Canadian Boating’s 2024 Gallery of New Boats

Our editors select 22 of the most exciting new boats!

So… got a boat, or are you planning your first? Maybe you have a boat, but you want something different, (bigger, smaller, power or sail, pontoon or PWC). The Canadian Boating magazine editorial team has been busy this past year travelling to new boat introductions, press events and particularly the big boat shows in Florida where we have gotten a first-hand look at some really exciting new boats at their large media introductions.

In preparation for our own boat show season here in Canada, we bring you this selection of what we think are the most exciting boats for 2024. We have something for everyone!

AXOPAR 45 Sun Top and Cross Top Models

Two new Axopar models premiered at Cannes this year. The Axopar 45 in either the Cross Top or the Sun Top configuration joins the 45 XC Cross Cabin model on Axopar’s largest hull. With surprising cabin accommodations, Axopar has designed their 45’ models to be true “go-anywhere” boats with top speeds above 45 knots; fast cruising and yet good fuel economy for a 45-footer. The Axopar 45 Cross Top is a commuter/day boat with an inverted windshield while the Sun Top has a raked back windshield that is open. Modular interior options include an aft sofa, a u-shaped sofa or an aft cabin with a sundeck roof.

Axopar 45 Sun Top | 45’7” / 13.90m | 13’6” / 4.11m | 14,330 / 6,500kg | Base price 404,900 Euros | www.axopar.com

Axopar 45 Sun Top

BENETEAU Antares 12

Beneteau has created a handsome contemporary yacht with the traditional virtues of a spacious flying bridge layout with a bridge overhang that also shades the cockpit. The glass aft bulkhead and big side glass with a starboard side door by the lower helm gives the Antares 12 great flow and several separate living areas including the foredeck sun lounges. The Antares is a three-cabin, two-head yacht. With triple outboards and features like the boarding door on the starboard side as well as a balcony section that greatly extends the cockpit space, the Antares 12 is richly equipped.

Beneteau Antares 12 | 42’7″ / 12.06m | 12’5″ / 3.66m | 20,081 / 9,562kg | Base price $748,000 USD | www.beneteau.com

Beneteau Antares 12

BENNINGTON 23L Bowrider

Bennington has introduced their L Bowrider model, which has a noticeable difference from other pontoon models – the floor in the bow is a step-down design that gives a more sporty, low-profile exterior with improved visibility for the driver. It also reduces the wind exposure for people seated up front and has a more secure feeling for passengers. It’s a significant difference! We drove a new Bennington 23L Bowrider and we were impressed with the V-Hull Performance Package that delivered a soft, stable ride with great performance from the Yamaha V-Max engine.

Bennington 23′ L Series Bowrider Swing Back | 27’1.5” / 8.23m | 8’5” / 2.44m | www.benningtonmarine.com

Bennington 23L Bowrider

BOSTON WHALER 280 Vantage

The 280 Vantage is a dual console design with a full centre walkthrough windshield. This gives protection on the sides and the walkthrough has a wind dam. The 280 Vantage is well suited to life in Canada. While the Boston Whaler 280 Vantage has a host of serious fishing features, it also has a really spacious bow area with an available front boarding ladder for beaching, an anchor locker, removable cooler and very comfortable seating. The helm is impressive and the 280 Vantage has a portside dive door and options like a hardtop, SureShade and summer kitchen.

Boston Whaler 280 | 27’9” / 8.46m | 9’1” / 2.77m | 6,940 / 3,148kg | $297,000 USD | www.bostonwhaler.com

Boston Whaler 280 Vantage

CAPOFORTE Yacht, CA-FX270 

The firstborn of the Capoforte FX series is for sporty boaters. Equipped with outboards, its hull offers great performance and safety, even in rough seas. It’s a boat marrying action with luxury, thanks to refined colour selections, materials and shapes making a real entertaining area on the sea. It’s for these reasons that the FX 270 offers a “leisure” or “fishing” version. The bow, ideal for fishing, can be equipped with an additional sofa to create a dinette. The helm, high and well-protected, is integrated with the console and the main windshield structure. Below deck is a dressing room with head.

