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Best Hybrid Bay Boats for Inshore and Offshore Fishing

• By Chris Woodward
• Updated: May 23, 2024

Bay boats exploded in popularity during the last decade, as many anglers sought to fish the middle zones between blue water and emerald flats. But more and more often bay anglers coveted bluebird days when they could creep offshore. They longed for a do-it-all fishing machine — something that felt more at home in rough seas yet still allowed them to plink around docks and grass flats.

Enter the hybrid bay boat. A few boat manufacturers stretched their models to 25 feet, and then 27 and now, at least one bay boat on the market tapes out at almost 28 feet LOA, and several can be powered by twin outboards. But it’s not just length that sets this breed apart. Some hybrid bay boats offer a full transom while preserving a forward casting deck; some builders have added interior gunwale height, still others have opted for full-height helm enclosures.

Anglers now have an ever-widening range of options. In your search, it might be tempting to simply seek out the best bay boat for the money, but we can all agree that cost is not the only parameter. Most importantly, buy a boat based on your fishing needs. Here are 15 of the best hybrid bay boats that transition from inshore to offshore fishing. They’re listed from the shortest to the longest LOA.

Grady-White 251 Coastal Explorer

Scout 251 xss, contender 25 bay, barker 26 open, sea cat 260, yellowfin 26 hybrid, jupiter 25 bay, parker 26 sh, regulator 26xo, pathfinder 2700 open, sea vee 270z, tidewater 2700 carolina bay, everglades 273cc, caymas 28 hb, blue wave 2800 makaira.

– WATCH OUT FOR CARBON MONOXIDE – Learn the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, such as headache, nausea, and dizziness. Immediately seek fresh air and medical assistance if anyone exhibits these symptoms. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

When Grady introduced the 251 Coastal Explorer in 2014, it kept the sharp entry and continuously variable-V hull characteristic of the company’s offshore boats. It also features 20 inches of aft cockpit depth, which is greater than most traditional bay boats. On the other hand, the 251 offers casting platforms fore and aft that convert to seating, and it floats in 14 inches of water.

Scout redesigned the bottom of the original 251 XS to make it a dual-stepped hull versus single-stepped. The current XSS version also features a proud bow, glass-enclosed helm, and a slightly deeper deadrise than many traditional bay boats. For inshore fishing, Scout offers a casting-deck extension that can convert to a table. The well-appointed 251 also floats in just 13 inches of water.

Standout standard features on Contender’s bay boat include spacious casting platforms fore and aft, covering boards and bolster pads surrounding the cockpit, two livewells — 40- and 12-gallon capacity — and twin rod lockers. Drawing just 12 inches of water, the 25 Bay floats shallower than most, but its twin-stepped hull makes the boat efficient and fast offshore.

This Michael Peters-designed and patented Stepped-Vee Ventilated Tunnel hull has the lowest drag coefficient of any monohull, which makes it faster with better handling, improved fuel economy and a better ride, Barker says. The 26 Open features a deeper cockpit with a minimal aft casting deck and 60 gallons of livewell capacity. Opt for a full second station for spotting redfish or tuna birds.

With its multihull design, the Sea Cat 260 naturally handles twin outboards and features higher gunwales for offshore capability. But it also offers a large forward casting platform (trolling motor optional) and it floats in 14 inches of water. The twin 25-gallon transom livewells offer plenty of bait storage for offshore adventures.

Yellowfin’s 26 Hybrid offers 21 inches of aft cockpit depth and a sharp 60-degree entry with 20 degrees of deadrise at the transom. Drawing 15 inches of water with a single outboard and 18 with twins, it can drift deeper flats inshore or post up on shallow canals and ledges. Fishing features include large livewells, oversize insulated fish boxes and a second station option.

– CHECK THE WEATHER – The weather changes all the time. Always check the forecast and prepare for the worst case. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Jupiter says it applied the lines of its bigger offshore boats to this bay boat to give it the design and functionality to handle challenging seas. The company eliminated fore and aft casting decks, which become unsuitable in any kind of sea. Aft cockpit depth measures 22 inches. At the bow, the deck lies 25 inches below the gunwale. A 40-gallon livewell and 110 gallons of insulated fish boxes top the list of angling features.

