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Best Boat Brands: Which are the Top Boat Manufacturers & Brands?

Are you thinking about buying a boat? The thought of getting out onto the water for some fun is exciting. Boating is a great pastime for families and friends and a great way to strengthen your relationships while you enjoy the fresh air and natural surroundings.

However, choosing a boat is like buying a car. Some manufacturing brands have a better reputation in the market than others. For instance, we all know the prestige of buying a Mercedes-Benz versus a VW Golf or an F150 truck.

It’s the same with boats; some brands offer you a more premium boating experience than others. If you have no experience in the boating industry, you probably have no idea about the difference between boating brands. So, which offers you the best balance of performance, design, reliability, and luxury for your time out on the water.

That’s okay; we did the research for you. This guide unpacks our choices for the best boat brands available. Each brand has a different approach to building boats and the prices they ask for their models.

We’ll make our recommendations on the best model to suit your activities out on the water and your budget. Are you ready? Let’s dive in!

Boston Whaler

If you’re looking for the best boat brand available, then we have to say that Boston Whaler is one of the leading brands at the top of the heap. Boston Whaler offers you a wide range of models and lengths, with boats anywhere from 11′ to 42′ and 38 models to choose from for your preferred activities.

Whether you’re keen on fishing , watersports , or you want a watercraft suitable as an all-rounder, Boston Whaler has the boat for you. The brand has a 60-year legacy as one of the best boat-building brands in the world, with a reputation for manufacturing “unsinkable” boats.

While the build quality in Boston Whaler watercraft is nothing short of excellent, there are plenty of other boat brands out there that offer you the same level of design and performance , so why go with BW over others?

One of the main reasons we recommend you get a BW is the brand’s excellent retention of its resale value. Boats depreciate in value like cars, but Boston Whaler vessels seem to hold their retail value better than many other brands.

Take a look in the pre-owned market, and you’ll find that a 24-footer that’s in good condition at around a $60,000 price point. An 18-footer could retail in pre-owned condition for as much as $25,000. That’s almost the same retail price as a new model.

BW has an excellent industry reputation, and they boast an astounding 15 consecutive CSIA awards, with seven NMMA Innovation awards over the last decade.

Visit Boston Whaler

Bertram is another leading boat brand with an excellent range and world-class build quality. If you drive into a marina, you’re likely to see more than a few of the legendary Bertram 35 models floating in the slips.

Bertram doesn’t offer you the extensive range of models that you get with Boston Whaler. Instead, it focuses its energy on refining its three models, the 35, 50, and 61. As a result, you get a boat engineered to perfection, offering you the best balance of performance and efficiency, with long service life and high build quality.

This iconic boatbuilder won the Boat Trader “Boating Madness” customer popularity showdown, showing a huge loyal following for the brand.

While Bertram reduced its range of boats to just three models, you can find plenty of the older 28 and 31 models available on the pre-owned market, and Bertram still produces spares for these models. Like BW, Bertram boats also hold their value in the secondary market.

Visit Bertram

Chaparral is one of the most popular boating brands in the world. Pull into a marina, and you’re likely to see more than a few of the legendary 257 SSX waiting to go out to sea. Chaparral has a wide range of models, from bowriders to bay boats and dedicated watersports and cruiser models in lengths from 19′ to 33′.

The balance of affordability and performance offered with the Chaparral range makes it one of the best-selling brands in the world. The brand scored big in the Boat Trader Boating Madness tournament, and it’s one of the most searched boating brands online.

Visit Chaparral

Chris-Craft

Chris-Craft is one of the more established boat brands in the market. Founded in 1874, the company has nearly a century and a half of building some of the most revered watercraft in the business. The Chris-Craft Corsair 34 is a great example of a top model from this brand.

The Chris-Craft Launch 36 won the award for Boat of the Year in 2014, and it’s one of the brand’s top-selling models. You get a combination of the best characteristics of a cruiser, with an open-plan and elegant design.

The new models from the brand, like the Chris-Craft Catalina 26, are an example of a class-leading boat with outstanding design and build quality. The range doesn’t hold its resale value as well as BW or Bertram, but they do better than most other brands in the pre-owned market.

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Wellcraft is a leading manufacturing brand in boats, with an excellent reputation.

You get plenty of features and excellent performance from all the boats in the Wellcraft range. The Wellcraft 352 Fisherman is our choice for one of the best-dedicated fishing boats available. If you want to get out for some angling in deep waters or on the lake, this model is a top choice.

Boat owners choose Wellcraft boats for simplistic operation, high safety standards, and top-quality finishes.

Wellcraft hand-builds its boats to the highest quality standards, with four models in its range. Wellcraft gives you options for its Sportsman, Coastal, Scarab, and Fisherman models for specific use out on the water.

The Coastal is an express cruiser offering you world-class features and a level of luxury that satisfies the most demanding needs for any boating enthusiast. The 290 Coastal is one of the top-selling boats in Florida, and you’ll find them in almost every marina across the state’s coastline.

Wellcraft also excels in its Fisherman range, producing a range of boats for sports-specific fishing offshore or in inland waters.

Visit Wellcraft

Grady-White

Grady-White is another leading global boat brand worthy of a place in this review. The brand has an excellent reputation for building top-of-the-line expresses, center consoles, along with dual-consoles like the Freedom 307 model.

Grady-White has an impeccable customer service and satisfaction record and one of the industry’s best reputations for build quality and design. The brand also has several industry awards, including the J.D. Power and Associates, Marine Matrix, and NMMA CSI awards.

Like Boston Whaler, Grady-White has one of the best resale values on the pre-owned market .

Visit Grady-White

Lund also deserves a spot on this list. The boating brand has one of the best industry names in the game, and the Lund Pro Guide is an excellent example of one of the flagship models from this manufacturing brand.

Founded in 1948, Lund has nearly 75-years of experience building high-quality aluminum watercraft. The brand frequently tops the rankings in customer service and satisfaction surveys, winning an NMMA Innovation Award in 2020, with BoatU.S. Magazine nominating the brand as “Best Boat For Your Money.”

Lund offers you a high-quality design and excellent performance in an affordable package. You get a complete range of models, from Jon boats to sports-specific, fishing, and pontoon models.

MasterCraft

If you’re looking for a sports-specific model for wakeboarding or skiing , MasterCraft is an affordable and reliable boating brand.

MasterCraft earned the 6th place ranking on the Ranker Boat Brand rating system, and it’s the winner of five innovation awards in the last six years, making it a thoughtful and functional design.

We like the brand’s industry-leading 5-year “MasterCare” warranty offered on all its boats. You get full cover for any problems with your boat, and the warranty is also transferable when selling the vessel in the pre-owned market.

Visit Mastercraft

Sea Ray is another leading manufacturing brand deserving of a place on our list. Sea Ray produces award-winning boats in several categories, and it lands at the top of the list on Ranker, and it’s a dealer’s top choice in boating brands.

Sea Ray has headquarters in Knoxville, Tennessee. The brand manufacturers 40 boat models available in different lengths. You get boats ranging from 19′ bow-riders to 65′ luxury power yachts. Some of the top-selling models in the range include the Sundancer, a luxury cabin cruiser, and its “L-Class,” standing for “Luxury.

When it comes to a brand delivering top levels of performance, luxury, and value, you can’t beat Sea Ray. Sea Ray boat dealers frequent the Boating Industry’s Top-100 dealers list more than any other boat manufacturing brand.

Visit Searay

Yamaha is one of the most trusted brands in watercraft., The company has a huge range, offering you everything from sports-specific models to PWCs . The AR190 model is a top-selling sports boat with an excellent industry reputation as one of the best models available for its price, performance, and value.

Yamaha produces the best range of jet-powered watercraft available, with innovative technology and a build-quality that you would expect from a leading Japanese manufacturing brand. The brand frequently lands at the top of customer satisfaction surveys for boats in the 19′ to 24′ range.

They are a top-searched boat brand online, and they hit #8 on the Ranker list. You get any model you could want from Yamaha, from bowriders and bay boats to dedicated watersports models for skiing and fishing. Yamaha builds its reputation around performance and reliability, and they hold its value in the secondary market.

While they previously had a reputation as a sports-specific brand, the company recently branched out into the world of fishing boats, offering you a pair of jet-powered center console models that are a ground-breaking innovation in fishing boat design.

Visit Yamaha Boats

Tracker is one of the most popular fishing boat brands on the market. The company also produces an exceptional line of pontoon boats , making them a great choice for anyone looking for a dedicated fishing vessel, dive boat, or party boat.

The Sun Tracker model is one of the best-selling ranges in pontoon boats, and they have several awards, including winning the NMMA CSI award for the last six consecutive years. This brand specializes in dedicated fishing vessels and utility boats, and it’s a great choice for an all-aluminum model.

Tracker gives you a 5-year warranty on all its boats, and the warranty is transferable into the secondary market. You also get a limited lifetime warranty on the frame for peace of mind.

Visit Tracker

Viking Yachts

Viking Yachts are a great choice if you’re looking for a luxury vessel . The Viking 68C is the flagship model from the brand and an indicator of what you can expect from Viking’s build quality and performance.

While Viking is an expensive brand, they make up for the high price tags on their vessels with outstanding build-quality, performance, and an excellent resale value on the secondary market. These boats are nothing short of beautiful to behold, but they are hard to find due to the high price tag associated with all models in the Viking range.

Viking manufactures yachts from 37′ to 93′ feet, and you have options for motor yacht and fishing boat designs.

Visit Viking Yachts

Bayliner is one of the most popular entry-level boating brands on the market. They have a huge following, and you’ll probably see these boats at any marina you visit on either coast of the United States and around the Gulf of Mexico.

