Radio-controlled watercraft
RC Boats
Compare UK prices on ready-to-run RC boats and submarines. Browse compact boats, self-righting speedboats and models for exploring below the surface. Check what each package includes before your first run.
Featured boat · Revell Going Merry RC Boat
Three ways to take to the water
Best Ready-to-Run RC Boats
We chose a compact starter boat, Revell’s Going Merry for One Piece fans and a larger self-righting speedboat. They cover three budgets and three different reasons to get out on the water.
Best compact starter boat
Ready to run · Surface boat
Handset and two rechargeable boat batteries included. Check the charging lead and handset batteries.
£36.99
Best for One Piece fans
Ready to run · Surface boat
Handset, rechargeable boat battery and USB charger included. Check the handset batteries.
£61.99
Best for a higher-spec speedboat
Ready to run · Surface boat
Handset, two rechargeable boat batteries and USB charging cable included. Check the handset batteries.
£82.99
Choose by use
Recommended RC Speedboats
We picked three self-righting speedboats with different sizes and controls, from a compact racer to a larger water-cooled boat. Compare the batteries and warnings as well as how the boat handles on water.
A compact self-righting racer
Ready to run · Surface boat
This compact freshwater racer offers variable throttle and self-righting. It gives you a smaller alternative to the larger speedboats. Handset and two rechargeable boat batteries included. Check the handset batteries.
£37.99
For variable throttle and self-righting
Ready to run · Surface boat
Choose this DEERC for variable throttle, self-righting and a low-battery warning. The two drive packs let you swap batteries between runs. Handset and two rechargeable boat batteries included. Check the charging and handset contents.
Best for a higher-spec speedboat
Ready to run · Surface boat
A larger speedboat with water cooling and a self-righting function. Battery and range warnings help you judge when to bring it back. Handset, two rechargeable boat batteries and USB charging cable included. Check the handset batteries.
£82.99
Choose by use
Recommended Compact RC Boats and Submarines
Choose a compact surface boat if you want to steer and turn on the water, or a mini submarine for dive and surface controls. Check the instructions for the type and size of water each model suits.
Best compact starter boat
Ready to run · Surface boat
A compact 9.65-inch speedboat with lights and two boat batteries. Choose it if you want a smaller surface model with a spare drive pack. Handset and two rechargeable boat batteries included. Check the charging lead and handset batteries.
£36.99
For trying dive and surface controls
Ready to run · Submarine
This 15 cm model adds dive and surface controls to normal steering. Use it in a small, contained water space that meets the model’s instructions. Handset, built-in rechargeable battery and USB charging lead included. Add four AAA batteries.
£29.99
A submersible with water sensing
Ready to run · Submarine
This compact submarine activates when placed in water. Choose it if you want underwater steering with a water-sensing start. Handset and USB charging listed. Add four AA batteries for the handset.
£35.99
Buying guide
How to Choose an RC Boat
Start with where you’ll use it
Check the model’s instructions for the water type and space it needs. A compact craft suits a different setting from a faster speedboat that needs room to turn and come back to shore.
Choose a surface boat or submarine
Surface boats let you steer across the water. A mini submarine such as the Escomdp 3311-1 Mini RC Submarine adds dive and surface controls for a small contained water space.
Check the recovery features
Self-righting helps a boat turn upright after a capsize. The Cirmine HJ818 RC Speedboat also lists battery and range warnings. Check how the exact model recovers and where you can retrieve it.
Check the transmitter and batteries
Compare the transmitter, boat battery, charger and any separate batteries for the handset. Two included boat batteries can be useful if you want to swap packs between runs.
Check the first-run setup
These are supplied as ready-to-run models. Follow the instructions for charging, closing the battery hatch and pairing the transmitter. Check the after-use care instructions before storing the boat.
Side by side
Quick RC Boat Comparison
Browse the range
Browse All RC Boats and Submarines
Browse the full range of RC watercraft or filter by type or feature. Open a listing to check the supplied batteries, charger, transmitter and intended water conditions.
Helangel HJ820 2.4GHz Self-Righting RC Racing Boat
PHOEWON Mosasaurus 2.4GHz RC Dual-Propeller Boat 40cm Model Kit
Common questions
RC Boat FAQs
Do ready-to-run RC boats need assembly?
These models come with the main craft assembled. Check the exact instructions for any parts to fit, charging and pairing before putting the model in the water.
Do RC boats come with the batteries and charger?
It varies by model. The Revell Going Merry RC Boat comes with a rechargeable boat battery and a USB charger. Check the handset batteries separately, as they can use a different type.
What does self-righting mean on an RC boat?
It means the boat has a way to turn upright again if it capsizes. Check the controls and instructions for that model. The DEERC AU4-2008 Self-Righting RC Boat has a self-righting feature.
Can I use an RC boat in saltwater?
Check that the manufacturer specifically allows saltwater use for the exact model. Follow its instructions for cleaning and drying after a run.
What’s a good size for a first RC boat?
Start with the size of the water and the room you have to steer and retrieve the craft. The YK082 Compact RC Speedboat is about 9.65 inches long and gives you a compact surface option.
Can a mini RC submarine dive and surface?
Check the controls and the permitted water depth for the exact model. The Escomdp 3311-1 Mini RC Submarine has separate dive and surface controls for use in a small contained water space.
Are there build kits in this range?
The current RC range consists of ready-to-run boats and submarines. Check the product’s assembly and operating instructions for the setup it needs before use.