There is a massive market for folks who like to have the finest possessions. Here are a couple of good choices if you have the money to spend.

As far as double-decker party boats go, there is nothing better than the Escalante 350 by Premier Boats. This boat is the kind of party barge that has everything for everyone. The kids can use the slide, and the teenage diva of a daughter can sunbathe on the upper deck lounge. Need a place for drinks and appetizers while hosting the HOA? The main deck of the Escalante has enough deck space to accommodate.

The Escalante 350 has a spacious main deck with seating everywhere. Ultimate features like a galley with fridge and food prep area. (Add a charcoal grill, and you could have a party barge that sells food). The stern lounger areas are lush and convenient, and there is more than enough storage under the seat areas or in the countless cubbies and storage pockets.

This boat is more than adequate for saltwater applications as long as you intend to navigate the coastal inlets and harbors that are so much a part of coastal life. The upper deck could mean a more frail craft in high winds, so deep waters and open seas with rough waves should probably be avoided.  Premier makes this boat in Big Lake, Minnesota, and this pontoon boat is right at home in the land of a thousand lakes. The Escalante retails for around $375,000.

  • Great cruising boat
  • Water slide from upper deck
  • Docking lights change color - improves the nighttime look of the boat.
  • Amenities everywhere
  • Built in Minnesota
  • Changing room.
  • Not for deep sea travels.

Build Your Boat: The Premier’s website can help you build your own Escalante 350

If you are looking for a very fast high-quality pontoon boat, you will want to investigate Manitou. Their XT model scoots across the water at close to 80 mph (although we wouldn’t recommend going that fast). Manitou uses a V-shaped tube for their tri-toons, and this dynamic allows better water displacement as the boat travels through the waves.

Many pontoon owners love this brand. Founded in 1986, the company dedicated itself to building luxury pontoons with premium materials. The XT has all the amenities you might expect, six lifting strakes, 900 HP dual engines, and a 90-gallon tank for plenty of range.

The painted fiberglass walls are exquisite looking, with contrasting accents. This pontoon boat uses the latest technology, including controlling your pontoon via a smartphone, key fob, or even a Garmin Quatix watch that every owner receives as a part of the purchase. There is a joystick for the inboard trolling motors allows maneuvering in tight spaces. The helm station has the latest tech stuff like GPS, touchscreen controls, and well-lit displays.

The boat offers interior seating areas made with CoolTouch vinyl have lots of storage space. Fishing seats are located at the rear, with a live well. A tow bar hangs from a power watersports tower that can be managed from the helm by an electric motor. The folks at Manitou will build you one for around $350,000. (There is so much to like about this boat, we can’t list everything that makes this pontoon the best of the luxury pontoon boats we reviewed).

  • Lots of Tech
  • A joystick for tight spaces
  • The power bimini top and watersports tower
  • 900 HP will set speed records
  • RGB lighting
  • Lifetime structural warranty
  • 10-year hull and deck coverage
  • Nothing. (This boat is as close to perfect as it can get)

Build Your Boat: The Manitou website will help you build and price your 27 XT SRW.

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Born into a family of sailing enthusiasts, words like “ballast” and “jibing” were often a part of dinner conversations. These days Jacob sails a Hallberg-Rassy 44, having covered almost 6000 NM. While he’s made several voyages, his favorite one is the trip from California to Hawaii as it was his first fully independent voyage.

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GameRant

Best Ships For Expeditions In Anno 1800

  • Expeditions in Anno 1800 are crucial for discovering new territories and resources.
  • Different ships have different capabilities, with some better suited for expeditions than others.
  • The Extravaganza Steamer is the best ship for expeditions, combining speed, durability, and a large inventory.

Expeditions are a crucial part of gameplay in Anno 1800 since they enable players to discover distant territories and foreign items or resources that may not be initially available. There are several types of expedition, and each will have its own specific purpose and requirements, but generally, there are some ships better suited to the task than others. Generally, expeditions will require speed, durability, and a decent amount of space for either Cargo or Items - or ideally, both.

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In addition to preparing the expedition with adequate Skills and Supplies, a sturdy vessel will be required for transportation. Fortunately, players are able to produce a range of ships suited to the task from both the standard Shipyard and the Steam Shipyard, which can be unlocked later in the game. Each ship comes with an associated cost and build time, along with some special unlock requirements in some cases.

Versatile Early Ship For Easier Expeditions

  • Hitpoints: 2,000
  • Speed: 4.2 - 18.7

The Frigate is a good general-purpose vessel and can be used for both warfare and exploration. This ship can be a good cheap starting point for early expeditions since it can be produced via the starting Shipyard. The Frigate is armed with 2 cannons and possesses 3 Cargo Slots along with 2 Item Slots .

