10 Most Affordable Bowrider Boats: Price, Specs, and Features
Bowrider boats are a favorite for families, water sports enthusiasts, and casual cruisers alike. Offering versatility, speed, and comfort, they are designed with a unique open bow area where passengers can sit and enjoy the breeze. While some bowriders can be quite expensive, there are affordable options that don’t skimp on quality or performance. In this blog, we’ll explore 10 of the most affordable bowrider boats, breaking down their prices, specifications, and what makes them stand out.
1. Bayliner Element M15
Price: Starting at $16,000
Length: 15′ 2″
Beam: 6′ 7″
Seating Capacity: 5
Engine: 40 HP Mercury Outboard
The Bayliner Element M15 is an entry-level bowrider designed for small families or beginner boaters. Its M-hull design offers improved stability and a smooth ride. This compact yet practical boat has seating for up to 5 people, making it perfect for lakes and calm waters. The 40 HP engine provides sufficient power for cruising and light water sports.
Key Features:
- M-hull design for stability
- Lightweight and easy to tow
- Minimalistic design with straightforward controls
2. Stingray 182SC
Price: Starting at $27,000
Length: 19′ 1″
Beam: 7′ 5″
Seating Capacity: 9
Engine: 90-115 HP Yamaha Outboard
The Stingray 182SC stands out as one of the most affordable bowriders in the 18-foot range. With its compact size yet generous seating capacity, this boat is ideal for family outings or fishing trips. Its durable construction and choice of outboard engine options (ranging from 90 HP to 115 HP) make it versatile for various activities.
Key Features:
- Spacious deck layout with plenty of storage
- Fuel-efficient engine options
- Rear swim platform for easy water access
3. Four Winns Horizon 190
Price: Starting at $34,000
Length: 19′ 0″
Beam: 7′ 11″
Seating Capacity: 9
Engine: 200 HP MerCruiser
The Horizon 190 is a mid-range bowrider that offers more power than some of its more affordable counterparts. With a robust 200 HP MerCruiser engine, this boat is excellent for water sports and provides smooth acceleration and handling. The Four Winns reputation for quality is reflected in this model, offering a solid build and luxurious features.
Key Features:
- Premium upholstery and finish
- Large swim platform and ladder
- Plenty of under-seat storage
4. Chaparral 19 SSi
Price: Starting at $38,000
Length: 19′ 4″
Beam: 7′ 6″
Seating Capacity: 11
Engine: 200 HP Volvo Penta
The Chaparral 19 SSi is one of the most popular entry-level bowriders. It combines solid construction with sporty performance, thanks to its 200 HP engine. With a focus on comfort and functionality, this boat is built for families looking for both excitement and relaxation on the water.
Key Features:
- Extended V-Plane hull for better handling
- Comfortable bucket seats with flip-up bolsters
- Spacious seating layout with cooler storage
5. Yamaha SX190
Price: Starting at $35,000
Length: 19′ 5″
Beam: 8′ 0″
Seating Capacity: 8
Engine: 180 HP Yamaha Marine Jet Engine
The Yamaha SX190 is a jet-powered bowrider offering exhilarating performance and precise control. This boat’s jet drive makes it ideal for shallow waters and reduces the risk of propeller injuries. Yamaha boats are known for their reliability, and the SX190 is no exception, with features designed for a worry-free boating experience.
Key Features:
- Jet propulsion for shallow water cruising
- Large bow seating area
- Dual captain’s chairs with bolsters
6. Tahoe 450 TS
Price: Starting at $24,995
Length: 18′ 5″
Beam: 7′ 7″
Seating Capacity: 8
Engine: 115 HP Mercury FourStroke
The Tahoe 450 TS is a value-packed bowrider that offers a balance of performance and affordability. It’s built with a sleek, sporty design and is perfect for small families or groups of friends looking for a reliable boat for cruising, tubing, or fishing. Its durable construction and easy-to-maintain features make it a great option for first-time boat owners.
Key Features:
- Full-width swim platform
- Walk-through windshield
- Premium interior materials and finish
7. Glastron GT 180
Price: Starting at $27,000
Length: 18′ 0″
Beam: 7′ 5″
Seating Capacity: 7
Engine: 150 HP Mercury Outboard
The Glastron GT 180 is a classic bowrider with a bold design and impressive speed. With its 150 HP engine, it delivers thrilling water sports capabilities. The GT 180 is known for its excellent maneuverability and ease of use, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced boaters.
Key Features:
- Sporty design with high-performance hull
- Rear seating that converts to sun pads
- Premium sound system
8. Starcraft SVX 171 OB
Price: Starting at $28,500
Length: 17′ 8″
Beam: 8′ 6″
Seating Capacity: 10
Engine: 115 HP Yamaha Outboard
The Starcraft SVX 171 OB is an affordable yet versatile bowrider that combines comfort and functionality. Its spacious design can accommodate up to 10 passengers, and the outboard engine provides solid performance for cruising or towing tubes. The SVX series is known for its value, offering plenty of features at an accessible price.
Key Features:
- Large deck space and bow seating
- Excellent stability and ride comfort
- Full-width swim platform
9. Sea Ray SPX 190
Price: Starting at $39,000
Length: 19′ 6″
Beam: 8′ 4″
Seating Capacity: 11
Engine: 200 HP MerCruiser
The Sea Ray SPX 190 is a stylish, high-performance bowrider that delivers a great mix of comfort, performance, and luxury. It’s powered by a 200 HP MerCruiser engine, making it suitable for all types of water sports. The spacious cockpit and innovative storage solutions make this a practical option for families.
Key Features:
- Sleek, modern design with luxury touches
- Deep hull for a smooth ride even in choppy waters
- Convertible rear seating and sun deck
10. Regal 1900 ES
Price: Starting at $39,500
Length: 19′ 10″
Beam: 8′ 3″
Seating Capacity: 9
Engine: 200 HP Volvo Penta
The Regal 1900 ES offers excellent value for its price. With a fast and fuel-efficient hull, this boat provides impressive performance while still being easy to handle. The wide beam ensures a spacious layout, and the boat is designed with plenty of comfortable seating and ample storage.
Key Features:
- FasTrac hull design for increased speed and efficiency
- Ergonomic helm and seating
- Transom walk-through for easy water access
Conclusion
These 10 affordable bowrider boats provide a great entry point for families and individuals looking to enjoy boating without breaking the bank. With options ranging from compact 15-footers to spacious 19-foot models, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re into fishing, cruising, or water sports. When choosing a bowrider, consider factors like seating capacity, engine power, and storage, depending on your intended use.
Happy Boating!
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Read 6 Most Affordable Jet Boats: Performance and Value on a Budget until we meet in the next article.