Xpress Boats – Technical and Historical Guide

ABOUT THIS BOAT BRAND

Xpress Boats is an American boat manufacturer renowned for pioneering the original all-welded, all-aluminum fishing boat and transforming the aluminum segment since its founding in 1966 in Friendship, Arkansas. Family owned for three generations and now based in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Xpress Boats built the first all-welded aluminum hull at a time when riveted construction dominated, then reshaped performance expectations in the late 1980s with its Hyper-Lift padded hull that brought fiberglass-like speed and handling to aluminum craft. The company has grown into a 250,000 sq ft facility employing more than 200 skilled workers and is widely recognized as a leader in high-performance aluminum bass and bay boats, with models like the H20Bay ranking among the best-selling 20-foot aluminum bay boats in the United States. This long history of innovation, combined with consistently rigorous construction standards and broad dealer distribution, positions Xpress Boats as a trusted name in the North American marine industry for serious anglers and multipurpose boaters alike.

Specializing in outboard-powered freshwater and inshore boats, Xpress Boats focuses on serious bass anglers, coastal and bay fishermen, and multispecies sportsmen who demand durable, easy-to-maintain platforms. Its lineup centers on Hyper-Lift bass boats such as the X21 Pro, Hyper-Lift Bay models like the H20Bay, and versatile Xplorer and Skiff series that can serve as center console fishing boats, hunting rigs, or work platforms. Across these aluminum pad-hull and hydro-dynamic hull designs, the brand integrates features such as all-aluminum longitudinal rib and unibody construction, all-welded decks and subfloors, .100 to .125 gauge hull plating, closed-cell expandable foam for buoyancy and noise reduction, and advanced non-skid surfaces like Xtreme Coat and SeaDek for quiet, stable casting decks ideal for tournament fishing or shallow inshore work. Combined with layouts optimized for livewells, rod storage, and electronics, this specialization in all-welded aluminum bass, bay, and hunting boats makes Xpress Boats a preferred choice for anglers and outdoorsmen seeking blue-collar toughness with high-performance handling.

WHAT MAKES THIS BOAT BRAND SPECIAL?

Xpress Boats stands out as the original all‑welded aluminum fishing boat brand, pairing rugged Hyper-Lift® and X-Bay hull designs with precision-engineered pad bottoms that deliver fast hole shots, outstanding fuel efficiency, and a remarkably dry, stable ride. Instead of rivets, every Xpress Boats hull is fully welded from high-grade aluminum, creating a lighter, stronger structure that shrugs off stumps, rock, and shallow-water abuse while maintaining tight, rattle-free performance season after season. The brand’s carefully tuned hull geometries, integrated longitudinal ribs, and full-length keels help Xpress Boats track true in chop, corner confidently, and stay on plane at lower speeds so anglers and families can run farther with less power. Thoughtful layouts with massive casting decks, lockable rod storage, aerated livewells, and clean rigging for today’s electronics make each Xpress Boats model a serious fish-catching platform that is equally at home chasing bass on inland lakes or redfish on the flats.

From its modern facility in Arkansas, Xpress Boats combines advanced aluminum fabrication with a skilled workforce that has spent decades perfecting the art of building tough, quiet, high-performance fishing rigs. Craftsmen at Xpress Boats hand-fit components, weld structural supports, and apply durable finishes that protect the all-aluminum hulls from corrosion and hard use, while premium features like welded-in foam flotation, high-quality wiring, marine-grade hardware, and tournament-ready livewell systems reflect a commitment to long-term reliability. Xpress Boats models are engineered to meet or exceed U.S. Coast Guard regulations and NMMA/ABYC standards, and are backed by strong hull warranties that give owners added confidence at purchase and throughout ownership. The result is a boat line widely respected for rock-solid build quality, smart fishability, and lasting value, with many owners praising how their Xpress Boats feel like custom rigs that punch well above their price point in performance, durability, and pride of ownership.

WHAT DIFFERENT TYPES OF BOATS DOES THIS BOAT BRAND BUILD?

Xpress Boats is a respected aluminum boat manufacturer offering a versatile range of performance-focused fishing and hunting boats, primarily powered by outboard engines. While specific model sizes are not detailed here, the brand is known for building compact, agile hulls for shallow water as well as larger, more capable rigs for serious anglers and sportsmen. Their lineup spans key categories such as bass boats, bay boats, crappie boats, catfish boats, hunting boats, and multi-species fishing platforms, all designed for durability, speed, and fishability. With all-welded construction and smart fishing layouts, Xpress Boats appeals to boaters who demand rugged reliability in fresh and inshore saltwater environments. Below are the types of boats and models Xpress Boats builds, along with their key characteristics and uses:

• (Bay Boats Xpress’s Hyper-Lift Bay Series) are all-welded aluminum center-console bay boats aimed at inshore and near-shore anglers who want shallow draft and big-boat performance in a lighter package. Built on the brand’s pad-style Hyper-Lift hull, the lineup spans the 18-foot H18B up through the 20’3” H20B, 22’ H22B, and 24’ H24B, all on a 95" beam with 24" sides and 22" transom height. These boats share a self-bailing deck, expansive front and rear casting platforms, rear jump seats with storage beneath, and large aerated livewells, plus lockable rod boxes and trolling-motor-ready bows. Foam-injected 0.125-gauge 5052 aluminum hulls and longitudinal rib construction deliver rigidity and durability, while outboard power ranges from 115 hp on the H18B and H20B up to 250 hp on the H24B, with 18–40 gallons of fuel capacity depending on model. Hyper-Lift Bays are optimized for sight-casting redfish, trout, and other inshore species, yet offer enough freeboard and fuel to fish big bays and moderate coastal chop, positioning them as high-performance aluminum alternatives to fiberglass bay boats.

• (Bay Boats The X-Bay and X-Bay Lounge Series) sit at the top of Xpress’s saltwater range, delivering big-water capability and comfort on an aluminum pad hull. Built on a 102" beam with a 78" bottom and 28" sides, the X21B (21’) and X23B (23’) are designed for coastal and near-offshore runs, with higher freeboard, 75-gallon fuel tanks, and maximum ratings up to 200 hp on the X21B and 300 hp on the X23B. The X23B Lounge and X23B Lounge Dual add elevated family features—forward loungers, wraparound cockpit seating, and entertainment-friendly layouts—while retaining a serious fishing stance with large casting decks, multiple livewells, abundant rod storage, and integrated trolling-motor rigging. All models use .125-gauge 5052 all-welded construction with injected foam, delivering a rigid, quiet ride compared with typical riveted aluminum bays. With capacities up to 9–10 passengers, self-bailing decks, and the option for twin outboards on the Lounge Dual (up to 300 hp combined), these boats bridge hardcore inshore/coastal fishing and family cruising, sandbar duty, and light watersports in a single, offshore-leaning aluminum platform.

