When you're diving into the world of recreational boating, you'll often hear the terms "runabout" and "bowrider" thrown around. While they share similarities and are both popular choices for leisure boating, there are key distinctions that make each type better suited for different activities and preferences. Understanding these differences is crucial to choosing the right boat for your needs.

Runabout Boats

The term "runabout" is a general classification for a small, open motorboat designed for general purpose use. Think of it as an umbrella term that encompasses various types of boats intended for day trips and recreational activities. Runabouts typically range in length from about 14 to 25 feet.  

Characteristics of Runabouts

Versatility: Runabouts are designed to be versatile and adaptable to various activities. They can be used for cruising, watersports, fishing, and general transportation on the water.  

Open Design: Runabouts typically have an open design with seating in the cockpit area.  

Engine Placement: Most runabouts have the engine located at the stern (rear) of the boat. A Yamaha outboard engine can be placed on the back of the boat. Sterndrive can also be placed at this location either.  

Examples of Runabouts

Ski Boats: Designed for watersports like skiing and wakeboarding.

Fishing Boats: Smaller boats designed for fishing in lakes and rivers. A Quintrex Fishabout is one example of a runabout boat.

General Purpose Boats: Open boats used for cruising and general recreation.

Bowrider Boats

A bowrider is a specific type of runabout characterised by an open bow area that provides additional seating in the front of the boat. This distinctive design feature is the primary difference between a bowrider and other types of runabouts. A Quintrex Cruiseabout is one example of a bowrider boat.

Characteristics of Bowriders

Open Bow Seating: The defining feature of a bowrider is the seating area in the bow, which allows for more passengers to sit comfortably.  

Social Orientation: Bowriders are designed with a focus on socialising and passenger comfort. The open bow area provides a great space for passengers to relax and enjoy the ride.  

Versatility: Like other runabouts, bowriders are versatile and can be used for various activities, including cruising, watersports, and general recreation.  

Bowrider Advantages

Increased Passenger Capacity: The open bow area significantly increases the seating capacity compared to a traditional runabout with a closed bow.

Social Space: The bow area provides a comfortable and social space for passengers to relax and enjoy the company of others.

Family-Friendly: Bowriders are a popular choice for families due to their versatility and ample seating.  

Key Differences of Both Boats

Runabout is a general term for a small, open motorboat designed for general use.  

Bowrider: A specific type of runabout characterised by an open bow area that provides additional seating.  

Choosing the Right Boat for You

The choice between a runabout and a bowrider depends on your individual needs and priorities.

Consider your passenger capacity needs: If you frequently have more passengers, a bowrider is the obvious choice.

Think about your primary activities: If you do more of fishing or watersports and the bow space is less important, a different type of runabout might suffice. If socialising and cruising with a group is your priority, a bowrider is ideal.

Evaluate your budget: Bowriders tend to be slightly more expensive than similar-sized runabouts due to the additional seating and features.

Ultimately, both runabouts and bowriders offer enjoyable experiences on the water. By understanding the differences between these two types of boats, you can make an informed decision and choose the perfect vessel to create lasting memories on the water when you need to purchase one from your local marine shop.