The Perfect Family Ski Boat: Best Options For Fun

There are many factors to consider when choosing the best family ski boat. The size of the boat, the type of propulsion, and the activities you plan to use it for are all important considerations. For example, if you're looking for a boat that can accommodate a large family, you'll need to consider a larger boat with plenty of seating and space for everyone to move around comfortably.

Bowriders are a popular choice for families as they offer high versatility, ample seating, and easy access to the water. They also come in a variety of sizes to match different budgets. Fish-and-ski boats are another option, offering the ability to chase finned critters in the morning and enjoy water sports in the afternoon. Cabin cruisers, on the other hand, are ideal for families who want to venture further and spend more time on the water, offering the comforts of a mobile home.

When it comes to propulsion, jet boats offer the advantage of no propeller, which can give parents peace of mind. Pontoon boats are also a stable and comfortable option, with some models providing exciting performance and the ability to enjoy watersports. For those who want to try something different, sailing offers a unique experience that requires skill and teamwork but may be more complex to operate.

Ultimately, the best family ski boat will depend on your specific needs and preferences, balancing comfort, performance, and budget to create memorable experiences on the water.

Fish-and-ski boats

When it comes to specific models, there are several options available on the market. For example, the Larson 206 SEI is a fish-and-ski boat where the two rear seats can be mounted on the bow and stern as pedestal seats, and it also includes a livewell and trolling motor. Another option is the Tahoe fish-and-ski boat, which one user describes as a "slight compromise on the fishing side but works well enough".

If you're looking for a boat that can accommodate a larger group, the Lowe Deep-V Fish & Ski series might be a good choice. These boats are designed to be versatile and safe, with features like protective walk-through windshields, lockable rod lockers, and demountable ski pylons. They also offer comfortable seating and ample storage space.

When purchasing a fish-and-ski boat, it's important to consider your priorities and how you plan to use the boat. If you're an avid fisherman, you might want to ensure the fishing features are adequate for your needs. On the other hand, if you prioritise water sports, look for models with more powerful engines and features like ballast and towers.

Additionally, don't forget the importance of testing the boat before you buy it. Take it for a test drive, paying attention to vibration, functioning trim, response, planning, shifting, and reverse. Check the boat's hours, inspect the hull and propeller for damage, and inquire about its maintenance history and storage.

Jet boats

One of the biggest perks of jet boats is safety. Jet boats are propelled by a powerful jet of water, eliminating the risk of propeller injuries. This feature gives parents peace of mind, especially with young children, as it removes a potential hazard present in traditional propeller-driven boats.

In addition to safety, jet boats provide excellent handling and minimal draft. They are known for their manoeuvrability and responsive performance, making them a joy to operate for both experienced and novice boaters alike. Their shallow draft also allows them to navigate in shallow waters, providing access to a variety of aquatic environments.

When it comes to comfort and amenities, jet boats deliver. They offer copious seating and easy access to the water, making them ideal for families who enjoy swimming and water sports. Jet boats are available in various sizes, catering to different budget ranges, and can be equipped with features such as outdoor galleys or kitchens, enclosed head compartments, and entertainment systems.

Lastly, jet boats are built for versatility. Much like their counterparts, they can be used for a range of waterborne activities, including joyrides, towing water toys, and watersports such as water skiing and wakeboarding. Their adaptable nature makes them a favourite among families with diverse interests and hobbies.

When considering a jet boat for your family, it's important to remember that jet propulsion tends to be slightly less fuel-efficient than traditional propulsion systems. However, with their superior handling, safety features, and versatility, jet boats are an excellent choice for creating memorable experiences on the water with your loved ones.

Pontoon boats

The key to using a pontoon boat for water sports is choosing the right motor. Outboard motors now offer a wide range of horsepower options, from 9.9HP to 600HP. For water skiing, a motor with sufficient torque and power is required, and a higher horsepower engine (around 150HP and above) is ideal for pulling skiers and tubers. The number of people on board and the size of the boat will also impact the speed, so these factors should be considered when choosing an engine.

Some pontoon boat manufacturers also offer an arch or tower feature, which can be used for wakeboarding. It is important to check with the manufacturer to ensure that the arch has a tow rating before using it for this purpose.

Overall, pontoon boats are a versatile and enjoyable option for families and water sports enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities, including water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. By choosing the right engine and considering the specific needs and skill levels of those on board, a pontoon boat can provide a fun and memorable experience on the water.

Sailing boats

Catalina 22 Trailer Sailboat

The Catalina 22 is a popular choice for families, offering excellent sailing characteristics, stability, and ease of handling. With a length of 22 feet, it can be towed by an SUV or a standard pickup truck. The cabin provides generous space and some versions even have a pop-up companionway hatch for standing headroom. This sailboat is perfect for day trips or short overnight excursions and can usually sleep up to four people.

Catalina 30 Cruising Sailboat

The Catalina 30 is another excellent option for families, offering a spacious cabin with standing headroom and sleeping accommodations for six or more adults. Its wide beam and high freeboard make it stable and minimize heeling, making it comfortable for inexperienced sailors. This sailboat is capable of open ocean sailing and can handle rough waters, making it ideal for both coastal waters and bluewater voyages.

