Tampa Bay offers some of the best boating in Florida — calm bays, winding mangrove channels, and endless spots for fishing, sandbar hopping, and cruising. But with its shallow flats and shifting tides, not every boat can handle these waters with ease.
At Thunder Marine, we know that navigating Tampa Bay requires a boat with the right combination of shallow draft, stability, and versatility. Whether you’re chasing redfish inshore or enjoying a family day along the coast, here are four boats that deliver smooth, confident performance in Tampa Bay’s unique conditions.
1. 2025 Sportsman Open 252 Center Console – $149,745*
Compact, capable, and designed with precision, the Sportsman Open 252 is ideal for boaters who want to enjoy both shallow inshore and near-offshore adventures around Tampa Bay.
Top Features:
Shallow draft and deep-V hybrid design allow easy access to flats, sandbars, and coastal shallows.
Single or twin Yamaha power options deliver a quiet, efficient ride in calm or choppy water.
Self-leveling trim tabs and SeaStar power steering ensure smooth handling at all speeds.
Forward lounge seating and an open cockpit provide space for both fishing and cruising.
Accommodates up to 10 passengers for a perfect mix of performance and comfort.
2. 2023 Regulator 26XO – $199,750*
The Regulator 26XO is a crossover center console that truly shines in Tampa Bay. It’s designed for inshore versatility with the strength to handle near-offshore runs — a perfect fit for our mix of channels, flats, and open stretches.
Top Features:
16” draft gives you access to shallow flats and backwaters that larger boats can’t reach.
Yamaha XTO 450 with digital controls delivers quiet, reliable power.
Aquarium-style livewell and macerated fishbox for easy fishing days.
Stand-up head compartment and smart storage for all-day comfort.
Factory T-Top with integrated lighting
Accommodates up to 10 passengers, making it great for families and anglers who enjoy both fishing and relaxed cruising.
3. 2023 Sportsman Open 322 Center Console – $299,750*
The Sportsman Open 322 is the flagship of Sportsman’s Open series — a performance-driven center console that’s equally comfortable offshore or cruising Tampa Bay’s shallower stretches.
Top Features:
Variable deep-V hull offers a perfect balance of draft and stability, letting you explore bays without grounding.
Integrated Seakeeper Ride System automatically adjusts for pitch and roll, keeping the boat level in all conditions.
Twin Yamaha 400s provide effortless power and control, even in tighter channels.
Spacious cockpit and forward seating make it perfect for fishing or relaxing with the family.
Accommodates up to 12 passengers comfortably for all-day adventures.
4. 2025 Regulator 25 – $294,225*
Known for its legendary ride quality, the Regulator 25 combines offshore capability with impressive versatility — making it one of the most stable center consoles for navigating Tampa Bay’s mix of shallow and open waters.
Top Features:
24 deep-V hull cuts cleanly through chop, providing smooth handling when crossing boat wakes or wind-blown channels.
Balanced center console layout keeps weight even for better performance in variable depths.
Hydraulic steering and the Yamaha Helm Master EX system offer precision control in tight spaces.
Forward seating with insulated storage for gear or guests.
Accommodates up to 10 passengers, perfect for family outings or fishing trips.
Choosing the Right Boat for Tampa Bay
When selecting a boat for Tampa Bay’s shallow waters, consider:
Draft depth: Look for boats with less than 20" draft for exploring flats and backwaters.
Hull shape: A variable or moderate-V hull balances shallow performance with offshore capability.
Balance and stability: Center console and crossover designs offer better handling in mixed conditions.
Each of the boats above blends shallow-water agility with the strength and stability Thunder Marine customers expect.
Find Your Perfect Tampa Bay Boat with Thunder Marine
Tampa Bay’s shallow waters deserve a boat built to handle them — and our team can help you find the perfect fit. From the Sportsman Open series to Regulator’s crossover and center consoles, Thunder Marine offers quality boats that deliver comfort, control, and confidence every time you hit the water. Call us today at (727) 381-4444 or visit Thunder Marine in Tampa Bay to explore our full lineup. It’s not just a boat—it’s a lifestyle!
*Prices can and may change at any time without notice.