Best Boat Dealers in Nelson: Top 3 Experts for Your Perfect Vessel
Searching for the best boat dealers in Nelson to explore the stunning waters of Tasman Bay and Abel Tasman National Park? Nelson, with its vibrant maritime culture and access to world-class boating destinations, is a haven for enthusiasts eager to fish, cruise, or sail. These three top-tier marine businesses offer quality boats, expert service, and tailored solutions, ensuring you find the ideal vessel for your adventures. From fishing boats to luxury cruisers, they cater to Nelson’s diverse boating needs.
We’ve selected three of Nelson’s finest boat dealers, each with a verified website, extensive industry experience, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Specializing in new and used boats, custom builds, and comprehensive servicing, they understand the demands of Nelson’s coastal and inland waters. Explore our list to discover the perfect dealer for your next boat in Nelson!
1. Nelson Marine Centre
About the Business
Nelson Marine Centre, located in Richmond since 2018, is Nelson’s premier Yamaha Marine dealership, specializing in top-of-the-line outboards and a select range of boats. As the region’s only 100% dedicated Yamaha Marine provider, their experienced team offers expert sales and servicing, backed by a nationwide network. Known for their customer-focused approach and high-quality safety equipment, they’ve quickly become a trusted name for Nelson boaters.
Key Services / What They Offer
They sell new and used boats, including aluminium and fibreglass models suited for fishing, cruising, and water sports, paired with Yamaha outboards renowned for reliability. Services include marine financing, trade-ins, and a fully equipped workshop for engine servicing, repairs, and accessory installations like fish finders, GPS systems, and life jackets. They also stock Waverunner Jet Skis and marine safety gear, ensuring boats are equipped for Nelson’s coastal conditions.
Who It’s For
Ideal for Nelson anglers fishing Tasman Bay, families seeking recreational boats, and water sports enthusiasts needing Yamaha expertise and reliable servicing.
What to Expect
Expect a professional, welcoming experience at their modern showroom on McGlashen Avenue. Staff discuss your boating goals, from exploring Abel Tasman to fishing near D’Urville Island, and offer test drives in Nelson’s marina. Used boats are thoroughly inspected, and new vessels are customized with fittings like bait stations. Their workshop uses advanced diagnostics for quick repairs, and delivery within Nelson is seamless. Staff provide maintenance tips for Tasman’s salty, windy waters, ensuring your boat’s longevity.
Standout Features
- Exclusive Yamaha Marine dealership
- Comprehensive workshop for outboard servicing
- Financing and trade-in options
- High-quality safety equipment and Jet Skis
Customer Feedback
Clients praise their service. One says, “Nelson Marine set me up with a Yamaha-powered boat for Tasman Bay—perfect for fishing!” Another notes, “Their team serviced my outboard fast; knowledgeable and friendly.”
Why Choose Them?
Nelson Marine Centre’s Yamaha expertise, quality boats, and customer-focused service make them a top choice for reliable, high-performance vessels in Nelson.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: nelsonmarine.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
2. Bays Boating
About the Business
Bays Boating, operating in Nelson since 2016, is a dynamic dealership in Motueka, serving the region with a focus on aluminium boats and Mercury outboards. Their passionate team, with deep roots in Nelson’s boating community, specializes in brands like McLay and Extreme Boats, known for durability and performance. With a reputation for personalized service and technical expertise, Bays Boating is a trusted partner for anglers and recreational boaters.
Key Services / What They Offer
They sell new McLay and Extreme Boats, designed for fishing and family use, alongside quality used boats. They pair vessels with Mercury outboards, offering customizations like live bait tanks, rod holders, and electronics (e.g., GPS, sounders). Services include financing, trade-ins, and a workshop for servicing, repairs, and trailer maintenance. They stock marine accessories like life jackets and safety gear, ensuring boats are ready for Nelson’s coastal and inland waters.
Who It’s For
Suited for Nelson fishermen targeting snapper or blue cod, families wanting stable boats for Abel Tasman outings, and those needing custom vessels with ongoing support.
What to Expect
Anticipate a tailored experience at their Motueka showroom, where staff discuss your boating needs, from deep-sea fishing to coastal cruising. Test drives are arranged in Tasman Bay, and used boats undergo rigorous checks. New vessels are fitted with custom features, with installations handled in-house. Their workshop ensures quick repairs, and delivery to Nelson is coordinated efficiently. Staff provide guidance on maintaining boats in Nelson’s variable seas, ensuring durability.
Standout Features
- Authorized McLay and Extreme Boats dealer
- Mercury outboard expertise and servicing
- Custom fit-outs for fishing and recreation
- Strong focus on Nelson’s boating community
Customer Feedback
Clients appreciate their craftsmanship. One says, “Bays Boating’s McLay boat is perfect for Nelson’s reefs—custom setup was spot-on!” Another notes, “Their Mercury repair was fast, and delivery to Nelson was hassle-free.”
Why Choose Them?
Bays Boating’s focus on quality aluminium boats, Mercury expertise, and personalized service make them a standout for durable, tailored vessels in Nelson.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: baysboating.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
3. Haven Pleasure Boats
About the Business
Haven Pleasure Boats, based in Tahunanui since 2000, is a boutique dealership in Nelson specializing in new and used boats for recreational and fishing purposes. Their small, dedicated team offers personalized service, focusing on brands like Fi-Glass and Senator, known for versatility and performance. With over 20 years of experience, Haven Pleasure Boats is recognized for its honest advice and strong after-sales support, serving Nelson’s boating enthusiasts.
