20 ft powerboat

19' SeaRay 185 Sport

19' Ski Supreme 1985 Ski Supreme

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19' Sea Ray Sport

19' Bayliner 195 Bowrider

19' Wellcraft 190 Classic

Heritage Series

The 208CC is loaded with premium features and thoughtful design elements. — PowerBoat Television

The 208CC has redefined what a 20-foot fishing boat can do.

Tackle the toughest conditions, dive the reefs, or cruise the harbor. The 208CC features an expansive cockpit and a large walk-in console with a portable head. Gunwale rod racks, rod holders and several options for livewells maximize every inch of usable space in this center console.

208CC Virtual Tour

208cc specifications, features & options gallery.

Additional info, if available, will be shown here.

Standard Features

• PermaGrid® Fiberglass Stringer System
• Limited Lifetime Structural Hull Warranty
• NMMA, ABYC & CE Certified
• Self Bailing Non-Skid Decks
• NO WOOD All Composite Construction
• Closed-Cell Foam Flotation
• Variable Deadrise Deep V Hull
• High Density Composite Transom
• White Gelcoat Hull Color
• Welded Stainless 316L Steel Console Grab Rail
• 8″ Stainless Steel Cleats (6)
• Stainless Steel Bow and Stern Eyes (3)
• Welded 316L Stainless Steel 1″ Split Bow Rail
• Folding Recessed Telescoping Transom Ladder
• Walk-Thru Transom Door w/ Stainless Steel Latch
• Stainless Steel Drink Holders on Console (2)
• Stainless Steel Drink Holders on Bow Platform (2)
• Heavy Duty White Rubrail w/ Black Insert
• Powdercoated Aluminum T-Top with Electronics Box, Rod Holders (4), & LED Spreader Lights (2)
• 3/8″ Clear Acrylic Windshield
• Walk-in Console (5’2″ head-room)
• Stainless Steel Steering Wheel
• Hydraulic Seastar® Steering w/ Tilt Helm
• Ritchie Compass
• Console Mounted Porta-Potti
• Stainless Steel Cockpit Toe Rails (2)
• Raw Water Washdown Outlet
• Fresh Water Shower w/ 6 Gallon Tank
• Radar Plate for T-Top or Hardtop
• Canvas T-Top w/ Rod Holders (4) & LED Spreader Lights (2)
• LED Navigation Lights
• LED Cockpit/Livewell Lighting
• 1250 GPH Auto/Manual Bilge Pump (1)
• Console Switch Panel with waterproof switches, circuit breakers & 12V Outlet
• Battery Selector Switch & Wiring for Dual Batteries
• Waterproof Electrical Connectors & Tin Plated Copper Wiring
• Heavy-Duty Marine Grade UV Resistant Vinyl Upholstery
• Powdercoated Aluminum Leaning Post w/ 72QT Cooler
• Folding Aluminum Seat on Front of Console w/Backrest
• Stainless Steel Folding/Removable Stern Seat w/Backrest
• 20 Gallon Transom Baitwell
• Insulated Bow Storage/Fishbox w/ Overboard Drain
• Stainless Steel Gunwale Mounted Rod Holders (4)
• Under Gunwale Rod Racks
• Stainless Steel Anchor Roller w/ Hawse Pipe & Anchor Hook
• Bow Anchor Locker with Overboard Drain

White Yamaha F150 Four Stroke w/ Stainless Steel Prop, Fuel/Water Separator, Group 24 Battery & Box (2), Digital Tach (w/ Engine Trim, Hours, Trip & Warning Lights), Digital Speedo (w/ Fuel Level, Trip, Time, Volts & Low Fuel/Volt Alarms)

Optional Features

Hullside Color Dark w/ White Bottom

• COLORS: Stars & Stripes Blue

Hullside Color Light w/ White Bottom

• COLORS: Pewter, Ice Blue, Sea Foam Green
• Console Cover – Black, Grey, Navy, Toast
• Sun Top w/ SS Bows & Hardware
• Instrument Box for T-Top
• 15′ Silver Radial Outriggers for T-Top
• 3-Sided Enclosure for T-Top
• Console/Helm Seat Cover

Single Yamaha F200XSA2 Digital Electronic Steering, White

• Garmin EchoMap Plus 94sv with GT54 Transducer
• Fusion Stero RA55 with JL Audio 6.5″ M3 Speakers (2)
• Additional, Speakers (2), JL Audio M3 6.5″
• Trolling Motor/Power Pole Pre-Rig Move Starboard Forward Cleat (2) Battery Trays
• Battery Charger Package w/ 115V Power Inlet (2 Bank)

Performance

Yamaha f200txr.

Yamaha F150

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SeaCraft 20 Master Angler

• By John Brownlee
• Updated: September 21, 2007

SeaCraft continues to add to its line of stylish center consoles, this time with a new 20-footer that traces its heritage back to a real classic. The original 20-foot SeaCraft was revered among serious fishermen who marveled at the ride of its aggressive, modified-vee hull, and many of them worked their boats hard, far from sight of land.

The newer version is built around the original hull design, and seeks to achieve the same status as its predecessor through a combination of classic good looks and serious fishing features. No one will accuse SeaCraft of being timid about pursuing the fishing-boat market, as this boat is clearly designed for, and by, fishermen, specifically casters. You can troll from this boat, of course, but the simple and clean layout makes it an ideal platform for those of us who like to cast to fish.

