
Boating is a fun family activity that can bring parents and kids closer together as they work as a crew through shared responsibilities. When choosing a boat for the family, it's important to consider factors such as the type of boating activities your family enjoys, the size of your family, and your budget. Here are some of the best boat options for families:
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Type of boating | Joyrides, towing water toys, fishing, swimming, sailing, water sports, cruising, etc. |
Size | Depends on family size; 12-foot for a family of three, 20-foot for a family of six |
Accessories | Kitchen facilities, entertainment options, safety features, etc. |
Location | Ocean, lake, saltwater, freshwater, shallow water, etc. |
Budget | Consider cost of upkeep, fuel, repairs, insurance, etc. |
Experience | Consider level of boating experience when choosing a boat |
What You'll Learn
- Pontoon boats are stable, ideal for fishing, swimming and lounging
- Cabin cruisers are mobile homes on water, great for long trips
- Bowriders are versatile, with ample seating and easy water access
- Jet boats are safe, with excellent handling and no propeller
- Sailboats are slower, complex, but foster teamwork and skill-building
Pontoon boats are stable, ideal for fishing, swimming and lounging
Pontoon boats are a popular choice for families due to their stability and versatility. They are ideal for a range of activities, including fishing, swimming, and lounging.
Pontoon boats are characterised by their wide, flat design, providing a stable platform for families to enjoy a variety of activities on the water. Their stability makes them suitable for families with younger children, as well as those who enjoy fishing or lounging on the water. The wide, flat surface of a pontoon boat provides ample space for fishing gear, lounge chairs, and even swimming platforms.
In addition to their stability, pontoon boats offer excellent versatility. They can be equipped with powerful engines, providing thrilling performance and the ability to enjoy watersports. While they may not handle large waves as well as monohull boats, larger pontoons and "tritoons" are capable of handling choppy waters.
Pontoon boats also offer plenty of space for families to relax and lounge. They often feature comfortable seating, Bimini tops for shade, and even changing rooms. Some models come with built-in grills, blenders, and other entertainment features, making them perfect for family gatherings or parties.
Overall, pontoon boats provide a stable, versatile, and comfortable platform for families to enjoy a range of activities on the water, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a boat that can accommodate fishing, swimming, and lounging.
Boat Preparation: Essential Checks Before Setting Sail
You may want to see also
Cabin cruisers are mobile homes on water, great for long trips
Cabin cruisers are like mobile homes on water, making them great for long trips. They are a type of powerboat that comes with a well-appointed cabin, equipped with beds, a kitchen (called a "galley"), and a bathroom ("head"). They range in size, but are generally large enough to offer a comfortable living space for the whole family, yet small enough to be handled by a single operator.
Cabin cruisers are perfect for leisurely day trips or extended overnight stays, offering the versatility to accommodate different boating needs. They provide ample space for sleeping, relaxing, and storing personal items. The galley and head facilities are crucial for comfort, with some larger models offering full-size heads with showers.
One of the biggest advantages of cabin cruisers is their tank capacity, which is designed for longer voyages. On average, a cabin cruiser can hold around 200 gallons of gas, but this can vary depending on the model. Their size and weight often require dual or quadruple engines, which results in higher fuel consumption.
Cabin cruisers offer a unique experience that combines comfort, adventure, and freedom. They allow you to explore secluded coves, dock at coastal towns, or anchor in a lake. With a cabin cruiser, you can spend extended periods on the water, visiting distant ports and enjoying quality time with your family.
When choosing a cabin cruiser, consider factors such as size, layout, amenities, engine performance, and fuel efficiency. They typically measure between 25 to 45 feet in length, with smaller models starting at 17 feet and larger models reaching up to 50 feet. The layout and configuration can vary, with living quarters usually found towards the front or aft of the vessel.
In summary, cabin cruisers offer a mobile home experience on the water, making them ideal for families seeking long trips and adventures. They provide a comfortable and versatile boating solution, allowing you to explore various destinations and create unforgettable memories.
The Ultimate Guide to Inflatable Boat Care and Maintenance
You may want to see also
Bowriders are versatile, with ample seating and easy water access
Bowriders are a fantastic option for families, offering versatility, ample seating, and easy access to the water. They are one of the most popular choices for family boats, and for good reason.
Firstly, bowriders are highly versatile. They can be used for a wide range of waterborne activities, from joyrides and towing water toys to swimming and fishing. While they may not be ideal for certain specialised activities like overnighting or fishing, they can still be adapted for just about any activity you can think of. Their versatility extends to their size as well, with bowriders available in a vast range of sizes to match different budgets and needs.
Secondly, bowriders offer copious amounts of seating. They can accommodate a large number of passengers, making them perfect for families of all sizes. Whether you're looking for a small 16-foot runabout or a spacious 30-plus-footer, there's a bowrider that can comfortably seat your entire family.
Lastly, bowriders provide easy access to the water. Their open design allows for effortless entry and exit, making them perfect for families who want to enjoy a range of water activities. This easy access also makes them ideal for families with young children, as it simplifies the process of getting everyone in and out of the boat.
Bowriders are an excellent choice for families due to their versatility, ample seating, and easy water access. They can accommodate a range of activities and passenger numbers while providing a simple and safe way to enjoy the water. Whether you're a family of experienced boaters or just starting out, a bowrider is a fantastic option to consider.
Boat Insurance: Trailering and Coverage Complexities
You may want to see also
Jet boats are safe, with excellent handling and no propeller
When it comes to choosing a boat for the family, safety is a top priority. Jet boats are an excellent option in this regard, as they are known for their safety features and ease of handling. One of their biggest advantages is the absence of a propeller, which provides peace of mind for parents. While boating is generally a safe activity, the thought of a rotating propeller under the water can be concerning. Jet boats eliminate this worry by using a powerful jet of water for propulsion, removing the risk of propeller-related injuries.
