Reveal the best portable grill for boats: BTG Gear Tailwaves review!

Description

Grilling Performance

I’ve had the chance to use the Tailwaves Marine Grill (BTGBBQ-1500) during several outings, including a weekend camping trip and a relaxing day on the boat. Its 12,000 BTU burner delivers excellent heat, cooking steaks and burgers to perfection with that sought-after golden-brown sear. The heat distribution across the 196-square-inch grilling area is surprisingly even, which is not something you can always say about portable grills. My friends joked that the burgers were so evenly cooked, they could’ve been grilled by a professional chef. The built-in thermometer was invaluable, ensuring the grill stayed at the perfect temperature for each dish.

Features

This stainless steel propane grill is packed with thoughtful features. It comes with a rod holder mount, which attaches securely to the boat, making it ideal for marine use. I tested the stability on a breezy day out on the water, and the grill remained firm, even as the boat rocked gently. The fold-away legs are a game-changer for portability; they fold neatly, making it easy to stow away in the limited storage space of my camper. Additionally, the push-start ignition was a breeze to use, even when the wind picked up during a beachside cookout. The compact design and marine-grade stainless steel construction make it a versatile choice for camping, tailgating, and boating.

Ease of Use

Using this grill feels intuitive. Assembly was straightforward, taking me less than 10 minutes from unboxing to firing it up. The push-start ignition worked seamlessly every time, sparing me from fumbling with matches or lighters. Switching between the rod holder mount and the fold-away legs was hassle-free, allowing me to adapt quickly depending on the location. I really appreciated how user-friendly this grill was, especially when cooking for a crowd during a family gathering.

Cleaning

Cleaning the grill wasn’t as daunting as I initially feared. The grease tray slides out easily, and a quick wipe-down with a soapy cloth took care of most of the mess. The stainless steel surface makes it easier to clean compared to some other grills I’ve used, which often require excessive scrubbing. However, I did find that some grease tended to collect in corners, so a little extra attention was needed there. If you’re like me and dread cleanup, this grill makes things fairly manageable.

Durability

Crafted from marine-grade stainless steel, this grill feels solid and durable. It has survived multiple trips and exposure to salty sea air without showing signs of rust or wear. The high-quality latch ensures the lid stays shut during transport, adding to its rugged design. A coworker borrowed it for their tailgating event and commented on how sturdy it felt compared to other portable grills they’ve used. Despite its relatively lightweight 11-pound frame, it holds up well under frequent use.

Portability & Storage

Portability is where this grill truly shines. At just over 11 pounds, it’s lightweight enough for me to carry with one hand. The fold-away legs and carrying handle made it convenient to transport, whether it was from my car to the campsite or from the dock to the boat. Storage was equally simple, thanks to its compact design. I managed to tuck it into my boat’s storage compartment without any issues. It’s a great choice for those who are always on the go.

Temperature Control

Temperature control is a strong suit of this grill. The built-in thermometer was accurate and helped me keep an eye on the heat levels. With some portable grills, maintaining consistent heat can be frustrating, but this one held steady. I was able to grill thick-cut steaks and delicate veggies side-by-side without any issues. The single burner design might seem limiting at first, but it performed admirably for all my cooking needs.

Warranty

The one-year warranty provides a layer of confidence in the product’s quality. While I haven’t had to use it yet, it’s reassuring to know that the manufacturer stands behind the product. A neighbor who also owns this grill mentioned they had an issue with the latch, and customer service resolved it promptly by sending a replacement part. That kind of support adds to the peace of mind when making such an investment.

Advantages

• Compact and lightweight design for easy transport
• Durable marine-grade stainless steel construction
• Even heat distribution across the grilling surface
• Built-in thermometer for precise temperature control

Areas for Improvement

• Stainless steel edges could be smoother; they feel slightly sharp
• Some grease buildup in corners during cleaning
• Single burner design limits multitasking for larger meals

Competing Products

When comparing this grill to others like the Magma Marine Kettle and the Kuuma Stow N’ Go, there are some clear distinctions. The Magma grill offers a similar marine-ready design but lacks the portability features like fold-away legs. On the other hand, the Kuuma grill is slightly larger but feels bulkier to transport. What sets the Tailwaves Marine Grill apart is its versatility—it transitions effortlessly between marine, camping, and tailgating setups, all while maintaining a compact footprint. While other grills might excel in specific areas, this one strikes a great balance of portability, performance, and durability.

Smart Spending

This grill delivers excellent value for its price point. Considering its stainless steel build, portability, and dual-purpose design for both marine and land use, it’s a worthy investment. You’d be hard-pressed to find a grill in this category that offers as much versatility without compromising on performance. It’s a smart choice for anyone who enjoys cooking on the go, whether on the water, at a campsite, or during a tailgate party.

Additional information