Boat engine fire safety is something every boater should understand before heading out on the water. A fire aboard a recreational boat is one of the most dangerous emergencies a crew can face. Engine fires can spread quickly, produce toxic smoke, and threaten everyone on board. Knowing how to respond can make a critical difference.

When a fire starts near the engine, fast action matters. The goal is to protect everyone on board, reduce the fuel or electrical source if it is safe, and call for help before the situation becomes uncontrollable.

Boat Engine Fire Safety: Act Quickly and Stay Calm

The first step is to alert everyone on board and have all passengers put on life jackets. Remaining calm helps ensure that everyone can follow instructions, avoid panic, and move away from immediate danger.

Boat Engine Fire Safety: Shut Down the Engine and Fuel Supply

If it is safe to do so, immediately turn off the engine and shut off the fuel supply. Disconnecting electrical power can also help reduce the chance of the fire spreading through the vessel.

Avoid Opening the Engine Compartment

Many recreational boats have enclosed engine compartments. Opening the compartment can introduce oxygen and cause the fire to intensify. Instead, use any built-in fire suppression system or a fire extinguisher through the designated fire port if your boat has one.

Boat Engine Fire Safety: Fight the Fire Safely

Use a marine-rated fire extinguisher and aim at the base of the fire. If the fire cannot be controlled quickly, focus on the safety of everyone aboard rather than trying to save the vessel.

Call for Help

Use your VHF radio to contact emergency services or nearby vessels. Provide your location, describe the nature of the emergency, and explain how many people are on board. Early communication can speed up rescue efforts.

Be Prepared to Abandon Ship

If the fire continues to spread, gather emergency equipment if time permits and prepare to leave the vessel. Stay together, keep life jackets on, and follow established boating safety procedures.

Prevention Is the Best Defense

Regular engine maintenance, fuel system inspections, and properly serviced fire extinguishers can significantly reduce the risk of onboard fires. Every boater should review emergency procedures before heading out on the water.

A boat engine fire can be frightening, but proper boat engine fire safety preparation and a quick, informed response can help protect lives and minimize damage.

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To start, here are the most basic steps on how to dock a boat:

1. Deploy fenders and prepare dock lines.
2. Gauge the effects of wind and/or current.
3. Drive up close to your slip or berth.
4. Maneuver your boat so it’s positioned to enter the berth or slip.
5. Slow or stop forward momentum so you don’t approach too fast.
6. Using small applications of intermittent power, maneuver into the berth or slip.
7. Use a small application of power to stop all motion.
8. Secure the boat in its berth or slip with the mooring lines.

Safely maneuvering your boat into a slip or alongside a fuel dock need not be an overwhelmingly traumatic experience. In fact, getting stressed-out about the maneuver ahead of time is one surefire way to blow it. Besides, thanks to new systems such as joystick steering, pod drives, and bow and stern thrusters, docking can be easier than ever before. But first, since the majority of boaters—both power and sail—have single-engine boats, and docking any kind of boat is based on the same basic single-engine procedure, let’s take a more in-depth look at the steps you’ll take to get a boat into a tight spot safely with just one propeller and no assistance from modern technology.

Docking a Single-Engine Boat

Before you do anything else, get your dock lines pre-rigged and have your fenders set and hung over the side. Next, take stock of which way the current—if present—is moving, as well as which direction the wind is coming from. Generally speaking, you should always try to maneuver with the bow of the boat as much into the prevailing force of the wind and/or current as possible, though Mother Nature isn’t always going to cooperate. Like an airplane landing or taking off, you’ll maintain more control if you’re going against the wind than if it’s pushing you from behind. Also make an assessment of your surroundings and look for boat traffic in the area, any hidden spots where other boats may appear unannounced, and what obstructions you may be forced to maneuver around.

If you have crew members aboard, this is a great time to enlist their help by stationing them at strategic spots—such as the bow and stern—with appropriate dock lines or boat hooks at the ready. Before making your approach, talk with your crew members and let them know how you intend to approach, how they can help, and of any potential trouble spots you might encounter during the maneuver. Then, make your move.

Safety Tip: Warn those crew members not to place hands or feet directly between the boat and any fixed object, where they could get pinched or smashed between the two.

Get your boat lined up for the approach, remembering to do everything you can to come in facing against the wind or current. If you can’t head into the wind or current, try using it to your advantage however possible. Remember to go as slow as possible while still maintaining steerage. Also, consider reducing the effect the wind has on your boat by lowering things like Bimini tops, canvas enclosures, or sports towers.

If the wind or current—or both—are working to push you up against a dock, make as shallow an entry as possible (in degrees, not depth). If the wind or current are working against you, increase your angle of attack to maintain better control. Don’t forget: the more you move with the wind and current astern, the less control of your boat you will ultimately have.

Glide in slowly, remembering the old adage, “Don’t go any faster than you’d be comfortable hitting the dock.” Trust us, we’ve seen many a showoff end up with significant fiberglass damage because they used too much power when docking. As you approach the dock or slip, apply short, controlled bursts of power and then take the engine or engines out of gear as you coast in the proper direction.

Maneuvering Tip: turn your wheel in the direction you need to go before applying a burst of power. If you apply power and then turn your wheel, your boat will react and turn with a significant delay.

On your final approach, keep making small adjustments to keep the boat lined up properly, putting the engine into and out of gear as needed. Keep in mind that there’s nothing wrong at this point with aborting the docking attempt if things go wrong—it’s way better to bail and start over than to try to salvage an attempt that’s quickly going down the tubes.

Whether you’re pulling alongside or into a slip, the final step is to stop the forward momentum of the boat. This is most commonly accomplished by applying a short application of power in reverse, though sometimes a dock line—a spring line works best—can be used to stop forward movement. If you’re pulling alongside a bulkhead, angling your engine toward the dock and then applying reverse can help both pull your stern alongside and stop the boat’s movement.

Finally, tie off and make sure your dock lines are set in such a way that you won’t come into contact with any other boats or structure where you have no fender protection. Once this is all done you can shut down your engine—but never turn off your engine before your boat is totally secure and tied off in its berth or slip. You may need to apply some corrective power if wind or current shove your boat out of position, as you secure the lines.

Those are the ropes when you’re dealing with a single-engine boat. But what if you’ve got twins, or a boat with bow or stern thrusters—or both? Better yet, what if you’ve got a joystick steering system?

Before we move on, consider watching the following videos and reading these articles for some tricks and tips to make your next docking adventure an easy one.

• Boating Tips: Tips for Easier Docking
• Five Docking Disasters: Don’t Let This Happen to You!
• How To Dock a Boat: Our Top Ten Tips
• How To Dock a Powerboat
• Docking Defense
• Docking Under Sail 

Docking with Multiple Engines

As you may have guessed, having multiple engines makes things much easier, at least when it comes to the slow-speed maneuvering involved with docking. Being able to put one engine in forward and the other in reverse (in the case of twins) or opposing the outside motors (in multiple engine applications) allows the driver to pivot the boat much more effectively than with a single engine.

Even though you’ll follow the same basic steps as outlined above, docking with multiple engines is quite different than it is with a single-engine boat. Here are some tips to make it easier:

1. With the port engine in forward and the starboard engine in reverse, your boat will typically pivot on an axis to starboard. A way to think of it is your port engine will push the bow of your boat to starboard, while your starboard engine will pull your stern to port.
2. With the port engine in reverse and the starboard engine in forward the exact opposite is true and your boat will typically pivot on its axis to port. Your port engine will pull the bow of your boat to port while your starboard engine will push your stern to starboard.
3. If you’ve got outboards, twin inboards with rudders, or outdrives, it’s generally best to keep the steering wheel centered and let the engines do all the work, using the two tips above.
4. Remember that inboards tend to pivot a boat faster than outboards (because the propellers are farther apart). With outboards, a stronger application of power is often necessary to attain the same results.
5. When coming alongside a bulkhead or fuel dock, you can sometimes use alternating applications of power between the port and starboard engine to “walk” your boat sideways, though it takes some practice to get the hang of this maneuver. When pulling alongside, always use the engine farthest from the dock to pull your stern in.
6. If your boat has triple engines or even quads, they are generally paired off electronically on the outer engines (though this is often configurable through the engine controls).
7. Experiment using one engine or the other in tandem with the steering wheel, as well. You can often gain better control for fine-tuning your approach this way.

Docking with Thrusters

Bow and stern thrusters are electric- or hydraulic-powered propellers that are mounted perpendicular to the centerline of the boat. They are designed to push a boat’s bow or its stern to port or starboard. They’re especially nice to have when you’re dealing with crosswinds or crosscurrents.