• (Bass Boats Xpress’s Xclusive Pro Bass Series) targets tournament-level freshwater anglers who want fiberglass-like performance in an all-welded aluminum bass rig. The X19 Pro (19’) and X21 Pro (21’) share a 95" beam and 67" bottom on Xpress’s Hyper-Lift bass hull, using .125-gauge 5052 aluminum with injected foam for strength and a quiet, solid feel. Both carry 40 gallons of fuel and are rated for 150–200 hp on the X19 Pro and 150–250 hp on the X21 Pro, with overall package lengths (including engine and BackTrack trailer) of about 24’2” and 26’10” respectively. Layouts emphasize front-deck fishability, with expansive elevated casting decks, dual aerated livewells sized for tournament limits, lockable rod and tackle storage, recessed trolling-motor pedal wells, and factory rigging for modern electronics and trolling motors. Passenger capacity is four, reflecting their competition focus. Compared with many aluminum bass boats, the Xclusive Pros are positioned as high-performance, feature-rich platforms capable of running big reservoirs and rivers at speed while remaining shallow enough for creek arms and stump fields.

Beyond bay and bass offerings, Xpress builds a broad array of specialized aluminum fishing, hunting, and utility boats that leverage the same all-welded, foam-injected 5052 construction. Skiff models are wide-beam, shallow-draft open boats tailored to flats, marshes, and protected bays, with simple, spacious layouts ideal for poling, casting, or running trotlines. Crappie and panfish rigs typically feature dual bow fishing stations, multiple livewells, and seating arrangements optimized for spider-rigging and vertical jigging on reservoirs. Catfish boats use open, heavy-duty foredecks, rugged non-skid liners, and livewells sized for big river blues and flatheads. Hunting and duck boats—as well as more utilitarian jon-style rigs—prioritize low-profile camo hulls, open floors, gun and decoy storage, and options such as grab rails, bowfishing decks, and surface-drive or outboard setups. Most of these models land in the 16–20-foot range and are outboard powered, offering shallow running, easy trailering, and multipurpose utility for anglers, waterfowlers, and workboat users who need durable, no-frills aluminum platforms.

HOW ARE THESE BOATS BUILT?

Xpress Boats are built around an all‑welded 5052 marine‑grade aluminum hull, with no rivets or wood in the structure for maximum durability and corrosion resistance. Hull plating typically ranges from .080 to .125 gauge aluminum, matched to the demands of each series and paired with application‑specific running surfaces such as the Hyper‑Lift and Shallow Water hulls. Instead of a traditional fiberglass stringer grid, Xpress employs a longitudinal rib stringer system in welded aluminum, where closely spaced T‑6 extruded ribs run fore and aft and are tied into the transom, chines, and keel to create a rigid unibody structure. Structural reinforcements include all‑aluminum decks, floors, subfloors, transoms, and rails, eliminating rot‑prone substrates while distributing impact loads throughout the hull. Every void below deck is filled with premium closed‑cell, environmentally friendly expandable polyurethane foam, providing upright level flotation, additional panel stiffness, and noise dampening while helping the boats meet or exceed applicable USCG and ABYC flotation and capacity guidelines. Weld sequences, material thicknesses, and structural details are engineered in CAD to align with industry best practices that support NMMA‑style construction standards, even though the boats are aluminum rather than fiberglass. Exterior surfaces receive a high‑build primer followed by custom‑formulated marine coatings, camo finishes, or textured deck liners instead of gelcoat, ensuring excellent adhesion to aluminum and long‑term UV and abrasion resistance. The lamination phase found in composite boats is effectively replaced by Xpress’s all‑welded aluminum fabrication and unibody injected‑foam process, and hull‑to‑deck integrity is achieved with continuous perimeter welding, internal bulkhead ties, and mechanically fastened cap components that lock the upper structure to the hull shell as a single, integrated unit.

Above the hull, Xpress specifies marine‑grade hardware throughout, including 300‑series stainless steel fasteners, heavy‑duty aluminum cleats, welded grab rails, and anodized accessories designed to handle repeated trailering and high‑load fishing use. Electrical systems are rigged using tinned marine‑grade copper wire, heat‑shrink connectors, and circuit protection that follow ABYC electrical practices, while fuel and livewell plumbing utilize USCG‑approved hose, reinforced thru‑hulls, and properly supported routing to minimize chafe and vibration. Interior comfort and durability are addressed with UV‑stabilized marine vinyl upholstery, high‑density foam cushions, SeaDek or Xtreme Coat non‑skid deck surfacing, and carpet specified for wet, high‑traffic environments. Manufacturing is driven by modern CAD design and CNC or plasma cutting of 5052 aluminum components, ensuring tight tolerances before each hull is hand‑welded by experienced fabricators using MIG processes tuned for marine structures. Construction techniques center on all‑welded, longitudinal‑rib, unibody injected‑foam construction rather than riveted seams or wood‑cored structures, delivering a stiffer, quieter platform that resists fatigue over years of use. Quality control includes dimensional checks of hull fairness, weld inspection, foam fill verification, systems testing, and final rigging review so that each Xpress boat meets or surpasses common industry benchmarks for aluminum fishing and hunting boats. A transferable lifetime structural warranty on hull and transom welds underscores that these construction methods are engineered for long‑term safety and durability, not just showroom appeal. Overall, the Xpress Boats build philosophy is to combine aircraft‑style all‑aluminum fabrication with purpose‑designed hulls, modern engineering, and rigorous quality assurance to deliver a robust, low‑maintenance boat that stands out in the all‑welded aluminum segment.

WHERE ARE THESE BOATS BUILT?

