Introduction
Family boating continues to be of essence because of its benefits, which include, relaxation, fishing, meditation, and cruising. Hence, to have an exciting and fulfilling family boating experience, purchasing the best family boat for money that is versatile is important. Usually, some boat models are built with more features and specifications than others, therefore knowing how to choose the best boat model is essential.
Before deciding on the best family boat to buy, many things must be factored in. This includes your budget, the type, size, purpose, and maker of the boat. Purchasing a family boat that fits your family’s needs is vital to creating long-lasting and exciting memories for your family and friends.
In this article, you’ll discover all you need to know from the classes, types, and the best family boat to buy for your boat trip.
Classes Of Boats
A lot of confusion arises from how to classify boats. And mostimes, people mistake a boat for a ship. However, there are differences between a boat and a ship, mainly in their size, operation areas, uses, and capacity. There are many boat types with an enormous number of designs and sub-classes, but the most vital means is to classify boats into three main sections, as discussed below.
Sailboats
Sailboats are all boats propelled by sailing—any boat you have to sail to aid its movement falls under this class. Boats that have a sail and navigate through the water using wind power are called sailboats.
Motorboats
Motorboats include all boats powered by an engine, referred to as engine-powered boats. Motorboats are driven with the power of an internal combustion engine. With the advances in technology, motorboats exist with more than one engine, engines with fins, jet engines that are most commonly used in Jet Ski, and other combinations to enhance boats’ performance.
Man-Powered or Unpowered boats
The man-powered or unpowered boats make use of human resources to navigate through the water. They were the pioneer boat design in the early stages of boating history. Today, man-powered or unpowered boats are mainly used as recreational boats, such as rafts, kayaks, gondolas, etc.
10 Types Of Family Boats
Having discussed the boats’ classes, we now look at ten types of family boats available on the market today. The information provided here will assist you in choosing the best family boat for money depending on the preferred capacity, use, budget, design, or maker. Here is a list of ten types of family boats worth considering.
1. Dinghy Boats
Dinghy boats are commonly known as inflatables or rowboats and sometimes sailboats. Dinghy boats are generally of two types, the hard dinghy, and inflatables. They are made from rubber and have to be inflated to be in full shape, and they consist of rowlocks and cross thwarts which act as oars and seats, respectively.
Dinghy boats are mainly used for camping and fishing in shallow waters and are attached to big ships as companions. Dinghy boats are best considered for fishing in shallow waters. They are only suitable for small families and are not great boating options involving large families.
Some fantastic dinghy boats for families are;
Intex 5 Excursion Dinghy boat
The best-selling Intex 5 excursion dinghy boat comes with some incredible features. It is considered one of the best fishing inflatables for families because of the four-rod holders, large interior, and motor mounts. You can start the day quickly with the Intex Double Quick II hand pump, and the dinghy is set for fishing.
The three air chambers ensure peace of mind for the users, so even if your dinghy boat is punctured, it will stay afloat. It’s a simple fix with the repair patch.
Check it out Intex 5 Excursion Dinghy.
Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10
The Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 is designed for the ultimate fishing experience. Look no further if your boat trip plan is solely for fishing. It isn’t easy to find inflatables that combine the basic dinghy performance with this boat’s incredibly useful fishing features. Instead of the usual pontoons separated at the transom, this boat has a fully enclosed hull with a wide profile.
Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker comes with a marine-grade plywood floor and side struts that increase its overall stability. So, whether you’re fishing in saltwater or freshwater, the Stealth Stalker STS10 will perform even in extreme conditions.
Check out Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10.
Newport Vessels Dana
Newport Vessels Dana combines near-perfect performance with portability. This 8-feet inflatable sport tender dinghy boat with large tubes that resembles twin rockets. The Newport seats up to three passengers and can take up to 1,067 lbs., making it one of the best family boats for a family of 3.
Hence, this boat might be just the right one for you if you’re looking for a dinghy with remarkable speed, superior stability, and durable construction material. Also, it can survive rough water adventures with a hull from 1100 Denier Korean PVC.
Check out, Newport Vessels Dana.
Pros
- Easy to propel.
- They are stable.
- Affordable
- Low cost of maintenance.