We tested the totally tricked-out “Lefty Kreh” version of the new 20 Master Angler, the one that comes with a “coffin box” forward of the console. Famed fly-caster Lefty Kreh was consulted when the boat was being designed, and the result is a remarkably clean bow area, with a recessed bow light and cleat, and stainless-steel chafing strips for the anchor line. Because there’s nothing on which to snag your line, this area is a perfect place to cast a fly rod-or any other kind of tackle, for that matter.

Handy Coffin Box

The coffin box is divided into two separate storage areas: a smaller one forward that will hold loose gear or can be plumbed as a second live well, and a larger compartment aft for fish. Both drain onto the deck and out through the scuppers aft. The box comes with cushions, so it also doubles as a very convenient seat and/or leaning area. Forward of the coffin box is a sub-deck storage box that drains into the bilge and will most likely be used for anchor and line storage. Under-gunwale rod racks forward hold three rods per side, and their location allows for easy access.

The coffin box is attached to the console, which features a centerline Edson aluminum steering wheel and upscale aircraft-style gauges. Sturdy push-pull switches are mounted in a good-looking burnished-aluminum panel, and are aligned in a row beneath the helm, where they will be at least nominally out of the weather. A storage box with a sliding door above the helm holds loose stuff, and the console has a simple angled surface for mounting electronics. The acrylic windshield is surrounded by an aluminum hand rail.

The simple and clean layout makes it an ideal platform for those of us who like to cast to fish.|

A hatch on the aft side of the console opens to reveal the boat’s battery and battery switch, the oil tank and the trim-tab pump. It’s a tight fit in here, but everything is serviceable. The cockpit in the Lefty Kreh Edition has standard coaming bolsters and comes with four deluxe Rupp rod holders in the covering boards. Our test boat featured the classic “piano stool” pedestal seat for the helmsman, which takes up very little space and provides maximum fishing room. An aluminum leaning post comes standard.

The 20 Master Angler features a conventional notched-transom design, which many fishermen still prefer. The centerline engine well is flanked by two low-profile hatches. The one to starboard affords access to the inner hull, all through-hulls, and the bilge pump, while the port hatch conceals the boat’s free-flooding live well.

Our test boat was powered by a single 150-hp Mercury Opti-Max outboard that jumped the 20 on plane immediately and soon had us traveling at a cruise speed of 30.5 knots at 4000 rpm. A wide-open 5400 rpm produced 40.5 knots. Unfortunately, our test day was flat calm, so we didn’t get a chance to test the SeaCraft’s rough-water capabilities.

The 20 Master Angler can be bought with or without the optional $2,000 Lefty Kreh package, which includes the combined console and coffin box, the Rupp rod-holder upgrade, the pop-up cleat and navigation light, and the cockpit coaming bolsters. You can also order the boat with an engine shroud/cutting board for the maximum “clean” effect. The 20 looks great with or without these extra goodies, but with them it is one radical little fishing machine.

It will certainly be a hit among those who demand the very best in their fishing boats. SeaCraft continues to push the envelope as to what a production-boat company can offer, including semi-custom touches like a diverse choice of hullside/bottom color combinations. And after focusing its attention on the shorter end of its line, SeaCraft is planning some new offerings in the larger models, as well. That means you can look forward to more of the same high-quality fit and finish in another great-looking package.

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20 Ft Boats for sale

1-15 of 3,438

2005 Custom Built 71ft x 24ft x 6ft

Houma, Louisiana

Make Custom Built

Model 71ft X 24ft X 6ft

Category Houseboats

Posted 3 Weeks Ago

This vessel is in excellent condition. Per the seller, everything onboard is in working order. The seller maintains a logbook to document the dates that he has run/exercised all the various equipment on board. This includes the main engines, the two generators, the spuds, as well as all the various other equipment. Stock #244332 71ft x 24ft x 6ft Custom Built House boat powered by twin, 8V71 Detroit Diesel main engines! ********************** CERTIFIED SINGLE OWNER ********************** This 2005 Custom Built 71ft x 24ft x 6ft Houseboat is one of a kind. The seller custom-built it from the 1/4" steel hull to the beautiful interior finish work that features natural cypress. It is powered by two Detroit Diesel 8V71 engines, a 2:1 gear, driving 2" Stainless Steel shafts equipped with 30" 4-blade bronze props. The electric plant consists of a 20 KW Delco generator driven by a Detriot Diesel 8V71 engine, a 23 KW generator driven by an Isuzu 4LE1 engine, as well as shore power. It features three levels with spiral staircases to traverse the levels. The lower level includes 4 private berths, a full head with a shower, and a large galley and dining table. Move up the spiral staircase to the mid-level. It features three bunks, two large sofa's, and a TV with DRV. Go through the glass sliding doors to the utility room to access the full-size stackable washer & dryer, a 500 lb/day icemaker, and a full bathroom with a shower. Walk through the sliding glass door to the outside deck. Moving up the second spiral staircase brings you to the pilothouse. It features a bunk, two stainless steel chart tables, as well as all the navigation equipment to safely pilot the boat. Controls include a Kobelt Full Follow-up tiller, a Kobelt Electronic Throttle Control (with station select, Station Lock, Throttle Override, and Synchronizer). Gages for the Port and Starboard engines, switches, and spud controls are all mounted on stainless steel panels. This houseboat is wired and has light fixtures for both 120 VAC and 12 VDC. This houseboat has a USCG Certified Type II Marine Sanitation Device (sewerage treatment plant). It also has an Ademco Electronic Security System. Reason for selling is no longer using.

