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Motor Boat Types Explained: How to Find the Right One for You

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Do you dream of owning a motorboat? Motorboats are great for fishing, water sports, adventure, and fun. They are also referred to as speedboats and powerboats and come in different shapes and sizes. There are different types of motorboats today. This article has all the different motor boat types explained as well as their advantages and disadvantages. Read on to find your dream motorboat. 

Types of Motor Boats

Bowrider motor boats.

Bowriders are a perfect choice for beginners and those with family. The open bow area makes room for extra seats in the helm and can hold more than 8 passengers. The boat is about 17-30 inches in length. The V-shaped hull offers smooth rides, whether on inland waters or coastal waters.

The boat can be powered by outboard engines or stern drive and can be used for water sports or fishing.

• Bowriders can be used for water sports, entertaining, fishing, and entertainment.
• It can fit up to 9 passengers.
• It can be powered by a sterndrive, jet propulsion, inboard, or outboard engines.
• The motorboat looks crammed with maximum passengers on board.

Cabin Cruisers

Powerboats that have sleeping accommodations onboard are referred to as cabin cruisers. They are ideal for relaxed cruises as they include modern comforts like air conditioners, heaters, and power generators.

These cruiser boats have a deep V-bottom, shaft drive mechanism, and rudder steering. The cruiser is mainly used on salty, coastal waters and can be propelled with pod drive, sterndrive, outboard, and inboard motors.

• The motorboat is great for day and night cruising.
• It has a seating capacity of 10 people.
• The cruiser offers luxury and accommodation.
• They are expensive to buy and maintain.

Center Console Powerboats

The center console gets its name from the fact that the helm is fitted in the console found at the boat’s center. It lacks a foredeck and cabin. The motor boat’s design makes it possible for anglers to walk from the bow to the stern without stepping on the gunwales. This 13-45’’ boat uses outboard motors to cruise. 

Center consoles are great for sports fishing. They work perfectly in harsh offshore waterways where there are plenty of schools of fish. The deck in center consoles has powerful insulation to ice the fish storage. Also, the boat can hold fish lockers, outriggers, gunwale rod holders, and bait wells.

• Center consoles can be used for fresh and saltwater fishing, cruising, and water sports.
• They have better access to water.
• They are easy to maintain.
• It lacks protection from the elements.

Convertible Motor Boats

Convertible motor boats are great for fishing and weekend cruising. This large-sized boat has a large cabin, a flybridge for running the boat, an entertaining area for passengers, and an advantage point for spotting fish grounds.

• They have large cabins.
• The height of the flybridge elevates the captain to spot fish-grounds easily.
• They are ideal for offshore fishing.
• They are easily accessible, like express fishing boats.

Deck boats are 25-35 ft. long and are mainly made of fiberglass or aluminum. They have better performance and space compared to pontoon boats since they have a V-shaped hull. The open deck available on the boat provides plenty of seating space for passengers. They, however, have no space for accommodation below the deck.

Deck boats are either powered by stern drive, jet drive, or outboard engines. The boat is mainly used for recreation activities such as water sports and swimming.

• They are perfect for families and parties.
• They have more capabilities and amenities than bowriders.
• They can hold up to 14 people.
• They are not fast.
• They are less spacious compared to pontoons.

Bowrider Boats

This boat is also called a quintessential family boat. They have spacious rooms for more than eight passengers on the cockpit, helm, and bow cockpit. These boats also offer comfort and leisure through the swim platform.

Bowriders have a V-shaped bottom that can cruise through different weather conditions. Although the bowrider offers splendid rides using the sterndrive power, the demand to use outboard engines is on demand. 

• They are versatile and can be used for fishing, watersports, and entertaining.
• Bowriders are affordable.
• Passengers can sit in the front and back.
• They are easy to drive.
• It is not great for overnight cruising.
• It has narrow and cramped seating at the front.

Dinghy Boats

Dinghy boats can be hard-sided or inflatable. Although oars and sails powered them in the past, dinghy boars are now powered by small outboard motors.

They are often used for transporting passengers and their personal effects to and from shore when a mothership cannot get onshore. The motorboats are also used for camping expeditions and fishing.

• Inflatable dinghy boats are easy to store.
• They are extremely lightweight.
• They are stable and durable.
• Soft inflatable dinghy boats can flip you in water on impact.

Express Cruiser Boats

Express boats have large cockpits where guests get entertained both indoors and outdoors. The helm is slightly elevated and tucked up by the boat’s windscreen. Besides, these 30-50-foot-long cruisers have more outdoor space and multiple cabins.

In terms of cruising, these motorboats can achieve speeds of 25-30 knots. They can be powered by pod drives, stern drives, or twin engines.

• Express cruiser boats are great for sightseeing.
• They have more outdoor space.
• They have fast speeds.
• They consume a lot of fuel.
• They are pricey.

High-Performance Motor Boats

As the name suggests, these motorboats are designed for speed and performance. Their high power to weight ratio, steep deadrise, and narrow beam help the boat perform on the water. High-performance boats are also referred to as go-fast boats and muscle boats.

These go-fast motorboats are powered by stern drives, high horsepower outboards, or surface drives. With 25-60 ft. length, these boats are light, strong, fast, and ideal for fast cruising. 

• They can hold up to 6 passengers in the cockpit.
• They are built for racing.
• They are expensive

Personal Watercraft Boat

Personal watercraft are designed for fun, pleasure, and adventure. These boats are also referred to as jet skis and water scooters. With them, one can explore the waters or engage in water sports. Personal watercraft are either sit-downs or stand-ups. Sit-down s can hold two or more passengers, while stand-ups can only hold one rider. 

• They are smaller and easier to maneuver
• They are perfect for water sports and adventure.
• Servicing them is easy, and they are more stable on the water.
• You need safety gear when riding a personal watercraft powerboat.

Houseboats are also known as floating houses as they have dining areas, bedrooms, and kitchens. These boats are ideal for families, entertaining, recreation, cruising, or enjoying water sports. They come in different shapes and sizes and mostly measure 25 ft. in length to 150 ft. 

Houseboats have broad flooring and modern amenities to offer luxury. These boats are motorized and are incapable of working on their power.

• Houseboats can also be used as living houses.
• You have vacation activities throughout the year. 
• Fishing takes place anytime.
• If you live on a houseboat, you have to join the homeowner’s association. 

Inflatable Boats

These boats have inflatable tubes on the sides for fast and easy inflation and deflation. They also have flexible or rigid floors, depending on their size. Measuring 6-14’’, inflatable boats are ideal for beginners.

The common motors used in inflatables are outboard motors as they can be mounted on the rigid transom.

• They are lightweight when deflated, making them easy to transport.
• They are good for beginners.
• They are not as stable as other powerboats. 

These are run by single or several jet drives. They are mostly used in shallow waters and water sports because of their small size. Jet boats are highly maneuverable too.

• It has quick turning capability and acceleration.
• They can achieve top speeds.
• They lack an exterior propeller.

Pilothouse Boats

Designed to ride rougher seas, the pilothouse boats are fully enclosed to keep the helmsman dry. They are great for cruising and fishing. These boats have a berth and head and are 20-35 ft. in length. 

The pilothouse boats can be powered by inboards, outboards, and stern drives.

• The helmsman stays high and dry even in rough sea conditions.
• It has reduced wind and engine noise.
• Mounting accessories on a pilothouse motorboat is easy. 
• It can be hot and stuffy if the boat does not have an air-conditioner. 

Pontoon Boats

Mainly used in small water bodies, rivers, and inland lakes, pontoon boats are ideal for water sports, fishing, and cruising. They are available in 15-30 ft. length, have shallow drafts, and are highly stable. They also support a broad platform with the multiple aluminum pontoons fitted. These boats have flat decks and a fence for tour groups.

Sterndrives or outboard motors often power pontoon boats.

• They are comfortable and have great speeds. 
• They can be used for fishing and water sports. 
• They offer safety.
• They are not ideal for rough waters.

Power Catamaran

Power catamarans are dual hull boats that offshore fishers mainly use. Not only are they rugged, but they also offer stable rides. Furthermore, they can achieve fast speeds and consume less fuel compared to mono-hulls. They also have higher displacement, less hull volume, and shallow drafts.

Power catamaran boats have lengths of 25-40 ft. They are excellent for leisure and fishing. These boats use sails and engines, making them a crossover powerboat.

• They have more space than monohulls.
• They are more stable on waves.
• Dual hulls are faster than monohulls.
• They are more expensive than yachts.

Cuddy Cabins

Cuddy cabin is a family-friendly powerboat. It can be used for sailing, fishing, leisure, and yachting. With a closed deck on the boat’s bow, the cuddy cabin is easy to navigate and has ample storage space. In terms of materials used, these boats are usually made of aluminum and fiberglass with a length of not less than 475 meters. 

• They provide a dynamic cruising experience.
• They are trailer-able and can cruise different waters.
• They have sleeping space for day naps and nights.
• Bow access is limited.

Runabout Motor Boats

Small motorboats between 14-24 ft. in length are known as runabouts. They can be used for water sports, cruising, or fishing; runabouts can be powered by a sterndrive engine or an outboard motor. The open boat has a steering wheel behind a windscreen as well as forward controls.

Runabout motorboats can accommodate up to eight people.

• They are inexpensive.
• They are low-maintenance.
• Runabout speedboats are versatile.
• They have limited fuel capacity, thus limiting the travel range.

Utility Boats

Designed for tough use, utility boats are mainly powered by outboard motors. They are generally made of aluminum or fiberglass and are 12-20 ft. The boats can either be used as workboats or fishing vessels. 

• They are ideal for novice boaters
• They are inexpensive to maintain.
• Aluminum utility boats are noisy at high speeds.

Walkarounds

These boats have side decks to provide room for anglers to move up the foredeck and around the cabin. Found in large water bodies, walkarounds measure 20-30 ft. in length. Walkarounds can use inboard engines, outboard motors, or both. 

• There is plenty of room to walk around.
• They are fuel-efficient.
• They are heavy to trail around.

Yachts between 100-200 ft. long are known as superyachts. These motorboats have multiple decks, accommodations, a galley, lounges, and a living room. These boats are mainly used to host and entertain guests.

• It can cruise deep waters.
• They have recreational recreation.
• They are costly to maintain.

Any yacht with over 200 ft. length and up to 500 ft. height is referred to as a mega yacht. Most are custom-made and owned by the wealthy class. They feature state-of-art luxuries like a helipad, large swimming pools, plenty of guest rooms, and a crew of not less than 25 people. Ideally, they can be referred to as luxurious floating resorts.

• They offer affordable recreation and quality time for passengers.
• They can cruise in deep waters.
• Mega Yachts are only usable in warm seasons.

Bass boats measure 14-23 inches and are mainly used for freshwater fishing in rivers and inland lakes. Their design features a V-hull, flat deck, shallow draft, and low freeboard. They are fitted with special gear, trolling motors, and high horsepower outboards.

• They make good fishing vessels since the trolling motor operates quietly.
• They offer the freedom to fish in different waters.
• They have great casting platforms.
• They are slow.
• They have limited seating.

Although they have a low profile, bay boats are great for shallow waters near the shore or coastal waters. Their length measures 18-24 inches. They are made of fiberglass, which makes them durable when used in brackish and saltwater. Compared with flatboats, bay boats have more free boards.

• The low-slung gunwales make it easy to swing fish into the boat.
• They are great for fishing in very shallow waters.
• They come with basic fishing features.
• They can only hold three people.

Sedan Bridge

A sedan bridge is typically 35-65 feet long and offers the captain or navigator excellent visibility. What’s more, the cockpit level in a Sedan bridge is close to that of the boat’s aft deck. For this reason, this powerboat does not need a ladder or stairs. Access to the cockpit is relatively easy on the Sedan Bridge. 

• It has plenty of room in the salon.
• They are easier to operate, clean, and wax.
• Not perfect for rough waters. 

Other types of powerboats include;

With a pointed bow and flat bottom, skiffs are perfect for navigating shallow waters. They come in different lengths and sizes. It is easy to operate a skiff using a basic steering console.

Game boats are useful in game fish pursuits such as tuna and marlin and use diesel or petrol engines. These boats are large in size and made of fiberglass. They are also equipped with cooking galleys, plumbing systems, and sleeping berths.

Motor Yacht Boats

These are primarily leisure boats. The standard length of one is 12m and above and can hold 1-2 diesel engines. They are great for both short and long family trips.

Wakeboards/ Ski Boats

Although they look alike, wakeboards and ski boats have variations in terms of actions. Inboard ski boats need powerful acceleration. The shape of the propeller and engine also brings out noticeable differences. 

On the other hand, inboard wakeboards have a V-drive engine system, huge wake, and deep hulls to get the boat in motion.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Motor Boat

With over 30 motorboats to choose from, how can you find the perfect type for you? Below are factors you need to keep in mind before making the decision.

New or Preowned Motor Boat?

This should be one of the factors to consider when thinking about buying a boat. New boats are the best choice if you have saved for the purchase or money is not a problem. One advantage of buying a new boat is they have a warranty, so the repairs are covered in case of a malfunction. 

What if you do not have enough money to get a new motorboat? Get a pre-owned one.  However, ensure that it is thoroughly checked by a motorboat professional. 

Reason and Frequency of Using the Motor Boat

When choosing a motorboat, understand the reason why you need the boat. Is it for fishing? Will it be one of your entertainment assets? Or will it serve as a sailing boat or for family trips? Once you discern why you need the boat, you will make the right choice when choosing the motorboat. 

After knowing what the boat will be used for, determine how often you will need it. Why? If the boat is for fishing, you need to understand how long the fishing seasons in your area last. What if the boat is for family trips? You need to tell when the weather is great for outdoor sports and when schools take a break so you can take the kids for a vacation. 

Motorboats depreciate fast in the first year of purchase. If you discover that you will only take the boat on the water once every few months, the best decision is to wait. By doing so, you will save yourself the agony of depreciation and maintenance fees. 

Thinking about the reason and frequency of using the boat beforehand will help you maximize your investment.

Motor Boat Use

If you are getting confused looking at different motorboats, here are a few questions to reflect on and help you make the decision.

• Are you looking to impress guests and business associates?
• Do you want a motorboat that fits on a trailer?
• Are you looking for a boat that can hold your family?
• Is the boat for water sports?
• Do you have experience in motorboating?
• Are you looking for a multi-purpose boat?
• Do you need help operating the powerboat?
• How much boat loan payment can you afford monthly?

Finding answers to the above questions will help you minimize your options.

Your Location

Before buying a speedboat, consider whether you have access to a water body. If you do have access to a body of water, confirm whether the waterways are appropriate with the use and type of boat you want. For example, if you buy a motorboat for fishing and live close to a lake, check whether fishing is allowed on the lake.

The location also plays an important role in terms of storage. Are there slip options and marinas in your area? Are boats allowed on the streets by the homeowner’s association? Considering these options before purchase will help you find the best storage options when you buy the motorboat.

Type of Motor Boat

As previously stated, there are plenty of types of motorboats. Nevertheless, they all will not match your user needs. For starters, consider the size of the boat. How many people are you planning to have onboard?

Do you need space for fishing gear? Does your boat require sleeping accommodations? These factors will determine the size of the powerboat you need.

Besides, take into consideration the condition of the motorboat. For pre-owned motorboats, consider whether they will meet both your short and long-term goals. Moreover, calculate how much you will spend on maintenance as old boats need more repairs.

Type of Hull

There are three main types of powerboat hulls; displacement hulls, planing hulls, and semi-displacement hulls.

Displacement hulls are found in heavy vessels such as tugs and trawlers. They are fuel-efficient and can navigate through rough seas. Unfortunately, they are not fast, making them ideal for long distances.

Planing hulls, on the other hand, skim over the water at high speeds. Made of lightweight materials, planing hulls are powered by powerful engines. They, however, have high costs of maintenance and fuel consumption.

Semi-displacement hulls offer both speed and functionality. Although they are not as fast as planing hulls, they achieve reasonable speeds and cruise through rugged seas. Many boat builders and designers prefer semi-displacement motorboats.

Storage also plays a role when choosing the type of speedboat. Some motorboats can fit on trailers and others in a storage unit area. Keep in mind that the bigger the boat, the larger the storage space, trailer, and towing truck. Huge boats may force you to get permits and hire professionals when moving.

Also, pay attention to storage costs during winter or when you are not using the motorboat. 

How much will the motorboat cost you? By cost, consider the upfront cost of buying the boat, maintenance, storage fees, gear, fuel, accessories, trailers, and hitches. Besides, you need to set money aside for boat insurance.

Boat insurance covers physical damage on the motorboat, loss, and damage of personal effects on the boat and injuries in the event of a boating collision. Talk to your insurer before purchase to get a quote on expected insurance costs. 

On the other hand, if you are not looking to pay upfront, you can look into historic lows. Today, there are plenty of marine lenders who can finance your boat loan for 10 to 20 years. Before choosing a marine lender, determine carefully whether your cash flow can sustain that long-term loan.

Legal System

Different states have different regulations. For example, some states require boat operators to own an operator’s card to prove their competence. Therefore, check what the laws require of you as a boat owner before the purchase.

The same applies to buying a pre-owned motor; ensure the seller transfers the motor boat’s ownership under your name. What if the seller cannot find proof of ownership? Ensure you get a declaration under oath from them about why they do not have proof of ownership.

You must have browsed through different boat brands when looking for a motorboat. Good thing, most motorboat brands have boat owners clubs where you can get crucial information about boats. Here, you can ask questions and tips about the brand before the purchase.

