Small boats offer an exciting way to get on the water without the big price tag and hassle of larger vessels. From peaceful fishing trips to thrilling water sports, these compact watercraft let you enjoy different activities while staying within your budget.
Choosing the right small boat matters because each type serves different needs – some work best for fishing, others excel at water sports, and certain models make perfect starter boats for new boaters.
When you’re new to boating, the many options can feel overwhelming at first. Small boats come in different sizes and styles, each with unique features that make them good at specific things.
Learning about the main types helps you pick one that matches what you want to do on the water.
1) Dinghy
A dinghy is a small boat that’s perfect if you want an easy way to get on the water. You can find dinghies in sizes under 15 feet long, making them super portable and simple to handle.
You have three main types to pick from. Inflatable dinghies are light and easy to store since you can deflate them. Rigid dinghies are made of solid materials like wood or fiberglass. Rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) combine both styles with hard bottoms and inflatable sides.
You can power your dinghy in different ways. Some people like using oars to row, while others attach small outboard motors. The choice depends on how you plan to use your boat.
Dinghies are great starter boats because they cost less than bigger vessels. You can use them for quick trips across the lake, as a tender for larger boats, or just for fun afternoon rides.
These boats work well in calm waters near the shore. You can easily launch them from the beach or a small dock, and they don’t need much depth to float.
2) Kayak
Kayaks are small, narrow boats that let you glide smoothly through the water. You sit in a cockpit or on top of the boat and use a double-bladed paddle to move forward.
You can choose between two main types of kayaks. Sit-inside kayaks have a cockpit that shields your lower body from water and weather. Sit-on-top kayaks let you perch on an open deck, making it easier to get on and off.
Most kayaks are 8 to 17 feet long and work great for solo adventures. You can find them made from plastic, fiberglass, or inflatable materials to match your needs and budget.
Kayaks work well for many water activities. You can use them for fishing, exploring rivers and lakes, or just enjoying a peaceful paddle. Their small size makes them easy to transport on your car’s roof rack.
These boats are perfect for beginners because they’re stable and simple to use. You’ll need minimal gear to get started – just a paddle, a life jacket, and your kayak.
3) Canoe
A canoe is a slim, light boat powered by paddles. You can enjoy this classic design on lakes, rivers, and calm coastal waters. The long, narrow shape helps you glide smoothly through the water.
Most canoes are 13 to 17 feet long and can fit 2 to 3 people. You’ll find them made from materials like aluminum, fiberglass, or wood. Each material has different benefits for durability and weight.
You can use canoes for fishing, boat camping trips, or peaceful afternoon rides. Their open tops make it easy to load gear and move around. Many people love canoes because they’re simple to transport on car roof racks.
These boats work best in calm waters. You’ll need some basic paddling skills to steer effectively. With practice, you can master the smooth, quiet movement that makes canoeing so peaceful.
Canoes cost less than many other boat types. You can find good used ones at reasonable prices. They also need very little maintenance – just keep them clean and store them properly.
4) Pontoon Boat
Pontoon boats bring comfort and stability to your time on the water. These flat-decked vessels rest on two or three metal tubes called pontoons that float on the surface, giving you a steady ride even with waves.
You’ll find plenty of space for your friends and family on a pontoon boat. Most small models can carry 8-10 people comfortably, with room for seats, coolers, and fishing gear.
These boats work great for relaxed activities like fishing, swimming, or just cruising around the lake. The wide, open deck lets you move around freely while the raised railings keep everyone safe.
Small pontoon boats typically range from 16 to 20 feet long. You can choose from basic models for casual outings or fancier versions with extras like built-in seats, storage compartments, and sun covers.
Driving a pontoon boat is pretty simple. The flat bottom makes them stable but means they move slower than other boats. Most small pontoons can reach speeds of 15-25 mph, perfect for casual lake trips.
5) Jon Boat
Michael Rivera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Jon boats are simple aluminum boats with a flat bottom and straight sides. You’ll find them commonly used for fishing and hunting in shallow waters.
These boats typically range from 10 to 20 feet long. The smaller ones are perfect for one or two people, while larger models can carry more passengers and gear.
You can spot a Jon boat by its basic design – usually just a hull, some bench seats, and a small motor. Their simple build makes them easy to maintain and repair.
Many hunters and anglers love Jon boats because they’re stable and can navigate in very shallow water. You can easily add fishing gear, trolling motors, or storage compartments to make them more useful.
These boats are among the most affordable options for getting on the water. Their lightweight design means you can transport them on a small trailer or even in the back of a pickup truck.
The flat bottom helps the boat stay steady when you’re casting a line or moving around. This design works best in calm waters like lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers.
6) Sailboat
Small sailboats are fun vessels that let you harness the power of the wind to glide across the water. You can find many models under 25 feet long that are perfect for beginners and weekend sailors.
