Are you in the market for a boat? If you are, it can be a difficult task picking out the perfect vessel that meets your every boating-need. This is partly because there are so many different types of boats on the market — from fishing boats to catamarans to speedboats. On top of that, you'll need to take into account your budget, use-cases, and a variety of other factors.
So, how do you do it? We're here to help! Let's explore the main things you should consider when deciding which type of boat is right for you.
Before we dive into the factors that are unique to each and every boater, let's take a moment to go through our primary options when it comes to boat-buying. We'll offer a brief overview of each vessel-type, as well as what kind of situations they're best for.
A cabin cruiser, often just referred to as a cruiser, is a type of boat that’s designed to travel longer distances. They typically offer a level of comfort not seen in other vessels, with a main cabin nested within the hull of the boat. Many cruisers now come with temperature control, water heaters, electrical, and a variety of other household luxuries to enhance the passenger experience. Although they are capable of taking long trips, cabin cruisers can be used for a diverse range of activities, such as fishing, water sports, and more. They can measure anywhere from 20 to more than 40 feet in length, so cruisers are also a good fit for small groups looking to have fun on the water.
Another common variety of boats is the bowrider, a quintessential choice for anyone looking for a versatile vessel. They're available in both inboard and outboard models, and can be used for everything from fishing and water-sports to leisurely cruising. When considering whether to purchase a powerboat, pay attention to the condition of the engine, as well as any damage to propellers or other water-sport gear. Bowriders are a good choice for those who want maximum versatility and performance from their boat.
The next type of vessel we’ll look at is the pontoon. These boats tend to have large decks that rest on top of long tubes called pontoons. They sit further above the water than other boats like bowriders, and their decks offer lots of space that can be set up in a variety of ways. You can expect a pontoon boat to offer a smooth ride given that they’re typically a bit slower than other boat types. Since their primary utility isn’t speed, pontoon boats are an optimal environment for socializing and enjoying activities with family.
As the name suggests, fishing boats are designed specifically for the purpose of, well, fishing! They tend to vary in size and features, but most will have a live-well (a tank used to store live bait), plenty of storage space for tackle, as well as rod holders. If you're in the process of purchasing a previously-owned fishing boat, it's wise to check the condition of any and all fishing-related features on the boat. These vessels can be a great option for those who love spending time on the water with friends or family, or even for those who are competitive fishermen!
Sailboats are popular for both racing and cruising. They come in a variety of sizes, from small one-person dinghies to large multi-mast yachts. Sailboats can be a great option for those who want to enjoy the peacefulness of being out on the water without worrying about motor maintenance. One caveat of these vessels is that it takes a considerable amount of time and practice to learn how to operate a sailboat — it isn’t quite as simple as some other options. If you're interested in buying a used sailboat, it's important to consider the size of the boat and its sails, as well as the condition of the hull and rigging.
The final class of boats that we’ll cover is the personal watercraft, also referred to as PWCs. These vehicles are primarily used for pleasure — think of your standard jet ski or wet bike. They tend to come in two forms, sit-in and stand-up, each one describing how the rider is positioned while operating that PWC. One word of caution about PWCs is that they are still legally classified as boats; while they may seem like harmless toys, remember that you’re still required to adhere to all boating regulations even if you’re only operating a PWC.
Now let's dive into the factors you need to consider when it comes to purchasing a used boat. Naturally, the first variable to take into account is use-case: what will you be using this boat for?
If you're planning to take this boat out with large groups of friends and family, we'd advise you to stay away from fishing boats. You need a spacious vessel with a variety of amenities — not speed or maneuverability. The stable size and versatile interior of a cruiser or pontoon boat will serve you best. On the other hand, if you'll only be needing space for a handful of people, you’d be best off looking into bowriders. They'll be able to accommodate a small group of people, while also offering much more speed for an exhilarating experience.
Naturally, fishermen should keep their eyes out for fishing boats. — but it isn't quite that simple. Even within the category of fishing boats, there are several factors to consider. Will you be fishing in shallow water, or deeper conditions? How much space does your live-well tank need, and how much bait will you be carrying? Do you need room for many fishers, or just yourself? Ask yourself these questions when weighing potential boats.
When it comes to choosing what kind of boat you'll need, imagination is your best friend. Picture yourself in that boat: what would you be expecting? There will be certain features that are absolutely necessary, while there might be others that you'll leave unused. Use this imaginary scenario to help identify your ideal boat profile, and go from there.
Once you've picked out your perfect vessel, head over to the Boat Stop! Our platform was built by boaters, for boaters, and it's uniquely designed for sailors of every kind! We cater to boats of all shapes and sizes, and help facilitate the transaction from end-to-end.
Make boat-buying easy at the Boat Stop.
