Party Boat Views: Best Sides For Maximum Fun

Party boats are a great way to celebrate your next big event. They come in various types, from luxury yachts and catamarans to party barges and pontoon boats, offering unique and exciting experiences for different group sizes and preferences. When choosing a party boat, consider factors such as deck space, seating, swim platforms, sound systems, and storage. Purpose-built party boats provide a more specialized experience, while the vast selection available ensures you can find one that suits your needs and creates unforgettable memories with your friends and family.

Luxury yachts for larger groups

When it comes to luxury yachts for larger groups, there are plenty of options to choose from. These yachts offer the perfect blend of luxury, versatility, and manageability, providing an excellent balance of size for easy handling and luxury for maximum comfort.

One option is the Bayliner Element XR7, a modest yet user-friendly deck boat that can accommodate up to 16 people. It features a spacious deck layout with plush upholstered lounges and deep freeboard, ensuring the safety and security of its guests. The XR7 is no longer in production, but you can find it on the used boat market.

If you're looking for something even more spacious, the SACS Strider 18 can seat up to 22 people. This Italian-built RIB offers a vast platform area without compromising on performance, with the option of 2,400 hp of diesel power. The helm station is lavish and leather-trimmed, and the boat features three generously proportioned primary living areas: one in the cockpit, one at the stern, and one in the bow.

For those seeking a more unique party experience, the Wider 42 offers far more surface area than a conventional 42-foot craft thanks to its trademark expanding cockpit. With the push of a button, the deck space transforms into 60 square feet of party playground, complete with a carbon-fiber dinette that can be turned into a comfortable sundeck or stylish chaise lounge.

If you're looking for a more intimate setting without sacrificing luxury, the Mastercraft X55 may be the perfect choice. With a capacity of 18 people, it is one of the most comfortable wakeboard boats on the market. It features a spacious 73-square-foot cockpit area, a 14-square-foot swim platform, contoured rear seat backs, and a convertible starboard seat bench.

For an open-deck entertainment experience, consider the Fjord 48 Open. This yacht is all about alfresco partying, with a frameless windshield offering unobstructed panoramic views. The stern sundeck and fully fitted galley, which includes a barbeque, wet bar, and fridge, make it perfect for larger groups.

When it comes to making a statement, few yachts can compare to the Riva 100 Corsaro. With a length of 98 feet, it boasts two layouts in one: a full-length open deck placed on top of a full-length covered deck. It features five en-suite staterooms and can accommodate up to 20 guests, making it ideal for larger groups seeking a luxurious and memorable maritime adventure.

Catamarans for a more intimate experience

Catamarans are ideal for those seeking a more intimate experience on the water. Derived from the Tamil word, kattumaram, meaning "logs bound together", catamarans are boats with two hulls set wide apart, providing greater stability and comfort than traditional monohull boats.

One of the key advantages of catamarans is the ample space they offer. With two hulls, the living space is doubled compared to monohulls, providing a more intimate setting for social gatherings. The Nautitech catamaran, for instance, boasts a vast exterior salon and a spacious living area, allowing guests to relax and socialise while enjoying the pleasures of sailing.

Catamarans also offer greater stability, making them safer and easier to navigate, even for those with little sailing experience. Their design ensures a level surface, reducing the risk of seasickness. The larger deck area provides a spacious platform for activities such as snorkelling, diving, and sunbathing, all while enjoying the comfort and privacy that catamarans afford.

In addition, catamarans are more fuel-efficient than monohulls, making them a more environmentally friendly option. They are also safer, with watertight holes that guarantee buoyancy in the event of capsizing.

For those seeking a unique and intimate experience on the water, catamarans offer a combination of comfort, stability, and space that is hard to match. Whether it's a private celebration or a quiet getaway, catamarans provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience.

Party barges for dancing and drinking

Party barges are the perfect option for those looking for a floating party platform with ample space for dancing, drinking, and socialising. They can accommodate large groups of up to 50 guests or more, making them ideal for weddings, corporate events, and other grand celebrations.

