Walkaround Boats for Sale: Your Ultimate Buying Guide
Walkaround boats are versatile and popular among boaters due to their unique design and features. These boats offer a perfect balance between comfort and functionality, making them an ideal choice for those looking to spend time on the water, whether for fishing, cruising, or other activities. With a range of sizes and price points available, finding the right walkaround boat for sale may seem challenging, but it's definitely worth the effort.
The distinguishing characteristic of walkaround boats is their full walkaround deck design, which allows for easy movement around the entire boat. High gunnel walls, wide passageways, and comfortable seating areas contribute to the safety and convenience of these boats. In addition, many walkaround boats come with features such as climate-controlled salons and multiple staterooms, providing comfort for overnight trips or extended cruising.
When searching for walkaround boats for sale, potential buyers can explore various platforms such as Boat Trader, YachtWorld, and boats.com to discover a wide selection of options. These platforms offer listings of new and used boats, ranging in price and size, ensuring a suitable choice for every budget and preference.
Popular Walkaround Boat Brands
Walkaround boats are popular among fishing and boating enthusiasts for their versatile features and comfortable layouts. In this section, we will discuss some of the most renowned walkaround boat brands in the market. These brands are known for their excellent craftsmanship and high-quality boats that appeal to a wide range of customers.
Grady-White
Grady-White is a well-established brand known for its high-quality vessels providing both functionality and comfort. The Grady-White Gulfstream 232 is a popular model, boasting a reputation for durability and reliability among saltwater fishing families.
Pro-Line
Pro-Line is another reputable walkaround boat manufacturer, offering various models catering to different customers' needs. Their boats are designed to ensure maximum safety, efficiency, and convenience while on the water.
Boston Whaler
Boston Whaler is renowned for its superior build quality and innovative designs. The Boston Whaler 405 Conquest is a premium choice, featuring sophisticated amenities and ample space for both fishing and recreational activities.
Wellcraft
Wellcraft is a trusted name in the walkaround boat segment, known for its durability, performance, and style. With a diverse portfolio of models, Wellcraft caters to various tastes and preferences, ensuring a delightful boating experience.
Pursuit
Pursuit boats are celebrated for their exceptional performance, innovative features, and luxurious finishes. This brand offers a range of walkaround boat models perfect for those who prioritize both practicality and style in their maritime adventures.
Sailfish
Sailfish boats focus on versatility, combining the advantages of both walkaround and center-console boat designs. Their models are built to provide optimal comfort, functionality, and reliability while on the water.
Walkaround Boats: Size And Length
Walkaround boats are a popular choice for both fishing and leisure activities, offering a versatile platform that appeals to a wide range of boaters. The size and length of walkaround boats can vary, with models available in different dimensions to suit the needs of various owners and their specific requirements.
According to YachtWorld, over the past 30 days, there have been 83 walkaround boats listed for sale. The average length of these vessels is 29 feet, and they differ in size from 20 feet long for the shortest to 59 feet for the longest listed vessel. This range of sizes caters to both casual boaters and more experienced owners who prefer larger vessels with greater capacity and amenities.
When considering the size of a walkaround boat, it's important to think about factors such as the target waterways, onboard storage, and number of passengers. Smaller boats are generally more affordable and easier to transport and store. They are well-suited for inshore fishing and can be easily launched from ramps for day trips. On the other hand, larger walkaround boats offer more space for liveaboard accommodations, extensive fishing gear, and a higher maximum passenger capacity.
Some popular walkaround boat manufacturers include Grady-White, Sea Ray, and Pursuit, with models ranging from 20 feet to over 40 feet in length. Boats of this type offer a good balance of performance, comfort, and durability. In summary, the size and length of walkaround boats on the market provide options for various preferences and budgets, allowing boaters to find a vessel that best fits their needs.
Styles and Hull Types
Walkaround boats come in various styles and hull types, each offering different advantages and performance characteristics on the water. In this section, we will explore three popular hull types: Deep Vee, Modified Vee, and Sea-V2™.
Deep Vee
A Deep Vee hull is characterized by a sharp deadrise angle, typically >= 20 degrees, which allows the hull to cut through waves more smoothly, providing a comfortable and stable ride in rough waters. This hull design is particularly popular among offshore fishing boats and recreational cruisers.
Some advantages of Deep Vee hulls include:
- Improved ride comfort in rough conditions
- Increased stability at high speeds
- Better handling in rough seas
Modified Vee
Modified Vee hulls are a more versatile design, featuring a deadrise angle that is more gradual compared to Deep Vee hulls. Typically, the deadrise angle ranges between 15 to 19 degrees, offering a good compromise between a comfortable ride in rough waters and improved fuel efficiency at cruising speeds.