Parker says it spent two years creating this hybrid bay boat, giving it ample inshore fishing space fore and aft with broad platforms, yet creating enough beam and gunwale height for added safety when venturing offshore. The 26 SH also features twin 30-gallon recirculating livewells, lockable storage and a large fish box.

The Regulator 26XO features a standard fiberglass hardtop with an integrated windshield, reminiscent of Regulator’s 41-footer. It offers a broad forward casting deck and smaller aft deck with an elevated lip. Cockpit depth aft measures 19 ¼ inches. The 26XO measures more than 26 feet in length and sports 9 feet 3 inches of beam, making it a stable platform and one that’s still capable of floating in under 16 inches of water.

The double-stepped hull Pathfinder 2700 Open features a true hybrid deck layout, the company says. The aft cockpit remains open like an offshore center console but there’s a raised foredeck for casting and castnetting. Fishing features include a 42-gallon leaning-post livewell and a 22-galllon aft well, plus three fish boxes. Pathfinder’s VARIS vacuum-infusion technology keeps the 27-footer relatively light at 4,934 pounds with engine.

In 2014, the 270Z — at 27 feet LOA — emerged as the largest bay boat to date. With its award-winning stepped-hull design, the boat handles open water well; it easily fishes five anglers and remains stable at rest. The broad foredeck rises more than 20 inches above the main deck. The aft casting platform measures 98 inches wide and 42 inches along the centerline. The jack plate and 15-inch draft allow this boat to motor across shallow flats.

– TOW LIKE A PRO – Remember to leave extra stopping room when trailering your boat. At the ramp, be considerate of others but take the time you need to launch and recover your boat safely. Always check tie-downs, safety chains, lights – and the drain plug. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Tidewater says its stepped-hull 2700 Carolina Bay combines the capabilities of a full-featured center console with shallow-water fishability and the amenities of a deck boat. It features fore and aft casting platforms and an aquarium-style livewell aft of the leaning post. The 2700 can be powered with a single outboard or twins and offers 141 gallons of fuel capacity.

The Everglades 273cc features an 18-inch draft that creates a compromise between smaller bay boats that float in 12 to 14 inches of water and more aggressive deep-Vs that need 24 inches. The 20 degrees of transom deadrise and proud bow assist in offshore capability, and the expansive aft deck offers height and ease of casting inshore. Power this hybrid with a single outboard or twins up to a max of 600 hp.

A Michael Peters designed hull, the Caymas 28 HB offers a broad casting deck forward and a fishable aft deck. The 24 ½-inch freeboard and the 9-foot-4-inch beam give it security and stability outside the bay, and the 17-inch draft and jackplate allow it to float over inshore flats. The 28 HB can be rigged with a single outboard up to 450 hp; it carries 120 gallons of fuel.

Blue Wave Boats says its 2800 Makaira features a cockpit that rivals many of the 30- to 33-foot center consoles on the market. At the same time, the near-28-footer still manages an aft platform because the deck design lacks a splashwell. The bow wraparound seating easily transforms into a forward casting platform complete with a pitchwell. Other fishing amenities include lockable rod storage and livewells throughout. The Makaira can carry anything from a single 350 hp outboard to twin 300s.

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Are Tidewater Boats Good & Reliable Enough To Own?

Tidewater boats are many people’s choices for cruising, saltwater fishing, and freshwater fishing. They are quite affordable and great for use.

However, are they good and reliable? Can you buy these boats for fishing or cruises? Are they good for the price?

Well, these boats are reliable for that cheap price rate and durable for long use. You can get one for different purposes. Some of the models are good for fishing and some are best for enjoying a trip.

But, altogether, these boats are great for anyone who is looking for buying a new boat. In this article, hence, I will tell you more about the Tidewater boats and everything that you should know before buying one.

How Good Tidewater Boats Are?

Tidewater Boats was founded in 2006 by several former Sea Pro Boats personnel, including Jimmy Metts, the company’s president.

They set out to make boats that were both inexpensive and suitable for offshore fishing and regular leisure boating.

The Tidewater brand, as a company that seeks to build at a cheap cost, faces the same difficulties as other low-cost producers.

When compared to more expensively made boats, there is an unavoidable decline in quality. There have been both harsh critics and ardent supporters of the brand.

