What boat can you get for $1 million or $300K?

The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show attracts boats across a wide range of price points, and this year was no different.

Two models stood out at opposite ends of the budget spectrum — the Saxdor 400 GTS at $947,000 and the Sea Fox 248 Commander at $299,457. One is a walkaround cruiser with liveaboard capability, the other a versatile day boat built for families and fishing.

We put them side by side to see what each dollar buys.

The Saxdor 400 GTS is the first example to hit Australian shores. It runs a wide walkaround layout with fold-down terraces on either side of the hull, extending the overall deck space and giving the boat a larger feel underway.

Twin 425hp Mercury engines push it to just over 50 knots at top speed. Fuel consumption has improved over the previous model — at 27 knots you're using around 3.3 litres per nautical mile — and a 900-litre tank gives you the range to back it up.

The helm is well equipped, with a hotplate, sink, two fridges and an optional ice maker. Side doors allow it to be fully enclosed, with AC outlets fitted. The sun lounge folds up on twin gas struts; underneath is a cabin that sleeps two adults, and the backrest and table can be lowered to create a large sunpad.

A second cabin at the bow also sleeps two and has its own toilet and shower.

At the stern there's a pop-up barbecue area with a grilling plate and extra sink. Storage is generous throughout, with dedicated fender pockets along the side deck.

The 248 Commander is built to take you offshore, pull up at the sandbar and not strain the budget. It arrives in a beautiful new colour called June and comes in under the 3.5-tonne towing threshold, which is a practical advantage for a lot of buyers.

Power comes from a Yamaha 300hp XSB outboard. Top speed is around 44 knots, with a 420-litre fuel tank on board. A ski pole is fitted at the stern, positioned higher than the outboard to keep tow ropes clear. There's a boarding ladder at the rear with a walk-through door for easy re-entry after a swim or dive.

Up front, a full bow sunpad has a removable infill cushion that converts to wraparound lounge seating. Side cushions act as backrests on longer runs. Diamond-stitched upholstery runs throughout, and there's a plumbed toilet on board.

The helm is tidy with a glass enclosure. Fishing features include an extra-large live bait well, a bait net compartment and generous rod storage under the hardtop.

The Saxdor 400 GTS is a liveaboard-capable cruiser with two cabins, two bathrooms, a full galley and serious range and is built for extended time on the water.

The Sea Fox 248 Commander is a day boat that punches above its price point, covering off family, fishing and towing in one package.

Both made a strong impression at SCIBS 2026. The right one comes down to your budget and how you use your time on the water.