Some benefits of Modified Vee hulls include:
- Good balance between ride comfort and fuel efficiency
- Versatile performance across various water conditions
- Wide range of applications from fishing to cruising
Sea-V2™
The Sea-V2™ hull design, developed by Grady-White, features a unique, variable deadrise geometry that transitions from a sharp entry at the bow to a flatter section at the stern. This patented design provides a smooth ride in rough waters while maintaining excellent stability and fuel efficiency at cruising speeds.
Key advantages of the Sea-V2™ hull design include:
- Smooth, comfortable ride across various water conditions
- Superior fuel efficiency compared to traditional deep-V hulls
- Excellent stability at rest and under way
Propulsion Systems
Walkaround boats offer various propulsion systems to suit the needs of different boaters. In this section, we will discuss the main types of propulsion systems available in walkaround boats: Inboard, Outboard, Electric, and Inboard/Outboard.
Inboard
Inboard propulsion systems are situated inside the hull, with the engine usually being mounted near the center of the boat. These systems provide excellent maneuverability, especially in tight spaces. Inboard engines are usually larger and can generate more power than outboard systems, making them suitable for larger walkaround boats.
Outboard
Outboard engines are the most common propulsion system found in walkaround boats. These engines are located on the exterior of the boat's transom and are easy to maintain or replace. Outboard systems offer excellent performance and fuel efficiency, making them a popular choice for smaller to medium-sized walkaround boats. Some examples of walkaround boats with outboard engines can be found on boats.com and Boat Trader.
Electric
Electric propulsion systems are becoming increasingly popular in the boating industry due to their environmentally-friendly nature and quiet operation. While not as common in walkaround boats as inboard or outboard systems, electric propulsion is an option for those interested in a more eco-friendly choice. Electric systems require charging and may have shorter range compared to other propulsion methods, but they provide a great alternative for shorter trips and environmentally-conscious boaters.
Inboard/Outboard
Inboard/Outboard (also known as sterndrive) propulsion systems combine the benefits of both inboard and outboard engines. With this system, the engine is mounted inside the boat but has an outboard drive unit that sits in the water. This design offers better maneuverability and a balance of power and efficiency. Inboard/Outboard systems are found in some walkaround boats and cater to boaters who want a versatile propulsion choice.
Engine Options
When considering walkaround boats for sale, it's important to evaluate the various engine options available. These boats can be powered by different types of engines, offering various levels of horsepower, and running on either gas or diesel fuel. In this section, we will discuss the engine options in terms of horsepower, gas, and diesel engines.
Horsepower
Horsepower is a critical factor when selecting the right engine for a walkaround boat. Engine horsepower can range from smaller, more economical options to powerful, high-performance engines. Smaller walkaround boats may have engines with as little as 100 horsepower, while larger boats may have engines with over 300 horsepower. The amount of horsepower required depends on factors such as boat size, intended use, and the desired top speed.
Gas
Gas engines are a common choice for walkaround boats. They typically have a lower upfront cost compared to diesel engines and are often more readily available. Gas engines can provide sufficient power for most walkaround boats, with models ranging from small outboard engines to more powerful V8 inboard engines. Some popular manufacturers of gas engines for walkaround boats include Yamaha, Mercury, and Volvo Penta.
Diesel
Diesel engines, though less common in walkaround boats, can offer some advantages over gas engines. Diesel engines tend to be more fuel-efficient, which can result in lower long-term operating costs. They are also known for their durability and ability to deliver higher torque at low RPM, making them suitable for boats used for activities such as fishing or prolonged cruising. However, diesel engines often have a higher initial cost and may require more specialized maintenance. Some well-known manufacturers of diesel engines for walkaround boats include Cummins, Yanmar, and Caterpillar.
Fuel Systems
Walkaround boats utilize different kinds of fuel systems for their engines, which can include both outboard-4s and outboard-2s. The chosen fuel system plays a crucial role in engine performance, efficiency, and environmental impact. Let's discuss these two options in more detail.
Outboard-4s
The outboard-4s, or four-stroke outboard engines, are popular among walkaround boat owners due to their excellent fuel efficiency, cleaner emissions, and lower noise levels. These engines operate by completing four distinct strokes, namely intake, compression, power, and exhaust, in two crankshaft revolutions.
