Different Types of Boats You Can Buy

Akash Shakya
13 Aug , 2020

 Different Types of Boats You Can Buy

 Different Types of Boats You Can Buy

Did you know that every year, around 30,000 new boats are registered in Australia? If you want to become a boatie like the other million Aussies with access to boats each year, you'll need to know what to look for. 

Read on to learn about some of the different types of boats available.

Inflatable Boats

There are two types of inflatable boats: a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) or a roll-up inflatable. Beyond those categories, there are also air-deck, slat, sport, and rigid-hull inflatable boats. 

Air-deck inflatable boats are lightweight and easy to transport and they also have a soft air-filled floor that's big enough for up to five people. In addition, they're easy to store and clean, so if space is at a premium, they're a smart option. 

A slat inflatable boat can be rolled up and stored away as well. They're lightweight and compact and can be assembled quickly and easily. They're a great option for short trips or as tender boats.  

Aluminum Boats

There are many different aluminum boats to choose from. Aluminum boats are made from pressed aluminum, which provides for lightweight construction. 

Different types of aluminum boats include: 

  • Open boats
  • Runabouts
  • Console boats
  • Bowriders
  • Cuddy cabins

If you plan to use your boat in calm waters like a river or lake, presses aluminum is the best choice. However, if you want a bigger boat or plan to use it for offshore, coastal, or bay boating, you'll want a plate aluminum boat. This is what most commercial fishing boats and ferry boats are made out of. 

Poly/Composite Boats

These boats are often used as tenders for larger boats or for fishing boats. Their construction is light and durable and as an added bonus, they are recyclable when they are no longer usable. 

They are also safe. The double hull they are made with provides a backup if damage or a hole happens to the outer hull. The inner hull provides enough flotation that the boat would be able to make it to safety. 

Kayaks

Kayaks are growing in popularity and for good reason. It's a tremendous workout and gives you access to areas that you wouldn't normally be able to get to. No motor means that fish and other wildlife aren't scared away, so you might even see more of them while kayaking. 

Whether you're looking for a tandem kayak, sit-in or sit-on-top kayak, or an inflatable one, we've got something for you.

Canoes

A canoe is similar to a kayak in that you row it with an oar. Rather than a double-bladed paddle that you use with a kayak, you use a single-bladed paddle and either sit or kneel to row the boat. 

Also a great workout, a canoe gives you access to areas you wouldn't otherwise get to and gives you more opportunity to see wildlife, as it also doesn't have a motor. 

Which Type of Boat Is Right for You?

Now that you know a little more about the different types of boats out there, you can make an educated decision on what type you want to buy to become a boatie. 

Check out our selection of new and used boats and our buyer tips to make sure you get exactly what you want.