The Bayliner 2021 VR5 Bowrider is the companies flagship model, and the industry-standard all bowriders musty match if they want to gain recognition in the market. With a 60-year legacy in building high-quality, affordable watercraft, Bayliner has a trusted reputation in the United States and worldwide as a leading manufacturing brand.

The VR Series is a legendary range, offering you a high-performance bowrider suitable for use inland and offshore.

Visit Bayliner

John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

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10 Best Boat Brands & Manufacturers: 2023 Edition

Table of Contents

Last Updated on July 12, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

There are countless boat manufacturers and brands, each building unique models. Big ones, small ones, boats with one hull , boats with two or three hulls, boats with pontoons, boats for fishing, boats for cruising, boats for wakeboarding, and more. When you first start looking at boats, this can overwhelm you. You don’t have to search alone; we’ll guide you! Let’s look at 10 of the leading boat manufacturers and brands up-to-date together: 

• Cruisers Yachts 
• Sea Ray 
• Azimut 
• Monterey 
• Chaparral 
• Leopard 
• Everglades 
• Grady White 
• Bennington 
• Malibu 

Rent, Charter, Share— Only at Boatsetter

Cruisers Yachts

Wisconsin-based Cruisers Yachts has been building boats since 1904. It currently has Cantius and GTS lines, with 15 different models between them. The boats range in length overall from 34 feet to 60 feet and can come with everything from open tops to closed tops to flybridges. Generally speaking, Cruisers makes boats for cruising with friends and family. ou can find these boats on the nation’s coasts and on larger lakes. 

Sea Ray is based in Tennessee and has been building boats since 1959. Its Sundancer line is one of the most ubiquitous on America’s waterways; the company also has an SLX series of luxury cruisers, an SDX series for family day-boating, and an SPX series of sport boats that you can sometimes rent with things like wakeboarding towers built-in. You could rent multiple Sea Ray boats on Boatsetter and have a different boating experience every single time. 

Azimut is an Italian boatbuilder that was founded in 1969, and today is part of the Azimut-Benetti Group of shipyards and other companies. Azimut itself has six lines of boats: Fly, S, Grande, Magellano, Verve, and Atlantis. Within those lines, multiple sizes offer increasingly larger versions with more and more features. Overall, Azimut builds boats intended for higher-speed family cruising with chic Italian style. 

Florida’s Monterey Boats got its start in 1985. It has four models currently available: Super Sports, Outboard, M Series (which come with lots of options, so there are lots of versions of them on the waterways), and Sport Boats. When you combine all the lines and sizes within the lines, about 30 different Monterey boats are available—which means many rental opportunities. 

Georgia-based Chaparral boats have been in business since 1965. It makes five lines of boats: SSI Sport Boats, SSI Outboards, SSX Luxury Bowriders, OSX Luxury Outboard Sport Boats , and the Surf line of wakesports boats. Quite a few of Chaparral’s models can be trailered to and from different locations, and the various models can be outfitted with features for cruising, fishing, and water sports. 

Leopard Catamarans builds its boats in Cape Town, South Africa. As the company’s name states, these are cats, not monohulls, which means they have two hulls instead of one. Leopard cats come in power and sail varieties, from about 40 to 53 feet in length overall. Because they’re catamarans , boats with these lengths are much wider than monohulls, giving people more room to stretch out on board.

Florida’s Everglades is a favorite brand among boaters who like to catch fish. The company builds center consoles, dual consoles, and bay boats, and some of its models are regularly seen hunting for big game during professional-angler tournaments in the offshore canyons. On these boats, expect to find things like rod holders, outriggers, bait stations, and other features that are intended to make a day of fishing even more fun. 

Grady-White

Grady-White , based in North Carolina, has been building boats since 1959. It has long been known for its coastal fishing boats, with five lines available today: Center Consoles, Dual Consoles, Coastal Explorers, Express Cabins, and Walkaround Cabins. Many of these boats can be ordered with features that make them equally great for family cruising and fishing, so check the Boatsetter listings for specifics when deciding which one to rent.

Indiana’s Bennington is a leading brand name in pontoon boats, which are often available for rent on lakes and other inland waterways. These are wide, stable boats that can be used for family cruising. Parents with small children tend to like pontoon boats because of the higher sides all around. Bennington makes four lines: the customizable Q Line, the sporty R Bowrider line, the higher-end LX Sport line, and the more traditional SX line. 

Malibu Boats in Tennessee is a brand that’s synonymous with wakeboarding and other tow sports. It makes a dozen different styles of boats that are shaped and outfitted in ways that produce fun-to-ride wakes, step-up features to make it easier to get in and out of the water, seating that lets passengers look forward or aft (at the wakeboarders in the water) and soft-grip flooring so there’s less of a chance of wet feet slipping. The premium sound systems are pretty darn cool, too.

One of the great things about learning through Boatsetter is that you can book a different builder, and even a different model from that builder, every time you head out on the water. Boatsetter rentals are a terrific way to learn which brands and styles of boats are ideally suited to the type of fun you want to have on board. 

About Boatsetter 

Boatsetter is a unique boat-sharing platform that gives everyone — whether you own a boat or you’re just renting — the chance to experience life on the water. You can list a boat , book a boat , or make money as a captain . 

Put your boat to work. Earn an avg. of $20K yearly with Boatsetter

Kim Kavin has been on boats in more than 50 countries and islands, including in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, South Pacific, Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia. She grew up learning to steer a ski boat and Hobie Holder at her grandfather’s lake house in New Jersey, and went on to spend time aboard everything from America’s Cup racing sailboats to submarines. 

Kim is a PADI-certified scuba diver and animal lover who always enjoys a good, long look around a coral reef. Her award-winning writing and editing regularly appears in national marine magazines and on leading websites. In her early years, she was a Dow Jones editing intern and a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism. When she’s not writing, Kim can usually be found hiking northwest New Jersey’s beautiful park trails with her adopted shelter mutt, Ginger.

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Best Outboard Motors

• By Jim Hendricks
• Updated: June 4, 2021

Outboard motors dominate today’s boating market. And with good reason. Today’s outboards are powerful, quiet, reliable, easy to service, and offer excellent power-to-weight ratios, as well as outstanding corrosion resistance. American boaters can choose from more than 180 models (not counting shaft length variants), all four strokes, from manufacturers such as Honda Marine, Mercury Marine, Suzuki Marine, Yamaha Outboards, and others, many in a choice of colors.

Horsepower ratings range from 2.3 to a whopping 600 ponies. Advanced technology abounds, with many models featuring electronic throttle and shift, electric steering, digital integration with your marine electronics , wireless connections to apps that let you view key functions, and more. While many boaters might narrow their search to the best outboard motor for the money, we instead built this list to showcase the best outboards available.

If you own an outboard motor, then you probably already know what you like in terms of brand and horsepower. But, on the other hand, you might be interested to learn about other great outboard motors, in case you buy a second boat or want to repower with the latest outboard technology. With this in mind, we looked at three outboard categories—portables, midsize and big outboards—and highlighted models from the major outboard brands that reflect some of the most notable and innovative engineering and features in each class.

Choosing an outboard motor for your boat is an important decision. Here, then, are 15 of today’s best outboard motors, ordered by horsepower from low to high, defaulting to alphabetical order for like power ratings.

Portable Outboard Motors

Honda Marine BF5

Portability, performance and reliability are the hallmarks of the Honda Marine BF5 tiller-steer outboard model, a motor that’s ideal for small boats and dinghies. The BF5 is equipped with a 0.4-gallon internal fuel tank, the largest in its class. This single cylinder outboard is also easy to pull-start, thanks to a decompression system that bleeds off cylinder pressure to reduce the pulling force. Weighing about 60 pounds, the BF5 is equipped with a 127cc overhead-cam engine that features an Oil Alert system that indicates any drop in oil pressure, automatically limiting the engine speed to 2,300 rpm. The Honda BF5 is available with an optional charging system with a capacity of 6 amps at 12 volts to power electronic devices on board.

Suzuki Marine DF9.9B

This portable outboard is the only motor in its class with electronic fuel injection for easy starting, strong acceleration and smooth operation at all engine speeds. Even more impressive is that Suzuki DF9.9B’s EFI system does not require a battery. The two-cylinder 327cc overhead-cam engine also features Suzuki’s proven Lean Burn Control System for outstanding fuel efficiency from low idle speeds well up into the cruising range. Weighing 108 pounds (20-inch model), this motor is available with electric or manual start with a decompression system for easy pull-starts. Suzuki’s class-leading 327cc displacement delivers plenty of torque for pushing inflatables, small fishing boats and more. Power tilt and trim is optional.

Yamaha Outboards High-Thrust T9.9

The Yamaha T9.9 is one of today’s smallest and lightest high-thrust 9.9 hp outboard motors and serves a perfect kicker outboard for a variety of boats. Weighing 102 pounds (20-inch model), the T9.9′s 212cc, two-cylinder, overhead-cam engine provides smooth, reliable power and torque with outstanding fuel efficiency. Yamaha’s patented dual-thrust propeller offers robust forward and reverse thrust. Shallow Water Drive System or Power Tilt allows the operator to raise the outboard during low-speed operation or fully tilt the outboard up. A freshwater flushing device at the front of the outboard allows for easy maintenance and increased longevity. Resting pads enhance storage capability.

Mercury Marine 20 EFI FourStroke

Designed for anglers, recreational boaters and commercial operators, the Mercury 20 hp FourStroke features battery-free electronic fuel injection for reliable starting, instant throttle response, strong performance and superb fuel efficiency. Weighing in at 99 pounds, this outboard model is among the lightest in its class. Available with electric start, this engine is designed with ease of maintenance, featuring a clean, no-drip, no-spill oil-drain system. The 20 hp EFI FourStroke features an award-winning multi-function tiller handle, offering ambidextrous operation. Its vertical down-stop is adjustable to accommodate specific boat layouts and transoms.

