Articles

Boat Reviews

In-Depth Look: Regulator 25 Review

Meet the Regulator 25 The Regulator 25 might be one of the smaller models in Regulator’s offshore lineup, but it still packs the same punch as its bigger siblings. At 25 feet 2 inches long with an 8-foot 10-inch beam, this boat is compact enough to trailer, yet bold enough to head well offshore, thanks to its deep-V hull and rugged…

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In Depth Look: Grady White 281 Coastal Explorer Review

Meet the Grady White 281 Coastal Explorer: Redefining Versatility on the Water When it comes to coastal exploration, Grady-White has long been a name synonymous with quality, reliability, and innovation. The 281 Coastal Explorer takes these hallmarks to a whole new level, blending inshore agility with offshore capability to create a boat that excels in…

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In Depth Look: Sea Pro 245 Sandbar Review

If you’re searching for a versatile center console that’s perfect for fishing, family outings, and sandbar adventures, the Sea Pro 245 Sandbar deserves a spot at the top of your list. Designed with both fun and functionality in mind, this boat seamlessly blends the best of inshore and nearshore performance with the comfort and style you’d want…

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Boat Comparisons

Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX vs Godrey Xperience 2086 SBX

When you’re in the market for a pontoon boat that’s ready to create endless memories on the water, the Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX and the Godfrey Xperience 2086 SBX are two models worth considering. Both are designed with comfort, practicality, and fun in mind, offering plenty of features for family outings, social gatherings, or simply enjoying a…

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Ranger Z520R vs. Nitro Z20 XL: A Head-to-Head Comparison of Top-Tier Bass Boats

When it comes to top-tier bass boats, the Ranger Z520R and Nitro Z20 XL have earned their places as standout choices for serious anglers. These models represent the pinnacle of innovation and performance in their class, each offering a unique blend of features that cater to different fishing styles and priorities. Whether you’re drawn to the cutting-edge technology and…

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Freeman 42LR vs. 43: What’s the Real Difference?

Getting to Know the Freeman 42LR and 43 The Freeman Legacy: Cutting-Edge Offshore Catamarans Freeman Boatworks has built a reputation for delivering top-tier offshore fishing catamarans that masterfully balance performance, durability, and luxury. The Freeman 42LR (Long Range) and the Freeman 43 are two standout models in their lineup, often stirring up debate among boating…

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Boat Tips

2025 Best Center Consoles Under $50,000

In an era where boat prices continue their relentless climb and manufacturers seem fixated on producing massive, head-turning center consoles with eye-watering price tags in the high six to seven figures, finding an affordable option has become increasingly challenging for the average boating enthusiast. The market’s obsession with bigger, flashier, and more luxurious vessels has…

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Understanding Boat Terminology

Intro to Boat Terminology If you’ve ever spent time on the water, you know that boating has its own unique language. Understanding this terminology isn’t just about sounding like a pro—it’s about safety, smoother communication, and making your time on the water more enjoyable. Whether you’re anchoring for a peaceful day of fishing, docking after…

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10 Center Consoles for the Family

Not every center console is built just for hardcore anglers. In recent years, more and more manufacturers have embraced the idea that a great center console should work just as well for families as it does for fishing. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, cruising sandbars, or pulling a tube on the lake, the right center console…

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Travel Destinations

Hidden Coastal Towns Worth Trailering Your Boat To

There’s something special about finding a coastal town that still feels untouched. The kind of place where the boat ramp is never crowded, the seafood is caught just offshore, and the locals wave as you idle past the marina. For those who like to bring their boat with them on vacation, those quiet, hard-to-find destinations…

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Your Complete Guide to the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Every fall, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show transforms South Florida into the epicenter of the boating world. Recognized as the largest in-water boat show on the planet, it’s a spectacle that draws everyone from first-time buyers to celebrities searching for their next yacht. The scale alone is jaw-dropping—miles of docks lined with everything from…

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Top 10 Coastal Towns to Visit This Fall in the Southeast

Fall is one of the most rewarding times of year to explore the Southeast’s coast. The heat and humidity of summer begin to fade, giving way to comfortably warm afternoons and cooler mornings that make time on the coast more enjoyable. Fishing heats up as inshore species like redfish and trout gather in the creeks…

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How to

What to Look for When Buying a Used Boat

Why Buying a Used Boat is a Smart Choice Buying a used boat can be one of the smartest decisions for boat enthusiasts and first-time buyers alike. Not only can you find affordable used boats that fit your budget, but the variety of pre-owned boats available means there’s something for everyone—from fishing rigs to family…

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Boat Fuel 101: How to Protect Your Engine and Avoid Costly Mistakes

Ask any marine technician, and they’ll tell you—fuel-related issues are one of the most common causes of engine trouble. Whether you’re running a Mercury, Yamaha or other brand of outboard, the quality of the fuel in your tank directly affects how your boat performs and how long it lasts. Unlike cars that burn through fuel…

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Can You Finance a Boat with Bad Credit?

*BoaterUSA may receive a commission if you apply for and are approved for a boat loan through links in this article. This comes at no additional cost to you and helps support our content and platform. We only recommend financing partners we trust. Financing a Boat When Your Credit Isn’t Perfect Dreaming of hitting the…

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