Buying a boat can mean lots of summertime fun and a great chance to entertain family and friends on the water. There are many styles and sizes of boats available, which means you're sure to find something you love and that suits you in particular; however, this can also make boat shopping a little overwhelming! To help you narrow down your list of potential choices, note a few considerations you might keep in mind when you're ready to start browsing the classified ads or visit a nearby dealer that offers boats for sale.

Speed

If you want a boat for racing up and down the waters, you want to think about more than just the engine or motor. The more horsepower in the motor or engine, the higher the speeds you'll obtain, but the shape of the boat will also affect your ability to achieve those faster speeds. The wider and flatter the hull, or body of the boat, the more drag and resistance the boat will have over the water. In turn, the less speed you'll be able to achieve, no matter the size and power of the engine or motor.

Look for a pointed and sharp bow, or front end of the boat, that will cut through the water easily. This pointed middle of the bow should also run down the entire underside of the boat so that it has less drag and can easily slice through the water.

Fishing

If you want a boat for fishing, you may not think the shape of the hull is important, but consider where you like to fish. Many small lakes and streams have narrow inlets and areas of reeds and other vegetation where fish can be found; a pointed bow will allow you to easily navigate those smaller bodies of water and steer in and out of reedy areas easily.

However, a flatter bottom of the boat will keep it steadier when you stand up to cast, reel in the fish or lean over to use your net. Opt for a fishing boat in particular if you love to fish, as these small details about its shape can make it easier to manage when on the waters.

Fibreglass versus aluminium

Both fibreglass and aluminium have their advantages and disadvantages, but aluminium boats are very lightweight and durable, and aluminium is also resistant to rust and corrosion. Aluminium may also be a poorer host to algae and barnacles, and it may not show water marks as much as fibreglass, so it may require less maintenance over time.