Midsize Outboard Motors

Mercury Racing 60R

The only outboard motor in its class available as a 15-inch model, the Mercury Racing 60R fits perfectly on the transom of flats skiffs and other small high-performance boats. Featuring a high-thrust gearcase, this outboard motor is geared to deliver strong hole-shot for jumping on plane in shallow water. The smallest outboard motor in the Mercury Racing line, it features a four-cylinder, 1.0-liter long-stroke powerhead tuned for torque. Wide-open throttle range is extended to 6,300 rpm to maximize acceleration and enable more propping options. Weighing in at 268 pounds, it can accommodate a lower poling platform while eliminating the need for a jack plate

Suzuki DF70A

Known for delivering strong fuel efficiency and long-run reliability, Suzuki’s DF70A pushed a 17-foot Hell’s Bay flats skiff to victory in the 2021 Florida Skiff Challenge, a non-stop, 1,300-mile race around the entire Florida coastline. This four-cylinder engine features dual overhead cams, four-valves-per-cylinder and electronic fuel injection with Suzuki’s Lean Burn Control. Weighing 343 pounds and boasting 9.17 liters of displacement, it’s the only motor in the class with an offset driveshaft for better weight distribution and balance on the transom. Suzuki’s two-stage gear reduction and 2.59:1 gear ratio delivers snappy acceleration and top-end performance. This motor also features a self-adjusting and self-lubricating timing chain and powerful 27-amp alternator for tech-laden boats.

Yamaha Outboards F70

Yamaha’s F70 outboard motor is perfect for family fishing and fun. Weighing 253 pounds, it’s the lightest in class and delivers quick starts, high performance and efficiency for aluminum fishing boats, pontoons and fiberglass boats. This 1.0-liter engine also boasts the best horsepower-per-liter ratio in its class. It offers four-valve-per-cylinder and single cam design with electronic fuel injection. A high gear-ratio and 6,300 rpm wide-open throttle rating combine with a compact single-throttle valve and long-track induction system for maximum power and thrust. The F70 integrates with Yamaha’s CL5 and CL7 touchscreen displays.Yamaha’s Multi-Function tiller handle is also an option for the F70.

Honda Marine BF90

Inspired by the engine of the Honda Fit car, the BF90′s 1.5-liter, 16-valve four-cylinder features multi-port electronic fuel injection. Weighing 359 pound (20-inch model), it comes with a multi-function display and an optional tiller handle that includes a larger shift lever, a power trim and tilt switch, handle height adjustment and trolling-speed control. The patented Blast system advances ignition timing during hard acceleration for powerful hole shots, while a Lean Burn Control system adjusts the air/fuel mixture to maximize fuel efficiency at cruise. A three-way cooling system promotes long-term durability. Honda’s Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) improves torque and power at higher rpm.

Mercury Marine 115 hp Pro XS

The 115 hp Pro XS has been powering bass boaters and other performance enthusiasts since its launch in 2016. Built on the proven 2.1-liter four-cylinder platform, this outboard motor lives up to the Pro XS reputation for hole shot, top-end speed, and durability. It delivers outstanding zero-to-20 mph heavy-load acceleration and a blistering top speed. At 359 pounds, it’s the lightest weight high-output engine in its class. In addition, the 115 hp Pro XS features the Idle-Charge Battery Management system, ensuring peace of mind for a full day on the water. Available with the standard or larger Command Thrust gearcase, this outboard motor is perfect for boaters looking to maximize performance on their bass boats, multi-species boats, bay boats and pontoons.

Big Outboard Motors

Honda Marine BF250

The flagship of the Honda outboard line, the BF250 outboard motor integrates an innovative design, a sleek progressive V-form style, improved corrosion resistance, streamlined maintenance, and an expanded number of rigging options. Weighing 622 pounds (25-inch model), the 3.58-liter V-6 is available with either Intelligent Shift and Throttle (iST) or electronic controls or mechanical controls. Technological innovations include Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC), Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) to delivers precise amounts of fuel and air to each cylinder, Boosted Low Speed Torque (BLAST) to increase performance and acceleration; and Lean Burn Control to maximize fuel efficiency in cruise mode. The motor also features digital line redundancy for added protection against connection failure.

Yamaha Outboards F300 Offshore

Yamaha’s updated F300 Offshore Digital Electronic Control (DEC) model features Digital Electric Steering (DES) and Thrust Enhancing Reverse Exhaust (TERE) and other XTO Offshore-inspired features. Fast and precise Digital Electric Steering (DES) draws battery amperage only when active. The 4.2-liter EFI V-6 incorporates Thrust Enhancing Reverse Exhaust (TERE) that allows the propeller to bite clean water for strong reverse thrust. Yamaha’s TotalTilt function allows complete tilt up from any position with a double push of the “UP” button, or full tilt down with a double push of the “down” button. Weighing 562 pounds (25-inch model), F300 has a color-matched lower unit, an upgraded one-piece top cowling with water-draining air duct molding and a new bottom cowling.

Suzuki Marine DF350A

Suzuki’s flagship DF350A was the first outboard to feature dual contra-rotating propellers for superior hole shot and strong acceleration for today’s larger and heavier boats. It also improves top-end speed and enhances low-speed maneuvering. Weighing 727 pounds (25-inch model), this 4.4-liter V-6 features dual fuel injectors for better power output and fuel efficiency, a self-adjusting oil-bathed timing chain with Variable Valve Timing for performance and durability, a dual-louver direct air intake to provide cooler, denser air for more powerful combustion, and Suzuki’s Lean Burn Control technology for optimum efficiency. The drive-by-wire Suzuki Precision Control system delivers silky smooth shifting and instant throttle response, along with a wide range of advanced features for anglers and boaters.

Yamaha Outboards XTO Offshore

The 425 hp XTO Offshore 5.6-liter V-8 outboard motor combines power, reliability, system integration, control and convenience. The first four-stroke outboard to use direct fuel injection, the XTO Offshore sprays fuel at high pressure directly into the combustion chamber, rather than the intake track, improving atomization and increasing fuel burn effectiveness to maximize power and efficiency. Weighing 952 pounds (25-inch model), this outboard motor also features integrated electric steering, eliminating hydraulic lines, fluid and linkages. It allows for clean rigging and an orderly bilge. The XTO provides up to 96 amps (net) at idle and reaches peak output around 1,500 rpm. It is compatible with Yamaha’s Helm Master joystick control system.

Mercury Racing 450R

The hand-craft 450R has elevated the definition of outboard motor performance. Boosted by an exclusive supercharger, the 4.6-liter V-8 FourStroke powerhead delivers 450 peak horsepower—40 percent more torque than the powerful 400R. Weighing 689 pounds, it is 300 pounds lighter than the nearest competitor. The exclusive Mercury Racing Advanced Mid Section (AMS) features heavy-duty stainless-steel guide plates and stiffened engine mounts that stabilize the outboard and enhance high-speed handling. An optional rear tie-bar bracket integral to the AMS provides a strong, ultra-light mounting point and uncluttered installation for catamaran and other high-speed applications. The 450R outboard is backed by a three-year limited factory warranty and a three-year limited corrosion warranty, the same as Mercury mainline outboards.

Mercury Marine V12 Verado

The new V12 Verado is in a class of its own, providing the ultimate boating experience for customers. Incorporating industry-first innovations, the 600 hp Verado includes a two-speed transmission, steerable gearcase, and 7.6-liter V-12 powerhead that differentiate it from any other outboard motor. Weighing 1,260 pounds, the V12 is Mercury’s quietest high horsepower engine ever built. Contra-rotating propellers maximize thrust and ease low-speed maneuvering. Maintenance has also been simplified—service intervals have been extended and all regular maintenance points are accessible via the top cowl service hood, meaning the top cowl does not need to be removed for 1,000 hours or five years. It is not an exaggeration to say that the Mercury V12 Verado establishes a new benchmark for marine propulsion.

• More: Boats , Engines , honda marine , mercury marine , outboards , suzuki marine , Yamaha

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Top 5 Outboard Motor Brands Ranked

by Mobile Motorboat Mechanics | Feb 5, 2023

1. Yamaha Outboard 

Known for their reliability, Y am aha Out board Motors are the ideal choice for any adventurous bo ater looking for consistent performance and superior power . With advanced designs , these out board motors deliver an incredible combination of power , torque , refined performance and fuel efficiency . Built with innovative technology , Yamaha out board motors are designed to maximize power , reliability and fuel efficiency when you ’ re out on the water . Models in both two – stroke and four – stroke configurations offer superior torque and smooth acceleration that are sure to make your bo ating experience even more enjoyable .

On top of that , Yamaha ’ s unique complementary systems ensure maximum control and responsiveness , giving you complete confidence when the waves get rough . Back ed by a 3 – year limited warranty and unbeat able quality , Yamaha Out board Motors provide depend able and powerful performance for your next n autical adventure .

2. Mercury Outboards

With a variety of different options, Mercury Outboard Motors are the best choice for any type of boating experience, offering high-performance engines and innovative designs to make your next journey a memorable one. From leisurely days on the lake to getting through rough waters, these advanced outboard motors provide superior power, performance, and durability. Boasting modern designs in both two-stroke and four-stroke models, along with various power ratings, Mercury Outboard Motors provide peace of mind and plenty of get up and go for a safe and comfortable ride. Thanks to exclusive features such as optimized fuel economy, improved throttle response and integrated Digital Throttle & Shift functionality, you can enjoy smooth, effortless acceleration and precise control. Durable construction, backed by a 3 year limited non-declining warranty, ensures that Mercury Outboard Motors deliver reliable power and performance every time you hit the water.