How Reliable Are Tidewater Boats?

The tidewater boats are quite impressive in the price range. Not many boats of the low budget range offer great quality and durability like the Tidewater.

However, many users found the boats somewhat problematic in some cases. It is normal for a low-budget boat to have some minor technical issues.

Some people find electrical issues that happen sometimes in the control panel. Some found problems with their hardtop. Some said they found broken materials.

All of these are common in similar value brands. But Tidewater tries to support the customers through their customer service and quick response.

During the mid of 2010, there were lots of negative comments flooding the forums about the bad sides of Tidewater. However, they have improved a lot after all that. And people are sharing how awesome these boats are!

Thus, you can be sure of the reliability of Tidewater boats.

How Durable Are Tidewater Boats?

Tidewater Boats appear to be as durable as other boats of comparable quality. A few versions, even new ones, have cracks in the fiberglass and gel coat.

These issues are less typical in higher-end models, but they are not rare in this price range.

Some owners have expressed dissatisfaction with the boat’s upholstery. Cushions separating or coming apart at the seams seem to be the most common cause of these issues.

Because the upholstery comes with a one-year warranty, several owners have been dissatisfied with the response they’ve received when seeking to get the damaged cushions replaced.

The building technique and quality appear to be good to that of other producers in the same price range.

What About Older Tidewater Boats?

Tidewater boats are quite new in the market. The company started building boats in 2006 and not many older models are found.

The earliest boats they produced appear to be as durable as modern models. Over time, higher-end boats with better manufacture will have fewer issues.

Because Tidewater is targeted at competing with less-expensive companies, older Tidewater boats will exhibit issues common to that price point.

Cracks in the hull and the gel coat are the main culprits.

Most of the low-price boats show similar problems. However, the newer models tend to be more problem-free than the older ones.

Do They Still Make Parts For Older Models?

Major parts from their previous models are still being manufactured because they are relatively new.

They’re easy to get by thanks to the dealer network.

The few items that are no longer manufactured can sometimes be purchased from the dealer network or the original company.

What Are Typical Problems With Tidewater Boats?

There are some common problems in Tidewater boats that you will find in other similar price point boats from different companies.

Some of the issues identified by Tidewater boat owners are common to all fiberglass boats: hull cracks and gel coat cracks along the deck.

Furthermore, several of the pillow snaps have broken loose from the fiberglass.

Spider fractures in the gel coat, on the other hand, became a big problem for Tidewater in the mid-2010s. The company’s efforts to address the issue and make their owners happy were detailed in detail on their owners’ forum.

They have also been having powder coat concerns at the time, but the difficulties were broader than simply their brand. Many users have expressed dissatisfaction with the ride.

Although being built to sail gently over a steep sea, some passengers claim that the boat’s broad bow and firm chines make for a bumpy ride.

Some have claimed that the deadrise angle is inferior to that of similar models.

There are many negative comments that you can find and some bitter experiences that can make you feel doubt about buying Tidewater boats. But that’s good for you as you will check them before buying.

However, you will also find counter comments and positive sides of these boats which will give you confidence for buying these boats.

How Long Do Tidewater Boats Last Compared To Similar Brands?

Well, this is a tough question to answer because it’s been only several years since the Tidewater boats have embarked on the boat-making business.

Nonetheless, when users of older Tidewater hulls compare their boats to those of owners of rival brands of comparable quality, it does not appear that Tidewater is any less durable.

It’s always important to think about how well the boat has been cared for during its life.

An older, lower-quality boat that has gotten the best care is likely to be in better form than a newer, higher-quality boat that has been left out in the weather and neglected.

Do Tidewater Boats Hold Their Value?

It should be safe to say that these are made for budget buying. They are quite inexpensive and provide good quality.

But if we compare the boats to an expensive feature boat then that wouldn’t do any justice to them.

Hence, I can say they are great in the price range and are an excellent choice compared to many other similar range boats.

Are Tidewater Boats Still Being Made?

The company making Tidewater boats is working to expand the business and running it strongly.

They have been making amazing boats for different needs.

Tidewater’s Bay Max and Carolina Bay series have bay boats ranging in size from 19 to 27 ft. Both types include dual live wells, big consoles, and plenty of casting places in the bow and deck.