1. Most modern bow and stern thrusters are controlled independently by their own controller at the helm. Some controllers have simple buttons, while others have a joystick-style controller.
2. Most controllers have a green arrow indicating which way the bow or stern will move, depending on which button your push or how you toggle a joystick-style switch.
3. Just like the way you use your engine(s) to control the movement of your boat, the best way to use bow or stern thrusters is by applying short bursts of thrust. Remember, once you boat starts moving significantly in a certain direction, more and more power will be required to reverse the action. You can’t take away power you’ve applied, but you can always add more.
4. Additionally, keep in mind that some bow and stern thrusters (particularly electric models) can overheat and shut down temporarily until they cool. The more short pulses you use the less chance of overheating.
5. Experiment with your setup to see how your boat responds in different situations, such as using a combination of engine and thruster power.

Docking with Joystick Control

The ultimate tool in making docking an easy, almost carefree affair, joystick docking systems are becoming more common with every passing boating season. The way these systems work is by centralizing and computerizing control of multiple power sources—single engines, multiple engines, bow or stern thrusters, pod drives, etc.—into a single input device: the joystick.

Generally speaking, you push the joystick in whichever direction you want your boat to go, or twist it to spin the boat in one direction or the other. Simultaneously the electronic brain barks out commands to the engines and other propulsion systems on your boat to make it happen. There are even joystick systems designed for use with outboard engines. Here are a few tips that will come in handy, for those who dock a boat with joystick control:

1. Joystick systems are often “stick sensitive,” meaning the farther you push or twist the joystick in a certain direction, the more power will be applied to make it happen. Push just slightly and you’ll get small amount of power. Push all the way and you’ll get lots of it.
2. Unless you’re a teenager who plays lots of video games, joystick steering can take some experience. Before you fully commit to using this system in a hairy situation, be sure to practice until you’re comfortable.
3.  Always be ready to switch back to manual control at a moment’s notice. While you can usually control a joystick-piloted boat in most any condition, sometimes you may get better results by manually controlling the boat. Additionally, as we mentioned earlier, bow and stern thrusters can sometimes overheat and shut down unexpectedly; if your boat has thrusters that are subject to this kind of stoppage you should always be ready for one piece of your joystick ecosystem to fail.

Here are a few articles that address specific joystick systems:

• Boating Tips: Docking with Optimus Joystick Control
• BRP Rolls Out a Joystick Control for V6 Evinrude Outboards
• Mercury Joystick Control for Quad Verado Outboards Breaks Cover
• The Happy Stick: Joystick Controls for Outboard Boats
• Yamaha Helm Master Offers Total Control

Docking a Boat with Pod Drives

Pod drive systems generally consist of two or more inboard engines that are mated to independently articulating drives mounted under the hull of the boat—also known as “pods.” Since these pods are able to swivel independently of each other, and with a far greater swinging arc than other drives, they provide the ultimate in slow-speed control.

Sync up a pair of swiveling pod drives to a joystick control system and you often have a boat that can spin and turn within its own length, move sideways in a straight line, and maneuver on the proverbial dime. And that’s a great attribute to have, especially when it comes to docking a boat in tight quarters. Still, easy as it may be to control a boat with pod drives, as with other joystick-controlled steering systems most folks should practice before fully committing to docking using the joystick only.

For more information about pod drives read:

• All About Pod Drives: Volvo-Penta IPS, MerCruiser Cummins Zeus, and ZF Marine
• Outboards, Inboards, Pod Drives, Stern Drives, and Jets: Which is the Best?
• Pod Drive Update: CAT Enters the Fray

Practice Makes Perfect

Like most anything in life, the best way to master docking your boat is by practicing these docking maneuvers over and over… and over again. Consider empty public docks and bulkheads without any surrounding boat traffic for your practicing grounds, and look for opportunities to dock in all sorts of different situations as your confidence grows. Before you know it, you’ll know how to dock your boat like a boss.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in September 2016 and was last updated in June of 2026.

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Outboard Engine Maintenance: Buy the Book

A service manual can offer valuable guidance on outboard engine maintenance and repair procedures. Typically available through authorized marine dealers, online service literature dealers, or even eBay, the manual provides instructions on disassembling and reassembling parts, key specifications, and maintenance details, including the location of all lubrication points.

Fuel System

Rubber and plastic components in a fuel system can deteriorate due to various factors such as age, heat, and ethanol. This deterioration can lead to dangerous fuel leaks or the intake of air into the system, causing difficulty in starting or keeping the motor running. Fuel lines are particularly vulnerable to this deterioration process, becoming hard and brittle over time and deteriorating from the inside-out.

It is important to regularly inspect and replace any worn or damaged fuel system components to ensure safe and efficient operation of the motor. Furthermore, using fuel stabilizers and storing the motor properly when not in use can help minimize the impact of age, heat, and ethanol on the fuel system. Regular maintenance and care can prolong the life of the fuel system components and ultimately contribute to a better boating experience.

Old or worn-out fuel pump diaphragms and check valves can contribute to difficulty starting an outboard motor. Fortunately, replacing the fuel lines and rebuilding the fuel pump and carburetors with modern, ethanol-resistant components is a straightforward solution.

When replacing fuel lines, it is important to use marine-specific, ethanol-rated fuel line materials. These materials are designed to withstand the corrosive effects of ethanol and minimize the risk of fuel leaks or other fuel system malfunctions. Rebuilding pulse-type fuel pumps and carburetors with kits that include new, ethanol-tolerant diaphragms, check valves, and floats (if needed) is also a good practice.

Once the fuel system has been rehabilitated with these components, it will function at peak efficiency and be much safer to use. Regular outboard engine maintenance and inspection of the fuel system can help to ensure its continued optimal performance and minimize the risk of fuel-related issues while boating.

Water Pump

The rubber impeller of the water pump in an outboard motor can become dry and stiff with age, particularly if the motor is not frequently used. Even if the motor has seen a lot of hours, the impeller vanes may also become worn or scored. Although you may see water streaming from the tell-tale on the side of the motor, the water pump may not be delivering sufficient pressure to the cooling system. If the pump fails, you may not notice until the motor overheats. Thus, it is advisable to replace the impeller regularly as it is inexpensive insurance.

You should also inspect the pump housing, which can be replaced on many motors if it has been scored by abrasive sand. It is also essential to inspect the water intake port(s) on the lower unit to ensure they are not obstructed by debris, as this can cause the motor to overheat. A stiff wire can be utilized to clear the blockages, another important element of outboard engine maintenance.

Propeller

Improving the condition of the propeller can significantly enhance the overall performance of an outboard motor. Even if the propeller appears to be fine, it may have slight bends or worn blade cupping, which can cause it to be unbalanced or improperly pitched. These issues can impact the motor’s performance and fuel efficiency. Therefore, it’s essential to inspect the propeller’s condition regularly.

If the propeller is damaged or in poor condition, a replacement or repair is necessary. A prop shop can use a jig to check and tune up the blade alignment, which helps improve the propeller’s balance and performance. Moreover, advancements in computer-aided design have improved propeller design significantly in the past few decades. Hence, upgrading to a newer model could make a noticeable difference in the motor’s efficiency and speed.

It’s crucial to note that propellers are not indestructible, and damage to the blades may not always be visible to the naked eye. Therefore, it’s vital to inspect the propeller for any signs of wear or damage, especially after encountering a soft bottom or other obstacles in the water.

While you’ve got the prop off the motor, check for fishing line wrapped around the shaft near the propshaft seal; it can destroy that seal and let water enter the gearcase.

A weak link on an old prop is the rubber hub cushion. Like the fuel system and the water pump impeller, the rubber hub material gets hard and dry as it ages and is constantly exposed to hot and acidic exhaust. The bond between hub splines and the barrel of the prop can fail when the hub material dries out, leaving the propshaft disconnected from the prop. Beware an old prop from dealer stock—a marine tech I know thought he’d struck pay dirt when he found a 30-year-old NOS stainless-steel Mariner prop for his 25 HP motor, gathering dust in a dealer stockroom. Even though it was “NOS” (new on shelf) the hub was dry and spun out the second time he used the prop.

Spark Plugs and Wires

Most outboard owners know to throw a new set of plugs in a two-stroke outboard every season. But like everything else rubbery on an outboard, heat and ozone will cause the spark plug wires or cables to age with time and they should also be replaced. Old wires will feel stiff or brittle, and will develop small cracks in the insulation that can allow current to arc out of the wires.

One way to check for arcing is to start the motor in the dark with the cowl off, and look for white or bright blue flashing where the current is escaping the cables and grounding somewhere on the motor. New plug cables will ensure all that current reaches the plugs.

