The ultimate guide to choosing your first powerboat

Maybe you’ve just passed your boating test – congratulations! Now you’re ready to buy your first boat. Before setting out to acquire your first powerboat, here’s a look at the different criteria you need to take into account when making your choice.

We’ll look at the type of boat you’ll need to match your activities. We’ll also take into account budget and size, whether you’re buying new or used, and other selection criteria. We’ll even venture into presenting a range of powerboats suitable for beginners.

What kind of boating will you be doing?

To determine which type of boat is right for you, you first need to know what you’ll be using it for.

There are many different pursuits you can engage in at sea. The ideal boat for you may vary according to the activity you wish to practice:

• Water sports such as wakeboarding or water skiing require a boat that’s not too big but powerful. Maneuverability is also desirable for this type of activity.
• For fishing, you’ll need a sturdy, stable boat to get you through currents. A console or cabin will protect you from the elements and give you better visibility. Mounting your gear will, of course, be essential.
• A RIB is ideal for scuba diving. Its lower topsides will make it easier to get in and out of the water.
• RIBs are also ideal for day trips. They are fast, comfortable and versatile, and offer plenty of space.
• If you’re thinking of cruising for several days, you’ll need a bigger boat with more room and comfort equipment. You will feel more at ease aboard a boat outfitted with a cabin and bunks. And don’t forget that food and water also take up space.

Finally, if you’re more into sailing, we’ve also prepared the perfect guide for you.

What kind of powerboat is best for you?

You’ve identified the kind of activity you’re interested in buying a powerboat for. Good. Now it’s time to look at the different types of powerboats. A first choice will be whether to go for a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) or for a more traditional hard hull. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.

Inflatable boats have good stability and their tubes protect from spray and waves. You may also note that for a given size, a RIB will be able to accommodate more people. So it may be more suitable for outings with family or friends.

In a hard boat, you’ll be better protected. Among hard-hulled boats, you’ll find the very popular open hulls. These are open-deck, deep-hulled boats with fairly high freeboards and a steering console. If safety is one of your priorities, a hard hull may be a good fit.

Bowriders can also be interesting starter powerboats. These boats range in size from 5 to 13 meters and feature two passenger areas. One is behind the windshielded steering position, and the other at the bow. This type of boat is ideal for virtually all the activities mentioned above. They’re stable, maneuverable and powerful, and behind the windshield you’ll be protected from the waves.

Flybridges feature an open cockpit upstairs, above a cabin or protected helm station. This is particularly popular with fishermen, as it enables them to locate the best fishing spots. If you’re looking for more space to enjoy the sun and sea views, a flybridge is just what you’re looking for.

Budget and boat size

Boat prices rise faster than boat size. So the larger the boat you choose, the bigger your budget will need to be per foot or meter. This applies for the initial purchase, of course. But there are other costs involved in owning a boat. So keep in mind this cost increase will also apply to maintenance costs, insurance premium and berthing or mooring fees.

It can also be more difficult to find a berth for a larger boat. For example, finding a berth afloat for a 115 footer should be fairly easy, and even more so on dry land. Double the size and finding a spot for your motorboat becomes a different story. Also, if you’re planning to trailer your boat, remember that it must comply with the dimensions allowed on the road.

Buying your powerboat new or used?

When buying your first powerboat, you will also need to decide whether to buy new or used. Buying a new boat has several benefits. Firstly, you’ll have more peace of mind, as any construction defects or running-in problems will be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. What’s more, dealerships can sometimes make it easier for you to secure a berth when you buy your new powerboat. This is a considerable advantage.

You can also turn to the second-hand market. This can be more attractive budget-wise. In doing so, you’re contributing to the “circular economy”. On the other hand, as a beginner, you may not be able to identify any maintenance faults or repairs that may need to be carried out. If the cost of repairs or refurbishment is high, you need to take this into account before agreeing on a purchase price. In such cases, it’s a good idea to enlist the help of a professional. Call in a marine surveyor, a broker or even a boat negotiator, for example, to clarify the boat’s actual condition.

