Top 10 Used Boats to Buy 2027

Direct Answer

The Best Overall used boat to buy in 2027 is the Boston Whaler Montauk (the 170 and 190 hulls from the 2015–2022 model years), with clean, well-kept examples trading around $32,000–$48,000 — its unsinkable foam-cored hull, simple rigging, and bulletproof Mercury power make it the safest used buy on the water.

The Best Value pick is the Robalo R200, where strong center-console fishability and offshore-capable build land used examples near $28,000–$38,000, well below comparable saltwater rivals. This list is built for families, anglers, and weekend cruisers who want a proven hull that holds up, holds its value, and won't drain a wallet at the surveyor or the repair yard — whether the budget sits under $20,000 or stretches toward a lightly-used $60,000 cruiser.

Every pick below uses real model-year specs and common used-market pricing, with notes on exactly what to inspect before you sign.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each used boat against what actually protects a buyer years after the sale: how the hull and rigging hold up, how easy parts and service are to source, and how much value survives at resale. We leaned on published data from Boating Magazine, BoatTEST, boats.com, Discover Boating, **NADA/J.D.

Power values, and manufacturer specs**. The weighting:

• Build quality & reliability — 25%
• On-water performance — 20%
• Value & used price — 15%
• Comfort & layout — 15%
• Features & rigging — 15%
• Resale & demand — 10%

A boat that surveys clean but bleeds value, or rides well but hides rotten stringers, drops fast. The winners stay sound, stay wanted, and stay affordable to own.

1. Boston Whaler Montauk 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Starting MSRP: $35,000 (used, 2016–2021 170/190) | Best for: Families and anglers who want the safest, most resilient used hull

The Boston Whaler Montauk 170/190 is the gold standard for a used center console that simply does not quit. The 170 runs 17 ft 4 in LOA with a 7-ft beam and a 90–115 hp Mercury rated load; the larger 190 stretches to 19 ft 1 in and accepts up to 150 hp. Both use Whaler's Unibond foam-filled hull, which is foam-cored to stay afloat even when swamped — the brand's famous "unsinkable" claim.

Expect a shallow draft near 9–12 in, fuel capacity of 41–55 gal, and capacity for 6–7 passengers. Used examples carry leaning-post seating, a console cooler, rod holders, and often a simple Garmin or Simrad chartplotter. Inspect the transom for soft spots, check the foam for water intrusion (a heavy hull is a red flag), and confirm Mercury service history.

Pros:

• Foam-cored unsinkable hull that resists swamping
• Strong resale demand keeps value high
• Simple, serviceable Mercury power with easy parts
• Shallow draft handles flats, bays, and lakes alike

Cons:

• Commands a price premium even used
• Spartan layout offers little weather protection

Verdict: The Montauk is the safest, most durable used buy here — pay the premium and you inherit a hull that lasts decades.

2. Grady-White Gulfstream 232

Starting MSRP: $45,000 (used, 2014–2020) | Best for: Serious offshore anglers who want a proven walkaround

The Grady-White Gulfstream 232 is one of the most respected mid-size offshore boats on the used market. It measures 23 ft 7 in LOA with an 8-ft 6-in beam and Grady's signature SeaV2 variable-deadrise hull that carves a dry, soft ride in a chop. Power is typically a single or twin Yamaha outboard up to 300 hp, with a fuel capacity near 156 gal and capacity for 8 passengers.

The walkaround cabin sleeps two, and used boats commonly carry a hardtop, outriggers, a large livewell, and Garmin/Raymarine electronics. Check the hardtop welds, the livewell plumbing, and the Yamaha hours; Grady hulls are famously solid, but rigging and electronics age.

Pros:

• Legendary SeaV2 dry, soft offshore ride
• Yamaha power with excellent reliability record
• Walkaround cabin adds real overnight versatility
• Holds value better than almost any offshore rival

Cons:

• Higher used pricing than coastal competitors
• Single-engine examples feel underpowered offshore

Verdict: A bluewater workhorse that surveys clean for years — the offshore angler's smartest used pick.