2018 Ranger Boats 50th Anniversary Edition Z20L

Brandon, Florida

Make Ranger Boats

Model 50th Anniversary Edition Z20L

Category Bass Boats

Posted 1 Week Ago

Stock #274518 50th Anniversary Tournament Edition. Ready to fish Pro Tournament This 2018 Ranger 50th Anniversary Edition Z20L is fully Loaded and ready for tournament fishing ! Featuring Garmin 3,GPSMAP 7612xsv & Garmin GPSMAP 7610xsv, fully functional and powered on a separate new battery and custom marine wiring, networked both via Garmin and NEMA network . Also a Panoptix LiveScope System, Power Pole 10ft Signature Blades with dash switches floor switches and fob switches. Power Pole Charge fully integrated with the electronics attached to 5 new batteries 3 lithium batteries for the 36v Minnkota trolling motor and 2 blue top agm starter batteries! Powerd by an Evinrude G3 250 H.O. with 2 props 3 and 4 blade Raker on a Bobs Jack Plate, fully serviced and maintained by certified professional technician any reports available . It has both hot foot and hand control system. All pumps and lights and electric systems are in perfect working order the boxes are all lighted and fully waterproof as well as lockable with both the lid latches as well as loc-bar with a alarm system. Adjustable seating and tilt steering integrated tilt and trim on the steering column . Ranger Trailer with road guard finish new 20" tires on custom factory wheels, 4 wheel disc brakes fully serviced with all functional components as well as lights and surge brakes . This boat is equipped with anything that is needed for any level of fishing you may have interest in undertaking, this platform is and was the best option Ranger Boats ever offered, it's faster top end and faster out of the hole than any before or since ! Reason for selling is has another boat.

2010 Bennington 20ft

Jackson, Michigan

Make Bennington

Category Pontoon Boats

Posted Over 1 Month

2010 Bennington 20ft 2010 Bennington 20ft 20 SL 50 Yamaha efi 4 stroke engine. Trailer included, one owner, rear entry, am/fm stereo, rear entry, playpen cover. This is a very nice pontoon that has been serviced from the start at Thayer Marine. Hurry this will not last long. 2010 Bennington 20 SL 50 Yamaha efi 4 stroke engine. Trailer included, one owner, rear entry, am/fm stereo, rear entry, playpen cover. This is a very nice pontoon that has been serviced from the start at Thayer Marine. Hurry this will not last long.

1972 Sanger 20ft

Elkhart, Indiana

Make Sanger

Category High Performance Boats

1972 Sanger 20ft 1972 Sanger 20ft 20 FT. SANGER SKI BOAT, B.B. CHEVY 454 C.I. / 400 H.P. BORG WARNER TRANSMISSION, CASSALE V-DRIVE, FACTORY HARDWARE AND MOUNTING, FOOT THROTTLE , SIDE CONTROL SHIFT, HAND CONTROL CAVITATION PLATES, NEWER GUAGES, NICE SEATS, ALL GLASS, NO WOOD OR ROT, BRONZ 3-BLADE PROP, O.E.M. BLACK BOTTOM GEL, TOP SIDE (CREAM COLOR ) WAS PAINTED - NEEDS RE-DONE, VERY CLEAN WELL MAINTAINED RUNNING ENGINE - FAST ! FACTORY MOUNT SKI PYLON, VERY NICE TANDEM AXle TRAILER W/ SURGE BRAKES INCLUDED. THIS BOAT IS RARE AND HARD TO FIND ! MUST SEE !BOAT HAS CLEAN MICHIGAN TITLE, NO TITLE OR REG. ON TRAILER, MUST BE WEIGHED.ASKING $ 8750.00 O.B.O.

1995 Baia 20ft

Mecosta, Michigan

Category Aft Cabin

1995 Baia 20ft 454 Mercruiser motor, W/ Eagle Trailer

1996 BAJA OUTLAW 24FT ANNVERSARY EDITION /1996 Eagle Trailer

New York, New York

Make BAJA OUTLAW 24FT

GET READY FOR SPRING ) Asking 15,500 For sale is a 1996 Baja outlaw 25th anniversary Edition. 454 boat has many new extras asking . The Boat is a GREAT boat a lot fun and very fast 62mph WOT which is plenty for most people. This boat was opened up TWICE since I owned it very well maintained and cared for its only in the salt water at most 2 weekends a month outdrive never painted. I had had bottom Barrier coated by interlux. all pictures and receipts to prove Boat is flushed out after every use. Its stored on a rack boat only stays in water on weekends. PLEASE CONTACT ME BEFORE BIDDING SERIOUS INQUIRES ONLY. NO LOW BALLERS LOL 917-348-7903 I RESERVE THE RIGHT TO END THIS AUCTION AT ANYTIME . THANKS FOR LOOKING New rebuilt top end . New heads many more 1.New dual batteries with switch 2.New radio with (2) amps 1500 watt 3.New raw water pump 4.New (mercruser) Manifolds and risers 5.Led lighting though cockpit 6.New custom (cockpit cover) 7.Led cup holders 8.New custom reupholstered engine cover to match boat. 9.1996 eagle trailer 10.Drive Shower 11.New trim tab pistons 12.Custom 4 Stainless blade prop, 1 (3) blade stainless prop 13.Lovrosi steering wheel (purple) 14.Custom travel cover 15.Pop --up cleats 16.Interior all well maintained in good shape 17.Brand new anchor with 150 foot rope 18.Garmin depth finder 19.New swim platform padding 20 whole new Thunderbolt ignition system, coil, cap, wires, router, ignition sensor, ICM module.

