The Best Boat Grills

When summer comes, you may like to be on the open waters until sunset or even when it gets dark. When you do this, what you can’t avoid is hunger. A pack of stale sandwiches is quite boring for a fun sailing experience. How does grilling some tasty, juicy meat sound? Of course, the thought of it is mouth-watering.

To do this, you will need the best boat grill for your vessel. It can also be a way to entertain your guests and loved ones.

When getting a boat grill, there are some things you have to consider, like its size, dimension, and overall cooking power. If you don’t know where to start looking, don’t worry because all the information that you need is collected in this review on the most favorite portable grills for boats.

Top 12 Boat Grill Reviews

1. Magma A10-205 Marine Kettle Gas Grill

I’ve used a Magma boat grill for 15 years now, and my family absolutely loves this sailboat grill. Its dependability is, without a doubt, unmatched.

This grill makes grilling easy on a boat. It has a robust handle which counters wild winds well. I don’t have to worry about swinging covers at all!

To avoid having a hard time lighting it up even with the presence of gusting winds, the bowl and lid can be rotated. In addition, no one can get easily burnt as there are air-cool supports. You may not even need a potholer to remove the lid!

With its 13-inch grill, we had steak and bbq in a boat like we’re having it in the backyard. Cleaning after a hearty meal is easy as the grill is made of mirror-polished stainless steel.

2. Kuuma 58140-A Mountable Gas Grill

I never thought I could get something that works like popular brands but at half the price! The photos don’t justify the real appearance and quality of this product. I was stunned when I saw it for the very first time.

I don’t get hungry every time I enjoy a long day on my cruiser with this grill on the bow rail. You may also mount it on a rod or pedestal mount and Kuuma rail. It comes completely assembled, so you just have to attach it with its 20-inch cylinder threads.

I can cook everything on it, so I can say that it’s one of the most efficient and economical gas grills for boats. The crust that it leaves on the meat enhances the taste as well.

The cooking area is 13.5-inch long and 9-inch deep. Upon finding out that the top cover is 4-inch-deep, I decided to get a rack to stand on the grate for additional cooking space in case there are more people to feed.

3. Masterbuilt SH19030819 Propane Tabletop Grill

This boat propane grill is perfect for those who don’t have much space on their boats. It’s light, small, and easy to carry, but amazingly durable at the same time. The handle, top, and bottom parts along with the grates are robust. The grates can also be easily removed and cleaned.

With its compact size, the igniter doesn’t fail to work even within continuous use. I usually put it on the table in the middle of the deck. Some use it in their patio or other ventilated areas. My cooking area is 305 square inches. I usually whip some food for two with this grill but it can also accommodate four people.

I love that its U-shape burner distributes heat evenly. This makes it easy to control the flame so flare-ups won’t ever happen. Furthermore, the disposable tank that fuels this grill is simply awesome. It saves me from having to drag and refill big tanks. Imagine how convenient it is! I keep a couple of tanks in the boat so my cooking won’t be interrupted.

4. CUISINART CGG-180T Portable Propane

Partying with chums on open water needs a portable grill for a boat like this one. It has the capacity for 8 steaks, 8 patties, 4 pounds of fish, and 6 to 8 chicken breasts. I can make large batches of food on its 145 square inches grilling area.

It has a durable stainless steel burner and porcelain-enameled grate for even heat distribution. Since it has great features, I don’t have to deal with the problems I encounter with other grills. For instance, it’s not too small and not prone to dirt and decay.

I like that this grill is not bulky and can be stored in its compact form with fold away legs and a briefcase-style carrying handle. I can carry it around any time I want!

I rarely use the high heat function since I can get the food done just by using low to medium heat. This tells me that it’s not one of those ordinary marine bbq grills.

5. Magma Products, Connoisseur Series Gas Grill

For me, catching and grilling are the highlights of pontoon boat trips! I can enjoy my catch fresh from the water even though there’s 7 to 10 mph wind thanks to this grill. In just a few minutes, I can serve good food. This is another great model from Magma that makes grilling on your boat fun.

I love its fuel-efficient design as I can use the disposable 1-lb canister. But you also have the option to connect it with an onboard propane tank or LPG and CNG system. It has a swiveling fuel valve for safe and quick changing of the canister as well.

This propane gas grill adheres to my pontoon boat grill mount. Its appearance and build are incredible. You can’t underestimate the appeal of its 18-8 mirror polished stainless steel too. The edges are smooth and there are no sharp parts.

It has a large cooking area for a small grill. I usually cook a few pounds of fish, dozens of hotdogs, and burgers on it. It’s small and compact with fold-away legs. Thus, this gas grill can be taken everywhere onshore and offshore. You may cover the food while it’s cooking with its lockable lid and full-length handle.

