Affordable alloy bowrider that handles ramps, oyster racks and kids equally well.
The Stacer 539 Outlaw Bowrider is a value-focused aluminium family boat with a fishing streak. At 5.39 m (17 ft 8 in), it is deliberately kept light so it tows behind a mid-size vehicle and launches solo without drama.
The EVO Advance hull sharpens the entry compared with older pressed alloy Stacers, and while it will never ride like a heavy fibreglass deep-V, it is composed in a moderate chop and remarkably dry for its size.
Bow lounges are padded and hinged over dry storage, the walkthrough is wide enough for an adult, and the rear lounge lifts out entirely to expose a flat rear casting area with side pockets. That fishing conversion takes minutes and needs no tools.
A 90 hp to 115 hp four-stroke outboard is the normal rig. Fuel burn is modest, around 15-20 litres per hour at a 22 knot cruise, and the light hull means even the 90 hp option will tow a biscuit with kids aboard.
The 539 makes most sense for owners who want one boat to do school-holiday cruising and weekend fishing without a big purchase price. Inspect welds, check for stress cracking around the console mounts on hard-used boats, and budget for a good cover, since alloy boats left open collect water fast.
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