Disclaimer: By no means is this an all-encompassing list of every power boat on the market today, but here are a few of the most common.

Center Console

These boats are predominately used as fishing boats, however, a center console can also work well for a variety of activities such as water skiing or day cruising with the family.

A boat is classified as a center console when it has a center-mounted console with a steering station. They are generally 18-40′ in length with outboard motors. There are endless options that a center console can be outfitted with. They can be basic, or if you are looking for more luxury there are models that can be outfitted with grills, small cabins, air conditioning, etc.

Bow Rider

A bow rider should be a versatile boat that incorporates style with the ability to entertain guests. Efficiency and an easy-running hull should be taken in to consideration when looking at a bow rider.

Up at the bow, the classic bow rider incorporates a V-shaped seating section where there should be sufficient length to enable you to sit facing forward in comfort. A bow ladder and a table fitting to generate a proper gathering space is also a great asset. If you are someone who likes comfort and entertaining, this may be just the boat for you.

Dual Console

Many boaters have multiple interests in activities they would like to partake in, and this is where the dual console designs come into play. So long as you take care to choose your options wisely, a dual console can be used for just about any activity on the water. If you plan to fish, you should beware of carpet in the cockpit and opt for fiberglass instead.

While a dual console is great at being versatile, you lose a bit of specificity with it. For instance, it wouldn’t be the absolute best wake boarding boat on the water nor would be be hands down favorite to fish off of when compared to something with a raised casting deck. However, if you are looking to do a bit of everything, these vessels can offer a one-stop-shop.

Cabin Cruiser

If you are looking for amenities and a boat you can spend the weekends on at various ports, look no further. Typically in the 25 – 45’ range, these vessels offer all the essentials to sleep overnight comfortably.

Cabin cruisers should include a galley (kitchen), head (toilet), and multiple berths (sleeping accommodations) to accommodate family or friends. Amenities include air conditioning or heating, hot water to shower or do the dishes, and electrical power, whether via shore power at the dock or generator. Underway, their size and deep-V bottom, or “hull”, produce a comfortable ride in a variety of sea conditions.

Cuddy Cabin/Walkaround

A cuddy cabin boat is nimble and maneuverable like a bowrider, but it differs from that open design because it has a cabin on the bow. A cuddy cabin does not necessarily need to have a a recessed walkaround an in many cases these terms can be used interchangeably.

The cabins on these boats are not going to be as luxurious and accommodating as a cabin cruiser. They serve as an area for passengers to get out of the sun, use the head, or even take a nap. You may find limited plumbing for a sink and there may also be space for a microwave, but each model is different.

Pontoon Boat

Historically, pontoon boats have been considered slow and heavy “party barges.” Thanks to advances in pontoon tube design, new boatbuilding materials, innovations in outdoor fabrics, and lighter, more efficient outboard engines, this reputation is beginning to subside.

But what is a pontoon boat? Generally speaking, it’s any sort of boat with a large, flat deck that’s mounted on two or more metal tubes called pontoons. Depending on your preferences, they can be outfitted for water sports, luxury cruising, or fishing.

Because of the large deck space, pontoon boats are perfect for entertaining and cruising. The tubes offer an incredible amount of buoyancy which allows designers to outfit the vessels with more luxury options such as lounge areas, stand up bars, and larger engines.

Members at CareFree Boat Club are able to choose from a wide variety of boats, many of which are listed above. Click the link to check out our 2019 Fleet! Instead of buying, the club affords you the option to choose from a number of boats at locations throughout the country. Can’t decide whether you want to do more fishing or more waterskiing with the kids? All you have to do is go online and choose the type of boat you want for the day. It’s that simple.