Powerboats Overview

The way a powerboat will be used is the determining factor in the selection of the type of hull and engine the designer chooses. The two main types of cruising are coastal and blue water cruising. Normally, for a powerboat to be efficient for extended cruising should be either a full displacement or a semi displacement hull. The coastal cruising boat can be of the displacement type or can have a planning hull such as a deep V or a modified V. The extended cruiser or passage maker is designed to carry a lot of fuel and supplies in order to achieve its goal of long range and safety. The coastal cruiser doesn't need all that extra fuel and other supplies since the boat will usually be close enough to fuel sources and facilities for acquiring any needed items.

There are only three basic ways to propel a boat through water. The first method uses oars or paddles operated by human power. This is sometimes humorously referred to as the Armstrong Propulsion System.

The second method, sailing, uses the wind to drive the boat. In the tongue-in-cheek rivalry that exists in the boating world, sailing is called Rag Bagging by power boaters.

The third method of boat propulsion uses generated power. A powerboat employs some form of mechanical device to develop horsepower, using steam, electricity, gasoline or Diesel fuel. Power is then transferred to the water so that the boat is propelled either forward or backward.

There are millions of powerboats chugging or zooming all over the oceans, lakes, and rivers of the world. Whether you are the operator of a 6 foot pram with a 1HP electric motor or the captain of a 20,000 HP mega-yacht, you are power boating.

There is a boat for everyone and one for every budget. To get the most out of your boating experience, it is important to find the right boat for you.