Rebuild the Recoil

If your motor has a manual rope-start (the so-called Armstrong System), it will likely benefit from a rebuild. Mounted on top of the powerhead, the recoil is exposed to a lot of engine heat, and also gets baked in the hot sun, especially under a black cowl. The lubricating grease gets old and waxy, and the entire mechanism can become polluted with dirt and minerals from the water. The rope itself will age and get stiff and become prone to breaking, usually at its end where it’s crimped around the spool or pulley.

The service manual, always a good idea for outboard engine maintenance, will be especially helpful for this task, as the recoil often has a number of small parts and a spring or two to deal with. Get it apart and use solvent to clean off any old grease. Replace any parts that appear worn, like rope guides or pawls that grip the flywheel. Re-lube and then reassemble with a new rope or cable.

Finally, give that old outboard a hug—everyone needs some love now and again.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally written in September 2015 and last updated in June of 2026.

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A Perfect Setup Meets Brutal Conditions

According to pilot Jan-Cees Korteland, the team spent countless hours preparing the boat specifically for the unique demands of the Pavia-Venezia course.

The setup proved successful from the start, with the boat performing beyond expectations. But nature had other plans.

Exceptionally low water levels transformed the historic route into a minefield of hidden sandbanks and shallow sections. Running at racing speed, the VÉHICULE Racing Team repeatedly found themselves inches away from disaster.

The first grounding came at full speed after narrowly avoiding several sandbanks. Momentum eventually carried the boat back into deeper water, allowing the race to continue. Shortly afterward, a second impact followed.

As they approached yet another shallow section, competitors who had already struck the same bank managed to warn the Korteland brothers just in time, directing them toward safer water.

The damage, however, had already been done.

A damaged propeller created heavy vibrations and significantly reduced top speed. Faced with the choice of stopping for repairs or continuing with compromised performance, the team chose to push on toward Venice.

Winning Through Adversity

The decision proved decisive.

Despite the damaged propeller and loss of speed, the VÉHICULE Racing Team maintained its pace and reached the finish line ahead of the field.

But another challenge awaited.

During post-race scrutineering, Jan-Cees discovered a weight-calculation error. The boat weighed several kilograms less than intended, forcing the team into a faster and more competitive classification than originally planned.

What initially appeared to be a devastating mistake soon turned into a remarkable realization.

While reviewing the live timing data, the team discovered that no competitor had managed to better their time. Several challengers either finished behind them or failed to complete the course altogether.

Against the odds, the VÉHICULE Racing Team had won again.

Building on the Momentum of 2025

The 2026 victory follows the team’s breakthrough triumph in 2025, when Jan-Cees and Paul Korteland finally conquered the race after multiple attempts. Their victory last year marked a milestone for the team and demonstrated the persistence that has become synonymous with the VÉHICULE Racing Team.

Those achievements add another chapter to the brothers’ growing résumé, which already includes world championship success and dominant performances in some of Europe’s most demanding endurance races.

The post VÉHICULE Racing Team and YachtWorld Win Pavia-Venezia 2026 Against All Odds appeared first on boats.com.

When I heard that ACR, an electronics firm that is known for promoting and providing safety and survival equipment for marine and adventure sports using Emergency Position Indicator Radio Beacons (EPIRBs), was bringing electronic flares to the marine industry, I applauded. Why not use technology to update the use of pyrotechnic flares which seemed complicated and prohibitive in an offshore emergency situation? They can be complicated and prohibitive on land!

Above: Designed to meet U.S. Coast Guard requirements when paired with a distress flag, the ResQFlare PRO offers a safer and more sustainable approach to visual distress signaling. Photo By ACR Electronics.

Electronic Visual Distress Signaling Devices, (eVDSDs), or electronic flares, are logical and practical. Avoiding the risks to safety and the environment, posed by carrying and trying to light flares in a boating emergency, simply shooting a bright and traceable beam seems ultimately safer and easier.

While Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) requirements and mandates currently include pyrotechnic flares and flags, according to ACR, even the U.S. Coast Guard is currently phasing out pyrotechnic flares from its cutter vessels in favor of electronic alternatives. ACR hopes that this action and approval for electronic flares for recreational vessels in the U.S. will set an international precedent.

The problems with pyrotechnics include:

• Extreme Heat – Pyrotechnic flares burn at over one thousand degrees Celsius, often emitting molten slag and sparks with smoke and a flame—further complicated by high winds. And that is when they work–assuming that the boater has flares that are not out-of-date (under 42 months old, as required by regulations).
• Toxicity – Strontium nitrate and similar chemicals used on handheld rocket flares can fill the smoke emitted from the flames, irritating eyes, nose and throat, not to mention inhaled into lungs.
  Disposal – When expired, typically after three years, flares become hazardous waste. Without a method of safe disposal. Many fire departments advise to throw them away, adding toxins to trash sites, many of which consider this practice illegal dumping.
• Reliability – Flares can fail if they become damp, damaged in storage or compromised in the extreme marine environment. They may even explode. When functioning properly, the window of effectiveness is short—about one minute—after launching skyward, blazing for about 40 seconds and then disappearing. Further, flares cannot be tested in advance as a safety precaution.
• Transport and storage – Classified as Class 1 dangerous goods means that flare explosives are difficult and expensive to ship and transport, further complicating their use.

Electronic flares, which emit bright strobing LED patterns visible for miles can enhance other technological advances, including EPIRBs, Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponders Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) and Man Overboard (MOB devices and radios signals). Unlike pyrotechnics, a compact, rugged and waterproof eVDSD device can be operate continuously for hours and can be fitted with new batteries. They do not expire in three years, produce toxic waste or risk burning the operator. While not as bright as pyrotechnic flares, the beam can still be seen from several miles away and seems to offer a more reasonable alternative.

Above: Visible for miles and capable of operating for hours, electronic flares are helping reshape the future of marine safety and emergency response. Photo by ACR Electronics.

ACR has worked with the regulatory bodies to develop the buoyant ResQFlare PRO, which meets the requirement of Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services (RTCM 13200). The device uses red-orange and cyan LEDs, combined with an infrared (IR) component to offer substantial burn time, operations and improved visibility. Sold with a required daytime distress flag, the ResQFlare PRO are certified to meet applicable U.S. Coast Guard requirements and can be carried instead of traditional pyrotechnic flares in the U.S.

According to BOAT U.S. Foundation current USCG Approved Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals and Associated Devices include:

• Pyrotechnic red flares, hand held or aerial (3, hand-held for day & night, under 42 months of age.)
• Pyrotechnic orange smoke, hand held or floating (2)
• Launchers for aerial red meteors or parachute flares

The following details a combination of devices which can be carried in order to meet the requirements:

• Three hand-held red flares (day and night). Flares must be under 42 months of age.
• One electric distress light (night only).
• One hand-held red flare and two parachute flares (day and night). One hand-held orange smoke signal, two floating orange smoke signals (day) and one electric distress light (night only). Flares must be under 42 months of age.

More information at: https://boatus.org/study-guide/boating-equipment/visual-distress-signals/

Doesn’t that sound very complicated instead of carrying one electrical flare that covers all those requirements? It comes with a clamp that can be mounted on your boat if desired and operates like a giant flashlight.

The purpose of the regulations is obviously to assure that boaters have a way of attracting attention and securing assistance should the need arise. Properly used visual distress signals will also help reduce the time it takes to locate a boat in difficulty when a search is underway. This will reduce the possibility of a minor emergency becoming a tragedy. But why not use technology that can be more efficient, safe and effective?

Above: An electronic distress flare helps rescuers locate survivors in a life raft, providing hours of visibility without the risks associated with traditional pyrotechnic flares. Photo by ACR Electronics.

When it comes to commercial operation, it gets even more technical with regulations by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Cargo and passenger vessels of 500 gross tonnage and over engaged on international voyages and other vessels subject to national regulations, are finding that regulations related to carrying lifesaving appliances (LSA) onboard are changing. Regulatory momentum is building and ACR is calling for the IMO and other regulators to approve electronic flares as an equivalent option to pyrotechnics that can be recognized internationally as a distress signal.

Pyrotechnics could even be phased out in the future. But bureaucracies such as the IMO operate slowly. My inquiry about the organization’s stand on electronic flares yielded a long comment that included:
“On the issue of pyrotechnics, the Maritime Safety Committee last year decided to include in its post-biennial agenda (likely 2028/2029) an output on “Revision of resolution MSC.81(70) concerning requirements for testing the compliance of pyrotechnics”, assigning the SSE Sub-Committee as the associated organ to carry out the work.”

