Runabout Boat Buying: Finding The Best Model For You

Runabouts are among the most popular boats, and for good reason. They are small, lightweight, and affordable, yet powerful enough to zip around a lake or bay. They are also versatile, as they can be used for almost any activity, from fishing to waterskiing.

When it comes to choosing the best runabout boat, there are several factors to consider, including size, price, and purpose. In this article, we will explore some of the top options available, taking into account different budgets and needs, to help you find the perfect runabout for your boating adventures.

Best runabout boats for fishing

Runabouts are small, speedy, and multi-faceted boats perfect for fishing, water sports, or cruising with friends and family. They are usually light and easy to tow, launch, and retrieve. They are also fairly low-maintenance and affordable. However, their small size means they have limited capacity and fuel range, and are not suitable for rough seas or heavy weather.

Boston Whaler

Boston Whaler has a range of centre and dual consoles that fit the bill as both runabouts and fishing boats. They are known for their unsinkable nature due to their fiberglass-foam-fiberglass construction. Even if you chop a Boston Whaler into multiple pieces, each of them will continue to float on the water's surface.

Grady-White

Grady-White has a rock-solid reputation and a long history in the world of fishing boats. They have a selection of dual console and centre console boats that fall into the runabout category. These boats are fully equipped for fishing, with flush-mount fishing rod holders, under-gunwale rod racks, available livewells, integrated fishboxes, and more.

Lowe

Lowe is an aluminium boat builder with a range of models that qualify as runabouts. Their boats are lightweight and easy to trailer, making them popular choices for lake boating.

Stingray 186 CC

The Stingray 186 CC is built for cruising, with comfortable beam-to-beam seating at the stern. The cushions stow away, converting the area into casting decks, and there is still seating for five while rigged for fishing.

Sea-Doo Switch

The Sea-Doo Switch is a pontoon-like boat with a triple-log, moulded polyethylene hull, jet power, motorcycle-style handlebar steering, and ample seating. Its unique design makes it a versatile and thrilling option for fishing and other water activities.

Best luxury runabout boats

While the definition of a "runabout" boat is quite loose, it generally refers to a small, open powerboat, usually with a length of 25 feet or less. That said, some modern runabouts can be as long as 30 feet. These boats are designed for a variety of activities, from watersports to fishing, and are known for their versatility, affordability, and ease of handling.

When it comes to luxury runabout boats, here are some notable options:

Cobalt

Cobalt is known for building high-end luxury boats, and while many of their models fall outside the typical price range and size of runabouts, they do offer several smaller options that qualify. These boats offer luxurious features such as electric-powered folding swim steps, Fresco Chil vinyls that cool interior surfaces, cockpit heaters, and Sof-Trac cushioning cockpit mats.

Crownline

While most of Crownline's models are too large or expensive to be considered runabouts, they do offer a few bowriders that are lower in cost. These boats come with features like flip-down armrests, Wet Sounds stereo systems, full-beam swim platforms, and aft sun loungers. Crownline boats offer a high level of luxury and comfort that puts them in the running as one of the best luxury runabout boats.

Sea Ray

Sea Ray is a well-known builder of runabout boats, and their models are infused with a high level of luxury. Sea Ray runabouts offer features such as plush seating, large swim platforms, freshwater systems, and booming stereos. Their SLX line, in particular, is known for its luxurious amenities.

Four Winns H9 OB

The Four Winns H9 OB offers a smooth ride, luxurious seating, easy handling, and modern conveniences. While it may not be as well-known as some of the other brands, it is a great option for those seeking a luxurious runabout experience.

Stingray 23 OSX

The Stingray 23 OSX combines a high-performance ride with stability and security, along with numerous amenities that maximize convenience. While Stingray is known for its affordability, this particular model offers a more luxurious experience without compromising on performance.

Best runabout boats for the money

Runabouts are small, lightweight boats that are easy to maintain, handle, and afford. They are usually under 25 feet in length and are designed for calmer waters. They are also usually less expensive to purchase and are perfect for a range of activities, from fishing to watersports.

Bayliner

Bayliner boats offer a range of bowriders, deck boats, and center consoles that fall under the runabout category. They are known for their feature-rich outfitting, quality construction, and easy affordability. Bayliner's deck boats also feature a unique M-hull design that boosts stability and smooths out the chop. Their boats range in length from 15'2" to 24'0" and are a great option for those looking for a good balance of features and price.

Lund

Lund's Sport line offers fully-featured aluminum runabouts at very reasonable prices. Their boats are available in both side- and full-console versions and include features such as folding jump seats, gas-assist struts on larger hatches, USB ports, and mobile phone holders. While some of their models can be more expensive, the Sport line delivers a great combination of features and value, making it a good choice for those on a budget.

Stingray

Stingray Boats offers a range of center consoles, deck boats, dual consoles, and sport boats that fall within the typical size and price range of runabouts. Their boats are generally priced below the competition while offering a better fit and finish. As a bonus, Stingray is an environmentally conscious company, using low-styrene resins and recycling over 100,000 pounds of cardboard per year. Their attention to both affordability and sustainability makes them a great choice for those looking for a good value.