When it comes to party barges, the more deck space, the better. A spacious deck allows for plenty of seating and room to move, ensuring your guests are comfortable and can socialise easily. A serious swim platform is also a desirable feature, providing easy access to the water for a quick dip.

To enhance the party atmosphere, look for barges with LED deck lights and a powerful sound system. This will allow you to set the mood, whether it's an upbeat dance party or a relaxed cocktail hour as the sun sets. A fridge or ice chest is also essential to keep drinks chilled, and a grill or barbecue can be a fantastic addition for cooking and serving food to your guests.

For added convenience and comfort, consider a party barge with a head compartment, providing a private and functional space for your guests. Extras such as Bimini tops or sun shades can offer protection from the elements, ensuring your party goes smoothly even if the weather takes an unexpected turn.

When planning your party barge celebration, be sure to book well in advance, especially during peak season. Understanding the barge's amenities and features will help you plan and ensure you have everything you need, from music to sunscreen, creating an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

Pontoon boats for a day on the lake or river

Pontoon boats are a great option for a day on the lake or river. They offer a wide range of performance, size, and amenities. While they were once used primarily for slow cruising, modern pontoon boats can be rigged with enough power to tow tubes and skiers and cruise at speeds of 40 mph or more.

Pontoon boats are very stable in the water and are generally easy to handle. They are ideal for larger groups, with sizes ranging from less than 16 feet to more than 25 feet, and the ability to comfortably carry a crew of family and friends. The boats feature expansive lounge areas, stand-up bars, sun pads, and swim platforms. They also have a shallow draft, typically around eight inches, which reduces the risk of running aground and allows for easy access to shore.

When it comes to customisation, pontoon boats offer a good deal of layout versatility. You can configure the craft to your specific needs, whether that's for entertaining, watersports, or fishing. They are also perfect for slow cruising and relaxing on the water.

However, it's important to note that pontoon boats are not as fast or efficient as boats with planing hulls, such as runabouts or deck boats. They may also struggle more in rough water conditions and can be a little harder to load on a trailer for transportation.

If you're considering a pontoon boat for a day on the lake or river, be sure to factor in the activities you plan to do, the size of your group, and your budget. You'll also want to keep in mind the specific conditions of the lake or river you'll be visiting, as well as any maintenance and storage requirements.

Speedboats for water sports

Speedboats are a great way to enjoy water sports, and there are many options available depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some things to consider when choosing a speedboat for water sports:

Type of Water Sports

Different types of water sports require different features in a speedboat. For example, if you are into water skiing, wakeboarding, or tubing, you will need a boat with a tow rope and a powerful engine that can pull you through the water at high speeds. On the other hand, if you are interested in stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking, a smaller, more manoeuvrable boat may be a better option.

Size of the Boat

The size of the boat will depend on the number of people you plan to accommodate and the activities you want to do. A larger boat will provide more space for guests and gear, but it may also be more expensive to purchase and operate. Consider the number of people you typically boat with and choose a size that can comfortably accommodate your group.

Engine Type and Performance

The type of engine and its performance will impact the speed, manoeuvrability, and overall experience of your speedboat. Inboard boats are typically recommended for water sports as they offer better performance and stability. Consider the horsepower and speed of the boat to ensure it can handle the activities you plan to do.

Additional Features

When choosing a speedboat for water sports, look for additional features that can enhance your experience. For example, some boats offer built-in coolers, ample storage space, and entertainment systems. If you plan to swim or dive, a swim platform and ladder can be useful. Consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting a speedboat.

Examples of Speedboats for Water Sports

• Explosion X44: This Italian-built RIB boat offers a triple rig of 350 hp outboard engines, delivering an impressive top speed. It provides ample deck space and customisation options, making it ideal for water sports enthusiasts who want both style and practicality.
• Mastercraft X55: With a capacity of 18 people, the Mastercraft X55 is a luxurious and spacious wakeboard boat. It features a wet bar, a sound system, and glittering LED lights, making it perfect for those who want to combine water sports with entertainment.
• Bayliner Element XR7: The Bayliner XR7 is a user-friendly deck boat that offers a spacious layout with plush upholstered lounges. It provides a variety of power options and entertainment features, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced boaters.

Frequently asked questions