3. Sea Ray Sundancer 260

Starting MSRP: $38,000 (used, 2013–2019) | Best for: Couples and families who want an overnight cruiser on a budget

The Sea Ray Sundancer 260 delivers genuine cabin cruising at used prices that undercut new express boats by half. It runs 27 ft 6 in LOA with a 8-ft 6-in beam, a deep-V hull, and a single MerCruiser 6.2L sterndrive making 300–350 hp. Fuel capacity sits near 100 gal, and the cabin sleeps four with a galley and an enclosed head.

Used boats carry a cockpit wet bar, a convertible sun pad, and a swim platform. The big inspection items are the sterndrive bellows and gimbal bearing, transom integrity around the drive, and any signs of cabin water intrusion. A well-maintained MerCruiser is cheap to service.

Pros:

• Real overnight cabin with galley and enclosed head
• Affordable used pricing for true cruising space
• Serviceable MerCruiser sterndrive with cheap parts
• Comfortable cockpit layout for entertaining

Cons:

• Sterndrive needs diligent bellows and corrosion upkeep
• Single-engine docking takes practice in wind

Verdict: The budget cruiser champion — buy it for overnight comfort, but survey the sterndrive carefully.

4. Yamaha 242 Limited S

Starting MSRP: $42,000 (used, 2015–2021) | Best for: Watersports families who want jet-drive convenience

The Yamaha 242 Limited S is the benchmark used jet boat for towing and shallow-water fun. It measures 24 ft LOA with an 8-ft 6-in beam and runs twin Yamaha 1.8L supercharged jet engines producing strong acceleration with no exposed prop. Capacity reaches 12 passengers, fuel sits near 75 gal, and the jet draft is exceptionally shallow at around 12 in.

Used boats commonly carry a tower with board racks, a Connext touchscreen, and a large rear lounge. Inspect the jet pump wear rings and impellers, confirm the supercharger service intervals were met, and check for ingestion damage from sandy launches.

Pros:

• Shallow jet draft and no prop for swimmer safety
• Twin supercharged engines deliver strong tow power
• Huge passenger capacity and rear lounge space
• Strong used demand among watersports families

Cons:

• Superchargers need scheduled, documented maintenance
• Jet drives lose efficiency at low-speed maneuvering

Verdict: The watersports value play — buy it for the safe, shallow jet drive, but verify supercharger upkeep.

5. Pursuit C 238

Starting MSRP: $48,000 (used, 2014–2020) | Best for: Buyers who want a premium dual-console for fishing and family

The Pursuit C 238 blends upscale finish with real fishing capability. It runs 23 ft 9 in LOA with an 8-ft 6-in beam, a deep-V hull, and a single Yamaha F300 outboard. Fuel capacity reaches 130 gal, and it carries up to 10 passengers.

The dual-console layout offers a head compartment in the console, a transom livewell, rod holders, and a hardtop option alongside family-friendly bow seating. Pursuit's build quality rivals Grady-White, so used examples survey well; still check the console plumbing, the hardtop hardware, and the Yamaha hours.

These hold value strongly thanks to limited production.

Pros:

• Premium fit-and-finish that surveys clean
• Versatile dual-console fishing-and-family layout
• Reliable Yamaha F300 with strong parts support
• Limited production supports strong resale

Cons:

• Higher entry price than mainstream dual consoles
• Single-engine setup limits true offshore range

Verdict: A near-luxury dual console at a used price — ideal when build quality and versatility both matter.

6. Robalo R200 💎 BEST VALUE

Starting MSRP: $28,000 (used, 2015–2021) | Best for: Coastal anglers who want offshore-grade build for less

The Robalo R200 is the smartest dollar on this list. It measures 20 ft LOA with an 8-ft 2-in beam, a deep-V hull with a 21-degree transom deadrise, and accepts a single outboard up to 200 hp (commonly a Yamaha F200). Fuel capacity sits near 62 gal, capacity is 7 passengers, and the hull rides far drier than its price suggests thanks to Robalo's hand-laid fiberglass and foam-filled stringer grid.

Used boats carry a console head option, a 13-gal livewell, gunwale rod holders, and a leaning post. Inspect the stringer grid for cracks, the livewell pump, and the outboard's lower unit. For coastal fishing on a real budget, nothing here competes.

Pros:

• Offshore-grade deep-V build at an entry-level price
• Foam-filled stringer grid resists flex and rot
• Drier ride than most boats in its size and cost
• Strong fishing rigging straight from the factory

Cons:

• Smaller cockpit than 22-ft-plus rivals
• Limited seating for big family days

Verdict: The value champion — a genuinely seaworthy fishing hull for thousands less than its peers.