Furthermore, the Carolina Bay series, which ranges in length from 20 to 27 feet, has a significantly wider bow casting area and more flair for a smoother ride in harsher circumstances.

The Adventure and LXF series of Tidewater center consoles are available in sizes ranging from 18 to 32 feet. The Adventure series was created with anglers in mind, having greater cockpit floor space aft and plenty of rod holders.

Built on the very same robust hull, the LXF series features full bench seating aft as well as extended lounge seating in the bow region. Both types include hinged bow backrests and cushion seating, making them suitable for families.

Final Thoughts

Tidewater boats are one of the best that you can buy in the cheap budget range. There are also other companies that can compete with them but people who have used this company’s boats are mostly satisfied with the durability and reliability.

Their post-buying services are also great that people like to buy from them as they can help them in any situation.

Just like other low-budget boats Tidewater also has some problems but that aside if you are looking for a low-price boat then you should definitely check the Tidewater.

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• Maxum Boat Reviews: Are They Good And Reliable?
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TIDEWATEROWNERS.COM

Owners Group for Tidewater Boats

• TIDEWATEROWNERS.COM > OWNERS MAINTENANCE OF BOAT AND SYSTEMS > Boat and Accessories >

Considering Tidewater? A Word of Caution

Post Apr 07, 2018 #1 2018-04-07T12:38+00:00

Post Apr 08, 2018 #2 2018-04-08T14:43+00:00

Dranrab wrote: Hi folks. Let me set the stage for you a bit.  I am a Tidewater owner.  I am on my second Tidewater boat.  I think Tidewater offers a lot of boat for the money and their quality is as good as other boats in their price class.  I read quite a bit on various forums.  Over on The Hull Truth a few threads popped up recently that show how badly Tidewater is handling serious warranty claims.  Between Tidewater and their dealers, these poor folks have been run through the ringer.  It looks like Tidewater was content to blow them off until social media pressure got very heavy.  They may finally be on their way to resolution, but only time will tell.  It's a shame that Tidewater has put them through so much hell over very serious and obvious issues.   https://www.thehulltruth.com/dockside-c ... a-bay.html https://www.thehulltruth.com/carolinas/ ... aw-nc.html

Post Apr 08, 2018 #3 2018-04-08T16:18+00:00

Post Apr 08, 2018 #4 2018-04-08T16:43+00:00

cabjr303 wrote: Dranrab wrote: Hi folks. Let me set the stage for you a bit.  I am a Tidewater owner.  I am on my second Tidewater boat.  I think Tidewater offers a lot of boat for the money and their quality is as good as other boats in their price class.  I read quite a bit on various forums.  Over on The Hull Truth a few threads popped up recently that show how badly Tidewater is handling serious warranty claims.  Between Tidewater and their dealers, these poor folks have been run through the ringer.  It looks like Tidewater was content to blow them off until social media pressure got very heavy.  They may finally be on their way to resolution, but only time will tell.  It's a shame that Tidewater has put them through so much hell over very serious and obvious issues.   https://www.thehulltruth.com/dockside-c ... a-bay.html https://www.thehulltruth.com/carolinas/ ... aw-nc.html

Post Apr 08, 2018 #5 2018-04-08T18:22+00:00

Dranrab wrote: cabjr303 wrote: Dranrab wrote: Hi folks. Let me set the stage for you a bit.  I am a Tidewater owner.  I am on my second Tidewater boat.  I think Tidewater offers a lot of boat for the money and their quality is as good as other boats in their price class.  I read quite a bit on various forums.  Over on The Hull Truth a few threads popped up recently that show how badly Tidewater is handling serious warranty claims.  Between Tidewater and their dealers, these poor folks have been run through the ringer.  It looks like Tidewater was content to blow them off until social media pressure got very heavy.  They may finally be on their way to resolution, but only time will tell.  It's a shame that Tidewater has put them through so much hell over very serious and obvious issues.   https://www.thehulltruth.com/dockside-c ... a-bay.html https://www.thehulltruth.com/carolinas/ ... aw-nc.html