Four-stroke outboards offer several advantages, including:
- Fuel efficiency: Due to their efficient combustion process, outboard-4s consume less fuel and generate more torque compared to other engine types.
- Environmentally friendly: These engines produce fewer emissions compared to two-stroke engines, making them more eco-friendly.
- Low noise levels: As outboard-4s have separate strokes for combustion and exhaust, they create significantly less noise and vibration.
Outboard-2s
Outboard-2s, or two-stroke outboard engines, have been the traditional choice for many boat owners. These engines operate by completing all four stages of combustion in just two strokes and one crankshaft revolution. Despite being less fuel-efficient and eco-friendly, outboard-2s still hold a place in the market for certain applications.
Some benefits of outboard-2s are:
- Lightweight: Typically, outboard-2s are lighter than their four-stroke counterparts due to a simpler design with fewer moving parts.
- Easy maintenance: The simple design also translates to lower maintenance requirements and easier repairs.
- Power-to-weight ratio: Two-stroke engines generally provide a higher power-to-weight ratio, making them suitable for performance-oriented boats.
In conclusion, both outboard-4s and outboard-2s have their own sets of advantages and drawbacks. When choosing a fuel system for a walkaround boat, it's essential to consider factors such as fuel efficiency, environmental considerations, engine noise, and maintenance requirements. Making the right choice can improve your boating experience and optimize overall performance.
Walkaround Boats: Logistics
Walkaround boats are versatile vessels designed to cater to a variety of on-water activities. This section focuses on the key logistics aspects of walkaround boats, including seating, table, cockpit, and helm arrangements.
Seating
Seating on walkaround boats is designed to accommodate passengers comfortably, with ample space for relaxation and socializing. Cushioned seats and benches are often available, with some models even featuring fold-away or swivel options that further enhance space utilization. The positioning of seating areas may vary, but they are commonly found around the cockpit and amidships for convenience and ease of access.
Table
For dining and entertainment purposes, walkaround boats often include a functional and sturdy table. These tables can be permanently fixed or portable, depending on the boat's layout and the owner's preferences. Some models even offer tables with adjustable height settings, allowing them to be used as dining surfaces, as well as for lounging or even as additional storage spaces.
Cockpit
The cockpit of a walkaround boat serves as the primary activity area, offering easy access to rod holders, bait wells, and storage compartments for fishing gear, among other essentials. Depending on the size and model, the cockpit may also feature a sink, cutting board, and even a grill to cater to on-board meal preparation. This multifunctional space is generally designed to facilitate both fishing and leisure activities, with non-skid decks and well-planned layouts allowing for seamless movement between work and relaxation areas.
Helm
The helm station on walkaround boats houses the boat's navigational and communication instruments, along with the steering wheel, throttle, and other essential controls. It is designed with ergonomics and functionality in mind, ensuring that the captain has a clear line of sight and easy access to all key systems. Various models may include features such as adjustable helm seats, storage compartments, and electronic controls for state-of-the-art navigation and maneuverability solutions.
Popular Models
Wellcraft 250
The Wellcraft 250 is a popular walkaround boat model that offers a perfect blend of comfort and performance. This model is designed to provide a versatile fishing and cruising experience, while also being suitable for family outings.
Featuring a spacious cockpit, ample storage, and an ergonomic cabin, the Wellcraft 250 allows anglers and passengers to enjoy their time on the water. The boat's hull design and powerful outboard motor options ensure a smooth and efficient ride.
Boston Whaler Boats
Boston Whaler is a renowned manufacturer of walkaround boats, known for their quality, durability, and innovation. Some of their most popular walkaround models include the Conquest and Outrage series. These boats are built to handle various water conditions and are designed for both recreational and serious fishing purposes.
The Conquest series offers spacious cabins, comfortable seating, and smart storage solutions, while the Outrage series is designed for anglers who desire more open space and a center console layout.
Grady-White Boats
Grady-White is another well-respected manufacturer of walkaround boats, with several popular models including the Express, Marlin, and Canyon series. These boats are renowned for their top-notch construction and attention to detail, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for anglers and cruisers alike.
The Express series offers a larger cabin area, perfect for weekend cruising and overnight stays, while the Marlin and Canyon series focus on providing the best fishing features, such as ample rod storage, live wells, and tackle stations. Grady-White boats are powered by reliable outboard motors, ensuring a smooth and efficient ride.
Motors
When considering walkaround boats for sale, it's essential to take into account the various motor options for powering these vessels. In this section, we'll discuss three popular motor brands for walkaround boats: Yamaha, Honda, and Mercury.