3. Suzuki Outboards

While not quite as reliable, Suzuki Outboard Motors offer a great range of performance and power for recreational and commercial boaters alike. Combining innovative engineering with proven design technology, these outboard motors provide superior torque, smooth acceleration and steady performance, with reliable fuel economy across a range of four-stroke models. Thanks to advanced systems and innovative features, the driving experience with a Suzuki Outboard is second to none, allowing for greater control and precision on the water. Each motor is backed by a 3-year limited warranty and designed for maximum durability, making Suzuki Outboard Motors the perfect choice for a reliable, powerful and enjoyable journey.

4. Evinrude + Johnson Outboards

Evinrude Outboard Motors make the perfect addition to any boating excursion. With models available in two stroke configurations, these reliable outboard motors provide a range of power and torque to get you to your destination with ease. Evinrude’s advanced designs optimize performance, maximizing fuel economy and performance so you can enjoy a smooth and efficient ride. Thanks to features such as the E-TEC Direct Injection Technology, Evinrude engines provide improved throttle response and optimal fuel burn for a smooth, reliable ride, while their advanced cooling systems reduce the risk of overheating, ensuring peak performance and total control. Backed by a 3-year limited warranty, Evinrude Outboard Motors are the perfect choice for all types of boating adventure.

5. Honda, Tohatsu, Force, and Mariner Outboard Motors

Coming in 5th is a four way tie between the Honda, Tohatsu, Force, and Mariner brands. Why are these ranked so low? Simple – many technicians refuse to work on these due to limited parts availability, lack of training and limited experience. Sure – these can be a good deal – but unless you plan on repairing yourself we suggest you look elsewhere.

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2023 Motor Boat Awards winners: Best motorboats of the year revealed

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It has taken months of testing, weeks of analysing and days of deliberating amongst our judges but the 2023 Motor Boat Awards winners can now be revealed....

As always, we have chosen a winner in each of our ten categories based on how well the boat performed during our rigorous sea trials but also how well it meets the requirements of its target market in relation to its size, style and price.

In some categories, we have also awarded a Highly Commended, not because it’s the nearest runner-up but because the judges feel it has some exceptional talent or innovation that is worthy of recognition.

Last but not least, we’d like to thank Sleipner for once again partnering with us as the headline sponsor of the 2023 Motor Boat Awards and our category sponsors Garmin and The Moorings .

2023 Motor Boat Awards winners revealed

Customer service award.

Sponsored by Garmin

Approved Boats, Boats.co.uk, Gibbs Quay Boat Sales, Haven Knox-Johnston

Winner – Gibbs Quay Boat Sales

This is the only award that is open to nominations from members of the public. However, the judges base their decision not just on the number of nominations each company gets (as this would always favour bigger companies with more customers) but also on the quality of service provided to these customers.

This year, we had more nominations than ever before, with several previous winners making it through to our shortlist of finalists, proving that good customer service isn’t just a passing phase but permanently ingrained in the culture of the best companies.

This year’s winner also enjoys a long track record of looking after its customers and particularly of helping new buyers take their first tentative steps into boating – a daunting prospect for many. This is what a few of their recent customers had to say about them:

“The after-sales experience has totally matched the pre-sales experience, dealing with minor niggles and providing us with unlimited technical advice.” “They made us feel welcome from day one and had the patience of a saint as we chose our new boat. They are a credit to the marine industry.” “Excellent after-sales service, prompt and professional boat service and good advice given at all times.”

Sportsboats up to 30ft

Aquaspirit 585 ,  Iron Boats 827 ,  Quarken 27 T-Top ,  Ryck 280 ,  X Shore Eelex 8000

Winner – Quarken 27 T-Top

Quarken’s 27 T-Top is an object lesson in practical dayboat design. Proudly built in Finland, it uses a single Yamaha F300 outboard motor for a 43-knot top end and cruising efficiency only a shade over 1.5 litres per nautical mile.

It’s fun to drive, with a novice-friendly hull and an effective helm position with direct access to a ‘skipper’s cleat’ for single-handed work. And it looks cool too, with its sleek stepped hull, flared bow and contrasting tinted panels.

There’s also masses of storage on board and all of it is useable, thanks to sensible proportions, proper linings, dual access points and quick-lift one-handed cushions. But it’s the ease of movement that really hits home.

Even if you reverse the helm seats to integrate with the diners at the aft bench, you can still pass them freely on the starboard side. And when you reach the bow, whether the forward seats are rigged for dining or sunbathing, the step-through forepeak with offset anchor means you can still disembark without obstruction.

There’s no wet bar and the heads is an open-plan affair but if you want a proper open dayboat with a serviceable cuddy at a sensible price, this is a superb debut from Quarken.

Highly commended – Iron Boats 827

Fast, agile and well-priced, with a brilliant Mannerfelt hull and a cool military aesthetic, the Iron Boats 827 is one of the most entertaining boats you will ever drive.

Weekenders over 30ft

Aquila 32 ,  Duchy Sport ,  De Antonio D36 ,  Galeon 325 GTO ,  Jeanneau Cap Camarat 12.5 ,  Rand Escape 30

Winner – De Antonio D36

De Antonio has become well-known for its unique take on the outboard-powered weekender and its new D36 is a fine exponent of that approach. It uses a raised sunbed to cover its motors, with a clever transverse tender slot and a full inboard-style swim platform.

It counteracts that extra aft weight with a pair of hull extensions for extra buoyancy – and when you get the boat under way, that translates into the kind of flat-running 50-knot performance that thoroughly validates De Antonio’s way of doing things.

Further forward, there’s a central dining zone opposite a big transverse galley, with a pull-out cushion-topped coolbox that turns it into a dining station for ten. The bow adds another generous sunpad and yet, when you step down below, the calibre of the cabins is way beyond expectations for an open weekender.

There’s a central lounge, a starboard bathroom, a forward double berth with push-button convertibility and a huge full-beam mid-cabin that can be converted from a saloon to a second double in a matter of seconds.

With masses of user-friendly day space, versatile four-berth accommodation and whippet-like performance, this is a truly brilliant family weekender.

Highly commended – Jeanneau Cap Camarat 12.5

The imposing new 12.5 features a deepset cockpit, an expandable port terrace, twin or triple outboards for 45 knots and convertible sleeping for up to five.

Adventure Boats

Axopar 45 Cross Cabin ,  Viggo C8 ,  Wellcraft 355 ,  XO DFNDR 9

Winner – XO DFNDR 9

Very few boats under 30ft offer anything like as much all-round ability as the XO DFNDR 9. Slender and soft-riding, with raised hull sides and a lofty but deepset pilothouse, there is virtually no cruising ground where its practical but innovative walkaround layout wouldn’t excel.

You can slide it onto the beach for a party. You can spend the night in the comfy forward cabin. You can open up the aft end of the pilothouse and enjoy a relaxed sunbathe or a six-man lunch – and you can achieve precisely that same feat up in the bow.

Back in the pilothouse, the helm is superb, there’s ample standing headroom and visibility is also first class. But if you slide those vast glass side panels aft, you can also enjoy the DFNDR 9 in much the same way as an authentic open boat.

Having taken it across the Baltic, we can vouch for its performance too. With twin 225s on the transom, it’s fast, frugal and beautifully balanced.

The fact that it’s built like a tank and looks like a film star is just the crowning glory for an all-action adventure boat that proves just how much can be achieved when intelligent design, quality build and rigorous development come together.

Highly commended – Axopar 45 Cross Cabin

With its stepped hull, sliding wet bar, vast sunroofs, two-part side doors and fold-down bulwarks, this is a fast, versatile adventure boat.

Sportscruisers up to 45ft

Bavaria SR36 ,  Dale Classic 37 ,  Jeanneau DB43 ,  Marex 330 Scandinavia

Winner – Marex 330 Scandinavia

The Marex 330 is full of ideas that directly upgrade your life on the water. There’s a fold-down bench at the aft swim platform and hidden fender slots beneath the side decks. There are aft and side doors, plus a mix of sunroofs and sunshades, so you can tweak the conditions to your needs.

In fact, with an aft curtain that wraps around the cockpit, you could easily use this boat as a four-season cruising machine. But it doesn’t stop there. The cockpit is deep and sociable for large dayboating parties and the saloon dinette uses a pop-out stool and reversing co-pilot bench to make best use of the space.

But the fore and aft dining zones also convert into double berths. And that means you can add another two beds to the forward double and the low-slung mid-cabin and sleep up to eight at a time.

Under way, the 330 makes a mockery of its restrained looks with plenty of poke, outstanding poise and pinpoint handling. You can spec it with single or twin V-drives or sterndrives.

And a beautiful helm position with multiple adjustment points, a wide overhead sunroof, a skipper’s side door and the option of joystick control makes single-handed helming an absolute breeze.

Highly commended – Dale Classic 37

Designed by celebrated Dale stalwart, Arthur Mursell, the new four-berth Classic 37 is built like a tank, styled like a work of art and equipped with a delightfully soft-riding semi-displacement hull.

Sportscruisers over 45ft

Fairline Phantom 65 ,  Pardo 60 Endurance ,  Riva 68 Diable ,  Sunseeker Predator 65

Winner – Fairline Phantom 65

This may be Fairline’s first attempt at a sportsfly design but you’d never guess it from the way it looks, performs and feels. With those sleek, flowing lines, it strikes the perfect balance between elegance and sportiness, yet somehow still manages to pack in up to four cabins below deck and masses of sociable living space inside and out.

Even the flybridge itself, while compact by Squadron standards, has plenty of secure seating, sunpads and a proper wet bar, as well as a comprehensive outside helm station.

However, all of this would count for little if the driving experience failed to live up to Fairline’s usual high standards. Thankfully, it’s even better than we had anticipated, delivering effortless acceleration up to a top speed of 38 knots, responsive handling and the kind of refined, long-legged cruising that feels perfectly in keeping with that other legendary Phantom built by Rolls-Royce motor cars.