Of course, if the seller is able to provide evidence of serious and regular maintenance, you’ll have more confidence. A maintenance log such as Ready4Sea can vouch for servicing carried out every time the boat is winterized or relaunched, for example. What’s more, you can then take over the maintenance log from the boat you’re buying, and the app will guide you through the maintenance of your new boat. Finally, your maintenance history will be a token of good care when the time comes to resell your boat.

Finally, a third option is now emerging, halfway between new and used: refurbished. After a boat has lived a first life, you will be giving it a second life. Not only is this an eco-friendly solution, it’s also an attractive one, as the refitting yard generally offers a warranty period. Ask the refurbisher to set up your boat in Ready4Sea, so you can start off on the right foot!

Other powerboat selection criteria

There are a few other criteria to consider when buying your first powerboat:

• Maneuverability and stability: A boat that’s easy to handle and stable on the water is ideal for beginners.
• Comfort: Comfort features can vary according to your preferences and budget. For example, you can prefer a simple boat with no amenities, or one fitted with a cabin, galley and shower room.
• Engine power: The output of your engine has a major influence on the price of insurance, and therefore on your annual budget. Motorization is therefore an important criterion to take into account when buying your boat – both nautically and financially.
• Ecology: If you want to avoid fossil fuels, consider buying a boat with an electric motor rather than a combustion engine.

Some powerboats for beginners

Now you know what to look for when choosing your boat, you’re in a better position to make your choice. Of course, it’s extremely difficult to make specific recommendations, given the sheer number of different models and the variety of uses.

However, we’d like to take the liberty of offering you a selection – inevitably incomplete and arbitrary – of boats recommended for beginners:

Quicksilver Activ 455 Open: A practical and affordable open hull boat

The Quicksilver Activ 455 Open is a compact and versatile powerboat, perfect for beginners and first-time buyers. Its modest size makes it easy to handle and tow, while the open layout provides ample space for up to five passengers. Equipped with a outboard engine, typically ranging from 40 to 60 HP, this boat offers a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The Activ 455 Open is ideal for day trips, fishing, or simply cruising along the coast.

Bayliner E5: A stable and family-friendly bowrider

The Bayliner Element E5 is designed with stability and ease of use in mind, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Its unique M-Hull design ensures a smooth and stable ride, while the spacious interior can comfortably accommodate up to six passengers. Powered by a outboard engine, usually between 60 and 90 HP, the E5 offers ample power for various water activities. This model is perfect for family outings, water sports, or leisurely cruises.

Jeanneau Merry Fisher 605: A comfortable and easy-to-handle cabin cruiser

The Jeanneau Merry Fisher 605 is a comfortable and easy-to-handle powerboat, suitable for beginners and families alike. Its clever design offers a surprising amount of interior space, including a cabin for overnight stays. With an outboard engine ranging from 75 to 115 HP, this model provides a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The Merry Fisher 605 is ideal for coastal cruising, fishing, or relaxing anchorage.

Sea Ray SPX 190: A fun and versatile bowrider for water adventures

The Sea Ray SPX 190 is designed with simplicity and fun in mind, making it a great choice for first-time buyers. Its spacious and comfortable interior can accommodate up to nine passengers, while the sleek design ensures a smooth and stable ride. Powered by an outboard engine, typically between 115 and 150 HP, the SPX 190 offers ample power for water sports and cruising. This model is perfect for family outings, water skiing, or leisurely cruises.

Stingray 190 LX: A smooth-riding and spacious deck boat

The Stingray 190 LX is known for its stability and smooth ride, making it an excellent choice for beginners and families. Its spacious interior offers plenty of room for up to eight passengers, while the sleek design ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the water. Equipped with a outboard engine, usually between 90 and 150 HP, the 190 LX provides ample power for various water activities. This model is ideal for family outings, water sports, or coastal cruising.

The choice is yours

In short, choosing your first powerboat may seem complex. But a few criteria will help you make an informed decision. In particular, we’ve mentioned your intended use, the type of boat, your budget, the size, and whether you want a new or used boat. You’ll always remember your first boat, so choosing the right one is very important. We hope it will suit you perfectly, and give you unforgettable moments. Happy boating!