CAPOFORTE Yacht, CA-FX270 | 26’6″ / 8.10m | 8’10” / 2.70m | Starting at $255,000 CAN | www.marine-sca.com

Capoforte Yacht CA-FX270

CRUISERS YACHTS Cantius 55 Fly

After celebrating their 70th Anniversary in 2023, Cruisers Yachts is proud to announce their all-new, groundbreaking Flybridge series, an evolution of the popular Cantius series. The 55 Fly features an interior created in collaboration with renowned superyacht designer Luiz Debasto of Debasto Designs.

Mark Pederson, President of Cruisers Yachts, comments, “This extraordinary series will propel the Cruisers Yachts brand into the future, helping to set a new standard in design, performance, and luxury.” More details are to come on the 55 Fly with the official launch in spring 2024.

Cruisers Yachts Cantius 55 Fly | 55’6” / 16.76m | 16’5″ / 4.87m | Prices and specifications Spring of 2024 | www.cruisersyachts.com/

Cruisers Yachts Cantius 55 Fly

FIM Yacht, FIM-340 RE-OB

Extremely versatile, the FIM 340 Regina adapts to the personality of the owners who want to combine the elegance of a contemporary yacht with the gritty sailing experience typical of an open sport boat. The ergonomic console with all the equipment at your fingertips makes piloting the yacht simple, safe and dynamic. The hull is designed to achieve a low-speed glide, reducing fuel consumption and environmental impact, while also providing high performance. The cockpit includes an optional galley and table with comfortable seating and a chaise longue, which converts into a stern sundeck. The bow sundeck is ideal for relaxation.

FIM Yacht, FIM-340 RE-OB | 34’2″ / 10.40m | 9’9″ / 2.99m | Starting at $550,000 CAN | www.marine-sca.com

FIM Yacht, FIM-340 RE-OB

FOUR WINNS H2 e

Last year it was a dream, this year it is in the shows and ready to go – Four Winns H2 e is packaged with a Vision Marine Technologies 180E electric outboard motor, made in Canada and achieving rapid acceleration with a top speed of approximately 35 knots. “Just imagine jumping aboard your H2 e, fully charged and ready to go from your private dock. No noise, no exhaust, no refuelling, no hassle… just a rewarding day on the water”, stated Nick Harvey, Four Winns Brand Director. The electric boating future is available now.

Four Winns H2 e | 22′ / 6.7m | 8’5″ / 2.54m | 4,870 / 2,209kg | $189,600 USD | https://www.fourwinns.com/   

Four Winns H2 e

GRADY-WHITE 218 Adventure

The Grady-White 218 Adventure is an innovative and practical design built with top quality and features well laid out for both family and fishing fun. This boat includes a vee berth cabin that you can actually sleep in, and it has a head for all-day comfort as well. At the stern, the aft jump seats quickly convert to a walk-through for swimming and water sports, or for casting off the stern. The cockpit is spacious and the helm and companion seats can swivel for lounging so you can stay cool under the shade of the optional hardtop.

Grady-White 218 Adventure | 21’3″ / 6.48m | 8’6″ / 2.59m | 3,650 / 1,656kg | $160,000 USD | www.gradywhite.com

Grady-White 218 Adventure

INVICTUS Yacht, IN-GT280S 

With the Invictus GT280S, the “S” stands for Sport. In its new outboard configuration, allowing up to 500 hp engines overall, the Invictus first lady adds a thrill to the refined style which has made it well known and appreciated for long. The extraordinary ease of the interiors, the balance of lines and the stability underway are without compromise. The spaces onboard are tailored to ensure all the comfort which would be usually found on larger boats. Today, beauty will run faster.