Xpress Boats are built exclusively in the United States at the company’s state of the art manufacturing facility in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where all-welded aluminum bass, bay, skiff, crappie, hunting, catfish and utility models are produced under one roof. This family owned and third generation operated brand, headquartered at 199 Extrusion Place in Hot Springs, controls every phase of boat manufacturing at this single campus to ensure consistency across the Xpress lineup. The modern plant encompasses approximately 250,000 square feet of production, warehousing and administrative space and supports a workforce of more than 200 skilled employees spread across multiple specialized departments. Operating as an independent marine manufacturer focused solely on the Xpress name, the facility is dedicated to high volume, high quality aluminum boat production for customers across the United States and international markets.

Production of Xpress Boats in Arkansas dates back to 1966, when the company began building aluminum boats in a small schoolhouse in Friendship, Arkansas, before sustained growth led to the relocation of headquarters and primary manufacturing to Hot Springs in 2000. Rather than expanding through acquisitions or mergers, Xpress has grown organically by enlarging and modernizing its own manufacturing facility, increasing floor space over the decades to the current 250,000 square foot footprint that accommodates distinct fabrication, welding, rigging, paint and final assembly zones for different series such as Hyper Lift, Xclusive Pro and Xplorer. Within the plant, raw 5052 aluminum alloy sheet is received and cut in dedicated fabrication areas, then moved through progressive welding cells and hull jig stations organized by model family to keep production flow efficient while maintaining tight tolerances. Subsequent sections of the facility handle foam injection, subassembly of consoles and decks, application of proprietary coatings and paints in controlled booths and ovens, and final rigging where engines, electrical systems, steering, livewells and accessories are installed and tested. The Hot Springs location offers geographic advantages including access to a skilled regional workforce, proximity to major highway corridors for dealer distribution throughout the central and southern United States, and nearby freshwater lakes that support on water evaluation of hull performance and handling.

Quality control at the Xpress Boats manufacturing facility is integrated into every stage of production, beginning with inspection of incoming aluminum coil and sheet and continuing through weld integrity checks, dimensional verification of hulls in jigs and documented in process audits on each assembly line. Each boat passes through multiple quality gates where welds are visually examined and non destructive checks are performed as needed, flotation foam density and placement are verified, and electrical, plumbing and steering systems are function tested prior to leaving the line. The company follows structured quality management practices common to leading marine manufacturers, aligning its processes with industry standards and U.S. Coast Guard regulations for flotation, capacity and electrical systems, and every finished hull undergoes a comprehensive water test or simulated tank test to confirm livewell operation, bilge performance and hull tightness. Because all Xpress models are built at the same Hot Springs facility, engineering, production and quality teams share common tooling, jigs and performance data, which allows innovations such as the Hyper Lift padded hull geometry, improved spray rail designs and advanced coating systems to be refined on one model and then applied efficiently across other product families. This single site approach to manufacturing and testing minimizes variability between boats, ensuring that customers receive a consistent level of structural integrity, ride quality and finish regardless of which Xpress series they purchase.

In summary, every Xpress boat is built in one dedicated manufacturing facility in Hot Springs, Arkansas, allowing the company to tightly control production, quality and innovation from the first aluminum cut to final water testing. By keeping all design, fabrication, welding, finishing and rigging in house in the United States, Xpress leverages a highly experienced workforce and a modern 250,000 square foot plant to deliver durable, high performance all welded aluminum boats. The brand’s pride in its Arkansas roots and single site manufacturing model underscores its long term commitment to quality, craftsmanship and consistency in every Xpress boat that leaves the Hot Springs facility.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST BOAT OF THIS BRAND BUILT TODAY?

The largest Xpress Boats model currently in production is the Xpress X24B, an all‑welded aluminum center console bay boat that stretches to 24’0” in length overall with a 95" beam, making it the biggest Xpress bay platform and effectively the flagship of the Hyper‑Lift Bay family. Introduced as the top end of the Hyper‑Lift Bay lineup, the Xpress X24B runs a pad‑style Hyper‑Lift deep/mod‑V hull designed to deliver fast hole‑shot, efficient cruise, and a balance of shallow draft with enough freeboard for bigger bays and near‑offshore conditions. The Xpress X24B is powered by a single outboard, rigged most commonly with a 250 hp engine, which matches its factory maximum horsepower rating of 250 hp for strong top‑end performance and confident midrange punch. With that package, the largest Xpress model is typically set up to run in the upper 40s to low 50s mph at wide‑open throttle depending on load and prop, while offering a comfortable cruising speed range in the upper 20s to mid‑30s mph. A 40‑gallon fuel capacity supports long days working distant flats and bay edges, and the all‑welded, foam‑injected aluminum hull created by Xpress’s in‑house design and manufacturing team provides a rigid, quiet ride that underscores the brand’s reputation as the original high‑performance all‑welded aluminum builder.

Purpose‑built as a serious inshore and near‑shore fishing machine with strong family crossover capability, the Xpress X24B is ideal for chasing redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and similar coastal species while still being comfortable enough for sandbar days and cruising. The biggest Xpress model features expansive elevated casting decks fore and aft, multiple aerated livewells for bait and catch management, insulated fish boxes, abundant flush‑mount and vertical rod holders, and lockable rod lockers sized for today’s longer inshore and bass rods. Comfort is central to the Xpress X24B, with forward and aft seating, fold‑away jump seats integrated into the rear casting deck, and an ergonomic helm that can be optioned with leaning post seating, integrated tackle storage, and a hard or soft T‑top. The console is designed to house modern electronics, with space for large multi‑function displays, GPS/chartplotter, sonar, and engine data, plus switching and audio controls within easy reach. Under‑deck storage and dedicated compartments keep safety gear, tackle, and personal items dry and organized, while wide walkaround space and a non‑skid interior promote confident movement when fishing with a full crew. As Xpress Boats’ flagship and largest Hyper‑Lift Bay model, the Xpress X24B showcases the brand’s maximum capability in size, performance, and fishability, sitting at the very top of the Xpress lineup for anglers who want the most water, range, and versatility in an all‑welded aluminum bay boat.

WHAT IS THE SMALLEST BOAT OF THIS BRAND BUILT TODAY?

