Sun on your face, a breeze across the open bow, and everyone you love within arm's reach. The bowrider is a joyful ways to spend an afternoon on the water.
What a bowrider is
A bowrider is a runabout with an open seating area in the bow, reached through a walk through windshield. The open bow adds seating and sunning space that a closed bow runabout or cuddy gives up. Larger crossover bowriders add a compact cabin and head under the helm, blending the open air feel of a bowrider with some of the comfort of a cruiser.
Who it suits
Bowriders suit families and couples who boat for the day: cruising, swimming, towing a tube and stopping for lunch. Larger crossover models appeal to owners who want an open bow social layout with a place to rest and an enclosed head.
Typical sizes and layouts
Traditional bowriders typically range from about 16 to 28 feet, while crossover models extend into the low to mid 30 foot range. Typical features include:
- Bow seating with cushions and storage
- A windshield with a walk through opening
- An aft bench or sun pad over the engine
- A swim platform and ladder
- A small cabin and head on crossover models
Strengths and tradeoffs
**Strengths**
- Generous seating for the length
- A social layout for families and friends
- Versatile for cruising, swimming and watersports
**Tradeoffs**
- The open bow can take spray in a chop
- Limited or no overnight space on smaller models
- Less fishing capability than a center console
Using it on Tampa Bay and the Gulf Coast
On Tampa Bay a bowrider is made for calm day cruising, sandbar visits and sunset runs. Choose your days with an eye on the wind, since the open bow is more comfortable in protected water. Outboard powered models make it simpler to reach shallow spots near the islands.
Buying tips
- Check the bow and windshield seals and upholstery for sun wear.
- Review engine hours and service history.
- We highly recommend an independent survey on every deal.
Find your bowrider
If an open bow and a sunny afternoon sound like your kind of day, we would love to help you find your bowrider.
Selling your bowrider? Michael lists and markets boats like yours to qualified buyers across Florida and the USA, with professional video, photography and a clear pricing plan.
Talk with Michael about a bowrider
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