- Easy to move around.
Cons
- They are tender.
- Difficult to row under heavy weather.
- They are not spacious for large families.
- No space for storage.
- You can’t stand and walk around without fear of capsizing.
2. Pontoon Boats
Pontoon boats are popular for relaxation and crushing on rivers, lakes, and pools. These boats rely on tubes called pontoons to float on water. They are mostly flat in shape and are of different variations. Usually, they are made of aluminum boards for support and balance and are great options for family fun.
Some of the best pontoon boats for families are;
Premier 310 Escalante
The Premier 310 Escalante is a perfect definition of luxury and personifies the relaxation and fun that comes with the boating experience. The premier Escalante is equipped with gadgets to aid the easy living, built with soft leather, teak tables, USB outlets between the seats, and refrigerated cup holders.
This family boat also has a cooler, trash cans, plenty of storage space, JL audio with amps and subwoofer, and a hard-side change room. It is the epitome of luxury. Hence, the premier 310 Escalante is one of the best family boats that embodies luxury and style.
Check out Premier 310 Escalante.
M3 CRS Sylvan
M3 CRS Sylvan is filled with high-quality modern-day gadgets, comfortable, relaxed seats, stereo speakers, and USB chargers to charge your gadgets while you spend quality time with family and friends.
Check out M3 CRS Sylvan..
PrinceCraft Vectra 21 RL
PrinceCraft Vectra 21 RL is one of the best pontoon boats for a family trip. This family boat comes with a two-position adjustable backrest which lets you sit back and interact with your friends and family or just enjoy the view. The sundeck of PrinceCraft Vectra 21 RL is large and includes a stainless-steel boarding ramp and a ski tow bar.
Check out PrinceCraft Vectra 21 RL.

Pros
- Comfortable seating.
- Gives an easy and smooth ride.
- They are spacious.
- Good for daytime cruising.
- Easy to maintain.
- They are family-friendly.
- Good for fishing.
Cons
- They are not the best for overnight cruising.
- Difficult to move around offshore.
3. Houseboats
Houseboats also called float houses, are made in different sizes and shapes. Houseboats have spacious floors, dining, adequate sleeping facilities, and other luxurious facilities to support living on the water. They are one of the best family boats to offer exciting memories of activities like cruising, relaxation, sailing, watersports, etc. They are mostly motorized, hence, if your plan of activities fits those of houseboats, they make a great choice.
The best house boats for families are;
The Zion Houseboat
The Zion house boat is the ultimate all-American houseboat. This family boat comes with two bedrooms and a loft area, which can comfortably accommodate up to eight guests at any time. It has high ceilings and many windows that bathe the space in natural light. Other standard features of the Zion include a massive front deck that fits a hot tub, a full bar, and a barbecue grill.
The Zion boat house is fully-equipped with a state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen that comes outfitted with stainless steel appliances to help you whip up delicious meals in a jiffy. As far as functionality goes, the Zion delivers on all fronts.
Check out The Zion House boat..
Stardust Cruisers Houseboat
If space and luxury are what you seek, then you’ll love what the Stardust Cruisers Houseboat has to offer. It fuses a conventional houseboat’s unique and cozy features with the style and finesse of a luxury yacht.
The boat is made of aluminum and fiberglass panels that are 100% wood-free. If you value improved economy and handling, the vessel is available in V-drive power and direct drive configurations for you to choose from.
Check Out Out Stardust Cruisers Houseboat..
Catamaran Cruiser
Catamaran Cruiser is a floating home built with the first-time houseboat owner in mind. This family boat has a spacious galley with a full-sized fridge and a roomy bathroom with enough space to maneuver. For those days you want to enjoy the outdoor views of the water surrounding your home, the boat has a spacious 300 sq. ft. deck that’s perfect for relaxing or entertaining.
Check out Catamaran Cruiser.

Pros
- Good for day and night time cruising.
- Good option for fishing.
- They are spacious.
- Comes with storage space.
- Convenient and luxurious.
Cons
- They are expensive.
- Not easy to maintain.
- Prone to disease attack if living on the houseboat for long.