While the ship is very well-balanced, especially during the early game, it may not be enough to last on more difficult voyages, such as to the Arctic . Additionally, players should be wary if they are at war or in the proximity of powerful pirates since the Frigate can only sustain a relatively small amount of damage before being destroyed.

Heavily Armored Steam Boat With Average Carrying Capacity

  • Hitpoints: 3,000
  • Speed: 10.6

The Monitor is the Steamboat equivalent of the Frigate, and while it has a reduced carrying capacity when compared with some other vessels, it more than makes up for it in durability. With just 2 Cargo Slots and 2 Item Slots , it is best to deploy the Monitor on smaller tasks such as Botanical or Discovery expeditions.

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In order to unlock the Monitor, players must first reach the "Investors" population tier and construct a Steam Shipyard. Following this, the Monitor has an expensive purchase price of $350,000 and a lengthy build time of 12 minutes. For these reasons, it is often best to deploy the Monitor for warfare purposes rather than expeditions when other vessels are available.

Ship-of-the-Line

Powerful war vessel with medium inventory.

  • Hitpoints: 4,000
  • Speed: 3.2 - 14.4

The Ship of The Line is the best choice when sending a boat on an expedition while still using the standard Shipyard. These powerful boats come equipped with two decks of cannons on both sides and a handy carrying capacity of 3 Cargo Slots and 3 Item Slots . The Ship of The Line is equally adept for the purposes of warfare and should have no problem handling smaller enemy vessels, especially in the early game.

Players can also construct a Royal Ship of the Line provided that they have obtained legendary ship specialist Sir Milfoy Credenza-Belfry-Guscott and equipped him in the Harbormaster's Office. Alternatively, the Royal Ship of the Line can be purchased from pirate AI characters once a trade agreement has been made.

Trading Vessel With Exceptional Carrying Capacity

  • Speed: 10.4

The Cargo Ship is arguably one of the best base-game ships to use for expeditions due to its large carrying capacity. Aside from this, the stats of the Cargo Ship are quite average, but a total of 6 Cargo Slots and 2 Item Slots make it ideal for Archaeological, Botanical, or Zoological expeditions.

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Though the Cargo Ship is more expensive to maintain than some smaller boats. It is generally cheaper to build and maintain than most of the warships and, therefore, makes an excellent ship for expeditions as well as trade routes.

Extravaganza Steamer

Fast and spacious steamer with special unlock requirements.

  • Hitpoints: 5,000

The Extravaganza Steamer is by far the best choice of boat for expeditions in Anno 1800. Combining durability and speed with a huge inventory space , the boat has everything needed for a successful and prosperous expedition to take place. With a total of 6 Cargo Slots and 3 Item Slots , no other ship is able to carry as much, let alone with the speed of this Steamer.

In order to unlock the Extravaganza Steamer, players will first need to equip the Specialist, Anna Union , in their Harbormaster's Office. Once this is done, players can then build the Extravaganza Steamer in their Steam Shipyard.

Great Eastern

The creme-de-la-creme of industrial era seafaring.

  • Hitpoints: 6,500
  • Speed: 11.0

The Great Eastern is a legendary ship that players can acquire from Sir Archibald Blake by building a World's Fair and completing the "The Floating City" quest. The ship has a total capacity of 8 Cargo Slots and 3 Item Slots , making it entirely unrivaled in terms of what it is able to bring back from expeditions.

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Players are only allowed to have 1 Great Eastern at a time unless they own the Land of Lions DLC , which will grant them the option to build another via a Research Institute. Since these ships are rare and particularly well suited to the task, they make for the best ship to send on just about any type of expedition in Anno 1800 .

Platform(s) Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PS5, PC

Released 2019-04-20

Developer(s) Ubisoft

Genre(s) Real-Time Strategy, Simulation

Best Ships For Expeditions In Anno 1800

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While boating can be a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors, buying a boat can be expensive. Depending on the type of boat you get and your budget, you could spend less than $20,000 into the millions. A new sailboat can range anywhere from $100,000 to $500,000, while a used sailboat can start as low as $10,000, according to the National Boat Owners Association .

We’ve determined some of the best personal loans to buy a boat based on factors like maximum loan amount, APR, loan repayment term, and credit score requirements.