Last but by no means least, those impressive dynamic characteristics are backed up by sound practical thinking, a beautifully finished interior and reassuringly solid build quality.

As we said in our original test, the Phantom 65 really does feel like it offers the best of both worlds with the looks and driving characteristics of a traditional sportscruiser but also the comfort and practicality of a flybridge.

Flybridges up to 60ft

Absolute 56 ,  Beneteau Swift Trawler 48 ,  Galeon 500 Fly ,  Leopard 46 Powercat ,  Prestige M48

Winner – Galeon 500 Fly

The Galeon 500 Fly is a supremely innovative boat. Up at the helm, push-button windows aid ventilation and a rotating seat integrates the driver with the starboard bench and the rest of the upper saloon guests.

There’s a pleasantly sociable helm on the flybridge too, with forward sunbeds and a wraparound lounge, plus a port wet bar and a huge dining space aft.

And back down on the bow, a big triangular dining area with comfy backrests provides all kinds of convertibility, including incline control for the sunlounger and sliding forward benches for a larger party.

Down below, there’s masses of natural light from oversized windows and skylights. But it’s the aft part of the main deck that really stands out. The port balcony folds down so you can perch on a stool and take advantage of the galley’s inside-outside bar.

On the other side, the saloon opens up, enabling the settee to reverse and face out over its own terrace. And in the aft cockpit, a spinning carousel enables you to face in whichever direction you choose.

In short, with its combination of rotating seats, twin terraces and inside-outside zones, the 500 Fly is more rewarding than any other boat in its sector.

Highly commended – Prestige M48

In addition to three double cabins, each with its own bathroom and staircase, the Prestige M48 provides a stupendous amount of day space and a drive as novice-friendly as any you will see.

Flybridges over 60ft

Absolute 60 Fly ,  Azimut 68 ,  Numarine 22 XP ,  Sirena 68 ,  Sirena 78

Winner – Sirena 68

It’s hard to believe that Sirena Yachts has only been making motor boats under its own name for a little over five years but with plenty of prior experience building high-quality motor yachts for Azimut, and the talents of world-renowned yacht designers German Frers and Cor D. Rover to assist them, it has gone from zero to hero in record time.

We tested two new models in 2022 alone, both of which made it through to our shortlist. But it’s the 68 which we feel is the more rounded package, offering the perfect balance of size, style, ability and price.

That starts with a modern yet elegant design that manages to pack a high-quality, high-volume interior into a surprisingly sleek exterior.

Then there’s the robust semi-displacement hull with its category A RCD rating that is just as happy batting aside heavy seas at displacement speeds as it is hoovering up the miles at 25 knots.

That low-speed comfort and stability also plays into the current trend for fuel efficient passage-making, giving a safe cruising range of almost 1,000nm at 9 knots. The result is a wonderfully capable all-rounder that is perfectly in tune with today’s needs at a price that belies its quality.

Highly commended – Absolute 60 Fly

With its versatile deck spaces, vast windows, innovative layout and refined IPS performance, Absolute’s latest flybridge is as comfortable as it is stylish.

Custom Yachts

Sponsored by The Moorings

Azimut Grande 26M ,  Grand Banks 85 ,  Pearl 95 ,  Sunseeker 90 Ocean

Winner – Sunseeker 90 Ocean

We don’t mind admitting that this was the hardest of all the categories to pick a winner in. We could make a case for any one of these finalists winning. However, after much debate we decided to give it to the one we felt was most in tune with what today’s buyers are looking for.

The Sunseeker Ocean 90 has it all: acres of versatile deck spaces packed with innovative solutions like the X-TEND seating; an intimate connection with the sea thanks to the vast sea-level beach club, glass transoms and bulwarks; masses of storage space for tenders, water toys and cruising gear; a wonderfully luxurious interior that makes full use of the unusually wide beam; and a hull that feels very nearly as agile and sea-kindly as some of its overtly sportier siblings.

The fact that this all fits comfortably into a craft with an LOA of 89ft is all the more remarkable, enabling it to offer the same space and luxury as much longer boats but without the associated running costs.

However, the biggest achievement of all is that despite its extra beam and volume and a brand-new hull shape, it still manages to look, feel and drive like a true Sunseeker.

Highly commended – Grand Banks 85

With its slippery hull shape, carbon fibre superstructure and IPS drives, the new GB85 is exceptionally fuel efficient but still just as seaworthy, stylish and beautifully built as its much heavier predecessors.

Judges’ Special Award

Sponsored by Sleipner

Winner – Pearl Yachts

From its humble beginnings in 1998, when a former yacht captain teamed up with a local businessman to launch a stylish new range of aft cabin craft, Pearl Yachts has never shied away from doing things differently.

In the face of vastly bigger, better resourced competition, it has consistently managed to defy the odds, building spacious, cleverly packaged craft with the style and quality to match.

While many of its competitors have been bought, sold or even fallen by the wayside over the intervening years, Pearl Yachts’ small but enthusiastic management team, led by its founder and managing director Iain Smallridge with the backing of its owners Tony and Margaret Whittaker, steered Pearl Yachts through the tough times and continued to invest in new product.

The introduction of world-class designers, Bill Dixon and Kelly Hoppen, in 2012 has ensured that its latest range of yachts are as fresh and innovative as ever, while maintaining the quality-to-price ratio for which they are renowned.

Now boasting a thoroughly modern range of stylish flybridge cruisers from 62ft to 95ft, including a brand new 72ft model and an 82ft project currently in development, Pearl Yachts enters its 25th year in business looking stronger and fitter than ever.

Cruising a motor yacht from Sweden to the remote Lofoten Islands in the far north of Norway

What it’s like on a €70,000 per week, 80ft motor yacht charter, world’s coolest boats: mochi dolphin 64 fly – pulse-pounding pastel panache, latest videos, watch: makai m37 sea trial – £720k cruising cat like nothing you’ve seen before, pearl 82 tour: must-see £6m ‘mini superyacht’, princess s65 sea trial and tour: £2m sportsfly ticks all the boxes, watch: beneteau swift trawler 54 sea trial – £1.4m cruiser is the ultimate home.

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The Best Boat Brands

If you're looking for a new boat, here's a list of boat brands that include the most reliable models available. The best boat brands include those from major manufacturers including Sea Ray Boats, Bayliner, MasterCraft and more. Boats can be categorized into three main types: unpowered or human-powered boats (rafts, canoes, kayaks, gondolas); boats that are propelled by their sails (sailboats); and boats that are propelled by engines (motorboats).

When considering what type of boat you should buy, shoppers should think about a few basic things. Where are you going to use the boat? The best brand of boat will be different depending on whether you are looking for a yacht to party on in the ocean, a gondola to take in a river, a sailboat to use on the coast or a motorboat to take in a lake or bay. How many people do you expect to take on your boat? Is this boat just for you and your partner or do you hope to be able to fit your entire family on the boat? Size of the hull, deck and cabins should all be taken into consideration.

This list will consider all engine and sail-powered boats. So what are the most popular boat brands? Users looking for a new boat will want to research a variety of different brands to find the one that best suits their needs according to design, name brand, buoyancy, size, propulsion and price.

Boston Whaler

Chaparral Steel

Sea Ray Boats, Inc

Grady-White

MasterCraft

Yamaha Boats

Cruiser Yachts

Everglades Boats

Malibu Boats

Carolina Skiff

Grand Banks Yachts Ltd.

Stingray Boats

Tahoe Boats

Caravelle Powerboats

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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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• Outboard Motors

13 Best Outboard Motors  in 2024

By: Shelagh Hogan

Our reviewing team assessed the best outboard motors by reliability and prominence.

We always consider durability, price, quality, and value in our reviews.

Ever since human beings have been traveling on the water we’ve been seeking faster and more efficient ways to do so. From oars and sails to jets and propellers— technology has been adapted to marry speed and efficiency, but in the smallest package possible.

More often, today’s boaters are opting for outboard engines for their “go-fast, get-there” boating needs. And why not? The advantages of an outboard engine are numerous. No through-hull requirement for engine cooling, ease of access for engine maintenance, more horsepower for engine weight, ever-adapting technology for greater fuel economy, relatively simple installation, and an increase in the vessel’s overall maneuverability.

Choosing your first outboard can be an overwhelming task as there are so many options on the market, but fear not; we outline some of the best out there and provide a guide below to aid in your decision-making. Read on!

We’ll start by reviewing different types of outboards and then categorizing each engine by horsepower ranges (small/portable, medium, and large) and highlight their features and benefits.

Sort by your needs:

Westmarine.com

Torqueedo Travel 1103 CS

Where to buy:

Where to buy torqueedo travel 1103 cs:.

If budget isn’t an option, and an environmentally-conscious outboard engine is a priority of yours, Torqueedo is the leader in the electric-powered outboard engines with long and powerful battery life, durable construction, and thrust capabilities comparable to its internal combustion counterparts. They are also extremely portable and lightweight.

• Weight:: 24.9 lbs
• Comparable Thrust Output:: 3 HP
• Engine Type:: Electric Outboard Motor
• Compatible Apps:: iOS & Android

Things we like:

Things we don't like:.

Mercury Marine

Mercury Racing 60R

Where to buy Mercury Racing 60R:

The Mercury Racing designs incorporate a shorter shaft/lower unit assembly to lower the engine’s center of gravity ideal for shallow-water performance that anglers seek. For this reason, bass hunters are particularly fond of this model.

Yamahaoutboards.com

Yamaha F300 Offshore

Where to buy Yamaha F300 Offshore:

The Yamaha F300 Offshore model boasts a “97% for reliability” offshore.  Its construction is lightweight without sacrificing on material quality. It is also available in electric-steering models, eliminating the need for hydraulic lines. With features such as Thrust Enhancing Reverse Exhaust for more efficient performance when operating in reverse, as well as Yamaha Shift-Dampening System to eliminate clunky gear switches, the designers and engineers seem to have thought of it all.

