After reviewing the best magnetic rowing machines I decided to provide you with a list of the best water rowing machines on the market to help you make an informed decision rather than a rushed impulse buy you might regret.
This is a no-nonsense guide to the best water rowing machines, with quick recommendations so you can choose the water rowing machine that suits what you’re looking for the best. All you’ll need to do is pick one out and fill up the water tank!
Editor’s Award | Winner |
---|---|
Best Water Rowing Machine | Mr Captain Rowing Machine |
Alternative Best Pick | Sunny Health & Fitness Water Rowing Machine |
Best Compact Water Rowing Machine | House Fit Compact Water Rowing Machine |
Best Budget Water Rowing Machine | Vilobos Water Rowing Machine |
Click to jump straight to each topic.
The Best Water Rowing Machines Reviewed
Best Water Rowing Machine: Mr Captain Rowing Machine
Best Water Rowing Machine
The Mr captain rowing machine is aptly named, as it looks like something made up from a shipwreck of some sort, but don’t let looks deceive you the Captain is currently the best water rower out there.
Perfect for home or garage gyms the captain is exactly who you want in charge to help you push your fitness to the next level.
- Available in 3 different finishes (Vintage Oak, Red Walnut and Zebrawood)
- Includes bluetooth monitor with tons of custom settings for you to play with and assist you with your workout
- The Mr Captain is incredible portable with built in wheels allowing you to move it for easy storage
- Electric pump included for filling the water tank
- Active recoil system and and ergonomic seat make rowing on the captain a breeze
The Captain Water Rowing Machine is our Top Pick for the best value in rowing fitness equipment!
Check the latest price on Amazon.

Alternative Best Pick: Sunny Health & Fitness Water Rowing Machine
Alternative Water Rowing Machine Best Pick
Sunny Health & Fitness Water Rowing Machine
Some people might not like the wooden rustic look of the captain which doesn’t always style well with other modern gym equipment.
The sunny is a great alternative for those’s who want a machine of similar specs but in a modern style.
- Designed to simulate real stroke on water producing a more challenging and realistic rowing experience
- Engineered with a steel frame to provide long life and durable design
- Includes a Large adjustable LCD monitor which can keep track of SPM, Distance, Calories and many other fitness data settings
- Small pulley wheels are attached to the frame for easy transport
- Stabilizers are built into the back supports for a smooth rowing experience
Check the latest price on Amazon.
Best Compact Water Rowing Machine: House Fit Compact Water Rowing Machine
Best Compact Water Rowing Machine
House Fit Compact Water Rowing Machine
For those lacking space but still want to get a great workout, the House Fit is perfect for those’s who need a sleek design to fit inside a wardrobe or garage.
The House water rowing machine manages to stay compact without sacrificing any other features which makes it a great choice.
- Designed to be rock solid when underuse the sunny comes with rear support stabilizers to ensure a smooth rowing experience on any surface
- A fully adjustable machine with 6 levels of water resistance which is perfect for beginners or someone in a rowing club
- The House rower features a special design which allows it to be stored in a standing position for maximum storage
- Includes a large tablet support table which means you can read, browse the internet or watch a movie while working out
Check the latest price on Amazon.
Best Budget Water Rowing Machine: Vilobos Water Rowing Machine
Best Budget Water Rowing Machine
With more of a bare-bones design then the other rowers the Vilobos is our best budget rower pick.
While it might not feature all the fancy bells and whistles featured in the other machine its a great machine for someone putting a gym together on a budget.
- The Vilobos provides great value for money among other water rowing machines.
- Despite the price, the Vilobos does feature adjustable water resistance which allows for a greater workout.
- Includes a digital LCD monitor which can display all the usual fitness stats which is great for a model in this price range.
- Designed with comfort in mind with an ergonomic seat and extended bar the Vilobos makes for an easy workout.
Check the latest price on Amazon.
Other Worthy Mentions

WaterRower is becoming more and more a household name in the fitness world due to their well-engineered machines and for rowing its no different.
- Extra padded handles
- Great Weight Capacity
- Beautiful Natural Finish
First Degree Fitness Fluid Water Rower
Like most water rowers the First Degree has adjustable resistance levels but it also features a multilevel computer complete with an LCD screen.
- No dead spots in rowing stoke
- improved pulley system increases the range of resistance
Frequently Asked Questions
Whats the difference between normal rowers and water rowing machines?
Traditional rowers use air as resistance which means it only resists as hard as you pull, water rowers, however, use water as resistance so its a much more challenging and realistic experience
Are water rowers better?
With water rowing machines it’s all down to personal preference and what your aims are. If you are looking to simulate real rowing then water rowing machines are your best bet, But if you just want a quick workout you likely won’t notice the difference between air rowers, magnetic rowers and water rowers.
Can you get in shape just by rowing?
Rowing is a great all-body workout and with correct form will work out many different muscle groups…plus give you aerobic exercise. Results will vary based on the effort put in but you can definitely get in shape just by using a rowing machine….it’s a full body workout! There are plenty of workout programs online to get you started in your own home gym.
How long do water rowers last?
Like all material goods, the water rower will only last as long as you want it too, and by that, I mean with correct maintenance and cleaning most rowers will last 10-15 years.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.