Types of Powerboats

Jet Boats

So described because they are powered by jet pumps linked to engines. Fun and usually wet, small versions starting at about 12 ft. can take two or three along; larger versions ranging to 18 ft. can accommodate a couple more folks or pull tubers or skiers. (Trailerable; 1-5 people)

Bow Riders

All-purpose runabouts with extra seats and forward access to the bow, a convenient spot to relax and sun. Outboard or stern-drive power. Smaller versions are fine for water skiing; larger versions allow some camping. All are suited to short-distance cruising. Mid-teens to upper-20s ft. long. (Trailerable; 1-5 people)

Cuddy Cabins

Small cruisers with compact cabins to camp, do some simple cooking, and get out of the weather. Outboard or stern-drive power. Great day cruisers and overnighters for small groups. Also used on big water for trolling for fish. High-teens to about 30 ft. (Trailerable; 1-5 people)

Deck Boats

Feature a one-level deck throughout and often rails or gunnels all around, all built on a performance hull. Multi-purpose craft that serve anglers, swimmers, sunbathers, evening social cruisers, and folks at the dock. These are stable craft. A number of guests will find room to enjoy being aboard; six friends on smaller versions, eight to ten on larger ones. Some have small cabins. Most often outboard powered, though some feature stern drives. Range from mid-teens to upper-20s. (Trailerable; 1-8 people)

Fish and Skis

Interior layouts of these craft allow boaters to enjoy the two most popular on-water activities. Have enough power, usually outboard, to pull a skier or two, and to get to the fishing spot in short order. Storage allows taking skis and tackle. Three or four can ride and fish in lengths from teens to upper 20s. (Trailerable; 1-5 people)

High-Performance Boats

Designed for speed, these can be deep-vee or catamaran-hulled craft with big power. Creature comforts are included in the cockpit and below decks; fishing craft are more spartan. Outboard and stern-drive power, often sophisticated engines, can push even larger craft to speeds in the 60-mph range, sometimes faster. Size starts in the mid-20s and tops out in the 50s. (Trailerable; 1-5 people)

Jon Boats

Multi-purpose camping, freshwater fishing and hunting craft, typically aluminum and powered by a small to moderate outboard or oars. Length in mid-teens to low-20s; accommodates three to five on bench seats, plus gear. (Trailerable; 1-5 people)

Pontoon Boats

Two tubes, usually aluminum, under a stable deck surrounded by railings and powered most often with outboards. Often covered with a canopy, featuring plenty of seating space (sometimes convertible to sleepers). Good for fishing, swimming and sunning. Start in the high-teens and go to the upper-20 ft. range. (Trailerable; 1-8 people)

Runabouts

Feature open or closed bows, outboard or stern-drive power, and mostly vee-hulls. Fun for water skiing and wakeboarding, fishing, cruising, sunning throughout the day. Some add camper canvas to allow overnights. Probably the most popular fiberglass boat made, though some are aluminum construction. Range from about 16 to upper 20 ft. (Trailerable; 1-8 people)

Waterski Boats

Powered by inboards, these "throw" a perfect wake for very serious water skiers and wake boarders. Used at tournaments and for training. Passengers usually include the driver and a "spotter." Range from about 18 ft. to the mid-20s. (Trailerable; 1-5 people)