Besides, it is much cheaper to make an online purchase. However, if you have not made the final decision yet, attend a boat show to view and access the different models and brands available. Talk to experts and ask their opinions based on your intent on the motorboat.

You must ensure that a motorboat is seaworthy, especially pre-owned boats. Walk around the boat and access the vessel. Next, take the motorboat for a sea trial and gauge whether there are any problems.

If you are inexperienced in boating, a shiny, clean motorboat may blind you. Therefore, hire a professional marine surveyor as you may miss some important issues. Once you are done with the sea trial, haul the motorboat out of water for the surveyor to inspect the parts under the waterline. Inspecting the powerboat before the purchase will save you from making a wrong financial investment.

Whether buying a new or used boat, find out what else is included in the purchase. Have the seller provide you with a list of equipment included in the sale. You can then choose to take the whole package or shop the amenities on your own.

Question: Can I purchase a boat without qualifications?

Answer: Yes. Owning a private motorboat does not necessarily mean you need qualifications. However, there are advantages to having one.

Question: Which are the best motor boats for beginners?

Answer: Dinghies, bowriders, and pontoon boats are some of the best motor boats for beginners. They have simple propulsion systems and are more flexible.

Question: Should I buy a new or pre-owned motorboat?

Answer: Buying a new motorboat is the wisest decision because you get exactly what you are looking for. Sadly, new motorboats are expensive compared to pre-owned boats. Buying a used boat will save you money, and if not inspected thoroughly, you may find yourself with a lemon.

Question: What do I need to know about motorboat coverage?

Answer: Some small motorboats are covered on a homeowner’s policy, while large motorboats require a separate insurance policy. Also, boat insurance offers limited coverage on your personal effects.

Since there are numerous types of motorboats in the market, you find the ideal choice for you. Pick that motorboat that fits your needs, family, speed, and budget. 

Personal watercraft are perfect for 1-2 riders, while cuddy cabins are family-friendly. In terms of entertaining guests, express cruiser boats, superyachts, and Megayachts are the real deal.

Take your time going through the different types of powerboats, ask expert opinions, and make an informed investment for your money. 

You have made the choice to become a boat owner soon. Congratulations! But among the many possibilities, do you know which boat to choose? In this article, the Band of Boats team has tried to draw up a list of the types of boats that can be purchased, so that you can choose the right one, that suits your needs.

1 – What are the main types of boats? 1.1 – Different types of motorboats 1.2 – Different types of sailboats 2 – How to choose the right type of boat?

1. What are the main types of boats?

Before you consider buying a boat, you should consider your future sailing programme. Not all types of boats are suitable for the same purpose. Let’s take a look at the many different types of boats to help you make your choice.

Among the very long list of boat types that exist, we can distinguish several large families. We can already distinguish between between monohulls and multihulls , called catamarans when they have two hulls, or trimarans when they have three.

Boats are also distinguished according to their means of propulsion:

• Motorboats , with inboard or outboard power, made up of one or more motors, electric or not.
• Jet boats or underwater thrusters , which use water projection to move forward.
• Sailboats, or sailing ships, which move with the wind and may have different numbers of masts.
• Boats propelled by human energy , notably through the use of oars.

Different types of motorboats

The list of different types of motorboats is very long. When it comes to buying a boat, the regular arrival of new units on the market makes the search even more complex. To help you choose a boat, we will try to introduce you to the main types of motorboats.

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Small fishing boat

These are motor-driven or small boats , perfect for solo or small group fishing trips . Lightweight and small in size, most rowboats are equipped with an outboard motor, which makes them fast and manoeuvrable. They are also fairly simple to operate and can be easily transported on a trailer, making them very practical for day trips. Rowboats are generally cheaper than other types of boats and are ideal for beginners or occasional anglers. However, their small size can make fishing a little more difficult in rough seas, and their storage capacity is limited. In addition, it is important to ensure that the engine is powerful enough to cope with the expected fishing conditions.

RIB (Rigid and Inflatable Boat)

The semi-rigid or inflatable boat (RIBs) is the lightest and easiest to move. While the RIB has a hard hull that can be made of different materials such as Hypalon-neoprene or PVC, the inflatable boat has an inflatable or slatted floor and can be fully deflated. This means that it can be stored in a small space in a storage bag. This makes this type of boat a very popular tender. With a hull length of up to 6 metres, the inflatable or RIB boat is versatile and has great stability. It is a shallow-draft boat often used as a dinghy – to link a larger unit to land, for fishing, or for coastal sailing.

It is a multi-purpose boat with an open hull, usually less than 6 metres long. There are three types of open boats , most often with outboard engines:

• The center console , with, as its name suggests, the helm in the centre (centre console) and sometimes a cabin.
• The walkaround , with an open central cockpit and often a small sleeping cabin.
• The bowrider , with an open bow to allow access to the foredeck and a double console or an off-centre console.

All have a V-shaped hull, and are very fast. They are affordable, ideal for daytime coastal sailing, fishing and water sports.

Day boats or day cruisers are small vessels, usually less than 6.5 metres long, with a small cabin. As the name suggests, the purpose is to spend a day or a weekend at sea . Its cockpit allows you to enjoy the sun. In terms of habitability, the day-boat cabin is sometimes equipped with a bunk and a small kitchenette, making it possible to spend a short stay on board.

Pontoon boat

It is the ideal boat model for water sports activities! The pontoon boat , or bass-boat, is in fact a floating platform with a shallow draught, designed above all for fun, with family or friends, on inland waters or in coastal areas, when the sea is calm.

Easily recognisable, the runabout is a type of fast, sporty boat with a low, slender hull, usually powered by a petrol engine. It is designed for water-based recreation , such as water skiing or fast cruising on inland waterways or the sea. The Runabout is generally easy to manoeuvre and maintain, but can have high fuel consumption and can be noisy due to its motorisation.

Offshore speedboat

It is a very fast unit with a slender hull that can reach speeds of up to 50 knots thanks to a very powerful engine. The V-shaped hull of the offshore speedboat makes it possible to in calm or rough waters, while experiencing great sensations . On the other hand, it is a boat with less than optimal habitability and requires high maintenance costs.

It is a boat that is propelled by a jet of water, and its speed makes it particularly suitable for water sports. It is generally very manoeuvrable, easy to maintain, and can be used in very shallow areas. The weak points of the jet boat are, without doubt, a noisy engine and high fuel consumption.

Cabin boat or cabin-cruiser

As the name suggests, the cabin boats has a habitable cabin. Its hull is between 6.5 and 14 metres long and it is equipped with an inboard or outboard motor, with one or more engines. It is used for pleasure sailing , to sail for a day or more in a comfortable manner, mainly in coastal areas. There are also cuddy cabin boats , which are vessels with a hull length of less than 10 metres, with a very small cabin or landing in the forward area below deck. They are the ideal motorboat for water sports and day cruising.

Pilothouse boat

A typical fishing boat is a boat with a sheltered cockpit in what is called a wheelhouse. The vessel usually has sleeping accommodation, a kitchenette and sometimes even a small toilet. The pilothouse boat or pleasure fishing boat also has a large, airy cockpit without benches, allowing for day fishing. With an inboard or outboard motor, it is mainly used to navigate in coastal areas, although its great stability allows it to pass through rougher seas.

It is a versatile vessel, ranging in length from 8 to 20 metres. The trawler is a comfortable unit, suitable for long voyages at reduced speed . Life on board is easy, thanks to the large interior spaces and the large water and fuel storage capacities. The trawler is generally used for coastal sailing, either for a day or for several days.

Cruisers / Express cruisers boats

With a hull length generally between 8 and 15 metres, the cruiser is a light and comfortable, versatile and often fast boat, which always has an enclosed cabin. There are different types of cruiser boats:

• The open express cuiser , with a closed front deck and an open rear cockpit
• The flybridge boat , with an upper deck with a steering console and sometimes an interior steering position.
• The hard-top yacht , with a hardtop that can be opened.
• The cruiser, or liveaboard boat , designed more to allow life on board.
• The speedboat , for sea outings that mix sport and cruising.

All have a V-shaped hull and an inboard engine. The type of speedboat chosen depends on the sailing project. There are also dutch barge , which, as the name suggests, are designed to sail on canals and rivers. They are very popular in countries like the Netherlands.

Highly regarded as the ultimate high-end vessel, the yacht is a pleasure craft distinguished by its luxury and elegance. They are large stars. They can be up to 100 metres long. Yachts are often used for luxury cruises, sea voyages or special events. The price of a yacht is often very high. It can range from 500,000 euros for second-hand yachts to tens of millions of euros for the largest yachts in the world.

Houseboat barge

It is a river boat often used as a floating residence or as a pleasure boat for sailing on canals and rivers. It is a large and long type of boat, which allows for ample living space and comfortable facilities. They can offer a variety of interior layouts, with spacious living areas, bedrooms, a fitted kitchen and a full bathroom. Choosing to live on a houseboat can have several advantages such as peaceful living on the water, easy access to nature and a more affordable cost of living than in big cities. However, houseboats also require regular maintenance and special attention to safety due to the conditions of living on the water. The price of a houseboat varies according to age, size, location and general condition, but can generally be lower than a house in the city.

Fishing trawler

Initially dedicated to fishing, then redesigned to adapt to pleasure sailing, the fishing trawler is now a vessel adapted to long term cruising. The interior spaces are spacious and particularly well suited to life on board: there is generally a real kitchen, a real bathroom, common areas and well-separated sleeping areas. When sailing on a trawler, one benefits from great stability, reasonable draught and air draft. However, trawlers move more slowly than other lighter vessels, consume more fuel and often require more maintenance.

A barge is a flat-bottomed vessel, usually non-motorised and used for commercial or utility purposes , often for transporting goods.. A distinction is made between the splitting barge, which opens to unload what is contained in its central tank, and the myticole barge, which has a large storage capacity on its deck and can navigate in very little water. Barges are commercial vessels that can be used both at sea and on inland waters.

Power catamarans and trimarans

The power catamaran is a multihull motorboat with two separate hulls, connected by an upper deck. Like the catamaran, the motor trimaran is a multihull boat, this time with three separate hulls. On both types of power multihulls, the lower deck is usually dedicated to private spaces – sleeping and toilet facilities, while the upper deck usually contains the living spaces – saloons and cockpits. Motor multihulls are generally characterised by high stability at sea, and benefit from a shallow draft.

Different types of sailboats

When you want to buy a sailing boat , you will soon realise that there are many different types. Band of boats looks at the different types of sailboats and the sailing programmes that can be associated with them.

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Monohull sailboat

Sailboat types are distinguished primarily by their rigging: they do not all have the same number of masts and do not all carry the same sails. The main types of rig are as follows:

• Sloop : a sailboat with only one mast, carrying a mainsail and a headsail.
• Cutter : also has only one mast, but located further aft. It can therefore carry two headsails – the jib and the staysail – in addition to the mainsail
• Le catboat : a sailboat with a mast set far forward, without shrouds or stays, and which carries only one mainsail
• Ketch :a sailing boat with two masts – the foremast, or mainmast, and the bowsprit, inside the waterline.
• Yawl : another two-masted sailing vessel, but with the aft mast lower than on a ketch and outside the waterline.
• Schooner : still with two masts, but this time with a larger foremast at the stern.

A distinction is also made between the various monohull sailboats according to their ballast: a sailboat can be a full or ballasted dinghy, a keelboat, a lifting keel or a sabre keel. There are also twin keel yachts, those with a fin keel or those with a canting keel.

Here are some of the types of sailboats you can find on the market:

With a hull length of up to 10 metres, the day-sailer is a boat on which on-board comfort is reduced to the bare minimum. It is mainly used for day sailing. It is possible to envisage longer sailing trips, with a reduced crew, without much privacy.

Liveaboard sailboat

From 8 to 18 metres in length, the live-aboard yacht, also known as a cruiser, is equipped to accommodate a crew for up to several weeks. The water and fuel storage capacities on board are generally substantial. The facilities on board depend on the size of the vessel and, depending on the design category of the boat, it is possible to sail in coastal, semi-offshore or offshore areas.

Cruising sailboat

It is a heavier yacht, designed in a more resistant material, and therefore with a more robust hull. Designed for long voyages, the blue water cruiser is a safe boat, with a living space designed for life on board. The equipment on a blue water yacht generally includes a set of sails for sailing in all weathers, one or more solutions for producing energy on board, and sometimes a windvane gear.

Sailing yacht

Among all monohull sailing boats, from a hull length of 10 metres, we can speak of a “sailing yacht”. A sailing yacht is a boat with a particularly comfortable living space, offering a real living area with several berths, separate cabins, a large bathroom and a kitchen area on board.

Classic sailing yacht

Most often built of wood, the classic sailboat is a piece of maritime heritage, usually unique, associated with the history of regatta sailing, the history of ocean racing or the early days of pleasure sailing. Classic yachts are often very elegant on the water, particularly admired, thanks to their narrow, elongated hulls and large overlapping sails.

Belle Plaisance boat

The Belle Plaisance boat is more affordable than a classic sailboat, and is sometimes made in a few copies, whereas the classic sailboat is unique. The hull is also long and narrow and is often made of a less noble material than the classic sailboat, usually plastic. As with classic yachts, the headsails of Belle Plaisance yachts have a large overlap.

Catamarans are sailing boats with two hulls. They are very popular with sailors, especially for ocean cruising. Even though they are often used for a few days at sea or for long crossings, there are also small sport catamarans without a cabin. With their two hulls, these offer impressive stability, as well as a spacious and comfortable living space for the passengers. They can reach higher speeds than monohulls and are less prone to extreme heights. However, they tend to ride upwind less well, which can limit their manoeuvrability in certain conditions. The costs of purchasing a catamaran are generally higher than for monohulls, and the costs of maintenance and docking in ports are also higher.

Trimarans are three-hulled sailing boats. They therefore offer even greater stability than catamarans. They are often used for yacht races because of their exceptional speed, but are also used for cruising. Indeed, there are small sport trimarans as well as large travel trimarans. Like catamarans, they offer spacious living space for passengers, with greater privacy in the private areas. Trimarans are also less prone to extreme heights than monohulls, making them a popular choice for sailors seeking increased stability. However, as with catamarans, the costs of buying a trimaran are generally higher than for monohulls, and the costs of maintenance and docking in ports are also greater.

2. How to choose the right type of boat?

Before choosing your dream boat , and to make sure you make the right choice, we recommend that you ask yourself several important questions

• What is your intended sailing schedule?
• What type of propulsion system do you want to use?
• Who will be sailing with you?
• When and how often do you want to enjoy your new boat?
• In which sailing areas do you want to use it?
• Do you already have a mooring solution for your vessel, such as a harbour or mooring facility?
• How much money can you afford to spend on this boat purchase, taking into account possible future maintenance costs?

Once you have answered these questions, it will be easier to choose a boat that is right for you, whether new or used !

And if you’re more interested in sailing boats, take a look at our guide to choosing the right sailboat .

What type of boat should I choose to start with?

If you want to start sailing a motorboat or sailboat, you will need to buy a boat that matches your skills. In addition to buying a boat that matches your desires, we recommend that you choose a boat that is easy to handle, in good working order, and at a price that is not too high.

We advise you to choose a motorboat or sailing boat that is less than 10 metres long, to ensure that you can handle it well. A boat that is easy to handle and reacts quickly will allow you to get the maximum feeling and to learn how to perform the main manoeuvres correctly. If you make a mistake, a boat that is not too heavy will forgive most mistakes! We can therefore recommend small dayboats, open boats, RIBs or sailing boats such as dinghies or small daysailers.

What type of boat should I choose to live aboard?

If you are considering buying a boat to live aboard, you will need to choose a houseboat that you will feel comfortable on. Think about the life you want to lead on board:

Do you plan to live only on board, in a sedentary way, and stay at the dock or at anchor? If so, what items and equipment do you not want to do without? What budget are you prepared to allocate to a berth or anchorage?

Or would you prefer to buy a liveaboard yacht to live and travel on? Do you plan to cross the Mediterranean, the Atlantic or the Pacific? Would you like to go on a round-the-world trip? If so, you will probably need to choose a cruising boat or sailboat that will allow you to fulfil your wish.

Finally, the choice of boat you make will also depend on the number of people on board. Do you want to buy a boat to live on alone, as a couple or with your family?

A boat to live alone

If you plan to live alone on a boat, a small boat or sailboat with only one berth should be sufficient. Lack of privacy should not be a problem! It’s up to you to determine the conditions under which you plan to live on board: for example, do you want a fridge, a toilet or a shower, or can you do without?

A boat for family life

If you are a couple or a family, your needs will probably be different. You will need to consider more berths, separate living areas, but also more storage possibilities. A sailing yacht, a catamaran, a trimaran or a trawler will allow everyone to have their own space, and to be equipped like at home.

Which boat to choose for inland navigation?

If you are planning to sail on canals, rivers and streams, you need to choose a boat that is suitable for inland navigation. But you may be wondering what is best. The narrowness of some canals, the sometimes narrow locks or the height of the bridges in the area you wish to visit may help you make your choice.

We recommend that you opt for a manoeuvrable boat with a maximum width of 2.50 metres, a maximum draught of 1.20 metres and a maximum air draught of 3 metres. If you choose a boat less than 20 metres in length, you will be able to navigate in river areas with a boating licence, and will have access to port sites without any particular worries. Finally, if you want to be able to change navigation area easily, choose a boat with a size adapted to road transport. For example, barges, Dutch launches, trawlers, launches and small transportable sailing boats are good boats for inland navigation.

Interested in owning a river boat?