7. Bayliner Trophy T22CC

Starting MSRP: $22,000 (used, 2017–2022) | Best for: First-time saltwater anglers on the tightest budget

The Bayliner Trophy T22CC delivers a remarkable amount of fishing boat for the money. It runs 22 ft LOA with an 8-ft 6-in beam, a modified-V hull, and accepts a single outboard up to 200 hp (often a Mercury). Fuel capacity sits near 62 gal, capacity is 7 passengers, and the deck carries a 23-gal livewell, rod holders, a console with optional head, and ample insulated storage.

The Trophy is built to a price, so inspect closely: check the transom and stringers for moisture, the rub rail and hardware for corrosion, and the Mercury's compression and hours. A sound one is a tremendous entry into saltwater fishing.

Pros:

• Lowest entry price of any saltwater pick here
• Surprisingly capable fishing deck and livewell
• Common Mercury power keeps service cheap
• Wide beam adds stability for new boaters

Cons:

• Built to a budget, so survey hull moisture closely
• Resale value softer than premium brands

Verdict: The budget entry point to saltwater fishing — buy a clean one and inspect the hull thoroughly.

8. Lund Pro-V 1875

Starting MSRP: $30,000 (used, 2016–2022) | Best for: Freshwater anglers who want a serious aluminum fishing rig

The Lund Pro-V 1875 is the benchmark used aluminum walleye and multi-species boat. It measures 18 ft 8 in LOA with a 96-in beam, a welded aluminum IPS2 hull, and accepts a transom outboard up to 150 hp (commonly a Mercury or Yamaha) plus a bow trolling motor. It carries 5 passengers, fuel sits near 38 gal, and the deck is purpose-built with dual livewells, rod lockers, a Lowrance or Humminbird depth finder, and pro-style casting decks.

Aluminum resists the impact damage that cracks fiberglass; inspect the welds, rivets, and transom, plus the trolling-motor mount and electronics. These run nearly forever with care.

Pros:

• Welded aluminum hull shrugs off impacts and rocks
• Purpose-built fishing deck with dual livewells
• Light weight tows easily behind a midsize SUV
• Excellent freshwater resale demand

Cons:

• Aluminum rides harder than fiberglass in chop
• Less suited to big open water or saltwater

Verdict: The freshwater fishing standard — a tough aluminum rig that holds value and runs for decades.

9. Bennington 22 SSRX Pontoon

Starting MSRP: $32,000 (used, 2017–2022) | Best for: Families who want roomy, stable lake cruising and entertaining

The Bennington 22 SSRX is the most family-friendly used buy here. It runs about 24 ft 10 in LOA with an 8-ft 6-in beam across triple aluminum tubes (tritoon), accepting an outboard up to 250 hp for real tow-sport speed. It seats up to 13 passengers, fuel sits near 45 gal, and the deck carries plush wraparound lounges, a Bluetooth stereo, a changing room option, and a swim ladder.

The tritoon's stability makes it ideal for kids and non-boaters. Inspect the tubes for dents and corrosion, the deck wood/composite for soft spots, the furniture vinyl, and the outboard hours. Bennington's build quality leads the pontoon segment.

Pros:

• Tritoon stability and huge seating for families
• Strong tow-sport capability with up to 250 hp
• Premium furniture and finish lead the segment
• Strong used demand on inland lakes

Cons:

• Pontoons are limited to calm inland water
• Large footprint needs ample trailer and storage

Verdict: The family lake champion — buy a clean tritoon for unmatched space, stability, and entertaining.

10. Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport

Starting MSRP: $18,000 (used, 2015–2021) | Best for: First boaters and tenders who want bulletproof simplicity

The Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport is the most affordable way into the Whaler badge and a superb first or second boat. It measures 13 ft 6 in LOA with a 6-ft 2-in beam, the same Unibond foam-cored unsinkable hull, and accepts a 40 hp outboard (commonly a Mercury).

It carries 4 passengers, has a tiny fuel capacity near 12 gal, and a draft under 8 in. Used boats carry bench seating, a small console, and a bow locker. There's little to break, but check the foam for waterlogging (weigh the boat if possible), the transom, and the outboard compression.

