Decide the main activity that you will use the boat for. Racing, sailing, fishing or cruising are the main events. There are many different types of boats to use for different types of racing. The different races involve going around buoys or obstacles, distance or speed racing. A speed boat is ideal for obstacles and speed, while a sail boat is a good choice for long distances.

A speed boat is not as complicated to operate. It is almost like driving a car. A sailboat, on the other hand, will require some advanced knowledge. The speed boat is ideal for water activities like water skiing and towing rafts, while the sailboat is good for cruising and entertaining. Both types can have a deck for sunning, it will just depend on the model of the boat.

When it comes to the sailboat category there are many different styles to choose from. Dinghies are very small for use off of the beach or in the harbor. There is the day sailor which is good for short trips on small lakes or calm waters. The catamaran or multihull will have two or three sails which makes it a good choice for cruising, anchoring and high-speed ocean racing. There is the engine-powered cruising sailboat which is good for entertaining, overnight and extended trips.