Boat Brands Guide 2024

420 Outrage 2016 42' BOSTON WHALER Boat, boat brands guide

When the time comes to shop for your new boat, you’ll inevitably come across a number of popular boat brands. Whether you’re looking for fishing boat brands, center console, or even luxury speed boat brands, we’ll explore some of the best brands on the market today to help you make an informed decision.

Featured Image: 420 Outrage 2016 42′ BOSTON WHALER Boat

Table of contents

Choosing the Right Boat Brand for Your Needs

Selecting the perfect boat starts with understanding which brands align with your specific boating goals. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the options:

  • Family Cruising: Brands like Sea Ray and Chaparral are renowned for their spacious layouts and family-friendly features, making them ideal for day trips and weekend getaways.
  • Fishing: Look to brands like Boston Whaler and Grady-White, known for their durability and fishing-centric designs, perfect for serious anglers.
  • Luxury Experiences: For those seeking opulence, brands like Sunseeker and Princess Yachts offer unparalleled luxury and performance.

Understanding the strengths of each brand ensures you choose a boat that perfectly matches your lifestyle and boating ambitions.

Choosing the right boat brand is easier when you can compare them side-by-side. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the differences:

Sea Ray vs. Bayliner: Sea Ray focuses on luxury with high-end materials and finishes, offering a premium boating experience ideal for those who prioritize comfort. Bayliner, on the other hand, is known for its affordability and practicality, making it a great option for budget-conscious buyers or first-time boat owners.

Boston Whaler vs. Grady-White: Boston Whaler and Grady-White are top picks for fishing enthusiasts. Boston Whaler is famous for its unsinkable hull design, providing unmatched safety and reliability. Grady-White, however, stands out for its superior stability and performance in rough waters, making it a favorite for challenging fishing conditions.

By comparing these brands, you can better understand which one aligns with your specific boating needs, whether it’s for luxury, family fun, or serious fishing.

What are the Top 10 Boat Brands?

In the 78ft and under category of boats, you’ll discover a wide variety of boat brands producing well-built and seaworthy boats. 

  1. Azimut Yachts 
  2. Boston Whaler 
  3. Chris-Craft 
  4. Cigarette 
  5. Ferretti 
  6. Grady-White 
  7. Hatteras 
  8. Princess 
  9. Sea Ray 
  10. Viking

What are the most reliable brands?

The top boat brands listed above include those that are the most reliable and well made. As a result, some of the most reliable boat brands include Azimut Yachts, Boston Whaler, Ferretti, Princess, Sunseeker and Viking, among others

What are the best boats with range?

A boat’s range is often one of the most important factors to consider when buying a vessel. When looking at the best boats with range, several yacht builders stand out, including Arksen, Bering Yachts and Damen. Long-range cruising yachts and expedition yachts are usually built to travel vast distances without needing to stop for fuel. A boat’s range varies on the weight and length of the vessel, but some specially-built boats have a range of over 18,000 nautical miles, including the Damen SeaXplorer.

What are the best luxury boat brands?

There is a wide variety of luxury brands available on the market, and as demand for luxury yacht sales grows, so do the options for buyers. While some of the below may specialize in larger superyachts, they often do offer smaller entry level boats for those in the market: 

As there are so many boat types on the market, one person’s top brand will not be anothers. However, a few names certainly stand out for their popularity around the world. Beneteau and Sunseeker are very popular in North America, across the Atlantic Ocean and into Europe.

In the US, Boston Whaler and Sea Ray maintain their popularity in both style and price point. 

Given the variety of waterways in Florida, there are a few different boats that sell very well here. Sportfish boats are popular for deep sea ocean fishing; center console boats for days on the Intercoastal or rivers, and pontoon boats for fun days out with friends and family.  

For more information on boating and cruising in Florida, please read our guide here. 

New Boat Brands 

What are the top 10 new boat brands?

If you’re in the market for a brand-new boat, there are plenty of reputable boat builders you can start your search with. 