It doubles perfectly as a yacht tender or lake runabout.

Pros:

• Same unsinkable foam-cored hull as bigger Whalers
• Lowest entry price to the Boston Whaler brand
• Tiny draft and light weight for easy launching
• Almost nothing to break or maintain

Cons:

• Small size limits range and rough-water use
• Seating and storage are minimal

Verdict: The bulletproof starter boat — buy it for unsinkable simplicity as a first boat or tender.

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

What to Look For When Buying a Used Boat

• Hull moisture and stringer integrity — Tap the transom and deck for soft spots, and have a surveyor moisture-meter the hull. On foam-cored Whalers, a heavy boat signals waterlogged foam — a costly fix.
• Engine hours and service records — Outboards over 1,000–1,500 hours need scrutiny; demand a compression test and documented maintenance. MerCruiser sterndrives need bellows, gimbal-bearing, and corrosion checks.
• Rigging, electronics, and trailer — Confirm steering, throttle, livewell pumps, and chartplotters all work; budget for aged electronics. A sound trailer with good bearings and tires saves real money.
• Corrosion and saltwater wear — Inspect through-hulls, fuel tanks, wiring, and aluminum components for galvanic corrosion, especially on saltwater boats.
• Title, registration, and lien status — Verify a clean title and hull identification number (HIN), and check for outstanding liens before any deposit.
• Survey before you buy — On anything over roughly $15,000, a professional marine survey and sea trial pay for themselves many times over.

What matters less than marketing implies: cosmetic gelcoat shine, brand-name electronics, and trailerable trim packages. A buffed hull hides nothing structural; what protects your wallet is sound stringers, healthy engine compression, and a clean title.

FAQ

What is the best used boat to buy in 2027? The Boston Whaler Montauk (170/190 from roughly 2016–2021, around $35,000+ used) is our top pick for its unsinkable foam-cored hull, simple Mercury power, and strong resale demand that protects your investment.

What is the best value used boat? The Robalo R200, with clean examples near $28,000–$38,000, offers offshore-grade deep-V build and serious fishing rigging for thousands less than comparable saltwater center consoles.

How many engine hours are too many on a used boat? For a gas outboard, 1,000–1,500 hours warrants careful inspection and a compression test; well-maintained engines can run far longer, while neglected ones fail sooner. Always weigh hours against documented service history.

Should I get a survey before buying a used boat? Yes — on any boat over roughly $15,000, a professional marine survey and sea trial reveal hidden hull moisture, corrosion, and rigging problems that easily cost more than the survey fee.

Which used boats hold their value best? Boston Whaler, Grady-White, and Pursuit lead on resale thanks to legendary build quality and steady demand; Lund and Bennington hold value strongly in the freshwater and pontoon segments.

Is an aluminum or fiberglass used boat better? Aluminum boats like the Lund Pro-V resist impact damage and tow lighter, ideal for freshwater fishing; fiberglass rides smoother in chop and suits saltwater and cruising. Match the material to your water and use.

Bottom Line

For 2027, the Boston Whaler Montauk is our Best Overall used boat — clean 170/190 examples from around $35,000 deliver an unsinkable hull, simple serviceable power, and the strongest resale demand on the water. The Robalo R200, near $28,000–$38,000, is our Best Value, packing offshore-grade build and real fishing rigging for far less than its peers.

If your needs lean toward offshore range, overnight cruising, watersports, or freshwater fishing, use the decision tree above to route yourself to the Grady-White, Sea Ray, Yamaha 242, or Lund instead. Buy on hull integrity, engine health, and a clean survey — not gelcoat shine — and you will own a boat that lasts for years.

Sources

• Boating Magazine — used boat reviews and buying guides
• Discover Boating — boat types and buyer resources
• BoatTEST — independent boat tests and specs
• boats.com — used boat listings and reviews
• Yachting — cruiser and offshore boat coverage
• Boston Whaler — official Montauk and 130 specs
• Grady-White — official Gulfstream specs
• Robalo Boats — official R200 specs
• Lund Boats — official Pro-V specs
• Bennington Marine — official pontoon specs

*Used boat review — best used boats 2027, reviews, ratings, prices, and a review of the top used boat picks for buyers.*