Dreaming of sunny days on the water, but feeling overwhelmed by all the boat choices? You’re not alone! Many people want to enjoy the fun of boating without the hassle of a giant boat. That’s where smaller center console boats shine. They offer a sweet spot of fun, ease, and affordability, but picking the perfect one can still feel like navigating a maze. There are so many types, and it’s tough to know which one will be just right for your fishing trips or family outings.
If you’re looking for a boat that’s easy to handle, won’t break the bank, and still lets you explore the water, you’ve come to the right place. We’re diving deep into the world of center console boats that are under 22 feet long. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clearer idea of what makes these boats great, what to look for when you’re shopping, and how to find the one that fits your needs perfectly. Get ready to discover your next adventure buddy!
Our Top 5 Center Console Boats Under 22 Feet Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Center Console Boats Under 22 Feet Detailed Reviews
1. Solim Center Console Boat Cover
Rating: 9.4/10
Protect your center console boat with the Solim Center Console Boat Cover. This heavy-duty cover is built to last and keep your boat safe from the elements. It’s made from tough, waterproof material and designed to fit boats between 20 and 22 feet long.
What We Like:
- Super waterproof! The thick fabric and special seams stop water from getting in, keeping your boat dry.
- Really strong and durable. It’s made with 4 layers of tough material, including marine-grade oxford fabric, which protects against sun, rain, and dirt all year.
- Easy to secure. The cover has 18 straps with quick-release buckles. This makes it easy to put on and take off, and it stays put even in windy conditions.
- Fits great. The elastic hem gives your boat a snug fit, and it can handle consoles up to 54 inches high.
- Comes with everything you need. You get the cover, all 18 straps, and a handy storage bag.
- Solim offers great customer support. They have a 12-month warranty and 24-hour help if you have any questions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The maximum beam width is 106 inches. If your boat is wider than this, this cover won’t fit.
This Solim boat cover is a solid choice for protecting your investment. Its strong construction and excellent waterproofing offer peace of mind for any boat owner.
2. BOATPRO Waterproof Center Console Boat Cover 20-22ft
Rating: 8.5/10
Protect your prized vessel with the BOATPRO Waterproof Center Console Boat Cover. This heavy-duty cover is designed to keep your 20-22ft center console boat safe from the elements, whether it’s parked at home, on the trailer, or at the dock.
What We Like:
- Made from tough 1300D marine-grade polyester canvas that resists tearing and cracking, even in harsh weather.
- Features a 4-layer waterproof PU coating and sealed seams to keep your boat completely dry, handling up to 7500 Pa of water pressure.
- Offers excellent UPF 50++ sun protection, blocking up to 95% of harmful UV rays to prevent fading and damage.
- Includes strong, adjustable windproof buckle straps that easily reach your trailer and attach securely.
- Two rear air vents help reduce heat buildup and prevent wind stress on the cover, keeping things dry underneath.
- The universal fit works for boats 20-22ft long with a beam width up to 106 inches, with or without bow rails.
- Comes with a bonus storage bag that doubles as an outboard motor cover, saving you money and space.
- The straps are detachable and replaceable, meaning you don’t need a whole new cover if one gets damaged.
- Reinforced bow and stern areas add extra strength where it’s needed most.
- Includes a detailed guide for easy installation, even by one person.
- Comes with a 2-year warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While designed for a range of boats, some users might prefer more specific sizing options for a truly custom fit.
This BOATPRO cover offers robust protection and smart features to keep your boat in top condition. It’s a solid investment for any boat owner looking for reliable defense against sun, rain, and wind.
3. Seapisode Center Console Boat Cover
Rating: 8.6/10
Protect your prized boat with the Seapisode Center Console Boat Cover. This heavy-duty cover is built to last, keeping your vessel safe from the elements. Its strong construction and waterproof design offer peace of mind for boat owners.
What We Like:
- The 900D solution-dyed polyester fabric is super strong and won’t fade or tear, even in hot sun or heavy rain.
- It has tough metal buckles that are much better than plastic and won’t scratch your boat.
- Elastic cords in the hem make sure the cover fits snugly, so the wind can’t blow it away.
- Dual rear vents help stop moisture from building up inside, protecting your seats and boat parts.
- The cover is truly waterproof, with taped seams to stop any leaks. It can handle a lot of water pressure.