  1. Arksen 
  2. Azimut Yachts 
  3. Bering Yachts 
  4. Bilgin Yachts 
  5. Horizon Yachts 
  6. Lagoon 
  7. Maori 
  8. Monte Carlo 
  9. Sanlorenzo 
  10. Sunseeker 

For a complete list of new boats for sale, search here on YATCO.  

How much is a brand-new boat?

The exact cost of a brand-new boat will depend on a few factors. You should have no problem finding the right brand-new boat to fit the budget you have in mind. Some important things to consider are: 

  • Size – The largest the boat, the bigger the price tag. 
  • Builder – Certain builders will carry a higher prestige, and therefore require a larger budget. 
  • Model – Entry level models will cost less than those that have been highly customized (much like cars). 
  • Extras – Will your boat come with unique features or a selection of water toys and accessories? 

As an example, a brand new 40ft boat could cost $300,000 with the price increasing as the boat grows in size. 

Used Boat Brands 

What are the top 10 used brands?

Starting the search for your next boat on the brokerage (used) market is a great place to start. Here you’ll find some excellent boats, at a fraction of the cost of a brand-new boat.  

  1. Azimut Yachts 
  2. Bayliner 
  3. Beneteau 
  4. Boston Whaler 
  5. Fountaine Pajot 
  6. Hatteras 
  7. Intrepid 
  8. Jeanneau 
  9. Lagoon 
  10. Sea Ray 

How much is a used boat?

Depending on the size and condition of the used boat you’re looking to purchase, there will be a wide variety of boats for each budget.  

For a full list of used boats for sale near you, within your price range, start your search with YATCO. 

Boat Brands By Boat Types

Best Motorboat Brands

The best brands will depend on your own personal preference. However, a few certain brands we have discussed already today tend to be very popular on both the new and used market – Azimut Yachts, Boston Whaler, and Sea Ray

Search used motor boats for sale here. 

Best Deck Boat Brands

Deck saloon sailboats feature a 365-degree visibility and an abundance of natural light thanks to the positioning of the saloon up higher than the deck. Some excellent deck boat brands include Claasen Jachtbouw, Hunter and Jeanneau.  

To search all deck saloon sailboats for sale on YATCO, click here.  

Best Center Console Boat Brands

Center console boats are popular for the sport fishing community. With walk around deck spaces, deep V-hulls and powerful performance, it’s no wonder it’s the boat of choice for those looking to pull in their next big catch. Popular center console brands include Boston Whaler, Cigarette, Intrepid, Nor-Tech, and SeaVee. 

Search all new and used center console boats on YATCO now.  

Best Bass Boat Brands

Bass boats make excellent fishing boats and are often seen on freshwater lakes and rivers. Lund and Crestliner are both excellent bass boat brands to review. 

For a listing of the best bass boats for sale on YATCO, click here.

Best Bay Boat Brands

Bay boats are a versatile watercraft designed primarily for fishing in shallow, coastal waters such as bays, flats, and estuaries. Bay boats are a great choice for fishing enthusiasts and some popular brands include Pathfinder, Sportsman and Yellowfin.

Search all new and used bay boats on YATCO now.

Best Fishing Boat Brands

Fishing boats are unique in their style and design – all to help make it easier and more comfortable to land the biggest catch of the day, in all types of weather and waterways. The two biggest sport fishing boat builders are Hatteras and Viking, and popular options also include Ranger Boats and Triton Boats.

Start your search for sportfish boats on YATCO here.  

Best Pontoon Boat Brands

Pontoon boats make excellent day boats to head out on the water with friends and family. While they may not be as sporty as other boats on our list, or capable of heading out into the open ocean, they are definitely a great way to enjoy splashing around in the water for the day. Prince and Tahoe are both reputable brands you can seek out when in the market to purchase a pontoon boat. 

Click here for YATCO’s listings of pontoon boats for sale. 

Best Runabout Boat Brands

Runabout boats make excellent day boats or even tenders to larger superyachts. Some runabouts may have a small cabin and head onboard, but they are usually just for day trips. You’ll come across a wide variety of respectable runabout boat companies like Chaparral, Chris-Craft, Cruisers Yachts and Riva.
For a full listing of runabout boats for sale, click here.   