Post Apr 08, 2018 #6 2018-04-08T18:56+00:00

Post Apr 08, 2018 #7 2018-04-08T19:38+00:00

topri1234 wrote: cabjr303 wrote: Dranrab wrote: Hi folks. Let me set the stage for you a bit.  I am a Tidewater owner.  I am on my second Tidewater boat.  I think Tidewater offers a lot of boat for the money and their quality is as good as other boats in their price class.  I read quite a bit on various forums.  Over on The Hull Truth a few threads popped up recently that show how badly Tidewater is handling serious warranty claims.  Between Tidewater and their dealers, these poor folks have been run through the ringer.  It looks like Tidewater was content to blow them off until social media pressure got very heavy.  They may finally be on their way to resolution, but only time will tell.  It's a shame that Tidewater has put them through so much hell over very serious and obvious issues.   https://www.thehulltruth.com/dockside-c ... a-bay.html https://www.thehulltruth.com/carolinas/ ... aw-nc.html

Post Apr 09, 2018 #8 2018-04-09T02:12+00:00

Post Apr 10, 2018 #9 2018-04-10T19:55+00:00

Post Apr 11, 2018 #10 2018-04-11T00:37+00:00

cabjr303 wrote: topri1234 wrote: cabjr303 wrote: I am still waiting for a decision on mine. I communicated with Tidewater's customers service rep several weeks ago, and was told he was speaking with the marine representative that I bought the new 19CC boat from. The dealership has since changed to another dealer, and they wanted me to go through them now. I really believe that since I have heard nothing else from Tidewater, I am being snubbed. In addition, why in the world would I go to another dealer? I've spoken to the original dealer and they have advised that they would willing do the repairs required if Tidewater approves them.

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THE M32 ONE DESIGN

A 32 foot catamaran.

The M32 was first designed in 2011 by well known Swedish sailor Göran Marström, an Olympic bronze medallist at the 1980 Moscow Olympics, and a successful boat builder of catamarans since 1983 including the Tornado, M5 A-Class, M20 catamaran, and the Extreme 40.

WHAT OUR OWNERS THINK >

HÅKAN SVENSSON

Keen sailor and businessman.

In 2013, the design and production rights to the M32 were acquired by Swedish company Aston Harald AB, led by keen sailor and businessman Håkan Svensson. After sponsoring a number of high profile yachting projects including the Green Dragon and Puma Volvo Ocean Race teams, Svensson was introduced to the M32 by close friend and Olympic Gold medallist Freddy Lööf in 2012.

M32 SCANDINAVIAN SERIES

Regional professional sailing series.

In 2013, the M32 Scandinavian Series was created for the growing number of M32 owners and teams. The Series includes regattas in Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland in close to shore venues.

EXPANSION OF THE SERIES

The expanding M32 owner base has encouraged the setup of one-design fleet racing in sailing hotspots around the world, all unique to their local market. From iconic yacht clubs in North America, city centre competitions in Scandinavia, picturesque locations in the Mediterranean.

• M32 Academy

The M32 Academy is an educational platform for high-performance and apparent wind sail racing. From getting kids onboard for the first time to fine tuning Olympic sailors and introducing the M32 to new owners with different sailing backgrounds. The M32 catamaran has proved itself as the perfect tool to excite, educate and entertain.

THE INTERNATIONAL CLASS ASSOCIATION

The M32 International Class Association was introduced to give our owners and sailors a voice. The association has representatives from the builder and from around the world to ensure that M32 World global targets are in line with what our owners, sailors and partners are searching for. The class association maintains the one-design integrity of the class throughout the world.

CHAMPIONSHIP

The inaugural M32 World Championship was held in Marstrand, Sweden where 15 boats took to the start line in what was an epic spectacle. Following the huge success of the 2017 event and as interest in the class continues to develop with an annual World Championship as the major event of the season.

Are you interested to join the most exciting sailing in the world or maybe just want to have a chat about the boat?

North America Dave Doucett   +1 413 364 0067 | [email protected]

Europe Mattias Dahlstrom   +46 708 406 335 | [email protected]

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• Tidewater 216 CC Adventure

21’ Tidewater 216 CC Adventure — Perfect for Fishing

Big fish features, dual livewells, large fish boxes, gunwale rod storage and large console with room for all your electronics make this a great boat.