Lakes are calm freshwater bodies. They are suitable for a wide range of boats, from small to large, and from relaxed to adventurous. Finding the right boat depends on several factors, like the size of the boat, the activities you are planning to do, the size of your group, and your level of experience. Here is a guide designed to help beginners and lake-day renters choose the right one that fits their needs.
What to Consider When Choosing a Boat for a Lake?
Lake Size and Water Conditions
The size of the lake influences the stability, size, and speed of a boat. Larger lakes are suitable for powerful boats with deeper hulls and improved stability to handle strong winds, while smaller lakes are better suited for slower boats with flat bottoms and pontoon-style hulls. In smaller lakes, even smaller boats can achieve good speed. Smaller boats that are easy to handle and launch are suitable for smaller lakes.
Activities You Can Plan to Do
This is the key factor that determines the type of boat. Boats with special features like live wells and rod holders are perfect for fishing. Boats with powerful engines and specialized features are ideal for watersports. Larger boats with a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping space are the best for overnight trips.
Passenger Capacity and Comfort
Ample seating space, room to move, enough open space, sun protection, and comfort are essential while going on a boating trip. So, a boat at least 20 feet long is necessary for a group of six if you want to ensure the trip is comfortable and safe. Moreover, the deck layout also determines the number of passengers a boat can accommodate. For example, a pontoon can fit more people because of its deck layout.
Common Types of Boats Used on Lakes
Pontoon Boats
They are one of the most widely used boats on lakes. Pontoon boats are the best option for families and friends looking for a relaxed outing. Their unique feature is their double or triple pontoon tubes below the deck. The flat platform gives security and stability to pontoons. The main advantage of a pontoon is its spaciousness. With open walking areas, generous seating arrangements, ample storage space for bags and other gear, pontoon boats are best for group outings. Moreover, cushioned lounges and built-in shades add to the comfort. They are perfect for calm cruising, relaxing, and simple watersports.
Deck Boats
Deck boats are versatile watercraft with a wide bow that maximizes the deck space. So, there is plenty of room to move. The V-shaped hull makes the boats more maneuverable and gives better speed. The space and speed make deck boats the favorite for boaters who look for flexibility.
The seating arrangement is generally a wraparound type. The deckboats have swim ladders and provisions for storing safety gear and other things. They are suitable for lake cruising with swimming breaks, light watersports such as tubing, and an outing on the water with the family. The modest speed and comfort of deck boats promise a fantastic boating experience.
Bowrider Boats
They are recreational motorboats popular for their open bow seating area and social-friendly layout. It has an extra seating area at the front, which not only gives more space for passengers but also an open and inviting look. The best thing about bowriders boats is their easy operation, making them suitable for beginners and occasional renters.
Most models have swim platforms and ladders to climb. This makes it easy for passengers to get in the water, have a swim, and then get out of the water again. The space between the bow and cockpit, where you can have a relaxed conversation, makes it suitable for social outings with short swimming breaks.
Ski and Wake Boats
They are specialized boats designed for watersports like skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding. The shape of their hulls and the even weight distribution help in generating surfable waves. Ski and wake boats are similar, but with one main difference. The hull shape is flatter for ski and deeper for wake boats.
This type of boat focuses on performance. So, the passenger space is limited. However, the seating and layout are designed to provide comfort and visibility to the passengers. They are ideal for watersports rather than relaxed cruising.
You should have some experience in operating it. A trip on ski and wake boats can be fun-filled and enjoyable on the right lake with the right group.
Fishing Boats
They are specially designed for fishing. So, they have a lot of practical and functional features. Their layouts give importance to storage, stability, and movement, and not luxurious features and seating. They are meant for serious anglers who want to be focused on fishing without any distractions. Fishing boats have storage compartments to keep rods, tackle, and other fishing equipment. Stability is important as it allows the anglers to balance and stand while fishing. They serve the purpose for which they are built and can remain for long hours on water.
Cabin Cruisers
They are a home away from home with several amenities. The amenities on the cabin cruisers vary with the size of the boat, but most of them have facilities like sleeping berths, bathrooms, and kitchens. Cabin cruisers have an enclosed cabin space that provides shelter from the sun and weather. This makes it a perfect option for going on leisurely multi-day trips. Moreover, they are larger and heavier, assuring the passengers of a smooth and stable ride.
They are not the best choice for watersports, but are a splendid choice for scenic cruising in calm waters with sufficient docking facilities.
Personal Watercraft
Commonly called jet skis, they are ideal for adventurous trips on lakes. Personal watercraft are compact and sleek. They are designed for speed and not relaxation. If you are a solo rider looking for an exciting trip on water with bursts of speed, you should opt for jet skis. It gives you the advantage of narrow, unexplored areas because of their small size. However, it is not for beginners. You need experience, focus, and attention when you operate jet skis, especially on busy lakes with heavy traffic. They are suitable for lakes of all sizes and promise a thrilling ride on the water.
Which Boat Types Are Best for Lake Rentals?
Pontoons, deck boats, and bowriders are the best choices for rentals because of their simple operation and comfort. They are suitable for beginners and occasional renters who have no experience in handling complex controls.
Pontoons are on the top of the list as they are suitable for families and large groups with spacious seating, high stability, and relaxed operation. They are preferred by everyone who wants to enjoy a relaxed and smooth cruise. Deck boats are rented by people looking for a mix of speed, space, and comfort. Bowriders are commonly rented as they offer a stress-free ride on the lake. They are suitable for first-time boaters as well as experienced boaters.
Final Thoughts
Are you dreaming of an enjoyable boating on a lake? Choosing the right boat plays a significant role in making your trip enjoyable. Therefore, renting an ideal boat that suits your skill level, requirements, and the size of the lake is crucial.
Slipstream is an all-in-one platform where users can find appropriate boats and connect to rentals directly. You can find a wide range of options. The search process is simple, and the access is free. You can save a lot of time and energy, find the boat of your choice, and connect with trustworthy rentals without any brokers.
Visit Slipstream to find the perfect boat in a jiffy and have a hassle-free boating experience.
FAQs
What Is The Best Boat For A Small Lake?
For small lakes, pontoon boats, bowriders, and deck boats are the best because they are compact, stable, and easy to handle.
Are Pontoon Boats Good For Beginners?
Yes, they are good for beginners because of their easy operation, stability, and suitability for calm waters.
Can You Rent Different Types Of Lake Boats?
Yes, you can. Most lakes offer a wide range of boats, including deck boats, bow riders, pontoons, fishing boats, jet skis, and cabin cruisers. It depends on the lake and the rental provider.
Do Lake Boats Require A License Or Training?
It may vary depending on the location of the lake and the type of boat. Some regions ask for a certification, and in some regions, a basic briefing on safety is enough.
