New and Used Powerboats for Sale

Main Characteristics of Powerboats

A powerboat—also referred to as a motorboat—is any boat that is propelled by an engine. There are a huge number of styles and types of boats which fall under the title of powerboat, whether it’s a tiny fishing skiff or a large cabin cruiser. These days motorboats far outnumber sailboats on both the sea and inland waters, and setting aside self-propelled boats like kayaks and canoes, make up the lion’s share of the boating market. From fishing boats to watersports boats, long-range trawlers, and luxury motor yachts, powerboats come in all shapes and sizes. 

Types of Powerboats

Bowrider Boats

Bowriders are fast and fun and one of the most popular styles of powerboat on the market. They offer lots of seating in their V-shaped bow, are easy to handle, often are compact enough to be trailered, and are hugely versatile. They can accommodate between six and 10 people for watersports or cruising. Most bowriders are between 17 and 35 feet in length and have either sterndrive or outboard engines. 

RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats)

RIBs have been popular for decades, their robustness and versatility appreciated by recreational users as much as by commercial mariners for heavy duty work. They are characterized by their rigid hull and strong inflatable tubes which can handle even the roughest seas. They range from tiny tender-sized models with a small outboard, to huge luxurious Maxi RIBs complete with cabins and many amenities. 

Center Console Boats

As the name implies, a center console boat has the helm in the middle of the vessel. This creates a wraparound deck which makes them good sport fishing boats. Center consoles are renowned for their speed, and can have between one and four outboard engines to power them to offshore fishing grounds. Size-wise they usually range from around 18 feet to more than 40 feet in length. 

Trawler Boats

Traditionally trawlers were working fishing boats, built to withstand the rough conditions of the open seas with their displacement hulls. Over time, their attributes have been recognized by recreational boaters and today a whole new style of luxury trawler has emerged. Their huge interior spaces make them ideal for living on long term, while their long-range capabilities mean they are popular round-the-world cruisers. 

Cabin Cruiser Boats

Any boat with a cabin that allows for overnight cruising can be categorized as a cabin cruiser, and this covers quite a large spectrum of boats. They will not only have a cabin but usually a head and galley too, allowing for a family to travel further from home. On deck they are comfortable cruisers, with lots of space for lounging and entertaining. 

Watersports Boats

Fast and agile, watersports boats—also known as tow boats—have all the accessories needed for a day of waterskiing, wakeboarding, wake surfing or tubing. They have tow pylons, racks for equipment storage, and are equipped with trim tabs and ballast tanks, allowing them to be activity-specific and offer adjustable wake patterns. Fish-and-ski boats are designed for both activities, making them even more versatile. 

Fishing Boats

Fishing boats make up a huge portion of the recreational powerboat market, and there are many different types of fishing boat to choose from including center consoles, bass boats, bay boats, and skiffs. Whether they’re designed for inland or offshore fishing they’ll have equipment such as livewells to rod holders, swivel seats, and plenty of deck space for reeling in catches. Many also have an electric trolling motor system. 

Motor Yachts

Large motor yachts are defined firstly by their size—usually over 40 feet—as well as their luxuriousness. As a very minimum they will have cabins, galleys, heads, dining areas, and lots of deck space. At the top end of the market very large motor yachts (or superyachts) can be over 300 feet in length, equipped with swimming pools and helicopter pads, and be staffed by a full crew. 

Best Powerboats Brands

With such a huge range of styles of powerboats, it is perhaps no surprise that there are hundreds of brands building ever-more innovative models. There are stalwarts of the industry such as Sea Ray, Boston Whaler, Grady White, Bayliner, and Beneteau, whose powerboats cover everything from robust but small center console fishing boats to luxury cabin cruisers. When it comes to freshwater fishing, boat brands such as Tracker, Lund, Crestliner, and Ranger Boats are highly regarded. For offshore sport fishing brands such as Contender, Invincible, and Viking stand out. And big name brands for cabin cruisers and trawlers include those such as Axopar, Tiara, Crownline, and Grand Banks.

FAQs

Why Choose a Powerboat?

Powerboats are fast, fun, and versatile, allowing you the chance to enjoy an exhilarating ride and take part in activities such as watersports, fishing, cruising, and entertaining friends. The range of powerboats is simply enormous, from the smallest fishing boats to large luxury motor yachts. No doubt, you can find one to suit your needs and budget.