If you're just jumping into the boating world, hopefully, you've spent plenty of time perusing your options on our Boat Finder tool, learning all about the different kinds of boats out there. We can promise you one thing: buy your own, and you'll be in for exciting adventures, closer family connections, and a lot of fun.
Now, of course, you're faced with the important decision of which boats for beginners will be best for you and your family. And that's what our team is here for! Today's blog post will go over how to find your ideal vessel, the costs of boat ownership, and which boats are ideal for first-timers.
Finding The Best Boat For Beginners: Keep It Simple
When choosing the best boats for beginners, one overall theme should be in mind: keep it simple. Naturally, this means different things to different people, but what's important is to avoid biting off more than you can chew.
Start with a large motor yacht or power cruiser, for example, and you'll need to learn how to operate complex propulsion and electrical systems, electronics, and accessories. At the same time, you'll have to get your feet wet regarding things like docking a boat, marine navigation, and boat maintenance.
That doesn't mean first-time boat buyers never start big — sometimes they do — but the learning curve can be very steep. And if you go that route, you should be confident you have the time and ability to handle it. Start with a simple boat, however, and you'll be able to master captaining it in no time.
Costs of Boats for Beginners
Another major thing to consider when on the hunt for the best boat for beginners is the cost of boat ownership. While boating, as a whole, is surprisingly affordable compared to many other recreational activities, there can be some expenses beginner boaters don't necessarily foresee.
Variables like maintenance costs, insurance, licensure, and off-season storage can come into play, and no one likes to be surprised by unexpected expenditures.
For some people, this is a non-issue. But if you have a family on a budget, be sure to calculate as many potential costs as you can before choosing a specific boat to begin with. That way, the surprises can be kept to a minimum.
Learn More About the Costs of Boat Ownership
The 6 Best Boats for Beginners: What to Consider
Flexibility, versatility, cost, and function are all important things for first-time boat buyers to think about. Our advice? Write a list of everything you want your first vessel to have. What's necessary, what would be cool but isn't required, and most importantly – the budget.
Considering all those factors, here are the styles of boats best for beginners:
1. Dinghies
At the far end of the best boats for beginners spectrum, consider a dinghy known for being versatile and lightweight. Its propulsion system can be as simple as a small outboard engine, a sail, or even a pair of oars. There's not much more to take care of than a hull and some seats – which is perfect for when you're just starting a new hobby.
We'll always champion dinghies for first-time beginner boat buyers because they're usually under 15 feet long, perfect for attaching to a trailer. Plus, they're simple and designed in a way anyone can use. And while your capabilities may be limited, you should feel comfortable operating the boat after just a few trips!
2. Aluminum Fishing Boat
Of course, you may want to experience more flexibility on when, where, and how to go boating than a dinghy can afford. There are still plenty of relatively simple boats to choose from, like aluminum fishing boats, which take no more than a season or two to learn from stem to stern.
These boats for beginners are known to be rugged, versatile, and perfect for navigating shallow or secluded waters. Plus, they can be transported in the bed of a pick-up truck or on the roof rack of a car in some cases.
Learn More About Aluminum Fishing Boats
3. Pontoon Boat
In the same way, people choose aluminum fishing boats as easy boats for beginners, pontoon boats are thought of in the same way. After a season or two, you should feel very comfortable navigating it – and it's spacious enough you can show it off to all your friends and family.
First-time buyers love pontoon boats for their stable flat decks and reputation of being easy to maneuver. And the best part? They don't tip over easily! They're perfect for having guests on board for a cruise, fishing, or simply enjoying the serenity of the water.
4. Bowrider
At this point, we'll broaden things even further. Let's say you've already tried wakeboarding and fishing and enjoyed both. Now you're intrigued by the prospect of taking your family swimming or a group of friends tubing. In that case, an even more versatile boat, such as a bowrider or a deck boat, might be a better option.
New boaters appreciate bowriders because they're relatively inexpensive, easy to handle, and a great way to learn the ins and outs of the hobby. Depending on the model, they can still reach speeds above 50 mph – so don't worry, they're perfect for all your watersports, too.
5. Deck Boat
The differences between these boats for beginners (bowrider and deck boats) come down to a few factors. Basically, deck boats focus on being roomy and flexible, often giving up some performance for a bigger, more open layout that's great for families and parties.
Conversely, Bowriders focus on performance and handling with a more traditional pointed bow design. They offer a sportier ride but usually have less deck space.
So, if you're looking for more of a vessel to bring the whole family on for a day of sunbathing, a deck boat may be a better option. They're known for their hulls that allow them to ride on top of the water – not through it. (A bit more of a stable ride, as you can imagine.)
6. Fish-and-Ski Boat
Let's say you love watersports and are looking at dedicated ski or wake boats. That may be the best move for you. On the other hand, if you have yet to experience other waterborne activities like fishing and think that may be interesting down the line, a fish-and-ski might be a better choice.
Fish-and-ski boats are known to combine the best features of fishing boats and bowriders – into one vessel. Essentially, they're more of a medium-size build (about 15-22 feet long) that is also trailerable. And even better than that? The options for all the activities on a fish-and-ski are endless. Go fishing, tow watersports lovers, go cruising – you'll never run out of things to do onboard.
Learn More About Fish-And-Ski Boats
Next Steps: Select Your Boat!
The bottom line? As someone new to boating, there's a good chance you're about to be exposed to a world of possibilities you never knew existed. The best boats for beginners will allow that to happen quickly, easily, and economically.
Before you know it, you won't be a beginner boater anymore, and when you decide to upgrade, you'll have a better idea of which size and type of boat is perfect for your needs and desires.
Finally, as you search for the best boat for beginners, search our website for "beginners" tips because we have a slew of information available on all sorts of boating subjects, from beginner wakeboarding to beginner sailing tips.
