Expert Tips on Boat Types, Size, Budget & Key Considerations.
Buying a boat is exciting—but with so many types and options out there, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. The perfect boat depends on how you plan to use it, how many people you’ll bring aboard, where you’ll boat, and of course, your budget.
At BuoyMart, we help boaters of all experience levels find the right gear—and that starts with having the right boat. Here’s our expert guide to help you choose a boat that fits your lifestyle and needs.
Determine Your Intended Use
Start by asking yourself how you plan to use the boat. Different boats are designed for different activities, and choosing the right style will ensure you get the most enjoyment out of your investment.
Common Boating Activities & Boat Types:
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Fishing: Center consoles, bay boats, bass boats
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Watersports (wakeboarding, tubing): Bowriders, ski boats, jet boats
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Family cruising & day boating: Deck boats, pontoons, bowriders
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Overnight cruising: Cabin cruisers, trawlers, sailboats
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Long-distance cruising: Trawlers, motor yachts, sailboats
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Offshore adventures: Center consoles, express cruisers, sportfishing boats
Tip: Be realistic about how you’ll use the boat 80% of the time, not just for occasional "dream" trips.
Consider Size & Capacity
The size of your boat affects where you can go, how many people you can bring, storage options, and operating costs.
Key Factors to Consider:
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Passenger capacity: How many family members or friends will typically join you?
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Water type: Lakes and rivers call for different boats than ocean or offshore cruising.
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Storage & towing: Do you have space to store a boat at home or at a marina? Do you need a trailerable boat?
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Handling: Larger boats offer more comfort and range but require more skill to operate and maintain.
Popular Size Ranges:
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Under 20 feet: Great for lakes, rivers, trailering, and beginners
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20-30 feet: Ideal for family day trips, nearshore fishing, and light cruising
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30+ feet: Suitable for extended cruising, offshore trips, and larger groups
Define Your Budget
It’s important to factor in total cost of ownership, not just the purchase price.
Costs to Consider:
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Initial boat price (new or used)
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Sales tax, registration, insurance
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Maintenance and repairs
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Storage (marina fees, trailer, dry stack)
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Fuel and operating costs
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Accessories and upgrades (electronics, safety gear, comfort features)
Tip: Start with a realistic budget, then prioritize the features that matter most to you. Buying used can be a smart way to stretch your budget on a larger or better-equipped boat.
Think About Comfort & Features
Beyond basic functionality, think about what will make your time on the water more enjoyable:
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Seating configuration: Enough comfortable seats for family and guests
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Shade & protection: Bimini tops, hardtops, cabins
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Storage: For gear, coolers, and water toys
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Electronics: GPS, fishfinder, sound system
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Head (toilet): Essential for longer outings or family trips
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Galley/kitchen: For cooking meals on board
Tip: Test drive different models whenever possible to see what feels right—layout and comfort can make a big difference in day-to-day enjoyment.
Assess Maintenance & Ownership Needs
Different boats require different levels of maintenance. Before committing, think about how much time and effort you want to invest:
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Aluminum boats: Lightweight, durable, easy to tow and maintain
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Fiberglass boats: Stylish, smooth-riding, but more susceptible to cosmetic wear
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Outboard engines: Easier to service and replace than inboard engines
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Sailboats: Lower fuel costs but require sailing skills and rigging maintenance
Tip: If you’re new to boating, choose a boat that matches your skill level and maintenance comfort zone.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right boat is about finding the perfect balance between how you want to use the boat, what fits your budget, and what you’ll enjoy owning. Whether it’s a simple fishing skiff or a fully equipped cruiser, the right boat will open up a lifetime of memories on the water.
When you're ready to outfit your new boat with essential gear—from safety equipment to navigation tools to comfort upgrades—BuoyMart has you covered. Browse our full selection online or reach out to our team for personalized recommendations.
Smooth sailing and happy boating!
