Grilling on a boat sounds exciting, doesn’t it? But when you’re out on the water, struggling with uneven heat, messy setups, or bulky grills, it can quickly ruin the fun. Nobody wants a half-cooked meal, right?
That’s where the best portable grills for boats come in! You can enjoy perfectly cooked food while saving space and avoiding frustration with it. Whether you’re hosting friends or just enjoying a solo escape, a reliable grill is a must.
That’s why, we’ll look at the best grills available, showing their features and why they’re good for boats. It’ll help you find the right grill for cooking on the water.
Quick List of the 10 Best Portable Grills for Boats
Here’s a quick guide to the best portable grills for boating enthusiasts.
- Coleman Fold N Go Propane Grill: Best for compact storage and easy cleaning with dishwasher-safe parts.
- Masterbuilt Gas Grill: Best for large groups with 288 sq. in. cooking space and foldable legs.
- Grills House Portable Grill: Best for family cookouts with extra warming rack and 10,000 BTU burner.
- Megamaster 820-0065C: Best for durability and even cooking with stainless steel burner and coating.
- Bunker Up Boat Grill: Best for boat-specific mounting with a 360-degree adjustable rod holder.
- Magma Marine Gas Grill: Best for windy conditions with consistent heat and marine-grade stainless steel.
- Royal Gourmet GT1001 Portable Grill: Best for quick setup with pre-assembled design and folding legs.
- Camco Kuuma Gas Grill (58140): Best for lightweight portability and rust-resistance with stainless steel build.
- Cuisinart Gas Grill CGG-180TB: Best for small groups with compact design and reliable electric ignition.
- Outsunny 2 Burner Grill: Best for versatility with two burners and a lid that doubles as a smoker.
Top 10 Barbecue Grill for Boats
Selecting the correct grill for your boat significantly improves your time outdoors. That’s why, we’ve created a simple chart comparing the important features of the best portable boat grills to simplify your choice.
| Grill Name | Cooking Space (sq. in.) | BTUs | Ignition Type |
| Coleman Fold N Go Propane Grill | 105 | 6,000 | InstaStart Push-Button |
| Masterbuilt Portable Propane Gas Grill | 288 | 10,000 | Manual with Long Lighter |
| Grills House Portable Grill | 214 + 71 (warming rack) | 10,000 | Piezo Ignition |
| Megamaster 820-0065C Portable Gas Grill | 360 | 11,000 | Piezo Ignition |
| Bunker Up Boat Grill with Rod Holder | 277 + 87 (warming rack) | 12,000 | Electric Start |
| Magma Marine Gas Grill | 15-inch diameter (Compact) | 10,700 | Turbo Venturi with Manual Ignition |
| Royal Gourmet GT1001 Portable Grill | 285 | 10,000 | Piezo Ignition |
| Camco Kuuma Gas Grill (58140) | 125 | 9,000 | Manual Ignition |
| Cuisinart Gas Grill CGG-180TB | 150 | 5,500 | Electric Push-Button |
| Outsunny 2 Burner Grill | 118.125 | 10,000 | Piezo Ignition with Two Burners |
Best Portable Gas Grill for Boating Enthusiasts
We tested different grills, looking at how portable they are, how sturdy they feel, and how evenly they cook. Plus, we spent time figuring out which ones are easiest to use, so you can skip the frustration.
After plenty of grilling (and a few messy cleanups), we’ve narrowed it down to the top options that will make cooking on the water a breeze.
1. Coleman Fold N Go Propane Grill
The Coleman Fold N Go Propane Grill is the perfect companion for anyone who loves grilling on a boat. Whether you’re grilling steaks, burgers, or even fish, the 105 sq. in. cooking surface gives you plenty of room to work.
This grill doesn’t just save space—it’s reliable too. With a 6,000-BTU horseshoe burner and PerfectFlow technology, you’ll get steady, even heat, even on windy days out at sea.
Plus, the InstaStart push-button ignition means you won’t need to fumble with matches. After you’re done cooking, cleaning is simple! The grill surface and grease tray are removable and dishwasher-safe, so you’ll spend less time scrubbing and more time relaxing.
If it’s your first time using it, attaching the propane tank might take a bit of practice. In addition, the latch could use a little reinforcement when transporting. Still, these small quirks are easy to manage.
What We Didn’t Like
Yes, the Coleman Fold N Go Propane Grill has many great features. However, there are a few areas where it could be better. The latch, for example, works but can be a bit tricky to lock securely. If it’s not aligned properly, you might have trouble keeping it closed during transport.