1987 20ft. Invader

Elkton, Maryland

Make Invader

Have nice boat for sale and trailer comes with new fish finder with gps, anchor, flair kit, 4 life jackets, port a pot. Boat runs great about 35 mph has ss prop new water pump and tune up. Trailer has 4 new tires and all lights work. Needs break line for breaks to work has new rotors. Boat is ready for water. Asking 4250 call or text 410-920-9796

20ft Arizona Room

California City, California

Comes with all hardware, roll down sun shades and MH skirt ,made in Yuma good material ph 1-780-835-0164 Sun Vista 1107

1996 Wellcraft 20Ft

Hammond, Louisiana

Make Wellcraft

Category Center Consoles

Length 20.0

1996 Wellcraft Small Cabin Motor brand new repower Everything new around engine Complete package 4.3 V6 marine Engine Runs smooth Great Ski Boat

1978 Seacraft 20FT

Hallandale, Florida

1978 20ft sea craft - center console Contact: 786-972-8924 call or text subject : seacraft ***-VIDEOS OF BOAT: Video 1 : https://youtu.be/SzCYJ6eGY9A Video 2 : https://youtu.be/orbJebnn0Rg ------Price: $5,500 - comes with vhf - solid floors - solid boat all around. - new woodgrain dashboard , gauges, switches , shifter , trim tab switch, antenna . - trailer included - runs like a champ - has a 3.0 Mercury I/O - ran most of its life in fresh water - hard to find a seacraft this style. - clean wiring - Fully service - New Speakers & Radio - fortress anchor - Title in hand - Comes With two bimini tops one for the console and another small one for the front of the boat.

20ft 1995 Crestliner

Fort Myers, Florida

See pictures or call Marina Mikes for more details

20 ft Shamrock 1980

Bokeelia, Florida

20 ft Shamrock 1980 Includes good dual axle trailer , 251 ford engine with approx. 190 hrs New engine was installed in 2006 Well maintained. Whole package in good working order Asking $5,000 Call Chester 239 283 9416 (Bokeelia, Florida)

20 Ft. Marathon

Grantsville, West Virginia

Make Marathon

Category Cruiser Motorcycles

20 ft. marathon cruiser,170 Mercruiser engine newly rebuilt, will need some cosmetic repairs

Wellcraft 20ft Boat

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

20ft boat (WELLCRAFT) -v6 Johnson motor Boat is used but runs perfect.

20ft Pontoon Boat

Hernando, Florida

I have a 20ft pontoon boat it has the gavanized trailer for s3ating it has four catin chairs and two bench seats up front with a built in live well and cooler. It has a 40 horse 2 stroke yamaha motor. It also has a Bimini top to block out this fl sun. If iinterested please call or text thanks! 3524703059

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Best Power Boats of 2024: Review and Buying Guide

BENETEAU GRAN TURISMO 40

FOUR WINNS VISTA 255

For experienced and beginner boaters, nothing is more irresistible than the experience of cruising the open water aboard a powerful watercraft. The cool breeze and splash of water on the face, the foamy waves that trail the boat as it cuts through the water, and the sheer ecstasy that comes from steering a boat are all too strong to resist.

However, you need a good quality powerboat to experience all of these and more. For this reason, we have written this guide to show you five of the very best powerboats available on the market. Beyond that, you will find everything you need to know about choosing a good-quality boat and the category that best suits you. But before we get into all of that, let’s take a look at what powerboats are, albeit briefly.

What is a Power Boat?

Powerboat is a broad term that describes different categories of boats with engines. It can be a small boat for fishing or a larger one that can accommodate an entire family for long-distance cruises. The term even covers high-performance boats with every amenity a modern watercraft can have. Powerboats come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, and they are best suited to different uses.

That’s about all the lessons on powerboats you’ll find in this article.

Considering the numerous options, it can be an uphill task to choose just one, especially if it is your first boat. Thankfully, you are reading this guide, which means that you should be able to select the perfect watercraft that matches your needs in a few minutes from now.

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the best power boats and what to look for when buying one.

The XO 250 is fabricated from a 5083 marine-grade aluminum hull, making it lightweight and extremely durable. There is a lot of attention to detail in this boat, with neat internal lines that allow for plenty of built-in features.

It comes with a shock-absorbing bucket seat, and all the instruments and switches are conveniently located. The seating position is sited perfectly and gives clear visibility over the bow without the need to stand while helming fast.

The XO 250 features a 12V drawer fridge, an optional radar arch, a big plotter and sounder, and the bow has four beautifully molded lockers. The battery switch and stainless fuel tank are easy to access.

The XO 250 is the perfect powerboat for you if you want a watercraft that combines seakeeping, practicality, and style.

• LOA: 24 ft 6 in
• Beam: 7 ft 4 in
• Displacement: 551 lbs (no engine)
• Power options: 150 HP to 320 HP
• Fuel capacity: 50 gallons
• RCD category: C for 8

Check here for current listings of XO 250 .

 Yachtworld  →

• Safe and practical
• Rapid performance
• Solid build
• Low planing speed and flat transition to plane
• Excellent handling and seakeeping
• The rear bench seat has no option for replacement

AXOPAR 28 TT

If you want a powerboat that is distinctively solid like German cars, perhaps the Axopar 28 TT will be your best option. The GPR-built boat has an aggressive and radical styling.

