Boat Deck Materials: Choosing The Best Option

Deck boats are versatile vessels that offer ample space for entertainment and recreation. When it comes to choosing the best material for a boat deck, there are several options available, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Pressure-treated pine, for example, is a common and affordable choice, but it requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and decay. PVC soft deck flooring is another option that offers a teak deck look without the high cost and maintenance associated with natural teak. When selecting the best material for a boat deck, it is essential to consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, cost, and aesthetics to ensure the deck meets the needs of the boat owner.

Wood vs Composite vs PVC

Wood has traditionally been the most common type of decking material for boats, but composite and PVC are becoming more popular.

Wood

Wood is a good option for boat decking because it is affordable, and pressure-treated pine, the most common and affordable type of wood, can last 20 years or more with annual maintenance. However, it does require regular maintenance, including sealing every year or every other year to prevent water saturation, rot, and decay. Wood is also prone to splinters, and can be uncomfortable for bare feet, especially in hot weather.

Composite

Composite is a blend of wood fibres or sawdust and recycled plastic materials. It is more expensive than wood, but it requires less maintenance, and is more durable and long-lasting. Composite decking does not rot, warp, fade, or attract insects. It is also available in a wide range of colours, textures, and finishes. However, it can be difficult to repair, and may need to be replaced entirely if it becomes scratched or chipped. Composite is also not ideal for bare feet, as it can become very hot in direct sunlight.

PVC

PVC is made from synthetic plastic polymers and is designed to minimise maintenance and prevent common problems with wood, such as mould and insect infestations. It is highly resistant to moisture, rotting, warping, and splintering, and it is easy to clean. PVC is also available in a range of colours and textures, although its aesthetic appeal may not match that of natural wood. It is lightweight and easy to transport and work with, but it may be too stiff to accommodate unusual shapes or contours. PVC is also more expensive than wood.

Deck Boat Brands

Deck boats are versatile vessels that offer ample space, making them perfect for families and groups of friends. They are ideal for fishing, watersports, and cruising. When it comes to deck boat brands, there are several reputable options available, each with its own unique features and advantages. Here are some of the top deck boat brands to consider:

Starcraft

Starcraft is a well-known manufacturer of deck boats, offering a range of sizes and features to suit different needs. Their boats are known for their high performance, versatility, and family-friendly design. The Starcraft SVX OB 171, for example, is a great starter boat with plenty of room for up to ten people. Starcraft also offers the SCX 231 Surf, which is designed specifically for watersports enthusiasts with its ballast system and surf tabs.

Hurricane

Hurricane is another popular choice for deck boats, known for their customisability and versatility. Their SunDeck models range from 18 to 26 feet in length and offer both inboard and outboard engine options. The Hurricane Sundeck OB, their largest platform, can accommodate a high passenger capacity and offers a premium cockpit with dual Simrad consoles. The Hurricane SunDeck 201 OB is also a popular choice, known for its expansive layout and powerful performance.

Sea Ray

Sea Ray is a renowned brand when it comes to deck boats, offering both outboard and stern drive powerplants. Their SDX series, including the SDX 250 and SDX 290, provide exceptional space and luxurious features. The SDX 250, in particular, stands out for its versatility, comfortable seating, and powerful engine options. Sea Ray's Quiet Ride technology also enhances the passenger experience by reducing vibrations and sound levels.

Bayliner

Bayliner is a great option for those seeking an affordable deck boat without compromising on quality. Their Element M15 model is one of the most affordable options on the market, offering a comfortable and stable ride for up to five people. Bayliner's unique M-hull design maximises stability, making it a safe and secure choice for families.

Crownline

If you're looking for a deck boat that exudes luxury and elegance, Crownline is the brand to consider. Their E 305 XS model is a true standout, offering a host of high-end features such as a drawer refrigerator, a freshwater shower, and an enclosed head compartment. Crownline's hybrid deck boats also offer impressive performance and a wide range of customisation options, making them perfect for families who love watersports.

Tahoe

Tahoe deck boats offer the best of both worlds, combining sporty performance with fishing capabilities. Their lineup includes dedicated "fishing packages" with features like rod holders, electric trolling motors, and fish finders. The Tahoe 2150 CC is a great example of their commitment to both performance and angling, making it a versatile choice for enthusiasts.

Princecraft

Princecraft is a deck boat brand that caters specifically to fishing enthusiasts. Their Ventura model line is designed with fishing in mind, offering features like livewells, rod boxes, and multiple fishing-seat-base-mount locations as standard equipment. You can also opt for additional fishing electronics and a bow-mount electric trolling motor to enhance your angling experience.

In addition to these brands, there are several other reputable deck boat manufacturers to consider, including Stingray, Four Winns, Glastron, NauticStar, PlayCraft, and Chaparral. When choosing a deck boat brand, it's important to consider your specific needs, budget, and the features that are most important to you and your family.