We also noticed, and some users agree, that controlling the temperature with the lid shut can be challenging. It tends to run hotter than expected! These aren’t major issues, but they’re worth considering for a smoother experience.
2. Masterbuilt Portable Propane Gas Grill
Whether cruising, fishing, or just enjoying a day on your boat, you need the best BBQ grill for boats. With that in mind, let’s look at this Masterbuilt gas grill.
One feature we really like is the 288 square inches of cooking surface. You get plenty of room to cook for a group. The stainless steel construction adds durability and makes cleanup a breeze after your grilling session.
Plus, the 10,000 BTU stainless steel burner heats evenly, so your food cooks just the way you want it. When it comes to portability, the folding legs and locking lid are real game-changers. You can easily store it away or take it with you, thanks to the large front handle.
In addition, it runs on disposable 1-pound propane cylinders, which are easy to find and perfect for outdoor use. That said, if you’re new to grilling, you might find the ignition system of Masterbuilt grill a little tricky at first.
What We Didn’t Like
While we love the portability and ease of use, there’s one issue that stood out. Like some other grills we’ve used, the ignition system here can be inconsistent.
Many users, including our team, found it difficult to start at first. In fact, a long lighter can light your gas grill quickly. Additionally, cleaning it can also be difficult, particularly for those who prefer a spotless result.
3. Grills House Portable Grill
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy a flavorful BBQ while out on the water, the Grills House Portable Grill is a must-have. Thanks to its foldable legs, secure travel locks, and handy handles, you can move it easily from your boat to your dock.
This compact grill gives you a cooking area of 214 sq. in. on chrome-plated steel wire grates. That’s enough space to cook for the whole family or a few friends. Plus, it comes with a 71 sq. in. warming rack to keep your food hot while you grill.
Despite its small size, this grill packs a punch with a 10,000 BTU burner. It connects to a 1 lb. propane cylinder (which isn’t included), so make sure to have one ready before your trip. In addition, the body is made of stainless steel so it can go a long way.
To top it off, the piezo ignition system makes lighting the grill quick and easy, so you can get cooking without any hassle. That said, the assembly process can be a little tricky, especially when peeling off the protective stickers.
What We Didn’t Like
We found one key issue with the Grills House; its flames sometimes shoot up too high. In fact, dripping fat on the flame tamer can cause these flare-ups. This can burn food, especially when cooking larger amounts.
Well, you can prevent this issue by regularly cleaning the flame tamer. So, remember to clean it. If you grill greasy foods, like burgers or chicken, you might see this problem.
4. Megamaster 820-0065C Portable Gas Grill
Looking for a reliable way to barbecue while out on the water? The Megamaster 820-0065C Portable Gas Grill is exactly what you need!
With 360 square inches of cooking space, this marine barbecue grill has enough room to cook for your entire crew. Its lightweight design, foldable legs, and cool-touch handles make it incredibly easy to move, store, and set up.
It comes with a secure locking lid to prevent spills and keep your items safe during transport. On top of that, the grill’s liquid propane burner delivers 11,000 BTUs of heat for fast and even cooking.
The Piezo ignition system takes the hassle out of starting it—you just press a button, and you’re ready to cook. Plus, its stainless steel burner and heat-resistant coating ensure Megamaster will last for years in marine conditions.
However, if you’re cooking greasier foods like burgers, the grease tray might fill up faster than expected, so keep an eye on that. The heat tends to run slightly hotter along the edges, so you’ll want to rotate your food for even cooking.
What We Didn’t Like
With all the bells and whistles of Megamaster Gas Grill, there are some things to consider. The heat can be uneven, mainly near the edges. We had to turn our food often to cook it evenly.
Assembly is another challenge! It’s time-consuming and easier with an extra pair of hands. Lastly, the thin cooking grates could use an upgrade for better durability.
5. Bunker Up Boat Grill with Rod Holder Mount
If you’re after the best portable grill for boat, Bunker Up Boat Grill is an investment you won’t regret. Made from 100% stainless steel, this grill is built to last and resists rust and corrosion, even in tough marine conditions.
You get 277 square inches of space on the main grilling surface, plus an additional 87 square inches on the warming rack. See, it gives you ample space to cook for everyone. The powerful 12,000 BTU burner ensures even heating, and the built-in thermometer lets you easily control cooking temperatures.