The smallest model in Xpress Boats's current lineup is the HD15DBX, a compact 15 foot aluminum duck and hunting boat with a 66 inch beam, an approximate hull weight of just 545 pounds, and a maximum outboard rating of 40 horsepower that keeps it light, simple, and highly maneuverable for shallow water use and tight backwater runs while still carrying a practical load for serious hunting and fishing trips. As an entry level hunting and utility rig in the Xpress lineup, the HD15DBX is purpose built for waterfowlers and outdoorsmen who want the benefits of Xpress’s all welded 5052 aluminum construction and Hydro Dynamic hull in the smallest, easiest to own package, and its modest weight and overall package length of about 19 feet 6 inches on the BackTrack single axle aluminum trailer make it an easy boat to trailer behind a mid size SUV or half ton truck, simple to launch at smaller ramps, and convenient to store in most standard residential garages or side yards, which is a major advantage for new boaters or experienced hunters looking for a no nonsense, go anywhere aluminum boat that does not require special tow vehicles or storage solutions.

The Xpress HD15DBX is a rugged, open layout aluminum duck boat and jon style hunting rig with a simple, functional interior built around a lowered front deck with lockable storage, an enclosed rear “K” style deck, a full aluminum floor, and room to move decoy bags, dogs, and gear without clutter, giving waterfowlers and river anglers a stable, confidence inspiring platform in a compact 15 foot package. With a seating capacity of three persons and a maximum persons weight rating of about 423 pounds, the HD15DBX is most comfortable for two hunters plus a dog or a couple of anglers, yet it is USCG rated to safely carry its full three person load when properly distributed, and the Hydro Dynamic hull, longitudinal rib structure, and unibody injected foam deliver the solid ride quality and quiet, secure feel that Xpress Boats is known for in rougher backwaters, stump fields, and shallow rivers. The durable Xpress camo paint and Xtreme Coat liner, welded on center keel, and accessory rail system add to the practical hunting and fishing value of the HD15DBX, while the 0.080 gauge 5052 aluminum construction balances strength with light weight so that a 25 to 40 horsepower outboard provides quick hole shot, efficient cruising, and very good fuel economy for long mornings running flooded timber or marsh edges without needing a big fuel tank. Paired with its matched BackTrack single axle aluminum trailer, the HD15DBX tows easily, launches in skinny ramp situations, and fits well into tight storage spaces, making it a smart choice for hunters and anglers who want a purpose built, small aluminum boat that can handle duck seasons, bowfishing nights, and light duty river or bayou fishing while keeping ownership costs, tow requirements, and maintenance simple. For many boating and marine enthusiasts, the HD15DBX represents an ideal entry point into the Xpress Boats family, delivering the brand’s trademark all welded quality, foam injected safety, and shallow draft performance in the smallest footprint, with enough versatility to serve as a year round utility boat for everything from scouting and setting blinds to running trotlines or exploring out of the way creeks and backwaters.

HOW MUCH DO THESE BOATS COST?

Xpress Boats positions itself as a performance oriented yet cost effective aluminum fishing brand, and its pricing reflects a broad spectrum from compact crappie and bass rigs up through 24 foot bay boats. On the new boat side, one of the smallest nationally advertised packages is the XP170 with Yamaha F50, a 17 foot Xplorer Bass model with 60 inch bottom and 18 gallon fuel capacity that carries a current advertised package price around $23,000, while the 17 foot Hyper Lift H17 bass with Yamaha F70 is advertised at about $28,795 and the H18B Hyper Lift Bay with Yamaha F90 is advertised at about $25,395 as standard packages, all excluding TTL, freight, and rigging according to the factory fine print. In today’s market, current listings for smaller Xpress Boats packages and similar 17 to 18 foot crappie and bass rigs typically range from roughly $17,000 to the high $20,000s on the pre owned side, with well equipped late model examples often asking into the low $30,000s when outfitted with upgraded electronics and trolling motors compared to those base national advertised numbers.

In the core mid range where Xpress Boats sees a lot of demand, several popular models have clearly published nationally advertised pricing that helps frame realistic expectations before options. The Hyper Lift Bass H18 with Yamaha VF115 is advertised around $31,995 and the larger H20 Hyper Lift Bass with Yamaha VF175 is listed at $40,995 including a SeaStar steering upgrade, while the Xplorer Bass XP180 and XP200 packages are advertised at roughly $25,000 and low $30,000s respectively as complete boat motor trailer packages, all with the standard disclaimer that these national prices exclude taxes, title, license, freight, and rigging. In real world listings, new or nearly new 18 to 20 foot Xpress bass and bay rigs such as H18B, H18, H20B, H20 and XP200 are currently listed between about $35,000 and $55,000 when they are optioned with larger motors, hydraulic jack plates, upgraded trolling motors, chargers and multi display electronics, and pre owned 3 to 6 year old equivalents in this size band are generally advertised from the mid $20,000s to low $40,000s depending on model year and equipment, often showing an asking market price that sits 25 to 40 percent below what a similarly equipped new boat would cost today.

Higher in the range, Xpress Boats flagship bay models in the Hyper Lift Bay Series carry factory national advertised prices that illustrate how the premium end of the lineup is positioned and how that translates into market value. For the current model year, the H24B with Yamaha VF175 is advertised around $44,995, the H22B with Yamaha VF175 is about $42,295 including a Uflex steering upgrade, and the H20B with Yamaha VF115 is listed near $34,695 as national advertised prices that explicitly exclude TTL, freight and rigging, with factory photos often showing optional Appearance Packages and SeaDek that are not included in the base number. In today’s market, premium Hyper Lift Bay models such as the H24B and H22B along with fully rigged tournament style bass packages generally command asking prices from the mid $40,000s into the $60,000 to $80,000 range when outfitted with higher horsepower Yamaha outboards, dual shallow water anchors, advanced electronics and upgraded trailers, and individual listings show that hours on the engine, level of optional equipment and whether the boat is a current or prior model year can move the market price significantly above or below those published base package figures.

Putting it all together, Xpress Boats pricing spans from nationally advertised entry level packages in the low to mid $20,000s for smaller Xplorer and Hyper Lift crappie and bass models up through advertised pricing in the mid $40,000s for 22 to 24 foot Hyper Lift Bay boats, while actual market listings currently run from roughly the mid teens for older, smaller rigs to the upper $70,000s for the newest and best equipped bay and bass packages. Across the lineup, buyers should remember that factory national advertised prices are not full MSRPs and typically exclude freight, dealer prep, rigging, taxes, title and license, and that common upgrades such as larger outboards, premium trolling motors, advanced sonar GPS packages, SeaDek flooring, appearance packages and hydraulic steering can add many thousands of dollars over the base number before any dealer discounting. In practice, new boat market prices often end up $5,000 to $15,000 above the bare national advertised figure for a comparably optioned package, while dealer promotions can bring a loaded boat’s selling price back down near or just above the published advertised price, and used Xpress rigs often show a 25 to 40 percent gap between an older boat’s asking market price and what a similarly equipped new package would cost. Market prices vary by location, condition, model year, and dealer.