These are popular in the Gulf of Mexico for their performance and reliability. Some serious blue water fishing gets done in boats powered by F300s.

Suzukimarine.com

Suzuki 6 HP DF6A

Where to buy Suzuki 6 HP DF6A:

Next up in the portable outboard lineup is the often-overlooked Suzuki DF6A. This little kicker is lighter and easier to transport than its competitors in the same HP range and with durable construction.

With 6 horsepower, there’s a good ratio of weight to power ratio that’s ideal for bare-bones aluminum boats. Smaller jon boats, for example, will cruise with a decent fuel consumption.

• Weight:: 55 lbs
• Power Output:: 6 HP
• Engine Type:: 2 stroke
• Recommended Transom:: 15-20 inches

Honda 5 HP BF5

Where to buy Honda 5 HP BF5:

This little 5-horse, 4-stroke engine works great as a kicker for your dinghy or a trolling motor for fishing. You’ll get between 3-5 MPH on a 10-foot boat, depending on the weight. While it has a built-in tank, there’s an option to connect an external too. Even though it’s not the quietest engine, it’s  a lightweight outboard motor with a price tag that you can bare comfortably over a few years.

Mercury 15HP Pro Kicker

Where to buy Mercury 15HP Pro Kicker:

If you’re looking for a powerful people-and-gear mover, the Merc 15HP Pro Kicker is worth a look. Its comfortable ambidextrous tiller is the only one on the market and its gear ratio and matching high-thrust propeller make it a top choice in the small outboard category.

Yamaha 15HP

Where to buy Yamaha 15HP:

Yamahas are some of the most common on the market—and some of the most expensive. But a reputation for quality comes at a price and quality is what you will find with Yamaha’s 15HP outboard engine.

Marine.Honda.com

Honda BF250

Where to buy Honda BF250:

Keeping up with the competition means improving the electronic integration abilities of its engines, and Honda’s BF 250HP delivers. Continuing with its V-TEC (Variable Valve Timing & Lift Electronic Control) to maintain optimum torque throughout the engines range, keeping the mechanic in mind redesigned and repositioned parts for better performance and ease of maintenance, and applying its Intelligent Shift and Throttle (iST) for easy maneuvering and multi-engine operations, the Honda BF250 is a smart, reliable option for a large outboard.

• Engine Type: 4-stroke, V6
• Max Output: 250 HP
• Mounting Type: Standard Transom

Where to buy Yamaha F70:

Yamaha Marine’s reputation for mid-sized and large outboard motors is proven throughout the industry.  They are lightweight, have easy access for maintenance, and their performance is reliable.

The new F70 engine is the lightest 70 horsepower–including 2-stroke alternatives.

• Engine Type: 4-stroke, in-line 4-cylinder
• Max Output: 70 HP
• Mounting Type: Rubber Mounts
• Weight: 253 lbs to 257 lbs (shaft dependent)

Suzuki DF350A

Where to buy Suzuki DF350A:

You can appreciate Suzuki DF350 for its focus on improving its engine performance when stacked up against the competitors in its weight class. For those not needing all the bells and whistles of computer integration in their outboards, but a reliable engine at a reasonable price , the DF350A can be put on your shortlist.

• Engine Type: 4-stroke V6
• Max Output: 350 HP
• Steering: Remote
• Mounting Type: Shear Mount
• Weight: 727 lbs to 747 lbs (shaft length dependent

Mercury 9.9HP

Where to buy Mercury 9.9HP:

It should be noted that Mercury Marine is a branch of the Brunswick Corporation that partners with Tohatsu to manufacture outboard engines. Most small-sized Mercury outboards are rebranded Tohatsu engines, like the 9.9HP four-stroke. That being said, there are subtle differences that prompt us to review the Merc over the Tohatsu. Either engine is a great portable with enough oomph to propel your dinghy adventures.

Types of outboards

The most common types of outboards seen on boats today are gasoline-powered internal combustion engines :

Internal Combustion Engines

Two strokes and four strokes

Two-stroke engines complete all cycles of engine operation—air and fuel intake, ignition or power, and exhaust in two strokes or revolutions of the engine pistons.

Four-stroke engines complete all of the steps of engine operation in four separate revolutions of the pistons.

Some benefits of a two-stroke are that it is simpler in design, and therefore a lighter, easier engine to maintain. The power stage occurs each cycle offering greater thrust in a smaller package than its four-stroke counterparts. The fuel efficiency, however, is greatly decreased and its emissions are increased by its gasoline-lubrication oil mixture, making it less environmentally friendly.

In fact, when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established in the US, policies regulating the emissions of engines were implemented and many manufacturers ceased making two-stroke outboards altogether. Some manufacturers recognized the desire for the lighter weight and higher horsepower demand. So they endeavored to use the same two-stroke technology in the same light package, but with emissions within the specs of the EPA requirements.

Four strokes, while having a more complicated, heavier design owing to more moving parts, are as a whole, more fuel-efficient, quieter, and more eco-friendly. With the growing demand for lower carbon emissions, technology has improved to provide those options in a more compact unit. Truthfully, if you’re willing to read the manual and take the time to look at your engine, the maintenance on a four-stroke engine is quite achievable.

Electric outboards

With increasing awareness about the effects of fossil fuel-powered products on the environment, coupled with the advancing technologies for electricity, solar power, and batteries, recent years have seen a greater demand for electric outboards.

Small/Portable

Horsepower Range: 2.3HP to 20HP

These little outboards are the ideal option as a primary means for propelling your dinghy , kayak, Jon boat , or even small sailboats.  The smaller HP options make great secondary or trolling motors for the fishing folk among you. They are pretty lightweight, making them easy to lift and stow. Some of the best options are as follows:

Choosing an Outboard

So you’re buying your first outboard, congrats!

There’s a lot of information and even more opinions out there on the best brand, size, and horsepower.

So, before you pull out your hard-earned money and give it to an outboard dealer, addressing the following topics for yourself will help narrow down your search and find the right outboard that suits your needs.

Intended Use:

One of the first determining factors to consider before purchasing your outboard is the vessel’s intended use. Are you using it on weekend fishing trips? Does it need to be capable of covering a lot of distance? Perhaps it will be used on a utility boat. Will it be used in freshwater or salt? Will it remain on your boat’s transom or does it regularly need to be removed and stored? Will it be required to move a lot of gear?

For cruisers, that includes cabin cruisers as well as some bow riders , efficiency and noise might be relevant.

Size and Weight:

This one seems obvious, but it bears examination. How much real estate does your boat transom actually have and what size engine or engines can you fit on it? If you desire more than one engine, which options have the best integrations for multi-engine controls? Will it require an outboard with the longer shaft option or a shorter one?

Center console boats operating in bigger surf need to consider this point. Take a look at the Boston Whaler boats–mostly equipped with Mercury engines–to see the profile for motor and purpose.

For portables: how much can you reasonably lift for engine transport and installation mechanically unassisted?

How Much Horsepower? 

While it is tempting to want to purchase the sleekest looking engine with the greatest horsepower, many boats will have a maximum horsepower safety rating. It is important to know this number when shopping as it is dangerous to exceed the vessel’s designed horsepower, and most dealers won’t knowingly sell you an engine that does.

Conversely, it’s important not to aim too small when choosing your engine’s horsepower compared to your boat’s maximum rating so you don’t lose efficiency.

Budget: What is your maximum budget? Taking into account the answers to the above categories, make a list of the outboards which provide the most value and are within your maximum budget.

Common outboard terminology 

Below are a couple of definitions to have an understanding of before making your outboard purchase. Knowing the details of an outboard’s specs and how they benefit you with how you intend to use your engine, will only aid you in making the best selection.

Gear Ratio : gear ratio is the number of crankshaft turns in relation to the number of prop shaft rotations. If an engine has a gear ratio of 2:1, it means that for every 2 rotations of the engine, the propeller turns one time. A 1:1 gear ratio means the prop shaft turns each time the engine does. While it might seem like you would want the prop to turn each time the engine crankshaft does, engines require reduction gear to maximize the torque and the efficiency of propellers based on their pitch and diameter.

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) : a batteryless method of injecting the appropriate fuel-air mixture directly into the piston chamber for ignition by the spark plug. This method of fuel injection increases the engine’s overall performance, reduces fuel consumption, and eliminates the need for a carburetor, which can get clogged and dirty.

Carbureted Engine: An engine that uses a carburetor to inject the proper mixture of fuel and air into the engine cylinders. While most newer engines have incorporated EFI, some traditionalists still prefer a carbureted engine for its easy troubleshooting and maintenance over a computer system.

Engine Displacement: this refers to the swept volume of the cylinders of an engine, usually measured in liters. Engine displacement is related to the amount of torque and horsepower an engine is capable of, as well it’s fuel economy. Larger engine displacement=more power (but also higher fuel consumption).

Taking care of the machine: Basic Outboard Maintenance

Regardless of what brand-name manufacturer you choose, the life expectancy of any internal combustion engine will greatly rely upon the quality and timeliness of its routine maintenance.

Take care before initial break-in and subsequent normal use to read the provided manual, and layout your engine’s maintenance schedule.

Some consumable items which should always be kept on hand are oil filters, manufacturer-recommended oil,  appropriately sized spark plugs, and fuel filters.

Some routine maintenance items which should be checked before they become a problem

Oil: Check the oil dipstick ideally every time the engine is run.  Look for changes in oil color, adequate oil level, and metal shavings or debris in the oil.