Check out our listings of river boats for sale

We hope that this article about the different types of boats will help you to choose the right boat for you. From now on, feel free to discover all our boat for sale ads and choose the boat of your dreams!

Boat Pursuits

What is a motorboat (a comprehensive guide).

Do you want to explore the open waters and experience a thrilling ride? Motorboats provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy an adventurous outing on the water.

But what is a motorboat? From the different types of motorboats available to motorboat safety tips and accessories, this comprehensive guide is here to provide all the information you need to know.

We will cover motorboat maintenance and repair, fuel usage, speed and capabilities, and motorboat regulations.

So, if you’re looking to get out on the water, read on to become a motorboat expert!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

A motorboat is a boat that is powered by an engine.

It is usually used for recreational activities such as fishing, water skiing, and cruising.

Motorboats can range in size from small, inflatable craft to large, luxurious yachts.

Motorboats offer a fun and convenient way to get out on the water and explore.

Types of Motorboats

When considering which type of motorboat is right for you, there are several different types to choose from.

Small outboard motorboats, such as Jon boats and dinghies, are great for fishing, duck hunting, and cruising around a lake or pond.

These boats are usually propelled by a single outboard motor that is mounted on the stern or transom of the boat.

Outboard motorboats are relatively easy to operate and maintain, making them popular for recreational activities.

For those who want a bit more speed and power, larger motorboats may be the way to go.

These boats can come with multiple outboard motors, inboard engines, or even jet drives.

Larger motorboats are ideal for water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing, as they provide plenty of power and speed.

These boats are also great for entertaining, as they often have spacious decks and seating areas for friends and family.

For those looking for a luxurious experience on the water, luxury cruisers are the perfect choice.

These boats come with amenities such as air conditioning, an onboard generator, and multiple staterooms.

Luxury cruisers can be powered by either an inboard or outboard motor, and are great for extended trips and cruising around a larger body of water.

No matter which type of motorboat you choose, youll be sure to have an enjoyable time on the water.

With the right motorboat, youll be able to explore new waters, create unforgettable memories, and get the most out of your boating experience.

Motorboat Safety Tips

When it comes to motorboating, safety should always be the top priority. Whether youre a novice or an experienced boater, its important to take the time to review safety tips before heading out on the water. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind before embarking on your next motorboat journey:

Always wear a life jacket.

A personal flotation device (PFD) is essential for everyone on board a motorboat.

Make sure to have the right size and fit for each person on your boat.

Make sure the boat is properly registered.

All motorboats must be registered with the state or country in which it is operated.

This ensures that you are compliant with all local laws and regulations.

Get familiar with the area and check the weather.

Before heading out, its important to familiarize yourself with the area and check the weather forecast.

This will help you plan accordingly and avoid any surprises.

Dont overload the boat.

Make sure to check the weight capacity of the boat and adhere to it.

Overloading can put strain on the motor and increase the risk of capsizing.

Stay sober.

Alcohol and boating do not mix.

Boating while impaired can lead to serious accidents and injuries, so its important to stay sober when operating a motorboat.

Have a plan.

Before heading out, its important to have a plan for the journey.

This should include a route, expected time of arrival, and a list of emergency contacts.

Make sure all gear is in working order.

Before heading out, its important to make sure that all of your gear is in working order.

This includes the motor, navigation equipment, and safety equipment.

Know all the rules.

Familiarize yourself with all of the applicable rules and regulations for the area in which youre operating the motorboat.

This will help you stay safe and prevent any unnecessary fines or penalties.

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable motorboating experience.

Always remember to put safety first, and have fun!

Motorboat Maintenance and Repair

When it comes to motorboats, proper maintenance and repair is an essential part of ownership.

Regular maintenance will help ensure that your boat runs reliably and safely, and can even help extend the life of your boat.

Its important to check your motorboat regularly for any signs of wear and tear.

This includes checking the fuel system for leaks, the propeller and steering for damage, and the engine for any signs of irregular operation.

Additionally, its important to check the boats electrical system, including the battery, lights, and wiring.

When it comes to maintenance and repairs, its important to be aware of the different types of motorboats and the specific needs of each type.

For example, outboard motorboats require regular oil changes and fuel system maintenance, while inboard motorboats require regular coolant and transmission fluid changes.

Additionally, the type of motorboat you have will determine what type of maintenance and repair services you need.

Its also important to be familiar with the different components of a motorboat and how to maintain and repair them.

This includes the engine, drive system, fuel system, electrical system, and steering system.

Professional maintenance and repair services can help you ensure that your motorboat is running properly, and can even help you identify potential problems before they become major issues.

Finally, its important to be aware of the safety features of your motorboat and how to use them properly.

This includes learning how to operate the boat safely and how to use the safety devices and features, such as life jackets and fire extinguishers.

Additionally, its important to be aware of the local laws and regulations pertaining to motorboats, as these can vary from place to place.

By taking the time to properly maintain and repair your motorboat, you can ensure that your boat runs reliably and safely for years to come.

Regular maintenance and repairs can help extend the life of your boat, and can even help you save money in the long run.

Motorboat Accessories

When it comes to motorboats, there is no shortage of accessories to make your time on the water more enjoyable.

Whether youre looking for safety and convenience or entertainment, theres an accessory to meet your needs.

Safety accessories are a must for any motorboat.

Life jackets, flares, and fire extinguishers are all essential items for any motorboat owner.

Having fresh drinking water and a first aid kit on board is also a good idea.

Convenience accessories are also important.

A boat cover will protect your motorboat from the elements when not in use, and a trailer can make transporting your boat much easier.

Anchors, bumpers, and dock lines are also important for keeping your boat secure when not in use.

For entertainment, you can choose from a range of audio systems, TVs, and even a satellite dish.

Fishing accessories such as rods, reels, and tackle boxes can make a day on the water even more enjoyable.

For night trips, navigation lights and underwater lights can really make the experience memorable.

Finally, dont forget about the maintenance.

Keep your motorboat in tip-top shape with regular cleaning, waxing, and oil changes.

Having the right tools and supplies on board will ensure that youre always prepared for any situation.

So, whatever your needs may be, theres an accessory to make your time on the water more enjoyable.

From safety and convenience to entertainment, theres something for everyone.

With the right accessories, you can transform a day on the water into a truly unforgettable experience.

Motorboat Fuel Usage

When it comes to motorboats, one of the most important considerations is fuel usage.

Fuel consumption can vary greatly depending on the type of motorboat you have.

Outboard motorboats typically use gasoline, while inboard motorboats may use either gasoline or diesel.

Generally speaking, the larger the motorboat, the more fuel it will consume.

It is important to factor in fuel costs when considering whether or not to purchase a motorboat, as these costs can add up quickly.

However, fuel efficiency is not the only factor to consider.

Some motorboats are designed to be more fuel efficient than others.

For example, modern outboard motorboats are often designed with features like four-stroke engines and fuel injection systems that make them more fuel efficient.

Additionally, many motorboats are now equipped with advanced technology such as computerized fuel management systems that allow them to adjust fuel usage based on the conditions they are operating in.

When it comes to fuel usage, it is important to remember that a motorboat is only as efficient as the person operating it.

Simple things like avoiding sudden acceleration and excessive idling can help to reduce fuel consumption.

Additionally, using the appropriate fuel type for your motorboat (e.g.

gasoline for outboard motors, diesel for inboard motors) can help to reduce fuel consumption and optimize performance.

Finally, regular maintenance is key to keeping your motorboat running efficiently and prolonging its life.

Motorboat Speed and Capabilities

When it comes to motorboat speed and capabilities, it is important to note that these boats vary greatly depending on the type of motorboat.

Small outboard motorboats are typically much slower than larger luxury cruisers, but they are often more maneuverable and can be used for activities such as fishing and water skiing.

Outboard motorboats tend to have a top speed of around 25 mph, while luxury cruisers can reach speeds of up to 50 mph.

The type of motorboat you choose will also determine its capabilities.

Small outboard motorboats are typically more suitable for recreational activities such as fishing, water skiing, and cruising, while luxury cruisers are often better suited for longer trips or extended cruises.

These boats can also come equipped with amenities such as cabins, galley kitchens, and wet bars, allowing you to enjoy luxurious amenities while on the open water.

In addition, the size of the motorboat will also affect its speed and capabilities.

Larger motorboats will typically be able to travel faster and further than smaller motorboats, but they will also require more fuel and may be more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

Smaller motorboats, on the other hand, will be easier to maneuver and will require less fuel, but they will not be able to travel as far or as fast as larger boats.

Ultimately, the speed and capabilities of your motorboat will depend on the type of boat you choose and the size of the boat.

Small outboard motorboats are typically more suitable for recreational activities, while larger motorboats are better suited for extended trips and luxury cruises.

By choosing the right motorboat for your needs, you can enjoy the open water in style and comfort.

Motorboat Regulations

When operating a motorboat, it is important to understand and follow all applicable regulations.

All motorboats must comply with the applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

The primary federal law governing motorboat operations is the Federal Boat Safety Act, which requires motorboat operators to be properly licensed and to adhere to certain safety regulations.

In addition to the federal regulations, each state has its own set of laws and regulations governing motorboat operations, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the laws in your area.

In some states, motorboat operators must complete a boating safety course and obtain a boater safety certificate.

Additionally, some states may require certain types of motorboats to be registered, and may also impose restrictions on the operation of motorboats in certain areas.

In addition to these regulations, it is also important to be aware of local ordinances and regulations.

Local regulations may vary from state to state, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the laws in your area.

These local regulations may include speed limits, noise restrictions, and other restrictions.

Finally, it is important to be aware of the navigational rules of the road when operating a motorboat.

These rules include right of way rules, navigation lights, and other safety rules.

It is important to understand these rules to ensure the safety of yourself and other boaters.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know the basics of motorboats, it’s time to get out on the water and start boating! Whether you’re a novice boater or an experienced sailor, make sure you understand the rules and regulations for the area you’re boating in and always prioritize safety.

With the right knowledge and a few accessories, you’ll be able to enjoy the thrill of motorboating and make the most out of your time on the water.

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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• A-Z of motor boats: your ultimate guide

Motor boats don't often take centre stage in our magazine, but we're about to change that. This in-depth feature explores the different kinds of motorboats, their manufacturers, how they differ from sailboats, and weighs their pros and cons. We'll help you figure out if a motorboat is the right fit for you, when to best venture out on one, and we'll delve into the requirements and conditions for a skipper's licence. In essence, we're bringing you the complete motorboat rundown. All hail the engine!

Differences to a sailboat

The age-old debate of powerboat versus sailboat is a classic theme in many a nautical conversation. We're not here to pick a side between those who favour sails and those who prefer motors. Instead, our aim is to present you with a balanced view, packing all the necessary facts, insights, and knowledge into one comprehensive discussion.

Draft and bridges

A motorboat's draft is significantly shallower, thanks to the absence of a keel. Furthermore, the lack of a mast means there's no need to worry about the boat's height when it comes to passing under bridges. So from a depth and overhead clearance perspective, you're in safe waters with a motorboat.

YACHTING.COM TIP: If you've never sailed under the renowned Pasman-Ugljan bridge, which has spelled disaster for numerous sailing boats, a motorboat provides the perfect chance!

Space and comfort

Broadly speaking, aside from mega yachts or specialist vessels, motorboats provide more space both below and on deck compared to similarly sized sailboats. They also typically feature multiple deck levels. So you can bask in the sunshine on one deck, and find shelter in the shade on another. Furthermore, on a motorboat, you don't have to fret about a precarious jib or the risk of tripping over winches or ropes. The deck tends to be more open and free from sailing gear, allowing for easier movement and relaxation.

If you have crew members who do not tolerate the heeling of a sailboat well, this concern is completely eliminated with motor boats. Unless you're faced with sizeable waves, the boat is likely to maintain stability and you won't need to worry about any significant tilting. This makes a motorboat a more comfortable choice for those sensitive to the motion of the sea.

You wouldn't find such a load on a motorboat

A leisure sailboat simply can't match the speed of a powerboat. While most sailboats average around 7 knots, motorboats can easily reach 15 to 20 knots. If you enjoy the thrill of speed and the feeling of wind in your hair, a powerboat is the perfect choice for you.

Consumption and costs

On the flip side, with the increased speed comes higher fuel costs. While on a sailboat, you might only need to refuel at the end of your trip or 2-3 times a week at most, resulting in a manageable fuel bill. However, if you're sailing for extended periods each day on a motorboat, you'll find yourself refuelling frequently, at a higher cost, and spending a significant amount of time waiting to fill up the diesel tank.

Level of effort and work

Starting a motorboat is straightforward; turn it on and off you go, cruising wherever you fancy. There's no need to fuss over ropes, the jib, sails, lazy bags, lazy jacks, or the whereabouts of the crank. Unlike on a sailboat where there's always something to keep you occupied, a motorboat offers pure relaxation and peace of mind. If you're seeking a laid-back cruising experience, a powerboat is the way to go.

Sailing direction

As long as there are no big waves and the Bora is not blowing against you, you can sail your motorboat comfortably pretty much anywhere you want. This isn't the case with sailboats, where you might have to cruise or alter your destination if the wind is blowing directly against you. While sailboat enthusiasts often say, "the journey is the destination," powerboat users are more about reaching their destination promptly and without fuss.

What is the difference between a motor boat and a sailboat?

Despite their differences, powerboats and sailboats do share some commonalities, with maintenance being the prime one. Regardless of the type of boat you own, upkeep is crucial. This includes taking care of the sails or engine and ensuring regular servicing. Moreover, marina fees apply uniformly to both. The harbour masters charge based on the length of the boat, irrespective of whether it's a sailboat or a powerboat. The only exception might be a catamaran, which typically incurs a higher fee due to its dual-hulled design, making it wider and potentially occupying the space of two conventional berths.

Disadvantages of motor boats

While motor boats offer numerous advantages, it's important to consider their potential drawbacks as well. Let's take off the rose-tinted glasses and delve into some of the downsides associated with powerboats.

Fuel dependency and non-environmental operation

Unlike a sailboat that can harness the wind as a natural and free power source, a motorboat is completely reliant on diesel fuel. Running out of fuel in the middle of your journey can leave you stranded. Furthermore, this dependence on fossil fuels also means that operating a motorboat has a greater environmental impact compared to sailing.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Speaking of ecology, check out our guide — Green sailing: 11 tips for eco-friendly yachting . 

Less stability in wind

Motorboats lack a significant keel, resulting in reduced stability when faced with waves and strong winds. Consequently, it is advisable to opt for motorboat rentals during the summer season, when occurrences of powerful winds and waves are comparatively infrequent.

Calm and the smell of the sea

The sound of the engine never leaves you during your voyage which can get on people's nerves. Likewise, the typical smell of burning diesel can start to bother you after a while.

Who is a motor boat best suited for?

A motor boat is well-suited for individuals seeking relaxation, tranquillity, and minimal effort. With the simple act of starting the engine, you can swiftly set sail without any additional concerns. Plus, a motor boat is highly recommended for those who desire to explore a wide range of places, including beaches and other scenic locations. It is particularly advantageous for covering long distances between islands and the mainland within the typical timeframe of a one or two-week vacation. Motor yachts are also a favourable choice for yachters who enjoy fishing, as they provide a comfortable and convenient means of transportation for navigating to different areas and indulging in fishing activities.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Find out what else you can do while sailing in our article — Top 12 fun activities to do on a sailing holiday .

Fishing is an great addition to a boating holiday.

For nature lovers seeking harmony and a closer connection to the natural environment, a sailboat is more preferable than a motorboat. Sailboats provide a serene atmosphere and allow for a deeper appreciation of nature. Additionally, if the aim is to foster teamwork and engage in shared experiences, a sailboat offers more opportunities as it involves handling ropes and sails.  But if you want to relax with a bunch of friends, there's nothing better than a powerboat.

Motor boat season

Unlike sailing boats that typically operate in Europe from April to November, motor boats have a more limited season. The majority of motor cruising occurs between June and September, with peak activity in June and July. Other times of the year, motor yachts are less commonly seen at sea. This is because before and after this season, conditions tend to be windier and the sea becomes cooler, which is more appealing to racers on sailing yachts rather than those seeking a tranquillity on a motorboat, particularly in destinations like Croatia.

YACHTING.COM TIP: What winds and weather will you encounter in the Mediterranean over summer? Check out our guide — The 7 most common winds you'll find in the Mediterranean . 

Motor boat licence

The licence needed to operate a motor boat depends on two criteria — the engine power and the area where you will be boating (whether sea or inland waters). If you want to cruise on a motor boat with an engine power of  less than 4kW , then you don't need a licence. This applies to houseboats or small boats, for example. You can sail a boat with a 4kW to 20kW  engine on inland waters with a VMP licence, but for the sea you'll need an international skipper's licence just as for a sailing boat and in some countries (such as Croatia), a radio licence . With engine power  above 20kW , for inland sailing and on the sea, you will need a certificate of engine experience for inland sailing in addition to the VMP.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Still hesitating about getting your skipper's licence? Take a look at our 5 reasons to take a skipper's course . Then check out our sailing courses and you'll soon be sailing the seas!

How to choose a motor boat?

Motor boats have a slightly different interior layout than sailboats. The smaller ones often have only one or two cabins and it is automatically assumed that the other couple sleeps in the saloon, often in the bow. Check before you make your final booking that you will have plenty of privacy. Small motor boats are designed for a couple or small family rather than several people who don't know each other.