Compare personal loan rates for boat loans of February 2024

Fox Money rating

Fixed (APR)

7.49% - 25.49%

Loan Amounts

$5000 to $100000

Min. Credit Score

on Credible’s website

View Details

Lightstream is one of three Credible partner lenders to offer loan amounts up to $100,000, which makes it ideal for financing large expenses like home improvements or weddings. Funds are available as soon as the same day you apply, and you'll have up to 12 years to repay certain types of loans, including home improvement loans, RV loans, and boat loans. There are no origination fees, and rates are low — as of this writing, Lightstream's lowest APR beats SoFi's advertised lowest APR by 1 percentage point. But you'll need good credit to qualify.

Note that unlike most lenders, Lightstream does not let you prequalify. Nor does it provide a contact phone number next to its customer service hours on its website.

Loan amount

$5,000 to $100,000

Repayment terms

2 - 12 years, depending on loan purpose

Eligibility

Available in all states except RI and VT

Min. income

Does not disclose

Customer service

Soft credit check

Time to get funds

As soon as the next business day

Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, and other purposes

8.49% - 17.99%

$600 to $50000

PenFed is a credit union that offers personal loans to applicants with good credit. Though you'll need to become a member to receive a loan, membership is open to everyone. PenFed shines with no origination fees, small available loan amounts, and low interest rates. If you don't have a FICO score above 700, you may not qualify on your own, but can apply with a cosigner with good credit — which is not something most lenders offer.

PenFed doesn't have a minimum income amount, and offers live chat and an entirely online loan application process.

$600 to $50,000

Unsuccessful payment fee, late fee 

No flat restriction

Phone, email, live chat

Typically 1 to 2 business days after verification

Debt consolidation, home improvement, credit card refinancing

12 to 60 months

8.49% - 35.99%

$1000 to $50000

Upgrade has a suite of features that make it a very attractive lender: competitive interest rates, discounts for direct pay and autopay, as soon as same-day funding, up to seven-year repayment terms, and nationwide availability. Plus, loans are available to fair-credit borrowers, and you don't need to input your Social Security number to prequalify on the website. Upgrade even offers secured personal loans, which is not common among lenders.

However, Upgrade does charge an origination fee of 1.85% to 9.99%. You must have a FICO score of at least 600 and a minimum income of $25,000 annually to qualify.

$1,000 to $50,000 ($3,005 minimum in GA; $6,600 minimum in MA)

2 to 7 years

Origination fee

Autopay and direct pay

Available in all states

1 business day

Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, major purchase, other

8.99% - 29.99%

SoFi stands out for offering no-fee personal loans with competitive rates, high loan amounts, long loan terms, discounts for autopay and direct pay, and funding as soon as the same day. Plus, SoFi prioritizes convenience for existing and potential customers with features like live chat and an easy prequalification process that doesn't require your Social Security number. Once you have a loan with SoFi, you may be eligible for unemployment protection and unemployment assistance.

The main catch is that you need to qualify for a loan with SoFi, which can be hard to do if you don't have good credit. You also won't be able to apply with a cosigner, since SoFi doesn't accept cosigners; nor does it offer secured personal loans. 

Loan Amount

2 - 7 years

Option to pay an origination fee (up to 6%) in exchange for a lower rate

Autopay, direct pay

Available in all states 

Typically within a few days, given approval and bank account verification, but sometimes within the same day

Solely for personal, family, or household uses

$20000 to $200000

BHG Money stands out for offering the largest loan amounts — up to $200,000 — of any Credible partner lenders. Simply put, if you need an unsecured personal loan over $100,000, there are very few places to look, but BHG is one. You'll have up to 10 years to repay the loan, but you'll need an annual income of at least $100,000 to qualify and a FICO score that's 660 or higher. However, if you have a cosigner that meets these requirements, BHG will consider your application.

Loan amounts start at $20,000, so look elsewhere for small loans. And BHG charges a modest origination fee between 2% and 4%, depending on your financial profile. Loan funds are available within three to 14 days of loan approval. Note that you can't prequalify with BHG.

$20,000 - $200,000

3 - 10 years

Origination fees, late fees

Available in all states except Maryland and Illinois

Email, phone

Not on lender's site

In as few as 5 days

Debt consolidation, baby (adoption), engagement ring financing, moving (relocation), business, home improvement, special occasion, cosmetic procedures, major purchase, taxes, credit card refinancing, medical expenses, vacation, wedding, other

Fox Business does not make or arrange loans.