And that was only part of the convoluted response that included citing various regulation numbers. Obviously, ACR has its work cut out for it on the international commercial field, so we are lucky to have these devices available to us for recreational vessels in the U.S.

MSRP is $199.95 and available through marine retailers, ACR Electronics directly, or even at Amazon, where you can also get the lithium CR123 batteries—eight are needed to operate the electronic flare and they last for approximately 3 hours. Carrying spares is recommended. $19.99 for a 12 pack. There are less expensive versions that shoot only a white SOS signal, but how much is your safety worth?

Says Mikele D’Arcangelo, VP of Global Marketing & Product Management at ACR Electronics, “It is time to establish an international standard for eVDSDs that can be adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and other maritime agencies and to expedite changes to the international conventions and national regulations that would allow the carriage of modern alternative to pyrotechnic devices, including eVDSDs, instead of pyrotechnics.”

Amen. Verification from a recent ACR blog follows and provides further technical and regulatory details.

Understanding Electronic Boat Flares (below ResQFlare PRO and included daytime flag)

Electronic boat flares, also known as electronic visual distress signals (EVDS), utilize LED lights to simulate the appearance of traditional pyrotechnic flares. These devices offer several advantages over their pyrotechnic counterparts, including increased reliability, longer shelf life, and reduced environmental impact. Additionally, electronic flares are not classified as hazardous materials, making them easier to store and transport.

Compliance with Regulations (USCG Approved Flares)

The transition from pyrotechnic flares to electronic flares prompts questions about compliance with maritime regulations. In the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) mandates that all boats operating on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas, and those waters connected directly to them must carry visual distress signals. While traditional pyrotechnic flares meet USCG requirements, electronic flares must adhere to specific standards outlined in Title 46 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).

Electronic Flares must meet the USCG requirements (46 CFR 161.013), as an approved Night Visual Distress Signal. Example: ResQFlare USCG Approval

The merits of electronic flares versus traditional pyrotechnics speak for themselves and a clear indication of this is the shift towards electronic flares by USCG. In an All Coast Guard announcement (ALCOAST 234/25) published in May of 2025, USCG announced their transition from the requirement to carry three MK 124 Marine Smoke and Illumination Signals in the boat pyrotechnics kit to an approved Electronic Visual Distress Signaling Device (eVDSD). As per the USCG announcement (ALCOAST 234/25), “this transition enhances safety by providing a more reliable and longer-lasting distress signaling capability, and significantly reduces administrative burden…” The announcement goes on to highlight specific advantages of eVDSDs including, but not limited to, increased visibility, extended operational life, and enhanced safety.

Additional Requirements:

A Distress Flag, meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 160.072, must also be included in the package with every E-Flare in order to meet the approval for a Day Visual Distress Signal. Example: ACR Distress Flag USCG Approval

A Distress Flag, meeting the requirements of 46 CFR 160.072, must also be included in the package with every E-Flare in order to meet the approval for a Day Visual Distress Signal. Example: ACR Distress Flag USCG Approval

Combining the above, an Electronic Flare and a Distress Flag both compliant with USCG CFR, then the two products combined meet/exceed the requirement for carriage of approved day and night visual distress signals (found in 33 CFR part 175). All ACR Electronics Flares are supplied with an included Distress Flag to ensure compliance for U.S. recreational vessels wishing to replace their pyrotechnics with an approved Electronic Flare solution.

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Origins of the Raid Pavia-Venezia (1929)

The race was born on June 6, 1929, when a small but fearless group of pioneers departed from Pavia along the Ticino River. Their destination: the Venice Lagoon via the challenging Po River system. Navigating locks, shifting currents, and narrow waterways, they faced a true endurance trial.
The inaugural winner, Ettore Negri, completed the course in 11 hours, 26 minutes, and 23 seconds. In its early years, the Raid was less about raw speed and more about mechanical reliability, navigation skills, and sheer determination.

The Golden Hydroplane Era of the 1930s

The 1930s marked the race’s rise to prominence. Sleek wooden hydroplanes — known as Idroscivolante— dominated the waters. These elegant three-point designs transformed the event into a thrilling high-speed spectacle. Drivers like Count Franco Mazzotti became legends of the sport, helping establish the Raid Pavia-Venezia as one of Europe’s most prestigious motorboat competitions.

World War II Interruption and Post-War Return

Like many sporting events, the Raid Pavia-Venezia was halted during World War II. It made a strong comeback in 1952, returning with renewed energy and growing international interest.

The International Golden Age (1960s–1970s)

By the 1960s and 1970s, the Raid Pavia-Venezia had evolved into a true international classic. The golden era of offshore powerboat racing had reached Italy, attracting top international drivers, powerful outboard engines, and advanced fiberglass hulls. No longer just a local event, it became a premier destination for serious competitors seeking glory on Italy’s iconic waterways.

The Brutal Challenges of River Racing

Unlike short sprint races, the Raid Pavia-Venezia is a full-day endurance battle. Competitors must contend with:

• Strong river currents
• Narrow channels and low bridges
• Constantly changing water conditions
• Mechanical stress over hundreds of kilometers

Many boats never reach Venice due to failures or navigation errors, making finishing the race an achievement in itself.

Record-Breaking Speed Evolution

Technological progress has dramatically transformed the event. What once required over 11 hours now sees top drivers completing the 414 km course in just over two hours at astonishing average speeds. From the pioneering wooden boats of 1929 to the lightning-fast tunnel boats and catamarans of today, the race continues to showcase the cutting edge of powerboat technology.

A Century of Italian Motorsport Heritage

Nearly 100 years after its founding, the Raid Pavia-Venezia remains a pure test of man and machine. With only a few interruptions, this legendary river race has endured as one of Italy’s most iconic motorsport institutions. From Pavia to Venice, the Raid Pavia-Venezia continues to celebrate speed, endurance, and the timeless spirit of Italian competitive boating.

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Tubing Injuries Happen More Than You Think

Unlike more technical watersports, tubing requires no prior experience or special skills — just sit or lie across its air-filled surface and hang on for the ride. However, behind the laughter and fun of this simple activity lies the importance of safety: Tubing may seem like child’s play, but thousands of rider injuries occur each year.

The most frequent tubing injuries include:

• Sprains and strains
• Soft tissue injuries, like bruises
• Whiplash
• Herniated discs
• Fractures
• Concussions
• Drowning

Some injuries occur when riders hit the water, while others happen when riders hit one another. In fact, many injuries in riders under 20 involve riders colliding with each other, usually when too many people are riding a tube at once. In kids, head injuries are especially common, while adults are more likely to experience knee injuries, sprains, and back or neck injuries as a result of falling off the tube.

Tubing Safety Tips

Tubing behind a boat can be tons of fun, but it’s essential to approach this activity with caution and common sense to prevent unnecessary accidents and injuries. The best tubing safety tips are simple: inspect your gear, use properly fitting life jackets, match the ride to the rider, choose your location carefully, and keep the driver focused at all times.

Above: Tubing can be fun for kids of all ages, and it’s safe as long as certain precautions are followed.

Check Your Equipment

Before hitting the water, it’s crucial to inspect your tubing equipment and make sure it’s in top-notch condition. Tubes and tow ropes undergo significant stress during use, so regular inspections are a must.

• Replace any worn or frayed ropes and connection points.
• Check the tube’s fabric cover for signs of wear and tear.
• Make sure handles are secure and not pulling loose.
• Properly inflate tubes before each trip, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Use a tow rope designed specifically for tubing, not a wakeboard or waterski rope.
• Securely attach tow ropes only to a proper tow point on your vessel.

These steps take just a few minutes but are essential for a safe and enjoyable tubing experience. One of the most important tubing safety tips is to remember that a towable tube creates a lot of drag, especially with multiple riders, so the rope, tube, and tow point all need to be rated for the job.

For additional guidance on equipment safety and maintenance, websites like Overton’s and West Marine offer resources and product information to help you make informed decisions about your tubing gear.

Above: Make sure the inflatable is blown up to the proper tension, and that any protective cover is firmly in place.

Wear Proper Safety Gear While Tubing

At minimum, all towed riders should wear a properly fitting personal flotation device (PFD) at all times. This PFD should fit snugly but not tight, and be properly rated for the wearer’s weight. You can also check the fit by having the wearer raise their arms over their head and lift up on the shoulders of the vest; if the jacket rides up past their ears, it’s too big.

A tube is not a flotation device, and neither is confidence. Everyone on the tube should wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket that fits correctly and is in good condition.

