If you look into the different descriptions and options of sportfishing boats, you will see many different definitions. Most people will agree that there will be some compromise between features and luxury no matter which boat you choose. However, there are two styles that come pretty close to appealing to both the angler and yacht enthusiast: the express boat and walkaround style. Get to know these two styles and talk to your yacht broker before you make your important decision to buy.
Express Boat
An express boat is generally larger than a walkaround style although there can be an overlap in size at times. Typically, an express sportfisherman is classified as larger than 35 feet. The increased size gives it an advantage in comfort – you can have more on-deck seating and more space in the living quarters below. Your bridge deck areas have extra room to lounge and relax and your interior volume can entertain more guests. It will also be comfortable on longer fishing trips and the treks between port. Because of the size, keep in mind that you may require a larger crew to maintain the vessel.
Walk Around
If you’re thinking you want a more fishing oriented vessel then a walkaround might be your better option. Walkarounds feature 360 degrees of fishability. The boat earns its classification from the unobstructed path from transom to bow. The walkaround style offers more stability and safety for anglers due to the location between the gunwales and hull. This pathway takes up space typically allocated for salon and cabin room. Previously walkaround boats were classified as smaller than express sportfishermans ranging from 20 to 30 feet with one or two outboard or inboard motors. Today, builders like Jim Smith, Garlington, Gamefisherman, and Release have engineered larger walkaround vessels ranging from 40-60 feet.
Featured Jim Smith Walkaround Boats
These days, sportfishing yachts don’t have to sacrifice comfort for fishability. We featured two walkarounds at the Palm Beach International Boat Show that have found the sweet spot between the features of an express and a walkaround.
The 60-foot Dona Re from Jim Smith has all the amenities of a luxury yacht built for fishing. In the air-conditioned bridge, there’s storage for 8 rods with a custom freezer and a full rigging station. Below deck, you’ll find two gorgeous staterooms and a galley with custom stone countertops, satin finished teak, and holly floors. Contact the listing agent Jamie MacGregor at (561) 762-5492 for more information or to schedule a showing.
The Sapelo, also built by Jim Smith, features quad outboard 350 Mercury Verados to get this beautiful vessel moving. The stateroom has twin side-by-side berths with plenty of storage and rich teak cabinets and trim. For the angler, the Sapelo is loaded with fishing equipment: Rupp Topgun Z-30 18’ Outriggers, bait prep center and storage cabinet in the cockpit, and 10 rod holders between the cockpit and foredeck. Contact Robert Biber at (772) 233-1004 to schedule a showing on this beautiful boat.
Find Your Dream With MacGregor Yachts
The Dona Re and Sapelo are only two of the beautiful custom yachts that are listed with MacGregor Yachts. Our #1 priority is to make finding your dream boat easy and enjoyable. Contact us today online or call at (561) 799-6511.