The typical Scandinavian craft has a deck and cockpit areas that are designed extensively in G2 Flexiteek. Rock-solid guard rails top the high bulwarks moving forward. Even in out-of-sight places like the anchor locker is superbly finished without the slightest compromise that is often the norm in such hidden areas.

Under the double sun pad of the Axopar 28 TT is a carefully hidden double berth that can be accessed through the aft bench seat. So if you need to spend the night somewhere tranquil, you will find enough room to accommodate even the largest couples.

The forward seating area can be converted into a second sunbathing spot to complement the aft sun pad. The boat also has a large bathing platform that can comfortably accommodate a semi-deflated inflatable craft.

• LOA: 28 ft 2 in
• Beam: 9 ft 3 in
• Transom deadrise angle: 22 degrees
• Displacement: 3,725 lbs (no engine)
• Power options: 150 Hp to 350 HP
• Fuel capacity: 57 gallons

Check here for Axopar 28 TT listings .

 Boats  →

• Great protection from harsh weather
• Speedy performance
• Movement on deck is easy
• Many items on the rather long list of extras ought to have been included as standard items
• Options list contains only one engine manufacturer

From the French yard comes the Beneteau Gran Turismo 40 – a 40-footer that seeks to do things slightly different from the norm.

This powerboat comes with a regimented standard layout, including a chaise longue forward to port, a wet bar opposite a cockpit that has a C-shaped dinette right behind it, and a double helm to starboard located at both sides of the central companionway.

There is a central double berth in the forward cabin below, a saloon located in the middle with galley and head on the one hand and dinette on the other, and a center cabin that comes with two berths.

The boat is extremely lightweight without feeling that way. The hull is designed to take punishment without flinching one bit. There is plenty of room and seats in the cockpit.

• Length: 41 ft 2 in
• Beam: 12 ft 8 in
• Fuel capacity: 143 gallons
• Draught: 3 ft 7 in
• Displacement: 16,975 lbs

Check here for current prices and listings .

• Attractive and stylish design
• Performance with twin 300 HP engines is very high
• Unique and effective layout
• Great value
• Good seakeeping
• Only one windscreen wiper
• The finish is below premium level
• The storage in mid-cabin is slightly compromised

The Four Winns Vista 255 is a capable weekender for a couple or small family. Although it a fairly fast and efficient boat, it is not designed to be a sports boat, making it an excellent choice for easy cruising for the weekend.

It is worth noting that the cockpit is well elevated, especially considering its size. This means you will have excellent visibility, whether standing or seating. There is a convertible sunbed/back seat set up in the cockpit. This set up features a tilting backrest that can turn the spot into a seat facing aft so that you can watch skiers, swimmers, and anything that catches your interest.

The galley is equipped with a microwave and a small fridge, with enough room to accommodate a bigger fridge. Opposite the galley is the main cabin with a 6 ft 3-inches headroom. There is a full head complete with a shower, toilet, and sink. The convertible double bed/dinette is positioned diagonally. The mid-cabin has a queen-sized bed.

This stylish craft is a beamy boat, meaning it will retain its stability even when the crew moves about. The steering is considerably quick and very responsive.

• LOA: 25 ft 1 in
• Beam: 8 ft 3 in
• Draught: 2 ft 9 in
• Transom deadrise angle: 17 degrees
• Displacement: 6,194 lbs (with engine)
• Power options: 240 Hp to 300 HP
• Fuel capacity: 58 gallons

See here for Four Winns Vista 255 listings .

• A fast and efficient boat
• Quick and easy steering
• Excellent cockpit
• Quick and easy access engine
• Plenty of hull colors to choose from
• Impractical galley design
• Some couples may find the forward double berth too small
• Might not be tough enough to handle rough weather for long periods
• Too many extras, many of which should ideally be standard items

CRANCHI Z35

The Cranchi Z35 is a rare breed that falls in the mid-range sports-cruisers category. It is designed to have an open, sun-soaked cockpit with two spacious cockpits and twin diesel.

If you want a powerboat that will shine on a sunny day, this boat with a sociable cockpit will fit the bill. It has quite an impressive accommodation below decks. The well-proportioned cabins are built to have abundant storage and sleeping spaces to host adults for a few days or more.

The saloon has smart detailing and excellent headroom, too. The galley comes with plenty of storage, including cupboards and lockers that are lined in smooth GRP. The railings on the deck feature triple fender baskets on both sides of the foredeck. The guest cabin berth is large and has an infill cushion that transforms from a twin into a double berth.

• Length: 37 ft 11 in
• Beam: 11 ft 6 in
• Draught: 2 ft 11 in
• Fuel capacity: 131 gallons
• Water capacity: 42 gallons
• Engines: Twin Volvo Penta D4 260 HP
• Top speed: 34 knots

Check here for listings .

• Adequate space below decks
• Brilliant cockpit
• Attractive styling
• Punchy performance
• Good detailing and finish
• Helm seat might be uncomfortable
• Glare off the dash
• Tight engine room access

What to Look for In a Power Boat – Buying Guide

You have three choices when it comes to buying a powerboat (or any boat for that matter). These include a custom-made boat, a brand new boat, and a used one (in good condition). Whatever your choice, there are a few fundamental considerations that you shouldn’t compromise on, as they will determine whether or not you will enjoy your investment.

The following are the important things to consider.

