The Best Boats for Salt Water

You will need to choose a boat wisely if you will be taking it in salt water, which is more corrosive and many times rougher than fresh water. Whether you plan to use the boat for fishing or sightseeing, the shape and material of the boat can make all the difference. Consider a few basic details, and you will find a boat ideal for your purpose that can handle salt water.

  1. Hull Design

    • The type of saltwater that the boat will be on is the indicator for the hull design. A flat bottom boat or hull design is ideal if the boat will be on calm, bay waters. It skims along the smooth surface without the risk of turning over in rough waves. The rougher the waves, the deeper the hull or V design should be. The deeper hull allows for more rocking in rough waves and keeps the boat upright. A twin hull or catamaran style allows the boat to skim through the waves; this avoids pounding over the waves. The twin hull provides a more gentle ride and is better on fuel.

    Boat Material

    • Fiberglass and aluminum are ideal materials for boats you will subject to rough ocean waters. Neither will rust, and both fiberglass and aluminum are lighter than traditional wood boats, which also allows for fuel efficiency. Fiberglass and aluminum can corrode and need regular maintenance to keep them in running condition.

    Boat Use

    • Most salt water or ocean boats are for sightseeing or fishing. The use of the boat is an indicator of the type of boat needed along with the accessories that will come with the boat. Many fishing boats come equipped with rod holders, bait wells and live wells for bait and caught fish, as well as fish-finding equipment and quiet trolling motors. Sightseeing boats come with high points to see over the ocean surface, as well as glass bottoms for calmer shallow waters.

    Time and Maintenance

    • It is important to decide how much time you will have for your boat's maintenance. Because the salt water is hard on the boat's surface areas and motor, you will need to clean the boat regularly, including removing any barnacles or other sea life attached to the bottom of the boat. Service the engine regularly to keep it in running order and to keep the corrosive salt water out of it. If you store or dock the boat for long periods, you may need to hire a maintenance person to keep the boat in running condition.