Rash guards are recommended to protect against chafing, especially for children. These can also help with sun protection, along with your choice of sunscreen. For younger riders, sunglasses straps, secure swimwear, and avoiding loose items can also help keep the ride more comfortable.

Choose the Right Toys

There are so many different styles of tubes available today, but matching the age and abilities of the riders to the appropriate tubing toys is crucial.

While extreme towables may be great for older teens and adults, they’re not suitable for young children. Conversely, putting multiple adult riders on a small children’s tube can be equally dangerous. Be sure to choose toys that match the number of riders as well as their age, size, and experience level to ensure a safe experience for all.

Follow the manufacturer’s stated rider capacity, weight limits, recommended tow rope strength, and speed guidance. Those details are not suggestions to ignore once the music is on and everyone wants “one more ride.” They are part of the design limits of the tube.

Above: Choose a proper towrope, and make sure it is properly connected.

Find the Perfect Spot

Tubing in open water away from other boat traffic can enhance safety and enjoyment for everyone onboard. While it may be challenging to avoid crowded waterways during peak summer months, seeking out quieter spots can reduce the risk of accidents and collisions, and also make for a smoother ride.

Look for a wide, open area with good visibility, enough depth, and plenty of room to turn without sending the tube toward docks, anchored boats, swimmers, shorelines, shallow areas, or other traffic. Avoid tubing in narrow channels, marina entrances, congested areas, or anywhere the driver cannot safely maintain a wide awareness zone.

Keep Speeds Age-Appropriate

One of the easiest tubing safety tips to overlook is speed control. Tubing does not need to be extreme to be fun, especially for children or first-time riders. In fact, fast turns can sling a tube across the wake at a much higher speed than the boat itself, which is when riders can lose control, collide, or hit the water hard.

Start slow, especially with younger riders, and increase speed only if the rider is comfortable and the conditions are calm. Watch body language closely. If a rider looks scared, tense, or unable to hold on, slow down or end the ride. A good tubing driver is not trying to launch everyone into orbit; they’re trying to create a fun ride that matches the rider.

Above: Choose a speed appropriate to your occupant’s age and fears.

Use a Spotter and Hand Signals

Boat operators should practice 360-degree awareness at all times, but especially when pulling riders behind the vessel. The driver needs to watch the water ahead, other boat traffic, markers, no-wake zones, and hazards. That means a dedicated spotter is essential.

• Have a designated spotter onboard to watch the tuber at all times.
• Agree on simple hand signals before the ride starts, such as speed up, slow down, stop, and I’m okay.
• Make sure the spotter alerts the driver immediately if a rider falls off, seems distressed, or wants to end the ride.
• Circle back slowly and carefully when retrieving a fallen rider.

The spotter should not be distracted by a phone, a conversation, or the cooler. Their job is to watch the rider and communicate clearly with the driver.

Stay Alert

Safe tubing requires alertness from everyone: the driver, spotter, riders, and passengers onboard. Conditions can change quickly, especially when other boats, waves, wind, and fatigue enter the mix.

• Stay vigilant and alert to your surroundings, anticipating potential hazards and reacting accordingly.
• Know your waterway before you go out to avoid surprises.
• Watch for other boat traffic and make sure you’re aware of right-of-way rules.
• Avoid sharp turns in crowded areas.
• Give fallen riders plenty of space and approach slowly.
• Never let anyone ride if they are too tired, cold, scared, or not feeling well.

By practicing mindfulness and following practical tubing safety tips, you can ensure that your tubing adventures are safe, fun-filled, and memorable for all the right reasons.

Get CPR Certified

Every boater hopes they’ll never need emergency skills, but CPR and basic first aid training can make a critical difference if something goes wrong on the water. Tubing injuries can involve hard falls, head impacts, breathing trouble, and drowning risks, so at least one adult onboard should know what to do in an emergency.

Before boating season begins, consider taking a CPR and first aid course through a recognized organization such as the American Red Cross. It’s also smart to keep a stocked first aid kit onboard, know the location of the nearest marina or launch ramp, and have a working VHF radio or charged phone available in case you need to call for help.

Make the Fun Last

Tubing is supposed to be joyful, silly, and just the right amount of chaotic. The goal is laughter, not injuries. With the right equipment, proper life jackets, a responsible driver, a focused spotter, and smart speed choices, tubing can be one of the easiest ways to get the whole family grinning on the water.

Use these tubing safety tips before every ride, not just the first trip of the season. A few minutes of preparation can help make sure the day ends with tired kids, great photos, and everyone asking when they can go again.

For more watersports action, check out the following:

• How to Water Ski
• How to Kneeboard
• How to Wakeboard
• How to Wakesurf
• How to Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP)
• Essential Tow-Boat Glossary

activity, offering endless thrills and laughter for kids and adults alike. It can be a blast for kids of all ages, with its simple yet exhilarating ride eliciting giggles and excitement from everyone on board. But like any watersport, safety while tubing should always be a top priority to ensure everyone’s enjoyment.

Tubing Injuries Happen More Than You Think

Unlike more technical watersports, tubing requires no prior experience or special skills — just sit or lie across its air-filled surface and hang on for the ride! However, behind the laughter and fun of this simple activity lies the importance of safety: Tubing may seem like child’s play, but thousands of rider injuries occur each year.

The most frequent tubing injuries include:

• Sprains and strains (27%)
• Soft tissue injuries, like bruises (20%)
• Whiplash
• Herniated discs
• Fractures
• Concussions
• Drowning

Some of these occur when riders hit the water while others happen when riders hit one another. In fact, most injuries in those under 20 involved riders hitting each other, usually when too many people were riding a tube at once. In kids, head injuries are the most common while in adults, it’s knee injuries, sprains, and back or neck injuries as a result of falling off the tube.

How to Stay Safe While Tubing

Tubing behind a boat can be tons of fun, but it’s essential to approach this activity with caution and common sense to prevent unnecessary accidents and injuries. Here are some quick tips for safe family tubing as we approach high season on the water.

Above: Tubing can be fun for kids of all ages, and it’s safe as long as certain precautions are followed.

Check Your Equipment

Before hitting the water, it’s crucial to inspect your tubing equipment and make sure it’s in top-notch condition.

• Tubes and tow ropes undergo significant stress during use, so regular inspections are a must.
• Replace any worn or frayed ropes and connection points.
• Check the tube’s fabric cover for signs of wear and tear.
• Properly inflate tubes before each trip.
• Securely attach tow ropes to your vessel.

These steps take just a few minutes but are essential for a safe and enjoyable tubing experience.

For additional guidance on equipment safety and maintenance, websites like Overton’s and West Marine offer comprehensive resources and product reviews to help you make informed decisions about your tubing gear.

Above: Make sure the inflatable is blown up to the proper tension, and that any protective cover is firmly in place.

Wear Proper Safety Gear While Tubing

At minimum, all towed riders should wear a properly fitting personal flotation device (PFD) at all times. This PFD should fit snugly but not tight, and be properly rated for the wearer’s weight. You can also check the fit by having the wearer raise their arms over their head and lift up on the shoulders of the vest; if the jacket rides up past their ears, it’s too big. 

Rash guards are recommended to protect against chafing, especially for children. These can also help with sun protection, along with your choice of sunscreen.

Choose the Right Toys

There are so many different styles of tubes available today, but matching the age and abilities of the riders to the appropriate tubing toys is crucial.

While extreme towables may be great for older teens, they’re not suitable for young children. Conversely, putting multiple adult riders on a small children’s tube can be equally dangerous. Be sure to choose toys that match the number of riders as well as their age and experience level, to ensure a safe experience for all.

Above: Choose a proper towrope, and make sure it is properly connected.

Find the Perfect Spot

Tubing in open water away from other boat traffic can enhance safety and enjoyment for everyone onboard. While it may be challenging to avoid crowded waterways during peak summer months, seeking out quieter spots can reduce the risk of accidents and collisions, and also make for a smoother ride.

Stay Alert

Boat operators should practice 360-degree awareness at all times, but especially when pulling riders behind the vessel.

• Stay vigilant and alert to your surroundings, anticipating potential hazards and reacting accordingly.
• Know your waterway before you go out to avoid surprises.
• Watch for other boat traffic and make sure you’re aware of right-of-way rules.
• Have a designated spotter onboard to watch the tuber and alert you if they fall off, seem distressed, or want to end their ride.

By practicing mindfulness and following these practical tips, you can ensure that your tubing adventures are safe, fun-filled, and memorable for all the right reasons.

Above: Choose a speed appropriate to your occupant’s age and fears.