• Engine accessibility : How easy is it to access the engine? Choose a boat with a readily accessible engine area to make it easy to reach the battery and check fluid levels.
• Visibility: According to Rule 15 of the United States Coast Guard Navigation Rules, all powered vessels must keep out of the way of boats approaching from the starboard. The problem is that visibility isn’t always good from the helm station of some boats. And if you can’t see your forward starboard quadrant, you might collide with an oncoming boat or run into some problems. So make sure you choose a powerboat that provides adequate visibility from the helm. As much as possible, avoid boats with obstructions caused by permanent fixtures, windshield mullions, hardtop supports, bulkheads, and overhead brows.
• Electronic needs : This is pretty straightforward. You want to choose a boat that has enough space for your entire electronics packages such as radar/chart plotter overlay, marine radio , radio tester, and a Wi-Fi and cellular range booster.
• Customization : Owning a boat means having the ability to customize it or include upgrades. For this reason, it is best to choose one that offers flexible customization options. For example, can you add or detach furniture? Can you make an upgrade to the galley?

It is also helpful if you read reviews from boaters who already purchased the type of powerboat you intend to buy. There are a good number of online boating forums where you can find useful first-hand information from boat owners. Are they pleased with the specific model you want? What are their concerns and complaints?

Here’s one more thing to consider. If you are buying a new boat or dealing with a manufacturer, find out if they have a comprehensive after-sales service. You want to choose a manufacturer that will continue to maintain a one-on-one relationship and an open communication channel with clients.

If you are in the market for a powerboat for cruising with your family, consider one with comfortable cabin space. For boating in the tropics or hot regions, you will need a boat with air conditioning systems.  Consider ample seating, too, because cruising with family and friends is a lot more fun and enjoyable when everyone has a comfortable place to sit and relax on the deck.

If what you want is a powerboat for offshore fishing, consider a boat with angler-friendly storage. A spacious deck where you can cast unhindered is equally important, too. Pay attention to the hull design, as a deep V-shaped hull cuts better through rough waters. Lastly, consider getting a fuel-efficient powerboat for offshore fishing, as this will reduce expenses on fuel.

Choosing the Right Power Boat

Having a list of the best power boats and knowing what makes a good one will not be of much help if you can’t make up your mind on which type to get. As you probably already know, these boats come in a wide variety with a vast range of hull forms, construction materials, and plenty of options in terms of propulsion and power.

To help you decide on which powerboat is right for you, we’ve outlined some of the more common types and their best use. This is not a comprehensive list, though, and that’s because powerboats encompass so many boat types from the small 12-footer tender to the ocean-crossing crawler and every other thing in between. So, we’ve left out some categories such as hovercrafts, personal watercraft, and catamarans.

Essentially, we’ve cut down the list to include rapid monohulls that are a great starting point for any beginner boater looking for the best power boats that suit their needs.

1. Bowriders

A bowrider is a great choice if you want a powerboat with a compact platform and adequate lounging space upfront. The open bows make them particularly suitable for frolicking on sunny days.

Although bowriders have come to be known with a traditional shape that features tapered forward lines, other options that present a whole lot of newer and spacious formats are now available. The space ahead of the helm in the traditional bowrider is quite tight. To allow for more internal seating room, newer versions have beams that are further forward, but the trade-off is a little bit of the sporting ability and aesthetic appeal of the traditional shape.

A classic traditional bowrider is the Sea Ray 190 SPX , while newer formats include Bayliner Element XR7 and Interboat Neo 7.

Here are a few things to look for in a bowrider that can perform excellently well in water sports:

• Extra cockpit seating
• Powerful inboard engines
• Automated throttle
• Wakeboard towers
• Wake-tweaking devices (e.g., fins, and ballast tanks)

2. Cabin Style Power Cruisers

If accommodation is topmost in the things you want in a powerboat, the cabin style power cruisers might be your best bet.

These powerboats fall into two broad categories:

• The sporty craft – small design with compact cabins in the bow.
• The people carrier – broader and more spacious designs with an emphasis on comfy accommodation rather than performance.

Whichever option that appeals to you, you need to consider convertible furniture to create more sleeping room. A galley at the top means more accommodation below deck. On the flip side, a cabin style powerboat with the galley below the decks creates more space at the sun deck for seating. So, make sure to choose an option that suits your accommodation needs.

Here’s a quick tip: if you are thinking of buying a cabin style powerboat as your first boat, you don’t have to break the bank to get a massive boat, even if you can. It is best to start with a smaller and cheaper option that is more efficient and manageable.

You would have learned how to operate a boat better and with more confidence in a short while. And using it for a season, you would be able to say for sure what shape and size work best for you.

Some of the best power boats fall in the category of hard-hulled planing crafts with built-in inflatable collars. These are particularly suited for water sports, fishing, lounging, diving, and load carrying.

In the end, your intended usage, price, and size will determine what type of RIBS you buy, but it is important to note some of the options. RIBS constructed from Hypalon are last longer but are more expensive than PVC-constructed tubes. Your driving style will also come into play when you consider seating features, which include traditional jockey seats, leaning posts, benches, and impact-mitigation seats.

The power option depends a lot on the type of boater you consider yourself to be. So, before you choose a fit-out and hull shape , think about how you would typically use a powerboat.

4. Center Console Powerboats

When it comes to versatility, center console powerboats take the lead. You can use them for angling or even for taking your family on long smooth rides.