Best Speed Boat Brands

Speed boat brands are those you’ll want to take out on the water when speed is your number one goal. Built for thrill seekers and water sports, speed boats are usually fast, sleek and powerful motorboats. You’ll likely come across Cigarette, Franchini, and Maori when looking for popular speed boat brands.  

Try searching for new and used powerboats for sale, and new and used performance boats for sale if you have a need for speed. 

Best Ski and Wake Boat Brands

Ski boats are specially built power boats for those who enjoy participating in water sports when on the water. They are usually built for speed, agility and with special tow points so they can easily tow water skiers behind the boat. Chris-Craft, Malibu Boats, Mastercraft, and Nautique are all great ski boat brands to look at. 

Start your search for ski boats for sale on YATCO now.

Best Welded Aluminum Boat Brands

Welded aluminum boats are watercraft constructed primarily from aluminum alloy sheets that are welded together to form the hull. The most popular builders of well aluminium boats include Crestliner and Ranger Boats.

Best Boat Brands by Category

Best for Families:

  • Sea Ray: Known for spacious, comfortable designs perfect for family outings.
  • Chaparral: Offers versatile models with family-friendly features.

Best for Sport:

  • Regal: High-performance boats ideal for speed and water sports.
  • MasterCraft: Renowned for ski and wake boats.

Best for Luxury:

  • Sunseeker: Luxurious yachts with top-tier amenities.
  • Princess Yachts: Exceptional craftsmanship and elegance.

Best for Fishing:

  • Boston Whaler: Unsinkable hulls and durable designs.
  • Grady-White: Superior stability in rough waters.

Best for Bass Fishing:

  • Ranger: Industry leader with a reputation for innovation.
  • Nitro: High-performance, tournament-ready bass boats.

What is a good brand? 

Is Bayliner a good boat brand? 

Bayliner is a reputable boat brand known for producing affordable and versatile fiberglass motorboats, including express cruisers. It’s an excellent choice for first-time boat owners and those seeking practical, easy-to-handle vessels for family outings and recreational boating. Bayliner boats are well-regarded for their value and ease of use.

Is Chaparral a good boat brand? 

Chaparral is a highly regarded boat brand known for its quality craftsmanship in fiberglass sport boats, bowriders, fishing boats, and luxury vessels. They are recognized for their innovative designs, durable construction, and attention to detail, making them a top choice for boaters seeking performance and comfort.

Is Cobalt a good boat brand? 

Cobalt is an excellent boat brand, known for its high-quality, large family cruisers, runabouts, and luxury speedboats. Cobalt boats are celebrated for their superior craftsmanship, premium materials, and exceptional performance, making them a top choice for boaters who prioritize comfort, style, and reliability on the water.

Is Crownline a good boat brand? 

Crownline is a well-regarded boat brand known for building high-quality sterndrive bowriders, cruisers, and deck boats. They are praised for their stylish designs, attention to detail, and solid performance, making them a popular choice for boaters who value both aesthetics and functionality on the water.

Is Cruisers Yachts a good boat brand?

Cruisers Yachts is a highly respected boat brand known for its attention to detail, craftsmanship, and innovative designs. With a long-standing reputation in the boating industry, they are recognized for producing luxury yachts that offer both comfort and performance, making them a top choice for discerning boaters.

Is Four Winns a good boat brand? 

Four Winns is a reputable boat brand known for producing high-quality fiberglass runabouts, bowriders, cruisers, and sport boats. They are celebrated for their innovative designs, solid construction, and attention to detail, making them a great choice for boaters seeking a reliable and stylish vessel for recreational use.

Is Glastron a good boat brand? 

Glastron is a well-regarded boat brand known for its stylish and affordable bowriders, ideal for those who enjoy day trips on the water. With a legacy of innovation and performance, Glastron boats are a great choice for boaters seeking a reliable, easy-to-handle vessel with a sleek design.

Is Larson a good boat brand? 

Larson is a well-known boat brand with a solid reputation for building reliable fiberglass boats, particularly favored by fishing enthusiasts. Their boats are appreciated for their durability, performance, and user-friendly designs, making them a good choice for those looking for a dependable fishing vessel.

