Selecting a Recreational Boat
Craft are Available for Many Different Boating Activitiy Interests
Recreational boating brings a wealth of new activities only available to boaters. Activities are as diverse as the boating community. Boats are designed for fishing, skiing, sailing, or cruising and often can serve more than one function. This is a brief guide provided with assistance of the Discover Boating initiative.
All-Purpose Fishing - These craft are designed to satisfy the avid fisherman while retaining the flexibility to pursue a variety of species. A typical all-purpose fishing boat is powered by larger outboard motors and have higher freeboard than that seen with bass boats. This combination allows these boats to operate in rougher waters under more varied loads.
Bowriders - These are high performance boats with ample open seating available up in the bow. Most are equipped with inboard sterndrive, but can have outboards or jet drives installed
Cruisers - Cruisers are larger vessels that have adequate room for a galley, head and sleeping quarters. They can be smaller boats equipped with sterndrives or larger trawler style vessels. These craft often replace the vacation cabin for many families. Their hulls are designed for a smooth ride in open waters and usually make good speed.
Day Sailers - As the name implies, these craft are meant for day use and not equipped with the accommodations needed for extended trips. Day sailers prove to be a popular and inexpensive way to learn basic sailing skills. Many of these craft are used by their owners in sailing regattas and races.
Pontoon Boats - These boats use two large pontoons to support a large deck normally surrounded by a railing. They are often equipped with sun awnings, couch-like seating, coolers, and swivel seats. Typically used in protected inland waters, these boats are remarkably stable platforms for water related recreation. Pontoon boats equipped with sufficient power can be used to tow skiers and tubers.
Water Ski and Wakeboard Boats - Ski boats are high performance craft usually equipped with powerful inboard motors. The outdrive of an inboard equipped boat is tucked underneath the hull a more than a boat uses an outboard. This may help reduce injuries caused by rotating propellers. They are designed to skiers and wakeboarders at high speeds and produce a large wake.
These are only a few of the many styles of recreational boats available on the market. Additional types can be seen at the Discover Boating website that provides extensive online resources for potential boaters and those looking to step up. Learn more about your choices, pick a boat, and get out on the water!
Jet Drive Boat
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Trawler Style Boat
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