Select one with less built-in furniture and an emptier deck if these type of boats appeal to you. This way, you can add the furniture that matches your needs the most. Many center console powerboats have less weight due to the inclusion of only basic facilities, which means they cost a lot less than other options. Also, they generally tend to have greater running efficiency and more agile handling because they weigh less.

5. Sport Yacht

Sport yachts are the best power boats for traveling long distances. They are faster and sleeker than traditional yachts but come with spacious cabins for overnight and extended stays. If you intend to entertain guests, this category of powerboats would be your best option. They combine luxury and performance.

For those who want to be the party, consider getting one of these powerboats that come with a full galley or one with the option for convenient upgrades to modern kitchen facilities such as a good-quality boat grill .

6. Walkaround Fisher

Lastly, there’s the Walkaround Fisher category for those who prefer a “hybrid” powerboat of some sort. If you want a powerboat that does a bit of everything, consider getting a Walkaround Fisher. A good choice would be the compact Trophy 2152 Walkaround with a small cabin for fishing and water sports.

Choosing a powerboat can be quite daunting considering all the options available, but you don’t have to settle for less than what you want. You can be sure that there’s a boat out there that matches your need no matter what it is. Do not compromise on the features that work well for you. Study the boats on this list, and you’re sure to find one that suits you.

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-Riding Center Console Boats for Rough Water

• By Heather Steinberger
• Updated: April 7, 2020

We’ve all been there. A headwind pipes up, and choppy, rough seas dance between you and your destination. You throttle up; you throttle back. You try to help your boat find its comfort zone, and you do your best to quarter the waves.

Inevitably, though, there are those stomach-dropping lurches and the slamming that clenches your muscles and rattles your dental work. Despite your best efforts, you can’t ignore the bangs down below, the ones that make the hull shudder. The ones that make you fervently hope that everyone involved with building this boat did a good job.

That’s a rough ride, even for a rough water boat. And it has happened to all of us, so let’s be honest. Not every boat can provide a soft, smooth ride in snotty conditions, no matter what the glossy brochures say.

We asked three prominent boat designers, and their answers provided much food for thought — regarding how to choose a vessel that’s going to provide a smooth ride, best boat for rough seas, the compromises and trade-offs inherent in your choice, and whether a smooth ride is even what you should be looking for in the first place.

Comparing Displacement and Planing Boat Hulls

Dave Gerr founded New York City-based Gerr Marine Inc. in 1983. He’s designed a broad range of recreational boats and commercial vessels, both monohull and multihull. When it comes to designing a soft-riding hull, he immediately pointed out that there are different sets of criteria for displacement hulls and planing hulls.

Displacement hulls, he noted, don’t pound the way a planing hull will, so they automatically provide a softer ride. To maximize this, designers need to ensure three things: a good roll time, good heave characteristics and deadrise forward.

“For the roll time, we have a formula,” Gerr said. “Every boat has a natural roll period, which is 1 to 1.1 seconds times the boat’s beam in meters. If it’s slower than that, you’ll get that drunken motion. If it’s faster, it’s going to feel snappy and uncomfortable.”

For example, a boat with a 6.7-foot beam ideally should have an approximately two-second roll time. And, Gerr added, a reasonable deadrise forward will make the vessel even more comfortable.

The formula for heave, however, is more complicated. It involves the weight of the boat and the water plane area. The lighter the boat is, and the greater its water plane area, the greater the heave motion will be.

“A wide boat with a large water plane will bounce up and down violently,” Gerr said, “but if you have a small water plane compared to the boat’s weight, that heave will be slow. If it heaves too slowly, you’ve got a wet boat.

“You want to have your roll time and heave in the target region, and then add that deadrise forward,” he continued, “so you won’t have pounding in chop.”

For a planing hull this is hard to achieve. By nature, these hulls are snappy and heave more while trolling or drifting; planing cancels that out, but you can still pound.

“What you really want is more deadrise,” Gerr said. “Just remember: The greater the deadrise, the slower the boat [for the same weight and engine]. That deep-V hull is going to need more power.”

A designer, he said, has to juggle power and what is good deadrise on a boat for optimum comfort.

“You put a deep, high deadrise at the forefoot to get the boat to lift its bow out of the water, or you’ll have steering problems,” he said. “You design it so it planes higher, and then you control it with trim tabs so you won’t trip over that forefoot.”

Deadrise is a difficult thing to visually assess at a boat show or in a dealer’s showroom, so how can a boater ascertain if a soft ride was a design priority? Gerr said the length-to-beam ratio is a dead giveaway.

“A long, slender hull is going to have a softer ride, as long as the designer got the roll time right,” he stated. “A wide, shallow hull isn’t going to perform as well. And if you’ve got a high superstructure, you’re going to have increased roll and handling problems.”

Of course, less displacement means it’s a smaller boat inside. You’re going to have to go longer to get the same live-aboard space as that shorter, wider, taller boat next door, but the good news is that your boat is going to be faster and more fuel-efficient than the fat, high version of the same length.

If you are talking deadrise, Gerr said he likes to see a minimum of 17 degrees for offshore boats, although he observed that’s still a bit shallow. Deep-V hulls are considered to be 21 degrees or more. Consider this if you’re looking for the best deadrise for rough water.

“I’d say look for a deadrise of more than 20 degrees,” he advised, “and a length-to-beam ratio on the waterline that is greater than 3.5 to 1. Those two characteristics give you a pretty good idea that the design is intended for a soft ride.”

How Does a Boat Hull Handle in Following Seas?

