The world of boating can become overwhelming if you don’t know where to start looking. There are many different kinds of recreational boats to choose from, all with different uses and sizes. When you consider purchasing a boat, what are you looking to gain from the purchase? How do you want to use the boat? Which will suit you best? There are three categories of recreational boats that they generally fit into.
Cruising
Cruising boats are meant for those who want to sail leisurely and relax on the water. Some of these boats are meant purely for day cruising, while others have a cabin for those who want to stay overnight. Some examples of these include:
- Bowrider: Bowrider boats have a seating area in the bow of the boat, a V-hull, and are typically for day cruising only. The seating area being at the bow of the ship allows for a nice breeze for sailors, and there are swim platforms off the stem to allow for skiing.
- Pontoon: Pontoon boats rely on pontoons (similar to large tubes) to float on the water. They have wide decks and couch-like seating to relax on, making them perfect for leisurely sailing. Pontoon boats have powerful engines, making skiing great.
- Sailboats: Sailboats rely entirely on the wind to get the boat moving. Sailboats are unique in that they come in many different styles, each distinguished by size, hull configuration, keel type, the number of sails, and the purpose of the boat.
Fishing
Fishing boats have open cockpits in the stern of the boat, leaving more room for the bow deck space and making it easier to fish. These types of boats are much smaller and don’t have a lot of seating, though some are large and allow for overnight stays.
- Bass: Bass boats have low profiles and V-hulls, giving them better access to shallow waters. They’re known for angling bass and can fit three people.
- Aluminum Fishing: Aluminum fishing boats are smaller boats with riveted or welded aluminum hulls. These boats are primarily for freshwater fishing, designed to be lightweight and suited for shallow water and inlets. Aluminum fishing boats can usually fit in places that other boats cannot.
- Walkaround: Walkaround boats are the best boats for family fishing. They have stowaway seating, rod holders, and steps that led to the forward deck. These boats have open hulls and full-length decks, along with cabins to allow for longer fishing trips. Walkaround boats are best for coastal waters and large bays.
Watersports
Watersport boats are specifically designed for water skiers and wakeboarders, making them fast and giving them space to tow thrill-seekers behind them.
- Fish and Ski: Fish and ski boats let the worlds of watersports and fishing crossover. They’re ideal for families who want to enjoy skiing or wakeboarding, and the sunpad area can convert into a fishing platform.
- Jet: Jet boats, similar to bowriders, have plenty of space for seating at the front of the boat in addition to seating in the back. These boats are known for maneuverability and can be used both for a slow cruise and a speedy ride.
- Personal Watercraft: Personal watercrafts, or PWCs, are designed for those whose passion lies with watersports. PWCs typically have planing hulls, letting them move rapidly on the water, and are more affordable than most boats.