6. Weber 51080001 Liquid Propane Grill

I first saw this propane grill from a friend who lives in a motorhome. Since I don’t have much space on my boat, I had a great idea to replace this with my boat grill. It worked out splendidly! It’s not only a gas grill for boats but also for the patio, balcony, and lanai.

I like that it heats up quickly with even heat distribution. It has 189 square inches of cooking surface and it’s not only for hotdogs and burgers. I was able to cook a rack of lambs with it. You can even put in two 2-qt saucepans and a 10-inch lodge skillet.

Grilling outdoors is more convenient as this propane gas grill can be fueled by a disposable canister. I firmly hold one side of the grill when I screw in the canister to make this process easier.

The burner is stainless steel and the bottom is aluminum steel. They’re all rust-free and durable but lightweight. Cleaning is also uncomplicated. I couldn’t agree more that it has an amazing cooking system because of its cast-iron, porcelain-covered grates, grease management section, burner tubes, and dial-in heat setting.

7. Coleman 2000003735 Fold N Go Propane Grill

It’s the lightest gas grill that I’ve ever come across as it’s like a small briefcase. I just knew right away that it’s perfect for my boat. This propane gas grill is compact and foldable so I can take it with me everywhere. I don’t only use it on my boat but for camping as well.

With its 105 square inches of the cooking top, I can cook thick burgers, chicken, and even steaks quickly. I think it’s because of the shallow vertical dimension, so I pay a lot of attention to it to avoid burning food.

There’s an adjustable horseshoe burner for even heat distribution and accurate temperature control. But it doesn’t have a push-button ignition so I need to light it with a match. It may sound old school but it offers more benefits than a charcoal grill.

Being an additional accessory to my boat, it fantastically maintains great performance despite exposure to extreme conditions. It keeps producing heat even amid 12 to 15 mph wind.

8. Camco Stainless Steel Portable Propane Gas Grill

I read other boat bbq grill reviews and they all talked about the quality construction, portability, and convenience offered by this product. When Father’s day came, I gifted this to my dad and he likes it a lot.

I usually go out with my boat the whole summer and this portable grill doesn’t cease to work even under direct sunlight. Gusty winds can be around but it stays lit all the time.

I’ve known some people who left this grill under the rain and they haven’t found rust on it too. I think the stainless steel construction is terrific and it’s what makes the grill tougher than others. The legs can be folded to be used as a tabletop grill.

Unlike other portable grills fueled by throwaway propane canisters, I have better control over the flame. I can put it in a low setting to prevent food from getting burnt with its push-button igniter. Other wonderful features include a latchable lid to secure the inside and a stay-cool handle to prevent burns.

This grill also comes with a heavy-duty polyester storage bag that is weather-resistant, so the grill is well-protected when not in use.

9. NOMADIQ Portable Propane Gas Grill

This gas grill stands out among others because of its compact size. It has a sleek and cool clamshell design that will surely catch your attention. Weighing only 12 pounds, it’s convenient to carry it around.

After unfolding the legs, opening this grill gives you 226 square inches of stainless steel boat grill. Each side has an allotted burner which can be set to different temperatures. I can have one side at a low setting to work as a warming rack.

Aside from its aesthetic appeal, I am impressed by the functions as well. I don’t need to wait for a long time for the grill to get hot. There’s even distribution of heat so any food is cooked well. Twist the propane to get this working in a matter of 45 seconds!

It cools down after 10 to 15 minutes so I can pack it up without waiting much longer. In my case, however, I needed to learn how to perfectly align the two sides to completely close the grill.

I love how it chars meat and vegetables. My fondness for boat barbecue grill was developed because of this product! Easy cleaning comes after food enjoyment. I just take off the head screws and remove the non-stick, cast iron grill plates. There are no crevices and areas that are hard to reach.

10. Cuisinart 37941 Grill Modified for Pontoon Boat

This boat grill saves me from running out of pontoon boat grill ideas. It’s suitable for pontoon’s railings as there are pre-installed mounting brackets. I don’t need any tools just to assure secure installation.

I can do almost everything with this 145 square inches of grilling surface. Eight burgers can be whipped up at the same time. I can cook sausages, hotdogs, and soup as well. It’s nice to enjoy a warm meal on pontoon boats or other water vessels.

Based on my observation, this one needs about 20% more time to completely cook food compared to bigger grills. Nonetheless, it’s not a big deal to avoid overcooking and wasting food by burning it. My family and I usually unwind on our pontoon so we’re not in a hurry to get a bite.