Yamaha
Yamaha is well-known for producing highly efficient and reliable outboard motors that are often used on walkaround boats. With a wide range of horsepower options, Yamaha motors can handle various boat sizes and performance requirements. They are built with advanced technology, such as the Command Link Plus system, which provides a seamless integration of engine controls and monitoring features.
Yamaha outboard motors are known for their efficient and quiet performance, making them an excellent choice for walkaround boats used for fishing and leisure activities.
Honda
Honda is another reputable manufacturer of outboard motors, renowned for their reliability and ease of use. They offer a range of four-stroke engines, which are more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly compared to the two-stroke engines. Honda outboard motors feature advanced technology, such as the BLAST (Boosted Low-Speed Torque) system, which improves acceleration and overall performance.
Honda's motors are also equipped with various protective features, including the Oil Alert system, that helps prevent damage due to low oil levels, ensuring a longer motor lifespan.
Mercury
Mercury is a popular choice for walkaround boat owners who prioritize power and performance. They offer a wide selection of outboard motors, including their Verado and SeaPro series, which are specifically designed for commercial and high-power applications.
Mercury motors are known for their impressive power-to-weight ratio and advanced control systems, such as the Active Trim system, which automatically adjusts the motor's trim angle for optimal performance and efficiency.
Each of the motor brands discussed in this section offers unique benefits for walkaround boat owners. When choosing the right motor for your walkaround boat, carefully consider factors such as performance, efficiency, reliability, and compatibility with your vessel.
Horsepower Levels
When considering walkaround boats for sale, it is essential to take into account horsepower levels, as they can significantly impact the boat's performance and suitability for specific purposes. In this section, we will discuss two popular horsepower levels of walkaround boats: 250 hp and 225 hp.
250 Hp
Walkaround boats with a 250 hp engine offer a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency. These boats are capable of achieving impressive speeds and are suitable for various activities, such as fishing, cruising, and water sports. A 250 hp engine ensures the boat can maneuver easily and handle choppy water conditions effectively. Some popular walkaround boat models with 250 horsepower engines include:
- Sea Hunt Gamefish 25
- Cobia 261 CC
- World Cat 255 DC
225 Hp
Walkaround boats equipped with a 225 hp engine offer slightly less power than the 250 hp models but can still provide an enjoyable boating experience. The 225 hp engines offer better fuel efficiency compared to higher horsepower engines while still delivering decent performance. These boats are typically suitable for leisure cruising, light fishing, and various other water activities. Some popular walkaround boat models with 225 horsepower engines include:
- Grady-White Fisherman 216
- Parker 2320 SL Sport Cabin
- Robalo R222
In conclusion, both 250 hp and 225 hp walkaround boats offer compelling features and capabilities for boating enthusiasts. Depending on individual preferences, one can choose between higher horsepower for better performance or lower horsepower for improved fuel efficiency.
Outboard Motor Lines
Walkaround boats offer various outboard motor lines for boating enthusiasts looking for the perfect vessel. One popular choice is the Pro Line series.
Pro Line
The Pro Line Walkaround series offers an array of boats that cater to both leisure boating and fishing adventures. Known for their strong build and ample space, these boats are equipped with numerous storage compartments and fishing gear options, making them ideal for a variety of activities.
Some of the Pro Line Walkaround boats available for sale include the 1999 Pro-Line 2610 Walkaround, a 26-foot boat priced at $39,000, and the 1999 Pro-Line 221 Walkaround, a slightly smaller option at 22-feet and priced at around $19,899. Both models offer a good balance between performance, comfort, and affordability.
Boat owners who have opted for Pro Line's 23-foot Walkaround series appreciate the spacious cabin and deck areas, which provide ample room for fishing or simply enjoying the water on a sunny day. The 2007 Suzuki 250 four-stroke motor that typically powers these boats ensures reliability and adequate power for different boating adventures.
Pricing
When considering the purchase of a walkaround boat, it's essential to consider the price range, which can vary significantly based on the size, brand, and features of the boat. On the more affordable end, walkaround boats can be found for as low as $7,575, while high-end vessels can go up to $1,164,875, according to boats.com.
YachtWorld provides a broader range for walkaround boat pricing, stating that they can start from $9,654 and reach up to $1,946,088. The price variation depends on factors such as the boat's condition, age, and added features and equipment. It's important to note that the listing price of a yacht for sale is not the only cost of ownership to consider, as additional expenses like maintenance, insurance, and storage should also be factored into one's budget.
