Boat Brands by Boat Type

This page groups boat manufacturers by the type of boat they are mainly known for, so you can move from a brand name to the guide that explains how that kind of boat fits Florida water. Use it as a starting point for research, then compare specific models, dealers and condition.

How to use this list

Pick the boat type that matches how you plan to boat, open its guide, and then look at the brands in that group. Two boats of the same type can differ a lot in hull design, saltwater readiness, warranty and service support. If you are buying new, see Buying From a Dealer. If you are buying used, the checks in Buying a Used Boat matter more than the name on the hull.

Fishing boats

Bass boats

Low-profile boats built for freshwater lakes and rivers. See Bass Boats.

Aluminum fishing boats

Lightweight, durable hulls common on lakes, rivers and protected water. See Aluminum Fishing Boats.

Bay boats and flats boats

Shallow-draft boats for Florida bays, flats and nearshore water. See Bay Boats and Flats Boats.

Center consoles

Open, walk-around fishing layouts used from inshore to offshore. See Center Consoles.

Walkarounds

Fishing boats with a small cabin and a walkway around it for offshore days. See Walkarounds.

All-purpose fishing boats and skiffs

Simple, versatile hulls for inshore fishing and utility use. See All-Purpose Fishing Boats.

Fish-and-ski boats

One hull for fishing in the morning and towing in the afternoon. See Fish-and-Ski Boats.

Family and recreational boats

Pontoon boats

Stable, roomy platforms for lakes, rivers and calm bays. See Pontoon Boats.

Deck boats

Wide bows and open seating for groups on calm bays and lakes. See Deck Boats.

Bowriders

Day boats with forward seating for cruising and watersports. See Bowriders.

Ski boats and wake boats

Inboard towboats built for waterskiing, wakeboarding and wakesurfing. See Ski Boats and Wake Boats.

Jet boats

Boats driven by water jets, often used in shallow or fast-moving water. See Jet Boats.

Personal watercraft

Sit-down watercraft such as Jet Skis, WaveRunners and Sea-Doos. See Personal Watercraft.

High-performance boats

Go-fast V-hulls and catamarans built for speed. See High-Performance Boats.

Multi-hull power boats

Power catamarans with a stable ride in Florida chop. See Multi-Hull Power Boats.

Cruising boats

Cabin cruisers and pocket tugs

Boats with enclosed cabins for overnight trips and coastal cruising. See Cabin Cruisers.

Motor yachts and power cruisers

Larger cruisers and yachts for extended coastal trips. See Motor Yachts and Power Cruisers.

Sportfishing yachts

Convertibles and express boats built for offshore fishing. See Sportfishing Yachts.

Trawlers

Efficient displacement cruisers for long-range trips. See Trawlers.

Sailboats

Monohull and cruising sailboats. See Sailboats.

Inflatables and dinghies

Inflatable boats and tenders for getting ashore. See Inflatable Boats and Dinghies.

Before you buy

Once you have a short list, compare real-world costs as well as features. Boat Ownership Cost covers storage, insurance and maintenance in Florida, and the Boat Loan Calculator lets you estimate how price and down payment affect a payment if you plan to finance. All boat types are listed in Boat Types.

Frequently asked questions

Does Florida Boating Info recommend any of these brands?

No. Brands are listed to help you research by boat type. The list is not a ranking or an endorsement, and Florida Boating Info has no affiliation with any manufacturer.

Why do some brands appear under more than one boat type?

Many manufacturers build more than one kind of boat. Brands are grouped by the types they are best known for, so a builder can appear in more than one group. Check the builder's own lineup for everything it offers.

How do I compare brands for Florida boating?

Start with the boat type that fits where you will boat, then compare specific models on hull design, saltwater readiness, warranty and dealer service near you. A sea trial and, for used boats, a marine survey help more than brand reputation alone.

Official sources

1. Everglades Boats (opens in a new tab)
2. Contender Boats (opens in a new tab)
3. MasterCraft (opens in a new tab)
4. Sea Ray — Sport Boats and Bowriders (opens in a new tab)
5. Chaparral Boats (opens in a new tab)
6. Regal Boats (opens in a new tab)
7. Four Winns (opens in a new tab)