Get CPR Certified

s

For more watersports action, check out the following:

• How to Water Ski
• How to Kneeboard
• How to Wakeboard
• How to Wakesurf
• How to Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP)
• Essential Tow-Boat Glossary

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• AB Inflatables
• Argo Nautic
• G3
• Sea Doo
• Scarab
• Thunder Jet
• Watersports Car
• Williams
• Yamaha
• Yamaha Boats

AB Inflatables

One of the best jet boat brands catering to those who need jet-powered tenders is AB Inflatables, which makes a huge range of inflatable boats including RIBs with both fiberglass and aluminum hulls, center console RIBs, and dinghies. In fact, AB Inflatables also made a showing in our roundup of the best inflatable and rib boat brands. In this case, they make the list by virtue of their Jet Tender series. These boats range from 9’6” to 15’ and include both diesel and gasoline jet engines. Like most tenders they’re loaded with seating, though several models do double-duty as day-boats with sunpads, ski tow bits, and swim platforms with boarding ladders.

See AB Inflatables jet boats for sale on boats.com.

Argo Nautic

Argos Nautic is a builder of tenders designed to appeal to those as interested in luxury and style as in getting from Point A to Point B. They utilize different propulsion systems for different model lines and have two jet powered boats in their Luxury Jet Tender Series, the Jet 9.5 and the Jet 11. These stand out from the crowd with the level of customization they provide; buyers can choose different colors, Hypalon colors and textures, upholstery, and flooring options, to match up with the mother ship’s looks.

See Argos Nautic jet boats for sale on boats.com.

G3

Aluminum boat builder G3 offers several series of fishing and hunting boats, including a line designed for jet outboards called the Gator Tough Tunnel Jons. With a tunnel integrated into the hull and no need for a lower unit beneath the waterline these offer minimal draft and are ideal for running rocky rivers and extremely shallow waters. There are nine models stretching from 17’ to 20’, all of which are laid out with a center console design except for one tiller-steer version. Highlights include elevated forward and aft decks, integrated stowage compartments, livewells, and in several cases flip-up jump seats and/or bow-mount electric trolling motors.

Scarab

Scarab earns its place among the best jet boat brands as one of the few major builders of traditional recreational fiberglass pleasure boats designed for all-around family fun. They build three model lines including the Wake (general recreation), the Wake Sport (for wake surfing and watersports), and the Multi-Sport (center consoles designed for fishing). These range from 15’9” to 28’0” and all are powered by BRP Rotax four-stroke inboards with jet drives. In a unique twist, Scarab is also the only jet boat builder to offer a production model that has a center console design yet is intended for wake sports, and can be equipped with ballast tanks, board racks on the T-top, a ski tow bar, and an onboard inflation system for water-toys.

See Scarab jet boats for sale on boats.com.

Sea Doo

Sea Doo is best known for their personal watercraft, which certainly do count as boats. The model lineup includes waterbikes geared towards touring, performance, recreation, and even fishing. However, Sea Doo also offers the only dedicated jet boat around that’s also a pontoon boat. The Sea Doo Switch is a pontoon with a modular deck layout, powered by a Rotax jet drive and controlled at the helm with PWC-like handlebars rather than a steering wheel. The lineup shocked the boating world with its uniqueness when it was introduced, and for 2026 the Switch family continues to stand apart with modular layouts, jet propulsion, and multiple versions built for cruising, fishing, and watersports.

See Sea Doo jet boats for sale on boats.com.

Thunder Jet

Thunder Jet boats are welded aluminum fishing boats built in the Pacific Northwest, with models intended for both rivers and the ocean. Offering a dozen models from 18’6” to 32’3”, the lineup includes a mix of open and cabin boats. All are designed for all-weather use, however, and even the open boats have oversized windshield and Bimini tops. Rather than having inboards and jet drives, these boats are designed to have jet outboards mounted on the transoms. Originally founded back in 1981, today Thunder Jet is part of the Brunswick family of boatbuilders.

See Thunder Jet jet boats for sale on boats.com.

Watersports Car

Okay, the “boats” built by this brand are certainly more of a novelty than anything else, but how cool would you feel zipping around the lake in a sportscar? Models are available in two- and four-seat versions, with several different models in modern and classic styling. Power is provided by a Yamaha 1.8L high-output or supercharged jet engine in 180 or 250 hp, and under those tires there’s a 16’2” bona fide fiberglass hull. Plus, to make it feel more car-like they feature adjustable seating, a foot-pedal throttle, and of course a booming stereo system.

See Watersports Car boats for sale on boats.com.

Williams

Among the best jet boat brands for yacht tenders, Williams is one of the most recognizable names, though they also make several RIB jets large enough and well-outfitted enough to serve as primary vessels. On the flip side of the coin, they also offer some of the smallest jet tenders around including the tiny 9’2” MiniJet. Their model line includes both gasoline and diesel powered jet boats with Rotax and Yanmar powerplants. Most of these come fully featured with accessories like electronics packages, faux teak decking, auto fire extinguish systems, and extensive seating, and Williams offers a long list of tender-oriented accessories like towing and tie-down kits.

See Williams jet boats for sale on boats.com.

Yamaha

Another PWC brand that enjoys an excellent reputation and immense popularity is Yamaha. Their line of Waverunners includes 20 models which run on a mix of Yamaha’s own TR-1, 1.9L High Output, and Super Vortex High Output supercharged four-stroke engines. Cruisers, high-performance, recreational, and stand-up models are all among the offerings. They’re known for exceptional performance and being outfitted for comfort and fun, with features like integrated trimming systems, reboarding steps, waterproof stereo systems, and the “Rec Deck” which allows for customizing the PWC with various accessories.

See Yamaha Waverunner PWCs for sale on boats.com.

Yamaha Boats

The name Yamaha is back again, but this time for a different reason: this company also has a lineup of jet boats, and Yamaha Boats remains one of the best jet boat brands for recreational runabouts. In fact, Yamaha boats are some of the most popular runabouts in the 19’ to 27’ range on the water today. They offer a full lineup of 19’, 22’, 25’, and 27’ boats, most of which are oriented towards general recreation and watersports with bowrider layouts. They also offer a lineup of center console fishing jet boats as well as a Wake Series designed for wake surfing, with features like tow towers and ballast systems. Yamaha is also the only production jet boat builder around to offer joystick controls on a jet boat, in the form of Helm Master EX on the 255 FSH Sport H. Many boaters like the way Yamaha outfits and sells these boats, too, providing different model levels with a set list of accessories rather than offering long lists of standard and optional features that can make pricing difficult to judge.

See Yamaha jet boats for sale on boats.com.

If you’re looking for a tender for your yacht, you want a day-boat that provides endless thrill rides and watersports fun, or you need to run the rocky rapids in a river, there’s a good chance a jet boat lies in your future. And if you want one of the best jet boat brands around, there’s an even better chance that one of these top 10 picks will fit the bill. So check out all the jet boats for sale on boats.com and keep on looking until you find that perfect boat for your own personal needs and desires.

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1. Bowriders
2. Cruisers
3. Freshwater Fishing Boats
4. Runabouts
5. Sailboats
6. Saltwater Fishing Boats
7. Speed Boats
8. Pontoon Boats
9. Trawlers
10. Watersports Boats

Read on to learn all about the specifics of each boat type and how they might suit your needs.

Bowriders

Bowrider Formula 330 Crossover Express Cruiser. Image credit: Formula

Bowriders are an extremely popular boat type and for good reason. They can be used for everything from simple day-tripping to water skiing. And while in the past bowriders were limited in size and scope, recently we’ve seen a push towards larger and larger models, often with accommodations ranging from enclosed heads to full-blown cabins. The most extreme example is the Four Winns H440, a monstrous boat with a bow cockpit accessed by walking through a saloon with niceties like a full galley and a settee. Other large bowriders that have hit the market recently include the Sea Ray SLX-R 400e.

Most of us, however, will be more interested in the classic bowrider styles in the 18’ to 26’ range. These are far less expensive than the bigger versions, yet they still enable a family to enjoy a long list of waterborne activities. Most are powered by stern drives, though there are plenty of outboard options out there, too. Due to the latest emissions regulations, the cost of stern drives has gone up a bit and evened the playing field with outboards as far as cost goes. There are plusses and minuses to each power choice; read Outboard Engines on Bowriders: A Match Made in Heaven? to learn about the trade-offs of each.

What’s the down-side of choosing this design? As is often the case, maximizing versatility means minimizing specificity. While bowriders are a good boat type for a lot of different activities, they aren’t absolutely ideal for any one activity. Also, remember that the vast majority of bowriders are relatively unprotected boats and are only meant for use in good weather.