Some examples of walkaround boats for sale include a 2006 GlassTech 36 available in West Palm Beach, Florida, offered at $545,000, and a 2023 Caymas 28HB with an undisclosed price, as referenced on Boat Trader. Meanwhile, BoatCrazy.com lists boats like a 2014 Pursuit 345 Offshore for $279,000 in Sandusky, OH, and a 2013 Intrepid 38 Evolution for $239,500 in Nokomis, FL.
Differentiating factors like propulsion options, power source, and construction materials can also influence the price of walkaround boats. Therefore, it is essential to research and compare prices thoroughly to find a walkaround boat within one's budget that meets their preferences and requirements.
Location Advantage
When searching for walkaround boats for sale, the location plays a significant role in the variety and pricing of available options. In this section, we will explore the advantages of looking for walkaround boats in the United States and specifically the city of Boston.
USA
The United States offers a vast market for walkaround boats due to its extensive coastline and popularity of recreational boating activities. Buyers in the USA can find a wide range of choices in terms of size, design, and price points. Websites such as Boat Trader, YachtWorld, and boats.com feature numerous walkaround boat listings from different manufacturers and sellers across the country. Additionally, walkaround boats that are listed for sale by owner can also be found on online marketplaces.
Another advantage of searching for walkaround boats within the United States is the accessibility to various boat dealers, which can provide buyers with professional guidance and after-sales support. Dealers also offer financing options, making the purchase process more convenient and flexible.
Boston
Boston is a prime location for those seeking walkaround boats for its rich maritime history and the extensive boating opportunities the city offers. With easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and the numerous bays, inlets, and islands along the coastline, Boston provides an ideal setting for walkaround boats to be truly appreciated and utilized.
The city is also home to several reputable boat dealerships and marinas, which offer a variety of walkaround boats for sale. This not only ensures that buyers have access to quality options but also enables them to benefit from the knowledge and expertise of local professionals.
In conclusion, considering Boston and the United States as a whole when searching for walkaround boats for sale can be advantageous due to the variety, pricing, and accessibility of resources available in these locations.
Boat Usage
Walkaround boats offer versatility and adaptability for a variety of recreational activities. The different ways these vessels can be utilized include freshwater, saltwater fishing, day cruising, and adventure.
Freshwater
Walkaround boats can be employed in freshwater environments such as lakes and rivers. With their deep-V hulls and sturdy construction, they provide a stable and comfortable ride. They can also be used for angling, and their spacious layouts often include live wells, rod holders, and other fishing amenities.
Saltwater Fishing
In saltwater fishing scenarios, walkaround boats provide a large, stable platform for casting lines and reeling in fish. They're equipped with high gunwales for added safety, and ample deck space allows for easy movement while fishing. These boats often come with features like outriggers, bait prep stations, and fish boxes for avid anglers.
Day Cruising
Walkaround boats are also suitable for day cruising outings with family and friends. They provide a comfortable and spacious environment for groups to enjoy. Many models include seating areas, sun pads, and small cabins with basic amenities for a day on the water.
Adventure
The versatile nature of walkaround boats allows them to be used for various adventure activities. Their seaworthiness lets owners venture into open waters or explore coastal regions with confidence. Some popular adventure activities that can be enjoyed on walkaround boats are diving, snorkeling, and island hopping.
Other Considerations
New Vessels
When considering walkaround boats for sale, new vessels offer the advantage of the latest technologies and equipment. They usually come with a warranty and quality assurance, ensuring a hassle-free boating experience. However, new boats tend to be more expensive than used vessels. Make sure to research the brand and model carefully, and compare features and prices to make an informed decision.
Passengers
It's essential to evaluate the capacity of the walkaround boat to accommodate passengers comfortably. Depending on the size of the boat and the intended use, the number of passengers it can carry may vary. Some walkaround boats have spacious seating arrangements and high gunnel walls, providing comfort and safety for passengers, as seen in the Gulf Crosser 66.
Pontoon
Another option to consider when looking for a versatile and spacious boat is a pontoon. Pontoons are perfect for accommodating large groups, featuring a flat deck and multiple seating options. They're a great alternative if your primary focus is entertaining passengers or engaging in watersports. However, pontoon boats might not be as well-suited for offshore fishing as walkaround boats.
In conclusion, consider all factors ― such as vessel type, passenger capacity, and purpose ― before making a decision on the right walkaround boat, as well as exploring alternatives like pontoon boats.