4. Deck Boats
Deck Boats are built to have an open deck area that provides many seating facilities for a small group of people. Deck boats have a V-shaped hull with a wide beam to take passengers. On average, deck boats measure 25-35 feet in length, with a stern power drive, and are mostly used for recreational water activities like cruising, water sports, etc.
The best top deck boats for families are;
StarCraft SVX 231 OB
This family-friendly deck boat is as functional as it is high-performance and beautiful. The boat has a deep and spacious cockpit, which is great for little kids on board and is made from high-quality components built to stand the test of time. Be it cruise, watersports, fishing, or any other water activity StarCraft is a wonderful choice.
Check out StarCraft SVX 231 OB.
Hurricane Sundeck OB
Hurricane Sundeck OB is one of the best family deck boats available to all boat lovers. This family boat offers an unmatched level of convenience and versatility, with a center-deck bi-fold door that provides added protection against the elements and keep your kids safe while on board. The Hurricane Sundeck OB has several convenience features, including cup and cell phone holders, charging ports, and keeper netting.
Check out Hurricane Sundeck OB.
Concept 392 Family Edition
The Concept 392 Family Edition deck boat is made for the family, just as the name suggests. For one thing, this family boat is spacious, with a center console layout and ample sitting at the deck and bow. The outstanding feature is the build for comfort and utility. Concept 392 family edition has a wide range of fishing features that make it ideal for a day spent on the open water reeling in some huge catches. As the name suggests, this is one of the best family boats for money available on the market.
Check out Concept 392 Family Edition.
Pros
- They are spacious.
- They have comfortable seating.
- Good option for cruising.
- Good for recreational activities like watersports, crushing, fishing, etc.
Cons
- Not easy to maintain.
- Difficult to move around offshore.
- They are costly.
5. Cabin Cruiser Boats
Offering all the essential features of a home, Cabin Cruiser boats are great for relaxed sailing. Designed with a galley and a berth, these boats offer modern comforts like heaters, air conditioners, and power generators. In addition to a deep-V bottom, the Cabin Cruisers employ a secure shaft drive mechanism plus rudder steering and are mainly suited for movement in the salty water.
Some of the most fantastic cabin cruiser boats for families are;
Tiara 43 LE
Tiara 43 LE offers a blend of smart functionality and thrilling performance, providing guests the ultimate enjoyment and relaxation on the water. The 43 LE boasts some of the best on-deck features you’ll see anywhere, including overnight capabilities for up to five people and a chaise lounge sun pad in the bow. The icing on the cake is the electric grill located behind the seat.
Check out Tiara 43 LE.
The Grand Banks Eastbay 44
The Eastbay 44 by Grand Banks is crafted with great skills, showcasing luxury and top-notch facilities. It features a cozy teak-clad cockpit seating/dining area with large electric windows so you can enjoy the breeze at the push of a button. The main cabin comes with a full-sized bed and plenty of wardrobe space.
Check out The Grand Banks Eastbay 44.
Jeanneau NC1095 Fly
The Jeanneau NC1095 Fly combines a special approach to a cabin cruiser and brilliant design spawned by a modern interpretation of what cruising is all about. This is a 35-foot boat that can so easily be called a home away from home. The Fly is easily big enough for a family or a small party to while away a weekend or a summer playing cards and reading while cruising to another horizon.
Check out The The Jeanneau NC1095 Fly.
Pros
- They are spacious.
- Good option for day and night cruising.
- Best option for family cruising.
- Comes with storage space.
- Convenient and luxurious.
Cons
- It is costly.
- Not easy to maintain.
6. Motor Yacht Boats
The latest design in the evolution of boats, the motor yacht, is a watercraft primarily used for leisure activities. The motor yacht has a standard length of 12m and above, with one or two diesel engines per navigation requirements in inland waters or the oceans. The motor yacht can vouchsafe for an enjoyable family trip for a long period.
There are different types of yachts in the market, including day sailing yachts, weekender yachts, cruising yachts, luxury sailing yachts, etc., to meet the various requirements of the best family boats.
The best motor yacht boats for families are;
- Carver 52 Command
- Hattera M75 Panacera
- Sabre 58 Salon Express.