Michael Peters founded Sarasota, Florida-based Michael Peters Yacht Design (MPYD) in 1981. Originally specializing in high-speed boats and offshore racing, MPYD now brings its fusion of performance and aesthetic standards to a wide variety of boat designs. When asked about the search for the perfect soft-riding boat, Peters laughed.

“Think of these ideals: soft-riding, dry and fast,” he said. “Now, pick two.”

The softer-riding a boat is, the wetter it is, because it doesn’t confront the wave. Rather, it splits it. If you want to knock the water down and push it away, then you’ll feel the impact. Boaters clearly need to consider these trade-offs when seeking a soft-riding vessel, but Peters has a more important cautionary tale to share. It’s natural to think of head seas and a soft-riding hull together in the same scenario — but what happens when the boat turns around?

“That’s a different story,” Peters said. “Following seas can pick up the stern, and the sharp angle and deadrise can cause the boat to bow-steer and broach. That’s a much more dangerous situation. It’s uncomfortable to hit the seas on the nose, but it won’t kill you. Boats go out of control in following seas, not head seas.”

Simply put, a hull that is too pointy forward and too flat aft will have an increased risk of broaching. Boaters should look for a hull with deadrise spread evenly — no extremes, such as a professional offshore racing boat’s sharp deadrise throughout the hull. The best boat hull for rough seas must be able to handle following seas.

“If you’re going to have fine forward sections, you’ll balance the hull by putting a lot of deadrise aft,” Peters explained. “You’re looking for recovery, a bow that doesn’t plunge and that can regain its buoyancy in a following sea.

“In our forward sections, we always run a convex section that’s puffed out,” he continued. “Some curvature helps dissipate wave energy and impact. Concave sections look like they’ll provide a softer ride, but they actually focus the energy.”

Peters’ advice to boaters is twofold. First, avoid those extremes. They’re not necessary for most recreational boaters. And second, make sure you have a good grasp of where and how you’re going to use the boat. An offshore cruising boat might not be the best choice for a river or inland lake.

“Lakes can be much harder for running a boat than the ocean, where you have long swells rather than steep, breaking seas,” Peters said. “Just make sure you’ve planned for the worst conditions you’ll run in, not the best, and never, ever sign a contract without running the boat in the intended conditions.”

Some boats, he said, are not designed to be the best boat . Sometimes the goal is to provide the best accommodations for the hull’s length and beam, which can mean creating a vessel that has a lot of windage, high freeboard, a high center of gravity and a very wide beam for its length.

“We don’t get to design the best boat in all cases,” Peters said. “No perfect boat? No kidding. But every boat appeals to somebody. One guy might love this particular boat, and he wants that 6-foot-4-inch headroom, while another guy is going to hate the compromises.”

“You always have to be aware that the more you emphasize space, the less boat it’s going to be,” he warned. “And it’s counterintuitive, but what looks good might not be good at all.”

Peters also advised inquiring about a preferred design’s origins. Was it designed in-house at the boatbuilding facility? Was it designed by a naval architect? What are his or her credentials?

“Some people might not care, but it will help you better understand the design,” he said. “With a car, we accept that all the engineering is done correctly, and we can choose our favorite based on appeal alone. With a boat, you should think about engineering and stability calculations, not just styling.”

Finally, Peters noted that good hull designs stand the test of time. With most major advancements taking place in hybrids, like stepped hulls and multihulls, the average boat owner is going to be looking at hull designs that haven’t changed much in 20 or 30 years. And that’s OK.

“Most people just want a good family boat,” he said. “I’d say stay in the middle. The hull should look familiar. That hull from 30 years ago is still a good hull.”

A Boat’s Soft Ride is Subjective

Peter Granata, owner of Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina-based Granata Design , has been designing boats since the early 1970s. With a number of award-winning designs and patented ideas under his belt, he’s firm in his conviction that the soft-ride discussion really shouldn’t be about the boat. It’s about the people involved.

“First of all, the hull ride is felt rather than measured,” he said. “And, it’s based very much on your own individual perception of what the boat looks like and what you expect it to deliver, plus your experience up to that point. It’s very subjective.”

Soft can be a relative term. A boater who is downsizing from a 60-foot yacht to a 30-foot pocket cruiser might find the smaller boat has the worst ride he’s experienced to date, whereas a boater jumping up from a 16-footer will say that 30-footer provides the best ride he’s ever had.

The most important questions a boater can ask, Granata said, are: How well does this design meet its intended purpose, and what can it do for me?

He provided a wakeboard boat as an example. The expectation is for thrills, not the softness of the ride.

“Soft ride is certainly a measurement when it comes to boat design, but it’s not the only one,” he said. “A designer should manage the ride aspect to meet the customer’s expectation. Does the boat do what it’s intended to do?”

The idea is that ride is less important than function, based on customer priorities. If you’re headed offshore and a dry ride is your No. 1 priority, you’ll want to make sure the hull has enough flare to ensure that the water follows the hull and travels outboard rather than over the deck. If you’re an angler, you might look for hull cutaways in the right spots to support the design’s self-bailing characteristics. Bass anglers seek extra buoyancy forward to support their weight.

With “dockominiums,” deep deadrise is unnecessary because owners place a higher priority on stability at rest, accommodations and space for entertaining. And with water-sports boats, the wake is all-important. Without that, the hull is worthless.

“We get so wrapped up in the specifics of hull generation that we forget someone has to buy it and spend time in it,” Granata said. “A designer has to know how the boat will be used, and you do as well. The boat is for you, not for the guy who made it.”

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