The excellent handling of jet boats further enhances their safety profile. They are highly responsive and offer sportscar-like performance, with quick acceleration and nimble manoeuvring. The captain maintains superior visibility, even as the boat planes, due to the minimal bow-rise. Additionally, jet boats have a shallow draft, typically only the depth of the hull, allowing them to navigate shallow waters with ease and reducing concerns about running aground.
The safety and handling advantages of jet boats are particularly appealing to families with young children or those new to boating. The absence of a propeller reduces the risk of injury during water sports or swimming, making jet boats ideal for families who enjoy active water activities. The jet propulsion system also allows for thrilling acceleration and responsive handling, providing a fun and exciting experience for families seeking a blend of performance and safety.
While jet boats offer exceptional safety and handling characteristics, it is important to consider some of their limitations. Jet boats can be more challenging to steer than boats with rudders, especially at low speeds or when docking. They may also be louder than traditional propeller-driven boats, particularly at high speeds, due to their high-revving engines. However, newer models have made significant improvements in noise reduction.
Overall, jet boats are a safe and appealing option for families seeking a combination of performance, safety, and excellent handling. The absence of a propeller, coupled with their responsive manoeuvring and shallow draft, makes them a popular choice for family boating adventures.
A Boat Trip Gone Wrong: Natalie's Story
You may want to see also
Sailboats are slower, complex, but foster teamwork and skill-building
Sailboats are a great option for families who want to bond by learning to sail together as a crew. While they are slower and more complex to operate than powerboats, these "drawbacks" can be seen as advantages in some ways.
Sailing a boat from dock to destination takes skill and teamwork, and every family member has a role to play. This can be a valuable learning experience for children and can bring parents and kids closer together as the family becomes a "crew" through shared responsibilities.
Additionally, modern sailboats come in various sizes and comfort levels, and since they don't require large, powerful engines, they generally cost significantly less than powerboats of a similar size. This makes sailboats a more affordable option for families.
When choosing a sailboat for your family, consider the number of passengers, the type of waters you'll be sailing, and the activities your family enjoys. If you plan on taking longer cruises involving overnight stays, you'll need a sailboat with a galley, cabin, and toilet facilities.
Heeling characteristics, or the tendency of a sailboat to lean over under sail, are also important to consider. Sailboats with wider, more rounded hulls tend to handle waves better and provide more comfort in rough weather, making them a good choice for family sailing.
Finding the Waterline: Cardboard Boat Building Basics
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The best boat for your family depends on your budget, the size of your family, the type of water you'll be boating on, and the activities you want to do. Here are some options:
- Bowrider: These are one of the most popular family boats due to their versatility, seating, and easy access to the water. They come in various sizes and can be used for most water activities.
- Cabin cruiser: These boats are ideal for families who want to go on longer trips with more amenities. They are like mobile homes on the water and often have full galleys, private bathrooms, and ample seating.
- Fish-and-ski boats: These boats are designed for both fishing and watersports and include features for both activities, such as livewells and rod holders for fishing, and a ski-tow pylon and ski lockers for watersports.
- Jet boats: Jet boats have excellent handling and minimal draft. They are also propeller-less, which can give parents peace of mind.
- Pontoon boats: These boats are stable, comfortable, and ideal for lounging on the water. They can also be used for watersports and fishing.
When choosing a family boat, consider the following:
- Location: The type of water you'll be boating on will determine the type of boat you need. For ocean waters, you'll need a bigger boat with a deeper draft, while for calm inland lakes, a smaller boat is more suitable.
- Family size: The size of your family will determine the size of the boat. A bigger family means a bigger boat to accommodate everyone comfortably.
- Activities: Consider the activities your family enjoys. If you want to do watersports, look for a boat with higher speeds and more power. If you want to go fishing, ensure the boat has the necessary features.
- Experience: If you're new to boating, opt for a simpler boat that's easy to operate and maintain.
For a family of four, a boat that can accommodate around five to six people should be sufficient. Here are some options:
- Bowrider: A 16-foot bowrider can typically carry up to six people and offers a good balance between size and versatility.
- Pontoon boat: A 15-foot pontoon boat can hold up to five passengers, while a 16- to 21-foot boat can accommodate six to ten people.
- Deck boat: Deck boats are similar to bowriders but offer a bit more room and can usually accommodate five or more people.
For a larger family of six, you'll need a bigger boat that can comfortably accommodate everyone. Here are some options:
- Cabin cruiser: Cabin cruisers offer ample space and amenities for larger groups. They often have multiple cabins and can accommodate six or more people.
- Pontoon boat: For six to ten people, consider a larger pontoon boat in the 16- to 21-foot range.
- Motor yacht or power cruiser: These boats are ideal for entertaining large groups in luxurious surroundings. They offer multiple cabins, indoor and outdoor social areas, and full cooking facilities.
When choosing a saltwater boat for your family, consider the following:
- Size and draft: For boating on the ocean, look for a bigger boat with a deeper draft to navigate rough waves and choppy water.
- Activities: If you plan to do watersports, consider a boat with higher speeds and more power. If fishing is your main activity, look for a boat with features like livewells and rod holders.
- Family size: Ensure the boat has enough space to accommodate your entire family comfortably.
Some specific models to consider for saltwater cruising include:
- BRIG Eagle 8: This boat offers flexible seating and a large heads compartment, which can also store watersports gear.
- Nimbus T8: This boat is narrow enough to fit on a trailer, saving you marina fees. It has excellent safety features and attention to detail.
- Jeanneau Merry Fisher 895 Marlin: This boat has two cockpits and can seat six people. It has an enclosed wheelhouse and two cabins, making it suitable for longer trips.