Celebrating Bayliner’s 65-Year Legacy

2022 marks the 65th anniversary of Bayliner as one of the world’s most iconic boat brands. Our reputation for being one of the best boats for beginners and delivering exceptional value are the hallmarks of our long history.

A lot’s changed since 1957 

When J. Orin Edson founded Bayliner Boats 65 years ago, his goal was to create a boat brand that could make the best boats for families looking for adventure on the water in the Pacific Northwest. It’s amazing to think that his vision became reality around the world.  

At that time, wood was still the building material of choice for personal watercraft. It wasn’t even until 1966 that the switch to a new, more durable material—fiberglass—ushered us into the modern era. 

Along the way, Edson pioneered concepts that first-time boaters might take for granted today. Just imagine: Bayliner’s original Total Value Package, which matched the perfect engine and trailer with a boat (all for one price) was one of the first of its kind. 

It’s just one way we changed the game for new boaters. Looking forward, we have no plans to stop.  

Just look at us now 

In the beginning, to keep costs low for entry-level boat buyers, Bayliner’s early models came in a single color with custom-built trailers and proprietary outboard engines. 

Today, a boater can build their Bayliner to reflect their wants and needs. From color to comfort, convenience to course of pursuits, there are any number of unique combinations you can create to still fit your budget. 

Once we joined the Brunswick family of companies in 1986, our engine tech was modernized with help from Mercury Marine. All Bayliner boats have been sold with Mercury engines since 1999. 

Since day one, user-friendly boat designs to transform new boaters into lifelong enthusiasts are what keep us forging ahead. 

We’re going the distance 

No matter what model or style of boat, Edson’s original vision that a Bayliner should be a reliable, well-built, affordable boat that any family could enjoy, remained a constant.

We’ve continued to innovate with a modern lineup that includes the Element series, which ranges from 15 feet long to more than 25 feet in length. 

This platform reinvents the deck boat with its revolutionary M-hull and maximized interior space. 

In 2020, Bayliner brought back its Trophy line of fishing boats that are designed to get families out on the water fishing at an affordable price.  

As you can see, remaining one of the top sellers of boats in the world isn’t done by simply following the current.  

By staying true to Edson’s original goal of building affordable boats that bring new people into the boating lifestyle, we’re laying the foundation for the next generation every day. 

To be continued . . .