Plus, the electric start ignition means you can fire it up with just the press of a button. One of our favorite features is the 360-degree adjustable rod holder mount! It lets you position the grill exactly where you need it.
And if you’re planning a beach cookout or tailgate, the grill’s foldable legs make it just as portable off the water. Assembling this grill might take a little effort, but the end result is well worth it.
What We Didn’t Like
Even though we enjoyed using the Bunker Up Boat Grill, it’s not perfect. First-time setup took us longer than expected. So, you might want to set aside extra time if you’re new to a marine BBQ grill.
Well, the warming rack works well but feels a bit small when you’re cooking for a group. We also noticed you may need to work a bit to get the right fit on some boat rails.
6. Magma Marine Gas Grill
Let’s start with why the Magma Marine got its place in our list of the best portable grills for boats. Built from mirror-polished marine-grade stainless steel, it’s tough enough to handle salty sea air without rusting or corroding.
Plus, its compact 15-inch diameter makes it the right size for smaller spaces, and it’s lightweight enough to move and install without hassle. You can connect it to 1lb disposable propane canisters or even hook it up to your boat’s LPG or CNG system.
In addition, the turbo venturi burner and heat design ensure consistent heat, even when it’s windy. You can also convert the Magma gas grill into a single-burner stove by removing the grill grate. A lot of options, right?
The lid won’t slam shut when your boat rocks and the handle stays cool to the touch. However, remember it doesn’t come with a storage bag, so you might want to purchase one separately. And yes, grease drips can happen, so installing the grill over the water is best.
What We Didn’t Like
Grease management can be challenging, especially if you don’t set it up over water. The dripping grease made a mess on our deck, so placement matters.
One major issue is the shallow grease tray. it fills up quickly and can cause flare-ups if not emptied regularly.
7. Royal Gourmet GT1001 Portable Grill
Grilling on the go can be so much fun, and the Royal Gourmet GT1001 makes it even better! With its folding legs, lockable lid, and lightweight build, it’s easy to carry, store and set up anywhere you like.
With 285 square inches to work with, you’ll have enough room to cook for your family or a small group of friends. With a stainless steel grilling grate and a chrome warming rack, you can evenly cook meat while also keeping buns or vegetables warm.
Its U-shaped stainless steel burner delivers 10,000 BTUs which is equal to the one best burners gas grills. Well, it basically heats up quickly and maintains consistent heat for excellent results. In addition, we really liked the built-in thermometer for easy temperature monitoring.
The Piezo ignition also impressed us; it starts the grill with just the push of a button. It’s designed to run on a 1lb propane tank, making it the best portable gas grill for a boat or any outdoor activity.
However, if it’s your first time using this grill, you might find adjusting the heat or managing grease drips a bit tricky at first.
What We Didn’t Like
Though the Royal Gourmet GT1001 has a lot to offer, there are some issues we should point out. Cleaning can be difficult because grease often leaks from gaps underneath, making it harder to handle.
It’s also difficult to tell if the burner is lit. We wasted propane for that reason, see!
8. Camco Kuuma Gas Grill (58140)
If you’re planning to enjoy a cruise, the Camco 58140 Kuuma Gas Grill might just be the perfect partner for you. Let’s start with the essentials. The grill gives you 125 square inches of cooking space. Well, it was plenty for us for a few burgers, steaks, or hotdogs to feed your crew.
At just 14.5 pounds, it’s lightweight and easy to move around. Plus, with the latch and handle, carrying it or storing it was a breeze. You’ll also appreciate that it uses 1 lb. propane cylinders—affordable, portable, and easy to find.
This grill isn’t just convenient; it’s tough, too. Made from 304 stainless steel, it’s built to resist rust and stand up to the harsh marine environment. The 9,000 BTU burner delivers consistent heat, so your food cooks evenly and tastes amazing.
Bonus: it comes fully assembled, so you won’t have to stress over setup. We know you might hit a couple of bumps if it’s your first time using it. Attaching the propane cylinder can feel a little tricky at first, so it’s a good idea to practice before your trip.
What We Didn’t Like
Camco grill (58140 isn’t not without its flaws. For us, the lack of a built-in igniter was a hassle. You’ll need to keep a lighter handy, which isn’t ideal in windy conditions.
We also had problems with how it attaches; it doesn’t always fit well, particularly when mounting on rails. This showed us that a better bracket is a worthwhile investment. While it’s a solid grill overall, the plastic mounting bolts also felt like a corner cut in quality.
