Boat Types - LighthouseHarbor.com

With the variety of boats on the water these days, it is common to come across a type you have never seen before. Here are some of the most popular boats you may spot these days:

Bowrider Boats – Generally between 17’ and 35’, these runabout boats use stern drive or outboard engines. They hold six to ten people and have a bow area that is open with available seats.

Pontoon Boats – A flattish boat featuring two or three tubular flotation devices underneath it to create a platform. Pontoon Boats are ideal for fishing as well as pleasure boating and are low in cost considering their capacity.

Center Console Boats – With the console of the boat in the center, these open hull boats have a single deck that surrounds the console in order for a person to easily walk around the boat from stern to bow. These boats are ideal for fishing and range in length from 13’ to 45’.

Wakeboard Boats – Designed to create a large wake behind the boat, they usually contain heavy inboard motors that are specifically intended to generate a great and specifically shaped wake to allow a wakeboarder to jump and do aerial tricks. They also feature a tower with the purpose of elevating the pulling position of the towrope, allowing the rider an easier launch and longer airtime.

Deck Boats – Varying in length between 18’ to 28’, deck boats typically have a vee-bottom hull like a bowrider, but provide a vast seating area like a pontoon.

Cabin Cruisers- Featuring accommodations for its passengers inside the boat, and ranging in size from 25’ to 45’, these powerboats are usually set up with a toilet, dining area, and sleeping cabin. Some even feature air conditioning, heating, and power generators.

Sailboats – Powered partially or entirely by its sails, these boats are used for recreation, transportation, and even racing. Ranging in size and shape, smaller sailboats are called sailboards and larger sailboats are sailing ships.

For more information on boat types and brands, visit DiscoverBoating.com