Small Boats, Big Fun: Choosing The Best Vessel

There are many types of small boats, and the best one for you will depend on your needs and preferences. Small boats are usually cheaper to buy and operate than larger boats, and they can access tiny waterways that bigger boats can't. They are also easier to tow or load onto a trailer.

If you're looking for a small boat, you could consider a kayak, canoe, Jon boat, dinghy, inflatable boat, pontoon boat, or even a jet boat or personal watercraft (PWC). When choosing a small boat, consider factors such as budget, boat ramp access, water depth, and intended use. For example, if you plan to use the boat for fishing, you'll want to ensure it has enough storage and features like rod holders. If you're looking for a comfortable ride, a pontoon boat might be a good option, while a Jon boat or dinghy could be a more affordable choice.

Some specific small boat recommendations include the Bayliner Element M15, the Tahoe T16, the Carolina Skiff 162 JLS, the Tracker Classic XL, and the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120. For a family-friendly option, the Bayliner Element E16 is a great choice, offering a straightforward operation, incredible visibility, and plenty of storage space. If you're looking for an affordable option, the Tracker Grizzly 1648 SC is a no-frills, durable aluminium fishing boat starting at $14,395.

So, whether you're a first-time boat buyer or an experienced boater looking to downsize, there are plenty of small boat options to choose from.

Aluminium fishing boats

One of the most popular aluminium fishing boats is the Tracker Grizzly 1648 SC. This no-frills boat is powder-coated and has a Mod V hull design for smooth sailing. It is 16 feet long and can accommodate all your fishing needs with its VERSATRACK accessory mounting and two pedestal seat bases. The Tracker Grizzly 1648 SC is available for a starting price of $14,395.

Another popular option is the Lowe Boats Stinger 8 Series Bass. This boat is designed for top performance and shallow water fishability, with big decks, advanced livewells, and a fast, smooth hull design.

For a more compact option, consider the Lowe Boats Skorpion 16. This boat is fully equipped for fishing, compact, and easy to own, with the same tough-as-nails all-welded build as the bigger boats in the Skorpion line.

Jon boats

Overall, Jon boats are an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable, reliable, and versatile small boat for calm and shallow waters.

Skiffs

The simplicity of skiffs means that boat ownership is simplified. Basic outboard motor maintenance and rinsing the boat down at the end of the day are the main concerns. There are fewer systems or accessories that can break or fail.

However, skiffs have their limitations. Their small size restricts the number of people and the amount of gear that can be brought on board. They are not suitable for large, open bodies of water that are subject to rough seas. Creature comforts are also limited, and the seats may be as basic as flat benches.

The steering system is another factor to consider. Many skiffs are controlled with tiller-steer outboards, which can take some time to get used to as the boat reacts inversely to hand motions.

Despite these limitations, skiffs are a great choice for those who want a simple, low-maintenance, and affordable boat.

• Solo Skiff: Made in Florida, this skiff is a "motorized kayak" that can be paddled or run with a small engine. It offers ample storage and the ability to run in shallow water. Priced around $2,300, it's a cost-effective option that doesn't require a trailer, as it can fit in a truck bed.
• Glasser Boats 12: A tiny skiff with great build quality, needing only a 15 HP engine to get going.
• Tuff 16: A highly-regarded little boat that can run a 40-60 HP engine.
• Angler Bay 171 Skiff DLX: Priced at $14,299.
• Stalker 136C Micro Skiff: Priced at $9,789.
• FishSkiff 16 Solo Start Up Pkg: Priced at $1,980.
• Sea Eagle Fish Skiff 2 Person Seat Pkg: Priced at $2,199.

Dinghies

There are several types of sailing dinghy, each with its own unique features and advantages. Here is a list of some of the best dinghies for beginners:

Training Boats

These dinghies are designed specifically for training. They are safe and simple, offering different levels of learning. Training boats can be singlehanders or doublehanders. Singlehanders are sailed by one person, allowing you to handle every aspect of the boat yourself. Doublehanders are sailed by two people, providing a sociable experience and an opportunity to learn from each other.

Dinghy Cruising Boats

Dinghy cruising boats are ideal for those who want to sail with their family and explore estuaries and creeks. They are perfect for a leisurely sail and can accommodate multiple people. Wayfarers are one of the most popular cruising dinghies, often used by sailing schools. Other options include the CL 16 and the Drascombe.

High-Performance Dinghies

High-performance dinghies are powerful and fast, making them ideal for racing at regattas around the world. They usually have a spinnaker, a sail designed for sailing upwind, and a trapeze wire to hang the crew weight outside the boat rail, reducing drag. Examples include the Fireball, International 505, and the Thistle.

Racing Dinghies

Racing dinghies are built for competitive racing and are typically very light and shaped for speed. They may require two or more people to sail, with the crew responding quickly to changes in the wind. The Snipe is one of the most popular racing dinghy classes, known for being relatively easy to learn and adaptable to different weather conditions. Other options include the International 14 and the Enterprise.

Multihull Dinghies

Multihull dinghies have more than one hull, such as catamarans or trimarans. They are very stable and fast, making them a good choice for beginners who want to learn new skills like trapezing. The Sprint 15 is the largest single-handed catamaran class in the UK, while the Dart 18 is a popular double-handed option.

When choosing a dinghy, consider factors such as your budget, sailing experience, location, and intended use. Joining a sailing club and trying out different boats can also help you make an informed decision.

Inflatables

Inflatable boats are a great, low-maintenance, and affordable option for boating enthusiasts. They are easy to launch, load, and store, and are perfect for a relaxing cruise with family or friends. Inflatables come in two types: those that are completely inflatable and those with a rigid hull surrounded by an inflatable collar, known as RIBs (rigid inflatable boats). RIBs are considered seaworthy and are used in commercial and search-and-rescue operations, in addition to recreational boating.

The main advantage of inflatables is their durability and ability to bounce off objects in the water. They are typically made from materials like Hypalon or PVC fabrics, which provide excellent buoyancy. Inflatables are also easy to manoeuvre and can access tiny waterways that larger boats cannot. This makes them ideal for exploring narrow creeks or small lakes with your family.

When it comes to pricing, inflatables offer a wide range of options. You can find good deals on used inflatable boats, with prices varying from a couple of hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on the size and condition. For example, the Sea-Doo Switch 13 Sport, the smallest version of the 2022 Boat of the Year, offers exciting handlebar-style controls and impressive manoeuvrability. It has a reconfigurable floor plan, allowing you to change the boat's focus from social cruising to a cleared-out fishing floor plan.

If you're looking for something more affordable, the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 120, technically a kayak, offers a unique boating experience. It is propelled by a 12-volt Minn Kota trolling motor with 45 pounds of thrust, mounted through the bow for uninterrupted fishing. Priced at $4,349.99, it's a great option for those who want to combine kayaking and fishing.

Frequently asked questions