By Barry Pickthall  July 26, 2018

The boat industry is a huge. There are various types of motorboats available on the market today from runabouts to powerboats. This article will tell you all you need to know about boats, hull shapes, construction, engines and more.

When you have a strong knowledge of boats and their types, it will help you negotiate from a position of strength with your brokers such as Seaward boats brokerage who will guide you through your boat’s lifespan, whether you are selling or getting an upgrade.

The function of a boat will decide the hull shape and design. Powerboats such as trawlers and tugs will have a rounded hull shape while offshore fishing boats are usually fitted with a deep-vee shape to help contend with choppy seas. However, there are three major types of hulls.

A Displacement Hull

A displacement hull simply means that the amount of water the hull displaces remains constant as the speed increases. In layman terms, the hull never really stays on top of the water. Rather, it rides in it by pushing large amounts of water out of the way.

Displacement hulls are fuel efficient at low/minimal speeds and can be powered by smaller engines for a little while. On the downside, displacement hulls are the slowest of the hull types.

Semi-displacement Hull

A semi-displacement hull is designed to allow the boat to partially escape being in the water. This translates to a higher speed as it rides on top of the water. This also means more horsepower and fuel consumption than a displacement hull. Cabin cruisers, trawlers, and tug powerboats often have semi-displacement hulls.

Planing Hull

A planing hull is designed to ride mostly on top of the water at high speed. A planing hull transitions from riding like a displacement hull at low speeds to planning as it gains speed and climbs up on top of the water. As a result of its speed, planing hulls require more horsepower and fuel than other hull types. Most leisure boats are built on planing hulls as well as other boat types.

Now let’s check out some types of boats and their uses.

Bass Boats

Bass boats are typically used for freshwater fishing. They sport a low freeboard and a V hull. They are best used for bass fishing on inland lakes and rivers.

Seaward boats are popular for their rugged and special gear, high horsepower and trolling motors. They are sleek and beautiful to drive. Because of the special gear, high horsepower outboards and trolling motors, they are purchasable at a relatively high price point.

Bay Boats

Bay boats as the name implies are designed for use in shallow bays or shallow waters. With their 18′-24′ lengths, they are finished with fiberglass because they are used in salt or brackish waters.

Bowriders

A bowrider is designed for extra seats. Bowriders are mostly 17′-30′ and powered by either stern drive or an outboard engine. Bowriders are often used as a family boat but can also be used for fishing and water sports.

Center Console Boats

Center console boats get their name from their helm being on the console in the center of the boat. The open hull allow anglers to walk around without having to navigate around the console.

Convertible Boats

Convertibles are better suited for offshore fishing and cruising. They usually have large cabins, galleys and are perfect for leisure cruises and offshore fishing.

Deck Boat

Deck boats have a wide beam and a V-shaped hull. The deck boasts plenty of seats that are suitable for parties or a hangout. Deck boats are mostly used for swimming or water sports.

Dinghy

A dinghy is a small boat typically powered by oars, outboards and sails. Dinghies are often carried or towed by a larger boat for going ashore. They are quite affordable and very good for those who are new to boating.

Dual Consoles

Dual Console boats have two dashboards and two windshields with enough space to walk between them allowing access for seating and/or fishing.

Houseboats

Just as the name implies, houseboats are floating houses. They function just like a house with full kitchens, bedrooms and living areas. They are the ultimate family leisure boat.

Runabout boats

Many boats are called runabouts. A runabout is a small powerboat powered by an outboard or a stern engine. Runabouts can be used for water sports, cruising and fishing. A runabout is a boat usually powered by an outboard or sterndrive engine.

There you have it. Ten type of boats you can choose from when purchasing a new boat. There’s something for everybody depending on what you need it for!

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