Boat Grills Buying Guide

What is more fun than enjoying fishing on your boat? Of course, grilling some burgers and fries with your loved ones. Do not think it is possible. Boat grills are here to prove you wrong.

While purchasing a boat grill, you have to look into several aspects. You have to ensure that the size is easy to maneuver and portable as you have to carry it to the boat. Fuel efficiency, build quality, and grilling area are some of the other elements you need to study.

At this point, it is ok to feel a little overwhelmed. But don't stress out. We have prepared this guide to aid you in your selection process. We have organized all the useful information in a structured manner so that you can skim through the details quickly.

You will get all the useful details and facts about all the aspects of the product. So, without any further delay, let us begin the hunt to choose the best pick for your expedition.

Something about boat grills

Boating and sailing are always fun, but what makes this fun more delightful? Well, some grilling, of course! Boat grills are always enjoyable, especially when you are with friends or loved ones.

Imagine the smell of delicious fresh-caught fish on the griller after a long tiring day at sea. You can cook a variety of food while enjoying the open water and make your boating experience memorable.

Grilling is popular and in demand as one of the most favorite activities people like these days. If you are a boat owner, you must invest in the best boat grill so that you can cherish your boating and sailing experience more delightfully.

When it comes to buying a boat grill, there are several factors to search for before purchasing the more suitable boat grill for you.

There are different varieties of boat grills available in the market, making the need to make the best choice while considering your requirements to enjoy your sailing with the great grilled food.

Types of Boat Grills

Food becomes downright delectable when outdoors or just out of your grill. However, it is vital to ensure safety first. You should be careful about which grill you are going to buy and how safe it is. Boat grill comes in different basic types; however, quite varied forms. Here is some other kind of boat grill.

1. Charcoal

A fresh fish or steak cooked over charcoal has its unique taste. However, it is a quick method for all impatient eaters and those who aim for instant gratification.

Almost every grill comes with the lighting details so you can adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations.

One thing you must keep in mind when you are grilling with the charcoal, always make sure that whenever the grill gets swung, the boat is cleared off.

In this way, hot ashes will go in the water rather than staying on the deck. It is useful as if it stays on the boat; it would cost severe damage to the boat or, in the worst condition, can ignite a fire.

Charcoal grill's food might taste incredible, but the only con is that you need to keep it dry or be quite troublesome when spilling off.

2. Electric

As the name indicates, you might get the idea that you need electricity for this boat grill. If you have electricity onboard and can bear about 2000 W, then this is great for you to choose from.

It is faster than the charcoal or gas grill, you don't need to deal with gas canisters, and it is relatively safer.

You might have electricity on your boat, but buying this grill can impact your budget, which means it is a bit pricey than the gas grill.

3. Gas

Gas grills are specially made for boats and are now the most popular and widely available for onboard uses. Different sizes may vary from small to all the large models, sufficient to feed the onboard crew.

Having a gas grill for your boat comes with numerous advantages. It is pocket friendly, fast, and the safest option to choose.

You only need to take a 1lb gas canister, and you can enjoy your onboard grilling with the family and loved ones.

Gas grills may be the premium choice for a plethora of boaters; it is obvious to know its reason. Because of the easy availability, smaller bottles are being used to ensure ease of storing whenever the grill packs away.

Factors to consider while selecting appropriate Boat Grills

Materials and Build Quality

When it comes to grilling, performance is the primary concern for most people. Specific questions pop into their mind. Is there any kind of specific material I need to consider? What conducts heat better? Do I need to clean it every time I use it?

Most of the grills are made up of sheet metal, cast iron, stainless steel, or cast aluminum. You need to be very careful about stainless steel since not all stainless steel is built equally.

If you need performance and durability, you should choose both the frame and grill body to be made from stainless steel.

Generally, higher quality grills have either cast iron, steel, or a combination of both. These types of grills are durable and easily maintained and last for many years. But if you are looking for heat, then stainless is the best choice to make.

Before purchasing a boat barbeque grill, you need to ensure that the grill is appropriate for being out there on the water.

If you are planning to go to the sea, then there are high chances that the grill will come into contact with seawater then there are high chances of the danger of the rust that it can bring.

Stainless steel grill is the best to choose for a boat grill. Because they have lids and doms for more heat efficiency and excellent cooking temperature control, it is effortless to clean and operate.

