5 Big-Value Budget Boats in 2026

There are plenty of value-driven budget boats available in 2026. While the selection can be overwhelming, we believe that’s part of the fun. 

From smaller boats with basic features to fishing vessels with great on-board technology - whatever your intended on-water recreation, our guide to 5 Big Value Budget Boats is sure to start you in the right direction. 

To find the right model for you, consider shopping early, late in the season, or exploring well-maintained used models. By pre-determining the key use for your vessel, you'll have a leg up when it comes to finding the right model for you.

From fishing and cruising, to watersports and overnight stays, our guide to 5 Big Value Budget Boats in 2026 will analyse the Quintrex 430 Fishabout, Savage 485 Beach Comber, Gulf Runner 510 Bowrider, Stacer 519 Wildrider, and Quintrex 520 Cruiseabout. 

Keep scrolling for all the specs, or get a snapshot by viewing our quick comparison table.

Quintrex 430 Fishabout | Starting at $34,000 AUD

This is one of Australia’s favourite budget runabouts. The Quintrex 430 Fishabout is a popular entry-level option for beginners, family days, sheltered water cruising and much more. We love Quintrex boats for their build quality and durability. The Fishabout’s Blade hull design is a major factor for its inclusion on our big value budget boat list, offering a stable and predictable ride with good dryness and comfort for its size. This vessel can handle many types of water activities, from fishing and cruising, to light watersports with some mates. The open deck space offers a comfortable area for passengers, inclusive of plenty of room for storing gear. The 430 Fishabout is remarkably roomy for its length, and is a proven performer in Aussie conditions.

Key Specs

Savage 485 Beach Comber | Starting at $30,000 AUD

A budget-friendly aluminium bowrider, the Savage 485 Beach Comber is perfect for family boating, cruising, and fishing usages. There is more seating and social space on this vessel compared to open runabouts, adding increased comfort for passengers. The layout of the Savage 485 is focused on a perfect mix of usability and comfort, including pedestal seats, fold-down lounges, a windscreen, and bow seating. We recommend this model for those looking for a prime social option for longer days on the water. Powered up to 90 hp, the 485 is nimble and quite economical to run, while maintaining its strength for casual watersports and offshore cruising in calm conditions.

Key Specs

Gulf Runner 510 Bowrider | Starting at $53,000 AUD

A strong contender for boaties wanting a ready-to-go boat, inclusive of a motor and trailer. This runabout is sold primarily through Anaconda stores in Australia and represents one of the most competitively-priced bowrider packages available - so how could we leave it off our big value budget boat list? 

The Gulf Runner 510 comes as a complete boat package. The package generally includes a Yamaha 90 hp outboard and Dunbier trailer at an aggressive price compared to other bowriders. This vessel has been designed to be multifunctional with comfortable seating for up to six people plus under-bench storage, and ample room for gear.

Key Specs

Stacer 519 Wildrider | Starting at $52,000 AUD

A popular budget to mid-range bowrider in Australia, Stacer’s 519 Wild Rider balances a roomy design with great performance and capability. Its larger hull offers ample capacity for bigger groups and longer days on the water. We put the Wild Rider on our list for its suitability as an all-rounder boat. This vessel is large enough for extended trips, and offers great stability for fishing and watersports. Like other Stacer models, the Wild Rider is built with a Revolution hull which offers greater ride comfort and performance for a boat of its size. Practical touches on board include an underfloor fuel tank, bimini top, rod holders, and underfloor storage.

Key Specs

Quintrex 520 Cruiseabout | Starting at $61,000 AUD

The largest and most capable of all 5 big value budget models in this guide - The Quintrex 520 Cruiseabout presents a roomy layout with strong performance. Its sturdy build adds to Quintrex’s reputation for quality riding, a characteristic carried across its entire range. Boaties looking for multi-purpose boating for watersports, cruising, fishing and more will find a lot to like in the 520 Cruiseabout. Benefit from a spacious bow seating area, walk-through windscreen, and large rear lounge for groups and longer days on the water. The variable-deadrise hull also gives much more comfortable handling in choppy conditions compared to many other similar models, a big plus for tackling Aussie water environments.

Key Specs

Find the Right Boat For Your Preferred Use

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DISCLAIMER: NO LIABILITY IS ACCEPTED IF ERRORS OR MISREPRESENTATIONS ARE FOUND IN THIS ARTICLE. THE ARTICLE IS PREPARED AND PRESENTED FOR GENERAL INFORMATIVE PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE THE SOLE SOURCE OF INFORMATION FOR MAKING FINANCIAL DECISIONS. THOSE REQUIRING GUIDANCE AND ADVICE SHOULD CONSULT A FINANCIAL ADVISOR.