Bluewater Boats: Exploring High-Performance Ocean-Ready Vessels
Bluewater Sportfishing Boats is a renowned manufacturer of high-quality fishing vessels, catering to the needs of both inshore and offshore anglers. Their impressive offerings include various boat models, ranging from inshore "flats" style boats to offshore fishing machines, providing large stable fishing platforms and exceptionally smooth, dry rides for their passengers.
With decades of experience in the industry, Bluewater is committed to designing and building boats that are tailored to withstand the harshest of marine environments. Among their popular models is the Bluewater 2850, a 31-foot center console boat with a wide 9-foot 5-inch beam, designed to offer stability and performance even in rough conditions.
When considering purchasing a Bluewater Sportfishing Boat, interested buyers can explore the various options available on platforms such as Boat Trader and YachtWorld. These sources provide a wide range of new and used Bluewater boats for sale, ensuring that potential owners can find a vessel that meets their fishing and budgetary needs.
Bluewater Boats Overview
Bluewater Sportfishing Boats, Inc. is a United States-based company that has been producing high-quality vessels for both offshore and inshore fishing enthusiasts for many years.
History of Bluewater Boats
The company was founded with the aim to create innovative and top-of-the-line boats that cater to the needs of a diverse range of fishing enthusiasts. Over the years, their boats have gained a reputation for their dependability, performance, and versatility in a variety of fishing environments.
Current Models
Bluewater Sportfishing boats offer a range of new vessels that are designed to cover various fishing needs. Their offshore boats collection is engineered for deep-sea fishing, with the capacity to handle rough waters while providing a safe and comfortable experience for the anglers aboard.
One of the popular offshore models, the Bluewater 2550, is known for its large cockpit area and well-balanced hull design, giving it the fishing and running performance of a 28-foot boat, while maintaining the ease of trailering commonly associated with a 25-foot boat.
For inshore fishing, Bluewater also provides a lineup of "flats" style boats. These inshore models feature a large stable fishing platform and boast a smooth, dry ride.
In summary, Bluewater Sportfishing Boats continues to manufacture innovative, high-quality vessels that cater to both offshore and inshore fishing enthusiasts throughout the United States.
Boat Types and Features
Fishing Boats
Bluewater fishing boats are known for their exceptional performance and reliability. Models like the 2150, 2350, and 2550 offer various sizes and configurations to meet the needs of avid anglers. These boats typically feature a center console design, providing ample space for fishing equipment and maneuverability. Notable features of these fishing boats include large cockpits, ample storage, and powerful engines for high-speed pursuits.
Sportfishing Boats
Sportfishing boats, such as the 2850 model, are designed to serve the needs of serious offshore anglers. These boats are built with a focus on speed, stability, and comfort, making them ideal for long days on the water. With spacious decks, luxurious amenities, and advanced fishing equipment, Bluewater sportfishing boats ensure an unmatched experience out at sea. Key characteristics of these boats include:
- Deep Vee hull designs for optimal stability and handling
- Advanced navigation systems and electronics
- Expansive seating and sunbathing areas
- High-capacity fuel and water tanks for extended trips
Cruisers
Bluewater boats also cater to the day cruising and overnight cruising markets, offering a range of options for leisurely exploration and adventure. These vessels are designed with comfort in mind and often include spacious cabins, comfortable seating, and various entertainment options. Boat hull types for cruisers typically consist of modified vee or displacement designs, ensuring a smooth and safe journey for passengers.
Motor Yachts
Motor yachts offer the ultimate experience in luxury and extravagance for those seeking to explore the open waters. Bluewater's motor yachts are replete with high-end amenities, state-of-the-art technology, and ample space for relaxation and entertainment. Impressive performance capabilities and sophisticated styling make these boats the pinnacle of on-water enjoyment. The combination of planing and displacement hull designs ensures a smooth and efficient ride at various speeds, meeting the diverse needs of motor yacht enthusiasts.