INVICTUS Yacht, IN-GT280S | 29’2″ / 8.87m | 9’4″ / 2.84m | Starting at $495,000 CAN |www.marine-sca.com

Invictus Yacht IN-GT280S

KAWASAKI JET SKI ULTRA 310LX

With a 1,498 cc supercharged inline 4-cylinder engine and the advanced 22.5-degree vee hull, the Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310LX is a hot ride! The 3-position ERGO-FIT adjustable luxury seat makes a long ride a pleasure and the Jet Ski Ultra has a long list of equipment like a rear-view camera, 7” TFT instrumentation screen and the Kawasaki smart reverse system with deceleration (KSRD). You get great storage featuring an easy side-access. Everyone will enjoy the JETSOUND 4s audio system and there is a power mode selection for less-experienced riders.

Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310LX | 140.9” / 3,580cm | 47” / 1,195cm | 1,089 / 949kg | MSRP $25,699 | www.kawasaki.ca 

KAWASAKI JET SKI ULTRA 310LX

LEGEND 18 XTR

Legend Boats packages their boats so you can literally get a drive-away package ready for family fun and fishing. The Legend 18 XTR includes a 90 hp Mercury ELPT 4-stroke outboard and a glide-on trailer but there’s more than that. The 18 XTR includes a big walk-through glass windshield a stand-up height all-weather top and two swivel bucket seats plus an aft bench seat that converts to a casting platform. The 18 XTR has two 7-foot lockable rod boxes. Add the extra value package and get a 5-inch GPS fish and depth finder, a Bluetooth AM/FM stereo system and more.

Legend 18 XTR | 17’6″ / 5.81m | 90″ / 2.74m | 2,654 / 1,203.8kg | $54,999 CDN | www.legendboats.com

LEGEND 18 XTR

LEGEND 18 FUN

Legend Boats 18 FUN is an 18-foot, two-tube pontoon with lots of seating space, storage for life jackets, lines and fenders as well as fishing gear. With the base engine being a 4-stroke Mercury 25 ELPT, you can expect smooth, quiet running and great fuel economy. The 75-litre built-in fuel tank will give you excellent range. The 96” beam makes the 18 FUN a very stable platform for serious fishing or for young people to spend the day. Many buyers get the optional Bimini top for weather and sun protection.   

Legend 18 Fun | 19’0″ / 5.79m | 96″ / 2.43m | 1,425 / 646.4kg | $35,999 CDN | www.legendboats.com 

Legend 18 Fun

LILYBAEUM Yacht, LI-LE25 

The Lilybaeum LE25 is a luxurious day boat that combines performance with the robustness of a “Fisherman” and with the elegance and comfort of a cruising yacht. A perfect blend of elegance and power, (allowing up to 300 hp engines overall), the Lilybaeum Levanzo 25 offers both comfort and versatility. Handmade using the finest components, each Lilybaeum Yacht is treated as a single piece, an “Italian product of excellence”, made for sailing through time.

LILYBAEUM Yacht, LI-LE25 | 25’11” / 7.90m | 8’4″ / 2.54m | Starting at $216,000 CAN |www.marine-sca.com

LILYBAEUM Yacht, LI-LE25

MALIBU M242

The new M242 builds on the legacy of Malibu’s ground-breaking M-Series. Higher freeboard keeps the interior dry, and misters are available to cool the crew on those really hot days. The standard features read like a wish list including the Max-Relax™ Sundeck Loungers, E-Z Stash Board Locker™, and Raise-&-Laze Armrest™ to create a sophisticated experience with the power to thrill. In true Malibu fashion, the M242 delivers the highest level of performance and customization in its class. Surf Gate® Fusion integrates directly into the unique M-Line hull for the cleanest surf swells.

Malibu M242 | 24’2″ / 7.37m | 102″ / 2.59m | 7,500 / 3,402kg | $260,000 USD | www.malibuboats.com

MALIBU M242

MAREX Yacht, MA-440 GC 

The Scandinavian Marex 440 is a new generation of cruisers with contemporary lines and several new innovations. This new boat is set to become the brand’s flagship at 13.70m in length and with a maximum beam of 4.27m. There will be two different versions: the 440 Gourmet Cruiser with an enormous U-shaped kitchen layout and the 440 Scandinavia Version with a second dining area in an enclosed salon. The largest kitchen in its class, beach club next to the water, two bathrooms and a washing machine are examples of the many features.