WHAT OTHER STYLES OF BOATS DO THEY MAKE?

Xpress Boats today focuses its lineup around several core aluminum fishing and family boat styles built on their all welded, high performance hulls, including dedicated bass boats, bay boats, skiffs, crappie boats, hunting boats and catfish boats, all powered by outboard engines and designed to stay lightweight, durable and trailer friendly for anglers and outdoorsmen who move between lakes, rivers, marsh and coastal bays. Their bay boat range is one of the most visible pillars of the brand, with center console models like the Hyper Lift Bay Series H20B, H22B and H24B, the H210B and H190B, and the Xplorer CC bay boats such as the XP20CC and XP18CC, all aimed at shallow water and nearshore anglers who want a versatile center console fishing boat that can also serve as a capable family boat for cruising or beach days. In freshwater, Xpress is equally well known for its bass boats, including the Xplorer Bass Series with models like the XP200, XP180 and XP170 that use their Hydro Dynamic hull and big front casting decks to provide a stable, fast bass fishing platform with large storage, livewells and the performance tournament anglers expect. The brand also builds specialized aluminum skiffs designed as simple, open fishing boats with elevated casting platforms, crappie boats with expansive decks, multiple seating positions and dedicated livewell space for panfish, plus hunting and duck boats, catfish models and the newer Bayou Series, giving buyers a broad range of center console, side console and open tiller style fishing boats that all share rugged all welded construction, injected foam flotation and fishing first layouts intended for serious use on everything from stump filled backwaters to open chop.

Beyond the current center console bay boats, bass boats and skiffs in the catalog, Xpress Boats has a long history of aluminum fishing boat designs that has included earlier generations of Xplorer and Hyper Lift hull bass and bay models, crappie and panfish boats, and multiple hunting and duck boat configurations that helped build their reputation as the original all welded aluminum boat builder. Historic bass models and trim levels that predate today’s XP200 or XR series, along with earlier bay designs that have since evolved into the modern Hyper Lift Bay line, were known for combining large front and rear casting decks, side or center console control, integrated rod lockers and livewells, and unibody injected foam into compact packages that could be towed and launched almost anywhere, making them ideal multi species fishing boats before that term became popular. While the current website focuses on today’s series like Bass, Bay, Skiff, Crappie, Hunting, Catfish and the Bayou Series, many discontinued model years and older layouts are still active on the used market, where shoppers will find earlier Xpress bass boats, bay boats and utility hunting rigs that share the same welded aluminum construction and performance minded hulls that define the brand’s heritage, even if specific model names and interior configurations have changed over time.

Although Xpress offers a wide range of fishing boat and hunting boat styles from center consoles and side consoles to open skiffs and crappie rigs, the brand does not compete in segments like pontoon boats, fiberglass bowriders, deck boats, large luxury cruisers, ski or wakeboard boats or yacht sized offshore express cruisers, instead staying focused on performance aluminum fishing and sporting boats that can be rigged simply and run efficiently with outboard power. Their lineup centers on practical, fishing first designs such as bay boats, bass boats, skiffs and purpose built crappie, catfish and duck boats rather than high freeboard cabin boats, walkaround cruisers or dual console family runabouts, and this reflects a design philosophy rooted in shallow water access, rugged all welded construction and high strength to weight ratios. By concentrating on aluminum hulls with fishing oriented decks and storage instead of spreading into unrelated pleasure boat niches, Xpress reinforces an identity aimed squarely at anglers, hunters and outdoors focused families who prioritize fishability, durability and easy tow and launch characteristics over cabin amenities or tow sports specific towers and ballast systems.

In summary, when someone asks what other styles of boats Xpress Boats makes beyond a particular bay boat or bass boat they might be considering, the answer is that the brand has built a comprehensive aluminum lineup around bay boats, bass boats, skiffs, crappie boats, hunting and duck boats, catfish rigs and now the Bayou Series, all sharing all welded construction, injected foam and fishing oriented layouts that have made Xpress a go to name for serious freshwater and inshore anglers. While they have modernized hulls and interiors over time, the evolution has been within these core categories, refining center console bay designs like the Hyper Lift Bay and Xplorer CC series, enhancing bass platforms like the Xplorer Bass models, and expanding specialized crappie and hunting offerings rather than branching into unrelated fiberglass runabouts or pontoons. Looking ahead, much of Xpress innovation appears to focus on hybrid style aluminum fishing boats, such as bay boats that double as capable family boats or rugged Bayou and duck models that blend hunting, fishing and adventure roles, so it is reasonable to expect future tweaks in layout, electronics integration and comfort features while still staying firmly grounded in the performance aluminum fishing boat space. That focused strategy allows Xpress to keep improving the boat styles it is best known for and continue serving anglers and outdoors enthusiasts who value a tough, efficient, purpose built aluminum fishing and family boat above all else.

WHAT KINDS OF ENGINES DO THESE BOATS USE?

Xpress Boats are built around outboard power, and across the entire aluminum lineup you will only see outboard engines rather than inboards, sterndrives, jets, or electric packages. That choice matches the brand’s focus on shallow draft performance, easy serviceability, and light overall weight for their Hyper-Lift and Hyper-Life hulls, whether you are looking at an Xpress X21 Pro bass rig, an H20 or H22 Hyper-Lift Bay, or an X-Bay X23B Lounge model. Smaller rigs and utility or hunting boats such as the XP and HD series are typically rigged with single outboards in modest horsepower to keep them simple, economical, and easy to trailer, while larger bay and bass models from about 20 to 23 feet, like the H20B, H22B, and X23B Lounge, are designed for higher-output single outboards and in some performance setups can even be tested with twin Yamaha outboards for added thrust and redundancy. The result is a cohesive, outboard-only engine strategy that covers everything from inland lakes and rivers to inshore saltwater without the complexity of inboard systems.

