No boat feels complete without proper seating, especially
seats that offer comfort, support, and stability while you’re out on the water.
Since most passengers sit while the boat is underway, good seating helps keep
everyone safe, balanced, and comfortable. This is particularly important in
smaller boats, where shifting your weight can easily rock the vessel. And with
the natural motion of the water, standing for long periods simply isn’t
practical.
Boat seats come in a wide range of styles and comfort levels,
much like car seats, sofas, or dining chairs. The right choice really depends
on your personal preferences, like how much cushioning you want, what style
suits your boat, and how much you’re willing to spend. Options range from
budget-friendly seats under $100 to premium models that can cost well over a
thousand.
Below are some of the most common types of boat seats you’ll
find on the market and on various kinds of vessels. Understanding their
differences will help you choose the seats that best match your needs.
Bench Seats
Bench seats are one of the most common seating options
across almost all types of boats. They come in a variety of styles and can seat
multiple people comfortably. Since they typically don’t include armrests, they
also work well for lying down or stretching out. Many larger boats add cushions
for extra comfort, and some benches offer built-in storage underneath.
Materials vary, but aluminium, plastic, and wood are the most typical.
Captain’s Chair
The captain’s chair sits at the helm and is one of the most
recognisable boat seats. You’ll find it in side-console boats such as a Quintrex
Renegade 440 SC and dual-console boats such as a Quintrex Ocean Spirit,
among others. These chairs come in many designs and quality levels, and most
are adjustable to suit the driver. Prices range from around $100 to more
premium seats that can cost over $1,000.
Lounge Seats
and give passengers plenty of room to stretch out. They’re
ideal for reading, chatting, sipping a drink, or even taking a nap. On some
boats, lounge seats can extend or fold down into fully reclined positions.
Swivel Seats
This type of seat is typically found on fishing boats, so it
makes it easier for the fisherman to move around while fishing. These seats are
smaller than a Captain’s chair with a lower backrest. Some swivels have
armrests, can turn 360 degrees, or have self-lubricating swivel bearings.
Swivel seats are versatile in the sense that they can fit standard seat hole
patterns.
Leaning Posts
Common on centre-console boats and bass boats, leaning posts
act as supportive bench-style seats. Captains often use them to lean against
while driving, especially if the boat doesn’t have a traditional captain’s
chair. Many leaning posts come with removable backrests and armrests, plus foot
and handrails. Some even have built-in rod holders at the back.
Flip-Flop Seats
Often seen on fishing and recreational boats, flip-flop
seats are comfortable and practical. The seat cushion typically lifts to reveal
a storage compartment underneath, making them great for stowing gear and
keeping the boat organised. Some models are insulated, allowing the compartment
to double as a cooler.
Choosing the right boat seat ultimately comes down to how
you use your boat and the level of comfort you want while out on the water.
Whether you prefer something simple and practical or a seat with more support
and features, there’s an option to suit every budget and boating style. By
understanding the different types of seats and what they’re designed for, you
can make a more confident decision to buy your favourite chair from a trusted marine boat shop and enjoy a
safer, more comfortable experience each time you head out.