Lagoon 470 Cruising Catamaran

For larger families or those seeking ample space and comfort, the Lagoon 470 is an impressive 47-foot catamaran. It offers a spacious center cockpit, several separate bedrooms, and private bathroom/shower combinations. Catamarans provide excellent stability and safety, making them ideal for long-haul sailing or full-time living. However, they can be more challenging to manoeuvre in tight spaces and require more docking space.

Beneteau 49 Bluewater Monohull Sailboat

The Beneteau 49 is a spacious and modern monohull sailboat that rivals the best multihulls in terms of space and comfort. With a length of nearly 50 feet, it provides ample accommodations for larger families, including separate enclosed sleeping areas. The sailboat is designed for bluewater cruising and features automated rigging and control systems, making it safe and easy to handle even in foul weather. Its wide stance and semi-flush deck contribute to its excellent balance and ability to handle tough weather conditions.

Hunter 245

The Hunter 245 is a compact, easily handled, and rugged family cruising yacht. It offers a comfortable saloon with 6-foot standing room and seating for six at the table. While the open forepeak is suitable only for children or small adults, the boat also features a private heads compartment, a cosy quarter berth, a decent galley, and a reasonable chart table.

Gib'Sea 77

The Gib'Sea 77 is a French-built cruising yacht from the 1980s, available with either a deep fin or a stub keel and centreplate. It offers surprising roominess for its size, with a saloon that can comfortably seat a family of four. It sleeps six at a push but is more realistic for four. The forecabin vee-berth is over 6 feet long, and there is also a quarter berth, although it is quite cosy. The Gib'Sea 77 has a private heads compartment and a functional galley.

Sealine S24

The Sealine S24 is a trailerable boat that provides ample space for a small family to enjoy a weekend on the water. It features a large cockpit with wrap-around seating for four to six people and sleeping accommodations for four. The moulded GRP private heads compartment, galley, and ample storage space make it a competent seagoing vessel. The Sealine S24 is capable of cruising at speeds of 18-20 knots and can reach top speeds of over 25 knots with a Mercruiser petrol engine.

Dufour 2800

The Dufour 2800 is a popular cruising yacht known for its high-volume hull and light, airy interior. It offers a conventional layout, ample headroom, and a spacious galley that can easily feed a family of four. The forecabin features a large vee-berth, and there are additional sleeping options in the saloon and quarter berth. The Dufour 2800 is easy to sail and provides a pleasant motion in a seaway, making it a comfortable choice for families.

Etap 28S

The Etap 28S is a well-balanced and easy-to-sail yacht, making it ideal for families with youngsters. Its open-plan interior offers features typically found on larger boats, including an adult-size forepeak vee-berth, a spacious heads with a shower, and a comprehensive galley. The saloon provides generous headroom, and the cockpit is spacious yet narrow enough to prevent falling about at sea. The Etap 28S is rigged with a self-tacking jib and has all sail controls led to coachroof-mounted winches, making it simple to tack.

Linjett 39

The Linjett 39 is a premium yacht that offers easy, fast family cruising and occasional racing in luxurious comfort. It is a Scandi brand with a 50-year heritage, run by three brothers who also build the high-performance Shogun Yachts in carbon epoxy. The Linjett 39 is quiet and stable, providing instant confidence on the water. It offers excellent upwind performance and lively reaching capabilities. The interior can be configured with two or three cabins, and the latter option includes a separate shower/wet hanging compartment aft. The joiner work is first-class, and you can choose between traditional mahogany or contemporary European oak.

Walkaround boats

• Grady-White Seafarer 228: A no-fuss, family-friendly option with a cockpit designed for sport fishing and an interior boasting a king-sized well. It is listed on the used boat market for around $30,000.
• Sea Ray Sun Sport 230: Sea Ray offers several models and floor plans ranging from 19 to 40 feet, ensuring you find something that suits your family. The below-deck cabin is spacious and comfortable, and the boat has a 50-gallon engine and world-renowned performance. The starting price is just under $62,000.
• Pro-Line 20 Express: Pro-Line has been manufacturing award-winning family fishing boats since 1968, and the 20' Express is no exception. Accommodating seven people, this cruiser is perfect for families who want to fish, cruise, lounge, or sleep on board. It's equipped with features like a diving board and a 27-gallon live well. You can usually find them for just under $27,000.
• Sea Hunt Victory 225: Sea Hunt's Victory series offers roomy cabins, fish boxes, and aerated live wells. The boats range from 20 to 24 feet, providing a wide range of options for both adventures and budgets. While the cabin is spacious, there is a lack of tackle and rod storage. The price is just under $90,000.
• Campion Allante 635 OB SC: This fiberglass wraparound boat is comfortable and ideal for families with small children, as the cabin can sleep up to three people. It suits all the fishing needs of enthusiasts, but its 60-gallon fuel tank makes it less suitable for long journeys. You can find them used for around $40,000.
• Dusky 227 Fish Around Cruiser: This boat is just under 23 feet long and has a 230-horsepower engine. It offers all the standard cabin amenities, including comfy cushions, lights, and doors. An incredibly affordable option, it costs approximately $55,000.
• Key West 2300 Walkaround: While I could not find detailed information on this particular model, it appears to be a perfect family boat for fishing and skiing.

These walkaround boats offer a range of features and price points to suit different family needs and budgets.

Frequently asked questions