Different marine barbecues are designed with the stainless steel double liner internally and safeguard against grease leaks or even discoloration.

Grills that are made up of stainless less are much more resilient and durable and can withstand harsh elements like wind, rain, sun, and salt. Those who search for low maintenance, high performance, long-lasting boat grills should consider stainless steel.

Size

The cooking area has always been expressed in square inches. But when it comes to boat grill, people often get confused about the size. What size griller do I need for the boat grill?

The core reason affecting a grill's size is its cooking area. But you are looking for a boat grill, so the main thing you need to give focus on is to check the boat area. You should check how big is your boat area where you are going to install the grill.

Most people live in a myth; the more significant the grill is, the more they can cook. But when it comes to a boat grill, you should first analyze the area you will install and then decide to purchase one.

No one will suggest buying a bigger one because they consume more space and make more trouble in the movement. The fact that boat grills are meant to be small is portable and can quickly move anywhere.

Fuel Efficiency

Boat grills are mainly fueled by using charcoal, propane, or even natural gas. Many purists can have a specific preference for charcoal grills for the ritual of building a fire and food flavor.

Gas grills are said to have more elements and are a bit expensive. However, they are a top choice for many people owing to their high convenience. But when it lowers down to fuel efficiency, liquid propane is renowned for being a standard type of fuel.

The Hearth Patio and Barbecue Association reported that about 98% of gas grill uses propane fuel.

Because liquid propane tanks are more efficient and can be acquired at many different locations, including hardware and grocery stores. It can be relocated without any problem and uses propane tanks rather than highly affordable gas lines. Which means one can easily afford it.

Grill Housings and Frames

With strong protection against the heat, the grill also needs to withstand the sea's harsh weather conditions. As the weather change in the blink of an eye at sea, it is vital to protect your grill from the harsh elements.

Proper housings and frames can elevate the threshold of the grill against these elements. Strong winds, rust, moss are some of the dangerous eaters ready to destroy and ruin your grill.

A sturdy hood and handle, welded frames will add an extra layer of protection, and you can keep your grill safe from these elements for a long time.

Wind-Resistance

A windy day can undoubtedly give you some challenges to grilling the big feast. Sometimes it is hard to enjoy a barbeque on a boat grill; it might be because of some unwanted weather conditions or because of the wind resistance power of your boat grill.

Some grills will flounder when someone sneezes, while other grill models will go with wind flow and can cause trouble. Before buying a boat grill, you need to consider how effectively the boat grill stands up to the wind.

Because when you are sailing on the boat, there are no houses, walls, or trees to block the boat's wind. All you have there is only water, so you need to take all the security checks before buying any boat grill.

So you need to think twice before making any purchase of a boat grill; if you have already considered the one, then make sure you get a boat grill that can hold the load of wind.

Portability

Potability is the first thing that you should check before buying a boat grill. You will find a variety of grills in the market. Some are designed to be used in multiple scenarios like beach or campaign, while other grills are specifically designed for a boat.

It means you have a choice depending on what you are looking for. Buying a portable boat grill is the best to go with. But again, you will find a different option in a portable grill.

Some grills come small in size but can be easily fitted anywhere on the boat, while others can be folded down with easy-carry handles and can be moveable anywhere.

So choosing the one can be a bit difficult. But you can select the one by considering the boat's

pace. Pick the one that is portable and can also fit easily on the boat.

Warranty

Getting a good warranty on a product is essential to ensure that you are getting a great quality product. Also, it provides you a sense of security and peace of mind. After purchasing, if the product's quality is not up to the mark, you can return it or replace it under the warranty guidelines.

If you purchase a more expensive product, this becomes more important because of the replacement cost. It also builds trust.

If the company is offering you a good warranty, this means they believe in the quality of the product they have made.

If you are not getting benefits from a warranty after purchasing a product, you need to be sure that they are giving you a quality product.

Stand

To enjoy a hassle-free barbeque, you need a boat grill that needs stability. And for a regular grill, you need a grill stand that can provide you a fantastic hassle-free grilling experience.

The boat floats on the water even if it is not moving, so if your grill keeps moving with the boat, you can barely cook anything. In that case, you must have the unit attached to the railing on the boat.

Some boat grills come with such an attachment where you will get an attached stand with the grill to make your life very easy.

