When considering a boat, two major factors that can make or break the experience are speed and space. Whether you’re cruising with the family, enjoying watersports, or just relaxing on the water, having enough room for comfort should be at the top of your list. Another critical piece is the engine. Outboards, jet drives, and stern drives each have their advantages and uses, so make sure you know which one you are looking for. We recommend taking the family to a boat show and letting them get a feel for what’s comfortable.
Cobalt R5 Surf
The Cobalt R5 strikes a balance between luxury, performance, and versatility. It’s ideal for families looking to get into watersports or simply relax on the water.
- Length: 25 feet
- Beam: 8 feet 6 inches
- Weight: 5,000+ lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 48 gallons
- Engine: Inboard V8 Gas Volvo Penta
Performance:
With a top speed of around 50 mph, the Cobalt R5 is perfect for activities like tubing, skiing, and wakeboarding. Its well-designed hull ensures stability even in choppy conditions.
Comfort:
The R5 has a great lounger on the stern with ample seating in the bow.
Pricing:
Expect to find this boat around $100,000.
Yamaha 242X E-Series
The Yamaha 242X E-Series is a high-performance jet boat designed for watersports enthusiasts.
- Length: 24 feet
- Beam: 8 feet 6 inches
- Weight: 4,000 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 50 gallons
- Engine: Twin 1.8 L high-output jet drives
Performance:
With a top speed of 50 mph, the 242X accelerates quickly and is perfect for advanced watersports.
Comfort:
It offers spacious bow seating and a ladder at the front for easy access at sandbars.
Pricing:
Starting at around $80,000.
Sea Ray SLX 280
The Sea Ray SLX 280 focuses on luxury and reliability. Known for comfort, Sea Ray boats stand out with their high-end features.
- Length: 28 feet 6 inches
- Beam: 9 feet
- Weight: 8,500 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 135 gallons
- Engine: Twin Mercury 250hp outboards
Performance:
With a top speed of 50-55 mph, the SLX 280 delivers powerful performance.
Comfort:
L-shaped seating behind the helm provides ample room for up to 10 guests.
Pricing:
Starting price is around $200,000.
Chaparral 287 SSX
The Chaparral 287 SSX combines adventure and luxury, making it a great choice for water activities and family outings.
- Length: 28 feet
- Beam: 8 feet 6 inches
- Weight: 5,500 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 80 gallons
- Engine: Mercruiser 8.1L inboard
Performance:
Reaching up to 45+ mph, the 287 SSX offers powerful speed for various water sports.
Comfort:
It features a large stern lounger, L-shaped seating, and a spacious head area.
Pricing:
Pricing starts just under $200,000.
Regal 2800 Bowrider
The Regal 2800 Bowrider is a fast and versatile stern-drive boat from a respected manufacturer.
- Length: 28 feet 6 inches
- Beam: 9 feet
- Weight: 7,100 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 124 gallons
- Engine: Stern Drive (Volvo or Mercruiser)
Performance:
The boat reaches speeds of around 45 mph.
Comfort:
Its lounge area features L-shaped seating, and there is a decently sized head area for convenience.
Pricing:
Starting around $130,000.
Formula 310 Bowrider
The Formula 310 Bowrider is one of the fastest boats in its size range, making it perfect for those seeking to prioritize speed.
- Length: 31 feet
- Beam: 9 feet 6 inches
- Weight: 10,000+ lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 130 gallons
- Engine: Twin ILMORE Stern Drives
Performance:
Capable of reaching up to 55+ mph, the Formula 310 is a speed machine.
Comfort:
The spacious design includes a wet bar, making it perfect for hosting guests.
Pricing:
Starts around $220,000.
MasterCraft X24
The MasterCraft X24 is designed for serious watersports like wakeboarding and surfing, while maintaining a small footprint for easier towing.
- Length: 24 feet
- Beam: 8 feet 6 inches
- Weight: 6,000 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 85 gallons
- Engine: Stern Drive V8 Gas Volvo Penta
Performance:
With a top speed of 52 mph, the X24 produces incredible wakes for watersports.
Comfort:
It comfortably seats eight passengers with well-designed seating.
Pricing:
Starts at around $200,000.
Key West 239 FS
The Key West 239 FS is a versatile fishing boat that offers a blend of performance and family-friendly features.
- Length: 23 feet 9 inches
- Beam: 8 feet 6 inches
- Weight: 2,800 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 100 gallons
- Engine: Outboard Yamaha 250hp
Performance:
With a top speed of around 45 mph, it’s not the fastest on the list but offers excellent fuel efficiency.
Comfort:
While not as luxurious as bowriders, the 239 FS offers a more fishing-centric layout. For added comfort, consider the 239 DFS model.
Pricing:
Starts around $100,000.
Conclusion
Choosing the right boat depends on your priorities—whether it’s speed, comfort, or a mix of both. Equally important is the engine choice, where outboards are pretty much taking over. Outboards are known for their versatility and power, jet drives for their quick acceleration and shallow water capabilities, and stern drives offer a balance of both. Whichever you choose, make sure it suits your lifestyle and how you plan to use your boat.