This is good practice, especially after an engine break-in period as gears and pistons straight from the factory will lose tiny metal particles from the friction created from running for the first time. These particles, if left in the oil can reduce the engine’s service life,

If the manufacturer suggests changing the oil every 100 hours, it may pay in the long term to halve that interval for the first oil change.

When changing the oil, precautions should be taken to avoid spilling oil into the environment.

Some tools to make this process easy and clean are a manual vacuum pump:

Or if working with a portable engine, remove the engine from the transom and place it on a service rack.

Ensure you have an appropriate container to catch the old oil as it drains as well as some petroleum product diapers and rags handy should you have an accidental spill.

Remove the oil drain plug on the side of the engine (see engine manual), just above the engine’s lower unit. Once removed, the engine oil will start to drain out into your waste oil container.

Once the oil is completely drained, replace the plug and tighten. Make sure to recycle your old oil at an appropriate facility. Most auto body shops provide this service.

With the plug securely in place, open the oil fill cap and place a funnel in the opening. Using a grade of lubrication oil recommended by the manufacturer, slowly fill the engine with oil. Do not exceed the capacity indicated in the manual.

Spark plugs:  The spark plug(s) is a common item that ought to be inspected and replaced at regular intervals. These little cylindrical pieces provide the tiny spark which ignites the fuel-air mixture during the ignition/power cycle of two and four-stroke engines.

There is one spark plug for each cylinder in a given engine. They are relatively inexpensive and it’s always good to have extras.

Over time, the plug can develop carbon build-up which can prevent the plug from sparking and the fuel from igniting. It’s one of the first places to look when troubleshooting “failure to start” and acceleration issues.

The picture below shows what the carbon build-up on a spark plug looks like with the plug removed from the engine.

In this case, just a small wire brush to clean the carbon was required to get the spark plug clean and the engine running again.

Gap distance: each engine has a specific distance between the ground electrode and the center required for proper ignition. If this distance is off, the power cycle will not function properly. Use a gap tool, feeler gauge, or caliper gauge to measure the distance and compare it to the manufacturer’s requirements.

In the case that the spark plug has worn and the gap distance has increased beyond the manufacturer’s ignition system specs, you can adjust the gap by gently bending the ground electrode (curved metal arm) to the required distance.

Spark plugs should be inspected every six months and replaced annually.

Flushing the Engine:

Saltwater can do a number on metal components and engine parts. And since most of the outboards listed above are water-cooled, if you operate your boat on the ocean, saltwater is run through that cooling system, inviting corrosion to start.

To prolong your engine’s service life, it is good to flush it with fresh water after each use in saltwater ideally, or before the boat will be taken out of service for an extended period.

Couplings to conduct a fresh-water flush can be purchased:

• West Marine

Just mount your engine on an outboard service rack such as these:

…Or leave it on the boat on a trailer out of the water.

Attach the flush coupling to the water intake on the engine’s lower unit.

Connect a garden hose to the coupling and turn it on.

Start the engine and let it run for several minutes, flushing the freshwater through its intake and internal components. Your engine will thank you!

Fuel maintenance: a gasoline engine will only run well if it is fed well. An often overlooked factor of engine maintenance is taking care of the fuel you put in your outboard. It’s easy to forget to treat your gasoline with a stabilizer when filling up, and if not used in a timely manner, the fuel can degrade and the engine will not function, or it will run rough.

If you’re able to, mix 50% or more fresh gasoline with the old gasoline to run your engine and use up the old gasoline.

Electrolysis: another factor that becomes an overlooked maintenance item is electrolysis. Electrolysis “refers to the passage of electricity through an electrolyte” ( Calder, 486 ). It can occur when two dissimilar metals are immersed and the current is passed through the metals leading to the transfer of electrons from the “less noble” metal to the “more noble” metal. The result is the corrosion of the less noble metal.

To combat this effect, manufacturers outfit their engines with a “less noble” metal attachments, usually made of zinc, as a “sacrificial anode.” As electrolysis occurs, the zinc corrodes, rather than the important components of your outboard engine, like your propeller and prop shaft .

In the picture above, you can see the early stages of corrosion on the zinc/sacrificial anode located above the propeller on an outboard motor.

For the sacrificial anodes to work, they need to have contact with naked metal. There must be no paint separating contact between the zinc and the metal surface.

These zincs should be changed for new ones when the corrosion has gotten to an advanced stage.

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Continue reading

Brabus x Awake Shadow Jetboard

Newport Vessels Dinghy

Pyle PLMRB29W

Attwood Softside 3-Pack

Gallery of outboard motors review.

Two Outboard Motors on a RIB before launch.

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Best Outboard Motor Brands for Your Boat

14th jul 2023 by lenny rudow.

Which is the best outboard motor brand? Ask that question at your local marina and you’d better be ready for some serious fireworks—everyone has their opinions on this topic, and they tend to be strong opinions. Truth be told, however, in this day and age on the whole it’s tough to go wrong with any of the major outboard engine brands. Years ago many outboards were dirty, smelly, finicky, and unreliable, but modern four-stroke engine technology has made them far more pleasant to run and vastly more dependable.

Of course, four-stroke gasoline engines aren’t the only type of outboard on the market today. And that begs the question, which is the best outboard motor for the money? For most of us it will be that four-stroke, but there are some exceptions. And while most people tend to paint outboard motor brands with a broad brush, there are plenty of examples of specific models, horsepower ranges, or platforms where one manufacturer in particular shines the brightest. 

Types of Outboard Motors

At the most basic level, an outboard engine is any boat motor that can be clamped or bolted onto the transom of a boat to provide propulsion. Most will have a powerhead under a cowl at the top, a midsection where the motor attaches to the boat and that contains a driveshaft running to the lower unit, and a lower section where gears transfer power from the shaft to the propeller. But, as we’ll soon see, there are some exceptions.

Four-stroke gasoline outboard engines

With the retirement of Evinrude, the last manufacturer focused on two-stroke gasoline outboard engines, the vast majority of the gasoline-fueled outboards on the water today are four-strokes. The smallest you’ll commonly see in today’s market are single-cylinder 2.3- to 2.5-horsepower models, and they range all the way up to massive V-12 600-hp models. 

Modern four-strokes dominate the market for two very simple reasons: they’re a pleasure to run, and they’re shockingly reliable. Noise and vibration levels are a fraction of what many boaters were accustomed to compared to historic two-strokes. In many cases, they’re so smooth and quiet you don’t even realize the four-stroke is running until you shift it into gear. That makes the boating experience a lot more pleasurable. But what’s even better is knowing that when you turn the key, the engine is going to start. Decades ago, outboards were notoriously unreliable, but today they rival most modern automobiles. Ask a marine industry professional “What is the best outboard motor?” and many would simply answer “a four-stroke,” rather than calling out any one specific brand.

Photo credit: Mercury Marine

Electric outboard engines

Just a few years ago, electric outboards would have been relegated to the bottom of this list, as only a few makes and models were available and it was generally left up to the buyer to figure out how to power them with off-the-shelf batteries. Today, however, it’s a different story. Modern electric outboards are available from under one horsepower all the way up to 300-hp with one manufacturer, Evoy, planning to introduce a 400-hp model in 2024. 

Critically, electric outboard manufacturers have begun to offer complete power packages including the highly specialized batteries needed along with the motor itself. In some cases the batteries clip directly on top of the motor’s midsection and the unit looks so similar to a gasoline outboard that it’s tough to tell the difference—other than the complete absence of the sounds, vibrations, and exhaust of internal combustion. And in others, big battery packs are integrated into the boat. Either way, the consumer gets a complete package that’s purpose-designed and ready for use.

Diesel outboard engines

There are only a handful of diesel outboard manufacturers, ranging from 150- to 300-hp. Diesel outboards tend to be quite large and heavy, so they aren’t ideal for most applications. However, the fact that they run on diesel as opposed to gasoline makes them an attractive option for yacht tenders, since they can be refueled by the yacht itself without having to carry more volatile gasoline aboard. For the same reason, diesel outboards are sometimes used by the military. Diesels also tend to offer more range per gallon of fuel, making them an attractive option for some commercial fleets, and in some cases, they can replace inboard engines where previously outboards weren’t an option. (See Outboard Vs Inboard: Which Engine is Best for You , to learn why you might prefer one over the other).

Propane outboard engines

Propane outboards grew quickly in popularity about a decade ago, but quickly crashed when many made by the largest manufacturer (which is today out of business) turned out to be plagued by substandard parts and poor reliability. Better models survived, however, and today there are two 5-hp propane outboards (made by Mercury and Tohatsu) on the market. Many people like them for their quiet, fume-free operation and the ability to fuel them with a convenient propane canister.

Most Powerful Outboard Motor Brands

Mercury Marine undisputedly builds the most powerful outboard engine being manufactured today. Their 600-hp Verado is the world’s first V-12 outboard engine, producing a full 100 horses more than the next closest option. This engine is a 1,260-pound beast, displaces a whopping 7.6 liters, and is available in shaft lengths to 35 inches. 

The V-12 Verado has a lot more to it than sheer power. It’s also the first outboard with a two-speed transmission, which shifts so smoothly it’s more or less imperceptible. And in another first, the engine boasts a steerable gearcase. Turn the steering wheel and the cowl remains static, while the lower unit swivels and turns. Additional highlights include twin contra-rotating propellers, integrated electro-hydraulic steering, and a top hatch that allows maintenance access without having to remove the cowl.

Next in line in the power parade is another Mercury, the 500R from Mercury Racing. To create it, Mercury Racing took Mercury’s 4.6-liter V-8 platform, added a supercharger, and then increased supercharger boost while also upgrading some components to accommodate for the additional stresses. Weighing only 720 pounds, it sets a new bar for power density.

