When you’re getting into boating, one of the best ways to figure out if it’s for you is to rent a boat for a few hours on Boatsetter or a similar service. In boating, size really does matter, the bigger the boat, the more stable and comfortable it will be, especially in rougher water. But going big right away isn’t always the smartest move for a beginner.
Remember the 80/20 Rule
Always keep the 80/20 rule in mind. What are you going to be doing on the water 80% of the time? That’s the kind of boat you should get. Don’t get lured into buying a multi-cabin cruiser or a brand-new 35-foot center console unless that really fits your lifestyle.
For example, I have a family of three, including a teenage daughter who loves sunbathing and doing water sports with her friends. So for us, our main activity is family boating. Any boat we consider has to support that first.
How Many People Will You Have On Board?
The number of people you regularly bring on board makes a big difference in what boat size works. If it’s just you most of the time, a smaller boat is fine. But if you’re usually boating with three or more people, things get tighter.
Take the Key West 203 FS, awesome for one or two people. It’s great for quick fishing trips, stable, and easy to handle. But when you add a third or fourth person, you start noticing the limits. Good seats fill up fast, movement causes more rocking, and the deck starts to feel a little cramped.
A Quick Guide to Boat Lengths
- Under 16 feet – Best for solo boating or one passenger. Think small aluminum fishing boats or compact skiffs. Great for lakes, rivers, and protected waters, but not ideal for groups or rougher conditions.
- 16 to 23 feet – The sweet spot for most beginners. Easy to trailer and launch, with enough space and comfort for family outings, water sports, and nearshore trips. Bowriders, center consoles, and deck boats in this range are versatile and user-friendly.
- 23 feet and up – These are bigger water boats. They can handle rougher conditions and come with more features—like built-in heads, more storage, and often dual engines. Great for offshore fishing, bigger families, or overnight trips. But they’re more expensive and have a steeper learning curve.
Don’t Break the Bank
It’s extremely rare to nail your perfect boat on the first try, especially if you’re new. Like any hobby, your preferences will evolve with experience. That’s why I highly recommend renting first, exploring used boats if you’re buying, or joining a boat club to get your feet wet.
Final Thought: Try Before You Buy
Just like people who buy shiny new RVs only to let them sit in storage, the same thing can happen with boats. But boating is a ton of fun, especially here in Northeast Florida. With Freedom Boat Club, for example, you can explore the St. Johns River, inshore spots, and even head offshore.
If you live in Florida and haven’t gotten out on the water yet, I definitely recommend giving it a try. There’s a lot of freedom and adventure waiting out there.