- Tiara Yachts 53 Coupe.
- 60 Cantius Cruiser Yachts
Pros
- Good for day and night cruising.
- They are spacious and luxurious.us
- Good for fishing.
- Good for a mini family party.
- They have storage space.
Cons
- They are not easy to maintain.
- Long stay leaves you prone to disease.
- They are costly.
7. Jet Boats
Powered by a jet of water ejected from behind the vessel, Jet Boat is notable for its high maneuverability. The structure of a jet boat is quite similar to that of a bow-rider, as it offers a lot of seating areas and a swimming platform. In addition, the advanced propulsion system is securely enveloped in the hull to protect it from any external damage.

Some fantastic jet boats for families are;
- Yamaha 275SD Jet Boat.
- Vortex 2430 VRX Boat.
- Yamaha SX 190 Jet Boat.
- Scarab 285 ID Jet Boat.
- Yamaha 210 FSH Jet Boat.
Pros
- Good for maneuvers.
- Good for cruising and exploring.
- Good for watersports.
- Easy to maintain.
Cons
- Not suitable for night cruising.
- They are not spacious.
- No storage space.
8. Bowrider Boats
Known as a quintessential family boat, Bowriders offer room for eight or more passengers across its cockpit, bow cockpit, and helm. In addition, these boats’ bow area has been constructed uniquely to allow a spacious seating arrangement. Moreover, the runabout-style vessels contain a swim platform for putting on wakeboards, swimming activities, and feel-good leisure boating.
Bowrider Boats offers a splendid ride across different water conditions with its classic V-shaped bottom. The usage of sterndrive power is the typical rule, but the demand for outboard engines is increasing rapidly.
The top 5 bowrider boats for families are;
- Yamaha SX210 Bowrider.
- Bayliner VR6 Bowrider Boat.
- Formula 240 Bowrider Boat
- Tahoe 210S Bowrider Boat.
- Regal OBX21/Bowrider Boat.
Pros
- Good for recreational boating and watersports towing.
- They have spacious seating.
- Family-friendly.
- Easy and convenient.
- Good for daytime cruising.
Cons
- Not built for nighttime cruising.
- No enclosed cabins.
- Not easy to maintain.
9. Center Console
Center console boats are commonly used for their versatility as fish boats and family fun-time boats. They have a capacity of 7 passengers and are between 18-65 feet long. At its core, a center console is simply a boat with a steering station on a console in the center of the boat. The boat has an open deck space in the front and in the back. Generally, consoles can be ideal for a wide range of activities.
Top 5 center console boats for families are;
Pros
- Good for fishing activities.
- Comes with fishing features.
- Good for offshore conditions.
- They are convenient.
- They are versatile.
Cons
- They are not spacious.
- Not easy to maintain
10. Cuddy Cabin Boats
Well-suited for fishing, yachting, sailing, and other water sports, Cuddy Cabins Boats is one of the most family-friendly vessels. Featuring a closed deck over the boat’s bow, the boat allows a convenient storage space and easy navigation. The cuddy cabin boats are usually built of fiberglass and aluminum, that is around 4.75 meters. Cuddy cabin boats are one of the best family boats to be considered.
The best cuddy cabin boats for families are;
Pros
- They are versatile.
- Good for day and night time cruising.
- They are luxurious and spacious.
- Good option for family cruising and exploring.
- Provides storage space.
Cons
- They are costly.
- Not easy to maintain.
Top Maintenance Tips For Family Boats
Proper maintenance is vital when it comes to boats, as it determines the comfort and durability of the boat. If you’re wondering how to take care of your family boat, here are five maintenance tips for your family boat below;
- Manage your Gelcoat with quality materials from trusted sources.
- Wipe off moisture or any liquid substance from the surface of your boats.
- Always Check that the engines are in good shape before you embark on a trip.
- Protect and preserve your battery during the off-season.
- Schedule a routine check with your engineer at intervals.
Final Thoughts
There are different boats for different occasions, and some boats are more versatile than the others. Hence, knowing the right boats that creates exciting memories and encourages relaxation is important. The best family boats for money not only provides soothing comfort but also enhances outdoor relaxation with its unique build and finely designed features.