Bowriders continue to dominate the recreational boating scene — and in 2026, the segment is better than ever. With improved hull designs, smarter storage, efficient outboards, and upgraded tech, bowriders have become the go‑to choice for families, watersports enthusiasts, and day cruisers alike.
Whether you're shopping for fishing‑friendly layouts, wake sports capability, or premium luxury finishes, this guide highlights the best bowriders of 2026 across multiple categories — based on performance, comfort, technology, and overall value.
What Makes a Bowrider Great in 2026?
Modern bowriders in 2026 focus on flexible seating, deeper bows, and efficient outboards.
The 2026 generation of bowriders focuses on:
- Fuel‑efficient outboards with lower noise and better range
- Deeper bows & higher freeboard for safer family boating
- Larger rear swim platforms with watersports integration
- Touchscreen helm controls & digital switching
- Flexible layouts with convertible seating
- Premium audio & lighting packages that make nights on the water more fun
With that in mind, let’s break down our top picks.
Best Overall Bowrider: Sea Ray SPX 230 OB
Best Overall
Sea Ray SPX 230 OB
Length: 23’0” • Power: 200–250 HP Outboard • Price Range: $$$
The SPX 230 OB represents the sweet spot of space, tech, and performance. Its generous cockpit seating, flexible bow cushions, and large swim platform make it ideal for family day cruising.
Highlights
- Spacious U‑shaped cockpit seating
- Optional watersports tower with integrated speakers
- Digital engine monitoring and touchscreen helm options
- Premium upholstery and stitching throughout
- Strong resale value in the used market
Family Day Boat
Comfort & Space
All‑around Performance
Best Performance / Surf
Cobalt R6 Surf
Length: 25’9” • Power: Volvo Forward‑Drive Surf • Price Range: $$$$
If your perfect weekend involves wake surfing, waterskiing, and carving high‑speed turns, the Cobalt R6 Surf is a dream boat. It blends luxury bowrider comfort with high‑end surf tech.
Highlights
- Forward‑drive propulsion for safer surfing behind the boat
- Surf‑focused ballast and wave‑shaping systems
- Deep freeboard and plush interior for rough‑water confidence
- High‑end fit and finish, right down to hardware and stitching
Wake Surfing
Luxury Fit & Finish
Performance Hull
Best Value Bowrider: Bayliner VR5
The Bayliner VR5 delivers a lot of boat in a trailer‑friendly package, perfect for first‑time bowrider owners.
Length: 20’4” • Power: 115–150 HP Outboard • Price Range: $$
Bayliner consistently delivers maximum boat for the money, and the VR5 is no exception. The layout feels bigger than its size, with smart transom seating, good storage, and enough power for tubing and light watersports.
Why It’s a Best Value Pick
- Attractive price point for new boaters entering the market
- Compact size that’s easy to tow and store
- Simple, proven outboard packages that are inexpensive to run
- Family‑friendly cockpit with integrated swim platform
Best Fishing‑Friendly Bowrider: Chaparral 21 SSi OB
The Chaparral 21 SSi OB is a bowrider first, but adds optional fishing features for truly mixed‑use days on the water.
Length: 21’ • Power: 150–200 HP Outboard • Price Range: $$$
For buyers who want bowrider comfort with light fishing capability, the Chaparral 21 SSi OB strikes a rare balance. The outboard configuration keeps the aft deck open, while fishing packages add the hardware anglers need.
Fishing‑Friendly Features
- Available trolling motor mount and wiring
- Rod holders integrated into the gunwales
- Optional livewell without sacrificing bow seating
- Outboard power for easier shallow‑water access and maintenance
Best Saltwater Bowrider: Scout 255 Dorado
The Scout 255 Dorado blends dual‑console versatility with offshore‑ready construction for serious saltwater families.
Length: 25’5” • Power: Single or Twin Outboards • Price Range: $$$$
Saltwater boaters need corrosion‑resistant builds, self‑bailing decks, and rugged hardware — the Scout 255 Dorado checks every box. With its dual‑console layout, the boat doubles as a coastal family cruiser and nearshore fishing platform.
Why Saltwater Owners Love It
- Composite construction with saltwater‑ready hardware
- Hardtop and deep cockpit for protection offshore
- Fishing‑friendly transom with livewell and rod storage
- Comfortable bow seating for cruising and sandbar days
Honorable Mentions for 2026
There are far more strong bowrider options than we can cover in detail. Here are a few additional models worth a close look in 2026:
- Regal LS4 — luxury interiors and sporty handling with upscale styling
- Four Winns H2 OB — modern Euro lines, excellent storage, and a soft ride
- Yamaha 252S — jet‑drive safety, great for families with kids in the water
- Monterey M22 — stylish mid‑size day boat with strong all‑around value
How to Choose the Right Bowrider
Before buying, it’s worth stepping back and considering how you’ll actually use the boat most days.
1. Passenger Capacity
- 18–20 ft: 6–8 passengers, best for small crews on protected water
- 21–23 ft: 8–10 passengers, a great all‑around family size
- 24–27 ft: 10–13 passengers, ideal for big lakes and coastal runs
2. Where You’ll Boat
- Lakes & Rivers: Outboards or jet propulsion both work well
- Coastal Inshore: Deeper‑V hulls and corrosion‑ready hardware are essential
- Big Water: 22+ ft with higher freeboard for comfort and safety
3. Your Primary Activities
- Family Cruising: Prioritize seating layouts, shade, and storage
- Watersports: Look for tow points, towers, ballast, and strong mid‑range power
- Fishing: Choose models with open decks, rod storage, and livewell options
- Entertaining: Premium audio, LED lighting, and flexible cockpit tables matter
Matching the boat to your actual lifestyle is the best way to avoid “wrong‑boat” regrets a season or two down the road.
Ready to Shop Bowriders?
On BoatWinds, you can browse new and used bowriders from dealers and private sellers across the country. Filter by price, length, location, and brand to find the right boat for your 2026 season.
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