You should check if your grill is getting the same attachment option or not. If not, you can consider the one with the same or buy a separate stand to cherish your sailing moments. Once you stabilize your grill, you can relish a barbecue while boating.

Grilling Area

Typical 3-burner gas grills have a cooking area of about 450 to 500 square inches that is quite enough for all ordinary households.

But you can't expect that from a small or portable grill. So you need to consider how much you would grill on a regular grill.

Don't forget you will grill on a boat, and your griller has a limited area. For instance, 160 square inches is sufficient for eight mid-size burgers, some stakes, and chicken breast.

Maintaining your Boat Grills

We cherish every small thing that needs maintenance, be it the boat grill, our boat, or anything that needs to be taken care of. It is perfect to have a boat and boat grill, but even if you have purchased the most expensive boat grill, it must be appropriately maintained.

Selling on the boat, enjoying a barbeque on the boat is the thing that everyone wants. Protecting this thing is even more critical. So keeping the grill in a well-maintained condition is vital. Here some of the tips to help you maintain your boat grill.

1. Internal Cleaning

Internal cleaning of the boat grill can be messy sometimes, mostly when the grill is fixed to the boat and greasy. It can create an unsanitary situation for you. And the worst part is the boat is outside all the time, and there are high chances that it attracts bugs and other pests.

To avoid this situation, you need to clean the grill's interior after every use and make sure to clean the removable grease tray. You can take the help of a wire brush to remove the food layers and use lemon or soapy water to get rid of the greasy area.

2. External cleaning

The boat grill's interior and exterior need to be clean, mostly when your boat spends a lot of time on saltwater like the sea. You should know that salt is extremely corrosive and can even impact stainless steel.

So you should also clean the grill external after every use. It's better to use the protective cover for the grill, but if you don't have one, then make sure that you carefully wipe the grill every time you use it.

3. Cleaning the Rail

When you attach the grill with a rail along the outside edge of the boat, it keeps it out of the way to lessen fire risk. But Greece often spatters up from the grill and lands on the rail and surrounding the area. Make sure you are cleaning it afterward that you clean the rail thoroughly.

Safety Tips While Using Boat Grills

Safety should be the first thing you need to consider before buying a boat grill. It is good to have a boat grill, but you should also remember to stay safe. Because being careless with a grill onboard may cause trouble or hurt you or even damage your boat. Here are some of the essential safety tips which you should consider while using the grill.

1. The first thing you need to care about is to keep the grill away from flammables- you do not unit your marine fuel tank near grills.
2. During the time of cooking, never leave the grill unattended for any reason.
3. It would help if you waited for the grill to cool down properly before putting it away.
4. To avoid burns due to splatters and pops, make sure to use long-handled barbecue utensils like forks and tongs.
5. Always wear grill-safe clothes; you should avoid speedos, thongs, or any other loose clothes that will easily catch fire.
6. Always read the grill manual because it will help you find information on everything from assembly to safeguard options tips.

FAQs

Is propane gas a practical fuel for the grills?

Yes, propane gas is a safe fuel. It can be stored in tanks, which increases the portability and usage of gas. It provides the necessary heat and has a low cost.

With several storage options and no shortage in supply, you will never run out of gas. All you need to ensure that you pack enough for the trip.

How can I safely add a grill to the boat?

Here are some tips to follow:

1. Check all the connections before using the grill on the boat.
2. Always keep the grill away from the fuel supply. Also, make sure that there is a safe distance between the grill and other parts of the boat
3. Never leave the grill unattended. Make sure that the grill is not running when you have completed your cooking.
4. Never put away the grill when it is hot. Let it cool down before storing it. Also, keep your essential supplies away from the gill when it is hot.

My boat is not long enough. Should I add a grill to it?

Generally, a boat with a length above 20 feet can accommodate the grill without any safety issues. Anything below it can cause accidents and hazards.

Also, it is very challenging with small boats to maintain a safe distance between the grill and all the other machine parts. So, think carefully before adding a grill to your boat and perform every safety check.

Wrap Up

Enjoying hot food on the sea on a hot summer day is now possible with efficient boat grills. Here in this guide, you will get all the essential details about the product.

We have dissected every aspect of the grills and laid out the pointers in the simplest way possible. You will get everything regarding the product. Make sure you go through the maintenance and cleaning tips, as they will come in handy while cleaning your grill.

With everything under your possession, lookout for the best pick and enjoy your coming expedition.