Thinking about buying a boat? Whether you love to fish or want to cruise the open water, there are different types of boats to choose from. Each boat type generally falls into three categories: cruising boats, fishing boats, and water sports boats. When choosing the right boat, you’ll need to consider what you’re going to use it for, how much time you’ll spend on the water, and how many people will be on the boat. Once you’ve determined your needs, you’re ready to dive into the world of boats. Read on, Captain!
Photo via @bps_boating_center_calgary
Are you a no-nonsense fisherman who’s eager to get on the water? Check out the simple aluminum fishing boat. These types of fishing boats are slender and streamlined, and their outboard steerable motors make them easy to navigate through the water. The no-frills design and durable build makes these boats inexpensive and easy to drive, allowing you to focus on the fish.
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
Photo via @southerboats
Bass boats are the perfect type of fishing boat for those with one goal in mind—snaring largemouth bass. With easily operated, high-horsepower trolling motors, these small vessels are perfect starter boats for first-time owners. Bass boats have broad platforms that allow you to cast off the back and front, and their low-profile bottoms make moving in shallow water. These are one of the best fishing boats because they also include built-in storage for fishing tackle and floor space for fishing chairs.
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
Photo via @officialblackjackboats
Similar to flats boats, bay boats are shorter profile motor boats designed for floating in shallow waters. The main differences on a bay boat are higher sides and deeper hulls for a smoother ride in coastal waters. Elevated platforms in the back allow riders to move through shallow waters with the help of a pole, while the short stature makes it easy for anglers to look for fish directly under the surface. Versatile and fun to drive, the outboard motor can even be lifted to navigate through shallow water.
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
Photo via @cobaltboatsaustralia
Named for its expansive bow area, bowriders are considered as the most popular of power boats for families. Bowrider boats can also be classified as runabout boats, a term that describes a small power boat with open space in the bow. Outboard or sterndrive engines provide a smooth ride, and ample seating is available behind the cockpit area, which can protect you from spray. The V-shaped design of the bottom is great for easily navigating through different water conditions.
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
Photo via @fiartmare_france
Stocked with amenities, cabin cruisers are a spacious and comfortable type of power boat that you can live on. Similar to a yacht or houseboat, cabin cruisers are perfect for overnight trips because they’re equipped with a sleeping area, kitchen, and small toilet. This boat offers enough space for seating and movement and ensures a smooth ride in all water conditions with its wide, V-shaped hull. There are different types of cabin cruisers to choose from, including convertible cruisers, express cruisers, and pocket cruisers.
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
Photo via @stingrayboats
Hardy and reliable, center console boats are named for the central location of the steering column and are ideal types of boats for sport fishing. A deep V-hull creates a smooth ride in offshore waters, and the durable outboard motors can handle choppy waves. With plenty of seating and cover, this type of boat is also great for day cruising.
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
Photo via @baylinerboats
Similar to a bowrider, a deck boat has the same sleek design with even more seating capability. The difference between the two is the rounding of the V-shaped bow. This simple change gives deck boats more space, making it perfect for entertaining, fishing, or just enjoying a day in the sun.
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
Photo via @highfieldboats
A common type of rowing boat or inflatable boat, dinghies are small vessels that act as helpers to larger boats that may not be able to navigate tight areas. The flat bottom allows easy movement through shallow waters without becoming stuck. Some are equipped with outboard motors, while others rely on paddles for power. Along with inflatable models, these boats can be made from fiberglass, aluminum, or marine plywood.
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
Photo via @triton_boats_official
If you’re looking for versatility, then a fish and ski boat is perfect for you! Features like built-in ski racks, elevated platforms, and fishing chairs can be added or removed to accommodate different water activities. Similar to bowriders, fish and ski boats have ample seating for the entire family and protective windshields, which will provide a comfortable ride no matter your speed!
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
Photo via @andersonracingdcbm28
Think of the high performance boat as the Ferrari of sport boats. Sleek and streamlined, these power boats are great for those seeking the ultimate adrenaline rush on the water. Built for lightness, speed, and style, high performance boats have details like narrow beams, high-horsepower inboard or outboard motors, and deep V-hulls for a fast ride you’ll never forget!
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
Photo via @marinemaxlakehopatcong
If a relaxing cruise sounds better than a fishing expedition, a pontoon may be the perfect fit. With ample seating and standing areas, pontoon boats are both comfortable and incredibly versatile. Pontoons are well-known for gentle cruising on the water or entertaining, but they can also be used for fishing and water sports that aren’t very intense.
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
Photo via @netasailing
Used as both cruisers and sport boats, sailboats are beautiful vessels that are available in all sizes. Most use the wind to maintain speed, but some use inboard or outboard motors to help them power through the water. While many sailboats have single (mono) hulls, catamarans (two hulls) and trimerans (three hulls) are increasing in popularity. The different types of sailboats include daysailers, cruisers, and racing sailboats.
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
Photo via @djdingz
If you’re looking for a truly versatile boat, then tow sports boats (also known as ski/wake/surf boats) are a great match. These sleek power boats are perfect for families and individuals who love to ride choppy waves. The primary difference between each boat lies in the engine. Ski boats have the engine placed in the center for a smoother ride, while wakeboard boat engines are placed in the back of the boat, creating larger wakes and more opportunities for tricks. These boats also have built-in accessories for all of your skiing, wakesurfing, and wakeboarding needs.
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
Photo via @beneteauamerica
Thinking of spending some time living on a boat? Consider the trawler! With round displacement bottoms for a smooth ride and large cabins, trawlers are the great boat for overnight cruises. There’s plenty of space, and many include amenities like a sleeping area, kitchen, and bathroom. If you’re looking for a cruiser that feels like home, a trawler is for you!
Fast Facts
Common Uses
Where They’re Used
Pros
Cons
***
Need to store a boat? Extra Space Storage has self storage facilities across the U.S. with indoor, covered, and outdoor vehicle storage options for your boat. Find boat storage near you!
Thinking about renting storage for the summer? Whether you’re storing seasonal gear, protecting items sensitive…
Creating a list of your self storage items is beneficial for both home and business…
Trailer and motorhome sizes often vary due to their make, model, and year of manufacture.…
When renting a storage unit, one of the first choices you’ll need to make is…
At Extra Space Storage, we know our success is driven by the dedicated individuals who…
At Extra Space Storage, we know our success is driven by the dedicated individuals who…
This website uses cookies.