MAREX Yacht, MA-440 GC | 45’0″ / 13.70m | 14’6″ / 4.43m | Base price $1,500,000 CAN | www.marine-sca.com

Marex Yacht MA-440GC

MASTERCRAFT NXT21

New for 2024, the NXT21 features a 7-inch touchscreen and a redesigned dash. The SurfStar software now offers riders enhanced customization with three additional Rapid Surf wave options on each side and integrated foil profiles. The NXT21 now features the Advanced Audio package as standard, with four speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer. The NXT21 comes fully equipped with ballast, delivering longer and taller waves. The SurfStar technology offers high-performance surf capabilities with easy-to-use functionality, providing wakes and waves suitable for all skill levels. Another great feature is the optional FastFill that fills or empties ballast tanks in about four minutes!

Mastercraft NXT 21 | 21’1″ / 6.43m | 100″ / 2.54m | 4,700 / 2,132kg | $110,000 USD | www.mastercraft.com

Mastercraft NXT21

PRINCECRAFT SPORT 175

For 2024, Princecraft is reinforcing its “Family” focus for the Sport series. A rethought boat with a totally different design, the Sport 175 with its cut bow, is like the planning hull of an 18-foot boat in a 17-foot format for 17% more cockpit space. A new bow design includes an LED docking light. At the helm is a Simrad Go7 multi-function display and Jensen 160 w radio. Family-friendly features include the high curved glass windshield, drink holders, cockpit table and comfortable seating for four. The base Sport 175 has a Mercury® 90 EXLPT four-stroke motor and galvanized bunk-style trailer.

Princecraft Sport 175 | 17’5″ / 5.3m | 91″ / 2.3m | 1,542 / 699kg | $51,023 CAD incl. trailer | www.princecraft.com

Princecraft Sport 175

PRINCECRAFT VECTRA 23 RL

The Vectra series is definitely Princecraft’s family-friendly pontoon series. For 2024, they’ve completely redesigned it. The new heritage exterior design gives it a unique and different look on the market. A new console, more storage space with storage under all seats, a larger table in the RL models and above all, new colours and even a special Copper Edition offered on certain models. Other features include a Jensen 160-watt Bluetooth-equipped stereo, swim platform including a telescopic stainless steel boarding ladder and a Bimini top. Base power is a Mercury 40 ELPT CT four-stroke motor.

Princecraft Vectra 23 RL | 23’6″ / 7.2m | 8’5″ / 2.6m | 2,042 / 926kg | $40,879 CAD | www.princecraft.com

PRINCECRAFT VECTRA 23 RL

PURSUIT S 268 Sport

As a cottage “do everything” boat, an islander or a serious fishing platform, the Pursuit S268 will excel. We had the pleasure of running this boat recently and the twin Yamaha F200 engines delivered strong acceleration and a top speed of over 50 mph. The swim platform/transom is the right place to step aboard and from there, it’s wide-open spaces. The centre console and hardtop protect the premium helm seating with armrests and lots of space for electronics. The bow area has removable back-rests and of course, this is fully rigged for fishing

Pursuit S 268 Sport | 27’4″ / 8.23m | 8’9″ / 2.43m | 6,770 / 3,070kg | Base $290,458 CAD | www.pursuitboats.com

Pursuit S 268 Sport

RANGER TUG R27

There’s a whole club of people who have discovered Ranger Tugs, the trailerable, fuel-efficient, maneuverable, seaworthy, and well-equipped cruising boats, designed and built in the USA. Cruising without compromise is the name of the game for the R-27 from Ranger Tugs. Straight from the factory, your new R-27 will be outfitted to cruise, fish, and play in comfort and style. Powered by the efficient and popular Yamaha F300 outboard motor, the new R-27 doesn’t waste time delivering you and your family to your next adventure. Includes features like a Garmin 8612xsv chartplotter and bow thruster that will make docking a non-event.

