Runabout Boats: Choosing The Best Vessel For You

A runabout boat is a small motorboat that can hold between four and eight people. Runabouts are usually between 20 and 35 feet in length, although some sources state that they are typically under 25 feet. These boats are well-suited for pleasure activities such as boating, fishing, and water skiing, as well as for racing or serving as a ship's tender for larger vessels. They are characterised by their open bow design with seating and a walk-through windshield. Runabouts are generally easy to manoeuvre, making them a popular choice for casual boat enthusiasts.

Runabout boats are small, speedy, and multi-faceted

The term "runabout" is used to describe a number of different types of boats, including bowriders, deck boats, jet boats, and others. They are characterised by their small size and powerboat capabilities. While there is no official designation, most people consider boats with lengths in the upper teens to the lower 20s to be runabouts.

Runabouts are generally inexpensive to buy and operate due to their diminutive size. They are also easy to tow, launch, and retrieve. Their multi-purpose nature makes them versatile for a wide range of activities, and there is a huge range of choices available in the runabout market.

However, their small size also comes with some disadvantages. Runabouts have limited capacity and are not suitable for use in big seas or heavy weather. They also have limited fuel capacity and range. Additionally, their general-use design may not be the best suited for specific activities that require dedicated equipment, such as fishing or watersports.

Despite these limitations, runabouts are a perfect option for casual users or those new to boating. They offer a flexible and affordable way to enjoy a variety of water-based recreational activities.

They are well-suited to activities like fishing, water sports, and cruising

Runabout boats are well-suited to activities like fishing, water sports, and cruising. While they are designed for all-around use, their simplicity and versatility make them great for general-purpose activities.

For fishing enthusiasts, runabouts offer a good balance between dedicated fishing boats and non-fishing boats. They provide the option to bring a rod or two, while still offering the comfort features of a non-fishing boat, such as ample seating and swim platforms. This makes them ideal for casual anglers who want to enjoy a day on the water with family and friends, without compromising on the fishing experience.

When it comes to water sports, runabouts are perfect for beginner-level activities. They may not have all the advanced equipment of specialised boats, but for activities like tubing, kneeboarding, and even waterskiing, a runabout's simplicity can be an advantage. Their nimble handling and predictable rides in rougher water conditions make them suitable for those looking to try out new water sports without the need for complex setups.

Runabouts are also excellent for cruising and touring. Their small size makes them easy to trailer, allowing families to explore different lakes and bays without the hassle of a large vessel. They are simple to operate, affordable, and low-maintenance, making them a popular choice for those who want to enjoy a day on the water without the complexities of larger, more specialised boats. Runabouts often have entertainment features and comfortable seating, enhancing the cruising experience for passengers.

Additionally, runabouts can serve as a great platform for those interested in racing. Their relatively small size, powerful engines, and hydroplaning capabilities allow them to skim atop the water's surface at high speeds. This, combined with their nimble handling, makes them well-suited for those looking to experience the thrill of racing on the water.

Runabouts are usually powerboats and relatively small

Runabout boats are usually powerboats and are relatively small, typically accommodating between four and eight people. While there is no official size designation, runabouts are generally considered to be between 16 and 35 feet in length, with most people considering boats in the upper teens to lower 20s as runabouts. They are characterised by their open bow design, with seating and a walk-through windshield providing additional seating.

The term "runabout" is used to describe a variety of boat types, including bowriders, deck boats, jet boats, and others. They are typically powered by sterndrives, outboards, or even jet engines. Runabouts are known for their versatility and are often used for pleasure activities such as boating, fishing, and water sports. They are easy to manoeuvre and are perfect for families or casual boat enthusiasts who want to enjoy a range of water-based activities.

One of the main advantages of runabouts is their small size, which makes them inexpensive to buy and maintain. They are also lightweight and easy to tow, launch, and retrieve. However, their small size also comes with some disadvantages, such as limited capacity and range. Runabouts are typically not suited for heavy weather or big seas and are usually operated in protected waterways or open waters during good weather conditions.

When it comes to powerplants, runabout owners have the option to choose between sterndrive and outboard configurations. Sterndrives are similar to automotive engines and provide the advantage of a larger swim platform or sun pad. On the other hand, outboard powerplants have gained popularity due to their lower cost, reliability, and quieter operation.

Overall, runabouts offer a great balance of performance, versatility, and affordability, making them a popular choice for boating enthusiasts, especially those who enjoy a variety of water-based activities.

They are generally inexpensive to buy and operate

Runabout boats are generally inexpensive to buy and operate. Their small size means they are relatively cheap to purchase. For example, the 20-foot-8-inch Bayliner Element E21 is priced as low as $25,500. Runabouts are also easy to tow, launch, retrieve and maintain. Their size and simplicity make them low-maintenance. They are usually light enough to be towed by a regular vehicle.

Runabouts are also inexpensive to operate. They are fuel-efficient, owing to their small size and low weight. They are also versatile, so they can be used for a wide range of activities, including fishing, waterskiing, tubing, sailing, and cruising. This means that you can use one boat for many different purposes, rather than needing to buy a specialised boat for each activity.

Runabouts are also highly customisable. They can be purchased with or without major accessories like Bimini tops, trailers, and marine electronics. You can also choose to add extra features like stereo systems, premium seating, lighting, upholstery, freshwater showers, and even a mini-fridge.

The runabout market offers a huge range of choices, including boats with all levels of fit and finish, trim, and accouterments. This means that you can find a runabout that fits your budget and your specific needs and preferences.

Runabouts are easy to tow, launch, and retrieve

Runabouts are usually between 16 and 35 feet in length, with most people considering boats in the upper teens and lower 20s to be runabouts. They are well-suited to moving about on the water, and their open bow design with seating and walk-through windshields makes them a popular choice for families.

The first runabouts were built in the 1920s and were small, fast, and powerful wooden boats that took advantage of the power of outboard motors. Today, runabouts are made from a variety of materials, including wood, aluminium, fiberglass, and plastic. They can be powered by inboard engines, outboards, jet drives, or inboard-outboard drives.

The versatility of runabouts makes them a great choice for a range of water-based activities, including fishing, water sports, cruising, and touring.

Frequently asked questions