Best boat loans

All of the following lenders offer loans that can be used to finance a boat, but you may need to apply directly on their websites.

personal loans for excellent credit

8.99 - 29.99%

Pros and cons

No fees required

Large loan amounts available

Autopay and direct pay discounts

Same day funding

Long loan terms available

Good credit required

5,000 minimum loan amount

More details

Best Credit Union for Personal Loans

8.49 - 17.99%

No origination fee

Allows cosigners

Small loan amounts available

May fund in 1 to 2 business days

No discounts

personal loans for fair credit

8.49 - 35.99%

Can fund in as little as 1 business day

Longer loan terms available

High maximum origination fee

Cosigners not accepted

home improvement loans

LightStream

7.49 - 25.49%

Same-day funding available

High maximum loan amount

No prequalification process

Not available in Vermont

Large personal loans

Eligible applicants can borrow up to $200,000

Considers borrowers with fair credit

Long repayment terms

Cosigners allowed

Not available in MD or IL

Minimum income required of $100,000 annually

Methodology

We evaluated the best personal loan lenders for boat loans based on factors such as customer experience, minimum fixed rate, maximum loan amount, funding time, loan terms, fees, discounts, and whether cosigners are accepted. Our team of experts gathered information from each lender’s website, customer service department, directly from our partners, and via email support. Each data point was verified by a third party to make sure it was accurate and up to date.

How do boat loans work?

Boat loans work similarly to car loans or any other type of installment loan. You’ll need to qualify based on your credit score, income, and other financial factors. Specialized boat loan lenders generally also require that you make a down payment of 10% to 20% of the boat’s purchase price.

Good to know

If you use a personal loan to buy a boat, you typically won’t need to make a down payment or get an appraisal for a used boat.

Banks, credit unions, personal loan lenders , and boat dealers all offer boat loans. You can also get them from a boat loan lender that specializes in boat financing. Secured loans require that you pledge the boat as collateral on the loan, while others, like unsecured personal loans , do not.

Regardless of which type of boat loan you get, most have a fixed interest rate and fixed monthly payment for the duration of the loan’s term. Repayment terms vary, but can range up to 12 years for a personal loan and 10 to 20 years for a specialized boat loan. As mentioned above, loan amounts for boat loans range from less than $20,000 into the millions, depending on the type.

When comparing loans, you’ll want to consider the annual percentage rate (APR) over just the interest rate alone. The APR includes the interest rate and upfront fees the lender charges. Boat loan APRs tend to start around 7%, but can range much higher if you need a loan with bad credit . Check out: Where to get a personal loan

Using a boat loan calculator can help you estimate what your payment might be. For example, if you were to take out a $30,000 unsecured personal loan with a 13% APR and a 10-year payment term, your monthly payment would be $448.

Financing a used boat

You can also finance a used boat instead of a new one. Doing so could save you money, but used boat financing has more stringent requirements than financing a new boat does. For example, most boat loan lenders will examine the age, value, and condition of your used boat before they will finance it. And some may not fund boats over a certain age. But if you decided to get an unsecured personal loan, an appraisal won’t be required.

Types of boat loans

If you want to finance a boat, you have options. All tend to have a fixed interest rate and monthly payment.

Secured loans

Many boat loans are secured loans because the boat serves as collateral. In other words, the lender could repossess your boat if you’re unable to make payments.

Learn more: What are collateral loans?

Home equity financing

A home equity loan is secured by the equity you have in your home. Home equity loans are disbursed in a lump sum and tend to have fixed interest rates and repayment terms. A HELOC is a revolving account that lets you draw funds when you need them up to a certain limit. Home equity financing can be risky, since you could lose your home if you fail to repay.

Unsecured loans

Unsecured loans, like most personal loans, don’t require collateral, and so tend to have higher interest rates and higher credit score minimums. If you have a low credit score, you may not qualify, or the interest rate and fees might not be worth it. The advantage is that that if you do qualify, getting an unsecured loan can be quick and relatively easy. Loans can be funded the same day you apply, in some cases, and no down payment is required. Plus, if you miss payments, the lender can’t take your boat.

Personal loans are a common type of unsecured loan — if you go this route and are approved, you’ll receive the money as a lump sum that you can then use to buy your boat.

Pros and cons of boat loans

A boat loan can get you out on the water, but it’s important to consider the pros and cons, and the bigger picture, before pulling the trigger.