Ranger Tug R27 | 33’4″ / 10.16m | 8’6″ / 2.59m | 7,700lbs / 3,493kg | $239,937 USD | www.rangertugs.com

Ranger Tug R27

REGAL 38 SURF

Regal’s newest model, the 38 Surf is the largest surf boat in the world! This big, beautiful rig is 40-feet long and 11-feet 11-inches wide and features a well-designed open layout, thanks to its size and design, which it delivers a one-of-a-kind surfing experience. With twin Volvo Forward Drives and dual 22” Garmin Glass Cockpit Watersports Displays and needing no ballast to fill, the Regal 38 Surf creates an impressively long wave with lots of push. Spacious bow seating, ample mezzanine seating and the electrically activated Ultralounge are just a few of the exceptional features.

Regal 38 Surf | 39’2″ / 11.88m | 11’11” / 3.6m | 19,400 / 8,799kg | Please contact Local Dealer for Pricing | www.regalboats.com

Regal 38 surf

SCHAEFER YACHTS 375

The Schaefer 375 has been designed to offer the amenities, sophistication and comfort typically found in the larger Schaefer models. Available with either gas or diesel IO’s, twin or triple outboards the Schaefer 375 has flexible deck layouts to allow for a gourmet station including a grill at the stern or a sun pad/bench seating arrangement. Flip-down balconies are standard on both sides. The cabin sleeps four and has a full head, separate shower and a full galley. The all-new Schaefer 375 has amenities and comforts found in larger models but without the hassle and cost.

Schaefer Yachts 375 | 37’2″ / 11.277m | 11’4″ / 3.35m | 17,400 / 7,892.5kg | Base price $572,473 USD | www.theyachtsolutions.com  

Schaefer Yachts 375

SEA RAY 370 SUNDANCER

Bold new styling is still distinctly Sea Ray and the 370 Sundancer is a special blend of great features with a convenient and weatherproof hardtop and available opening sunroof, big C-shaped bow seating with armrests, storage and more. Below is a cabin with hull-side windows, enclosed head and shower, galley equipment and sleeping accommodations. The 370 Sundancer is available in either outboard or sterndrive versions starting with twin MerCruiser 8.2L MAG HO ECT engines, Bravo Three drives and Joystick piloting.

Sea Ray Sundancer 370 | 37’8″ / 11.48m | 12′ / 3.66m | 20,800 / 9,435kg | Base MSRP $835,980 USD | www.searay.com 

Sea Ray 370 Sundancer

SMOKER CRAFT ADVENTURER 188 DC PRO

The Smoker Craft Adventurer 188 DC Pro is a dual console design fishing boat that has all the features serious anglers are looking for. This 19-footer has a full 9-foot beam for lots of space onboard, an AM/FM stereo system, lockable boat storage, an integrated gunwale track system for accessories, a lockable centre rod locker, aerated live well and more. The swim platform has a stainless-steel boarding ladder, a ski pylon and a power pedestal. Choose the top that suits your needs or leave it open. Add the fish finder/depth system you prefer and you’re all set!

Smoker Craft Adventurer 188 DC Pro | 18’11” / 5.48m | 96” / 2.43m | 1,792 / 812.8kg | MSRP Boat only $34,742 USD | www.smokercraft.com

Smoker Craft Adventurer 188 DC Pro

STARCRAFT RX 23 Q DC

Pontoons are very popular now and buyers have been asking for more… more features, more luxury and more style. One of the pontoons that was designed to answer that call is the Starcraft RX 23 Q DC. It’s a dual console design with a full fibreglass console. Custom hull colours and rich interior upholstery choices reinforce that this boat is special. The dashboard has full instruments, a JL Audio system with Bluetooth, a Simrad NSS7 display and available accents like lighted cup holders, concealed mood lighting and C-Zone digital switching. The Starcraft RX 23 Q DC can handle up to 300 horsepower too.