If you think a bowrider might be the best boat type for you and your family, be sure to read Bow Rider Key Considerations Before You Buy.

Check out thousands of bowriders for sale on boats.com.

Cruisers

2021 Cruiser yachts 50 Cantius. Image credit: Strong Yachts

This class encompasses a wide range of different styles and sizes. In its most basic form, a cruiser is any powerboat with overnight accommodations, a galley, and the range to take you to new and distant ports. They generally have relatively fast cruising speeds (or they’d likely fall into the trawler category) and thid boat type can range anywhere from 30’ or so on up into the 100’ mega-yacht sizes. Most are powered with inboards, stern drives, or pod drives, although there are also a few outboard-powered cruisers out there. (Read Marine Engines and Power Systems: The Basics Behind What Powers Your Powerboat to learn more about each of these power systems). Cruisers can be separated further into these boat types:

• Aft Cabin Cruisers

  Aft cabin cruisers have a cabin located all the way aft in the boat for space and privacy. The down-side to this design is that it restricts outdoor space quite a bit, and on some aft cabin cruisers, the flybridge steering station may be the only spot in which you can enjoy some sunshine. Though they were very popular years ago, today few true aft cabin cruisers are built. One exception is the Broom 430 Aft Cabin. And if you really like this design, there are plenty of used aft cabin cruisers on the market.

• Convertibles

  These are cruisers with a flying bridge, like those found on the Silverton 36, or the Tiara 50. Although many convertibles are designed for saltwater fishing (more on these, later) a good number are also designed for simple pleasure cruising. They almost always have a steering station up on the bridge, and many have a second one down below in the cabin. That makes them a good choice for people who expect to be out in all kinds of weather. If you regularly pass under low bridges, however, owning a convertible can be problematic, to say the least. Many people also prefer the sleeker looks of some other types of cruisers.

• Express Cruisers

  This category of cruiser is low-slung and fast, with a cockpit aft, a helm deck amidships, and staterooms forward. Some good examples of express cruisers of various shapes and sizes are the Jeanneau Leader 36, the Hunt 44 Express Cruiser, and the Sunseeker Predator 68. While they don’t have the elevated, open steering stations found on boats with a flybridge, many modern express cruisers do have opening sunroofs and plenty of windows, so enjoying fresh air and sunshine is no problem. Read Choosing the Perfect Express Cruiser, before you go shopping for one of these boats.

• Motor Yachts

  Just where does one draw the line between a motor yacht and other types of cruisers? It’s debatable, but most people would agree that once you go beyond the 50-foot mark with boats like the Outer Reef 580, much less a boat like the Princess 75 Motor Yacht, the term most certainly applies. And while the price tag for a true motor yacht can be rather extreme, when it comes to luxury, this type of cruiser can’t be beat. Read Motor Yachts are the Best Luxury Cruisers, to find out why.

• Pocket Cruiser

  A very small cruiser with limited accommodations (usually for just one couple) is called “pocket cruiser”. Sometimes these even drop beneath the 30’ mark, with boats like the Cutwater Solara 24. They’re often popular with retired couples, who want to explore new places but not necessarily live aboard the boat, or make extended voyages.

Leaf through the 10,000-plus listings for cruisers for sale found on boats.com.

Freshwater Fishing Boats

Sailfish 241 CC fishing boat. Image credit: Sailfish

Whether you want to go casting for bass or trolling for lake trout, a freshwater fishing boat is a must-have. And while there are numerous sub-categories and specialized, species-specific boats out there, we’re going to break this category of boat type down into three main choices that encompass the range: bass boats, multi-species boats, and aluminum fishing boats.

• Bass Boats

  —These are highly specialized boats with only one mission in mind: catching largemouth bass. To accomplish this goal, they’re lightning-fast, equipped with accessories like bow-mounted electric trolling motors and high-tech fishfinders, and they have livewells that keep the catch healthy until it’s time for weigh-ins at the tournament dock. All these goodies do, however, carry a cost, and foot-for-foot bass boats tend to be some of the most expensive freshwater fishing boats around. Since they’re so specialized, they also aren’t ideal for many other forms of fishing. You say you’d like to check out some of the hottest bass boats on the face of the planet? Read 10 Bass Boats that Will Blow You Away: Cast Action Heroes.

Visit some bass boats for sale.

• Multi-Species Boats

  —These predators of America’s inland waterways have a more diverse appeal than bass boats, so they come in a wider range of flavors. Some have open side-consoles, some have tall protective windshields at the helm, and some even have center consoles. Ready to look at some examples? Both the Princecraft Sport 177 and the Skeeter MX 2025 are multi-species boats, even though they’re quite different in nature. They do, however, share one thing in common: fishing. As a result, most multi-species boats have livewells, rod boxes, pedestal-mounted seats, and other fishing accouterments that help you get those fish out of the lake, and into the frying pan. The vast majority are powered by outboards and are appropriate for use on a wide variety of waterways.

• Aluminum Fishing Boats

  —One of the most popular boats on the face of the planet is the simple aluminum jon boat. And while there are certainly lots of more developed aluminum fishing boats out there, including multi-species boats made of aluminum, one thing all aluminum fishing boats share in common is a significant price advantage. Consider the Polarkraft Kodiak Sport, which comes fully equipped—including a trailer and a 90 HP outboard—for less than $25,000. Or check out the Lowe Stinger 175, which can be had for under $15,000. Or, go shopping for one of those simple jon boats. Comparatively speaking, you’ll be blown away by how affordable they really are. No, most don’t look quite as nice as fiberglass boats, and it’s true that some ride rather rough, but aluminum has several other advantages, too. To get the full scoop on this class of boat, take a gander at Aluminum Fishing Boats: Light, Economical, and Seaworthy.

Yes, there are plenty of aluminum fishing boats for sale for you to check out, too.

Pontoon Boats

SunCatcher 322 SS pontoon boat. Image credit: SunCatcher

Whether you’re on a lake in Arizona or a bay on the Atlantic Seaboard, you’re probably going to see plenty of pontoon boats. Instead of riding on a fiberglass hull, this boat type has two or sometimes three aluminum “logs” they float upon. Once upon a time they were slow and pokey, rather ugly, and not very seaworthy, but these are all problems of the past. Today, pontoon boats can be fast, slick-looking, and shockingly comfortable to ride on.

True, this boat type isn’t the best pick for bodies of water that regularly experience large waves. But they’re extremely stable, they have gobs of deck space, and their modular nature means you can choose from endless seating arrangements and even add things like wet-bars, towing arches, and more. Check out the Premier Sunsation 270, for example, and you’ll discover a double-decker, triple-log pontoon with twin Yamaha F300 outboards and a water slide that shoots you into the lake from the second story.

Pontoon Boats will help you figure out the ins and outs of this class of boats in detail. You should also read The Outboard Expert: Outboards for Pontoon Boats because pontoons do have some special needs when it comes to choosing the right outboard motor. And if you still think of grandpa’s party barge when the topic of pontoons comes up, give us the chance to change your mind by watching our Performance Pontoon Boats Video: The Need for Speed. Spoiler Alert: Yes, we do break 60 MPH on a production pontoon boat.

Visit some pontoon boats for sale—we have well over 10,000 of them right now, on boats.com.

Runabouts

A Yamaha runaround boat on the water. Image: Yamaha

The term “runabout” is really a catch-all that includes everything from bowriders to combination ski-and-fish boats to small speed boats. The thing these all share in common is that they’re small, open boats intended for day use in fair weather. And while their exposed nature of this boat type will be considered a drawback by some boaters, it should be considered an advantage, too—you don’t buy a boat to get away from the sunshine and spray, do you?

Learn more about this broad class of boats by checking out our Runabout explore page, or find out which new runabouts topped our list in Most Affordable Runabouts.

Here are the runabouts for sale you were waiting for.

Sailboats

Jeanneau sun odyssey 410 review. Image credit: Jeanneau

Sailing isn’t for everybody, but this classic boat type is in a class of its own. It requires developing skills in setting the sails and steering to the ever-changing wind. But if you’re the type for whom the journey can be at least as rewarding as the destination, and an environmentally friendly ride is also important, consider choosing a boat with a mast and sails. For more on this, read Five Reasons You Should Own a Sailboat.

• Daysailers

  —Usually 13 to 30 feet in overall length, daysailers are open-cockpit boats with one or two sails that can set you and a small crew free quickly to listen to nothing but the sound of your own bow wave and the wind in your sails. Many daysailers, like the Catalina 275 Sport also carry a small outboard engine for those days when the wind dies or there is a tight entrance into the harbor.

