Learn the difference between boat models and classifications. Explore common technical terms. Ask essential questions when purchasing from a dealership. Ready to expand your knowledge?
Helpful terms when comparing boat models and determining your needs.
What is a Deck Boat and How Did it Get its Name?
A deck is the horizontal surface of a boat on which the crew or passengers sit or stand. Deck boats usually have a wide bow for more deck space and maximum seating.
This style of boat is great if you’re new to boating or planning to boat with family or friends. Deck boats are famously easy to handle and deliver excellent capacity and comfort for entertaining a crew.
Open Layout Makes Entertaining Easy
Deck boats are ideal if you like to entertain, thanks to open cockpit layouts and maximized space for storage and seating. Some models can accommodate up to 12 people on board.
Cockpit Configuration
You might also notice that a deck boat’s seating configuration positions passengers along the port and starboard sides facing the centre, rather than facing forward. This is perfect if you’re envisioning all-day boat parties – think of it like your floating living room!
What is a Bowrider and Why is it Called That?
Bowriders, sometimes called runabouts, are named for their distinctive forward seating and for the way the front seems to rise above the water’s surface.
V-shaped hull for easy handling.
If you look down the hull of a bowrider, you notice it has a blade-like profile. The purpose of this is simple physics: this shape will “cut through” the water’s surface with less resistance. Why does that matter? Think about it—if you like to tow friends on a tube or even just like the feeling of wind whipping through your hair while cruising, the deep-V shape is going to be able to manoeuvre with less effort than a deck boat or pontoon, both of which are designed to displace water across a broader area.
Propulsion options for wherever you cruise
Bayliner’s VR Series bowriders employ the V-hull design outlined above, which makes them our preferred choice for boaters who want to pursue cruising and tow sports more than anything else. Beyond their hull features, VR Series models offer both outboard and inboard propulsion options to be suitable for either saltwater or freshwater cruising.
Bowrider boats meet the need for speed
Bowriders have a distinct “rise” when underway that creates a sensation of flying over the water. This experience makes them a hit with kids and adults alike, so be ready to take turns riding up front.
Want to extend your time on the water? The overnight Bayliner models may be your answer.
From the VR series offering an extra bunk for all the family, right up to the Ciera 8 offering a huge double berth bow and separate aft berth with galley and head compartment.
If you’re wanting to extend your trips further and have the amenities of home, then an overnight boat is your perfect choice.
STILL NOT SURE?
Contact our sales team to talk through the available models.
Your local office:
Chertsey 01932 57111
Eastbourne 01323 470066
Poole 01202 679421
Southampton 01489 576888