Before You Buy: A Guide to 9 Different Types of Boats

Buying a boat is a significant financial and recreational investment, so you want to select the right one. Choosing the best boat for your water adventures depends on several factors, including your budget, lifestyle, and intended use.

You may want a boat for fishing or cruising, or maybe you're into watersports and want to pull a skier or tuber behind you. However, different types of boats are best suited for various activities.

Which boat is best for your needs? Here's what you need to know before choosing a boat, putting on your life jacket, and heading out onto the waterways.

What Are the Different Types of Boats?

Where should you start when considering your first (or next) boat purchase? Here are nine different boats, along with some details about each one, to help you make an informed decision.

1. Pontoon Boats: Great for Leisure and Families

Pontoon boats are great for lakes and calm waters. They have the room to bring several people along for the ride, making for enjoyable family outings or other get-togethers. They're spacious and stable when accommodating multiple passengers. 

If you're looking for something that goes fast, though, or you plan to take your boat into rough water, a pontoon boat may not be for you. Additionally, pontoon boats are large and can be more difficult to store than other types of vessels. 

2. Bass Boats: Built for Anglers

If you enjoy freshwater fishing, and more specifically bass fishing, a bass boat could be the perfect choice. They have casting decks and shallow drafts, and are fast and easily maneuverable.

However, there's limited seating and storage space in these kinds of boats. If you plan to use your boat for water activities other than fishing, this might not be the best option. These types of vessels aren't easily adaptable for other water activities and are typically used only for fishing. 

3. Center Console Boats: Offshore Fishing and Versatility

A center console boat is suitable for sport fishing, as well as saltwater and offshore fishing. You'll have a rugged design and powerful engines, along with walkaround access for convenience.

One of the things you won't have on this type of vessel, though, is good shelter from the weather. If a storm blows up unexpectedly, you could be pretty uncomfortable on your way back to shore. You won't get a break from the sun on hot days, either.

These vessels can also incur high maintenance and fuel costs, so be sure to factor those expenses into your ownership costs as you consider a boat purchase. 

4. Bowriders: Ideal for Watersports and Day Cruising

If you want to enjoy day cruising or watersports, bowriders are excellent options for families, skiing, tubing, and short cruises. They offer comfortable seating in the bow, making them suitable for sunbathing and swimming.

There's limited storage for overnight gear, though, and they're not ideal for rough, offshore conditions. 

5. Cabin Cruisers: Overnight and Weekend Trips

Cabin cruisers can be excellent options for overnight stays, extended outings, and coastal cruising. They offer a comfortable cabin with a galley, head, and sleeping quarters, but they come with a higher cost and more maintenance.

When considering this type of boat, be aware that you may need a dock slip to store it, due to its size and weight.

6. Sailboats: For the Traditional Mariner

Sailboats are great options for sailing enthusiasts, leisure cruising, and long-term travel. They're fuel-efficient, with a quiet operation and a rewarding (but often steep) learning curve.

Remember that they require wind to get where you're headed, unless your sailboat also comes with a small motor. 

7. Bay Boats and Flats Boats: Inshore and Shallow-Water Fishing

If you enjoy coastal fishing and spending time in shallow bays and estuaries, a bay boat or flat boat could be the right option.

When exploring different types of boats, you'll learn that these boats offer a shallow draft, stable platforms, and versatility for saltwater fishing. However, be aware that they're not designed for use in offshore or rough waters. 

8. Trawlers and Yachts: Long-Distance Cruising

If you're looking for luxury travel, or you're a serious cruiser or someone who plans to live aboard their vessel, yachts and trawlers can offer the best experience. They're long-range, fuel-efficient cruisers with high levels of comfort.

However, they not only require a significant investment, but they also often need experience or a crew. 

9. Personal Watercraft (Jet Skis): Fun and Fast

If you're exploring the water solo or with one other person, you might try doing that on a jet ski. They're great for high-speed fun, especially in rivers and lakes. They're also easy to tow and store, and most are very affordable.

However, they're not practical for long outings, and you'll have limited passenger space and travel range. Additionally, they can be hazardous, so make sure you understand good jet ski safety practices.

And yes, a jet ski is considered a "boat!"

What Boaters Should Know When Considering Different Types of Boats

When asking yourself, "What are the different types of boats, and which one is right for my needs?" start by defining your purpose.

For example, do you plan to fish, cruise, or entertain? Once you know how you intend to use your boat, you can consider your budget. Don't forget to include expenses such as fuel, maintenance, and boat insurance.

Storage and transport are other essential considerations. Where you'll keep your boat should be determined before you buy it. If it's not staying at the marina, make sure you have a trailer for it and a vehicle to pull that trailer safely.

Whether you buy new or used is also something to think about. A new boat typically comes with a warranty, but a used boat may offer a lower price.

Additionally, don't forget to learn your local area's licensing and boater education requirements, test-drive any boat you're considering buying, and understand how to winterize and maintain your vessel.

Stay Safe On Your New Boat with Boater Education

Not every boat is the ideal watercraft for how you love spending most of your time on the water. Choose a boat that fits your budget and meets most of your water adventure needs, whether it's calm cruising on the lake or pulling waterskiers for fast-paced fun.

Take your time and ask questions before making a purchase so that you can feel confident in your decision. 

Then, before you take your new vessel out on the water, take time for a boat education course. The online courses we offer here at Boat-Ed for Canadian and U.S. boaters help you stay safe on the water! You'll learn about navigation, etiquette, emergency procedures, and more.

So, before taking your new boat out onto the water, take the Boat-Ed course for your state in the U.S. or choose our course for Canadian boaters!