Premium feel at mainstream money, with a hull that holds plane at ski-tow speeds.
The Chaparral 21 SSi is the model that convinces buyers a premium bowrider does not have to cost premium money. At 21 ft 10 in (6.65 m) it directly targets the Sea Ray SPX 210 and does so with a longer standard feature list.
The Extended V-Plane hull is the technical headline and it earns its keep. By carrying the running surface further aft, the boat gets onto the plane quickly and, crucially, stays on plane at low speed. For a family that spends the day towing a biscuit at 18 knots with kids aboard, that means less bow rise, better visibility and lower fuel burn.
Inside, the 21 SSi is generous. Flip-up helm and companion bolsters, a wide walkthrough, deep bow lounges with drainage, an in-floor ski locker and a transom bench that converts to an aft-facing lounge over the extended platform. The chiller and the wet storage locker are both bigger than the class average.
Stern drive power from MerCruiser or Volvo Penta in the 250-300 hp range gives a 40+ knot top end with the larger option and a relaxed 26-28 knot cruise. Owners who tow regularly appreciate that the boat trims flat easily and does not need constant tab adjustment.
On the used market the 21 SSi is a strong value proposition because Chaparral resale sits slightly below Sea Ray while build quality is very close. Check the engine hours against the age, look for corrosion at the transom shield, and verify that the snap-in carpet and covers are all present, since replacing them is genuinely expensive.
The world's best-selling bowrider size, in its most accessible form: light, simple and easy to tow.
US$38,000 - US$52,000 new
The refined mainstream benchmark: quiet, dry, and beautifully finished for the money.
US$72,000 - US$95,000 new
The quality yardstick of the class. Everything is heavier, quieter and better made.
US$155,000 - US$210,000 new