- It’s a universal fit for boats 22-24 feet long with a beam width up to 116 inches.
- Seapisode offers a 2-year warranty, which is great for your investment.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers a universal fit, some users might find it requires minor adjustments for a perfect custom fit on certain boat models.
- The “gray” color might be a common choice, but a wider variety of color options could appeal to more customers.
This Seapisode boat cover provides excellent protection and durability. It’s a smart choice for safeguarding your boat.
4. RVMasking Upgraded 1200D T-Top Boat Cover 100% Waterproof Heavy Duty Tear-Resistant Polyester with Motor Cover for Center Console Boat with T TOP Roof
Rating: 9.4/10
Protect your prized vessel with the RVMasking Upgraded 1200D T-Top Boat Cover. This heavy-duty cover offers robust, all-weather protection for center console boats with T-Top roofs, measuring 22-24 feet long with a beam width up to 116 inches. Its impressive waterproof and tear-resistant features ensure your boat stays safe from the elements, whether docked or trailering.
What We Like:
- The 1200D fabric on top and 600D marine-grade fabric on the bottom provide excellent durability and water resistance.
- It features an anti-UV coating and PU waterproof backing for complete protection against sun and rain.
- The cover offers a snug fit thanks to a quick-release buckle and strap system, plus an all-around elastic hem.
- Built-in air vents help prevent moisture buildup underneath.
- A convenient zipper closure makes getting in and out of the boat easy.
- Reinforced corners and double stitching add extra strength in high-stress areas.
- It comes with a separate motor cover and plenty of straps for secure fastening.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cover is recommended for trailering speeds under 35MPH, which might be a limitation for some users.
- Users need to carefully measure their boat before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
This RVMasking T-Top boat cover is a solid investment for keeping your boat in top condition. Its thoughtful design and durable materials offer peace of mind against harsh weather.
5. Fuprosico Center Console Boat Cover 20-22ft Waterproof 1200D Boat Cover Center Console Heavy Duty Center Console Boat Covers for Center Console Boat 20ft 21ft 22ft
Rating: 8.6/10
Protect your prized vessel with the Fuprosico Center Console Boat Cover. This heavy-duty, waterproof cover is built to last and keep your boat safe from the elements. It fits 20-22 foot center console boats and is made from tough 1200D marine-grade polyester canvas. The gray color looks sharp and blends well with most boat aesthetics.
What We Like:
- Super Strong Material: It’s made from 1200D marine-grade polyester canvas, which is much stronger and thicker than other covers. It even passed a tough strength test!
- Extra Protection: The bow and tail areas are reinforced to prevent tears where they get the most wear. It also has 45% better UV resistance to stop it from getting old and falling apart in the sun.
- Really Waterproof: The cover has three layers of waterproof coating that can handle a lot of water pressure. All the seams are double-stitched, and there’s special tape inside to stop any leaks.
- Stays Put in Wind: It comes with strong straps and buckles, plus an elastic cord all around the bottom. This helps it fit snugly and not blow away in the wind.
- Keeps the Boat Dry Inside: Two vents on the tail let air move, so moisture doesn’t build up inside the cover. This keeps your boat dry and prevents mold.
- Bonus Storage Bag: You get a big waterproof bag to store the cover. It can even be used as a motor cover, which is a great two-in-one feature!
- Designed for Your Boat: It’s made for V-hull center console boats that are 17-19 feet long and up to 102 inches wide, especially those without high bow rails.
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific Fit: While it fits 20-22ft boats, it’s specifically designed for V-hull center consoles with low or no bow rails. Boats with different designs might not get the perfect fit.
- Availability of Other Sizes: The description mentions a range of boat covers, but this specific model is for 20-22ft boats. If you have a different size, you’ll need to look for another option.
This Fuprosico boat cover offers excellent protection and durability for your center console boat. It’s a smart investment to keep your boat looking great and protected from the weather.
Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Center Console Boat Under 22 Feet
Center console boats are super popular for a reason! They’re versatile, easy to handle, and great for all sorts of fun on the water. If you’re looking for a boat that’s under 22 feet, you’re in luck! These smaller center consoles pack a punch and are perfect for families, fishing trips, or just cruising around your favorite lake or bay.
Why a Center Console?