• Cruisers

  —At its most complex, a fully fitted sail cruiser can be your transportation and your home on an adventure that takes you away for the weekend to a nearby island, or a few years in the South Pacific. Boat range from pocket cruisers of 20 to 30 feet like the Com-Pac 23 up to luxurious 60-footers with several cabins like the Amel 64.

• Performance/Racers

  —If you’d like a sailboat with an extra turn of speed, there are many lightweight designs, including multihulls like the Corsair Sprint. Sailboat racing is another world—an intellectual as well as athletic competition in which you can race in a variety of formats and boats from modern carbon-fiber raceboats and wooden classics, to foiling dinghies and ultralight catamarans, and even heavy cruising sailboats headed to distant shores.

For more on sailboats, see our story on Sailing Terms: Sailboat Types, Rigs, Uses and Definitions. Once you feel like you’ve got a handle on things and it’s time to start shopping, you can visit these .

Also be sure to check out our How to Sail a Boat article and video, which will help you properly hoist your sails and trim your lines.

Saltwater Fishing Boats

Saltwater Fishing Boats. Image credit: Albemarle 30 Express

If you like to prowl the mangroves for redfish and snook, ply the rips for striped bass, or run offshore in search of tunas and marlin, there’s a saltwater fishing boat in your future. Yes, this is another incredibly broad range of boats, which we’ll have to break down a bit for this boat type:

• Bay Boats

  —These low-slung, shallow draft boats are designed to ply inshore waters. Many larger models, like the Pathfinder 2600, also offer some offshore capabilities. Others, such as the Ranger RP 190, are designed for smaller waters but cost a whole lot less. Virtually all bay boats are also center consoles and are powered by outboards. Most don’t offer much in the way of creature comforts, but some do have heads in the console, or snap-in cushions that turn the casting deck into a sunpad. Get the scoop on this design by reading our Bay Boat explore page.

• Center Consoles

  —These are the most popular saltwater fishing boats of all, and you’ll find them ranging from dinghy-sized all the way up to the world’s largest center console, the Hydra-Sports 53 Suenos. Like bay boats, a lack of creature comforts is a common complaint on center consoles. But many manufacturers make versions of their fishing boats that are quite cushy, these days. Look at the Boston Whaler 420 Outrage, for example, and you’ll discover a console cabin with a settee and television, a bow cockpit with luxury seating, and a “summer kitchen” with an optional built-in electric grill. Read our Center Console explore page to learn about some of the other options you may want to consider, when looking at center console fishing boats.

• Convertibles

  —Offshore anglers who want the comfort of a big cabin often opt for a convertible. These boats are usually inboards or they run on pod drives, but their most significant defining features are large aft cockpits and tall flying bridges. Inside they’re often rather opulent for fishing boats, especially on big and bodacious models like the Viking 80. However, even the smallest sportfishing convertibles, like the Laural Point 36, are quite comfortable inside.

• Expresses

  —Some offshore captains prefer express-style fishing boats, since they keep the helm closer to the action. On an express, you can dart from the wheel to the rod in a matter of seconds. But they do lose a lot of cabin space as compared to a convertible since there’s a bridgedeck where the saloon would otherwise be. The convertible-versus-express debate has raged among offshore anglers for years, and you can hear both sides of the story in Convertible Vs Express: Which is Best for Bluewater Fishing.

• Walkarounds

  —Smaller fishing boats with cabins that have side-decks around the topsides are called walkarounds. They’re a good compromise for many folks who need to have a cabin but also want to reclaim some of the bow area to use for fishing space. This design isn’t quite as popular as it once was but you can still find plenty of examples out there, like the Robalo R245, or the Parker 23.

To learn more about saltwater fishing boats in detail, read Saltwater Fishing Boats.

To start your shopping spree, see these saltwater fishing boats listings.

Speedboats

Cigarette 515 speedboat available for custom  order 2022. Image credit: Marine-Partner-Network GmbH & Co. KG

Speed junkies, get ready to rumble. Fast speeds are utterly hair-raising when experienced aboard a boat. While it’s true that this boat type tends make a lot of sacrifices to squeeze out every possible MPH (cabins are small and devoid of accessories to keep weight down, they’re often quite loud, and seating space is limited), if you want a real thrill ride, there’s simply no substitute. All speed boats are not, of course, created equally. We delve into the differences, in our High Performance Power Boats explore page.

Check out some high performance speed boats for sale.

Trawlers

Trawlers enjoy a small but dedicated following. These are slow-and-steady cruisers, patterned after commercial fishing trawlers but built today with comfort and range foremost in mind. They’re often single-engine boats which perform most efficiently at relatively slow speeds of seven or eight knots, yet many also have the power to get on plane and run at or close to 20 knots—albeit at the sacrifice of efficiency—when a quick return to port is necessary.

Trawlers come in many sizes, ranging from boats like the Beneteau Swift 30, to the opulent Nordhavn 52. If cost is a concern, you may want to check out the boats we ID’d as good buys in Five Affordable Trawlers Under 40 Feet.

Visit some trawler boats for sale and see if you spot your next boat.

Watersports Boats

Cobalt R5 surf boat is ideal for waterskiing. Image: Cobalt

Wakeboarding, water skiing, and the latest watersports craze—wake surfing—are all enjoyed behind the transom of a watersports boat. Also known as “tow boats,” this genre has a towing point for watersports, which is often elevated on an arch or a pole that mounts at or near the transom. The latest and greatest models, like the Mastercraft X26 or the Super Air Nautique G25, can be outfitted with special trim tabs and water ballast tanks that let you boost wave size and even “shape” wakes for better surfing and boarding.

Watersports boats usually have either inboard V-drive or stern-drive power, but serious boarders commonly prefer inboards. This may be changing, however, with the advent of Volvo Penta’s Forward Drive. This unique system mounts a forward-facing drive unit on a stern-drive, which moves the propeller far forward under the boat to enhance safety. At the same time, since the drive is trim-able (unlike inboard shafts) it gives the captain one more way to shape the waves.

The down-side to dedicated watersports boats is a lack of versatility. Sure, you can still take one across the river to your favorite restaurant. But activities like fishing, overnighting, and (due to increased draft) even beaching the boat are rather impractical. These are specific boats that fulfill a very specific niche, which you can learn more about by reading Watersports: All Things Towable.

Or, if your mind is already made up, just go ahead and take in all these ski and wakeboard boats for sale.

Well, have you made up your mind? Have you culled through all these choices, and landed on a winner? If so, congratulations—now get busy, and start boat shopping. If not, the only way to really know which boat’s best for you is to get out on the water and try ‘em out. So again we say congratulations—your indecision means that now, you need to go out on as many different boats as possible, as often as possible, until you make up your mind. Good luck and have fun.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in July 2016, and last updated in January 2024.

The post Choosing the Right Boat Type for Your Needs appeared first on boats.com.

Offshore powerboat racing was once one of the most extreme motorsports in America. During the 1970s and 1980s, races in Miami, Key West, and Nassau brought together legendary brands like Cigarette, Apache, Formula, Donzi, Skater, and Fountain, all competing at full throttle in rough offshore conditions.

At the center of the sport was South Florida’s offshore culture — a world fueled by racing, sponsorship money, nightlife, and larger-than-life personalities. But as federal crackdowns intensified, sponsorships disappeared, and operating costs exploded, the offshore racing industry began to change.

The documentary From Cigarettes to Center Consoles: What Happened to Offshore Powerboat Racing? explores how the industry evolved from factory-backed race boats into today’s outboard-powered center-console market. It examines the rise of legendary offshore builders like Bertram, Cigarette Racing, Apache, Magnum Marine, and Fountain Powerboats, while also looking at how modern brands adapted to survive in a changing marine industry.

The Decline of the Offshore Racing Era

By the early 1990s, offshore racing was becoming increasingly difficult to sustain. Tobacco and alcohol sponsorship money faded, insurance costs increased, and many of the major personalities tied to the sport disappeared from the scene. Offshore manufacturers could no longer survive by building race boats alone.

As the market changed, companies shifted toward recreational offshore products aimed at a broader consumer audience.

How Center Consoles Took Over

Brands like Fountain helped pioneer the modern high-performance center console by combining offshore racing hull technology with fishing and recreational layouts. Eventually, even traditional offshore companies such as Cigarette, Formula, Bertram, and MTI entered the center-console market as buyer demand moved toward larger outboard-powered boats.

Today, much of the offshore industry still carries racing DNA beneath the surface, but the focus has shifted away from pure competition and toward luxury, versatility, and consumer boating.

The post What Happened to Offshore Powerboat Racing? appeared first on boats.com.