Yamaha

Yamaha's jet boats are known for being affordable, fun, safe, capable, and reliable. In particular, the Yamaha AR 220, a 22-foot boat with twin engines and jet drives, offers a sleek helm, ample seating, and storage. With a base MSRP of around $56,000, it is an excellent entry-level option for those looking for a combination of performance and value.

Four Winns

Four Winns offers a range of runabout boats, including the H-series, which provides plenty of seating, storage, and entertainment features. Their boats are known for their spacious interiors, smooth rides, and luxurious finishes. The H-series has a length of 26' 2" and a beam of 8' 5", making it a great choice for those looking for a spacious and feature-rich runabout without breaking the bank.

Best outboard runabout boats

Outboards are taking the runabout market by storm. Modern outboards are quiet, smoke-free, and provide reliable propulsion while freeing up space in the cockpit. Here are some of the best outboard runabout boats on the market:

Larson LX 185 OB

Weighing in at just 1,790 pounds, the Larson LX 185 OB is fun, light, easy to tow, and easy to own. The standard 115-horsepower outboard, from Mercury, Suzuki, or Yamaha, will easily move this boat around. Starting at $36,593, the LX 185 OB is a great way for someone to get into boating with something new rather than used.

Chaparral 21 H2O OB Sport

With retail prices starting at $37K, the Chaparral 21 H2O OB sport is a great entry-level boat. Chaparral builds a lot of different kinds of boats, and the technology, techniques, and materials from its larger boats often trickle down into its smaller models. The 21 H2O OB Sport comes standard with a 150-horsepower Yamaha outboard and a three-blade stainless-steel propeller. One of its most innovative features is the rear sun pad, which conceals a giant storage compartment inside.

Sea Ray SPX 230 OB

By using outboard power and a wide-bow design, Sea Ray has created a versatile runabout that is lightweight yet roomy. With two seating arrangements to choose from, the SPX 230 OB offers ample floor space, plenty of storage, and seating for 13. It also comes with a head compartment that is smartly integrated into the port side cowl to offer more room inside.

Four Winns Horizon 290 OB

The Four Winns Horizon 290 OB gives buyers enough room for a big group while still being fun to drive and sporty-looking. Fitted with twin 250-horsepower Mercury Verado engines, it runs more smoothly than any 500-horsepower single-engine sterndrive. Standout features include the bow area, which has a jump seat to port and a full-length lounge to starboard, lift-up headrests, a cockpit sink, and a walk-through to the full-width swim platform.

Crownline E 295 XS

The Crownline E 295 XS is the newest and largest model in the outboard Eclipse series and is a standout in the runabout market. The boat comes standard with an aluminum hardtop and twin Mercury 200-horsepower outboards with digital throttle joystick controls. It also comes with a number of other features, including color-matched bow and cockpit canvas, a drawer refrigerator in the cockpit, a 36-quart removable cooler in the bow, docking lights, and a head compartment with a real commode.

Best small runabout boat brands

When it comes to small runabout boats, there are several brands that stand out for their performance, features, and value. Here are some of the best small runabout boat brands:

Bayliner

Bayliner is a well-known brand in the runabout boat category. They offer a range of bowriders, deck boats, and centre consoles, with lengths varying from 15'2" to 24'0". Bayliner boats are known for their feature-rich outfitting, quality construction, and affordable pricing. Their unique M-hull design on their deck boats enhances stability and provides a smoother ride.

Lund

Lund offers a range of aluminium runabout boats, including the Sport line, which delivers excellent value for money. Their boats are available in side- and full-console versions and come equipped with features like folding jump seats, gas-assist struts on larger hatches, USB ports, and mobile phone holders.

Stingray Boats

Stingray Boats provides a diverse selection of centre consoles, deck boats, dual consoles, and sport boats, most of which fall within the typical size and pricing parameters of runabout boats. Their boats are known for their competitive pricing and superior fit and finish compared to many other affordable options. Additionally, Stingray is committed to environmental sustainability in their manufacturing processes.

Glastron

The Glastron lineup includes four different bowriders and a deck boat, available with either outboard or stern-drive power. Their boats have sporty designs, ample power, and multi-coloured hull sides. Glastron also offers a range of options for customising the boat's appearance and features.

Sea-Doo

Sea-Doo's Switch line offers a unique take on runabout boats, with a triple-log, moulded polyethylene hull, jet power, and motorcycle-style handlebar steering. Their boats range from 13 to 21 feet in length, providing an exciting and one-of-a-kind experience on the water.

Tahoe

Tahoe's entire lineup, consisting of bowriders and deck boats ranging from 16'5" to 21'1", falls within the small runabout boat category. Their boats come as complete boat-motor-trailer packages and are well-equipped with numerous standard features, minimising the need for costly upgrades.

These brands offer exceptional small runabout boats that deliver a combination of performance, versatility, and value, making them top choices for boaters seeking a fun and enjoyable experience on the water.

Frequently asked questions