Best Boat Grills of 2021 – Rated & Reviewed

| Last Updated: January 7, 2022

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There’s no better way to end a pleasant day out on the water than by enjoying a freshly cooked meal. With a boat grill, there’s no hassle of trying to find a restaurant or driving all the way home. Instead, you can prepare a delicious meal for everyone right there on the deck.

Cooking out on the water is a different experience than cooking back on land and it can be hard to know where to start when you’re looking for the best boat grill.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the most important features of boat grills and share some of our favorite models.

Comparison of the Best Boat Grills

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • 200 sq-inches of cooking space
  • 10,500 BTU design and features stainless steel cooking grates
  • Lightweight and extremely user-friendly for all day outings
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  • 180 sq-inches of cooking space and is the Best Pontoon Boat Grill
  • 11,000 BTU construction and is designed with Wind Block side panels
  • Highly efficient and can cook for up to 2-hours on 1 bottle of propane
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  • Best Magma Grill
  • Made from 18-9 mirror polished stainless steel
  • Designed for a quick and easy clean up and can be disassembled in seconds
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  • Best Gas Grill for Boat
  • Made from 18-8 mirror polished stainless steel
  • Constructed with foldable legs, grease catcher, and snap out radiant heat plates
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  • Best Boat Grill Mount and is compatible with all Kuuma and Olympian grills
  • Fits 7/8 to 1-1/4" round or square rails and mounts in seconds
  • Can be set up inside or outside your boat
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Qualities of the Best Boat Grills

Out on the water, there are some extra details to consider:

Type of Fuel

Just like regular grills, you can find boat grills powered by charcoal, electricity, and gas. All three have their own pros and cons, but our recommendation is to choose a gas or propane grill if you’re using it on a boat. It is cheaper and can be purchased in small disposable bottles for easy transport. Charcoal is is a hassle to keep dry and takes up a lot of storage space, while electric stoves can use up a lot of the boat’s power.

Material

Material is very important for a boat grill because they are constantly being exposed to water and salt, making them susceptible to rust. Stainless steel is always the way to go when you want something rust and stain-resistant, but remember there is more than one kind of stainless steel. 316 stainless steel is the ideal option. It is longer-lasting and rust-resistant compared to 304 stainless steel, another type often used for grills.

Wind

Another fact that’s important to consider is wind. Out on the water, wind is even more of a problem than it is on land.  Many models are designed to strategically block wind while you cook, typically with some kind of panel or swivel technology.

Features of Our Favorite Boat Grill Mounts

Most boat grills will either come with a mount or have one you can purchase separately. Finding the right mount is important because it is what will keep your grill safe and secure on the boat.

Out on the water, the last thing you want is a heavy grill sliding around the deck, or even worse, completely overboard. The ideal mount is sturdy and secure, but can still be easily installed and removed when necessary.

The bottom line is: it should be easy to move the grill around to different locations on the boat, but only when you want to. It’s a balance of finding something reliable but also easy to change when you want.

Willy's Top Picks - Best Boat Grills

Review of the Best Boat Grills 

Let’s move on to the review section. We’ve selected and reviewed a variety of different kinds to help you find the best model for your specific boat.

Best Boat Grill:
Char-Broil TRU-Infrared

Pros

  • Easy to clean
  • Infrared cooking system
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Large stainless steel grilling space

Cons

  • Can’t sustain temperatures lower than 450 degrees for long periods of time.

What Recent Buyers Report

First up is our favorite choice: the Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Portable Grill. Recent buyers have had a great time using this Char-Broil grill. They liked it for its compact size and the safety lid on top. This helped them keep the heat trapped so the flames would not spread around due to wind. They also found it to be a better option due to its simple and practical design. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

It stands out to us because of the infrared cooking technology it uses. This makes it safer for use while making sure that the fuel costs are low. The hood on the grill gives a better distribution of heat. Meanwhile, the temperature gauge on the hood helps users in controlling the amount of heat.

It is powered with liquid propane gas and boasts 200 square inches of stainless steel grilling grate.