Across the Xpress lineup, horsepower ranges are matched carefully to hull size and mission. Many 16 to 18 foot hunting, utility, and crappie boats run efficient single four-stroke outboards in the 40 to 90 horsepower range, giving easy planing and good fuel economy for duck marshes or small reservoirs. Stepping up to popular 19 to 21 foot Hyper-Lift hulls such as the H20, H20B, and H210B, factory and dealer packages commonly feature Yamaha outboards from 115 to 175 horsepower; for example, an H20C crappie boat is often paired with a Yamaha VF115 SHO, while H20B and H210B bay models are frequently powered by Yamaha F150 four-stroke engines for strong midrange punch and cruising in the 30 to 40 mph range when properly propped. On the larger end, 22 to 23 foot bay rigs like the H22B and X-Bay X23B Lounge are rated up to 300 horsepower, and real-world setups include single Yamaha V MAX SHO or F-series motors from 175 to 250 horsepower, or, in Yamaha performance testing, twin F150 outboards that together deliver up to the 300 horsepower maximum. This spread lets owners choose between economical cruising and near tournament-level top-end speeds while staying within the safe operating limits of each hull.

Xpress has an exclusive partnership with Yamaha, and the company states that since 2007 its entire line of boats has been powered by Yamaha outboards, from high performance bass models like the X21 Pro to bay, skiff, crappie, catfish, hunting, and utility boats. That means when you order a new Xpress you can expect a factory-rigged Yamaha four-stroke outboard as standard, often from the V MAX SHO performance family or the F-series inline four and V6 engines, with popular choices including the VF115 SHO, F150, VF175, VF200, VF250, and F300 on the largest X23 Bay style platforms. These are all modern fuel injected four-stroke outboards designed for strong acceleration, quiet running, and fuel efficiency rather than older two-stroke technology, and they are typically sold as complete packages including the engine, matched Yamaha propeller, controls, rigging, and compatible hydraulic steering or power-assisted steering on higher horsepower rigs. While individual dealers may adjust specific horsepower within the published rating range of each model, the engine brand itself remains Yamaha across the board, simplifying parts support and service for owners.

On the water, the combination of Xpress’s performance aluminum hulls and Yamaha four-stroke outboards is backed up by modern technology and real boater benefits. Many current packages use Yamaha digital controls or smooth mechanical controls matched to features like hydraulic steering, hydraulic jack plates, and integrated instrumentation that make it easy to monitor rpm, fuel burn, and range, helping owners dial in fuel efficiency whether they are running long inshore bay trips or hopping between docks on a reservoir. High output models such as those powered by the Yamaha V MAX SHO series are known for strong hole-shot performance that lifts an X21 Pro or X-Bay hull onto plane quickly, even when fully loaded with gear, while still offering the reliability tournament anglers rely on. The shallow draft of Xpress Hyper-Lift and pad hull designs, combined with tilt-up outboards and optional jack plates, lets anglers and hunters work thin water where inboards and sterndrives would struggle, and routine maintenance is generally simpler thanks to easy access to the engine on the transom. Altogether, the single and twin outboard configurations, digital throttle options, and proven Yamaha engine lineup give Xpress owners a blend of performance, durability, and low ownership hassle that aligns well with the brand’s mission of building tough, high-value aluminum fishing and hunting boats.

WHY BUY THIS BRAND OVER A COMPETITIVE BRAND?

Xpress Boats positions itself as “the original all-welded aluminum boat,” and the brand builds every model around that construction philosophy using high-quality 5052 aluminum, longitudinal rib construction, and unibody injected foam, which together create a rigid, durable platform proven in real conditions for anglers and hunters who run shallow marshes, stump fields, or open bays. Across core lines like the Hyper-Lift Bay, X-Bay, and the all-new XR21 Bay, Xpress incorporates its proprietary Hyper-Lift and XR Hyper-Lift hulls that are engineered for high performance, efficient planing, and a smooth, dry ride in rough water, offering a combination of speed, strength, and handling that the company highlights as “Xtreme engineering” and “Xceptional performance.” Factory features such as self-bailing decks on the X-Bay Series, thick 0.125-gauge bottoms, and all-welded construction (rather than riveted seams) reflect a focus on structural integrity and safety, giving buyers looking at Xpress boats vs competitors a clear, documented difference in hull technology, build quality, and long-term durability backed by a family-owned manufacturer that has specialized in aluminum since 1966.

When you look at Xpress boats vs competitors in terms of value and standard rigging, the factory equipment list on models like the Hyper-Lift Bay H22B/H24B and the X-Bay/X-Bay Lounge Series shows how much is included without heavy reliance on options: Hyper-Lift or XR Hyper-Lift hulls, Xtreme Coat liner, SeaDek console tops and bow step pads, built-in lockable rod boxes, aerated livewells, and extensive dry storage are all standard, along with trolling motor harnesses and pre-rigged electronics such as Humminbird PiranhaMax sonar and Minn Kota Riptide trolling motors on many bay models. Functional fishing layouts integrate tackle storage behind the console backrest, coolers under rear jump seats, full-length walk boards, and elevated casting decks, while family-friendly touches like cushioned jump seats with storage underneath, console seat and backrest cushions, and toe-kick consoles improve comfort and ergonomics for long days on the water. For buyers comparing the build quality of Xpress Boats to other fishing boats in the aluminum segment, that blend of turnkey fishability, thoughtful storage, and ready-to-use rigging directly from the factory means less upfitting, fewer compromises between fishing and everyday boating, and more time actually spent on the water rather than in the rigging bay.

Xpress also puts a strong emphasis on blending hardcore utility with genuine comfort so you can use one boat for multiple roles instead of owning separate rigs, a theme that is especially clear in models like the X-Bay Lounge and the XR21 Bay, which Xpress describes as “built for fishing, ready for family.” The X-Bay Lounge console incorporates a fish box along with lounge-style seating, jump seats in the rear deck, and an oversized jump seat with storage in the front deck, while still retaining a large bay console with baitwell, full-length casting decks, and livewells that serious anglers expect. Similarly, the XR21 Bay’s design highlights expansive casting decks, flush-mounted electronics, a livewell and tackle storage for anglers, plus comfortable seating and an open cockpit layout that can easily transition from chasing redfish or bass in the morning to cruising with kids or pulling a tube in the afternoon, delivering the kind of “fishability meets comfort” versatility many buyers are seeking when researching why choose Xpress Boats over a single-purpose fishing rig or a pure family runabout.