Key Services / What They Offer
They sell new Fi-Glass and Senator boats, alongside a curated selection of used boats, paired with Yamaha or Mercury outboards. Services include custom installations of electronics (e.g., VHF radios, fish finders), financing, trade-ins, and a workshop for servicing, repairs, and trailer maintenance. They stock marine accessories like life jackets, ropes, and safety equipment, ensuring boats are equipped for Tasman Bay’s conditions.
Who It’s For
Great for Nelson families wanting safe, recreational boats, anglers fishing coastal waters, and those seeking personalized service with financing options.
What to Expect
Expect a friendly, hands-on experience at their Parkers Road showroom, where staff discuss your boating plans, from family outings to fishing in Golden Bay. Test drives are arranged in Nelson’s marina, and used boats are thoroughly inspected. New vessels are customized with features like seating or storage, with installations completed in-house. Their workshop offers timely repairs, and delivery within Nelson is straightforward. Staff share tips for maintaining boats in Nelson’s salty, sunny climate.
Standout Features
- Specialized in Fi-Glass and Senator boats
- Personalized service with custom installations
- Over 20 years of Nelson boating experience
- Comprehensive marine accessory range
Customer Feedback
Clients value their attention to detail. One says, “Haven’s Fi-Glass boat is great for family trips to Abel Tasman—service was fantastic!” Another notes, “They fixed my Yamaha outboard quickly; honest and reliable.”
Why Choose Them?
Haven Pleasure Boats’ boutique approach, quality boats, and strong after-sales support make them a trusted choice for personalized boating solutions in Nelson.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: havenpleasureboats.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
Conclusion: Set Sail with Nelson’s Best Boat Dealers
Choosing the best boat dealers in Nelson ensures your vessel is ready for Tasman Bay’s adventures, from fishing to exploring Abel Tasman National Park. Nelson Marine Centre, Bays Boating, and Haven Pleasure Boats offer unmatched expertise, quality boats, and personalized service, tailored to Nelson’s coastal and inland waters. Their deep connection to the region’s boating culture guarantees a seamless, reliable experience.
Don’t wait to navigate Nelson’s stunning waterways. Contact one of these top Nelson boat dealers today to browse their range, arrange a test drive, or discuss custom options. With their skill and passion, you’ll be cruising the bay or fishing the coast in your dream boat in no time!

Helpful Information About Nelson Boat Dealers
Nelson, New Zealand’s sunniest region, is a thriving hub for boating thanks to its proximity to Tasman Bay, Golden Bay, and the scenic Abel Tasman National Park. Boat dealers in Nelson cater to a wide range of maritime needs—from saltwater fishing vessels to family cruisers equipped for weekend getaways. These dealers often specialize in both new and used boats, as well as offer expert servicing, marine accessories, and engine repairs tailored for local coastal conditions.
Whether you’re mooring at the Nelson Marina or launching from Tahunanui Beach, having a trusted boat dealer ensures that your vessel is seaworthy and suited to your purpose. Local experts understand the unique climate and sea conditions of the Nelson-Tasman region, providing advice and products ideal for adventures near D’Urville Island, the Marlborough Sounds, and around Rabbit Island. With the area’s growing marine community, boat owners can expect quality service and local knowledge from established Nelson dealerships.
Choosing the Right Boat Dealer in Nelson
- Look for dealers with a strong reputation in the Nelson region, particularly those with years of service and positive local reviews.
- Choose a dealer familiar with boating conditions in Tasman Bay and Golden Bay—local knowledge is crucial for selecting the right vessel and equipment.
- Check for comprehensive services, including custom boat fittings, outboard motor servicing, trailer maintenance, and marine electronics installation.
- Evaluate the range of available vessels to ensure the dealer can meet your needs, whether you’re after a fishing boat, family cruiser, or sailing craft.
- Opt for dealers that offer post-sale support, including parts, accessories, and routine maintenance tailored for coastal conditions in Nelson.
- Ensure financing and trade-in options are available if you’re upgrading from a previous vessel or making a large purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nelson Boat Dealers
What types of boats are commonly sold by dealers in Nelson?
Most boat dealers in Nelson offer a mix of aluminium and fibreglass boats, ranging from fishing vessels to family cruisers and jet skis. These boats are often tailored for use in Tasman Bay, Golden Bay, and nearby coastal environments.
Can I purchase both new and used boats from Nelson boat dealers?
Yes, many Nelson dealers offer both new and pre-owned boats. Used boats are typically inspected and serviced before sale to ensure they are safe and reliable for local marine conditions.
Do Nelson boat dealers provide marine servicing and repairs?
Absolutely. Most reputable dealers have in-house workshops offering engine servicing, diagnostics, trailer tune-ups, and installation of marine electronics and safety gear. This helps keep your vessel in excellent condition for use on Nelson’s coastal waters.
Are financing options available for boat purchases in Nelson?
Many dealers in Nelson offer flexible financing solutions to help make boat ownership more accessible. Terms often include trade-ins, deferred payments, and financing packages through marine lending partners.
How do I choose the right boat for exploring Nelson’s coastline?
Consider how and where you’ll use your boat—fishing in Tasman Bay requires durability and sea-worthiness, while family outings to Abel Tasman Park may benefit from comfortable cruisers. Local dealers can guide your selection based on your lifestyle and the area’s boating conditions.
