From your water activities to your cruising specialties, what should you consider when buying your first family boat?

There’s no feeling quite as wonderful as a day out on the water, the waves sparkling off the boat and the sun on your face. From tubing and fishing to floating and enjoying company, spending time out on the boat is a fantastic way to spend a warm day at any time of year.

Plus, spending time with family seems even sweeter when you’re on a boat, which is why we understand how fun it is to have your own. 

However, being a first-time boat buyer raises a lot of questions. Whether you’re unsure about the kind of boat you need or you’re simply unsure of the process to buy one, our first-time buyer’s guide is a great resource for you as you set out on your journey to buying a boat for the first time for your family.

A family boating after buying a boat for the first time.

Step One: Know What You’re Looking For

The first step to buying a family boat is knowing what you’re looking for, so there are several things to consider. First off, answer these questions along with your family:

  1. How many people does the boat need to fit?
  2. Is this boat just for cruising, or are you also wanting to jet ski, tube, and practice other watersports?
  3. Where will you be using the boat? (river, lake, etc).
  4. Do you want to dock the boat or tow and launch it?

Once you’ve determined what kinds of things you’ll do on your boat, you can narrow down the category of boat you’re buying. From speed boats to fishing boats, there are tons of options on the market. This way, you’ll go into the process of knowing what category of boat you want to buy.

Father and son enjoying a boat ride after buying a boat for the first time.

BOATsmart!’s Top Choices for Great Family Boats

Where should you start your search for a great family boat? Here are a few of our top choices.

  • Cabin cruisers: If you’re looking for a boat that comfortably fits your family to sleep in and enjoy themselves, a cabin cruiser is a great choice! They’re bigger than the usual boat — and can be pricey — but they’re a great investment if it’s something you will use. 
  • Bowriders: You can go large or small with bowriders, which are fun and great for families looking to enjoy life out on the water. They’re customizable and buildable depending on what you’re looking for, and they’re versatile for a number of uses. 
  • Sailboats: Everyone loves a classic sailboat, and sailboats are a great pick for a family boat if teamwork is your favorite part of being out on the water. These boats encourage family members to all participate in the boating process, which is a great learning opportunity as well as a bonding activity.
  • Pontoon boats: Pontoon boats are definitely one of the best picks for families who like to relax on the water, whether you’re looking for a laid-back experience or an engine with a little more punch. They can be smaller or on the bigger side, and they hold both the capability to lay back and the capability to have fun. 
  • Walkarounds: Walkaround boats are good picks for those families who want the capability to move around freely and occasionally pull overnighters on the boats while also having a boat built for fun. With an enclosed section, they’re a versatile option for families, friends, and those with children.
  • Jet boats: Jet boats are an option for families that like to have fun with watersports and fishing on the water. Jet boats don’t have propellers; instead, they move the boat with a jet of water, which also increases safety. 
  • Fish-and-ski boats: If you’re looking for a boat that you can take out on family fishing expeditions as well as fun trips for waterskiing and other watersports, a fish-and-ski boat is your absolute best option. They offer both opportunities for your family, making them a good pick for the ultimate fun family boat. 

As you can see, there are plenty of options to choose from when buying a boat for the first time — but don’t get overwhelmed by the options. Just have fun and move on to Step 2.

Step Two: Browse, Browse, Browse

Once you’ve decided on the type of boat that fits your lifestyle, it’s time to start looking. There are many benefits to buying a used boat (lower price, can be traded in later, lower commitment) and benefits to buying a new boat (it’s only yours, it hasn’t had issues, you’re starting from zero). Whether you want to buy used or new, start combing sites and local dealers for the best deal on a boat you like. Just like when buying a car, do your research.

Compare photos, look for details in listings, and keep an eye on things you may need to replace later. 

Then, go see the boat in person to get a feel for it. Just like you wouldn’t buy a car sight unseen, you shouldn’t buy a boat either. Inspect the boat from all sides, take it for a test ride, and consider having an expert take a look as well. Boats are significant purchases, so make sure you’re happy.

We’d also recommend taking the family along for the ride — it’s a family boat, after all!

Water spray on a boat cruising the lake.

Step Three: The Nitty-Gritty of Buying a Boat for the First Time

After you’ve found a boat that you like, it’s finally time to buy it! Just make sure you pay attention to the details so you’re not ending up with any bad surprises.

First, purchase only from a reputable dealer or private seller who can provide proof of ownership and a title. You’ll want to verify that there are no liens on the boat, and you’ll want to make sure you have every piece of paperwork that you’ll need to change over the title. Laws and guidelines vary depending on state and province, but you’ll need to alert the authorities responsible for a change in ownership for your new boat. 

Before taking the boat out on the water, verify that you and any family members planning to operate the boat are trained and licensed to do so.

Requirements to operate a boat vary depending on where you are, but BOATsmart! will be your partner in boating safety education with courses and certifications for everyone involved. 

Smiling women and children wearing life jackets on a boat, buy a boat concept.

Step Four: Have Fun!

You’ve done it! You’re officially a first-time boat owner, and it’ll be one of the best things that’s happened to you.

After buying a boat for the first time, go out on the water, have fun, and stay safe. At BOATsmart!, we’re here to ensure that you’re properly licensed and to answer any questions you have about life on the water with your first family boat.

If you’re buying a boat in Canada, take our Canada-approved course and get your license. For boating with your family in the U.S., choose the course for your state and start learning.

Then, happy boating!

Originally published August 4, 2020. Content most recently reviewed and updated August 9, 2024.

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