How to choose a good and versatile little boat for weekend excursions. Any tips or suggestions?

[Benjamin Schroer]

In the market for a versatile little boat for weekend and evening excursions. Im new to the area and was wondering if any locals could give me any tips or suggestions about what to consider when choosing the right boat for this area.

When visiting the area a little while back, a friend took us on an excursion through the bay and the bayou, down the inter coastal, and out to shell island... that is the type of thing I would like to use it for. Also, probably some river trips to springs, etc.. probably some fishing, but that won’t be the main purpose. Would want it to hold 4-6 passengers.. doesn’t need to be big.

My friend’s boat was a little center console that I think was similar to a Boston Whaler?

Never owned a boat before... what should I be considering when choosing the right boat for this area?

 

[Tyler T]

Center consoles are very popular and would be a good choice, but geared more to fishing. You might prefer a deck boat which is more versatile and people friendly. Consider how fast you want to go and how shallow you want to handle. A 21 or 23 foot deck boat is a good all purpose boat that can handle skiing, fishing, cruising, relaxing ... and can be launched easily. You might rent from Bayytowne Marina or over in Destin to try out a few different types and sizes.

 

[SeaFern]

Any boat your wife or GF approves of, is the right boat!

 

[Bob Wells]

Try the Boat Clubs.

 

[Benjamin Schroer]

Like I say, I’m pretty new around here, so pardon my ignorance...
What are the boat clubs?
Are you saying to try looking there to find a boat?
Or are you saying to try looking there for advice?
Or both? Lol

 

[Bob Wells]

Like I say, I’m pretty new around here, so pardon my ignorance...
What are the boat clubs?
Are you saying to try looking there to find a boat?
Or are you saying to try looking there for advice?
Or both? Lol

There are boat clubs in Destin and Panama City. I do not belong to one. Depending on the price point you could have options as to days of the week and types of boats. They handle the maintenance and cleaning and you pay a consistent price. Just an option as you don't sound like you know exactly what you are looking for.

 

[Benjamin Schroer]

Ok. Thanks Bob Wells. Worth looking into.

 

[Benjamin Schroer]

Any boat your wife or GF approves of, is the right boat!

Well that’s my first problem right there.. lol

 

[Benjamin Schroer]

Center consoles are very popular and would be a good choice, but geared more to fishing. You might prefer a deck boat which is more versatile and people friendly. Consider how fast you want to go and how shallow you want to handle. A 21 or 23 foot deck boat is a good all purpose boat that can handle skiing, fishing, cruising, relaxing ... and can be launched easily. You might rent from Bayytowne Marina or over in Destin to try out a few different types and sizes.

Thanks Tyler. Good info.

 

[justhavinfun]

And remember that BOAT stands for "Break Out Another Thousand!!