There is nothing quite like being out on the open water. With the wind in your hair, the beautiful views, and fun with family and friends. It’s hard to think of a better way to spend the weekend than on a boat. Unfortunately, boats can be incredibly expensive. Between marine insurance, gasoline costs, boat insurance, and the hefty price of a boat, it can be pretty intimidating to make your first boat purchase. Thankfully, there are some good-quality boats that won’t break the bank. Here are some excellent boating options for under $20,000 USD:
1. Bayliner Element E16 – $16,500
The Bayliner Element is the ultimate starter boat for any family. It has a great mix of comfort and power to help the family enjoy every minute of the boating trip. With a 16’2″ length and seating for up to six, the kids and spouse will have a comfortable and safe ride. The Bayliner Element has a hefty amount of storage and a solid 60-horsepower Mercury FourStroke engine.
2. Tracker Grizzly 1860 CC 2019 model – $16,895
The Tracker Grizzly is the perfect boat for fishing enthusiasts. The craft has a rugged look, but is a rock-solid aluminum boat and gives a smooth, dry ride in the water. This is a long fishing boat at 19’2″ and can sport a 90 HP FourStroke engine. Fish in the lake, the river, or the bay while blending in with your surroundings with the beautiful woodland camo pattern.
3. Carolina Skiff 13 JV SS – $10,500
Another beauty for fans of fishing, the Carolina Skiff is a rare fiberglass boat at this low of a price point. The beautifully crafted fiberglass hull will offer a smooth and dry ride for everyone on board. Even at this bargain price, the boat comes with a foredeck, an eight-gallon livewell, a pedestal seat, and 100% composite construction.
4. Sun Tracker Party Barge 18 DLX 2019 model $19,000
Have great fun with your whole family or friends on the Sun Tracker Party Barge 18 DLX. This party barge looks like an awesome living room on the water. The Sun Tracker comes with a 40-horsepower engine, which can be upgraded to 60. The 24″ high-buoyancy pontoons are excellent wave deflectors to keep everyone on board dry. This boat can fit up to 9 people and carry a max of 1750 lbs. With plenty of space to hang out, a great speaker system, and a load of other features, this is the ultimate party boat.
5. Sea Doo Fish Pro – $15,000
The only ‘Personal Watercraft’ on the list, also referred to as a Jet-Ski, this is a great option for those looking for a combination of fishing and speed. This watercraft can seat up to three people and also comes with a fish finder, rod holders, and a specific compartment for a cooler. It also has additional front and rear cargo storage for all your fishing gear or whatever else you need to be stored. This craft has a wisely designed platform that has a lower center of gravity, which offers stability for fishing or sitting. With 130 horsepower, you’ll be able to get to the best fishing spots quickly with the Sea-Doo Fish Pro.
