2008 Bayliner 185 Bowrider
$7,500
Boat in SPRINGFIELD, IL US
Built in 2008
185 Bowrider
1 Engine (Mercruiser)
18 feet
Gas
Other
Key Specifications & Features:
Capacity: Rated for 7 to 8 people.
Fuel Capacity: 28 gallons (106 liters).
Draft: 1' 8" (min) to 3' (max).
Performance: Cruising speeds around 25 knots, with max speeds approaching 50 mph with upgraded engines.
Features: Often equipped with an extended swim platform, stainless steel boarding ladder, transom ski tow eye, and power steering.
Seating: Typically includes a driver's bucket seat, passenger back-to-back lounger, and aft jump seats that convert to a sun pad Engine Type: 3.0 l MerCruiser® Alpha I (135 hp)
Engine Horsepower: 135 hp
Displacement: 3.0 l
Length Overall: 18 ft.0 in. (5.49 m)
Beam: Beam With Trailer: 7 ft.9 in. (2.36 m); Beam: 7 ft.7 in. (2.31 m)
Draft: Draft hull: 1 ft. 8 in. (.51 m); Draft max: 3 ft. 0 in. (.91 m)
Dry Weight: Approximate weight w/standard engine with Trailer: 2,895 lbs (1,313 kg); Approximate weight w/standard engine: 2,235 lbs (1,014 kg)
Fuel Capacity: 28 gal. (106 l)
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 5/19/26 | Initial price | $7,500 |
Boattest.com Review
Overview
The Bayliner 185 is an 18-foot bowrider designed to offer a balance of performance, comfort, and versatility in a compact package. With a beam of 7 feet 7 inches and a draft of 3 feet 1 inch, this model features a hull with a 19-degree deadrise at the transom, which is relatively deep for its size and contributes to a smooth ride through light chop. The boat's design includes a sharp V bow entry, lifting strakes along the hull, and a reverse chine, all intended to enhance stability, reduce spray, and improve handling.
Exterior Design and Cockpit
The Bayliner 185's hull incorporates a three-inch chine at midship, which effectively deflects spray downward and increases stability, especially at slow speeds and during turns. The cockpit is spacious for a boat of this size, thanks to the beam-forward design, with an average depth of 33.5 inches. Optional features include two matching swivel bucket seats with padded bolsters and durable double stitching, which rotate 180 degrees to provide clear views aft. Storage is ample, with a large index locker secured by stainless steel latches for ski gear and water toys. The optional snap-in carpet enhances comfort underfoot. On the port console, there is a lockable glove box, MP3 player inputs, a waterproof 120-watt AM/FM stereo, and a stainless steel cup holder.
Helm and Instrumentation
The helm station is thoughtfully designed with a non-glare brow protecting a straightforward array of analog gauges in black and silver, including fuel, oil pressure, speedometer, tachometer, trim, and volt meters. The padded steering wheel complements the rack and pinion power steering system, which provides responsive and precise handling both at slow speeds during docking and at higher speeds on the water. The steering wheel features tilt adjustment as a standard feature, enhancing operator comfort.
Power and Performance
The test boat was equipped with an optional carbureted MerCruiser 4.3-liter TKS engine delivering 190 horsepower, paired with a MerCruiser Alpha One outdrive. The engine compartment is accessible via a gas-assisted hatch cover, with the battery box located port side alongside additional storage space. During testing, the Bayliner 185 reached a top speed of 46.2 miles per hour at 4,500 RPM. It accelerated onto plane in 3.8 seconds and reached 30 miles per hour in 10.9 seconds. The boat trims easily, with optimal performance achieved at approximately one-quarter trim on the console gauge. Excessive trim causes bow oscillation and speed loss, which can be corrected by lowering the trim. The hull demonstrated excellent handling characteristics, leaning into turns with responsiveness and stability. It performed well in choppy conditions without chine walking or side-to-side oscillation, maintaining safety and control even during aggressive maneuvers. The Alpha One drive also provided strong reverse thrust, facilitating confident and precise docking.
Conclusion
The Bayliner 185 offers a well-rounded package for operators seeking a reliable and easy-to-handle bowrider in the 18-foot class. Its hull design delivers a smooth and stable ride, while the cockpit layout and optional seating provide comfort and functionality. Powered by a capable 190-horsepower engine, the boat accelerates quickly and handles confidently in various conditions. The combination of thoughtful design elements and solid performance makes the Bayliner 185 a dependable choice for recreational boating, water sports, and day cruising.
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| $7,500 | $7,500 | $6,499 | $5,995 | $3,995 | $11,995 |
| SPRINGFIELD | Springfield | Mchenry | Fox Lake | Raymond | Round Lake |
| 18' | 18' | 18' | 17' | 20' | 20' |
| Mercruiser | - | - | - | MERCRUISER | MERCRUISER |
| - | - | - | - | - | 220 hp |
| 1 | 229 | 5 | 341 | 1453 | 279 |
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Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact Lake Springfield Marina about 2008 Bayliner 185 Bowrider
17 Waters Edge Boulevard, Springfield, IL, 62712
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