Route planning

When choosing a boat, take note of how much the boat consumes. You may find that the fuel will cost you the same amount of money as the charter itself in a week's sailing. Plan your itinerary in advance so you know what to expect.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Want to enjoy your cruise to the fullest and without a care in the world? Try hiring a professional skipper or hostess for your yacht. They'll take care of running the boat, cleaning and cooking, leaving you to relax and spend time with your loved ones. Just ask our sales team.

Highly renowned motor boat brands in the charter industry

Here we have picked out the most popular types of motor boats from our search portal.

Probably the most infamous brand of motorboats is Merry Fisher. The Merry Fisher 795 models are among the best sellers and the Merry Fisher 895 is a common sight cruising the coastline of Croatia. Another sought-after model is the Antares 9 OB , which is generously equipped for a comfortable boating holiday, but if you're after something bigger, the Antares 11 Fly is a great choice. The Greenline 33 or its larger sibling, the Greenline 39 , are also fantastic options.

The popular Antares 9 OB model.

Other types of motor boats

Every motor boat is unique, and there can be a wide range of vessels categorized under the name "motor boat." Let's explore some intriguing and lesser-known motor boats that have distinctive features and stand out from the norm.

Small motorboat

Charter services also offer the option to rent small motor boats, which are perfect for day trips to secluded beaches, nearby islands, or bays that are inaccessible by foot. These boats are typically compact and may not have cabins, making them suitable for short excursions. They are particularly recommended for families who have rented an apartment by the sea and wish to explore the surrounding areas by water. In many cases, these small motor boats are equipped with relatively low-powered engines, and in several countries, you may not even require a skipper's license to operate them. We recommend, for example, the Zodiac Madline 2 or the slightly larger Four Winns H210 .

You can also rent a smaller boat.

Few people can buy a superyacht. And although many more people can rent one, it is still quite expensive. A superyacht or megayacht is considered to be a boat longer than 80 feet but you'll have to hire a professional skipper as only a handful of skippers have a licence for a boat of this length. For example, we offer the superyacht Azimut Grande 27 or MY Custom Line 52 m . These can cost up to 100,000 euros to hire for a week, but the price often includes a crew to look after the boat (including the professional skipper).

Superyacht Azimut Grande 27

The main difference from the motor boats we rent at sea is that houseboats sail on freshwater streams and are designed for exploring rivers, canals, lakes, ponds, and dams. Although houseboats generally have less powerful engines, this feature often allows them to be rented without a license in most destinations. It's important to note that these houseboats are far from mundane, offering a unique and enjoyable holiday experience on calm waters. Check out these breathtaking destinations you can explore on a houseboat.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Never been on a houseboat?  Take a look at our our guide —   First time on a houseboat: 25 things you need to know!

This is what one of the most popular houseboats, the Nicols Estivale Sixto Prestige, looks like.

Power catamaran

Recently, motor catamarans or power catamarans have become more and more popular. They combine the advantages of a catamaran (two hulls, stability, space, nets to lie on,...) while offering the speed, carefree and comfort of a motor boat. Never driven a catamaran? Check out our article — First time on a catamaran: what you need to know

Body of a two-hulled power catamaran.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Wondering what are all the types of boat you can charter? You will be surprised how many there are. Check out the article —  Boats for rent: what types of boats do charter companies offer?

How to operate a motor boat?

If you have sailing experience, driving a powerboat will seem like something very simple. You don't have to worry about ropes, sails, vignettes, masts or a flying jib. You simply start the boat and cruise wherever you want. Then it's the same as mooring with a sailboat.

One important aspect to be aware of when operating a motor boat is the  engine trim . Engine trim refers to the adjustment of the angle between the propeller and the bottom of the boat. Ideally, the propeller should be positioned vertically downward. As a motor boat gains speed, the bow of the boat may lift, causing the propeller to partially submerge. In such cases, it is the responsibility of the captain to intervene and adjust the engine trim to ensure that the propeller is aligned vertically and not at any angle other than 90 degrees to the water surface. This adjustment is crucial to prevent the boat from jumping or unnecessarily impacting the water with the bow. By maintaining the correct trim, the boat can navigate efficiently and provide a comfortable sailing experience for all on board.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Do you know how to operate the outboard motor on a dinghy? Read our article — Dinghy and outboard motor: what you need to know .

Where to sail with a motor boat?

We've selected 3 regions where you can enjoy a fantastic time with a motorboat and take advantage of its superior speed.

Vineyards and islands off Hvar

Start your journey from Split and make your way to the enchanting island of Solta or the sun-soaked Brac. For a glimpse of Croatia's renowned beaches, don't miss out on visiting Zlatni Rat. Proceed to the captivating island of Hvar, where we suggest exploring either the lively town of Hvar itself, the more serene town of Stari Grad, or the authentically charming Vrboska. Indulge in an overnight stay at a tranquil cove on the island of Ščedro, where you can delight in snorkeling alongside majestic clams. Depending on your available time and preferences, continue your voyage to the island of Vis and discover the picturesque village of Komiza, where you can experience the novelty of standing on a buoy or by the pier. During the day, take a trip to the island of Bisevo, home to the famed Blue Spila (blue cave).

Ionian Sea (and turtles!)

Rent a boat on the Greek island of Corfu. Upon taking over the boat on Saturday, take a leisurely stroll to the charming capital, Kerkyra, where you'll be enchanted by its delightful streets and atmosphere. Next, set sail south towards the island of Paxos, renowned for its breathtaking bays. During the day, make sure to indulge in a refreshing swim in Lefkada, a destination in the western part that boasts stunning beaches reminiscent of the Caribbean. Consider spending the night in the lively bay of Vasiliki, known for its vibrant nightlife and one of Greece's most famous kebab joints. The following day, continue your journey to Kefalonia and then proceed onwards to Zakynthos, famously known as the "island of turtles." If possible, sail as far south as you can towards Zakynthos, maximizing your exploration of this captivating destination.

Italian temperament

Experience the enchanting Bay of Naples, beginning in Baiae and venturing to Ischia, where you can navigate its waters at your leisure. Along the way, explore the quaint islet of Procida. Consider Ponza as an alternative to the bustling island of Capri. If time permits, visit the renowned Positano. Carry on to the breathtaking town of Amalfi, with its cliffside houses. Above all, indulge in la dolce vita.

Whether it's a motorboat or a sailboat, I'll find you the perfect choice. Give me a call.

Denisa Nguyenová

Faq motor boats.

Free Abortions, Vasectomies Offered in Chicago During 2024 DNC?

"wow, the democrats know how to throw a convention," someone commented on reddit., anna rascouët-paz, published aug. 19, 2024.

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Planned Parenthood announced it would send two mobile health clinics to provide vasectomies and medication-based abortion services in Chicago during the convention. However ...

... These activities would not take place at the site of the convention itself but rather at two locations relatively close to the site. In addition, Planned Parenthood isn't associated with the Democratic Party or its 2024 annual convention.

Free abortions and vasectomies were to be offered in Chicago during the week of the 2024 Democratic National Convention (DNC), according to rumors that spread on the internet in the days leading up to it in August 2024:

(Todd Starnes/Facebook)

The claim also appeared on X in posts by conservative media sources Fox News and NewsNation. The online response was mixed, with some commenters expressing amusement ("Wow, the Democrats know how to throw a convention," someone commented on Reddit. "Good to know."), and others expressing outrage ( archived ):

Georgia Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene criticized the initiative , asking people to "choose life."

The claim was true. Planned Parenthood Great Rivers ' mobile clinic indeed announced on X on Aug. 14, and later on Facebook , that it would offer free abortions and vasectomies in Chicago during the week the convention was held, and even provided a link for registration ( archived ):

"EC" here stood for "emergency contraception," which the team said would be available for free without the need to make an appointment. (Great Rivers is located in Missouri, a state that made abortions illegal in 2022.) 

However, it was not true, as some social media posts claimed, that these medical services would be provided at the site of the convention. "Yes, we are providing these services for free," Nick Dunne, communications director for Planned Parenthood Great Rivers, told Snopes via email. "However we are not at or affiliated with the DNC."

The organization continued to advertise its initiative until Aug. 18, 2024, the day before the DNC was set to begin. Clicking on the link to the form , Snopes was able to confirm that there were no more appointments available as of that date, an indication that the initiative had been successful:

Addressing concerns that there were no more appointment slots left, the website added that Planned Parenthood would be able to send pills (a combination of mifepristone and misoprostol) for medical abortions by mail in the state of Illinois via the Planned Parenthood Direct application ( archived ):

In Illinois, medical abortions are authorized until the 12th week of pregnancy and these can be done in a medical setting or at home. They entail taking mifepristone first, to stop the production of progesterone, then misoprostol, which causes the body to expel the pregnancy. According to the Mayo Clinic, most vasectomies are reversible .

Patel, AbhishekP, and RyanP Smith. 'Vasectomy Reversal: A Clinical Update'. Asian Journal of Andrology, vol. 18, no. 3, 2016, p. 365. DOI.org (Crossref), https://doi.org/10.4103/1008-682X.175091.

Planned Parenthood Expands Availability of Medication Abortion to 12 Weeks of Pregnancy for Patients in Illinois. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-great-rivers/newsroom/press-releases/planned-parenthood-expands-availability-of-medication-abortion-to-12-weeks-of-pregnancy-for-patients-in-illinois. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.

Planned Parenthood Great Rivers. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-great-rivers. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.

Reporter, Giulia Carbonaro US News. 'Marjorie Taylor Greene Attacks "Free Vasectomies and Abortions" near DNC'. Newsweek, 18 Aug. 2024, https://www.newsweek.com/marjorie-taylor-greene-attacks-free-vasectomies-abortions-dnc-1940781.

Where Can I Get an Abortion? | U.S. Abortion Clinic Locator. https://www.abortionfinder.org/abortion-guides-by-state/abortion-in-missouri. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.

By Anna Rascouët-Paz

Anna Rascouët-Paz is based in Brooklyn, fluent in numerous languages and specializes in science and economic topics.

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Nhdot: all northbound lanes on interstate 93 back open after camper-trailer rollover.

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All northbound lanes are back open after a camper-trailer rolled over on Interstate 93 on Sunday.

The Bow Fire Department said emergency personnel responded to Interstate 93 North at mile marker 33.2 for a report of a motor vehicle accident.

Authorities said a camper-trailer rolled over on the highway, causing a fuel leak.

The Bow Fire Department said crews addressed the leak and helped treat the occupants involved in the rollover. Authorities said there were no injuries.

Bow officials said they responded to two crashes on Sunday, with the other one being on Interstate 89 in Hopkinton between Exits 6 and 7.

Types of Powerboats

28 motorboat types – from aft-cabin to walkaround.

If you’ve been browsing our listings for new and used boats , you likely have questions about sizes, styles, makes and models. Because the powerboat market is constantly changing, many categories of powerboats can share characteristics with another type of boat or yacht.

As Western Canada’s yachting experts , we can help make sense of it all.

Whether you need a new dinghy/tender for your yacht, are looking for your very first boat, or would like to upgrade from a cruiser to a luxury model by Pursuit , read on to choose the right boat for your needs.

Powerboat Types

Aft-Cabin : The aft-cabin boat has a stateroom on the stern of the boat. This type of boat has a ladder or stairs to access the cockpit as well as the helm. It is also a flybridge but there is a stateroom located on the stern of the boat.  The inboard engine is centrally located, generally underneath the living room floor.

Bass Boat : Primarily used for fishing on lakes and rivers, this a type of boat with a flat deck, low freeboard and a shallow draft.

Bay Boat : The Bay Boat has a low-freeboard centre console and is designed for use near shore and around coastal waters.

Bowrider : A Bowrider is a powerboat with seating in the bow area with room for eight or more people. The v-shaped hull creates a smooth ride inland or in coastal waters.

Cabin Cruiser : Any motorboat with sleeping accommodations within can be called a cabin cruiser. These are perfect for relaxed cruises and have many modern amenities like heaters and air conditioners. Ideal for coastal waters, cabin cruisers have a deep v-shaped hull and a secure drive shaft mechanism.

Catamaran: With dual hulls, a catamaran is more stable than other types of power boats, but it’s also much pricier. Catamarans are a crossover powerboat, with sails as well as engines.

Center Console : A powerboat with the steering station in the centre of the boat. These crafts generally have an outboard motor and are perfect for ocean cruising with larger waves.

Convertible : A larger sized boat with a flybridge built on top of the cabin and an open cockpit aft. These are favoured for weekend cruising.

Cuddy Cabin : A powerboat with a relatively small, no frills cabin on its bow section. Good as a weekender for cruising the coast.

Deck Boat : This has a flat, open deck plan and no accommodations below decks. Most deck boats are box shaped, creating more forward deck space.

Dinghy: Using small outboard motors, a dinghy or tender can be inflatable or hard-sided. They’re used for transporting people and their belongings to and from shore.

Dual Console : A boat with twin dashboards, separated by a walk-through that accesses a forward cockpit or seating area.

Express Boat : A sleek boat with a steering station on deck level, no flybridge, and a cabin that is forward and lower than the helm.

Fishing Boat:  Easily maneuverable, most fishing boats usually have a front bow, features like rod holders, live well compartments and trolling motors.

Flats Boat : This is a skiff used for fishing in shallow-water areas.

Flybridge :  Boat with a helm above the interior cabin that is accessed by stairs or a ladder. This provides more vision while navigating the boat and adds more living space underneath.

Houseboat : Built on a barge-like hull, a houseboat acts as a floating RV. Also known as float houses, houseboats can be bare bones or loaded with luxurious extras and are ideal for entertaining and enjoying water sports. Some can be used for cruising, while others are moored in place.

Jon Boat : Usually made of aluminum, a Jon boat is a small utilitarian boat with a flat bottom.

Megayacht: A yacht exceeding 200 feet and reaching up to 500 feet, megayachts are custom-made and accessible to only the wealthiest in the world. Featuring luxuries like large swimming pools, heliport, 3 or more guest rooms and room for a full crew of around 30 people, megayachts are decadent floating resorts.

Pontoon Boat : Built on two or more aluminum pontoons, a pontoon boat has a flat deck and a perimeter fence and is most often used for tour groups.

Rigid Inflatable Boat : Also known as RIBs, a Rigid Inflatable Boat is an inflatable boat built around a rigid hull made of fiberglass or aluminum.

Sedan Bridge :  In a Sedan Bridge, the cockpit is almost at the same level as the boat’s aft deck. This means that there’s no need to climb stairs or a ladder to reach the cockpit. The Sedan Bridge and Sport Bridge are similar in that they both offer easy access to the cockpit.

Skiff: Skiffs have a flat bottom and pointed bow, making them ideal for navigating shallow water. In many different sizes and lengths, skiffs are easy to operate with a basic steering console.

Superyacht: A superyacht is a yacht that is over 100 feet but less than 200 feet long. With multiple accommodations and multiple decks, a living room, galley and lounges, it’s meant for hosting many guests and enjoying fun in the sun out on the water.

Skylounge : A Flybridge with an enclosed cockpit, the Skylounge offers exceptional comfort for the captain and people accompanying the captain. With air conditioning, a sofa, a full bar, tv and many other amenities, the cockpit is fully protected from the elements.

Trawler: A long-distance recreational vessel that resembles commercial trawlers, this boat is ruggedwith a displacement hull and efficient engine(s). Made for long-haul cruising with minimal horsepower and fuel consumption, trawlers have all modern facilities on board for optimal comfort.

PWC (Personal Watercraft): PWC boats, also known as water scooters and jet skis, are designed for fun and adventure. Sit down models are meant for two or more people, while stand up models are meant for one rider.

Walkaround : Built with side decks around the cabin, a walkaround boat lets passengers easily walk around the cabin and up to the foredeck.

At Van Isle Marina, our team of certified brokers specialize in matching skippers like you with their perfect boat. If we don’t have it in stock, we will search the world over to locate it. To get started on your search, browse our boats and yachts for sale , call us , or visit our world-class sales dock at 2320 Harbour Rd in Sidney, BC.

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Bridge into busy Jersey Shore town closed indefinitely

• Updated: Aug. 19, 2024, 9:48 p.m.
• | Published: Aug. 18, 2024, 9:11 a.m.

A motor failure forced officials to close the Middle Thorofare Bridge, which is also called the Two Mile Bridge, to all car, bike and pedestrian traffic early Sunday morning, local and county officials said. Matt Dowling | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

• Katie Kausch | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

UPDATE: Jersey Shore bridge will be stuck open for ‘many weeks’ as workers scramble to find parts

The bridge heading into Wildwood Crest is closed indefinitely after a mechanical failure, the town’s mayor said early Sunday morning.

The Middle Thorofare Bridge, also called the Two Mile Bridge, was closed to all car, bike and pedestrian traffic early Sunday morning, Mayor Don Cabrera said in a Facebook post.

A motor failure that could not be repaired is behind the closure, Cabrera said. The bridge is now stuck in the upright position, which allows for commercial vessels to sail through but makes the bridge impassible to cars.

It’s not clear how long it will take to fix the bridge, Cabrera, and it “could be an extended period of time.”

“The bridge has a total failure of the drive shaft motor used to open the bridge on demand, which failed at 10 a.m. on Saturday,” Cape May County officials said in a statement.

“The bridge electrical engineers performed many tests, concluding that the motor was inoperable and irreparable,” county official said. “The Bridge Commission is currently reviewing all options available both nationally and globally to source this highly specialized motor with the goal of replacement as soon as possible, with the best-case scenario is it taking many weeks.”

The New Jersey Department of Transportation did not immediately respond to a request for comment Sunday morning.

Drivers heading into Wildwood Crest should plan to take an alternate route.