Performance and Handling
Horsepower and Speed
Bluewater boats are designed for long-range cruising and typically focus on stability and comfort rather than pure speed. However, performance-oriented models do exist that offer increased horsepower and speed while maintaining excellent seakeeping abilities. Bluewater cruising powerboats usually have semi-displacement hulls or displacement hulls, which enable them to push through the water effectively at various speeds.
As bluewater boats often have to navigate across vast stretches of open water, efficient motors play a crucial role in performance. The choice of engine will depend on factors such as boat size and intended use. Although they tend not to be as fast as planing hulls, bluewater boats emphasize fuel efficiency and range over speed.
Handling and Stability
When it comes to handling and stability, bluewater boats are built to withstand rough seas and maintain a comfortable motion for the crew during long passages. They generally feature higher freeboard and bows, wide beams, and carefully designed hull shapes to reduce rolling and pitching. This ensures that passengers onboard can experience a safe and comfortable journey even in challenging conditions.
Bluewater sailboats, such as the Contest 50CS and the Oyster 56, often incorporate features like fully balanced rudders, large wheels, and advanced sail plans to improve handling and performance. These design elements allow for efficient sailing and maneuverability even with a smaller crew or for single-handed sailors, as seen in the Dehler 29.
When selecting a bluewater boat, it's essential to consider the balance between speed, stability, and handling to ensure the vessel can meet the specific requirements of long-distance cruising.
Propulsion Systems and Fuel Types
Outboard-4s
Outboard-4s propulsion systems use four-stroke engines, which provide better fuel efficiency and produce less pollution than their two-stroke counterparts. They are popular choices for smaller bluewater boats due to their convenience and ease of maintenance. The fuel systems for outboard-4s are typically gasoline based, as they offer quicker acceleration and higher top speeds compared to diesel alternatives.
Inboard
Inboard propulsion systems are common on larger bluewater boats, providing a more centralized source of power. These engines are typically found within the hull of the boat, providing better balance and space optimization. Inboard engines can run on either gasoline or diesel fuel, each with its own set of advantages and considerations.
Gasoline inboard engines generally have lower initial costs and provide better performance at higher speeds. However, diesel inboard engines offer greater fuel efficiency, making them a more economical choice for long-range cruising.
For example, the Amel 64 has an inboard diesel engine - a 160 hp Steyr engine that provides power from the center of the boat.
Outboard
Outboard propulsion systems are the most popular choice for bluewater boats, as they offer versatility and ease of maintenance. Outboard engines are mounted on the transom, allowing them to be easily lifted out of the water when necessary. Their fuel systems can utilize both gasoline and diesel options, depending on the specific engine model.
Gasoline outboards are generally more lightweight and offer higher top speeds. Diesel outboards, while heavier and typically found on larger boats, provide greater fuel efficiency and have a longer operational life. This makes them an attractive choice for extensive bluewater cruising.
In conclusion, the propulsion systems and fuel types for bluewater boats vary according to boat size and intended use. Outboard-4s, inboard, and outboard systems each have their own benefits and considerations, with gasoline and diesel fuel options available to suit different preferences and cruising styles.
Dimensions and Specifications
Average Length
Bluewater boats are designed for offshore and inshore fishing experiences. The average length for offshore boats like the Bluewater 2850 Center Console is around 31 feet. In contrast, inshore boats tend to be smaller and more maneuverable.
Average Beam
The beam, or width, of a boat plays a crucial role in determining stability and interior space. Bluewater boats, being focused on delivering stable fishing platforms, typically feature wider beams. For example, the Bluewater 2850 has a beam of 9 feet 5 inches, offering stability in rough conditions.
Shallow Draft
Inshore fishing boats, commonly known as flats or bay boats, are designed with shallow drafts, allowing them to navigate shallow waters. Bluewater inshore boats from Bluewater Sportfishing Boats, Inc. are built with this feature in mind, ensuring excellent performance in shallow water. While the specific draft depends on the model, these boats are generally designed to operate in water as shallow as 1 to 2 feet.