9. Cuisinart Gas Grill CGG-180TB
When it comes to barbecue grill for boats for a small group of buddies, the Cuisinart CGG-180TB is hands down the perfect one. With a 150-square-inch porcelain-enameled cooking surface, you’ll have plenty of room to cook for two to four people.
Even though it’s small, the heat distributes evenly, so you don’t have to worry about hotspots ruining your meal. At just 17 pounds, it’s light enough for you to carry around with ease.
It has foldable legs that provide stability during use and fold away neatly for easy storage. Also, it uses propane fuel and has a 5,500 BTU burner, providing reliable and easy-to-adjust heat. You can start it effortlessly without fussing with matches or lighters, thanks to the electric ignition system.
Moreover, the removable grate is dishwasher-safe, so you’ll spend more time relaxing and less time scrubbing. However, keep an eye on your food while grilling—this grill heats up fast! Also, the drip pan is on the smaller side, so it’s best for shorter grilling sessions.
What We Didn’t Like
We like using the Cuisinart Gas Grill CGG-180TB, but we discovered some things. The large cooking grate can be hard to clean unless you use a wire grate instead.
Also, we noticed that the small drip tray fills up fast when grilling for a long time. It means you need to check it often. These are small issues with an otherwise great, portable grill.
10. Outsunny 2 Burner Grill
If you’re looking for a grill that combines portability, power, and versatility, the Outsunny 2 Burner Grill is the ideal choice. With two burners, you can manage heat separately, giving you better control over how your food cooks.
Plus, 118.125 sq. in grilling surface has enough room for meals for 2-4 people. In addition, it comes with foldable legs to make it easy to pack up and take anywhere.
On top of that, you can use the lid for smoking, trapping the smoky flavors inside. And its built-in thermometer lets you monitor the cooking temperature without opening the lid.
Built from durable carbon and stainless steel, the grill is made to last. It uses propane gas and comes with a regulator and hose, so setup is straightforward, even for beginners.
That said, you might need a little patience the first time you connect the propane. Also, we recommend using the included thermometer to prevent overcooking, as this grill heats up quickly.
What We Didn’t Like
The Outsunny 2 Burner Grill is portable and versatile, which we appreciate. However, we noticed a few things while using it. The control knobs can stick, making it hard to adjust the heat.
Also, the grill grates don’t seem very durable and might not last long. We found that this grill doesn’t work with small, one-pound propane bottles, which limits fuel options.
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best BBQ Grill for Boats
Here are five key things to consider when choosing a grill that works perfectly for your boating adventures.
Grill Surface
Think about how much cooking space you need. If it’s just you and a friend grilling burgers or fish, a smaller grill like the Coleman Fold N Go will be enough. However, if you often cook for a group, look for a larger surface area that can handle more food.
Bonus points if the grill has a warming rack to keep your food hot while the rest cooks.
Type of Gas
Most boat grills run on propane, but not all use the same tanks. Smaller grills often use lightweight 1-pound propane cylinders, which are easy to carry and store.
On the other hand, bigger grills might let you connect to larger tanks or even tap into your boat’s onboard gas system. So, choose the one that fits your setup best.
BTU
BTU (British Thermal Units) tells you how much heat the grill can produce. A higher BTU means faster cooking. However, even heat distribution is just as important.
For grilling in windy conditions, aim for a grill with at least 6,000 BTUs to keep things steady.
Materials
Durability is a must when your grill is exposed to salt, wind, and water. In that case, stainless steel is your best bet. It’s rust-resistant and tough enough to handle the elements.
Also, make sure the grates and burners are made from good-quality materials to avoid wear and tear over time.
Ignition
Starting your grill should be simple, even when the wind picks up. Push-button or piezo ignition systems are reliable and easy to use, sparing you the hassle of matches.
Still, it’s smart to keep a lighter handy in case the ignition system fails unexpectedly.
Final Words
Remember, finding the best portable grills for boats comes down to your specific needs. Consider things like compactness, heat output, or easy cleaning. If you’re grilling for a small group, something like the Cuisinart CGG-180TB might be perfect.
For larger gatherings, the Megamaster or Bunker Up Boat Grill offers space and power. We loved how some grills, like the Magma Marine Gas Grill, are built tough for harsh marine environments.
However, features like ignition ease or grease management might need attention, depending on your choice. At the end of the day, your perfect grill will make boating even more enjoyable. So, weigh your options, keep our insights in mind, and let’s get grilling.