Beyond the hardware, Xpress Boats underscores its reputation and long-term ownership appeal by pointing to its heritage as a three-generation, family-owned company that has been building all-welded aluminum boats since 1966 and continues to refine hulls, construction methods, and finishes as part of what it calls “The Xpress Difference.” While the site focuses more on craftsmanship and performance than on formal customer satisfaction ratings, the brand emphasizes decades of anglers, hunters, and families using its boats in demanding environments, and it pairs each rig with a BackTrack aluminum trailer engineered specifically to match the hull, contributing to better towing and resale appeal as a complete package. For buyers measuring Xpress Boats vs other fishing boats on long-term value, that combination of proven all-welded construction, proprietary Hyper-Lift hull technology, robust standard equipment, and the backing of a long-established manufacturer provides a compelling case for choosing Xpress over cheaper, lightly built aluminum rigs or more expensive fiberglass alternatives, delivering a balance of performance, reliability, and day-to-day usability that supports confident ownership for years to come.

WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR MODEL OF THIS BRAND BEING BUILT TODAY?

Among the current Xpress Boats lineup, the Hyper Lift Bay Series in the 20 foot class, specifically the H20B measuring 20 feet 3 inches, stands out as the brand’s signature high volume offering. On the official bay boats lineup page, Xpress highlights its bay range as “the number one selling 20 foot aluminum bay boat, period,” and the H20B is the 20 foot Hyper Lift Bay model that embodies this claim, positioned alongside the larger H22B and H24B as the core of the bay portfolio. This center console bay boat leverages the proven Hyper Lift hull that Xpress repeatedly references as the foundation of its performance and market success, promoting the series as “the original number one selling 20 foot aluminum bay boat.” The H20B’s role as the 20 foot representative in this heavily promoted series, combined with its presence in national advertised pricing and package options, indicates that it occupies the sweet spot in size, price, and capability for many Xpress buyers who want a versatile aluminum bay boat for both inshore saltwater and freshwater use.

The Xpress H20B Hyper Lift Bay has a listed length of 20 feet 3 inches, a beam of 95 inches, and a 67 inch bottom width, providing a stable fishing and family platform in a compact footprint. Official specifications show a 22 inch transom height, 24 inch sides, and a 40 gallon fuel capacity, with approximate hull weight of about 1,436 pounds and capacity ratings for up to eight people and a combined person weight of 1,128 pounds, reflecting its role as a true family capable bay boat. As a center console layout, the H20B is built around the Hyper Lift hull and includes large fore and aft casting decks, integrated storage, livewell capacity, and a self bailing style deck with Xtreme Coat type floor liner on the series, making it appropriate for serious inshore fishing while remaining easy to clean and maintain. Power options center on Yamaha outboards in the 115 to 150 horsepower range, with Xpress noting that higher horsepower ratings require hydraulic steering on the series, which aligns with typical performance expectations for hole shot, mid range efficiency, and top end speeds needed for bay and coastal running. Factory advertised packages and available appearance and marsh or saltwater team style option bundles across the Hyper Lift Bay series provide multiple rigging and feature configurations to tailor the H20B for different angler or family preferences, from more basic fishing layouts to upgraded electronics, trolling motors, and aesthetics.

The H20B’s combination of manageable size, strong performance, and multi purpose layout appeals to a wide target market that includes inshore saltwater anglers, coastal and bay fishermen, and freshwater sportsmen who also want space for family and friends. Xpress describes its bay boats as versatile solutions for both fresh and salt water, and the Hyper Lift Bay narrative emphasizes fishability and comfort together, suggesting that the H20B is designed to serve as a primary boat for owners who split time between dedicated fishing trips and more relaxed cruising or sandbar days. Features such as expansive casting decks that double as lounging space, multiple seating positions at the helm and aft, and abundant dry storage enable owners to rig the boat with coolers, gear, and safety equipment for family outings while still maintaining a clean, efficient deck for casting and net handling. The ability to choose from appearance, redfish, marsh, or saltwater team oriented option packages adds to this versatility, allowing buyers to emphasize tournament style fishing amenities, shallow water capability, or comfort and styling depending on their priorities, which aligns with Xpress’s positioning of the Hyper Lift Bay Series as a cost effective all in one solution for a broad segment of aluminum bay boat buyers.

From an availability and brand investment perspective, the continued prominence of the Hyper Lift Bay Series and the H20B within Xpress’s 2026 bay lineup and pricing tables signals that this model remains a strategic focus for the company. On the primary bay boats category page, the Hyper Lift Bay Series is called out explicitly as “the original number one selling 20 foot aluminum bay boat,” and the H20B is listed with current nationally advertised pricing alongside its larger siblings, indicating ongoing production, active dealer stocking, and current build slots. The presence of dedicated option packages, updated appearance upgrades such as SeaDek offerings on select models, and clear integration with Xpress’s branded BackTrack trailers shows that the company continues to refine and support this platform rather than treating it as an entry level afterthought. In marketing materials on the main site, Xpress positions its bay products, and especially the Hyper Lift Bay Series built on the Hyper Lift hull, as core to the brand’s identity as the original all welded high performance aluminum boat builder, and the H20B occupies the key 20 foot size that underpins their “number one selling 20 foot aluminum bay boat” claim, making this specific length and configuration the de facto signature offering for buyers seeking the best balance of price, capability, and proven demand within the Xpress lineup.

WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF THIS BOAT BRAND AND COMPANY?

Xpress Boats traces its origins to 1966, when founder Kermit Bryant began building aluminum boats in a small converted schoolhouse in Friendship, Arkansas, recognizing that welded aluminum could deliver a stronger, lighter, more durable platform than traditional riveted designs and that this approach could support reliable fishing and hunting craft for demanding Southern waters, so from the outset the Xpress name was tied to performance and rugged simplicity rather than to a specific model line, with the company quickly pioneering the concept of an all welded all aluminum boat at a time when most competitors still relied on rivets, a decision that created a true unibody hull structure and positioned the fledgling brand as an innovator in both construction quality and on water reliability, and as word spread through regional anglers and hunters during the late 1960s and 1970s, Xpress expanded production within Arkansas, refining layouts aimed at practical open deck fishing, ample storage, and shallow draft capability, slowly building a reputation for tough, uncomplicated boats that could stand up to years of hard use while anchoring a family owned business model that would carry into the next generation.

