Top Used Boat Brands: Navigating Quality and Value

Navigating the market for used boats can be a rewarding journey, especially when considering the brands known for durability and quality. Brands like Boston Whaler, Sea Ray, and Grady-White have consistently ranked high for their reliable construction and performance on the water. Additionally, Lund and Ranger are often praised for their excellent craftsmanship and longevity, making them popular choices among boating enthusiasts. To explore a comprehensive list of the best brands for used boats, continue reading below.

Illustration of used boat

Best brands of used boat in 2025

Boston Whaler

Boston Whaler, founded in 1958, is renowned for its unsinkable and durable boats, earning it the nickname "The Unsinkable Legend." The company's innovative foam-filled, twin-sponson hull design has set a standard for safety and reliability in the boating industry. Over 60 years, Boston Whaler has expanded its product line to include models for fishing, cruising, and water sports, with a commitment to quality craftsmanship and advanced design. Owned by Brunswick Corporation since 1996, Boston Whaler continues to innovate, introducing new models like the 420 Outrage and expanding its manufacturing facilities to meet high demand. Its boats are known for their superior stability, dry ride, and long-lasting durability. For more information, visit their official website.

Grady-White

Grady-White, founded in 1959, is a renowned leader in the production of high-quality fishing and leisure boats, with a legacy of excellence spanning over six decades. The company, now run by the Smith family since 1968, has consistently innovated, introducing its first fiberglass boats in 1969 and expanding its production facilities in Greenville, North Carolina, by 21,000 square meters in 2018. Grady-White boasts 27 models in production, ranging from 5 to 14 meters, across five lines: Center Console, Coastal Explorer, Dual Console, Express Cabin, and Walkaround Cabin. The brand has received numerous accolades, including 19 consecutive awards for excellence in customer satisfaction, and its flagship model, the Canyon 456, is recognized for its exceptional performance and ride quality. Grady-White's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has earned it a loyal customer base and a strong resale value for its boats.

Sea Ray

Sea Ray is a paramount player in the pre-owned boat market, with a significant presence globally. In 2018, professional yacht brokers recorded 2,869 Sea Rays sold worldwide, although this marked a 14% drop from 2017 and an 18% decline from 2016. Despite these fluctuations, Sea Ray remains the leader in the number of vessels sold on the brokerage market. The brand's popularity is evident from its peak production years before the 2008 recession, when it sold over 25,000 new boats annually. For those looking to sell or buy, late-model, well-maintained Sea Rays typically last an average of 7.6 months on the market before being sold.

Bayliner

Bayliner is renowned as one of the leading manufacturers of deck boats, offering a variety of models that cater to different needs and preferences. Known for their uniquely smooth hull design, Bayliner boats provide less sway, less chop, and less bow rise, enhancing the boating experience. In the context of the used boat market, Bayliner models remain popular, with pre-owned boat sales, such as those from Bayliner, accounting for 78.2% of all boat sales in 2023. The brand's reputation and customer satisfaction contribute to its strong presence in the market, where first-time boat buyers, who made up 37% of pre-owned boat sales in recent years, often consider Bayliner models. Bayliner's mid-sized models, like the Bayliner 215 deck boat, are particularly appealing for their balance of performance and future-proofing. For more information, visit the Bayliner deck boat page.

Lund

Lund boats are renowned for their exceptional resale value, driven by their high-quality materials, superior construction, and brand reputation. For instance, a 2015 Lund 1775 Impact Sport model retained 77% of its original value after ten years, depreciating only 23% from $29,725 to $22,900. This longevity and value retention are attributed to features like double-riveted seams, extra-thick aluminum hulls, and comprehensive warranties. Lund's commitment to American manufacturing and innovative design also enhance their resale appeal. These factors make Lund boats highly sought after in the used market. For more detailed insights, visit this comprehensive article on Lund boat resale value.

Chaparral

Chaparral, a brand under Marine Products Corp., has demonstrated significant strength in the boat market, particularly in recent years. In the fourth quarter of 2022, Chaparral and its sister brand Robalo saw a 42% increase in net sales compared to the same quarter in 2021, driven by a 29% increase in unit sales and a 12% rise in the average selling price per boat. This growth contributed to a record fiscal year 2022 with net sales of $381 million, a 28% increase from 2021. The brand's success is also reflected in its higher production efficiency and improved supply chain management, allowing for increased boat shipments to meet dealer demand. Chaparral's models, such as the Chaparral H2O and SunCoast Sportdecks, have been particularly popular among buyers. For more detailed insights, read about Chaparral and Robalo's impressive growth in net sales.

Ranger

Ranger is a leading brand in the bass boat market, known for its high-quality and reliable vessels. Freshwater fishing boats, including those from Ranger, account for 45% of all outboard-powered boats sold, outpacing other categories. Ranger's tournament bass boats remain a core part of their business, with significant success in collegiate tournaments and a growing presence in multi-species and fish-and-ski segments. The brand offers both aluminum and fiberglass boats, catering to different market preferences, and has seen growth in sales over the past few years. Ranger's boats are prized for their performance and durability, making them a top choice for used boat buyers.

Alumacraft

Alumacraft is a renowned brand in the marine industry, celebrated for its innovative and durable aluminum boats, with a history dating back to 1946. The company has produced over 500,000 boats, ranging from 3 to 7 meters in length, and offers 72 current models across 18 lines. Acquired by BRP in 2018, Alumacraft continues to enhance its products with advanced technologies like the 2XB Hull. Their boats are favored for freshwater and saltwater fishing, day cruising, and other boating activities, with models available in various sizes, including the popular Trophy 175 and Competitor 165 Sport. Alumacraft's commitment to quality and innovation makes it a top choice for those seeking reliable used boats. For more detailed information, visit their official page.

MasterCraft

MasterCraft Boat Holdings is a renowned producer of high-quality recreational powerboats, particularly excelling in the performance sport boat category. As of Q3 2024, MasterCraft holds a significant market share of 24.61% in the Ship & Boat Building industry. The company's MasterCraft brand is recognized for its innovation, design, and manufacturing of premium performance sport boats, with a strong international presence in 37 countries. MasterCraft boats are known for their superior quality, performance, and styling, which helps them maintain higher aftermarket resale value compared to competitors. The company's market share and product quality make it a leading choice for those seeking used boats. For more details, you can visit their official investor relations page.

Carolina Skiff

Carolina Skiff is renowned as the nation's number one boat brand in retail sales of fiberglass saltwater outboard boats 14 feet and over, a position it held as of 2016 according to Statistical Surveys, Inc.. With over 30 years of reputation for durability, versatility, and economy, Carolina Skiff offers 27 different models, including popular ones like the 21 LS, 19 LS, and 21 Ultra Elite. Their boats are built with an integrated fiberglass stringer system, ensuring a solid and wood-free hull, and exceed Coast Guard requirements for foam flotation. Carolina Skiff expanded its production facilities by more than 25% to meet increased consumer demand, highlighting its commitment to growth and quality. The company's estimated annual revenue is $7.5 million, with a significant employee growth rate of 21%. For more information, visit the Carolina Skiff website.