Prices and Dealers
New Boat Prices
Bluewater boats come in a range of prices depending on the model and features. You can find new Bluewater Sportfishing boats on Boat Trader with pricing estimates to help gauge costs. For instance, a 2022 Bluewater Sportfishing 2550 CC is listed at $192,610.
Used Boat Prices
Used Bluewater boats are also available for purchase, with prices varying based on factors such as the year, model, and overall condition. On YachtWorld, used Bluewater boats can be found from $24,248 on the lower end, up to $1,495,000 for the most luxurious models.
Dealers and Locations
There are several reputable dealers and locations where you can buy Bluewater boats. Listing websites such as Boat Trader, boats.com, and YachtWorld often showcase Bluewater boats for sale from various dealers across the United States.
Some dealers of note include:
- Pop Yachts
- Pier One Yacht Sales
- Nautical Ventures
- Majesty Yachts USA
It's essential to research and verify the dealer, inspect the boat, and inquire about any necessary documentation before purchasing a Bluewater boat.
Features and Options
Insulated Fish Boxes
Bluewater boats offer features to enhance your fishing experience, one of which is insulated fish boxes. Insulated fish boxes are essential for those who want to keep their catch fresh during a long day on the water. These boxes provide ample space and are designed to maintain a cool temperature, preserving the quality of your catch until it's time to head back to shore.
Advanced Boats
Bluewater Sportfishing Boats is known for its advanced boats, built to withstand the toughest conditions at sea. Their boats come in various sizes, starting from 23 feet in length. These boats are designed for stability and smooth, dry rides in a variety of conditions, including choppy waters.
Equipped with powerful engines, the Bluewater boats can handle up to 150 horsepower, ensuring that they can reach offshore fishing spots quickly and efficiently. This power also makes it easy to navigate through strong currents, allowing you to reach prime fishing locations with ease.
In addition to the standard features, Bluewater boats offer customizable options, such as various T-top designs, to cater to your specific needs. With a focus on combining high-quality materials and practical design elements, these boats provide an exceptional fishing platform for anglers of all experience levels.
Overall, Bluewater boats provide a combination of advanced features and customizable options, creating a reliable, efficient, and comfortable fishing experience for all anglers.
Industry and Related Entities
Bluewater Sportfishing
Bluewater Sportfishing Boats is a leading company in the sportfishing industry. These boats are designed to cater to the demands of fishing enthusiasts, offering a variety of models and features to suit different needs. Bluewater boats are available at a range of prices, from $6,000 to $699,900, depending on the model and its features. The company is known for its commitment to quality and safety, meeting or exceeding all U.S. Coast Guard regulations, as well as receiving certification from the National Marine Manufacturers Association and meeting the American Boat and Yacht Council requirements(Bluewater Sportfishing Boats, Inc.).
Boat Builder
Bluewater Yacht Sales has a rich history spanning over 50 years, evolving from a small backyard sailboat operation to an influential force in the cruising and sportfishing worlds(Bluewater Navigates Fifty Years of Success). The company builds Bluewater Yachts with a focus on performance, functionality, and quality. The range of yacht models offers a variety of options for prospective buyers, from more modest models with 700 horsepower engines to high-performance models with engines up to 1,340 horsepower(Bluewater Yachts for sale - Boat Trader).
A popular model in their line-up is the Bluewater 23T sportfishing boat, which comes equipped with Yamaha 300hp four-stroke outboard engine, providing a great balance between power and efficiency(Bluewater boats for sale - boats.com).
Marine Industry
Bluewater Sportfishing Boats and Bluewater Yachts contribute significantly to the marine industry, offering high-quality and tailored products to meet the needs of various boating and fishing enthusiasts. Their commitment to safety, performance, and innovation is reflected in the numerous industry certifications and accolades earned over the years, solidifying their place as a reputable and influential entity within the marine world.