Purchasing a boat is a wonderful way to spend a day on the lake or open seas without having to worry about all of the hassles that come with renting, and there are plenty of listings for watercrafts online. Boat types range from jet skis that can fit up to three people, to large yachts that can fit dozens of people.
Beginners looking for a boat should decide on a boat type, gain experience handling a boat, understand the expenses associated with ownership, and have access to a vehicle capable of towing the boat.
Boat Types
Beginners often get overwhelmed with searching for a boat due to the large selection that is available. A helpful tip is to examine your choices before making a purchase. Basic boats come in several class types defined by their size and hull design.
| Boat | Size (feet) | Hull | Cabin | Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jet Ski | 9 to 14 | Single | No | Works best for one or two people |
| Runabout | 14 to 24 | Single | No | Day fishing, cruising, water sports |
| Cuddy | 21 to 26 | Single | On larger models | Fishing, cruising, overnight stays on larger models |
| Sailboat | 14 to 45 or larger | Single | On large models | Sailing, fishing, overnight stays |
| Catamaran | 14 to 45 or larger | Double | On large models | Fishing, cruising, overnight stays |
| Pontoon | 15 to 30 | Double | On large models | Fishing, cruising, overnight stays |
| Houseboat | 25 to 150 | Single or double | Yes | Acts like a second home |
Size and location should both be major factors when it comes to selecting a boat. For example, small runabouts do well on inland lakes, as do large houseboats, but not so well on the open sea. On the other hand, sailboats do well in the strong ocean breeze, but require a knowledgeable sailor to handle them.
Choosing the Right Boat Type
Which type of boat the owner wants depends on his or her needs. Single people often enjoy jet skis or small open-bow runabouts. Families who spend a good deal of time at the lake typically prefer larger models. Some boats, such as a houseboat, can even act as a vacation home.
Buyers need to also consider the boating experience they wish to have. It is always a good idea to practice with rental boats first to gain experience. Certain types of boats, like large sailboats, are not beginner-friendly because captains have to know how to change and lower the sails. Boats driven by large motors, on the other hand, are easier to handle.
Towing and Storing the Boat
Caring for a boat means the owner has to have a way to transport the boat to the water and back, or choose a marina for docking the vessel. When it comes to towing, boaters need a trailer for the boat, a vehicle strong enough to haul the boat, and a tow hitch strong enough to hold the connection between vehicle and trailer. It is easier to buy a boat that fits with the current vehicle's towing capabilities than to purchase a boat that also requires a new truck strong enough to tow it.
| Class | Weight Limit | Compatible Boats | Compatible Vehicles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class I | 2,000-lb trailer weight/200-lb tongue weight | Jet ski, small rowboat | 4-cylinder engine or larger |
| Class II | 3,500-lb trailer weight/350-lb tongue weight | Small runabouts or boats up to 21 feet | Full size car, mini vans, 6-cylinder engine vehicles |
| Class III | 6,000-lb trailer weight/600-lb tongue weight | Boats over 21 feet or 3,500 lbs. | Trucks, 8-cylinder engine vehicles, four wheel drive ideal |
| Class IV | 12,000-lb trailer weight/1,200-lb tongue weight | Large yachts, sailboats, houseboats | Full size truck with four wheel drive |
Keep in mind that the boat's weight is more than just its fiberglass frame. It is also the weight of all the boat fuel, the motors, and anything on the boat deck. Owners should never exceed the towing weight for their vehicle, which they can find in the owner's manual.
Marina Storage
Owners who do not want to tow their boat everywhere can also choose to store it at a marina. Most marinas have several docking options, including dry docking, which stores the boat on land. Owners have to pay for marina storage, and the fees vary based on the marina's facilities.
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