The third heavyweight contender is the Yamaha F450. This engine was recently upgraded from the F425 after Yamaha improved exhaust and intake flow, and tweaked the cams and valves. The F450 is the only direct-injection four-stroke outboard in existence, which means that fuel hits 2900 psi at the injection nozzle and is atomized for more complete burning. The F450 also has a unique phased-angle-control charging system which puts out a rather shocking 96 amps at idle. The output is “stackable,” so multiple engine rigs derive the entire benefit of each engine’s charging capacity. That means a twin-engine setup can put out so much juice it’s possible to eliminate the need for a generator to power large energy-sucking appliances like gyroscopic stabilizers and air-conditioning systems.

Photo credit: Yamaha Motor

Best Small Outboard Motor Brands

In the small engine department, Suzuki Marine definitely warrants a call-out. With the DF15A and DF20A, Suzuki created the world’s first battery-less EFI outboards. EFI not only delivers better fuel economy and easy one-tug starting, but by eliminating the carburetor and closing the fuel system, it also turns most ethanol problems into ancient history. Considering how troublesome ethanol proved to be with small carbureted engines, this was a major milestone. Since its initial introduction Suzuki has brought battery-less EFI down to its 9.9-hp model and up through the powerband to eliminate carburetors on all of its outboards above that mark. 

Additionally, many of Suzuki’s small outboards boast features like offset crankshafts, oil-bathed timing chains, and “troll mode” systems that allow the fine-tuning of RPM to increments of 50 rpm. While many manufacturers invest all of their time, energy, and tech into developing larger (and thus more profitable) powerplants, Suzuki has proved a leader in the best small outboard motor department.

Best Electric Outboard Motor Brands

A lot of electric outboard manufacturer startups have appeared recently, and many of these motors simply don’t have enough time under the belt yet to prove their longevity nor their ability to survive in the marketplace. So at this point in time, it would be dicey to try to claim which is the best electric outboard motor on the water today. 

Torqeedo electric outboards have been around much longer than most. Their lineup of one- to 80-hp outboards has certainly done better than any others on the market, and they’ve proven themselves reliable over the long term. Torqeedo also has integrated battery systems ranging from 500 Wh clip-ons, to a next-generation 79.2 kWh lithium iron phosphate powerhouse that’s rated for 4,000 cycles and is backed by a 10-year capacity warranty. As to whether or when one of the newcomers may unseat Torqeedo from the best electric outboard motor throne, we can’t say.

Evoy also gets a mention here, since they’re building an entirely different class of motor with 120- and 300-hp ratings. The same goes for Vision Marine, which is building a 180-hp powertrain fueled by a 70 kWh power bank. Time will tell how these do in the real world, but we note that Four Winns thought enough of the Vision system to team up with the company and build the H2e, an all-electric bowrider model.

Finally, we need to point out that by the time you read these words there’s a good chance a new electric outboard builder has popped up, and/or that one of the major companies has new offerings to consider. Yamaha now has its Harmo electric package (being sold to boatbuilders as opposed on the open market) and just this year Mercury introduced its first Avator model, a 3.5-hp electric with a drop-in battery that Mercury says is just the first of many electric models to come.

Top Outboard Motor Brands

The number of outboard motor manufacturers is really quite small considering how many outboard engines get sold every year, and the top three hold the lion’s share of the marketplace. Listed in alphabetical order they include:

Mercury Marine

Mercury is one of the largest manufacturers in existence, and you’ve already seen the name pop up as the builder of the top two most powerful outboard engines. In business since 1939, Mercury is based in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, has manufacturing locations worldwide, and is owned by the Brunswick Corporation.

Suzuki Marine

By volume, Suzuki marine is the smallest of these top three, but has been gaining market share for many years. With a reputation for excellent reliability throughout their lineup from the smallest engine to their largest, Suzuki has won nine National Marine Manufacturers Association Innovation Awards.

Yamaha Outboards

In production since 1960, Yamaha outboards are known for reliability especially in their epically popular V-6 4.2-liter platform. The company has also proved a pioneer in developing complete power and control systems, as opposed to just engines, with products like their Helm Master joystick.

Written By: Lenny Rudow

With over three decades of experience in marine journalism, Lenny Rudow has contributed to dozens of boating and fishing publications and websites. Rudow lives in Annapolis, Maryland, and is currently 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.

More from: Lenny Rudow

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10 Best Outboard Motor Brands Compared [Video]

Based on our research, the 10 best outboard motor brands in the marketplace are as follows:

If you want to find out more about these companies and their products, you’ve come to the right place.

We at PowerSportsGuide have compiled all you need to know under one roof!

10 Best Outboard Brands Compared

1. mercury outboards.

Many boaters agree that Mercury Marine is one of the best outboard motor manufacturers, and with good reason.

The Massachusetts-based company offers high-quality motors with an engine power of 2.5-600 HP. What’s more, this brand has by far the largest fleet of outboards designed for many different purposes.

In a nutshell, the key categories of Mercury outboards are as follows:

• FourStroke (Standard 4-stroke motors)
• Pro XS (Professional-level performance)
• Verado (Supercharged)
• SeaPro (Heavy-duty components)
• Jet (25-80 HP)

These popular products are commonly used by business owners, governments, and countless individual buyers in and outside the US.

Another key advantage of this manufacturer is an extensive dealer network that covers the entire US.

It’s a fun fact that Mercury entered the snowmobile market in the late ‘60s!

2. Yamaha Outboards

Besides Mercury, another big player in the outboard industry is Yamaha .

The Japanese company is well known for its powersport vehicles such as motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, snowmobiles, and WaveRunners.

Yamaha offers 4-stroke outboards with an engine power of 2.5-450 HP , including jet outboards with 40-150 HP engines.

What’s more, the manufacturer entered the electric boat motor market with a special propulsion system labeled Harmo.

Just like its main competitor, Yamaha’s dealer network literally covers the entire US and many other countries worldwide.

Thanks to this availability and their outstanding durability, Yamaha products stand out in the crowd.

3. Suzuki Outboards

Suzuki outboards are known for their reliability and affordable price tags.

The engine power of these motors ranges from 2.5 up to 350 HP, and two 350 models come standard with a dual-prop drive .

Generally, Suzuki outboard motors are noticeably cheaper than competitor models made by other members of the “Big Five” (Mercury, Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki, Tohatsu).

4. Honda Outboards

Honda Marine markets outboard motors with 2.3-250 HP engines, including jet outboard motors from 40-105 HP.

The Japanese manufacturer produces prop-drive outboards with 2.3-250 HP power heads, as well as jet outboards with 40-105 HP engines.

Although the brand has many fans nationwide, it’s at a competitive disadvantage due to its small dealer network and narrow product range.

As an example, the most powerful Honda outboard produces 250 HP while competitor brands offer motors with 300-600 HP depending on the brand. (Most powerful models: Mercury – 600 HP, Yamaha – 450 HP, Suzuki – 350 HP.)

Because of these disadvantages, customers often turn to rival brands, especially Mercury and Yamaha.

5. Tohatsu Outboards

Although the Tohatsu Corporation is often referred to as one of the “Big Five” outboard manufacturers, it has a significantly smaller market share than its rivals.

The company offers prop-drive outboards ranging from 2.5 to 250 HP and jet outboards with 25-40 HP engines.

What’s more, the fleet includes a portable LPG outboard with a 5 HP power head.

6. OXE Outboards

OXE Marine is a Scandinavian outboard manufacturer that entered the market in 2014.

The company designs and produces diesel outboards with commercial users in mind.

Compared to standard outboards, OXE motors come with heavy-duty components and a diesel power head, which ensures outstanding durability and low running costs.

The latest model in the OXE lineup is the innovative OXE Hybrid 450, claimed to be the first diesel-electric hybrid outboard ever built.

Besides their hefty price tags, OXE outboards are known for their heavy weights and narrow dealer network.

7. COX Outboards

COX Marine is a smaller British startup established in 2007.

The company’s main goal is no less than to revolutionize the outboard motor market with the help of digitalization.

COX develops and manufactures efficient and durable diesel outboard engines. Powered by a 300 HP powerhead, the COX300 is the most powerful turbo-diesel outboard motor in the marketplace.

8. Torqeedo Outboards

Torqeedo is arguably the largest outboard motor manufacturer and has been on the market since 2005.

The German company offers electric outboards with 1-80 HP engines, electric inboard boat motors, pod drives, batteries, accessories, and more.

9. Minn Kota Outboards

Minn Kota produces a great line of electric trolling motors, producing about 1.5-2 HP.

These outboards are primarily designed for trolling, but they also do a good job of pushing tiny vessels.

The Minnesota-based company was established in 1934 and quickly became the biggest player in the trolling outboard marketplace.

10. MotorGuide Outboards

MotorGuide is another well-known electric outboard motor manufacturer, offering many great trolling motors for fresh and saltwater environments.

It’s good to know that the products of MotorGuide are exclusively manufactured in the US.

This company belongs to the Brunswick Corporation, which also owns many reputable boating brands, including Bayliner, Sea Ray, Boston Whaler, Mercury Marine, Lund, Lowe, and many more.

Conclusion – Which Outboard Brand is The Best?

Which outboard brand is the best? We get this question frequently and the answer is it depends.

If you are looking for a gas-powered outboard, the best brands are arguably Mercury and Yamaha.

These companies have the largest lineups and the widest deal networks. So, it is no surprise that these manufacturers dominate the outboard market in the US.

Suzuki, Honda, and Tohatsu are also known for their high-quality and reliable motors, but they have smaller product ranges and far fewer dealers in the states.

Compared to the “Big Five”, OXE and COX are relatively new players in the field. These boutique manufacturers offer innovative, fuel-efficient diesel outboards.

When it comes to electric outboard manufacturers, the most reputable companies are Torqeedo, Minn Kota, and MotorGuide.

References:

www.boattrader.com

uk.boats.com

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