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Weighted sample size was computed based on survey weights in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. For the groups aged 18 to 29 years, the weighted sample sizes were 252 million nonpregnant female occupants, 15 million pregnant female occupants, and 289 million male occupants. For the groups aged 30 to 44 years, the weighted sample sizes were 353 million nonpregnant female occupants, 12 million pregnant female occupants, and 360 million male occupants. Data on seat belt use were not available for 2007, 2009, and 2019.

eFigure. Exclusion Criteria Related to Seat Belt Use Analysis, With Unweighted Number of Observations Excluded and Remaining in Dataset, BRFSS, 2006, 2008, 2010-2018, 2020 (Belt Use Data Not Available for 2007, 2009, 2019)

eReferences.

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Espelien C , Jin R , Mostofizadeh S, et al. Seat Belt Use in the US by Pregnant Motor Vehicle Occupants. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(9):e2334272. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.34272

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Seat Belt Use in the US by Pregnant Motor Vehicle Occupants

• 1 Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Center for Applied Biomechanics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
• 2 Department of Public Health Sciences, Division of Biostatistics, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
• 3 Honda Development and Manufacturing of America, LLC, Crash Safety Department, Auto Development Center, Raymond, Ohio
• 4 Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville

Motor vehicle (MV) collisions are a leading cause of trauma for pregnant individuals in the US that often result in adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. 1 MV collisions account for 82% of injury-induced fetal deaths and 55% to 78% of trauma-related hospital admissions among pregnant individuals. 1 , 2 Seat belts are recommended for all occupants, although it remains unclear whether seat belt use differs between pregnant occupants and occupants from other demographic subgroups. 3 Using nationally representative survey responses, we assessed patterns of seat belt use among pregnant, nonpregnant, and male occupants.

This cross-sectional study analyzed responses from the Center of Disease Control and Prevention Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Use of BRFSS is exempt from institutional review board approval because it is deidentified and publicly available. Data from 2006, 2008, 2010-2018, and 2020 across US states, territories, and the District of Columbia were included to determine prevalence and trends of seat belt use, which was defined as “always wearing a seat belt” in survey responses that are consistent with field observations. 4 Analysis was compliant with STROBE reporting guidelines. Our exclusion criteria are detailed in the eFigure in Supplement 1 . Survey-weighted responses were aggregated by year, age group, sex, and pregnancy status and analyzed using beta regression, with the nonpregnant female group treated as the reference (eMethods in Supplement 1 ).

A total of 1 389 538 respondents were identified, consisting of 741 032 nonpregnant females (53.3%), 30 193 pregnant females (2.2%), and 618 313 males (44.5%) with unweighted mean (SD) ages 33.3 (7.4), 29.5 (5.8), and 32.3 (7.7) years, respectively. Weighted estimates of seat belt use by year, age, sex, and pregnancy status are shown in the Figure . We found significantly higher seat belt use among respondents aged 30 to 44 years vs those aged 18 to 29 years (odds ratio [OR], 1.62; 95% CI, 1.52-1.72).

The Table shows age-adjusted estimates of seat belt use for the first (2006) and last (2020) survey year, the annual percent change, and the ORs for comparison with nonpregnant females. In 2020, there was no significant difference between pregnant and nonpregnant female seat belt use at just over 88%, which exceeds the male occupant estimate by 5%. The estimated trend in seat belt use was 0.00%/y (95% CI, −1.65%/y to 1.97%/y) for pregnant females but 3.37%/y (95% CI, 1.77%/y-4.98%/y) for males and 1.96%/y (95% CI, 0.00%/y-3.72%/y) for nonpregnant females.

We used nationally representative survey data to examine patterns of seat belt use among pregnant female occupants, a group with a wide range of previously reported US-based rates (76%-94%). 3 We found that seat belt use among pregnant and nonpregnant occupants was similarly high during the most recent survey year. Unlike nonpregnant female occupants and male occupants, whose seat belt use increased over time, pregnant occupants showed flat trends, indicating a potential barrier to habitual use. Prior estimates of pregnant occupant seat belt use have often been derived from convenience samples, which can be limited in sample size or biased due to involvement in a MV collision, trauma admission, or the setting of data collection. 5 To our knowledge, our study provides the first national estimate of seat belt use among pregnant occupants that minimizes selection bias; however, like any survey, BRFSS is limited by the self-reported nature of the data.

Among pregnant occupants, common reasons for not wearing a seat belt include forgetting, abdominal discomfort, 3 and perceived uncertainty about its effect on maternal and fetal safety. 6 Standard reminder systems can mitigate forgetfulness, but changes to belt system design may also improve habitual use by alleviating discomfort and accommodating the unique needs of pregnant occupants. Additionally, increasing awareness around the sustained benefits of seat belts throughout pregnancy may reduce the rate and severity of maternal and fetal collision-related injuries, especially among younger occupants whose seat belt use rates are lower than those of older occupants. These discussions can be initiated by obstetrics professionals during routine prenatal visits, in line with American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidance recommending pregnant individuals always wear a seat belt.

Accepted for Publication: August 10, 2023.

Published: September 18, 2023. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.34272

Open Access: This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the CC-BY-NC-ND License . © 2023 Espelien C et al. JAMA Network Open .

Corresponding Author: Corina Espelien, BS, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Center for Applied Biomechanics, University of Virginia, 4040 Lewis and Clark Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22911 ( [email protected] ).

Author Contributions: Drs Jin and Chernyavskiy had full access to all of the data in the study and take responsibility for the integrity of the data and the accuracy of the data analysis.

Concept and design: Espelien, Mostofizadeh, VanRyzin, Forman, Chernyavskiy.

Acquisition, analysis, or interpretation of data: Espelien, Jin, Mostofizadeh, Hartka, Forman, Chernyavskiy.

Drafting of the manuscript: Espelien, Hartka, Chernyavskiy.

Critical review of the manuscript for important intellectual content: Espelien, Jin, Mostofizadeh, VanRyzin, Forman, Chernyavskiy.

Statistical analysis: Espelien, Jin, Hartka, Chernyavskiy.

Obtained funding: Espelien, Mostofizadeh, VanRyzin, Forman.

Administrative, technical, or material support: Espelien, Mostofizadeh, VanRyzin, Forman.

Supervision: Mostofizadeh, VanRyzin, Forman, Chernyavskiy.

Conflict of Interest Disclosures: Ms Espelien and Drs Jin, Hartka, and Forman reported receiving grants from Honda Motor Co during the conduct of the study. Mss Mostofizadeh and VanRyzin reported being employed by and receiving a salary from Honda Development and Manufacturing of America, LLC. Dr Chernyavskiy reported receiving grants from Honda Motor Co via contract to the Center for Advanced Biomechanics during the conduct of the study and receiving personal fees from Biocore, LLC for statistical consulting unrelated to the current work. No other disclosures were reported.

Funding/Support: Honda Development and Manufacturing of America, LLC provided both technical and financial support to the authors via contract 2000061412.

Role of the Funder/Sponsor: The funder had no role in the design and conduct of the study; collection, management, analysis, and interpretation of the data; and decision to submit the manuscript for publication. Mss Mostofizadeh and VanRyzin reviewed, edited, and approved the final copy of the submitted manuscript.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and not of the sponsors.

Data Sharing Statement: See Supplement 2 .

Additional Contributions: Ms Mary Gallaher, UVA-CAB, provided substantial contributions to the ideation and initialization of this research and was financially compensated as an undergraduate researcher.

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Types of Powerboats and Their Uses

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What Is An Outboard Runabout?

Bass boats are generally 14' to 23', and typically used for freshwater fishing. They have low freeboard and a V hull. They are specialized for bass fishing on inland lakes and rivers. Due to the special gear, high horsepower outboards and trolling motors they are a relatively high price point.

Bay boats have a low profile. They are designed for use in shallow waters of large shallow bays, estuaries or near shore. Bay boats are 18'–24' in length and are fiberglass because they are used in salt or brackish waters. They have more freeboard than a flats boat.

A bowrider has an open bow area designed for extra seats forward of the helm. Bowriders are usually 17'–30'. They are powered by either stern drive or outboard engines. Considered a family boat and can be used for fishing and water sports. A good choice for those new to boating.

Center Console

Center console boats are from 13'–45'. They are so-named because their helm is on a console in the center of the boat. Like walkarounds, the open hull helps anglers walk from bow to stern without having to navigate around the console. Most use outboard motors for propulsion and the larger size boats are suited for offshore fishing.

Convertible Fishing Boat

Convertibles are 35 foot and greater boats suited for offshore fishing and cruising. They have large cabins, galleys and berths and are perfect for pleasure cruises and offshore fishing. The flybridge with elevated helm helps to spot flotsam or fish. They have a large fishing deck aft.

Cruisers are from 21'–45' in length and have a cabin in the bow of the boat. Cruiser cabins are designed for an overnight stay and are typically large enough for a small galley, several berths and an enclosed head.

Cuddy Cabin

Cuddy cabin boats have a small cabin for storage or a small seating area. They may accommodate a berth and or head. They are usually about 22–30 feet in length.

Deck boats have a wide beam and feature a V-shaped hull which offers more performance than a pontoon boat. Featuring an open deck with plenty of seating for parties or family. Used for swimming and water sports. They are outboard or stern drive powered and can be aluminum or fiberglass. These boat are about 25–35 feet long.

A dinghy is a small boat, usually 7–12 feet in length. They are usually powered by oars, small outboards, or sails. Often carried or towed by a larger boat for going ashore. Low cost and an excellent choice for those new to boating.

Downeast Cruiser

These boats are native to coastal New England. Also called lobster boats, they are built for offshore cruising and fishing. They have a cabin with berths and a head and dining area.

Dual Console

Dual Console boats have two dashboards and windshieldswith space to walk between them for allowing access to the bow area for seating and/or fishing. Lengths run 16–30 feet.

Express Fisherman

The Express Fisherman is designed for high speeds to get to offshore fishing spots in a hurry. They are rigged for offshore fishing. They have large open cockpits and fish fighting areas aft. They usually have limited cruising accommodations but can provide overnight shelter.

Fish 'n Ski Boat

Fish 'n Ski boats are used for fishing or skiing. These are family boats. They have accessories for each application. They feature comfortable seating and offer livewells and tie downs for rods and have removable, elevated tow bars and ski lockers. They are usually 16–24 feet in length.

Flats Boats range from 14 feet to 18 feet and are specifically designed to navigate shallow waters needing extremely shallow drafts. A push pole is used to navigate the shallow water.

High Performance Boat

Performance powerboats are built for speed, featuring narrow beam, steep deadrise, and high power to weight ratios. They have Spartan cabins. Cockpits seat 2–6 passengers. Powered by high horsepower outboards, stern drives or surface drives, these boats are carefully designed to be fast, light and strong, ideal for racing or fast cruising. They range from 25–60 feet in length.

As the name implies houseboats are floating houses. They are either outboard or inboard propelled and range from 25 to 150 feet in length. Just like a house they have full kitchens, bedrooms and living and dining areas. They are the ultimate family boat. They are generally found on quieter bodies of water since they have low freeboards and are built on a barge-like hull.

Inflatable Boat

Usually 6'–14' in length and have inflatable tubes for their sides. The floor is flexible or made rigid using plywood or aluminum floorboards depending on the size. Outboard motors can be used on the rigid transom. They deflate and are easy to transport or store. Used as dinghies on larger boats. A good choice for those new to boating.

Jet Boats have single or multiple jet drives instead of a propeller for propulsion. They are very maneuverable. These smaller boats (14–24 feet) are generally used for water sports and getting into shallow waters.

Jon boats are small utility craft primarily used for boating in shallow water. They range from 10 to 18 feet in length. They can be made of aluminum or fiberglass. They are inexpensive and a good choice for the novice boater.

Multi-species Boat

Multi-species boats are 17–23 feet in length. They are made of fiberglass or aluminum. They are designed to travel in rougher water than bass boats. As the name implies, these boats are made for fishing a variety of different fish in all types of water.

Pilothouse Boat

Featuring a fully enclosed pilot house, these boats are built to ride rougher seas while keeping helmsman high and dry. They are powered by outboards, stern drives or inboards. They are popular for cruising and many types of fishing. They usually have a berth and a head. They are usually 20–35 feet in length.

Pontoon Boat

Pontoon boats have 2 or 3 aluminum tubes that support a broad platform. They have shallow drafts and are very stable. They are usually found on inland lakes and rivers and other small bodies of water. Used for cruising, fishing and water sports. Powered by an outboard or stern-drive. Lengths from 15–30 feet.

Power Catamaran

These dual-hull boats are generally used for offshore fishing. They are more rugged, provide a more stable ride, faster speeds and better fuel economy than mono-hulls. They are 25–40 feet in length.

PWC (Personal Watercraft)

Entry level boats that are fun to drive and economical to buy. They come in lengths from 9–14 feet. They are usually built for 1 or 2 people but larger, more powerful models can seat up to 4. They are powered by jet drive.

Rigid Inflatable

RIBs (rigid inflatable boat)s have a fiberglass or aluminum hull attached to inflatable outer tubes. Outboard motors are used on the transom for power. RIBs are usually faster, larger, and can carry more weight than flexible floored inflatables. They also come in larger sizes.

Many boats are called runabouts. Generally a runabout is defined as a small powerboat somewhere in the 14–24 foot range. They are usually powered by an outboard or stern-drive engine. They are a multipurpose boat suitable for water sports, cruising and fishing.

Sedan Bridge Boat

Intended for extended cruising with accommodations down below to suit long stays on the water. They range from about 35–65 feet. The bridge positions the helmsman high above the water allowing for great visibility.

Ski and Wakeboard Boat

These boats are designed specifically for water sports. They can be ballasted for producing higher wakes for trick skiing and waterboarding. They are also great for pulling inflatable tubes.

The skiff is similar to a Jon boat. They are another entry level boat. They are especially good for boating in shallow water. The can have flat or cathedral shaped hulls. Many have a console to steer from.

Utility Boat

Utility boats are made for tough use. Generally made of aluminum with outboard power and range from 12–20 feet. Used for fishing or as workboats. Relatively low cost to maintain and a good choice for the novice boater.

Walkarounds

Walkarounds allow an angler to walk around the cabin. They are generally 20–30 feet in length. They are usually found on larger bodies of water and can be powered by an outboard, Inboard/outboard or inboard engine.

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Get Busy Boating

Boat vs. Personal Watercraft: Here’s The Difference

If you’re in the market for your first water-faring vessel, then you may wonder about the differences between a boat and a personal watercraft. In this explanatory guide, I’ll tell you everything you need to know.

What are the differences between a boat and a personal watercraft? Boats and personal watercraft are different in areas such as vessel shape and size, speed, storage, carrying capacity, maintenance, and price. 

If you want to learn even more about what separates personal watercraft and boats, this guide will explain more fully. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know which vessel you should buy!

What Is a Boat?

Technically, a boat is a watercraft, but it’s not a personal watercraft. (If that doesn’t yet make sense, it will soon).

Boats come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and styles, but what separates them from ships is their size. Ships are larger and thus have a greater carrying capacity than boats. 

A boat can be used in all sorts of different bodies of water, from placid bodies like lakes and streams to bays and oceans. 

Boats are also available powered or unpowered. A powered boat requires those on board to use a pole, paddle, or oar to manually propel the boat forward as well as do other maneuvers. 

A powered boat usually has an engine, be that an outboard or inboard engine, that allows the boat to reach variable speeds on the water. Batteries, a steam engine, and an internal combustion engine are other sources of power. 

An engine needn’t always be the source of power. A boat with sails is also considered a powered vessel. The boat would rely on the wind to navigate. 

The Types of Boats

There are many, many types of boats out there. Perhaps in the future, I’ll explore the full list, but for now, I just want you to have a clear idea of what constitutes a boat.

Thus, these are the most popular types of boats.

• Banana boat: No, not like the sunscreen company. A banana boat is an inflatable boat shaped, appropriately enough, like a banana. Often used for cargo, a banana boat can carry passengers as well, usually up to 10.
• Jon boat: Jon boats are flat or almost flat bottom boats commonly made of polyethylene (plastic), aluminum, fiberglass, or even wood sometimes. They’re often rectangular in shape with a blunt nose. Jon boats are relatively cheaper than other boats and easier to transport due to their being lightweight.
• Ski boat: Ski boats are inboard boats with a unique propeller and engine configuration that allow the boat to achieve fast speeds.
• Pontoon boat: The classic pontoon is a large, rectangular, flat, slow-traveling boat. Supported by dual pontoon tubes, a pontoon can be as large as 30 feet and carry large numbers of passengers. Pontoons are beloved for their stability.
• Jet boat: If you have the need for speed, a jet boat will satisfy. These highly maneuverable boats feature a propulsion system that sends water behind the boat as you race.
• Lifeboat: You don’t use a lifeboat for recreational boating, but rather, these types of boats exist to save lives. A lifeboat will carry life jackets, medical supplies, and possibly food and water as well.
• Motor yacht: An upscale type of boat, a motor yacht includes up to two engines, typically diesel engines. These boats turn heads and make people yearn for the good life on the sea.
• Cabin cruiser: An enclosed type of boat, cabin cruisers are very luxurious as well. The boat has a galley and runs on a generator so it can offer air conditioning. Designed for saltwater bodies, a cabin cruiser utilizes rudder steering, a wide berth, and a deep V-shaped bottom.
• Game boat: A game boat is for game fishing. With a fiberglass shell and gas or diesel engine, a game boat features a cooking galley, plumbing system, and sleeping quarters so you can take an extended fishing trip.
• Runabout boat: A runabout boat is a casual type of boat for water skiing, fishing, and boat racing. The capacity of one of these boats is tremendous, as a runabout can fit upwards of eight people. 
• Trawler boat: Another style of fishing boat, a trawler features a displacement hull and a slow speed. The fuel efficiency is great so you can travel longer without going through your fuel supply.
• Cuddy cabin: A cuddy cabin has an aluminum or fiberglass skeleton, fishing features, plenty of storage, and an enclosed deck. You can also use a cuddy cabin for watersports.
• Catamaran: The sailing catamaran has two long hulls equidistant to one another. Each hull lacks volume but has a shallow draft and a high rate of displacement. You can cruise on one of these boats for a fun day trip. Catamarans come in handy for fishing too.
• Center console boat: A center console boat is the one for you if your boating adventures sometimes take you off the beaten path. Designed for offshore waterways, even the rougher ones, a center console also makes an excellent fishing vessel.
• Dinghy boat: A dinghy refers to a sailboat, rowboat, or inflatable boat. These are non-powered boats that require you to use sails or oars to steer. Some might have outboard engines, but this is considered uncommon.
• Houseboat: Houseboats are designed for full-time living on the water. While that’s not for everyone, houseboats have what you need, including plenty of amenities inside for sleeping, cooking, bathing, and living.
• Deck boat: A deck boat is a boat measuring 25 to 35 feet long. The boat is characterized by its wider beam, V hull, and power drive. Deck boats have even more room for passengers than you would expect!
• Bowrider: Considered a good family boat, a bowrider offers a swimming platform for diving, plenty of space, and room for at least eight people. The V-shaped hull allows a bowrider to traverse all sorts of waters. 