Deck Boat Hulls

Deck boats are versatile vessels, offering performance, space, and comfort. They are ideal for day touring, towing, and entertaining, with more open space for guests and power for watersports. They are similar to bowriders in performance and to pontoon boats for pleasure.

Deck boats are designed with a hull shape that maximises deck space. They usually have a flattened bow and widely flared hull, with a primary entertainment and lounging area at the bow, in addition to the typical stern cockpit arrangement. They are often made of fibreglass, but some are aluminium.

There are several types of hulls used for deck boats:

• Deep-V Hulls: These hulls cut through waves and ride smoothly in choppy waters. They require more power to push up onto a plane and tend to roll or bank in sharp turns. They also have less interior volume for storage or accommodations.
• Tri-Hull or Tunnel Hull: These are popular with fishermen and sports boat enthusiasts. They are quite buoyant and stable, and they get on plane quickly. They offer good volume below and significant deck space above. However, they tend to pound in choppy water, so they are more suitable for lakes or calm bays.
• Catamaran Hulls: Catamaran hulls provide a stable ride and lots of deck space. They are more expensive to design and produce than other hull types.
• Cathedral Hulls: These hulls provide great stability over the boat's beam, making them ideal for short-length beamy vessels that need to cut through a chop. They are less rolly than a standard vee hull.

When choosing a deck boat hull, consider your intended use, the type of water you will be navigating, and the amount of space and power you require.

Deck Boat Uses

Deck boats are versatile vessels that can be used for a variety of activities, from leisurely day cruising to watersports and fishing. Here are some common uses for deck boats:

Family Fun

Deck boats are excellent for families as they offer a range of activities to suit different ages and interests. Families can enjoy cruising, fishing, swimming, and watersports together. Features such as a swim platform with a ladder, a Bimini top for shade, and ample power for watersports make deck boats ideal for family outings.

Entertaining

The spacious decks of deck boats provide a perfect setting for entertaining guests. The open layout allows for comfortable seating, dining, and lounging arrangements. Features like cup holders, a foldable table mount, and a marine audio system enhance the entertaining experience.

Watersports

Deck boats can be used for a variety of watersports, including waterskiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. They offer sufficient speed and power for towing, and some models even come with sports towers and tow rings. The wide decks also provide a stable platform for participants to get in and out of the water easily.

Fishing

While deck boats are not specialised fishing vessels, they offer more space and comfort than dedicated fishing boats. Features such as rod holders, livewells, and ample storage for fishing gear make deck boats suitable for fishing excursions. Some deck boat brands, like Princecraft and Tahoe, offer dedicated fishing packages with additional fishing-specific features.

Day Cruising

The comfortable seating and smooth ride of deck boats make them well-suited for day cruising. Their versatility allows for a relaxing cruise or a more adventurous exploration of coastal areas, lakes, and rivers. The social spaces and sunbathing areas on deck boats further enhance the day cruising experience.

Deck Boat Maintenance

• Avoid scrubbing the deck, as this can damage the soft fibres between the teak wood's grains. Instead, opt for a regular wash with saltwater, which will also preserve the natural oil in the timber.
• If scrubbing is necessary, always scrub against the grain of the wood with a soft-bristled brush and light pressure to minimise damage to the soft timber.
• Use a mild detergent or boat soap for cleaning. Add a small amount of bleach if there is mildew or to brighten the deck.
• Consider using a teak-brightening product for aesthetic purposes, but note that this does not contribute to preserving the wood.
• Sanding the deck can be beneficial for longevity. An 80-grit sanding on the deck and a 120-grit finish on the covering boards can provide a good balance between traction and resistance to abuse.
• Apply a teak sealer to prolong the natural appearance of the wood and seal the grain. Some sealers also contain biocides and UV inhibitors for added protection.
• Keep an eye out for signs of a deck in need of repair, such as loose caulking, movement of wooden plugs over screw heads, and splits or cracks in the timber. Address these issues promptly to prevent further deterioration.

Another common material for boat decks is wood, specifically pressure-treated pine. While it is affordable and can last 20 years or more, it requires annual maintenance. Here are some tips for maintaining a pressure-treated pine deck:

• Seal the deck with a water sealer annually or biennially to prevent water saturation and subsequent rot and decay.
• Be prepared for splintering over time, which can be a safety hazard for those using the deck with bare feet.

PVC soft deck flooring is also an option that offers advantages such as lower maintenance and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional teak decking. When considering PVC decking, here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Ensure the synthetic teak decking contains ultraviolet (UV) light stabilisers to prevent premature degradation from sunlight exposure.
• Look for closed-cell material, such as SYNBOATEK®, which will not absorb liquids.
• Lighter-coloured and less dense materials will stay cooler than darker, denser options.

Frequently asked questions