Guide choosing boat, So, you’re thinking about getting a boat for your next adventure, huh? That’s awesome! Whether you’re planning to hit the lake, take a weekend trip along the coast, or even explore some wild rivers, the right boat can really make all the difference. But here’s the thing: picking a boat isn’t as simple as just grabbing the first one you see. There’s a lot more to it than that, trust me.
I’ve gone through my fair share of boat-shopping mishaps (which I’ll get into in a minute), but I’m here to make sure you don’t have to go through the same learning curve I did. Let’s dive in with some easy-to-follow tips that’ll help you pick the right boat for your next big adventure.
1. Figure Out What Kind of Adventure You’re Planning
Before you even start looking at boats, you need to think about where and how you plan on using it. Are you going on calm lakes, rushing rivers, or salty ocean waters? There’s a boat for every kind of water, and if you don’t choose the right one, you could end up spending more time fixing things than actually enjoying your trip.
For instance, the first boat I ever bought was for a summer road trip through the Adirondacks. I didn’t really think about the fact that some of the lakes there were super calm, while others could get choppy with a breeze. I got this big, heavy pontoon boat, thinking it was perfect for everything—wrong! It was awesome for chilling in calm areas, but when we hit some windier spots, the boat felt unstable and sluggish. In hindsight, I should have opted for a smaller, more agile fishing boat or a kayak—both would’ve been perfect for exploring those smaller, calmer lakes.
So, step one is to really think about the kind of waters you’re planning to explore. Kayaks are great for narrow, quiet rivers or lakes. Speedboats are fantastic if you’re into fast rides on open water. But if you’re heading out into the deep ocean, a center console boat is going to be a far better option.
2. Pick the Right Size for Your Crew
If you’re planning to bring friends, family, or even your pets, size really does matter. The size of the boat you choose depends on how many people you’ll need to fit, plus any extra gear.
The first time I went boating with friends, I didn’t think to check how much space we’d actually need. We squeezed five of us into a boat that was made for three—let’s just say, things got… cozy. Not to mention, we had to take turns sitting because we didn’t have enough seats.
I learned the hard way that if you plan to bring a group, something like a pontoon boat or a deck boat with plenty of seating might be the way to go. If it’s just you and one or two others, a small fishing boat or a jon boat will do just fine. Also, think about your gear. If you’re bringing fishing equipment or camping gear, make sure the boat has enough storage space.
3. Manual or Motorized: What’s Your Preference?
Are you someone who likes to paddle, or do you prefer the ease of an engine? When I first started out, I thought paddling a canoe would be great for getting closer to nature. It was a peaceful experience, but after an hour of paddling against the current, I found myself wishing I had a motor. That’s when I learned that there’s a boat for every level of effort.
If you want a more hands-on experience with nature, kayaks and canoes are fantastic choices. They’re light, portable, and perfect for exploring smaller, less crowded areas. But if you’re looking for something with less effort, especially for longer trips, a motorized boat is the way to go. I ended up getting a small powerboat for fishing trips, and it was a game-changer. Just be sure to consider how easy it is to maintain the engine—it’s one of those things you won’t think about until it breaks down in the middle of your adventure.
4. Durability and Maintenance: Don’t Overlook This
Okay, this is something I totally overlooked when I first got into boating: maintenance. You can’t just buy a boat and forget about it. You’ll need to clean it, check the engine, and ensure that everything is in good shape.
After buying my second boat, a lovely aluminum fishing boat, I quickly realized that I needed to spend some time keeping it in good condition. The good news is, aluminum boats are low-maintenance and super durable, especially in saltwater. However, fiberglass boats can get scratched and damaged more easily, so they might need a little more TLC if you’re out on rougher waters.
When you’re looking for a boat, think about how much effort you’re willing to put into maintaining it. If you’re a beginner, opt for a boat that’s easy to care for. Boats with smaller engines or inflatable boats are great choices for first-timers because they are low-maintenance and much easier to store.
5. Budget: Get Real About What You Can Afford
Now, the hard part. Boats aren’t exactly cheap, and there’s a huge range in pricing. If you’re just starting, you can probably find a good used boat for a fraction of the price of a new one. Just make sure to get it inspected! I learned the hard way when I bought a used boat from someone who didn’t disclose some minor engine issues. Ended up spending more money fixing it than I would have if I’d just bought new.
Also, don’t forget about the hidden costs, like maintenance, storage, insurance, and even fuel. It adds up fast, so make sure you factor all of that into your budget. If you’re just looking for weekend fun, a small motorboat or jet ski can be an affordable option, while larger yachts or luxury boats are going to set you back a bit more.
6. Transport and Storage: Where Will You Keep It?
Finally, think about where you’ll store and transport your boat. Some boats are small enough to store in your garage or even on a roof rack. But larger boats will require trailers and storage at a marina. If you don’t have a trailer or easy access to a storage space, you might want to consider something smaller and more portable, like a kayak or inflatable boat.
Choosing the right boat for your adventure doesn’t have to be a stressful decision. By thinking through your needs—what kind of waters you’ll be exploring, how many people will be joining you, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do—you can find the perfect boat for your next trip. Trust me, the right boat will make all the difference in turning a regular adventure into something unforgettable.
boats are meant to be fun, so take your time to pick the one that’s just right for you. The journey’s part of the adventure!
This section brings together practical advice based on personal experience and aims to be easy to understand for anyone new to boating. It focuses on things to consider when choosing a boat and makes the decision process feel less overwhelming.
