The Best Types of Boats For Water Sport
Water Sport Season Has Arrived – Here’s Everything You Need
The sea makes a great arena for plenty of exciting water sports. That’s right – you don’t need a large strip of land to get your game on as long as you have a body of water nearby.
Did you know that having the right boat can unlock a world of possibilities for water sports?
Consider our guide below to prepare for the next time you’re at the cottage, beach, or near any large body of water.
What are Water Sports?
‘Water sports’ can refer to any competitive activity that takes place in the water or on its surface. Some water sports take place above the waterline, using tools like floating mats or boats to support the participants. Other games take place in the water, and require players to swim or even dive.
There are plenty of existing water sports, but many enthusiasts prefer to come up with their own game ideas. Can you think of one?
READ MORE: Fishing Boat Must-Haves
Boat Types and How They Can Bring Your Water Sports to Life
Bowriders
Bowriders are one of the most versatile types of boats you’ll find on the water. In most cases, these boats fit at least four people, and have plenty of storage space despite their sleek design.
These boats are perfect for relaxing joy rides, or transporting equipment for leisurely activities. For example, wakeboarders and tubers love bowriders because they can hold their equipment, take them out to the water, and act as a ‘home base’ as they shred through the water.
Deck Boats
As the name suggests, deck boats have a spacious deck. This makes them great for leisurely trips with full crowds, as well as entertainment. That being said, you can use it for more competitive activities, too. The boat’s size gives you the option to transport plenty of equipment, including nets or floating pads.
Personal Watercrafts
The term ‘personal watercraft’ refers to any water vehicle that is meant for one individual rider. The rider typically stands as they control the vehicle. There are plenty of different kinds, like Jet Skis, SeaDoos, and WaveRunners. Personal watercrafts are great for racing, skiing, or water-based challenges.
Pontoon Boats
Pontoon boats are known for their buoyancy. They are held up by pontoons, which are small structures that float with ease. Pontoon boats are typically large and are great for entertainment and leisure. Still, you can bring your fishing gear, skiis, tubes and other supplies thanks to the space that the pontoon boat provides. While pontoon boats are typically known for moving at slower speeds, depending on the boat and size of the motor, you may be able to get it fast enough to pull tubers and water skiers.
Wake Boats
As the name suggests, wake boats are used almost exclusively for wakeboarding. A ‘wake’ is the V-shaped pattern that a boat leaves behind as it pushes forward through the water. Wakeboards take advantage of these sleek waves, jumping and performing aerial tricks over them.
READ MORE: How to Navigate a Boat
Water Sport Safety Tips
In order to enjoy water sports to the fullest possibility, you’ll want to put safety first. With deep water, moving vehicles, and other hazards, there’s plenty to keep an eye out for. Consider these safety tips.
Have the Right Safety Gear
Even the most experienced swimmer would benefit from bringing along a life jacket. It helps to have someone around who has lifeguard experience and is trained to perform CPR, just in case.
Make Sure You Aren’t Invading Others’ Space
Be aware of the people and objects around you. You may have found what you think is the perfect strip of water, but if other swimmers or drivers are floating by, you may face a collision. Think of those around you as you play.
In The Driver’s Seat? Be Careful
If you’re driving a boat, it’s your responsibility to make smart decisions that prioritize the safety of riders and others in the water. Maintain a safe distance from the nearby land, and drive at a reasonable speed and in a predictable path.
Follow Your Gear’s Instructions
Boating gear usually comes with safety recommendations. This could describe what environments are appropriate for use, how many people can use a piece of gear, or how something should be used.
Create a Safety Plan
Accidents, big and small, are bound to happen. These incidents can be overwhelming, and it’s not always obvious what to do when they occur. That’s why it’s important to come up with a plan and practice putting it into motion. Each person should have some idea of what to do or where to go to make things run smoothly if a boat sinks or flips over, or if someone faces a health emergency while on the water.
READ MORE: Safety Tips for Pontoon Boats
There’s nothing quite like tubing, racing, or playing water polo in a large body of water. By getting the right boat and equipment, you’ll have the best summer of your life.
At Dunfords of Havelock, we have a ton of boats and vehicles ready to meet your water sport-related needs. Check out our full selection of marine and powersport vehicles here.