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Bayliner is a name known well in boating circles for more than 60 years. They are the #1 recreational boat manufacturer in the world, in operation since 1957.
The VR6 Bowrider is a Bayliner staple. Their specialty – in fact, the only type of vessel they produce – is the runabout in the 16 to 26 feet category. Their Bowrider boat stays right in that lane with 5 models offered from smaller to bigger:
- the 160
- the 170
- the VR4
- the VR5
- the VR6
Though each Bayliner Bowrider model is sized and equipped differently they are all well-outfitted and water-ready. Each is designed to provide maximum comfort and space, while also taking advantage of the whole area inside the boat. The advantage of the Bayliner VR6 Bowrider? It’s the Big Papa.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
-
Great standard model, super upgrades offered -
Comfortable seating is a top design element
-
Offered in both sport and fishing models
Things we don't like:
Nice layout, but areas feel a bit over-filled- Platform is functional, but awkward
Nice layout, but areas feel a bit over-filledWhere to buy:
Specs & Features
- Length: 22’ 7”
- Beam: 8’ 0”
- Maximum occupants: 10 persons
- Maximum occupants weight: 1700 lbs.
- Total vessel dry weight: 3797 lbs.
- Maximum horsepower (OB): 200 hp
- Maximum horsepower (I/O): 250 hp
- Deadrise: 20”
- Draft down: 34”
- Fuel capacity: 33 gallons
- Storage length on trailer: 25’
The Boat Above the Fray
What does Bayliner make that actually sets them apart? Well, their standard VR6 Bowrider comes stacked and in a cornucopia of colors from which to choose.
Out-of-the-gate Bayliner ups the ante by offering engine variations starting from the top, down. You choose between a big 200 hp MerCruiser Fourstroke OB, or a bigger 250 hp MerCruiser Sterndrive I/O, the maximum these boats can handle.
It is worth noting when considering a purchase that the Bayliner VR6 Bowrider transom can only handle a 200 hp engine. If you want to reach this boat’s full potential you’ll want to go with the 250 I/O.
Bayliner is a safety-conscious manufacturer. The VR6 comes with plenty of cleats to tie off, all the navigation lights a boat should have, a bilge pump and a self-bailing cockpit – it even has a stainless steel tow ring.
The amenities inside the Bayliner VR6 are noteworthy. Enjoy tunes on a waterproof, Bluetooth radio pumping out of 6 speakers. As mentioned, the seating is spectacular. There’s a cooler to hold nourishment, the steering tilts and the multi-function gauges are fog resistant.
Bayliner does offer a long list of upgrades for the VR6 Bowrider. With everything this boat already offers you may be left asking yourself, “Do I really need the stainless package?” Then again, with a modest starting price of $47,955.00, there’s room to upgrade. Comparative models will start in the middle 50s.
Performance
You may be wondering where this boat starts to lose its luster. Not on the water.
The combination of high gunnels, a modified V-hull and great weight distribution make the VR6 Bowrider a smooth operating vessel. It sits low in the water for better stability and the cockpit is designed to give the captain complete and unhindered access to all of the boat’s instruments.
Every boat enthusiast is thinking, “ there’s more to performance than speed and control.” True. Bayliner rises to the occasion by offering a sport package for ski and wakeboard enthusiasts, as well as a fishing package for those who are going to need a live well and rod holders.
When you take the family or a fishing pal on the water with a Bayliner VR6 Bowrider, you’re assured of its control and precision. Everyone can relax comfortably and enjoy the trip from the moment you leave the dock until you return to the trailer.
Stowed and Secure
With everything the Bayliner VR6 Bowrider already offers, you’re thinking storage is where the company bails. Not so. In fact, Bayliner’s methods of construction (BeamForward, high gunnels) contribute to bigger compartments.
They hit all the bases in this boat with storage under seats and in-floor for equipment, a lockable changing room and storage compartment port side and optional rack mounts for wakeboards. The VR6 even has a glovebox and 5 cup holders.
here is one modification that might be extremely beneficial. The changing room can be outfitted as a head which means no return trips to the launch for “breaks” and more time to play!
Cut to the Chase
When you purchase a VR6 Bowrider you are buying dependable and trustworthy, there’s little doubt. The Bayliner name is synonymous with boating and it shows as their products are exceptional.
If there is one thing critical worth pointing out about the VR6 it must be the interior layout.
Related Reviews
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
-
Great standard model, super upgrades offered
-
Comfortable seating is a top design element
-
Offered in both sport and fishing models
Things we don't like:
- Nice layout, but areas feel a bit over-filled
- Platform is functional, but awkward
Frequently asked questions
Bayliner boats are owned by Brunswick Corp., the largest manufacturer of recreational vessels. Bayliners are made in Tennessee and Washington for the American market. There is a plant in Mexico for South American customers and one in Portugal to serve the Europeans.
Newer Bayliners have been constructed with improved manufacturing oversight. While still on the lower end of bowrider boats, Bayliner has overcome previous problems with quality to establish a repuation for good value.
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