the water. With a wide variety of boat types and sizes available, it can be overwhelming to determine which one suits your needs. In this article, we will explore different types of boats and their sizes, helping you make an informed decision when selecting the perfect vessel for your water adventures.

The 3 Primary Types of Boats

Even though there are several different types of boats, it’s important to know the general classification of boats and what differentiates it from one another. Most people will classify boats into three main types:

·         Unpowered or man-powered boats (don’t necessarily need a motor engine to navigate the boat)

·         Sailboats (propelled by sails alone)

·         Motorboats (engine-powered boats and quite impossible to run the boat without engines)

Now we’ve got that out of the way, let’s discuss some of the more specific and common types of boats you see in the market:

Personal Watercraft

Personal watercraft, often referred to as jet skis, are compact and designed for one to three passengers. These small vessels offer exhilarating speed and maneuverability, making them popular for recreational water sports enthusiasts. Personal watercraft are also easy to transport and store, making them a convenient choice for boaters with limited space or those who enjoy thrilling solo rides.

Jon Boats and Dinghies

Jon boats and dinghies are small, flat-bottomed boats that are excellent for fishing and transportation in shallow waters. They are typically made of aluminium or fibreglass and come in lengths ranging from 8 to 16 feet. These compact vessels offer stability and maneuverability, making them popular choices for anglers who prefer fishing in narrow waterways or secluded spots. Jon boats and dinghies can accommodate one to four passengers, and their lightweight design allows for easy towing and storage.

Motor Yacht Boats

These boats are perfect for luxurious family trips, leisure activities, parties at sea, and long sails out on the ocean. Most motor yachts have either one or two diesel engines. Subtypes of motor yachts are cruising yachts, weekenders, and sailing yachts. These boats need high-powered boat engines such as the Yamaha high thrust four stroke range.

Bowriders and Runabouts

Bowriders and runabouts are versatile boats designed for family fun and watersports. With an open bow area and seating in the main cockpit, these boats can accommodate several passengers. Bowriders and runabouts come in various sizes, ranging from 16 to 30 feet or more. They offer comfortable seating for a small group of people and some storage compartments which are well-suited for activities such as cruising, water skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding. Their moderate size allows for easy trailering and access to a wide range of water environments such as lakes and coastal waters.

Fishing Boats

Built exclusively for fishing, fishing boats have a variety of different sizes and can be used on both salt and freshwater bodies. Fishing boats can be both manned and unmanned types. For example, a lot of all-purpose fishing boat models include a front bow, rod lockers, a trolling motor system, an outboard power and live wells.

Aluminium fishing boats weigh are great for both freshwater and offshore fishing activities. They weigh a lot less but are highly durable.  These boats are usually designed with slim profiles and consist of 2-3 anglers on board. Most Quintrex boat models have similar features mentioned earlier which makes them great for fishing and non-fishing activities.

However, some fishing boats are meant for offshore environments and they come in bigger sizes and are built with strong materials to withstand saltwater and harsher conditions.

Jet Boats

These boats are quite similar to bowriders, in terms of hull design. They offer spacious seating and a swim platform. They are known for their high maneuverability and are powered by ejected water from behind the vessel. The propulsion system is secured inside the hull.

Centre Console Boats

Center console boats are versatile vessels that feature a console in the centre of the boat, providing 360-degree access around the deck. These boats are commonly used for fishing and can handle various water conditions, including coastal areas. Centre consoles range in size from 18 to 40 feet or more, offering ample deck space, storage, and fishing features such as rod holders and live wells. They are known for their durability, stability, and ability to handle rough waters, making them a popular choice for serious anglers and boating enthusiasts.

Whether you prefer small and nimble vessels for solo adventures or spacious boats for family outings, there is a wide range of options available to cater to your needs.