What Is a Personal Watercraft?

Next, let’s switch gears and discuss what a personal watercraft is. 

A personal watercraft is sometimes called a jet ski, a water scooter, or simply a PWC. 

You can select from two personal watercraft styles, the first being a stand-up PWC and the second a sit-down PWC.

A stand-up personal watercraft requires the rider to–as you might have guessed–stand while riding. 

A sit-down personal watercraft, which is sometimes referred to as a runabout, allows the rider to sit while riding. 

Jet skis and other types of personal watercraft feature an inboard engine. The engine activates a pump jet with an impeller that allows the rider to steer and receive enough thrust to move forward on the water. 

Boat vs. Personal Watercraft

Now that you have a much clearer picture in your mind about what a boat and personal watercraft are respectively, let’s go over the differences between boats and personal watercrafts. 

Boats come in a multitude of shapes, as the section on the various types of boats should have proven. 

Some are large and boxy such as pontoon boats. Many more feature refined V-shaped hulls.

There’s a reason for this recurring feature. A V-shaped hull enables a boat to slice swiftly and easily through the water, which also increases the boat’s speed potential (more on this to come).

That’s why you so commonly see personal watercraft with V-shaped hulls as well. 

PWCs, like boats, are on the market in a variety of sizes. 

• Sit-down personal watercraft can measure anywhere from 40 to 50 inches wide and 120 to 130 inches long. 
• A stand-up personal watercraft has an average width of 25 to 30 inches and a standard length of 80 to 100 inches. 

Some boats are sized about the same as a personal watercraft.

Much more often though, a boat will outsize a PWC by a significant margin, especially if we’re comparing a jet ski to a pontoon boat, a houseboat, or a yacht. 

Storage Capacity 

Whether you’re taking a day trip with your entire family or even plan on staying a night or two on your vessel, storage capacity is important.

You can’t exactly camp out on a personal watercraft. The vessel simply doesn’t have the size or the amenities for that.

Thus, the storage capacity is about commensurate with what you’d expect of a PWC’s size. You might have front, under-seat, or rear storage, but we’re talking storage compartments. That’s all. 

These compartments are designed to hold your phone, some drinks, a few snacks, and other essentials, but nothing extensive.

Boats, given that they’re usually larger than PWCs, do have a greater storage capacity.

At the very least, you’ll find dedicated storage areas and cubbies for more significant storage than that mentioned above.

For enclosed boats designed for multiday boating excursions, you’ll have more ample storage still for keeping clothes, shoes, and everyday essentials safe from the water. 

Passenger Capacity

A personal watercraft, at the very least, is made for a single passenger. At most, these vessels can carry four people.

PWC models with such a high passenger capacity are uncommon, though. More than likely, most personal watercraft you see will be able to carry two people, maybe three tops.

The passenger capacity of a boat varies by a huge degree. 

Some boats are more intimate and only allow for two or three people including the driver. Other boats can easily carry groups of between four and eight people.

The biggest boats may easily be able to transport a dozen people. 

Maintenance

When it comes to maintaining your vessel, is that easier to do with a boat or a personal watercraft?

While I would say that depends on the size of the boat, a PWC is generally the easier to maintain of the two. 

The internal mechanisms that drive a personal watercraft are less complex than that of a boat, which makes the PWC easier to understand and thus personally upkeep. 

A personal watercraft such as a jet ski is also often smaller than a boat as well. With fewer parts in general, be those moving or unmoving parts, you won’t spend as much time or as much money on maintenance.

Offseason Storage Options

A personal watercraft is small enough that you can lift it from the water, cover it, and store it in your garage until winter ends and the warm, long days fill the calendar again.

Granted, not all PWCs are that lightweight. Some weigh hundreds of pounds and others over a thousand pounds. You can’t lug those around nearly as easily.

When it comes to storing a boat, if yours is smaller, then you can follow the PWC storage method and slap a cover on the boat and stash it in your garage away from direct sunlight.

Much more often though, you’ll have to pay to keep your boat in an enclosed, climate-controlled environment.

The last significant difference between a boat and a personal watercraft is the price. 

The average cost of a new jet ski is between $5,000 and $20,000, with most buyers paying somewhere in the ballpark of $12,500. 

As for the cost of a new boat, it’s all over the map depending on the factors discussed above such as shape, size, and carrying capacity. 

Here’s a list that goes over the types of boats and their accompanying prices when bought new:

• Yachts – $30,000 and up
• Cabin cruisers – $100,000 to $500,000
• Houseboats – $100,000 and up
• Trawlers – $90,000 and up
• Speedboats – $75,000 and up
• Cuddy cabins – $50,000 and up
• Fishing boats – $25,000 to $100,000
• Deck boats – $20,000 to $50,000
• Pontoon boats – $15,000 to $50,000
• Sailboats – $12,000 and up
• Bow riders – $15,000 to $50,000
• Catamarans – $10,000 and up
• Jon boats – $500 to $3,000

Unless you’re interested in buying a very simple boat for daytime use like a jon boat, then you’re going to pay significantly more money for a new boat than a new PWC. 

Once you get into used boats versus used watercraft, the line can become blurrier. 

Generally, older boats will sell for cheaper prices commensurate with the costs of a new jet ski.

If you want a newer used boat in better condition, you’d still end up paying more for a used boat than a used personal watercraft.  

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• Boater Education

Boating Glossary

AT ANCHOR - Held in place in the water by an anchor, includes "moored" to a buoy or anchored vessel and "dragging anchor."

BOATING ACCIDENT - A collision, accident, or casualty involving a vessel in or upon, or entering into or exiting from, the water, including capsizing, collision with another vessel or object, sinking, personal injury, death or disappearance of any person from on board under circumstances which indicate the possibility of death or injury, or property damage to any vessel or dock.

CABIN MOTORBOAT - Motorboats with a cabin which can be completely closed by means of doors or hatches. Large motorboats with cabins, even though referred to as yachts, are considered to be cabin motorboats.

CAPSIZING - Overturning of a vessel.

COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VESSEL - Any striking together of two or more vessels, regardless of operation at time of the accident, is a collision. (Also includes colliding with the tow of another vessel, regardless of the nature of the tow; e.g., surfboard, ski ropes, skier, tow line, etc.)

COLLISION WITH FIXED OBJECT - The striking of any fixed object above or below the surface of the water.

COLLISION WITH A FLOATING OBJECT - Collision with any waterborne object (except another vessel) above or below the surface that is free to move with the tide, current, or wind.

CRUISING - Proceeding normally, unrestricted, with an absence of drastic rudder or engine changes.

DOCUMENTED VESSEL - A vessel for which a valid certificate of documentation is outstanding pursuant to 46 C.F.R. part 67. Documented vessels are not numbered.

DOCUMENTED YACHT - A vessel of five or more net tons owned by a citizen of the United States and used exclusively for pleasure with a valid marine document issued by the United States Coast Guard. Documented vessels are not numbered.

DRIFTING - Underway, but not proceeding over the bottom with use of engines, oars, or sails; being carried along only by the tide, current, or wind.

FALLEN SKIER - A person who has fallen off their waterskis.

FALL OVERBOARD - A person who unintentionally exits the vessel.

FAULT OF OPERATOR - Speeding, overloading, improper loading, not properly seating occupants of boat, no proper look-out, carelessness, failure to heed weather warnings, operating in a congested area, not observing the Rules of the Road, unsafe fueling practices, lack of experience, ignorance of aids to navigation, lack of caution in an unfamiliar area of operation, improper installation or maintenance of hull, machinery or equipment, poor judgment, recklessness, overpowering the boat, panic, proceeding in an unseaworthy craft, operating a motorboat near persons in the water, starting the engine with clutch engaged or throttle advanced, or irresponsible boat handling (such as quick, sharp turns).

FIBERGLASS (PLASTIC) HULL - Hulls of fiber-reinforced plastic. The laminate consists of two basic components, the reinforcing material (glass filaments) and the plastic or resin in which it is embedded.

FIRE/EXPLOSION (FUEL) - Accidental combustion of vessel fuel, liquids (including their vapors) or other substances such as wood or coal.

FIRE/EXPLOSION (OTHER) - Accidental burning or explosion of any material on board except vessel fuels or their vapors.

FLORIDA INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY - The Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway from the Georgia state line north of Fernandina to Miami, the Port of Canaveral lock and canal to the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway; the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, Miami to Key West; the Okeechobee Waterway, Stuart to Fort Myers; the St. Johns River, Jacksonville to Sanford; the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Anclote to Fort Myers; the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Carrabelle to Tampa Bay; Carrabelle to Anclote open bay section (using Gulf of Mexico); the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Carrabelle to the Alabama state line west of Pensacola; and the Apalachicola, Chattahoochee, and Flint Rivers in Florida.

FLOODING - Filling with water, regardless of method on ingress, but retaining sufficient buoyancy to remain on the surface.

FUELING - Any stage of the fueling operation, primarily concerned with introduction of explosive or combustible vapors or liquids on board.

GROUNDING - Running aground of a vessel, striking or pounding on rocks, reefs, or shoals; "stranding."

IMPROPER LOADING - Loading, including weight shifting of the vessel causing instability, limited maneuverability, or dangerously reduced freeboard.

INBOARD/OUTBOARD - Also referred to as inboard/outdrive. Regarded as inboard because the power unit is located inside the boat and has a stern mounted propulsion unit.

MANEUVERING - Changing of course, speed, or similar boat handling action during which a high degree of alertness is required or the boat is imperiled because of the operation (docking).

MOTORBOAT - (1) Any vessel which is propelled or powered by machinery and which is used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water. (2) Any vessel equipped with propulsion machinery, not more than 65 feet in length.

MOTOR VESSEL - Any vessel equipped with propulsion machinery (other than steam) more than sixty-five feet in length.

NAVIGATION RULES - The International Navigation Rules Act of 1977 for vessels on waters outside of established navigation lines of demarcation as specified in 33 C.F.R., Part 80 or the Inland Navigation Rules Act of 1980 for vessels on all waters not outside of such lines of demarcation.

NONRESIDENT - A citizen of the United States who has not established residence in this state and has not continuously resided in this state for 1 year and in one county for the 6 months immediately preceding the initiation of a vessel titling or registration action.

NO PROPER LOOK-OUT - No proper watch, the failure of the operator to perceive danger because no one was serving as look-out, or the person so serving failed in that regard.

NUMBERED VESSEL - An undocumented vessel numbered by a state with a numbering system approved by the United States Coast Guard under Chapter 123, Title 46, U.S.C.

OPEN MOTORBOAT - Craft of open construction specifically built for operating with a motor, including boats canopied or fitted with temporary partial shelters.

OPERATE - To be in charge of or in command of or in actual physical control of a vessel upon the waters of this state, or to exercise control over or to have responsibility for a vessel's navigation or safety while the vessel is underway upon the waters of this state, or to control or steer a vessel being towed by another vessel upon the waters of this state.

OWNER - A person, other than a lien holder, having the property in or title to a vessel. The term includes a person entitled to the use or possession of a vessel subject to an interest in another person, reserved or created by agreement and securing payment of performance of an obligation, but the term excludes a lessee under a lease not intended as security.

OUTBOARD - An engine not permanently affixed to the structure of the craft, regardless of the method or location used to mount the engine; e.g., motor wells, Akicker pits,@ motor pockets, etc.

OVERLOADING - Excessive loading of the vessel causing instability, limited maneuverability, dangerously reduced freeboard, etc.

PERSONAL WATERCRAFT - A vessel less than 16 feet in length which uses an inboard motor powering a water jet pump as its primary source of motive power and which is designed to be operated by a person sitting, standing, or kneeling on the vessel, rather than in the conventional manner of sitting or standing inside the vessel.

RECKLESS OPERATION - A person is guilty of reckless operation of a vessel who operates any vessel, or manipulates any water skis, aquaplane, or similar device, in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property at a speed or in a manner as to endanger, or likely to endanger, life or limb, or damage the property of, or injure any person.

REGISTRATION - A state operating license on a vessel which is issued with an identifying number, an annual certificate of registration, and a decal designating the year for which a registration fee was paid.

REPORTABLE BOATING ACCIDENT - A boating accident that results in personal injury requiring medical treatment beyond immediate first aid, death, disappearance of any person from on board under circumstances which indicate the possibility of death or injury, or damage to any vessel or other property in an apparent aggregate amount of at least $500.

RESIDENT - A citizen of the United States who has established residency in this state and has continuously resided in this state for 1 year and in one county for the 6 months immediately preceding the initiation of a vessel titling or registration action.

RULES OF THE ROAD -The Inland and International Navigation Rules for the prevention of collision at sea.

SAILBOAT OR AUXILIARY SAILBOAT - (1) Any vessel whose sole source of propulsion is the natural element (i.e., wind). (2) Craft intended to be propelled primarily by sail, regardless of size or type.

SINKING - Losing enough buoyancy to settle below the surface of the water.

SPEEDING - Operating at a speed, possibly below the posted speed limit, above that which a reasonable and prudent person would operate under the circumstances.

STEEL HULL - Hulls of sheet steel or steel alloy, not those of steel ribs and wood, canvas, or plastic hull coverings.

STRUCK BY BOAT OR PROPELLER - Striking of a victim who is outside of the boat, but not necessarily a swimmer.

SWAMPING - Filling with water, particularly over the side, but retaining sufficient buoyancy to remain on the surface.

TOWING - Engaged in towing any vessel, fishing gear, or object other than a person.

WOOD HULL - Hulls of plywood, molded plywood, wood planking, or any other wood fiber in its natural consistency, including those of wooden construction that have been "sheathed" with fiberglass or sheet metal.

VESSEL - Is synonymous with boat as referenced in s.1(b), Article VII of the State Constitution and includes every description of watercraft, barge, and air boat, other than a seaplane on the water, used or capable of being used as means of transportation on water.

Chieftain Training

RYA & STCW Courses – Sail, Power, Super-Yacht & Workboat

The difference between Powerboat and Motorboat Training

In the RYA training world we often talk about Powerboat Training ( Level 1 , Level 2 , Intermediate , Tender Operator and Advanced ) and Motor Cruising Course s ( Helmsman’s , Day Skipper Power , Coastal Skipper Power and Yachtmaster Power ).

What is the difference between a Powerboat and a Motorboat?

We are often asked this question. There is no exact definition, so we have produced some guidance;

Powerboat or Motorboat?

There are of course some boats that sit on the cusp between a powerboat and a motorboat, here are a couple of examples.

At first glance the Axopar has some of the features common to powerboats, it looks like a large powerboat. It is 8.5m and powered by petrol outboard engines. However if we look closer we see it has cabin space, can sleep two people, has a heads (toilet), a nav area and can be used as a live aboard boat for a few days. On balance we would consider this more of a motorboat. If asked to deliver own boat tuition we would discuss what the owner wants to do with the boat but would be more likley to  recommend the   Helmsman’s and Day Skipper Power courses for the owner.

Bayliner VR5

This Bayliner has a small forward cabin with a berth which will sleep two, however it does not have a galley, it is an open boat and while it has some traits of a motor boat we consider it a powerboat and suitable for the RYA Powerboat Level 2 .

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Insider: 12 months after a horrific season, Meyer Shank has best open seat in IndyCar

A year ago, Mike Shank’s multi-discipline racing program was toiling in mediocrity and uncertainty.

Shank had just signed his star IMSA driver to a multi-year deal in IndyCar . He was undecided on who’d man his other full-time seat as Meyer Shank Racing started from scratch after veterans Helio Castroneves and Simon Pagenaud struggled to achieve what the veterans were brought in to do: Take MSR to the next level.

MSR would eventually lose its factory-backed IMSA GTP program with Acura. The team was also weeks away from losing one of its two IndyCar Leaders Circle spots for 2024 – and the $1 million funding that comes with it. And in the midst of all that, Shank continued to deal internally with the aftermath of Pagenaud’s potential career-ending crash at Mid-Ohio that he calls “regrettable” and “that bums me out to this day.”