The “center console” is the steering station. It sits in the middle of the boat. This design gives you 360-degree access around the boat. That means you can easily walk around to cast a fishing line, tie up to a dock, or just enjoy the view from every angle. They’re usually open in the front, making them great for carrying gear or having plenty of space to relax.
Key Features to Look For
Storage Space
Boats, no matter the size, need storage! Look for boats with plenty of compartments for life jackets, fishing gear, snacks, and anything else you need for a day on the water. Under-seat storage and built-in coolers are big pluses.
Seating
Even though these boats are smaller, good seating is important. Check out the number of comfortable seats. Some boats have padded seats, backrests, and even leaning posts that are comfortable for longer trips.
Livewell
If you love fishing, a livewell is a must! This is a special tank that keeps your bait fish alive and healthy. It usually has a water circulation system.
Rod Holders
Another great feature for anglers! Built-in rod holders keep your fishing rods secure and out of the way when you’re not using them.
Bimini Top
A Bimini top is like a small awning that gives you shade. It makes a big difference on sunny days and helps you stay cool.
Navigation and Electronics
Even on smaller boats, good electronics are helpful. Look for a fishfinder or GPS if you plan to explore or fish in unfamiliar waters. Simple gauges for speed and fuel are also important.
Important Materials
Most boats in this size range are made with fiberglass. Fiberglass is strong and durable. It also holds up well against saltwater and the sun. Some boats might use a combination of fiberglass and other materials for different parts. The seats are often made with marine-grade vinyl, which is designed to resist water and UV rays.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built boat feels solid. When you walk on it, it shouldn’t flex or creak too much. Look at how the different parts are put together. Are the seams smooth? Are the fittings secure? A boat that’s built with care will last longer and be safer.
Hull Design
The hull is the bottom part of the boat. A good hull design helps the boat ride smoothly through waves. It also affects how stable the boat is. Some hulls are designed to cut through chop better, while others are made for stability at rest.
Engine Performance
The engine is key! Make sure it has enough power for the size of the boat and what you plan to do. A good engine will get you to your destination quickly and efficiently. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for engine size.
Fit and Finish
This refers to the small details. Are the hinges on the storage compartments sturdy? Are the cushions well-stitched? Are there any rough edges? Good fit and finish show attention to detail and contribute to the overall quality and enjoyment of the boat.
User Experience and Use Cases
Boats under 22 feet are fantastic for a variety of activities. They’re easy to tow behind most vehicles and can be launched and retrieved without a lot of hassle.
Fishing Trips
These boats are ideal for inshore fishing, casting for bass on a lake, or heading out to a nearby reef. The open deck space and easy access make it simple to reel in a catch.
Family Cruising
Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely cruise around a lake or along the coast. The open layout allows everyone to spread out and enjoy the scenery.
Watersports Towing
With the right engine, some of these smaller center consoles can even tow tubes or wakeboards for some water fun.
Island Hopping and Exploring
If you live near islands or have a favorite cove to explore, a boat this size is perfect for reaching those spots.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main advantage of a center console boat?
A: The main advantage is the 360-degree access around the steering station, making it easy to move around the boat.
Q: Are boats under 22 feet good for fishing?
A: Yes, they are excellent for inshore and nearshore fishing, offering plenty of space for gear and casting.
Q: How much maintenance do these boats typically need?
A: Like any boat, they need regular cleaning, engine checks, and occasional hull maintenance. Saltwater use requires extra rinsing.
Q: Can I tow a tube or skier behind a 20-foot center console?
A: It depends on the engine size and the weight of the person being towed. Many can handle light tubing.
Q: Are center consoles stable on the water?
A: Generally, yes, especially when at rest. Hull design plays a big role in stability while moving.
Q: What kind of trailer is best for a boat under 22 feet?
A: A good quality boat trailer with rollers or bunks that properly supports the hull is essential.
Q: How many people can comfortably fit on a 20-foot center console?
A: This varies by boat, but typically 4-6 people can comfortably fit, depending on the activities.
Q: Is a Bimini top essential for a center console?
A: It’s not essential, but highly recommended for sun protection and comfort on sunny days.
Q: What kind of engine is usually on these boats?
A: Most use outboard engines, which are mounted on the back of the boat.
Q: Are these boats good for beginners?
A: Yes, their size and maneuverability often make them a great choice for new boat owners.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
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