Mainship Motor Yachts (BEST STYLE)
Coming to age during the 1970’s Fuel Crisis, these motor yachts combined diesel engine efficiency with a sleek exterior and a luxurious interior. With the design changing very little from year-to-year, cruise in reliable style without breaking the bank.
- Used models from the 70’s 80’s & 90’s range from $8,000 – $30,000
- Inboard engines (gasoline and diesel options)
- 35 to 41 feet in length
- Single/double cabins
- Optional grand salon
Catalinas (BEST PRICE)
As one of the most successfully produced sailing boats in history, the Catalina 30 series of boats packs a big punch in a small space. The 80’s and 90’s produced designs that have changed very little over the years. These dependable sailboats with outboard diesel engines are just right for cruising narrow channels and accessing smaller slip fees, all while containing sleeping quarters and other overnight accommodations.
- Used models from the 70’s 80’s, & 90’s range from $2,000 – $16,000
- Outboard or inboard engines (gasoline and diesel options)
- 8 to 47 feet in length
- Single cabins
- Aluminum mast & boom
Carver Yachts (MOST LUXURIOUS)
With some of the most detailed and luxurious interiors of cruiser style boats on the market, these yachts make for an excellent live aboard option in conjunction with longer thru-trips. As the leading fiberglass yacht builder in the 1980’s and 1990’s, these yachts have a huge place on the used market and can provide some of the best quality for your buck.
- Used models from the 70’s, 80’s & 90’s range from $10,000 – $60,000
- Outboard & stern engines (gasoline and diesel options)
- 26 to 42 feet in length
- Air-conditioned aft cabin
- Fiberglass hull
Golden Star Yachts (BEST QUALITY)
Started in the 1980’s, Golden Star Yachts have maintained the timeless features of a trawler and have some of the lowest depreciation of any of the boats mentioned. Ample headroom and meticulously placed amenities make this boat a true joy to take on a trip. One of the pricier secondhand options but worth every penny.
- Used models from the 80’s & 90’s range from $40,000 – $90,000
- Twin diesel engines
- 36 to 40 feet in length
- Aft cabins & sundecks
- Diesel furnace option
DeFever Yachts (BEST ENGINE)
Offering a distinctive profile and designed specifically for long haul trips, DeFever Yachts offer all of the bells and whistles of cruising in style. Easily the most expensive used option on this list but you get what you pay for, including a standard twin 300-400 HP engine built to run. This is an ideal boat for cruising upriver.
- Used models from the 80’s & 90’s range from $40,000 – $90,000
- 300-400 HP Engines
- 36 to 60 feet in length
- Full galley, 2 bathrooms, 2-3 bedrooms
- Fore and aft staterooms
Holiday Mansions (MOST PRACTICAL)
Started in 1965, Holiday Mansion produced quality, coast guard approved boats until 1997. These boats tend to be a no-frills option to the houseboat category with practicability built in mind. A spacious galley and cockpit area mirror an open sundeck on the stern and roof. The most boat for the least money, these boats make for an excellent live aboard and extended cruising vessel.
- Used models from the 80’s & 90’s range from $10,000 – $30,000
- One and two engine options
- 36 to 56 feet in length
- Full galley, tub/shower, 2 bedrooms & closed/open cockpits
- Air-conditioned
