Used Boston Whaler Boats: Models, Prices & What to Look For
Boston Whaler is the premium name in American fishing boats, and its reputation rests on something literal: the hulls are filled with closed-cell foam and famously 'unsinkable' — the company built its legend by sawing a Whaler in half and driving both halves away. That construction, plus Mercury power and top-tier fit and finish, makes Whalers the boats other center consoles are measured against.
For used buyers the headline is resale: Whalers hold value better than almost anything afloat. You will rarely steal one — a 20-year-old Montauk still costs real money — but you also won't be the one absorbing steep depreciation, and a well-kept Whaler is one of the few boats that's genuinely easy to sell later.
What Boston Whaler is known for
- The foam-filled 'Unibond' hull — level flotation even swamped, and a stiff, quiet ride
- The Montauk — arguably the most recognizable small boat in America, and a used-market blue chip
- Premium resale value that outperforms nearly every other fiberglass brand
- Mercury-matched power and heavy-duty hardware built for salt water
Popular used Boston Whalermodels & prices
Montauk 170 / 190 (center console classics)
$12,000–$30,000 for classics; $30,000–$70,000 late-modelThe default recommendation for a first salt-capable boat: simple, stable, trailerable, and nearly indestructible. Classic 17-foot Montauks from the '80s–'90s remain sought-after.
Dauntless 210–270 (bay / dual-purpose)
$40,000–$150,000 usedThe do-everything Whaler: shallow enough for the flats, comfortable enough for family days. A favorite compromise for coastal owners with one boat slip.
Outrage 230–330 (offshore center consoles)
$70,000–$300,000+ usedThe serious offshore line — deep-V hulls, twin (or triple) outboards, and hardcore fishing layouts. Used Outrages are brokerage-class purchases; survey accordingly.
Super Sport 130–170 (entry runabouts)
$8,000–$30,000 usedThe starter Whalers — tiller-to-side-console boats that teach kids to drive and shrug off abuse. Strong resale makes them cheap boats to own.
Ranges are typical asking prices for privately sold and dealer-serviced boats in the U.S.; condition, engine hours, and refit quality move prices substantially.
Boston Whaler boats for sale now
2014 Boston Whaler 130 SS
Richland, MI
Center console
Gull Lake Marine
Nationwide Delivery Available
$17,999
View details
Dealer2023 Boston Whaler 240 VANTAGE
Placida, FL
Bowrider / deck boat · Good condition
Ingman Marine
Nationwide Delivery Available
$149,900
View detailsBuying a used Boston Whaler: what to check
- Check the transom and deck for soft spots anyway — 'unsinkable' doesn't mean water can't find its way into old screw holes and add weight over decades
- A saltwater Whaler is normal (that's their life), but look hard at the engine: outboard corrosion, powerhead history, and whether flushing was routine
- Repowered classics are common and often excellent buys — a 1990s Montauk with a recent Mercury four-stroke is the best of both eras; verify the rigging was done professionally
- Expect to pay more than book for clean examples — Whalers price above comparable brands, and that premium comes back at resale
Frequently asked questions
Are Boston Whalers really unsinkable?
The foam-cored hulls provide level flotation even when swamped — cut one in half and both halves float. It's a genuine safety margin, and a big reason families and first-time offshore owners pay the premium.
Why do used Whalers cost so much?
Resale strength. The hulls last, demand is constant, and the brand is the closest thing boating has to a blue chip. You pay more up front and recover more when you sell.
Is an old Montauk with a new engine a good buy?
Usually one of the best in boating. The hull is the timeless part; the engine is the consumable. A professional repower with a modern four-stroke resets the boat's mechanical clock.
Selling a Boston Whaler boat?
List it free on US Marine Connection and reach buyers nationwide — read our guide to selling your boat or start your listing.