  • Flexibility: One of the biggest perks of using a boat loan is that you can buy a boat when you can’t pay for it out of pocket.
  • Long repayment terms available: Long repayment terms have lower monthly payments than shorter ones do, and can help you afford payments over an extended period of time.
  • Predictable payments: Boat loans often have fixed rates for the length of the repayment term, so you can budget for predictable monthly payments.
  • Timely payments can improve your credit : Like most loans, as long as your lender reports to the three credit bureaus, a boat loan will be reflected on your credit report, as will your payments. If you consistently make your payments on time, it can help improve your credit score .
  • Finance other boat expenses: Some boat lenders allow you to finance other aspects of owning and operating a boat, such as delivery and refitting.
  • Expensive if you don’t have good credit: With average or below-average credit, a boat loan can be costly, since you can expect to pay a higher rate relative to someone with good credit. For example, rates on personal loans can range up to 35.99% — at a rate that high, it’s crucial to consider whether owning a boat is worth it.
  • May require a down payment: Some boat loan lenders require a down payment of 10% to 20% of the boat’s price. However, you won’t need to provide a down payment for an unsecured personal loan.
  • Could lose your boat if you default (secured loans): If you get a collateralized loan, you could lose your property if you fail to make payments on time.
  • Fees: Many loans are subject to fees, such as origination and processing fees. Shop around to compare loan terms and understand the fees different lenders charge.
  • Stringent requirements for used boats: If you get a used boat, you will be subject to stricter requirements than were you financing a new boat, such as an appraisal.

Related: Average personal loan interest rates 

How to qualify for a boat loan

To qualify for a boat loan, you will typically need a good credit score, a low-enough debt-to-income ratio (DTI), and sufficient income to afford the payment. You may or may not need a down payment, depending on the type of lender.

When you apply, lenders will usually request recent pay stubs or a tax return, along with proof of address, insurance, and banking details. Your DTI represents your minimum monthly debt payments divided by your gross (before tax) monthly income. Most lenders prefer a DTI below 35%, but some will consider your application if your DTI is over 40%. Lenders may also require information about the boat, such as the year, model, and appraisal value.

How to apply for a personal loan for a boat

If you’re ready to apply for a personal loan to buy a boat, the process is simple and only requires a few steps.

  • Research lenders: Start by researching lenders that match your criteria, like loan amount, loan term, or minimum credit score requirements. To see multiple lenders in one place, visit an online loan marketplace to explore your borrowing options.
  • Prequalify: Once you find lenders that may be a good match, prequalify with those that offer this option. Prequalification does not impact your credit score and provides an estimate of the rate and terms you may be eligible for. Note that a hard credit pull — which can temporarily lower your score by a few points — will follow if you submit a formal application. Prequalification is not an offer of credit, and final rates may be higher. Also reach out to lenders offering secured boat loans for an estimate of APRs and loan terms.
  • Compare lenders: Next, compare loan quotes to find the best boat loan for your situation. Consider loan APRs, repayment terms, and monthly payments, along with lender fees. Use a loan calculator to see how much you’ll pay in interest to buy a boat.
  • Pick a loan and apply: Once you’ve settled on a lender, fill out an official application and submit your supporting documents, such as proof of income and information about the boat you want to finance, if required.
  • Get your funds and your boat: If you’re approved for a loan, the lender will send you a loan agreement to review and sign. Once you sign, expect to receive the funds as soon as the same or next business day. Some lenders may take up to a week.

Check out: Best fast personal loans

Boat loans FAQ

What is the minimum credit score required for a boat loan.

Each lender has different credit score requirements , but you typically need to have a credit score of at least 600 to qualify for most boat loans. The higher your credit score, the more likely you are to qualify for better loan terms and a lower interest rate.

Can I get a boat loan with bad credit?

Yes, some lenders may offer loans for bad credit, but you will have fewer options. Bad-credit boat loans may also come with higher fees and loan costs overall. To improve your options, lower your DTI by paying down existing debt (this could also lower your credit utilization). If you can wait for a boat, take steps to improve your credit by making on time payments as well.

Are boat loan interest rates fixed or variable?

Boat loans are usually offered at a fixed interest rate. This means you'd have the same payment amount during the life of the loan, regardless of how interest rates change.

Can I use a boat loan to purchase a used boat?

Yes, depending on the type of boat loan, you can use one to purchase a new or used boat. However, some used boat financing has more stringent requirements. Lenders that specialize in boat loans will scrutinize the age, value, and condition of your boat before financing it. Depending on your lender and term length, there may be slightly different interest rates offered for a used boat loan.

Can I refinance a boat loan?

Yes, you may be able to refinance your boat loan to lock in a better interest rate, remove a co-borrower, or lower your monthly payment. You’ll want to maintain a good credit score by making payments on time. Shop around and compare loan rates before settling on a new lender.

Related Articles:

  • Best personal loan rates
  • Best personal loans
  • Best installment loans
  • Best home improvement loans
  • What is a personal line of credit?
  • What is a signature loan?

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