Common Types Of Boats and Personal Watercraft

Runabout

• This type of boat is typically used for day boating trips. The engine is a standard size motor used for recreational boating, fishing, waterskiing and wake boarding. The hulls are typically a vee or semi-vee. Runabouts typically have an open bow or a small cabin in the front of the boat with sleeping quarters.

PWC or Personal Watercraft

• Personal Watercraft (PWCs, Jet Skis, Waverunners) are typically water-jet-pump driven boats shorter than 13 feet in length. They come in a variety of sizes and can accommodate up to four people. Some may have the power to pull a water skier, tuber or wake boarder.

Jet Boat

• Similar to personal watercraft, jet boats are powered by water-jet- pumps. Typically they will be less than 18 feet in length and may have a capacity of up to seven people.

Cabin Cruiser

• Cabin cruisers have a head and a galley. This is not to be confused with the runabout with a cuddy cabin. A cabin cruiser is typically much larger than a day boat with a cuddy cabin; usually cabin cruisers exceed 27 feet in length.

Fishing Boat

• Boats designed with the primary purpose of fishing in mind. This can include sport fishing boats and center console boats.

Bass Boat

• Normally Bass boats are low in profile; they may be equipped with special seats designed for fishing. It may also include features to make fishing easier like a fish cleaning station or built-in tackle boxes.

House Boat

• Typically houseboats are designed to move slowly and have a flat bottom. They will be equipped with a full galley, enclosed head, and sleeping berths. It's important to let your agent know if you are using your houseboat as a full-time residence.

Sail Boat

• If your boat uses at least one sail for power it is defined as a sailboat. It may also have a motor to be used as an additional power source.