What are the Different Types of Boats? Everything You Need Know for An Enjoyable Summer

Classifications of Boats

There are many different types of boats available for purchase today. You can typically classify all boats into one of three categories.

Sailboats

A sailboat is a type of boat that moves thanks to large pieces of fabric attached to the mast. When the wind blows, they fill the material, moving the boat through the water. Sailboats are not the easiest to operate. If you're going to purchase a sailboat, you should first look into taking courses to learn how to sail.

Motorboats

Motorboats run on gas-powered engines. The engines are either inboard or outboard. If inboard, they are located on the inside of the boat's hull. If outboard, they hang over the back of the boat, in the water. Motorboats can go just as fast as cars.

Man-Powered Boats

These boats are quite smaller and rely on man-power to operate. Typically, oars or paddles are used to move the boat. These boats move very slowly and tend to make for an enjoyable experience on the water.

Common Types of Boats

Now that we’ve established the three boat classifications, it’s imperative to look at some of the more common options available.

Fishing Boats

Fishing boats are a type of powerboat geared explicitly for sport fishers. They often come with overhangs to provide shade, since fishermen typically spend long periods in the sun. Modern fishing boats could also come equipped with things such as rod-holders and sonar to help make the fishing experience much more pleasant. 

Bowrider Boats

If you're looking to enjoy the water with friends and family, you'll want to look into bowrider boats. Bowrider boats are a type of motorboat that have ample seating. Not only do they have room near the wheel, but they also have seating on the bow of the boat.

Dinghy Boats

Dinghy boats are small, versatile multipurpose boats. While most people tend to attach a small motor to the back of the dinghy for convenience, it’s also possible to erect a mass to use it as a sailboat. In worse-case scenarios, these boats are small enough to row with oars. If you have a dinghy, you could buy one of those used outboard motors to attach to the back of the unit.

Kayaks

Kayaks are man-powered boats. They do not come with sails or motor capabilities. Typically, kayaks are available in one or two-person models. Kayaks usually only work in shallower water and are not suited for use on an ocean.

Powerboats 

Powerboats provide arguably the most adrenaline when on the water. Powerboats offer the most in terms of speed and performance. If you’re looking to reach top speeds when on the water, a powerboat will be your best choice.

Types of Boats to Consider

Once you've identified the type of boat you'd like, you'll need to sort through the various buying options available. Below, we've picked out a sample of boats that you could consider when looking to purchase a boat this summer.

2013 Glastron Boats GT-185/BR

The GT-185/BR from Glastron is one of the most popular powerboats available. This product has a list price of approximately $33,000 and an average retail price of $21,000. This boat is a bowrider that can seat up to eight people comfortably. The boat measures 18’ long and has an 89” beam.

The boat also comes with a Mercruiser engine from Mercury. Boats will receive a stern drive and a v^ engine with 4.3L displacement. The Mercruiser provides boats with an incredible 220 horsepower.

G3 Boats Bay 18 DLX

Another one of the most popular powerboats on the market today is the Bay 18 from G3 Boats. The boat has a suggested list price of $30,000 and an average retail price of $26,000. This outboard boat provides boaters with 115 horsepower, which should still be enough for water sports behind the boat. The boat is 18’ long and has a beam that’s 8’ long.

2017 Tracker Marine PRO TEAM 175 TXW

The 2017 Tracker Marine PRO TEAM 175 TXW powerboat is an excellent option for fishers. The suggested list price is around $16,500, and the average retail price is about $14,000. The boat is designed explicitly for bass fishers.

The boat comes with a Mercury Fourstroke engine with outboard configuration. Even though this is technically a powerboat, you’ll only receive 20 horsepower from the engine. That’s because the product is intended more for navigating through low-lying waters.

2006 MacGregor 26M/SL

The 2006 MacGregor 26M/SL is an excellent option for sailors. The suggested retail price is around $20,000, while the average retail price is a bit more than $13,000. The hull of the boat is made entirely of fiberglass and measures 26’. Because it’s a sailboat, there is no engine on this vessel.

Which Boat is Best for You?

If you’re looking to spend the summer on the water, you’ll want to make sure you have a boat that meets your needs. If you are looking for a peaceful time on the water, you’ll want to look into sailboats or man-powered vessels. Sailboats are better for deep water, such as the ocean, while man-powered boats are best for shallower waters.

Any other circumstances will require powerboats. No matter if you’re going on a fishing trip or are looking to go tubing or waterskiing with friends and families, a powerboat should meet your needs.