Built to be both durable and lightweight, it is the perfect grill to bring along on any trip on land or out at sea. It weighs less than 20 pounds and is 13.6 inches tall, but still has a lot of power and cooking space. Nearly every aspect of this grill’s design is focused on making it ideal to take on the go.

Its 9,500 BTU burner is powered by a compact and portable 16.4 ounce disposable LP cylinder and the ignition is placed right inside the right front leg to protect it from damage. The grill also comes with attached handles to make it easy to carry and two built-in latches to keep the lid securely closed.

The infrared grilling technology allows the grill to heat up quickly while using minimal propane and cooks food evenly. It also makes it a safer option, especially for using on a boat, since it decreases the risk of flare ups.

Who Will Use This Most

This is most useful for those who have smaller boats and want to have a private gathering. The grill is enough for a family and has a size fit for small boats. But, if you love to have wild parties with loads of friends, then this isn’t for you.

Bottom Line

The bottom line on this one is that it is one of the best boat grills you will find in the market. The price is just right for all the features it offers, which beats other rival boat grills. Its ignition button is under the front leg, which makes it even more secure when you have kids around.

Overall, it’s hard to beat this grill. The Char-Broil TRU Infrared combines power, durability, and portability, making it perfect for cooking anywhere.

Best Pontoon Boat Grill:
Coleman Camp Propane Grill

Coleman Propane Camping Grill, Portable Camp Grill with Wind Guards, Pressure Control, Adjustable Power, & Drip Tray; 11,000 BTUs of Cooking Power for Camping, Tailgating, Grilling, & More

Pros

Cons

  • Panels only block wind from certain directions

What Recent Buyers Report

People who bought it recently have given very positive feedback regarding its use. They appreciate the versatility of use that it offers. They also found it as good for grilling at home as on a boat. Buyers are also highly appreciative of its removable cooking surface, which makes for easy cleaning.

Why it Stands Out to Us

It makes it to our list due to the surface area of the grill and its sleek build. The cooking surface extends over 180 square inches, which provides ample space for a large family, too. The heat is at 11,000 BTUs, which is just right for a propane cylinder to last for two hours.

This grill is versatile and made to last. It is ideal for boats, but can also be used in a variety of other settings, like tailgating or camping.

At the same time, it is slim and lightweight, making it a great option if you have a smaller boat that won't fit one of the larger models.

It includes WindBlock panels, which can be used to shelter the grate from the wind and can also fold down to function as side tables. It also uses PerfectFlow technology to provide consistent heat.

Who Will Use This Most

People who love adventures will find it the most useful. It is so easy to pack and use that it is perfect for pontoon boats. It is good even for camping and hunting trips where you would want to pack light. 

Bottom Line

To sum up, this is a great choice if you are going on a pontoon boat. These boats float on the water due to added buoyancy, so they need something lightweight. This grill has just the right weight for this, so you can go for it without any hesitation.

The Coleman Camp Propane Grill is a great option if you want a compact grill that works great in several different settings. Lightweight but sturdy, it is made for easy transport without sacrificing cooking space or power.

Best Magma Grill:
Magma Marine Kettle Gas Grill

Magma Products, Party Size Marine Kettle Gas Grill, A10-215

Pros

  • Durable
  • Windproof
  • Unique, sleek design
  • Easy to assemble and mount
  • Heats quickly and cooks evenly

Cons

  • More susceptible to rust
  • Mounting brackets sold separately

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers love this boat grill primarily because of its stylish body. They like the strength and reliability of the stainless steel frame most. Buyers also reported easier use because the grill uses gas as a fuel. It is both widely available and cost-effective, so they recommend others invest in it, too. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

It catches our eye primarily with its shiny frame but its functioning is great, as well. Its 18-9 mirror polished stainless steel construction is a class apart from other grills of this league. The wind baffle and catch pan are easy to clean and degrease after use, too.

If you’re in the market for something a little sleeker and more modern, the Magma Marine is an excellent choice.

It has a unique circular design with a swiveling turbo venturi and a control valve that block wind and prevent blowouts, which are important features if you’re cooking on a boat. It is constructed from stainless steel and powered by disposable propane canisters.