Is Malibu Boats a good boat brand?

Malibu Boats is a top-tier, award-winning brand known for its exceptional quality, especially in the watersports and wakeboarding industry. Their boats are celebrated for innovative designs, advanced technology, and superior performance, making them a favorite among enthusiasts who seek the best experience on the water.

Is Maxum a good boat brand? 

Maxum Boats, though no longer in production, was known for building well-crafted fiberglass cruising boats. These vessels are still highly regarded in the brokerage market for their solid construction and performance, making them a reliable choice for buyers looking for quality used boats at a good value.

Is Monterey a good boat brand?

Monterey is a reputable boat brand known for constructing high-quality fiberglass sport boats, sport yachts, and outboards. They are praised for their stylish designs, reliable performance, and attention to detail, making them a solid choice for boaters seeking a versatile and well-crafted vessel for various water activities.

Is Nautic Star a good boat brand? 

Nautic Star is a highly regarded boat brand known for producing high-performance fishing boats, deck boats, and offshore boats. They are appreciated for their durability, innovative designs, and versatility, making them an excellent choice for anglers and families seeking a reliable and capable vessel for various water activities.

Is Ranger Boats a good boat brand?

Ranger Boats is a highly respected brand known for its diverse range of fishing boats, including bass boats, multi-species boats, aluminum boats, and saltwater boats. They are celebrated for their durable construction, innovative designs, and angler-focused features, making them a top choice for serious fishermen.

Is Regal a good boat brand? 

Regal is a highly regarded boat brand known for its innovation, quality craftsmanship, and stylish designs. They produce a range of boats, including sport boats, cruisers, and yachts, all built with attention to detail and performance. Regal boats are celebrated for their luxury features, comfort, and reliability, making them a popular choice for boaters seeking both style and substance.

Is Rinker a good boat brand? 

Rinker is a well-regarded boat brand known for building reliable and affordable fiberglass boats, including runabouts, bowriders, and cruisers. They are appreciated for their solid construction, practical designs, and value, making them a popular choice for families and recreational boaters seeking quality and comfort on the water.

Is Robalo a good boat brand? 

Robalo is a highly respected boat brand, especially in the fishing community. They are known for building exceptionally well-constructed center consoles, dual consoles, and walkarounds. Robalo boats are celebrated for their durability, performance, and angler-friendly designs, making them an excellent choice for fishing enthusiasts who value quality and reliability on the water.

Is Sea Ray Boats a good boat brand? 

Sea Ray Boats is a highly reputable brand known for its wide range of quality boats, including sport boats, pleasure boats, bowriders, cabin cruisers, and deck boats. They are celebrated for their innovative designs, luxury features, and reliable performance, making them a top choice for recreational boating enthusiasts.

Is Stingray a good boat brand? 

Stingray is a reputable boat brand known for specializing in performance-oriented boats, including center consoles, dual consoles, and deck boats. Stingray boats are recognized for their innovative designs, fuel efficiency, and solid construction, making them a great choice for boaters who prioritize speed, handling, and overall value on the water.

Is Tahoe a good boat brand? 

Tahoe is a solid boat brand known for building versatile and affordable fiberglass bowriders and deck boats. They are designed for family fun, watersports, and leisure cruising, making them a popular choice for recreational boaters. Tahoe boats are praised for their user-friendly features, comfort, and reliability on the water.

Is Triton Boats a good boat brand?

Triton Boats is a highly respected brand, particularly among anglers, known for producing high-quality fishing boats. They specialize in bass boats, aluminum boats, and saltwater models, all designed with durability, performance, and angler-specific features in mind. Triton is a reliable choice for serious fishermen seeking a dependable and well-built vessel.

As you can see, there are a wide variety of boat styles, sizes and models to choose from when searching for your next boat. While the “best” boat brand option will depend on the personal choices and preferences of the buyer, you’ll have no shortage of options in seeking your own favorite boat too. To start your search with YATCO, search here for boats for sale, or larger yachts for sale.   

Click here to see all of the types of boats for sale on YATCO, or here for the yacht types for sale

Find a number of our other helpful boat guides below. 

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