There’s a solid mount for the attachment of the propane tank. It’s much safer than a flimsy wand. The stainless steel burner and auto igniter are both reliable and I don’t have issues with the fire. The mess from drippings is minimized as there’s a grease tray for trouble-free cleaning.

11. Camco Kuuma 58155 Premium Gas Grill

This classy-looking and sturdy gas grill is an essential addition to my yacht and sailboat. I use it for every meal when I enjoy the open waters in summer. It works at the beach and even when there are hustling winds.

It heats up quicker than other marine grills for boats. But, a precaution is necessary and you should place it in an area that won’t be reached by children. It is best to set it up in a way that accidents can be prevented. There are fold-away legs so you can let it lay flat. It’s not hard to set it right with adjustment screws.

The control knob for the flame is simple and there’s a built-in thermometer as well. Hence, it is possible to monitor and control the heat. Read the instructions on how to use the regulator before using the grill as a whole. I can continuously grill and enjoy warm food as there’s a removable warming rack just at the top of the 216 square inches of grilling surface.

12. Magma A10-217-3 Marine Kettle Portable Oven

The previous Magma grill I had lasted for two decades. I’m amazed at the upgrade done on this boat smoker grill. It lights up even on windy days and I haven’t experienced flames going out even once. I sometimes can’t help but use it despite rain with 40mph winds.

Its swiveling, windproof turbo venturi tubes do wonder! Blowouts won’t happen because of its control valve regulator. Moreover, changing canisters is a breeze for every user.

Efficient cooking can be done fast and it’s all because of its patented design. The smell coming from this grill is enticing. Even if you put it at the highest temperature, it won’t consume a lot of fuel.

I’ve used it regularly on my boat for five years. ] It’s not a tedious task to clean and maintain since it has an inner safety shell that cools the outer shell. As such, discoloration is also prevented. Without a doubt, it’s worth every penny due to its premium quality.

You can close the dome-like cover for heat distribution. I like how balanced the hinged lid is. Of course, you can grill it without the cover. As you might notice, the features have a modern vibe. Just like its hi-tech radiant plate which is added to prevent flare ups.

Buyer’s Guide

Be particular with the factors mentioned in this buying guide so you can get a boat gas grill.

The Available Space

First, you have to consider the size of your vessel and the area where you intend to place it. Generally, the grills made for boats are small, portable, and easy to use.

The cooking area is measured by square inches. This detail is always included in the product description. Hence, you don’t have an excuse to miss this important information. It’s your main basis to determine if it will fit the space available in your boat. If you use a propane tank, this source of fuel should be given enough space.

Composition of the Grill

A premium quality boat grill is composed of top-quality and rust-proof materials. In this aspect, it promises durability. By its reliable parts, the grill will surely last despite exposure to harsh weather conditions.

Don’t forget that saltwater, grease, and discoloration can also cause damages to the grill. These appliances won’t succeed in leaving their marks if the boat grill is made of stainless steel.

Different Features

You may find boat grills with mounts for installation. This is the best set-up for individuals who travel by water most of the time. A grill can be mounted on a rail or push-pit. Another advantage of having a mounting feature is being able to manage the space on your boat so cooking goes on without any issues.

If the mount design doesn’t suit you, there’s a type of grill that you can set on a table or in a corner. Some are foldable. You can also look for one that can be easily carried just everywhere.

Types of Fuel

Fuel is important and you have the options to decide whether to settle for charcoal or propane. Gas is the common source of fuel for most boat grills. It’s either compressed natural gas or propane. Most boaters use the latter as it’s the most advantageous for the beach or sea.

Although propane costs more than charcoal, it’s much easier to set up. You can have control of the flame even though there are gusting winds. Cleaning is not too laborious as well.

Warranty

The easy way to know if the grill is worthy is when a warranty comes along with it. It’s a sign that the product is built for long-term service. Think of the possibility of spending more on the incidental replacement. A warranty will appease your mind if something goes wrong with the grill.

What is the Top-Rated Boat Grill

The best boat grill should be compact and portable so you can easily bring it with you to the beach, campsites, and other outdoor venues.

You can have a spectacular time traversing the waters if you can satisfy your belly with warm foods using the boat grill.

There are features to ensure safety while cooking in your vessel. Mounting brackets are provided so you can find a secure spot for the grill. Some have stowed away legs so you can lay them flat for a stable position.

Most grills nowadays work with a disposable canister which promises convenience. A grease tray can catch all the oil and grease so cleaning won’t take much time and effort.

These great features of a boat grill can be found in products made by Magma, Kuuma, Masterbuilt, CUISINART, Weber, Coleman, Camco, and NOMADIQ.

Is It Legal to Grill on a Boat

Yes, it’s legal to grill on a boat as long as you utilize your tools safely. Some areas have specific regulations which every boater should be familiar with.