It can easily be mounted onto any boat for ultimate safety and security. The mount has to be purchased separately, but Magma offers a wide variety of mounting options so you can find the best fit for your specific boat.

Who Will Use This Most

This is most useful for those who prefer safety over everything else. The stay-cool handle on the lid is something that almost all users love. The lid is dome-shaped and brings about greater protection against wind and rain. So, it is great for boating in places where the weather is unreliable, too.

Bottom Line

The final word on this is that it is quite cost-effective and has a super-shiny body. This makes everyone like the grill even before using it. The design is quite practical and has the right size dimensions. So, you can invest in it to get long-term usage and benefits from it.

While it isn’t made from 316 stainless steel like some of the other models, the Magma Marine is designed specifically for cooking on a boat. Its sleek and windproof shape makes the process much easier, simpler, and safer.

Best Gas Grill for Boat:
Magma A10-803 Connoisseur

Magma Products, ChefsMate Connoisseur Series Gas Grill, A10-803, Multi, One Size

Pros

  • Easy to clean
  • Radiant plate
  • Lightweight but sturdy
  • Heats quickly and evenly
  • Usable on land or on boat (fold-away legs)

Cons

  • Built with 304 stainless steel
  • Mounting system not included

What Recent Buyers Report

This boat grill has impressed its buyers a lot, as it has such great features. They are particularly fond of the stainless steel construction, which increases its life. They also like it because it runs on both propane and LPG, both of which are easily available in the market.

Why it Stands Out to Us

It distinguishes itself to us with its well-balanced lid, which is lockable. The lid is slightly oversized, which makes balancing it on the grill even easier. It has an internal safety shell that deposits all the grease and remnants in the front of the grease tray.

The Magma Connoisseur is our top pick if you’re looking for a boat-ready gas grill.

It is made from 18-8 mirror polished stainless steel and includes a swiveling valve, which makes it safer and easier when you need to switch out the gas canister. This grill is sturdy but lightweight, measuring just 17.8 pounds.

Its four steel legs make it a breeze to transport and use in other locations and they also fold up for when you have it mounted on the boat.

It includes a snap-out radiant plate, which allows for even heat distribution and precise heat control. It also makes it much easier to clean.

Who Will Use This Most

It is most useful for those who like to keep cleaning to a minimum. The grease tray comes off easily and you can replace it after some scrubbing. This, along with the fact that it has a stainless steel body, makes it best for boaters. 

Bottom Line

In our opinion, it is well worth your money if you want to go high on quality and low on budget. The grill has an amazing valve for controlling the amount of fuel. It also has a simple inlet to attach the gas canisters to it and replace them when needed.

The Magma Connoisseur is a versatile and lightweight gas grill, easy to mount on your boat or use on land.

Like the other grill designed by Magma, it is made from 304 stainless steel and the mounting devices are sold separately, but overall it is a worthwhile investment and a quality grill.

Best Boat Grill Mount:
Kuuma Quick-Release Boat Rail Grill Mount

Kuuma 58195 Quick Release Inboard/Outboard Boat Rail Grill Mount

Pros

  • Easy installation
  • Sturdy and secure
  • Heavy-duty brackets
  • Made from stainless steel

Cons

  • Only compatible with certain brands

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers gave mixed reviews about this boat grill mount. Most of them found it to be a perfect fit for their boat grills and they liked its strength, too. They reported that the mount helped them balance the grill on the edge of the boat, too. This way, it took up less space. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

It stands out to us due to its anodized aluminum construction material. This makes it best for use on boats as it can fight off corrosion easily. The mount has a quick-release knob, which enables you to dislodge the grill whenever you want. 

Now that we’ve gone over our top boat grills, let’s revisit the second most important decision you’ll have to make: which mount to buy. Our favorite is the Kuuma 58195 Quick-Release because it is made from quality material and is easy to use.

Constructed from stainless steel, this mount is durable and rust-resistant. The design of the plate and rail mount make for easy reattachment, so you can set it up and take it off the rail whenever you like without a hassle. There is also a quick-release knob to further simplify the installation/removal process.