Starcraft RX 23 Q DC | 25’8” / 7.62m | 102” / 2.43m | MSRP Boat Only $79,330 USD | www.starcraftmarine.com

Starcraft RX 23 Q DC

TAIGA ORCA

Last summer we rode the all-electric Taiga Motors Orca model personal watercraft which is roughly $20,990 CAD. The company also offers the limited-edition Taiga Orca Carbon as their top-of-the-line. We found the Orca was plenty fast, offered exceptional acceleration and handled very well too. It has a fully electric, direct drive Tractive Unit that delivers instant throttle response, top speeds about 65 mph and their staff told us the Taiga had a range of 27 miles; plenty of time to explore and have fun. Come home, plug it in and go again!

Taiga Orca | 9.53’ / 2,905mm | 3.79’ / 1,156mm  | 533 / 241.7kg | Online starting at $20,990 CAD | www.taigamotors.com

TAIGA Orca

WELLCRAFT 435

The Wellcraft 435 Performance Cruiser pushes the boundaries with up to 1,050 horsepower available. This rugged and capable boat is designed to withstand any weather and deliver outstanding performance for its lucky owner and guests. Side balconies greatly expand the cockpit space. Asymmetrical starboard side decks lead past the side helm door to the forward sun lounge. A sunroof and glass bulkheads open the fully-equipped galley and dinette to the breezes. Two spacious cabins, each with private head and shower accommodate up to five.  

Wellcraft 435 | 42’8” / 13.4m | 12’6” / 3.82m | www.wellcraft.com                         

Wellcraft 435

XO DFNDR 8      

With head-turning military looks and Nordic four-season accommodations, the XO (Crossover) DFNDR 8 offers a very distinctive choice to Canadian boaters. The black-wrapped hull is welded heavy gauge aluminum and everything onboard feels like it’s ready to do battle. Nothing says that better than the shock-mitigating helm and companion seats! The XO DFNDR 8 features a plumb bow, deep vee hull and a very broad transom to deliver high speeds even in rough going. With twin engines to 450 hp, it’s powerful and fast. Thick welded railings facilitate onboard movement, even underway. This is a rugged and versatile boat to explore new waterways.

XO DFNDR 8 | 25.91’ / 7.9m | 7.7’ / 2.37m | 4,188 / 1,900kg | Base MSRP $200,000 Euro | xoboats.com

XO DFNDR 8 


YAMAHA 222 XD

This year, Yamaha’s 222XD model wake surf and family fun boat gets some big upgrades. New engines add power, reduce sound and enhance fuel economy too. Because yes – the 222XD is a twin-engine boat! It comes with twin 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, 1/8 Litre High Output Yamaha Marine engines for great power and top speeds. The sound system with sub-woofer is killer. The 222XD features Yamaha’s DRiVE paddle control system that makes docking and trailer-loading far easier. For wake surfing and other sports, the 222XD comes with SurfPointe, Ballast System and wakeboard racks on the folding tower.

Yamaha 222 XD | 22′ / 6.71m | 8’6″ / 2.59m | 4,191 / 1,901kg | www.yamaha-motor.ca

Yamaha 222 XD

Four Winns H9

By Andy Adams

Stunning new flagship in Four Winns’ bow rider line. Next Wednesday, October 30, at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the public will get its first in-person look at Four Winns’ stunning new H9 model, the flagship of their bowrider series. But we were invited to the dealer unveiling in Charlevoix, Michigan earlier this past summer to run Hull # 2.

Read More


Destinations

Hiding Out in Belize

By Zuzana Prochazka

Dodging holiday havoc in the tropics

Getting out of town was top-of-mind as it was only November and I was already saturated with Christmas traditions – the music, the glitter, the cookies, the sales. A week in relatively remote Belize was the siren song so we booked a 45-foot catamaran with The Moorings and packed our bags.

Read More