As Xpress moved through the 1980s the company began to look beyond basic workhorse utility and toward creating aluminum boats that could truly rival fiberglass in performance, a shift that culminated in the late 1980s with the introduction of the Hyper Lift Hull, a padded, pad style running surface that significantly improved holeshot, top end speed, and handling while preserving aluminum’s impact resistance, and this breakthrough effectively redefined what an aluminum bass and bay boat could be, giving anglers the ride and style they expected from glass boats along with the durability and easier ownership of welded aluminum, setting the stage for substantial growth through the 1990s; as demand increased and the product line broadened into more specialized fishing and hunting configurations, Xpress outgrew its original facilities and in 2000 relocated its headquarters and manufacturing operations to a larger, modern plant in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where it could support expanding Hyper Lift performance models alongside more value oriented Xplorer series boats and continue evolving layouts, storage solutions, and rigging options without departing from its core identity as a builder of all welded aluminum hulls.

In the decades that followed the move to Hot Springs, Xpress Boats steadily modernized its offerings and manufacturing methods, developing a comprehensive lineup that now spans Xclusive Pro Bass, Hyper Lift Bass, Hyper Lift Bay, Skiff, Crappie, Catfish, Xplorer, and hunting focused models, each tailored to specific fisheries and seasons yet unified by all aluminum construction that includes decks, floors, subfloors, transoms, and structural components, while engineering teams adopted computer aided design and computer controlled cutting to ensure consistent parts fit, longitudinal rib structures, and the use of closed cell expandable foam to enhance strength, flotation, and sound dampening, and the company continued to refine its Hyper Lift and other hull geometries to deliver shallower draft, better fuel efficiency, and a drier, smoother ride that appealed to both dedicated tournament anglers and multipurpose family users, complemented by aesthetic and comfort upgrades such as the optional Appearance Package introduced in 2019 with custom SeaDek flooring, matching upholstery, and coordinated hull graphics that allowed buyers of bass, bay, and crappie models to personalize their boats while reinforcing the brand’s premium look and feel.

Most recently Xpress has continued to expand and refresh its model range from its 250,000 square foot state of the art manufacturing facility in Hot Springs, employing hundreds of skilled workers across dozens of specialized areas to turn out high performance aluminum boats that reach customers throughout the United States and abroad, while flagship offerings such as the H20Bay, recognized as the top selling 20 foot aluminum bay boat in America, underscore the brand’s strong position in coastal and inshore markets, and its larger Hyper Lift bass and bay platforms showcase the latest iterations of its padded hull technology paired with modern electronics, advanced decking materials, and high output outboards; at the same time the company maintains its messaging around being the original all welded high performance aluminum boat builder, a third generation, family owned operation that emphasizes construction quality, innovation, and long term value, so that today the Xpress name stands for a blend of heritage and forward looking engineering, giving anglers, hunters, and families a broad, segment spanning lineup rooted in the same Arkansas born commitment to rugged, welded aluminum that began back in the schoolhouse in 1966 and continues to shape its outlook on future product development and customer loyalty.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

From its early years as the original all welded aluminum boat builder in Arkansas, Xpress Boats steadily built a reputation for performance and innovation that would later be validated by top level tournament success and industry visibility. The company’s breakthrough Hyper Lift hull, introduced in the late 1980s, became a defining design advancement in the aluminum bass boat segment, marrying the durability of aluminum with the lift, speed, and handling more commonly associated with fiberglass boats, and helping position Xpress models like the Xclusive Pro Bass and X21 Pro as serious tournament platforms. This engineering focus culminated in high profile Bassmaster Elite Series victories, including the first Bassmaster Classic win by an all welded aluminum boat, which gave the brand unprecedented exposure and cemented Xpress as a legitimate choice for professional level anglers seeking high performance aluminum fishing boats backed by a three generation family owned manufacturer committed to quality construction and long term value.

Xpress Boats’ customer driven approach has also been reflected in its participation in the National Marine Manufacturers Association’s Marine Industry Customer Satisfaction Index program, where manufacturers are evaluated using independently collected surveys from new boat buyers that track satisfaction with product quality, sales process, delivery, and after sale service. While Xpress is not among the brands publicly listed by the NMMA as recent CSI award recipients, its emphasis on build quality, dealer support, and lifetime transferable structural warranty aligns closely with the program’s benchmarks, which require participating builders to maintain customer satisfaction scores of 90 percent or higher to earn the CSI distinction in categories such as aluminum outboard boats. The fact that Xpress positions itself around repeat ownership, strong resale value, and dealer service support indicates that it actively targets the type of owner experience that the NMMA CSI awards are designed to recognize, even if official multi year CSI award streaks for the brand are not documented in current NMMA award summaries.

In recent years, Xpress Boats has continued to gain recognition through on water achievements and media coverage rather than formal design trophies, with its Hyper Lift based Xclusive Pro Bass series and X Bay models frequently showcased in tournament coverage, manufacturer features, and pro staff spotlights. The brand’s presence on the Bassmaster Elite Series and at the 2022 Bassmaster Classic, where an Xpress aluminum rig captured the title, served as a de facto innovation showcase by proving that an all welded aluminum bass boat could compete head to head with premium fiberglass rigs on the sport’s biggest stages, drawing attention from major fishing media outlets and strengthening the perception of Xpress as a high performance alternative in the bass boat market. These competitive milestones, along with continued editorial attention to its all aluminum construction, longitudinal rib structure, and closed cell foam for buoyancy and noise reduction, have reinforced product specific recognition for key models across freshwater and inshore segments.

Taken together, the documented awards and recognitions surrounding Xpress Boats portray a manufacturer whose reputation has been built less on formal design plaques and more on verifiable performance, innovation, and owner value that resonate with serious anglers. The pioneering Hyper Lift hull, elite level tournament wins including the landmark Bassmaster Classic victory for an aluminum boat, and the company’s focus on structural integrity, transferable warranties, and strong resale have combined to create durable trust in the brand among bass, bay, and multispecies buyers. Although current NMMA CSI award lists do not show Xpress as a recent recipient, its operations clearly align with the customer satisfaction, quality, and dealer support standards those honors represent, offering prospective owners confidence that they are investing in a proven, engineering led builder with a long track record of delivering durable, high performing aluminum boats that hold their value over time.