Used Bowriders for sale

What is a bowrider?

Bowrider characteristics

Bowriders are American boats that belong to the open boats category, i.e. a boat with a completely open deck. A bowrider can be recognised by the windscreen that opens in the middle, its dual console and its sociable lounge area at the bow of the boat, consisting of seats or sun loungers. This type of open boat is ideal for sunbathing and is a family boat that can accommodate between 6 and 10 people and is mainly reserved for recreational use.

Like most open boats, bowriders are suitable for many water sports such as wakeboarding or water skiing. You only need to complete the boat by buying necessary equipment such as a wakeboard tower. With no cabin (and therefore no sleeping space, kitchen or sanitary facilities), bowriders are ideal for short cruises.

Previously, most bowriders were powered by inboard motors, but more and more manufacturers are making bowriders with outboards, given how popular this kind of engine is with boaters. However, water sports enthusiasts are sure to prefer the inboard version for its propulsion system, which produces a more constant wake.

The bowrider is a sporty boat that is perfectly suited to sailing on wave-free water such as lakes and inland seas. On the high seas, the boat would risk taking on water and, in the worst case, sinking.

The best known brands to specialise in bowriders are: Regal, Four Winns, Bayliner, Glastron and Sea Ray.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a bowrider?

There are many plus points that tip the balance in favour of bowriders:

• ideal for a first boat;
• a low seat that gives you a feeling of speed and protects both people steering the boat from the wind;
• a nice high freeboard that makes bowriders extra safe;
• practical for water skis.

However, bowriders also have some disadvantages:

• unsuitable for sailing at sea, especially in strong conditions;
• little storage space.

Whether you opt for a deluxe or a basic version, you're sure to find your ideal boat among our ads for used bowriders on Band of Boats.

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