In IndyCar, he now puts simply, “We had no real speed for a variety of reasons. No good finishes. Nothing really going on. Last year was such a letdown in so many ways.

“We kinda knew we couldn’t stand still and knew we had to make some changes, so we did.”

IndyCar news: Josef Newgarden's late-race restart OK per IndyCar. Drivers disagree.

Twelve months later, Shank and co-owners Jim Meyer, Helio Castroneves and Liberty Media have pulled inarguably the biggest 180 in the paddock, in maybe the most competitive major racing series in the world. And with a dozen seats on the grid unconfirmed for 2025, Shank’s unafraid to boast that his – the No. 66 Honda – is the most coveted.

Few – if any – neutral parties in the paddock would argue with him.

Turning MSR into a top-5 title contender

Sitting with IndyStar on Saturday afternoon at World Wide Technology Raceway for an extensive, exclusive interview on the team’s last 12 months and its future, Shank – one of the series’ most emotive and easy-going team owners – was giddy with joy to drop a stat that he said would’ve left him dazed a year ago: Through 14 races (including Thermal), the team has qualified in the top-6 12 times .

MSR didn’t do so a single time in 2023.

“That’s incredible to me,” Shank told IndyStar on Saturday. “You can also say we haven’t finished very well, which is true, but to come from where we were to where we are now, we’ve made a 50% jump and certainly have room to do more.

“We’ve got speed in the cars, speed in the team and speed in the drivers. Now, the next step is to try and consistently finish where we want to finish.”

Insider: Felix Rosenqvist wants to stop wrecking cars and live up to his potential with MSR

The team’s new lead driver Felix Rosenqivst , in the first season of a new multi-year deal after three roller-coaster years at Arrow McLaren , finds himself in a fierce fight for a top-10 championship finish, currently sitting in a tie for 10th with four races left. A finish there, or higher, would mark MSR’s best title finish in its five full seasons in IndyCar (Jack Harvey, 13th in 2021). Coming to MSR with a self-admitted reputation for failing to finish races , Rosenqvist has hardly turned a wheel wrong all year. His three DNFs – 27th at the Indy 500, 26th in Iowa Race 2 and 23rd at Toronto – have come from a variety of mechanical failures.

Shank says finishing races, and finishing where MSR deserves to be, is now the next target for 2025, but after six top-10s in Rosenqvist’s first seven races with the team (including the non-points $1 Million Challenge), as well as some of the fastest short-oval cars in the series, the team’s co-owner feels that’s not too tall a task.

“There’s no reason Felix can’t be top 5 or top 6 (in the championship),” he said. “And whoever we (hire), we expect to be in the top 10 all the time, too. We need to feel pretty damn confident they can put it there.”

IndyCar points standings picture: Series championship points standings after St. Louis

Though six starts with David Malukas, including a 6th-place finish at Toronto and a race win-contending performance Saturday evening at WWTR, Shank says he “would’ve liked” for that to be Malukas. The 22-year-old signed a multi-year deal with AJ Foyt Racing for 2025 and beyond , catching Shank as off-guard as most of the rest of the paddock.

Despite highly publicized reports to the contrary, Shank asserts he had not extended Malukas a contract offer. “That doesn’t mean we weren’t going to,” he added. “But I just wasn’t ready at that minute. But when opportunity knocks, especially with all this franchise stuff that will eventually limit (teams) to what they can do, it’s like, ‘The music has stopped. What do I have?’

“The reality is with these kids, when they have opportunities with Chip (Ganassi) or with Roger (Penske), they’re going to do whatever they can do. And that’s what you’re looking at with Malukas. You can see what’s going on (given Team Penske’s technical alliance with Foyt). That doesn’t mean there’s a guarantee, but there’s a pathway.”

What MSR's technical alliance with Ganassi means for its future

MSR confirmed Monday, as had been rumored for weeks, its plans to switch technical partners within the Honda Racing Corp. family from Andretti Global to Chip Ganassi Racing in 2025. It further bolsters MSR’s open seat with the chance to work with the IndyCar team that has won three of the last four titles and who holds the current points lead with Alex Palou.

MSR’s move to CGR had been positioned by some in the paddock as a way to steer clear of the potential fallout, should Andretti swap IndyCar manufacturers after their current deal expires at the end of 2025. Already joined at the hip with General Motors in its quest to join the Formula 1 grid in the near-future, Andretti Global is also understood to be set to take over a pair of GM’s factory-backed Cadillac IMSA GTP programs for the 2025 season. With links already in place (via primary sponsorship from Gainbridge, whose parent company Group 1001 is run by Andretti Global co-owner Dan Towriss) in the NASCAR Cup series with Chevy-powered Spire Motorsports, a potential shift to the bowtie brand it won its last IndyCar title with in 2012 has been a frequent topic of speculation.

In multiple inquiries on the topic over the last month, IndyStar has been assured by Andretti Global COO Rob Edwards that the rumors are unfounded. In addition, Chevy’s IndyCar engineering program manager Rob Buckner told IndyStar last week that the engine manufacturer considers its 14 full-time entries (including the pair of additions for the incoming PREMA Racing team) “the maximum number of entries we can competitively support under the current series regulations intended through 2026.” Short of Chevy dropping one of its two three-car programs (Team Penske and Arrow McLaren) at the end of next season, there will be no room for Andretti for at least the next two years.

Shank wouldn’t divulge much on his motivations for the switch – for clarity’s sake, his interview took place before the deal was finalized – but he was willing to offer this as what would prove to be his guiding light moving forward: “We’re just positioning ourselves both business-wise and technically the best we can.”

With the potential of Ganassi trimming its five-car IndyCar program to four -- or even three -- entries in 2025, along with changes to its short-term sportscar endeavors, the alliance allows it to repurpose some of its best engineering minds onto a new project. Shank was clear to note, though, that he and Meyer retain the rights with this new deal to select the driver to run alongside Rosenqivst, despite some in the paddock’s suggestion of the contrary.

“The same way our current alliance (with Andretti Technologies) is structured, myself and Jim are selecting who drives our cars,” Shank said. “We run as an independent team, just like we always have.”

'Trying to keep our heads above water'

That decision in the coming weeks will weigh heavily on the team’s future, as it works to double its staff from under 50 to nearly 100 and waits to learn the fate of the future of its major sponsorship deal with AutoNation, as the car dealership chain mulls its future in the sport with MSR and Andretti amidst recent leadership changes. Should that program change, the team says it already has contingencies in place.

The playbook for success continues to be ever-changing at MSR, but the field of play looks starkly different than it did a year ago – in the best of ways.

“We’re so overwhelmed with the work for this new project in IMSA that we’re just trying to keep our heads above water,” Shank said, in rejecting suggestions MSR would run a third full-time IndyCar entry in 2025. “What we’ve got is a handful. We need to focus on the racing side of this.

“It’s about having people to do the damn work and do it at a high level.”

Large Industrial Electric Motor Specialists

Understanding NEMA Motor Enclosure Types

• Posted on August 6, 2023
• Updated on August 6, 2023

Have you ever noticed the different types of enclosures that surround electric motors? The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) has established over 20 different enclosure types under their MG1 standards, which categorize motors as open, totally enclosed, or sealed windings designs. These many NEMA-defined enclosure types cover motors for various operating environments, protection levels, and exposure to contact, debris, moisture and hazards. In this article, we’ll cover the most commonly used enclosure types, and teach you how to identify them based off of looks.

What Are Motor Enclosures?

Motor enclosures refer to the type of protective casing that surrounds an electric motor. This is what protects the important components from debris, or inclement weather.

When selecting an electric motor for an application, one important consideration is the motor’s enclosure type. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) has standardized enclosure types to classify the various constructions and protective housings used on motors.

Knowing the differences between NEMA motor enclosure types will help you choose a motor suitable for its operating environment. This overview covers the common NEMA motor enclosure designs:

Open Motors

Open motors, as the name implies, have no housing or protective cover. Open (O) enclosures have no housing and the motor will have exposed components. They provide no protection, which allows for maximum ventilation.

The interior components are fully exposed. This design provides no protection from contact or debris, but allows for maximum ventilation and heat dissipation.

Open construction is very uncommon, limited only to specialized applications.

Enclosed Motors

Enclosed motors have a protective housing surrounding the stator and rotor. The housing blocks direct contact and helps keep dirt and debris out of the internal motor components.

Enclosures may include fan cowlings, screens, and sealed covers for further protection. Common enclosed motor types include:

• Totally enclosed (TE): Surrounds internal parts to prevent entrance of dust, contact, moisture.
• TEFC: Totally enclosed, fan-cooled motors use shrouds and fans for forced airflow cooling.
• TEAO: Totally enclosed air-over motors rely on the movement of external air for cooling.
• TEWAC: Totally enclosed water-air-cooled motors use heat exchangers to allow both air and liquid cooling.
• Drip-proof (DP): Prevents falling drops of liquid from entering. Allows airflow for ventilation.
• Weather protected (WP): Additional protection from ingress of rain, snow, splashing water.

What is a TEFC Motor?

TEFC stands for “totally enclosed, fan cooled” and is a type of electric motor enclosure. TEFC motors are completely surrounded by a housing that seals internal components from outside elements and contaminants.

Cooling fans mounted on the external housing circulate air through the enclosure to remove heat from the inside of the motor.

What is a TEAO Motor?

TEAO stands for “totally enclosed air over” and is a type of electric motor enclosure. TEAO motors are fully surrounded by sealed housings that rely on the passage of external air for cooling.

The housing blocks dirt and moisture but has ventilation openings that allow outside air to flow over the frame and cool the enclosed motor.

What is a TEWAC Motor?

TEWAC stands for “totally enclosed water-air cooled” and is a type of electric motor enclosure. TEWAC motors use heat exchangers that allow both air and liquid to pass through the sealed housing to cool the motor.

This dual cooling method makes TEWAC motors suitable for very high temperature environments that require additional cooling beyond standard air circulation.

What is a Weather Protected (WP) Motor?

WP stands for weather protected. This is an enclosure which protects the motor from the (you guessed it) weather conditions. There are two types of weather protected motors: WP1 and WP2.

WP1 motors have an enclosure that provides protection from drops of liquid or light splashing. These “weather protected type 1” motors can handle occasionally moist or wet environments but not continuous exposure.

WP2 motors feature an enclosure that goes beyond WP1 and gives additional sealing against rainfall, snow, and windblown dust. These weather protected type 2 motors can withstand wetter outdoor environments with moderate moisture and precipitation.

Hazardous Location Motors

Where potentially explosive vapors or combustible dusts are present, special hazardous location motors must be used. These motors are carefully designed and constructed to contain sparks and prevent ignition. Common hazardous location motor types include:

• Explosion-proof: Designed to contain internal ignition while operating normally.
• Dust-ignition-proof: Prevent ignition of exterior dust layers on the motor.
• Non-sparking: Use specialized windings and electronics to avoid sparks.
• Waterproof – Protects from submersion or high pressure water spray.

The particular hazardous environment and associated electrical codes determine which construction is required.

What is the Purpose of an Enclosure?

A motor enclosure refers to the housing, cover, or protective casing surrounding the core components of an electric motor. The main purposes of a motor enclosure are:

• Protect internal parts – Keep dirt, debris, moisture, and other contaminants away from the motor windings, rotor, and electrical connections. Prevents damage to core components.
• Prevent contact – The enclosure provides a barrier so external objects and fingers/appendages cannot contact dangerous moving or electrically live parts. Improves safety.
• Contain noise/vibrations – Enclosures help dampen the operational noise and vibration levels of an electric motor.
• Facilitate cooling – Many enclosures include dedicated air circulation paths, fans, ventilation openings, or heat exchangers to help remove heat from the motor.
• House accessories – Enclosures provide space for additional components like control boards, sensors, terminal boxes, cooling fans and conduit connections.
• Protect environment – A sealed enclosure prevents oil leaks and traps any potential sparks, explosive gases, or dangerous particles emanating from the motor.
• Mounting – The enclosure often includes brackets, feet, flanges or other means to facilitate securing the motor to floors, walls or machinery.

Summary – Different NEMA Enclosures For Motors

Understanding the strengths and limitations of different NEMA enclosures allows matching the appropriate motor design to the expected operating conditions. Consider ventilation requirements, expected contaminants, hazardous gas or dust risks, and moisture exposure when selecting a motor enclosure type.

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Copyright 2023. Heartland Motors, INC. Owned by Joey O’Day

Broken Jersey Shore bridge will be stuck open for weeks as workers scramble to find parts

• Updated: Aug. 21, 2024, 1:12 a.m.
• | Published: Aug. 20, 2024, 6:56 a.m.

A motor failure forced officials to close the Middle Thorofare Bridge, which is also called the Two Mile Bridge, to all car, bike and pedestrian traffic early Sunday morning, local and county officials said. Matt Dowling | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

• Brianna Kudisch | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

The bridge between Wildwood Crest and Lower Township in Cape May County that was abruptly closed over the weekend will be shut down for “many weeks,” county officials said.

A motor failure forced officials to close the Middle Thorofare Bridge, which is also called the Two Mile Bridge, to all car, bike and pedestrian traffic early Sunday morning, Wildwood Crest Mayor Don Cabrera said over the weekend.

“The bridge has a total failure of the drive shaft motor used to open the bridge on demand, which failed at 10 a.m. on Saturday,” Cape May County officials said in a statement.

“The bridge electrical engineers performed many tests, concluding that the motor was inoperable and irreparable,” county officials said. “The Bridge Commission is currently reviewing all options available both nationally and globally to source this highly specialized motor with the goal of replacement as soon as possible, with the best-case scenario is it taking many weeks.”

The bridge is now stuck in the upright position, which allows for commercial vessels to sail through, but makes the bridge impassible to cars, Cabrera said previously.

The state Department of Transportation referred a request for comment to the Cape May County Bridge Commission, which owns and operates the bridge.

NJ Advance Media staff writer Katie Kausch contributed to this report.

Brianna Kudisch may be reached at [email protected] .

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What is a Jon Boat? Its Main Uses. Pros & Cons

The Jon boat has been a popular mode of fresh water transportation and has continued to gain traction as a great fishing and hunting vessel across the entire country since its first introduction in the 19th Century. But why is the Jon boat so popular and what exactly sets it apart from other boats?

The main uses of a Jon boat

The amazing benefits of the flat bottom hull, a jon boat is a shallow water warrior, the jon is the ultimate small utility boat, a jon boat can be a great platform for water-based hunting, a jon boat is fantastic for freshwater fishing in shallow waters, planing a jon boat for a smooth fast ride is easy, lastly, jon boat offer exceptional value for money, discomfort comes as standard, jon boats offer only limited deck space, motorization is limited, jon boats are not designed for rough water, speed is available but it’s limited.

Why is a Jon boat called a Jon boat?

Motorized propulsion pros & cons

Advantages of an outboard motor, disadvantages of an outboard motor, advantages of using a mud motor, disadvantages of using a mud motor, advantages of using a trolling motor, disadvantages of using a trolling motor, manual propulsion pros & cons, advantages and disadvantages of jon boat vs skiff, advantages and disadvantages of jon boat vs bass boat, what is a jon boat.

A Jon boat is a lightweight, flat-bottomed utility vessel usually used on inland waters.

A Jon boat has a shallow draft and low freeboard so it can be used in very shallow waters.

It can be manually powered by paddle or oars and can be fitted with an outboard trolling motor.

Its unique hull design means a Jon boat is an excellent fishing, hunting, recreational and utility vessel for calm, shallow inland waters such as rivers, ponds, creeks and lakes .

Jon boats range from the very basic to the more substantial in regards to  size, construction material and level of equipment they utilize.

The most significant feature of a Jon boat is its flat-bottomed hull, a design that gives it a shallow draft allowing it to be used in very shallow water.

A Jon boat can be used to access areas where the water is only a few inches deep.

The Jon boat’s flat bottom hull also has the added advantage of offering great stability in calm waters such as lakes and inland waterways, at both speed and at standstill.

A Jon boat is a popular watercraft used for fishing, hunting, transportation, utility work and recreational activities.

As it has a flat bottom and shallow draft it is almost always used on inland waters.

For some, a boat is a necessary piece of equipment required to enable the user to carry out specific tasks, like transporting goods and passengers for example

For others a Jon boat is the best option to assist them in recreational pastimes such as fishing and hunting etc.

Either way, a Jon boat can be the ideal boat of choice for a variety of reasons.

But what exactly is a Jon boat and why has it become so popular with fishing enthusiasts, hunters and people who use the waterways for transporting goods?

A Jon boat is popular as an introductory boat for the beginner to acquire some elementary boating skills especially in narrow and/or shallow waters.

It is also the preferred craft for a number of sporting and hunting activities, recreational uses and transportation needs.

In short, a Jon boat is a basic, no frills utility boat.

It is popular because of its renowned versatility, low purchase and maintenance costs, its tough construction and its unique ability to traverse narrow shallow waterways.

It is also loved for its superior stability on calm water.

A Jon boat is a very adaptable, shallow draft boat that is extremely versatile with a vast range of uses.

They are typically small, inexpensive and lightweight boats usually manned by one or two people and are more often than not the perfect choice for leisure use especially in shallow waters.

Jon boats can be easily adapted for fishermen or water borne hunters, with the aid of some accessories, and for general transportation.

A Jon boat is usually constructed from wood, fiberglass, or more commonly from aluminum, and in most instances is built with a bench for the occupants to sit on.

These bench type seats double up as stiffeners to support the open hull.