Manufacturers know about this matter so boat grills are made to abide by these special requirements. They are ideally made for boats and some have clips or mounting brackets.

You should be responsible for securing it in your chosen area to avoid fires that may cause injuries and damages. Much worse can happen like endangering your life. When it happens, it will surely get the attention of authorities.

Propane is the most recommended fuel for boat grills. It’s a fact that charcoal is inexpensive and it makes food tastier. But there’s a huge downside when storing as it needs to be kept dry – something that might be impossible to do when you’re on a boat.

Charcoal can sometimes create a mess as pieces get into your food. There are more serious circumstances and you need to watch out for chances of fire hazard. It can easily melt a hole in your vessel. For the safety of yourself and your boat, you have to dismiss the idea of using charcoal in your watercraft.

What Kind of Fuel Should I Use

There’s a big no in using charcoal in your boat. Propane and electric grills are the most recommended for any water vessel. A propane grill is the most boat-friendly because of its portability and ease of usage. It’s also made for long-lasting use. You can secure them in your chosen section so accidents won’t happen.

You can have the electric grill if there are electric ports available onboard. It’s also user-friendly and you can make adjustments. There are safety features to keep you away from harm. However, it doesn’t excel when it comes to taste enhancement.

What are the Mounting Options for a Boat Grill

A boat grill rod holder is popular among mounting options as it can convert any rod holder into a suitable mounting bracket. You may also find a rail or pushpit option which is usually utilized by cruisers. Some prefer deck sockets as it’s installed in their cruising boats and decks.

What is the Necessary Cooking Power on a Boat Grill

To get the grill to work, you have to get the right fuel. LPG or CNG systems are common on yachts and large boats. A propane canister is flexible and can be used in any watercraft. Also, it’s the most appropriate for onshore grilling and beaching.

Since propane canisters are not too heavy, you can store many for uninterrupted cooking. You can determine how long it will last from the BTU rating. A canister that weighs a pound can last up to an hour of continuous grilling in a high setting. The rating should be 20,000 to 22,000 BTU.

LPG system can also be found in a throwaway 16.4-oz canister. It can last for hours but you have to place it in a ventilated area. If you’re after a stable propane system, it’s best to install it in your boat. The ideal spot for it is the vapor-tight compartment which shouldn’t be placed in the vessel’s interior.

The installed propane system is more expensive and it’s best suited for bigger boats and when heaps of grilling are needed.

How to Care for and Maintain

Here are useful tips on how to care for and properly maintain your boat grill:

• The external parts of a boat grill should be thoroughly cleaned with soapy water and a sponge.
• When cleaning the inner part of the grill, it’s essential to remove heavy debris. Always remember to empty the grease tray from time to time.
• It’s best to coat the grates with oil before using You can clean them after cooking while they’re warm with a brass wire brush.
• Burnt-on debris can’t be avoided sometimes. Therefore, you will need a grill cleaner to get rid of it. Before washing, disassemble the parts with care first. If you intend to keep your grill for a long period, wash it with soapy water.
• The ceramic electrode should be protected from grease accumulation and residue. See to it that it sits next to the burner. Be extra careful to not break the insulation and bend the wire.
• Don’t mind adjusting or disassembling the control valve. You only need to remove any residue that could have gotten stuck in the orifice by utilizing a pin or needle.
• Never use steel wool cleaners or anything abrasive on your boat grill.

What are the Safety Tips When Using a Boat Grill

Dealing with fire requires immediate attention to prevent harm and damages. Hence, it’s a crucial measure when utilizing a boat grill. You will only need to remember a few of the the following procedures or safety tips:

• Check its toughness before using.
• Keep an eye on the boat grill the entire time it’s used for cooking.
• Make sure that the grill is static, so it won’t tip over.
• Turn off the grill once you finish cooking.
• The flame should be downside from you and flammable objects.
• The best area to cook is above the deck. Avoid doing it in an enclosed area as it might cause lethal results when carbon monoxide gathers. Also, keep in mind that it should be out of children’s reach.
• Prepare a bottle of water and cut the fatty portion beforehand to prevent flare ups.

Conclusion

To complete your water cruising experience, food is a must. Hence, you need the best boat grill to prepare warm meals. To keep your foods more fresh, you can prepare marine coolers or marine refrigerators to put your foods on. Don’t forget, when your stomach is filled with goodness, you will have wonderful water adventures!

Jonathan Larson

I am passionate about water sports and technical fields, so combining both makes me interested in making contents about boat accessories. With my partner, we went on many trips and sports games together, which led us to think about how we can spread our joys and passions to many people.