Deck boats and bowrider boats have many similarities. Both are small, motorized watercraft that offer a lot of passenger room. However, there are also many important differences that set the two types apart, which you need to consider when shopping for a vessel. If you’re interested in learning more about deck boats, bowrider boats, and the differences between them, check out this guide from the experts at 918 Boats.
The Shape of the Hull
One of the first and most obvious points of contrast between deck boats and bowriders is the hull shape. Deck boats tend to have wide, flat-bottomed hulls with low-rise bows. This helps give them greater stability in choppy waters. Many deck boats also have catamaran style hulls, which helps create space on the deck for people and cargo. Bowrider boats, on the other hand, usually have v-shaped hulls for better control at high speeds and while taking turns.
Seating Arrangement
Your typical deck boat will be between 18’ and 33’ in length, usually with a U-shaped seating arrangement. Deck boats are designed with an open floor plan that doesn’t separate the bow from the stern, which results in more room for your passenger. Bowriders tend to be between 17’ and 30’ in length. As the name implies, extra seating is found in the vessel’s bow, usually secured by railings.
Capacity
Another key difference between deck boats and bowrider boats is the amount of available storage space. Deck boats tend to have larger layouts, with some models having enough seating space for over a dozen people, along with all the gear they need. Bowriders are a bit more compact. If you plan to boat with a group of less than ten, a bowrider should have all the space you need.
Watersport Activities
For experienced watersports enthusiasts, bowriders are the vessel of choice. They’re fast yet offer great stability in choppy waters. However, if you’re newer to the watersports scene, a deck boat might be the better option for you. That’s because deck boats tend to be easier for newcomers to control, resulting in a safer overall ride.
Shop our inventory of deck boats at 918 Boats. Our dealership in Sperry, Oklahoma offers convenient access to communities like Tulsa and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. We also offer financing, parts ordering, servicing, and a Pro Shop.
