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How to Choose the Best Boat for You

Nov. 27 2019 Watercraft By Brad

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So you're taking the plunge and looking to buy a new boat.

When buying a boat, there is a lot to consider when choosing the right one. When choosing, you need to look at the price, size, and what you are using it for.

Choosing the right one can be a daunting task, but have no fear! We are here to guide you in the right direction so you can take home the boat you've always wanted.

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know to choose the best boat for you.

Types of Boats

Cruisers have higher fuel capacities for long-range trips, a cabin with a pull-down berth, shower, and a small galley area for cooking. 

Cruisers

Cabin cruiser boats are the top choice for boaters who want to get away for the weekend or have a comfortable day at the lake. 

The cabin is usually towards the bow and has all the amenities to go beyond your home port.

Cruisers are equipped with higher fuel capacities for long-range trips, a cabin with a pull-down berth, shower, and a small galley area for cooking. 

These boats are the aquatic versions of class A motorhomes you see on the road today.

  • Capacity - 1 cabin
  • Length Range - 16'-47'
  • Price Range - $100,000+
  • Propulsion type - Stern Drive Engine

Pontoons

Pontoons are trendy rental boats you see at lakes all over the country. They have dual tubes under the boat to keep it buoyant.

These boats are simple to maneuver, which makes them a popular choice.

They are customizable and can reach speeds of up to 35 mph. They offer a flat top deck, which is ideal for trips with 5-15 passengers (depending on size) and is useful for fishing, watersports, boat parties, and family fun.

  • Capacity - 5-15 people
  • Length - 16'-33'
  • Price Range - $30,000+
  • Propulsion type - Outboard Engine or Stern Drive Engine

Sailboats

Sailboats are for the ultimate adventurer type. They are powered partially or wholly by its sails and the wind. Most come with cabins, staterooms, galley, navigation quarters, and much more.

This type of boat can cover a wide range of uses. Whether you are solo dinghy sailing, going port to port on extended trips, or cruising around the coastal waters, it's hard not to go with a sailboat.

  • Capacity - 2-3 cabins
  • Length - 15'-220'
  • Price Range - $100,000+
  • Propulsion Type - Wind/Sail, Stern Drive Engine, Outboard engine

Personal Watercraft (PWC)

The personal watercraft was made popular by Kawasaki's watercraft model called Jet Ski. PWC's are for the adrenaline-junkie who loves speed and corner-cutting maneuverability.  

Do you have family or friends who you want to take out on the water? You can do that with a watercraft. Most offer dual seating, and sometimes can even fit three people. Think of a PWC as the aquatic equivalent to a motorcycle.

If you're looking for something small, easy to store, and less of hassle to maintain, a personal watercraft is a solid choice to enjoy the water.

  • Capacity - 1-3
  • Length - 16'-28'
  • Price Range - $35,000+
  • Propulsion Type - Jet, Stern Driven Engine

Ski/Wakeboard Boat

Ski/wakeboarding boats are fast boats designed to pull someone waking or skiing.

Technological advances over the years have spawned boats that can even make wakes and waves, which make things even more fun on the water. 

Although you can use this boat for day cruising, this boat usually serves one purpose, and that's for watersport activities.

If you're an avid wakeboarder or water skier, purchasing a ski/wakeboard boat is a must.

  • Capacity - 1-5
  • Length - 16-30
  • Price Range - $50,000
  • Propulsion Type - Jet, Stern Driven Engine

Speed Boat

If you are looking for speed, this is the boat for you. Speed boats can garner as much as 1000 hp and can go as fast as 100 mph.

But, like all other vehicles, more speed equals more expense. Buckle up! High-performing speed boats will set your wallet back quite a bit.

These boats are often used for racing and driven by thrill-seekers. If you want to go fast and money isn't an issue, a speed boat will fit the needs of the adrenaline-junkie inside of you.

  • Capacity - 1-6
  • Length - 30'-60'
  • Price Range - $300,000+
  • Propulsion Type - Outboard Engine

Bowriders

Bowrider boats are the number one pick when it comes to affordability and recreational use.

Bowriders have seating towards the bow of the boat and rotating seats for the driver and navigator in the cockpit. 

These boats are versatile for different needs such as fishing, day cruising, or even watersports. Most brands carry bowriders because of the ease of operation and the versatility they offer.

If you are looking for an affordable boat that has the flexibility to serve many purposes, a bowrider is a solid choice.

  • Capacity - 2-5
  • Length - 15'-30'
  • Price Range - $30,000+
  • Propulsion Type - Stern Driven Engine, Jet, Outboard Engine

Runabouts

Like a bowrider, a runabout is a small motorboat that is affordable and serves many purposes. If you are looking for a boat where you can go fishing, water ski, day cruise, and have fun with the family, runabouts are a great choice.

Whether you are looking for something peaceful and generic or luxurious and extravagant, its no question a runabout is a great boat to buy.

Trawler Boats

Trawlers are the workhorses in the maritime culture. They are vessels that have displaced hulls intended for steady cruising over long distances. 

Depending on what size trawler you have, they are generally equipped with staterooms, full galleys, and plenty of storage for long travels and overnight cruising.

This boat provides you with the comfort of home, with some people even living in their trawler full-time. If you're looking to go long distances with overnight cruising, trawlers are a great choice.

  • Capacity - 1-8
  • Length - 20'-50'
  • Price Range - $200,000+
  • Propulsion - inboard engine

What Is The Best Boat For You?

Aside from the boats already mentioned above, there are hundreds of hybrids and crossovers flooding the market today. Other types of boats include Jon Boats, Cuddy boats, Canoe Boats and Deck boats, to name a few. 

This list is meant to give you a general idea of the most popular boats people are buying today, along with their uses. Remember, when choosing the best boat for your needs, you need to focus on three areas: the price, size, and what you're using it for.

If you're ready to take the plunge for your new boat, browse through some of the boats in our inventory today!