Jon boats are produced by various manufacturers and are available in different sizes with various levels of finish and features.

Due to their simple construction however, DIY efforts can also produce equally sound vessels and many owners will also perform upgrades on their store-bought boats themselves.

The lightweight construction of a Jon boat, depending on material used, means a boat can weigh between 100 – 300 lbs.

This means it is easy for the smaller, lighter Jon boats to be manually lifted onto a vehicle’s roof rack by two people.

The larger and better equipped Jon boats (those closer to the 300 lb mark) can still be effortlessly moved on and off a trailer at the water’s edge single handed.

Not only are they easy to launch but because the boat and trailer’s combined weight is low, a Jon boat can be towed using a regular car.

For example, an unmodified 15-foot Jon boat weighs about 210lbs, a small boat trailer weighs around 150lbs – 200lbs and an outboard motor, with fuel and general accessories will weigh roughly another 150 lbs.

This is a total weight of around 560lbs which is well within most cars towing ability.

Various sizes of Jon boat are available that range in length from 8 – 20 feet although the mid-range boats are usually 10 – 15 feet in length.

The boat length will determine the type of waterway the boat is used in while the width or ‘beam’ of a Jon boat ranges from around 48 – 75 inches.

It should be noted that the wider the vessel, the more stable it is.

You can learn how to make a Jon boat more stable here .

Many owners will widen their boats themselves as a DIY project to increase the stability of the boat.

If you want a more detailed outline of what Jon boats are used for read this article .

Advantages Of A Jon Boat

A Jon boat has the following advantages:

• The flat bottom hull gives a Jon boat a district advantage over many other craft.
• A Jon boat is an excellent for shallow water conditions.
• Jon boats are the ultimate small shallow water utility vessel.
• A Jon boat is perfect for recreational day boating, fishing and hunting.
• Jon boats are lightweight and easy to handle in or out of the water.
• The design of a Jon boat means it’s easy to get on plane – thus offering high speed in comfort.
• These utility vessels are inexpensive with little running or maintenance costs.
• A Jon boat can be easily enhanced or customized to suit your exacting needs.
• The sturdy, robust construction ensures the longevity of a Jon boat (and offer great value for money).

Why the  Jon boat is so popular

So why has the Jon boat’s popularity on rivers , creeks, ponds and lakes remained constant, if not actually increased, in America?

Synonymous with Jon boats and their simple design is the flat hull which has become the boats recognizable feature.

The result of the flat-bottomed design enables Jon boats to easily access and traverse bodies of water where the depth is only a few inches deep.

This hull design has a relatively large beam (width of the hull at the waterline), which offers the boat great stability in calm waters.

The downside is that the flat bottom design doesn’t fare so well in choppy waters or in the open sea where it would be susceptible to capsizing in such conditions.

Given that the hull is flat, this means that the floor area within the boat is also flat.

A flat floor creates an unobstructed area for the crew to move around or for the storage of goods and equipment.

Anglers love to talk about ‘skinny water’ or the shallows which seem to add another dimension to their fishing experience.

Hunters too often find themselves chasing prey into shallow waters. It is in these situations where a Jon boat comes into its own

Having such a shallow draft, as a result of its flat-bottomed hull, the Jon boat is at home in mere inches of water depth.

For example, at the water’s edge, the shore can obscure hidden dangers to water craft on the river or lake floor such as boulders, hidden tree stumps and sand banks etc. all of which are treacherous ground for ‘V’ style hulls.

So, a flat bottom Jon boat is the perfect choice for traversing these types of potentially hazardous environments.

However, even if a Jon boat were to encounter such rough underwater terrain they are hardy enough to cope with most bumps and scrapes given their sturdy construction.

Of course, fishermen and hunters are not the only ones who will use a Jon boat. These all-round boats are renowned for their versatility.

They are also very customizable and as such they can become a formidable and serious contender to do the kind of water-based jobs larger vessels simply can’t.

With their unmatched durability, incredible lightness and rock-solid strength, the Jon boat has been used not only for fishing and hunting but for recreational holiday makers, water sports and even Jon boat racing.

They are known as “the workhorse of the waters”, often being used for the transportation of goods and for ferrying passengers across waterways.

Because they can be modified in an infinite number of ways, the Jon boat is arguably the ultimate American small utility boat.

Hunter types are cut from the same cloth as fishermen, they’re either talking about the sport or they’re in among the reeds, jostling the overhanging tree branches and going all commando in the shallow waters just to try to gain that extra inch to get closer to their prey.

Once again, a Jon boat can prove to be indispensable.

To a water-based hunter a Jon boat offers many advantages over other boat types for all the reasons listed above.

So, it goes without saying that the boat of choice used to accommodate these wilderness warriors is their beloved Jon boat.

A Jon boat is the perfect water-based platform to provide exactly what the intrepid hunter needs.

Prey that hide among the shoreline habitat or swamp root systems are accessible via a Jon boat because it offers stealth, silence and agility when required.

It’s clearly an advantage to a hunter to get as close to their prey as possible and a Jon boat offers that advantage.

Hunting can require a lot of gear and additional four-legged passengers. So be sure to know the weight capacity of your boat, as outlined here .

Because a Jon boat is a perfect tool for engaging in one of the world’s leading sport and pastimes i.e. fishing, it is often said that it was a fisherman who invented the Jon boat (though many would argue the point).

There is probably no two fishing Jon boats built the same way, given the vast array of accessories that fishermen use to customize their craft.

When a Jon boat is converted to a personal fishing boat it is built to accommodate the requirements of the individual and one that suits a specific fishing style.

Whether it’s shallow water bass fishing or angling in open waters, a Jon boat is without doubt, the real fishermen’s friend.

Jon boats are relatively inexpensive, robust and perfect for fishing in shallow waters.

For some basic instruction on how to handle a Jon boat and to learn a little more about boating in general, why not join a local boat club where they have the facilities to offer some tuition and boat hire.

It’s a great way to make a start in the boating world and gets you among like-minded fishermen and boating enthusiasts.

Flat bottom Jon boats are also the perfect choice for allowing a fairly small outboard motor to accelerate the boat to the point where it is planing .

Planing occurs when the bow of the boat initially rises out of the water when engine power is applied before settling down. Then the rear of the flat hull rides on the surface of the water (like the Jon boat in the featured image below).

The term planing could also be described as one where a vessel’s weight is supported by hydrodynamic forces, rather than by buoyancy.

It is said that a flat-bottomed hull, while planing, is more fuel efficient than V shaped or displacement type hulls travelling at the same speed.

The planing speed for Jon boats varies from boat to boat according to several factors such as:

• The the size of the boat
• The size of the motor propelling it
• The boat’s laden weight.

In calm waters a Jon boat offers an exceptionally smooth ride even at speed.

In choppy waters too much speed however, and the safety of the crew and the boat are brought into question.

If there are choppy waves the boat will skip across the water’s surface at very high speeds.

This will not only make for a less comfortable ride but will also increase potential safety concerns.

The hull will slap against the water which may stress it to the point of failure or cause the boat to start taking on water.

So it’s important that an apt engine size to boat size ratio is observed.

So, an apt engine size to boat size ratio is strongly advised.

Note: A boat should display a capacity plate (a plate that displays the maximum horsepower rating) for the boat. The motor you use should never exceed this rating.

Jon boats can be easily customized

The simple design of the Jon boat lends itself to easy modification.

In fact, it is so easy to customize this boat that many boaters can convert a jon boat to a bass boat with relative ease.

Jon boats are fairly cheap (see our Jon boat cost guide ) to buy and maintain.

But, the fact that they are very long-lasting just adds to their value for money.

Disadvantages Of A Jon Boat

With pros come cons. Nothing is perfect and the Jon boat is no exception. Below are some of the disadvantages a Jon boat offers the user.

• Uncomfortable and cramped when used over long periods of time
• Limited amount of space for onboard storage
• Motorization can only come from a rolling motor.
• Unstable in rough water and open sea
• Speed limitations

Jon boats popularity is down to its simple design that allows it to be a ‘jack of all trades’. So it’s easy to see why they’re commonly used by individuals and groups for an array of different watery adventures.

Jon boats lack any mod cons and are a far cry from the type of flat bottom luxury vessels that you sometimes see in similar inland waters.

Where a pontoon boat has the same type of shallow draft as a Jon boat, a Jon has none of the trappings of comfort that the pontoon boat has.

Jons are simple utility vessels, built for purpose rather than comfort.

Low prices and a focus on basic utility needs means something has to suffer. In the case of the Jon boat it’s space.

Where larger flat bottom skiffs will have plenty of deck space and enough room for plenty of fishing and hunting gear, you will need to be more reserved in your gear choices on a Jon boat – especially if you have passengers.

Sure you can get a good bit of speed out of a Jon boat when you get the boat on plane but as far as motor power goes, you are limited.

Only weaker trolling motors can be mounted on Jon boats as higher-powered outboard motors would overwhelm these little vessels.

Where a skiff or bigger boat can be fitted with a powerful outboard motor, that is controlled via a center console and steering wheel, a Jon boat will be propelled and steered by a tiller controlled trolling motor.

Of course there are mods you can add to give you central control over the motor most Jon boat owners are stuck at the stern with a hand on teh tiller.

No matter what you read online – Jon boats are not safe in rough water ! And, only under very strict conditions can they be used in the ocean .

Now, that is not to say that you cannot take your Jon boat out into saltwater lakes.

You can, as long as you give the boat proper protection against galvanic corrosion – see our guide to using a Jon boat in salt water .

When you get on plant on a Jon boat you can increase the boat’s speed to the max of the motor.

The ride will be smooth. But, although it will feel fast, those speeds are nothing compared to skiffs and other boats powered by big outboard motors.

The name “Jon boat” has contentious roots as its true origin is unknown.

Some say the name was derived from the Scandinavian man’s name ‘Jon’, as this was a very common personal name among people who used this type of boat.

Another theory of the ‘Jon boat’ name states that it originated from the use of the Jack pine timber used in the construction of the boats and over time ‘Jack’ became ‘John’.

The problem with many current theories is that they don’t really seem very plausible – especially the one that involves Jack pine.

As Jack is a common name in English speaking communities it seems unlikely that the name Jack would be replaced by the name Jon, especially considering this is not a common spelling of the name (with “John” being favored by most people).

If the boat had been named after its construction material then it is much more likely it would have been called a “jack boat. So it is unlikely that name would have changed for the aforementioned reasons.

The more plausible of the most popular theories is the Scandinavian one.

Fishermen of this northern European region used Jon boats to haul gear and fish to their larger fishing vessels.

However, Jon is pronounced as ‘Yawn’ in the Scandinavian language, so many people think that the boat would have been called a “yawn boat” if this was its true origin of the name.

However it is not a stretch of the imagination to believe that English language speaking people would changed the name “yawn” to “Jon”.

A much less likely theory for the name Jon boat comes from suggestions that ‘Yawn’ was an old American slang word synonymous with describing just about anything that either didn’t have a name or that had a name that was too difficult to pronounce.

Thus, because the boat had no name it was called a “yawn boat” which eventually evolved into “Jon boat” over time.

Jon Boat Propulsion Types: Pros And Cons

For a Jon boat to be a successful utility craft it requires a versatile source of propulsion.

One propulsion type will better suit one activity while another may be preferred to a different type of activity.

Common types of propulsion used for Jon boats are:

• Outboard motors .
• Mud Motors.
• Trolling Motors.
• Non-mechanical types of propulsion such as oars , push poles and paddles.

Let’s look at these in more detail starting with the types of motor most commonly used on a Jon boat.

The most popular form of propulsion for a Jon boat is an outboard motor.

The type of motor used on a Jon boat is dependent on a variety of factors. These factors include, the size of the boat and expected pay load, the environment the boat is to be used in and the distances the boat is expected to cover etc.

Outboard motors are usually gas powered (although there are also propane and electric motors) and produce thrust through their propeller to propel the boat forward.

The amount of thrust required to sufficiently propel a boat will be dependent on the amount of energy the engine can impart on to the propeller.

An outboard engine’s output is measured in horse power (HP) units.

The larger the engine the greater the thrust.

Outboard motors are designed to attach to the transom and provide steering control through a pivot in the mounting mechanism.

• Good power to weight ratio
• Good for high speeds and cruising
• Detachable – good for servicing, winterizing and storage
• Clears deck space
• Require maintenance and servicing
• Running costs

Mud motor pros and cons

Mud motors are designed primarily for swamps and marsh type environments and for waterways and wetlands that would pose a threat to outboard motors.

Mud motors are similar to outboard motors in the fact they are gas motors mounted on the transom and they drive a propeller.

However, the drive to the propeller is much longer, the purpose of which is to set the propeller much closer to the surface of the water so it avoids potential hazards.

This design allows the prop to bounce off unseen underwater hazards such as tree stumps, rocks, heavy vegetation and logs etc.

So, mud motors can power a flat bottom boat in what, was once considered, the most hazardous of waterways.

• Good for swamp and marsh environments
• Very robust
• Simple design
• Low running costs
• Slower than outboards
• No reverse gear

Trolling motor pros & cons

Trolling motors are generally electric, bow mounted outboard motors (although gas powered trolling motors are available for larger vessels).

These motors are typically used for maneuvering flat bottom boats in shallow water or when stealth is required when hunting (due to their silent running).

The motor is mounted within a sealed unit with a direct drive to the propeller and is regulated via tiller mounted controls or foot controls.

Trolling motors range from 12 volts to 36 volts and are powered by 12 volt marine batteries.

• Good for silent running
• Relatively inexpensive
• Good for very shallow waters
• Foot controls keep both hands free
• Heavy batteries
• Limited use due to battery life

Other means to propel a Jon boat are of course oars, paddles and a push pole.

Equipment that is available to aid manual propulsion should always be kept onboard to offer an element of safety should a mechanical failure occur.

Keep in mind that having some form of manual propulsion such as oars, paddles or a dedicated ‘push pole’, like that found on a gondola  can be very handy.

A pole is great for swamp use as sometimes it is necessary to move through very dense vegetation which could pose a problem to a motor.

Not only that but oars, paddles and push poles are also very useful for avoiding obstacles or for freeing the craft if it becomes marooned on sandbanks or rocks.

They are also useful if you find yourself in water that is just too shallow, even for a flat-bottomed Jon boat.

Comparison With 2 Similar Boats

Let’s take a quick look at the advantages and disadvantages of a Jon boat compared to two other popular shallow water vessels.

“Skiff” is an old term that was used to describe a small two-man row boat with a pointy bow, also called row boats or dinghies.

Several modern manufacturers have taken the name skiff and put it on all their boats as a brand and this has confused the market.

Most ‘skiffs’ are different sized fiberglass Jon boats.

Read our battle of the boats article Jon boat vs skiff .

You will find a large amount of compelling evidence for both pro’s and con’s when comparing one boat to another.

The main question that seems to attract a lot of attention is, which is better between a Jon boat vs a Bass boat .

However, making a comparison between a Jon and a Bass boat is a bit like comparing a flatbed truck to a sports car.

Jon boats are simplistic boats that can become much more sophisticated when accessories are added to them or when they are customized for a very specific use.

A Bass boat on the other hand, is a dedicated boat built for bass fishing , or other panfish fishing. It is usually only kitted out with the equipment necessary for fishing.

Unlike a Jon boat which has multiple uses.

Bass boats also provide some comfort built-in for the fishermen such as swivel chairs, ample storage space and livewells (aerated water storage areas for live fish) as well as open, flat deck areas.

Jon boats can easily be converted into Bass-type boats though by adding a few necessary components specifically designed for fishing.

Purpose built Bass boats are more expensive than Jon boats which is the primary reason most people convert their Jon boat to a Bass boat.

The transformation costs are low and the upgrade is fairly easy to do.

Mick McGrath

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Motor Enclosures

The selection of a motor enclosure depends upon the ambient and surrounding conditions. The two general classifications of motor enclosures are open and totally enclosed. An open motor has ventilating openings which permit passage of external air over and around the motor windings. A totally enclosed motor is constructed to prevent the free exchange of air between the inside and outside of the frame. but not sufficiently enclosed to be termed air-tight.

These two categories are further broken down by enclosure design, type of insulation, and/or cooling method. The most common of these types are listed below.

• Open Drip-proof - An open motor in which all ventilating openings are so constructed that drops of liquid or solid particles falling on the motor at any angle from 0 to 15 degrees from vertical cannot enter the machine. This is the most common type and is designed for use in non-hazardous relatively clean, industrial areas.
• Encapaulated - A drip-proof motor with the stator windings completely surrounded by a protective coating. An encapsulated motor offers more resistance to moisture and/or corrosive environments than an ODP motor.
• Totally Enclosed, Fan-Cooled - A enclosed motor equipped for external cooling by means of a fan integral with the motor, but external to the enclosed parts. TEFC motors are designed for use in extremely wet, dirty, or dusty areas.
• Explosion-Proof, Dust-Ignition-Proof - An enclosed motor whose enclosure is designed to withstand an explosion of a specified dust, gas, or vapor which may occur within the motor and to prevent the ignition of this dust, gas, or vapor surrounding the motor. A motor manufacturer should be consulted regarding the various classes and groups of explosion-proof motors available and the application of each.

Motor insulation is classified according to the total allowable temperature. This is made up of a maximum ambient temperature plus a maximum temperature rise plus allowances for hot spots and service factors. Class B insulation is the standard and allows for a total temperature of 13O deg.C. The maximum ambient is 40 deg. C, and the temperature rise is 70 deg. C, for ODP motors and 75 deg. C for TEFC motors.