If you're shopping for boats under $26k, you're in a sweet spot. You can get a brand-new 2026 model that's easy to tow, simple to run, and ready for real days on the water.
Below is a list of 2026 budget-friendly boats with a starting price of $26,000 or less. Final numbers vary by dealer, taxes, options, and more. So, treat this list as a starting point.
What Do You Get For Under $26k In 2026?
In this price point, value usually comes from smaller, simpler models with proven layouts. You'll see:
- Compact deck boats and bowriders for cruising and swimming
- Pontoon boat models with smart seating and easy comfort
- Fishing-ready packages, especially in the aluminum fishing boat category.
- Small skiffs that fit a "bay boat" or nearshore style day, with the basics done right
Best Boats Under $26k For 2026: 10 Picks Worth A Look
Each pick below focuses on practical features that matter when buying a boat for the first time.
- Bayliner Element M15
- Tahoe T16
- Sun Tracker Party Barge 16 DLX
- Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 XL Select
- Tracker Bass Tracker Classic XL
- Tracker Pro Team 175
- Tracker Pro Guide V-16 SC
- Tracker Grizzly 1754 SC
- MAKO Pro Skiff 15 CC
- Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport
1. Bayliner Element M15
Want a simple deck boat under $26,000? Try the Bayliner Element M15 listed at only $17,915 MSRP on the model page.
Why it's an excellent entry-level boat:
- Manageable size for trailering and storage
- Social cockpit seating for quick family cruises
- Add-on friendly for shade, sound, and comfort upgrades over time
Good fit for: family-friendly lake days, swimming breaks, and short cruises.
2. Tahoe T16
Looking for a bowrider that fits boats under $26k? Check out the Tahoe T16. Tahoe shows a base price of $23,595 (+prep and freight) on their 2026 page.
Why it's popular:
- Classic bow seating for kids, coolers, and gear
- A straightforward layout for cruising and light tow sports
- A strong "first boat" feel without complicated systems
Good fit for: families that want a traditional runabout for weekends.
3. Sun Tracker Party Barge 16 DLX
Need a family-friendly pontoon boat under $26,000? Start with the 16 DLX. Sun Tracker lists a 2026 base price of $20,595 (+prep and freight). Price Excludes Optional Trailer.
Why it's one of the best boats under $26k for groups:
- Lounge-forward deck layout that's easy to use
- Stable feel, plus wide beams that help people move around comfortably
- Great for float days, swim stops, and simple cruising
Good fit for: relaxed lake life, bigger crews, and easy entertaining.
4. Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 XL Select
Want a fishing pontoon that can still do family days? Look at the Bass Buggy 16 XL Select. Sun Tracker lists a 2026 base price of $19,795 (+prep and freight). Price Excludes Optional Trailer.
Why it's a smart mixed-use choice:
- Fishing-friendly layout with space for passengers
- Easy platform for kids, pets, and gear
- A good bridge between cruising comfort and casting time
Good fit for: families where someone always wants to fish.
5. Tracker Bass Tracker Classic XL
Shopping for affordable boats in 2026 that anglers can use right away? The Tracker Bass Tracker Classic XL is hard to beat. Tracker lists a 2026 base price of $16,995 and includes gear like a Minn Kota Edge trolling motor and a Garmin fishfinder.
Why it's a value-packed fishing package:
- Designed as a practical aluminum fishing boat
- Built for frequent trips and simple maintenance
- Functional rod storage and a fishing-first layout
Good fit for: weekend anglers who want a ready-to-go bundle.
6. Tracker Pro Team 175
Want more room without leaving boats under $26,000? Step up to the Pro Team 175. Tracker lists a 2026 base price of $24,595 (+prep and freight).
Why it's a strong "grow with you" pick:
- More deck space for casting and moving around
- A practical layout for electronics upgrades later
- Great for long afternoons on the lake
Good fit for: anglers who want space now and flexibility later.
7. Tracker Pro Guide V-16 SC
Need a small, deep-V for bigger lakes and open-water conditions? Consider the Pro Guide V-16 SC. Tracker lists a 2026 base price of $21,995 (+prep and freight).
Why it stands out:
- Deep-V style hull is a better match for chop than many flat-bottom boats
- Built for casting, trolling, and cruising
- Helpful option for bigger lakes and more variable conditions
Good fit for: anglers who fish larger bodies of water and want extra confidence on rougher days.
8. Tracker Grizzly 1754 SC
Want a utility rig under $26k that can fish, explore, and haul gear? The Grizzly 1754 SC fits. TRACKER lists a 2026 base price of $19,995 (+prep and freight).
Why it's useful:
- Simple platform that's easy to customize
- A solid match for a bow-mount trolling motor
- Great for shallow areas, backwaters, and gear-heavy days
Good fit for: owners who want a tough, adaptable setup.
9. MAKO Pro Skiff 15 CC
Want a center console under $26,000 for bays, sandbars, and simple fishing? Look at the MAKO Pro Skiff 15 CC. MAKO lists base price at $23,595 (+prep and freight).
Why it's a clean, practical pick:
- Easy washdown and low-fuss ownership
- Great layout for a "bay boat" style day in protected water
- Simple deck for casting, beaching, and quick trips
Good fit for: inshore-style boating, lakes, and nearshore cruising on calmer days.
10. Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport
Can a Boston Whaler fit the best boats under $26k list? Sometimes, yes. The Boston Whaler's configurator shows a 2026 Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport starting price of $22,981+. Pricing changes with configuration options.
Why it's worth checking out:
- Small footprint with a premium build reputation
- Shallow-drafting fun for short cruises and light fishing
- Handy for swim days
Good fit for: buyers who want a compact premium option and plan to keep it simple.
Editor's Note: Pricing is accurate as of the last date of publication, January 2026. Please contact the boat manufacturer or your local boat dealer directly for the most up-to-date pricing.
How To Keep A New Boat Under $26k With Options
A few budget-saving moves can make a real difference. Ask what's included, prioritize comfort basics first, and add upgrades later. Find your perfect boat with Discover Boating's boat finder tool.
New Boats For 2026 Under $26k FAQs
Q: What are the best new boats under $26,000 in 2026?
A: If you want a well-rounded list of the best boats under $26k, start with the boats in this article. We also suggest visiting the Boat Finder to browse further.
Q: What's the best family boat under $26k this year?
A: For most crews, a compact pontoon wins on comfort and space. Boats like the Sun Tracker Party Barge 16 DLX bring an easy, lounge-forward setup that's hard to beat for family-friendly cruising.
Q: Can I buy a quality fishing (or family) boat for under $26,000?
A: Yes. This budget range has many options. For fishing, boats like the Tracker Classic XL are priced to leave room for basics like tackle, life jackets, and a good battery setup. For family days, a compact pontoon or starter deck boat keeps things simple, comfortable, and easy to use.