Most small sailboats come with basic parts like a mast, rudder, and sails. You’ll also find models with either a keel or centerboard to help keep the boat stable in the water.
Popular options include the Laser and Sunfish designs. These boats are light enough to put on a trailer and take to different locations. They’re also easy to store when you’re not using them.
You can sail these boats alone or bring a friend along. Many small sailboats have space for two people to sit comfortably. Some even have tiny cabin areas for storage.
Learning to sail takes practice, but small sailboats make great starter boats. You can master basic sailing skills without getting overwhelmed by complex systems. Plus, these boats respond quickly to your movements, which helps you learn faster.
Your small sailboat can handle calm lakes and protected waters with ease. Some models can even tackle light coastal sailing when conditions are good.
7) Skiff
Skiffs are small, simple boats that give you a great way to get out on the water without spending too much money. These lightweight vessels usually measure between 15-20 feet long and run on outboard motors.
You’ll find skiffs perfect for fishing trips and casual rides around the water. Their flat bottoms let you glide smoothly in shallow areas where bigger boats can’t go.
Most skiffs keep things basic with just simple seating and storage. You won’t find fancy cabins or complicated features, which makes them easy to maintain and operate.
The best part about skiffs is their versatility. You can use them for fishing, exploring waterways, or just enjoying a peaceful day on the water. Their small size makes them easy to trailer and store.
Skiffs work great in both freshwater and coastal areas. Their stable design helps you feel secure while moving around the boat, and their open layout gives you plenty of space for fishing gear or supplies.
8) Bass Boat
Bass boats are special fishing vessels made for chasing bass in lakes and rivers. You’ll find they have a flat deck with lots of space to move around while fishing.
These boats usually measure between 16 and 21 feet long. The front deck gives you a raised platform for casting, and you’ll spot storage compartments for your rods and tackle boxes underneath.
Most bass boats come with two or three fishing seats and a powerful outboard motor. You can reach speeds up to 70 mph in some models, helping you zip between fishing spots quickly.
The shallow draft lets you navigate near shorelines and in skinny water where bass like to hide. You’ll also find helpful features like livewells to keep your catch fresh and electronics for finding fish.
A trolling motor on the front helps you move slowly and quietly while fishing. Many bass boats are made from fiberglass, though some budget-friendly aluminum options exist too.
You can fish alone, but these boats work great with a fishing buddy too. The stable design means you won’t have to worry about tipping while moving around or reeling in fish.
9) Catamaran
A catamaran is a unique boat with two parallel hulls connected by a deck or bridge. You’ll find these boats in both sailing and power versions, making them perfect for different types of adventures on the water.
The twin-hull design gives catamarans excellent stability on the water. You won’t feel much rocking motion compared to single-hull boats, which means less seasickness and a more comfortable ride.
These boats come in many sizes, from small day sailors to larger models perfect for family trips. You can easily move around the wide deck space, and most catamarans offer plenty of room for relaxing or fishing.
Catamarans are known for being easy to handle. You can sail many smaller models by yourself, especially those equipped with modern features like electric winches and autopilot systems.
The extra stability makes catamarans great for beginners. You’ll have more confidence knowing your boat won’t lean as much as traditional sailboats when the wind picks up.
Storage space is another benefit. Your gear stays dry in the two hulls, and the deck area gives you plenty of room for moving around or setting up chairs for a day on the water.
10) Runabout
Runabouts are versatile small powerboats that give you lots of options for fun on the water. These boats typically range from 16 to 26 feet in length and feature an open deck design that’s perfect for day trips.
You’ll find plenty of seating in a runabout, with space for 4-8 passengers depending on the size. The open layout makes it easy to move around while you’re anchored or cruising.
These boats work great for water sports like waterskiing and tubing. Most runabouts have enough power to pull skiers and enough storage space for all your gear.
A typical runabout has a deep-V hull that helps it handle waves well. You’ll stay dry and comfortable even when the water gets a bit choppy.
Many runabouts come with useful features like built-in coolers, swim platforms, and stereo systems. You can use them for fishing, swimming, or just relaxing with friends on sunny afternoons.
These boats are easy to trailer and launch at your local ramp. Their manageable size means you can store them in your garage or driveway when not in use.
Final Words!
Small boats give you lots of fun options for getting out on the water. From fishing boats to kayaks, there’s a perfect match for your needs and budget.
Starting with a basic boat like a Jon boat or dinghy can help you learn boating basics. These simple boats cost less and need less maintenance than bigger vessels.
It’s important to pick a boat that fits how you want to use it. Your boat choice should match your skill level too. Some boats are easier to handle than others. Think about where you’ll use the boat – lakes, rivers, or calm coastal waters all need different types of vessels.
The right small boat can bring years of enjoyment on the water. Take time to test different boats before buying to find your perfect match.
Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.
Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.