Bayliner VR4 Review

Established in 1957, Bayliner is the largest boat manufacturer in the world with more than 400 dealers in 60 different countries. The company didn’t get to be number one in the world without learning a thing or two about what boating families want, and that’s clearly apparent when you step aboard the delightful Bayliner VR4.

The latest and smallest model in the company’s VR series of contemporary bowriders, the VR4 might just be the ultimate value for first-time buyers, being easy to tow, easy to launch, easy store and really fun to use.

In spite of its trim 18-foot, 10-inch overall length, the VR4 is a spacious and roomy boat thanks to Bayliner’s BeamForward design, which carries the boat’s full width forward of the windshield for more comfort and capacity than what we’re used to seeing on boats with traditional pointed bows. In the case of the VR4, Bayliner further added its AftAdvantage design to substantially increase the rear seating area. Inside, the VR4 seems a whole lot bigger than it looks from the dock, while providing plenty of extra space to stow safety gear, coolers and more.

Bayliner’s BeamForward design provides more space in the bow for greater passenger comfort.

As part of the VR series, the Bayliner VR4 comes in a choice of outboard or sterndrive power – choose the sterndrive version if you want an open stern and full-width swim platform, or pick the outboard if you prefer more interior space. Both offer similar driving performance, and both come with the same standard features.

Both versions share the same wide bow, with its inviting seating area. Twin lounge seats on each side are comfortable with nicely balanced cushions and sift upholstery that stays surprisingly cool in the sun. Add an optional filler cushion here to convert this space into an expansive sun pad, or go all out and also add an available center back rest to create three-across, forward-facing seating here. There’s quite a bit or storage space under the seat cushions, while the seat backs are just the right height to provide full support and security when underway.

Main cockpit seating is on a wrap-around Hot Tub-style lounger.

In the main cockpit you’ll find a comfy passenger seat facing a large protective console, complete with a large storage compartment below and a glove box up top  for stowing small valuables. The helm seat sits on a 180-degree swivel base, and faces an attractive helm console complete with multi-function gauges featuring fog-resistant glass lenses, including a speedometer, tachometer, voltmeter and fuel gauge. There’s also a waterproof 120-watt AM/FM stereo with MP3 capability, and a 120-volt accessory outlet. A custom sport steering wheel with a tilt function comes as standard equipment.

In-floor storage handles skis, wakeboards and other bulky gear.

In between the consoles you’ll notice a large door in the floor which opens to reveal a large in-floor ski locker that’s large enough to accommodate most popular wakeboards as well. That’s because the VR4 loves to show its fun side, as evidenced by the aft swim platform with its telescopic boarding ladder. Bayliner offers a ski pylon as a popular option, but for real fun splurge and get the available Xtream wake tower, complete with an integrated Bimini top. Just add some wakeboard racks and you’re all set for hours of fun.

The large passenger console offers a glove box up top and a large storage compartment in the side for coolers and other bulky items.

Cockpit seating is identical in both outboard and sterndrive versions of this boat, with a full wrap-around Hot Tub-style seat that allows tremendous versatility.

The Bayliner VR4 comes well equipped in its standard form, but an inviting option list does include some appealing upgrades. Apart from the aforementioned tower and bow filler cushion, buyers might like to consider an available cockpit table, or add Bayliner’s Fishing Package, complete with an aerated live well, a MotorGuide trolling motor, a Lowrance Elite 3x fishfinder and a bow casting platform with a fishing seat.

Choose the outboard version of the VR4 for the most interior space, or select the sterndrive version for its full-width sunpad and swim platform. Note optional tower.

A nicely appointed family bowrider, the Bayliner VR4 comes ready to enjoy with your choice of outboard or sterndrive power. With its spacious interior, comfortable seating and tremendous value, this is one runabout that’s sure to please even the most demanding boaters.