Its hardware is designed to work with several different brands, including all Kuuma grills and most Magma and Olympian grills.

Who Will Use This Most

People who like to go on prolonged boating trips will find it most helpful. The mount makes sure that the boat grill stays well balanced and in the right position all the time. So, no matter if you are using it for a day or a week, it will hold on to the grill. 

Bottom Line

The final verdict is that you surely need a boat grill mount if you are planning to party on deck. The mount has a simple design and anyone can use it without any assistance. So, go for it if you want to keep your boat grilling experience rewarding and safe.

This mount works well with several different models and encompasses that perfect balance of security and easy installation.

Aspects to Consider Before Buying

In order to enjoy grilling on a boat, you need to have the best boat grill. This is something that affects both your safety and the quality of food. Keeping this in mind, we have brought you a list of the aspects to consider before buying one. 

Mounting Type

The mounting type is a very important aspect, as it affects the way you use the grill. There are two ways of doing so, using it in a patio BBQ-style or directly attaching it to the boat. The mounting should be compatible with your boat type and trip. Most boat grills come with a mounting kit, so it won’t be a problem. 

Fuel Type

The fuel type is another significant feature you have to consider. The two most commonly used fuel types are coal and gasoline. Each one comes with its own benefits and risk factors. There are some grills with infrared cooking, as well. So, choose the fuel type which is easiest for you to manage. 

BTU

BTU stands for British Thermal Units, which is a standard measurement of temperature. You do not necessarily have to choose high BTU grills, as they can burn food. So, settle for the boat grill with moderate BTUs to enjoy thoroughly grilled food. 

Size

The size of the boat grill matters a lot, as well. This is because it has to be compact enough to adjust in your boat and broad enough for food placement. So, compare your needs and the space in your boat before getting a new boat grill. 

Char-Broil TRU-Infrared

Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind

Where there is outdoor cooking and grilling, you can never be too cautious. You have to be careful while cooking, too, but you have to be more considerate while buying grilling equipment. Here are some of the considerations you have to be mindful of. 

Corrosion-Resistant Design

While buying a boat grill, you have to keep in mind that there will be additional moisture in the air. This will cause rusting of the grill and the outer frame. So, you have to get a grill that has a corrosion-resistant frame or a protective coating in place. 

Safety

While looking for a new boat grill, you have to keep safety in mind, too. There may be many people on the boat and there is so much wood work you have to be careful. Make sure the grill stands towards the outside of the boat to minimize the risk of accidents.

Weight and Balance

The grill should have an appropriate weight which is easy to balance on the boat. An unbalanced grill adds to the risk of accidental fires on the dock, thus, you have to be careful of this. 

People Also Ask

Boat grills are not something to take lightly, are they? This is why people are extra cautious when they decide to get one. They come up with many questions regarding safety and cooking techniques about these grills. So, we have answered the most common questions to help you out.

Can You Have a Grill on a Pontoon Boat?

Yes, you can have a grill on a pontoon boat, as it is legal in all states. There are specific grills for pontoon boats on the market. The only problem is that when everybody gets party spirits, they can get carried away. And this can lead to serious problems for you and other people. So, if you can keep things in control, there is nothing wrong with having a grill on a pontoon boat.

What is Infrared Cooking Technology?

Infrared technology uses infrared rays to heat up the food. There is no direct contact of food with a flame in this form of cooking. This makes it safer and more efficient, particularly when you are partying on a boat. There is an even distribution of heat in infrared cooking, which ensures more delectable food.

Conclusion

Boat grills are an excellent addition to your summer outings and open water adventures.

There are extra details to consider when you’re cooking out on the water, but once you find the best model for you, it is an easy and fun way to enjoy a meal whenever you want.

Hey there, I’m Will, and I’ve been smoking and grilling for as long as I can remember. I made this blog to help others who are looking for honest and reliable info from someone they can trust. In my own efforts to try to perfect my smoking and grilling skills, I’ve done a lot of research and would like to have it compiled as a resource for others to use. Happy smoking!