These family boats are the most popular in the runabout/sportboat category and are equipped with extra seats and forward access to the bow, a convenient spot to relax and sun.

Recreational by nature, cabin cruisers are generally equipped with cooking, sleeping and bathroom facilities and are ideal for those who want to feel the sun above and the ocean below.

Large boats equipped with powerful single or twin engines, these craft are ideal for ocean cruising, navigating large rivers or the Great Lakes, as well as entertaining at the dock, and can stay on the water for days.

These boats may be the ultimate family fishing boats and are most popular in coastal waters, bays and the lakes where anglers pursue their next catch. They are equipped with rod holders and livewells while providing lots of space for maneuvering and casting.

Fast, wet and wild — inboard propulsion delivers the power and speed fans of watersports such as skiing and wakeboarding need.

Deck boats have a wide deck to carry 8 to 12 or more passengers (like pontoons) but look and perform more like runabouts. They are powerful, too, making them excellent boats for skiing, tubing and wakeboarding.

Pontoon boats give families with younger boaters a secure place to enjoy the ride or toddle about when at anchor, thanks to wide decks and "play pen-like" side rails and gates. When equipped with larger engines they can be as quick as runabouts.

Featuring two or three hulls, rather than the more common single hull, multi-hull powerboats include designs for hardcore freshwater and saltwater fishing, as well as recreational and cruising, complete with expected amenities.

Like sport boats, they offer comfortable seating and sunning areas, plus a speedy and exciting ride. They are distinguished from runabouts by their propulsion system, which is enclosed inside the hull.

Dinghies are small, easy-to-transport craft, most often used as companion boats for larger vessels.